Rebecca Harper Photography

Lisa & Malik ~ January 28, 2012

2012-01-29T17:58:00.000-08:00

LISA & MALIK

Lisa and Malik were married on Saturday. The ceremony took place up in the Berkeley Hills overlooking the bay. The day was wonderful and Lisa looked beautiful.

Cragmont Park

BERKELEY, CALIFORNIA

JANUARY 28, 2012

TO HAVE AND TO HOLD

FROM THIS DAY FORWARD

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

An evening in San Francisco

12 Gallagher Lane

DINNER RECEPTION

A special day shared with family & friends

www.rebeccaharperphotography.com

A few photos of my kids

2011-11-23T09:54:00.001-08:00

That time of year again to take family pictures. This year Savana and CT surely showed their personality. Tyce was also included in the bunch, so that added a lot more fun, but no pictures of him posted yet.

Every picture CT took included a funny face... the boy kills me !

Ok.. this one looks sweet, but the takes before and after show the silly laughing that took place.

Glad to get this one.

HAPPY THANKSGIVING

Holiday Card Designs ~San Francisco/Bay Area Photographer~

2011-11-19T18:12:00.001-08:00

Comment on this post to be entered into raffle to win a free Holiday Card Design.

iheartfaces {white} ~ San Francisco/Bay Area Photography

2011-08-29T10:23:00.000-07:00

This weeks challenge at i heart faces..... WHITE...

Katherine's First Birthday & Pavlina Family Photo ~ Combo Session ~ SNEAK PEEK {San Francisco/Bay Area Photographer}

2011-08-21T19:05:00.000-07:00

This little one just turned one year old and it has been a joy capturing her wonderful personality.

Mommy and Daddy were included in this session, but sweet Katherine remained the center of attention.

Happy Birthday Katherine Debra Pavlina!

Haro Family Sneak Peek ~ San Francisco/Bay Area Photographer

2011-08-17T09:18:00.000-07:00

Here are a few images from the Haro Family Session.

Thanks for a great afternoon!!!!

I heart faces - Eyes~ San Francisco/Bay Area Photographer

2011-08-14T10:34:00.000-07:00

"Eyes" challenge at I heart faces could not be more perfect for my son. He was blessed with his daddy's blue eyes and mommy's dark brown hair and eyelashes. Instead of a perfectly posed photo (which is impossible to get with a four year old), I asked him to make a funny face.

I HEART FACES: Friendship ~ San Francisco/Bay Area Photographer

2011-08-08T10:14:00.000-07:00

This week's theme at I heart faces is friendship. I enjoyed shooting these girls.

They all came back into town for a girls get together and I got some great shots.

The Beach ~ San Francisco/Bay Area Photographer

2011-08-03T18:59:00.000-07:00

Vacation in San Diego.

Sun Sand & Family Fun

I Heart Faces: Props ~ San Francisco/Bay Area Photographer

2011-07-18T14:48:00.000-07:00

Give a kid a prop and the possibilities are endless.

Prop Challenge at i heart faces.... could not help but catch CT playing with the soccer balls outside today.

Black & White Photography- San Francisco/Bay Area Photographer

2011-07-10T18:33:00.000-07:00

As long as I have had a love for photography, I have had a love for Black and White Images. In my first photography class, everything was developed in Black and White.. yup that was back in the old dark room developing days. This was difficult, but it made me appreciate the richness of Black and White Images.

I use Lightroom to develop my images and enjoy the creative opportunities it has.

I HEART FACES: WIND~ Bay Area Photographer

2011-04-17T15:44:00.000-07:00

WIND is the theme for this week at I heart faces and just happen to capture some senior portraits where the wind was a big challenge, but got some great expressions.

I adore this expression on Mariah's face.

w w w. r e b e c c a h a r p e r p h o t o g r a p h y . c o m

I HEART FACES: SUNBURST ~ BAY AREA PHOTOGRAPHER

2011-03-15T09:23:00.000-07:00

My favorite category of all.. Sunburst!!! Here is a shot of a sunburst I thought was not going to work, but when I took a second look at it... I loved it!

IHEARTFACES:

2011-02-22T09:56:00.000-08:00

Camera Phone Contest at I heart faces. This photo taken with my iphone using the Hipstamatic App.

IHEARTFACES: hearts

2011-02-08T13:16:00.000-08:00

This week's challenge at I Heart Faces is naturally "Hearts" especially with Valentine's Day around the corner. I had no time or a session scheduled to attempt this challenge....so went looking through my archives and found this adorable image of Clair holding hands with her parents. Did you see the heart in her sweater? Thought is would work perfectly for this challenge!!!

XOXO- Beckie

I HEART FACES: Winter Wonderland

2011-01-18T19:13:00.000-08:00

Winter Wonderland themed photo challenge at I Heart Faces. I just cold not resist this photo of Savana eating the snow off her glove and for some reason I caught the glow off the snow that reflected off the lens. The soft blur around the edges is not an added effect and I was pretty happy with this photo.

Texture Tip

2011-01-12T19:14:00.000-08:00

+ =

Add your own textures to your photos using photoshop.

Step one: Take a picture of any type of texture, ground, rough surface.

Step two: Choose a picture to put a texture on.

Step three: Open photoshop and layer the texture on top of the picture of choice.

Step four: Move the opacity level around 20-30% on the texture picture

Step five: With the texture layer still active, erase the texture around face and eyes.

Enjoy!

I HEART FACES: Smiles

2011-01-10T19:17:00.000-08:00

This photo was taken during christmas photo session and little Brooklyn gave me the most beautiful smiles. She was open and willing to take photos and the look in her eyes is priceless. I knew this smile would work perfectly for the I heart faces: Smile challenge.

w w w . r e b e c c a h a r p e r p h o t o g r a p h y . c o m

I HEART FACES: Top Faces 2010

2011-01-03T17:59:00.000-08:00

I Heart Faces is a great website for photographers to share ideas and great photos. I spent all afternoon browsing though all the great photos of all the talented photographers.

For this years 2010 faces I choose this couple photo in which I adore the expression on both faces. For a few minutes I asked the boys to play on the side and this mom and dad became newlyweds again. The giggles and moments of laughter were priceless.

w w w . r e b e c c a h a r p e r p h o t o g r a p h y . c o m

2010 Favorites

2010-12-30T20:24:00.000-08:00

Just want to thank everyone for supporting me this year. It has been a great year learning new ideas and capturing special moments. Here are a few favorite photos of the year.

BABIES & BELLIES

CHILDREN & FAMILIES

SENIORS & FRIENDS

WEDDINGS

It's been a great year!!! Can't wait for the new moments in 2011!

HAPPY NEW YEAR

Christmas with the Harpers

2010-12-27T01:24:00.000-08:00

Just wanted to share a few family portraits taken this Christmas.

Photos above taken by Josh Harper

Some shots of the boys...

and a few with the grandkids.

2010-12-20T21:02:00.000-08:00

Ventura family Christmas Session 2010

The sun was bright and the park was rich with color from the recent rain storm.

A few of Adelle

2010-12-06T21:56:00.000-08:00

Nine months and walking...Adelle is such a doll and took all my energy Saturday afternoon. This age is the most fun, you never know what you are going to get and the outcomes can be amazing!

Love every expression she gave me.

It's the most wonderful time of the year....

2010-12-05T20:56:00.000-08:00

I am enjoying all the Christmas portrait sessions. Everyone all dressed up, cute outfits on kids and big, big, big smiles.

The Pavlina family, taken in the Los Altos Hills.... Katherine in the cute Santa outfit.

Entertainment!

2010-10-24T21:06:00.000-07:00

The Entertainment at Wendy and Leland's wedding was great. Just wanted to share a few shots from the wedding

Cierra & Brad

2010-09-08T20:45:00.000-07:00

Headed up to Foresthill for a wedding at the Monte Verde Inn.

Cierra and Brad celebrated their marriage with close family and friends up in the hills by Auburn, CA

Congrats Cierra & Brad

More on Facebook....

2010-08-15T21:36:00.000-07:00

Checkout my Facebook page for more photos of

Dennize & Frankie

Rebecca Harper Photography on Facebook

08.14.2010

2010-08-15T21:23:00.000-07:00

Dennize and Frankie tied the knot in Watsonville on Saturday.

Just sharing a few favorites!

Walking out of the church, sneaking away from the crowd to take portaits in the church.

Limo ride to the beach for a few beautiful shots!

The clouds opened up just in time for the beach shots... absolutely breathtaking.

Delicious food and great company at the reception.

Beautiful couple..... Dennize and Frankie, what a celebration!

r e b e c c a h a r p e r p h o t o g r a p h y

9 2 5 - 5 4 8 - 8 0 2 8

www.rebeccaharperphotography.com

Jacque & Grant

2010-07-27T22:21:00.000-07:00

Capturing the bride getting ready is one of my favorite parts of a wedding. It is like the beginning of a masterpiece. Each little detail is so important.

This is a perfect picture to portray Jacque. The girl is never seen without her iphone.

The details of the beaded accents were beautiful and here is older sister Vicki, lacing her up.

Bridesmaids.....Karissa and Alyssa

All dressed and ready to go. Jacque looked amazing.

Walking up with dad.

Here they are.... Mr and Mrs Godfrey. Congrats Jacque and Grant.

catching up with rosemary and eric

2010-07-17T11:42:00.000-07:00

Rosemary and Eric both attended SJSU and decided to celebrate their first year of marriage with some portraits on campus. Rosemary worked for me will attending school and Eric was a part of the Men's Basketball team. It was great to see them and catch-up.

Rosemary and Eric were so and energetic. They made my job easy.

The sun was just right on the side of Art Building. The contrast of the building was awesome!

So much fun and I feel so blessed that Rosemary and Eric ask me to capture their time together.

Vacation with the Family

2010-07-07T13:04:00.000-07:00

For the Holiday weekend, we headed up to Arnold, CA with the kids and stayed in a beautiful cabin in Blue Springs Lake. It was a nice time away with no cell phone access and very limited internet access.

Stanislaus National Forest is known for it's Calaveras Big Trees and the beautiful Stanislaus River that runs through it.

These trees were beautiful and the fallen trees were an art form.

The kids enjoyed climbing through and exploring these Sequoia Giants.

We spent most of the time at the lake where the kids played in the sand and cooled off in the refreshing lake water.

In the evening we spent our time in the small town of Murphy's to eat dinner and relax.

O'Brien Preview

2010-06-14T14:07:00.000-07:00

On Saturday I headed to the Santa Clara Baseball Stadium to Photograph the O'brien Family. Mark is the baseball coach and Staci thought it would be a great enclosed area where Brooklyn and Tahoe (black lab) could run around.

Mark is trying to get Tahoe to lay down... I absoluetely love the interaction with Staci in Brooklyn in this shot.

Staci is expecting in July is and wanted to capture some family moments before the new little one arrived.

Brooklyn is so adorable and I loved her interaction with the camera as I snapped away.

sneak peek.... Gricelda

2010-06-12T22:17:00.000-07:00

Gricelda brought her nephews and niece out to San Jose State for a family photo session.

The kids brought their skateboards and scooters and I was able to get some fun shots

This is one of my favorites... I love the buildings and walkways at SJSU.

This is my first portrait with twins and absolutely love this shot.

It was so nice to see such a loving connection with their Aunt and Uncle.

Inspiration Needed

2010-05-24T21:25:00.000-07:00

The last couple of weeks, the idea of Christmas has been going through my mind and I can't wait to share my boutique ideas with you for photographic Christmas gifts. Everything from custom made greeting cards to photo memory boxes are going to be available.

Looking for specific inspiration in color and texture and I adore Pantone's color of the year turquoise.

Christmas decorations posted by sensational colors gave my great ideas and was impressed by this collection by Jim Marvin

Ohhhhh.. so excited. Look for boutique gifts for your christmas gifts

Eyes--- so powerful

2010-05-15T22:47:00.000-07:00

I can determine a good photograph by the expression in one's eyes and I ask myself these questions. Does it shine? Does the photograph tell a story when you look into his her eyes? Does emotion reflect in his or her eyes?

Eyes always amaze me and when I am able to capture them with expression, I feel successful.

What surprises me the most is when eyes are magnified in beauty through the use of black & white. or sepia developing.

Mariah's Prom

2010-05-02T16:35:00.000-07:00

Wanted to capture Mariah's (my niece) prom, so I asked to take pictures of her and her date.

She is so beautiful and I new I could catch some great expressions of her.

My Favorite part is the unfamiliar awkwardness that these teenagers have.
I found myself asking them to get closer and closer together many times.

They met up with friends and I got some shots by Discovery Bay.

www.rebeccaharperphotography.com

9 2 5 . 5 4 8 . 8 0 2 7

Mother's Day- May 9th

2010-04-17T20:40:00.000-07:00

Don't forget about mom...
Mother's Day is May 9th and a mother & child session may be something you are looking for.

Surprise mom this year with a Family Photo Session or a special Mother & Child Session.

beckie@rebeccaharperphotography.com

Jillian's Princess Birthday Party

2010-04-14T19:54:00.000-07:00

It was a perfect afternoon for Jillian's 4th Birthday party at Ramona Park in San Ramon.

Princess Belle made a special appearance and treated Jillian and her friends to a fun day.

The children loved the special attention from Princess Belle as she painted the faces of all the children.

Happy Birthday Jillian

Email me to photography your child's next birthday party:

beckie@rebeccaharperphotography.com

The Buendia's

2010-04-07T21:45:00.000-07:00

Finally a session with my sister and her family.

These kids are so adorable and I could not resist the chance to capture their personalities.

Caleb, Megan and Maddi each took a turn expressing themselves.

Caleb and Megan loved the running photo shots.

Maddi was a perfect angel... her eyes shined right into the camera and gave me perfect shots!

2010-04-03T19:08:00.000-07:00

If you every want a black and white photos to come out spectacular, go to your local park that has blue tubes to crawl into. Even on a cloudy or sunny day, the light shines through the blue tubes so nicely. With a little help from your contrast and brightness editor, black and white photos come out awesome.

Ok.. so my kids get their picture taken so much now and days (good practice), Savana actaully suggested this shot, "Mom...take a picture of me climbing up this...."

Today was filled with time for my kids and wanted to share these pics.... although I love to capture great moments of little ones for others, I often forget to share my photos of my children.

The Weisman's

2010-03-27T18:07:00.000-07:00

I had so much fun taking photos of the Weismans.

Luke, is a bundle of joy and excitement.

and emily is so sweet...

15 days old...

2010-03-27T17:36:00.000-07:00

Adelle only 15 days old, was amazing in front of the camera.

My favorites are the photos where she fell into a position so naturally like this one.

It was so enjoyable to capture her "littleness".

Snow Photos

2010-02-24T20:09:00.000-08:00

Visiting the family, I experimented with some portraits in the snow. Working the "extra" light from the reflection in the snow was great. The local community center in Clear Creek was painted in a deep maroon color. I could not resist the opportunity to play with this contrasting color.

A taste of love cards

2010-01-18T22:11:00.000-08:00

Get your custom made valentine's day cards now.

5 x 7 Flat w/ matching envelopes

Press printed high quality stationary card

25 for $45.00

50 for $65.00

Press printed high quality pearl shine card

25 for $50.00

50 for $75.00

Your photos can be sent to me or call for a photography session.

Rebecca Harper Photography

Website Launch

2010-01-13T21:50:00.001-08:00

My Photography website officially launched.

Thanks for everyone who shared their time with me.

Professional Prints are also available for purchase.

Recent Photo sessions

2009-12-31T12:58:00.000-08:00

Beeler Family on location at the farmer's market in San Ramon.

Hendrickson family on location at Vasona Park in Las Gatos.

Megan's Senior Shots

2009-12-13T10:43:00.000-08:00

We shot at a couple different location in Pleasanton with the girls willing to cross bridges and railroad tracks. It was a fun adventure to find all these great spots.

Photos from this weekend

2009-12-06T23:55:00.001-08:00

My Sister's family was in town this weekend and we took the kids out for some pictures. We found this great hill by a beautiful old oak tree and had the kids go up and down.

Alvarado Family

2009-12-06T22:33:00.000-08:00

Found a great location on San Ramon Blvd and got some sunburst shots. This is the Alvarado Family who we have been friends with for a couple of years. This shot was taken while they were preparing to take pictures and I love the way it came out.

2009-11-21T09:16:00.000-08:00

I had the privilege of visiting a dear friend last weekend in Phoenix, while Chad coached the U14 girls team in soccer. Wyatt, who is now 8 months old is so adorable. I caught some great moments of him and wanted to share.

Simply Inspired Challenge

2009-09-13T14:29:00.000-07:00

Simply Inspired No 17

Supplies Used

Katie Pertiet

Flossy Brown Stitches

Ledger Sun Print Paper Pack

Alandia Tropics Solids Paper Pack

Pattie Knox

DIY Acrylic Alphabets

Lynn Grieveson

Worn Page Edges No. 02

Anna Aspnes

Stitched by Anna White No. 05

CurvyCorner Stitched Blocks No. 01

For this simply inspired challenge, I found some halftone brushed here. I thought they fit perfectly for this challenge and I absolutely loved using them.

Snapshots of SJSU

2009-09-05T23:47:00.000-07:00

Walked around campus last week and took some nice shots. The sun was shining so bright, I wanted to use the light to the fullest.

Sun peaking through the palm trees.

Sun shining through the Caesar Chavez Plaza.

Sunburst making a great silhouette of the Olympic Athletes statue.

Looking up almost blinded me, but the welcome flag is being spotlit by the sun.

SJSU Tower clock

2009-06-25T08:43:00.000-07:00

My younger sister got married this past weekend (June 13th) and I snapped a few photos. Plan on putting some together for a book. On this page I combined the invitation words and a photo of them walking down the aisle. The brush on the side was also used on the invitation, which add a nice touch.

Carmel, California

2009-05-30T23:02:00.000-07:00

Headed out to Monterey for Memorial Day weekend and met my sister, her family and my mom and dad. The weather was cold and cloudy, but perfect for pictures.

The beach in Carmel was beautiful and the kids loved running around. It wasn't long until they splashed in the ocean, but I was able to catch some good shots before they got all wet.
Love this one of Megan, she was running around and as I pulled out my camera she stopped and gave me this cute smile.

2009-04-29T21:36:00.000-07:00

Designer Digitals Gallery Standout.

This layout was created for the guest creative team contest at Designer Digitals. The challenge was to scrap a layout with "NO PEOPLE". I actually love the way this layout turned out because of how much of a connection I have with the stuff at my grandma's house.

2009-02-28T00:09:00.001-08:00

View Project at Shutterfly

30 YEARS....YOUNG

2009-01-30T22:24:00.001-08:00

Celebrated my 30th b-day on Monday by enjoying a beautiful day in the city (San Francisco). Chad and I both had the day off and the kids stayed with grandma for the day. We spent the afternoon by the Ferry Building and walked out on the pier that over looks the bay bridge. There were not very man people around and when I asked a older gentleman to take a picture of us, it didn't turnout very well so i decided to prop the camera on my bag leaning slightly upward and had it timed for a shot. I love this picture.....

Here is a rule that I learned when cutting off people's body parts in a picture.

1. Never cut at the joints (elbow, knee etc.)

2. When cutting the head, never cut directly on the neck line.

3. When cutting the body, never cut exactly on the waist line.

4. When cutting a face, never cut half of the face, do less than or more than half. This works vertically or horizontally.

I have always followed this rule and most of the time I have a successful body cutting picture...ha ha. Also, try using this cutting technique when cropping photos... it works just as well.

On another note... just purchased Adobe Lightroom II, which is a great tool for digital photographers and love it. By using this product, you are able to adjust digital photos in a professional way.

I just can't help it...

2009-01-07T19:41:00.000-08:00

Just wanted to share so layouts that were completed during Christmas break.

December Daily

2008-12-02T22:15:00.000-08:00

25 Days of Christmas is a creative group lead by Ali Edwards to document the activities and festive notions of Christmas. The group is uploading photos on Flickr and sharing books, both traditionally and digital.

On Day One: Monday, Dec 1st I brought my camera along with me to work, but never got a chance to take a good photo. When I got home I turned on the Christmas lights on our tree and was excited to see the yellow glow. "It's Christmas Time" as Savana would say.

Day Two... headed to starbuck to meet a friend for coffee before work...once again I wanted to take a picture of us having coffee, but forgot the camera in my car...so I snapped a quick shot of the holiday cup from starbucks in the car.

It was getting late in the evening and the kids were starving when i picked them up after work, so we headed to "In 'n Out" for a quick dinner. I loved to see their festive holiday wrapping as well. Everywhere we go Christmas is in the air.

LOVE being with you...

2008-11-21T01:39:00.000-08:00

I finished this book about a week ago and love looking at it.

The details

2008-11-21T01:28:00.001-08:00

~ title on transparency~

~ O and V~

~ transparency~

~E~

~back page~

This is a project that I have wanted to do for awhile. I saw it in the creating keepsakes magazine a couple of months ago and fell in love with it. It was an Ali Edwards piece in which she used transparency very well in this word book. This word book is made by Bo Bunny and I used 7 gypsies and Hambly patterned paper. The alphabet stickers are American Crafts and the word stickers are Making Memories.

I used vertical 5x 7 photos.. they fit the best. I also loved using everyday photos of nonsense... I was a bit scared to crop the photos in the shapes of the letters, but when I did, I loved it.

Holiday Project: Pumpkin Decor

2008-11-17T18:35:00.000-08:00

I friend Lydia found this project online and shared it with all of us. This project done by magpie, and when I saw it, I knew I had to do it. In her sample she creates a beautiful pear, and I decided to do a pumpkin. I found this Russian book in the lost and found box at work. The book had not been claimed all summer so I thought I could make good use of it. I also saw Anthropology use this technique to decorate their store. They had four or five hung vertically in their store window in rows of 10 or 12.

This is a great technique and you should try it... directions are on the site of magpie...good luck and have fun.

Cold Weather + Soccer Games

2008-11-10T21:11:00.000-08:00

We all went out Saturday night in the cold weather watch the boys Chad coaches. I was anticipating that it would rain, but it didn't. We were able to sit right in back of the team with out bothering them and the kids were able to run around and up and down the bleachers that were near by.
Te game ended in a tie, but the kids were entertained well.

Halloween fun

2008-11-03T21:34:00.000-08:00

We traveled to Kingsburg for the weekend to spend Halloween with my mom and my sister. We went trick or treating with all the kids and got so much candy... Caleb (above) looked super cool in his vintage football uniform. Megan, who I didn't get a good picture of, went as Dorthy and Maddi pranced around in a clown outfit.

She is too cute!!!

Ct went out like an army guy...my mom made this great costume and we got so many compliments everywhere we went. He was so delighted to walk up to a house stick his helmet out and get candy.
And Savana was a bumblebee. She had decided to be a bee about three weeks ago and could not stop talking about it. We all had a great time in Kingsburg.

Savana playing soccer

2008-10-25T09:46:00.001-07:00

On Wednesdays, Chad has personal training in Danville and he was able to get Savana in at the same time... it is not personal training, but fundamentals. Savana loves it.

She loves Coach Johnny too. Her is so patient with these 3's and 4's.

When I ask her if she likes swimming or soccer, she says "I like swimming and soccer".

8 x 8 Digi Album

2008-10-17T20:45:00.000-07:00

So I wanted to share what I have been working on for the past week. I am hooked on digital scrapbooking. The options are endless with the Shutterfly albums that you can create. I choose a color theme for this album, to help Savana out with her colors. Colors always makes a great album.

Page 1

Page 3

Page 5

I think I enjoy making a book because it is like a yearbook for your family. How was I to know that two years at Editor n' Chief of my high school yearbook was fueling my desire to create.

Page 7

Page 9

Each page has a white background, so on this blog post each page might look a little seamless.

Page 11

Page 13

Page 15

My favorite part about this project is that I used pictures that I don't usually use for scrapbooking, they may be too blurring, or one of many, but I choose my pictures based on color.

Page 17

Last Page

This was great fun, I recommend everyone should try it. Shutterfly has already made templates by designers so you don't have to do too much work.

A week in the life...so I didn't complete it..

2008-10-04T08:55:00.001-07:00

All week I tried to follow along with Ali Edwards... Documenting a week in the life challenge... but it didn't work out well.. I found myself not writing down as much information as others and I got discouraged. I did however get great photos... Here are a few I loved.

Although I had a great time taking pictures of things I don't usually take, I thought about my camera all. This pictures is at the FALL FESTIVAL BBQ at SJSU... We were in charge of he tie-dye station.

Afternoon ice coffee... yum....

Good Morning CT... you came to work with me on Wed. Oct 1st.

Snapped this photo of Savana in the back of the car... I call it a no lookie photo... I literally just turned my camera around as I was driving (not really a safe idea) and got this great expression on her face.

Documenting a week in the life of...

2008-09-29T21:30:00.000-07:00

Monday, Sept 29th

I let the kids sleep in today, it was a long weekend of soccer and they needed to rest. Grandma cam to pick them u around 8:30am and I was headed to Shepard's Gate, the local Christian Donation Center to drop off about 8 bags of clothes. I decided to call first and I came to find out that they didn't accept donations until 9:30am, so I had about an hour of free time.

Free time = Computer time

- Updated Blog

- Checked out some Digi Holiday cards

- Emailed c0-workers some great photos of the Triathlon on the 27th

- Went to Starbucks for a Vanilla Latte and a cinnamon swirl coffee cake.

Found an old $5 gift card!

Monday + Sticky Notes + 75 degree weather

- 3:30 workout: 10 min run, 60 min Chair Reformer Class

I need to find a new motivation to work out....

-Nov 8th 5K seems too far away.

Hard + Challenging = Good Workout

- Monday is my day to prepare for the week.

- Work Baby Shower- Thursday

- Friend Baby Shower- Sunday-RSVP NOW!

- Call mom about Halloween Weekend

I have a flamingo on my desk that reminds me about my family. My Maiden name is Garza, which means flamingo in Spanish.

Remind me everyday...

- Quick dinner at Grandma's

- Pick up the kids and chat about the weekend.

Brother & Sister

382nd Place...

2008-09-28T15:12:00.003-07:00

Ok, so I didn't place in the top 100, but hey out of 1000+ women, I thought I did pretty well.

I was nervous all week preparing myself for my first sprint triathlon... 400 yd swim, 11 mile bike and 3 mile run. This took place in Pleasanton at Shadow Cliffs on Saturday the 27th. It was all Kirky's idea and Dana and I joined in... we all work together in recreation at SJSU at thought it would be a great challenge... we got Kim and Carrie (students) to join us too.

Everyone did really well, I ranked 47 in the swim, Kirky kicked butt on the bike and Dana's run was an outrageous 22min.

This experience was a great one and I hope to do it again and encourage others to join in.

You can view all the results right here.

Veggie Tales...

2008-09-24T17:31:00.000-07:00

We went to a Veggie Tales Concert that was hosted by Cornerstone Fellowship. This was the first type of activity the kids have been to that included music with a dark surrounding. Savana was scared at first, but then the stage crew pulled out the bubbles and this kids went wild.

I chased CT around the whole night. Thank goodness grandma came with us to watch Savana. She was able to stay with Savana while CT ran around trying to hug all the little girls. The act was very amusing and fun to watch. I am sure they will both enjoy another kid concert just like it.

We didn't stay for the whole thing, by 9:00pm the kids were exhausted.

Going to school

2008-09-12T22:02:00.000-07:00

This was the official second week of school. Savana has adjusted well and has only one bad morning... that is pretty good since her wake-up time has been moved to 2 hours earlier. We have a long year ahead of us, but it will be so much fun.

I also have to confess. I have no "first day of school photos" I don't want to bore you with my ignorance, but I basically deleted them while figuring out all the SLR Camera gadgets at the photography event.

I this photo is a result of the great event, using your SLR off auto was the theme and I have to say I am getting use to it... I love how this photo captures the back of Savana, while the rest of it is still in motion.

CPR-San Jose--- so much fun

2008-08-30T16:44:00.000-07:00

This weekends has been so much... and I have learned so much. I also met so many great girls... Lynn, Dawnettte and I participated in the scavenger hunt and had so much fun.

We find out the results for the contest tonight...I am so excited....

Summer...in the pool

2008-08-15T17:43:00.000-07:00

We spent last weekend back at my home town in celebration of little Maddi's 1st b-day party. My sister decided to have a pool party, CT and Savana loved it. It was nice to go back home... we hadn't been back since Christmas and everyone was amazed on how big the kids got.

Savana actually went underwater over and over again... I think she felt really comfortable in the 2 feet deep water...she didn't want to get out...

I actually gave up on any progression in swimming lessons for Savana . She was afraid to go underwater all summer long. I was so excited to see her finally do it on her own.

Digital Scrapbook Page #2

2008-08-07T19:42:00.000-07:00

I had a lot of fun making this page, because I didn't follow the complete step to the kit. I added the other elements that I have been waiting to try out... paint splatters, tread stitches and alpha stamps.

12 x 12 digi

2008-08-02T18:40:00.000-07:00

This layout was a really big challenge for me, mainly because of the new Cs3 program I got... I have to admit, I am not to knowledgeable on all this digital scrapbooking, but I pretend to be. Actually, I have to give all this credit to Cassie Jones who developed a great lesson on distressing for DesignerDigitals, with a mini-kit b Katie Pertiet.

I love this picture of Savana. It was taken as everyone was singing happy birthday to her. She just loves birthdays and I wanted to make this day more than special for her. I can't believe she is three already. Savana will be attending pre-school in the fall and we are excited around here.

2008-07-24T10:32:00.000-07:00

I was in for a treat when my sister asked me to do her engagement invitations. I was so excited because of the new style of invitations made by Hambly has been popping up everywhere. This was my first attempt at this style... I love it!

The overlay transparency serves as a great backing because of its thickness and the ensemble of colors in the same patterns that Hambly makes give so many options to a stationary set.

Supplies Used:

Paper Source: Pure White Envelopes and cardstock.

Hambly Screen Prints: Brocade Clear Overlay and Brocade Patterned Paper.

DISNEYLAND 2008

2008-07-03T21:33:00.000-07:00

Our family vacation was a trip to Disneyland this summer. We drove down with mimi and papa in a 6 hour drive to L.A. so that that we could all enjoy some time together.

Savana insisted on wearing her Snow White dress all day and actually go some really nice attention from Snow White herself and some of the dwarfs during the character parade. CT also attracted attention, but it was from the crowd laughing at him as he tried to wrestle out of my arms to follow the parade.

Savana also got some special attention from Woody & Jesse. Woody led her into the cabin and she sat right by Jesse and colored with her....

CT was a handful and maybe a little too young to fully enjoy Disneyland, but though all the effort we had a lot of fun.

MDW DT Challenge- CASEY

2008-06-15T22:57:00.000-07:00

Talking about Dad and what he has actually taught me... that is what Casey's Challenge is all about.... Casey who a one of the most talented artist I know has brought a new challenge to the MDW blog... and I actully enjoyed doing it.

I actually have to admit I have not done anything for Dad... life was hard growing up and well, I really need to put it all behind me. When I reflected on Caseys Challenge, it made me think of everything my father has given me... he raised me in a humble way..., taught me the imporatnce of homemade goods, always give thanks to others and for some reason he has left a legacy with the people around him. THANKS DAD!

Take time to remember what dad gave you and post at the MDW blog for your chance to win a great RAK from Casey!

ATC CARD: Hambly Tranperancy Overlays, mini graphs; Making Memories word stickers and patterned paper.

Srapbooking...Hybrid style

2008-06-01T17:38:00.000-07:00

Really been into the hybrid layouts...this type of scrapbooking is getting more and more popular, I just had to add my twist to it. I love the look (digital) of the layered photos. The Hybrid portion would be considered the "real elements" which include, the flower, gems, button and title.
All my digital elements are from designer digitals...this place has tones of great elements.

When I scrapbook hyprid style I tend to only have the background paper, photos and photo frames as digital elements.
Easy Hybrid Layout step by step process coming soon!!!

looking at old photos...

2008-05-22T00:03:00.001-07:00

I think I have always had a camera in my hand. My SLR was purchased 2 years ago and I think I have flurished on the photography skills. I am no pro at it, but I enjoy capturing those great moments.

heat embossed covered mini album-finished

2008-05-18T13:44:00.000-07:00

I really enjoyed doing this album, creating it took me out of my elements... well kinda... I have never embossed on anything to do with scrapbooking and absolutelty fell in love with it again. This Maya Road 4 x 4 mini album is one of my favorites and explains alot about me... so I know that it will be treasured by my children.

I choose to use Basic Grey and Hambly Studios Patterened Paper as well as Hambly Studios Tansperancies. I also added a little bit of Tinkering Ink Patterened Paper torn and adhered to the edge of the transperancy.

This is our 2007 Family Photo...

I had some Making Memories definition sticker in by stack of stuff and finally had a change to use them, I also used a digital journaling piece that was printed and journaled on.

In the hospital minuites after CT was born.

As for journaling topics, I decided to explain when I became who I was... for example, "3 years ago"- my name becane mommy.

I love this photo...

7 years ago...

I became Ruth Rebecca Harper

I was able to fit 10 photos in the 8 page mini album... all pages are back with chipboard and inked around the edges...

I will be teaching this class at Califonia Stampin' in July- information is not yet up to date, but I will post it when it does... hope you can join me.

Come and play with me!

2008-05-12T20:33:00.000-07:00

MDW Design Team Challenge

Check it out and don't forget to post...

project #1 reuse

2008-04-30T13:39:00.000-07:00

step 1: What kind of stuff is around me that I tend to overlook?

Packaging...

I bought new shelving units for the kids' room at The Container Store and two great boxes came in the packaging (one one each end to protect the shelf). They also happen to have four slender sheets of cardboard inside.

step 2: How can I reuse it?

Brainstorming...

I decided to make a mini book, but include the box as the enclosure.

step 3: What kind of supplies do I need?

Preparing...

For this project I covered the cardboard completely with an acrylic gesso in order for the white acrylic paint to tuely be white. Next I mixed white acrylic paint with a glossy gel medium so that the paint would dry shinny.

Step 4: How do I put it together?

Designing...
To bind this book together I just punch two holes at the end for the loose rings I had left over from another project. 4 x 6 size photos worked really well with this project.

step 5: What is the purpose of this mini album?

Journaling..

Once I captured the essence of this album " ME", the journaling came easy. I decided to explain in short journaling strips what is important to "ME", what is "MY" passion, who is "MINE" and what "MAKES" me happy...

Step 6: Oh, that's right use the shelving unit....

project reuse.... is done....

reduce reuse recycle

2008-04-30T10:10:00.000-07:00

Today is the last day of sustainability month... and I can not help but pay attention to all the "green" friendly ads, products and information that has popped up over the last month. Last week, SJSU had a week long celebration of sustainability which ended with our 1st annual Spartan Triathlon at the Aquatic Center We had 100 participants and 30 + volunteers. This event was earth friendly by using 100% recyclable corn oil cups and using sidewalk paint to number events and areas in place of paper...

We all have kids....

2008-04-20T15:29:00.000-07:00

You know that time is passing by to quickly when a bunch of your old friends from college get together and there are now kids running around.

We all met up at Elisa's house to enjoy Christy's visit to California from New York. Elisa, Christy and I were roomates in college and played water polo for SJSU. Julie came into the picture a year later and we all keep in touch. We all love to scrapbook too so that keeps us connected also.

From left to right

Christy's boy: Quint or... Baxter Key Richardson V is in the blue stripped shirt. Next is Isabella who belongs to Julie and she is holding CT. Savana is next to Isabella and Shelby, who is Elisa's is below Savana. Luke, is Julie's second child and he is at the end.

CT finally had enough and came crying to mommy.

weekend fun

2008-03-25T23:21:00.000-07:00

So I had the whole weekend planned and well... it didn't go the way I had thought it would, but it was a weekend to remember. Savana and I started off with a great Friday at work, while dad was in charge of bubba, we enjoyed bagels from the local bagel shop and Savana made all the customers happy as they passed by my office. She continued to entertain herself while I worked for a couple of hours, then she got restless as I assured her we would go swimming and the hours kept passing. So I put my suit on and none the less, Savana's new suit from Old Navy... she looked too cute. We jumped in and enjoyed the sunshine for about 20 minutes. Well, Savana did not leave off from last summer, but she'll get back into being comfortble in the water... I just know it.

We got home and CT had a great day...(not often with a mama's boy). But I soon discovered that his head was shaved... yup...Chad wanted his son to have some resemblance of him... not to mentioned CT has his eyes... he needed the same haircut too... I wasn't mad, just alittle shocked.

Saturday turned out pretty well, we went to Shelby's birthday party and spent the afternoon teaching Savana that all those presents belong to Shelby and not Savana... well Tia Elisa was kind enough to let Savana open the packages for Shelby...being one only means you can eat the package, not open them. Shelby enjoyed her cake eating and all those babies to rock-a bye.

RESURECTION SUNDAY...as we state in our house...was planned to be a fun-filled relaxing day, but it was only the end to a long weekend. Savana attended Sunday school and actually walked in the classroom without even crying... CT ended up falling asleep in the nursery, but the fun was about to begin as we headed to grandma's house.

The kids enjoyed the wonderful brunch and then we all headed out for the egg/gift hunt in the backyard.

After the egg hunt both kids got

restless/annouyed/frustrated/irritated and just plan crabby....

well and that made my afternoon and me

restless/annouyed/frustrated/irritated and just crabby...

then we took a nap...and had dinner...

We eventually all calmed down, but the whole process was a big lesson to learn...

DON'T SET EXPECTATIONS...

which I tell my self over and over agin, but just doen't seem to jog my mind to think overwise...

ohhh HappY Easter... Reserection Sunday!

8 x 8 mini circle album

2008-02-20T18:01:00.000-08:00

Thanks to one of the most talented ladies I know... Casey who is an accomplished and published artist, she informed me about the Prima Hybrid contest. Well and encouraged me to enter. So, I put together this 8 x 8 mini circle album from Rusty Pickle that has been laying in my supplies for a very long time.

First step was to create a template on my computer page that would be easily cut out in to the 8 x 8 circle. Then I played with tht digital elements from Katie and Designer Digitals

Next, I enlarged the photos to fit the same 8 x8 circle and added text that would wrap around the circle. I love how this came out.

After printing the final versions (more times than one), I cut the circles out and added some tradtional element.

I mainly used Hambly papers, well because I love their sharp colors and well to get me outside my box of patterened paper always having to match. Then I added the colorful ric rak on each page.

The most difficult part was the actual digital elements, after they were printed this project took less than one hour to complete.

VIVA PRIMA!

finally out in the mail

2008-02-04T22:11:00.000-08:00

I did it... 9 layouts and a mini album later... I decided to enter the HOF contest again...why?? Well, the challenge is a great part and I thought I put together some of my best work...

store samples...

2008-01-27T22:24:00.001-08:00

In this layout CT was about 7 months when he started to crawl and I had to catch him in action. I love the way continuous photos look when they are side by side on a layout. The photos tell a better story that way.
I really do love how this layout came together... the Scenic Route Alphabet chipboards were a lot of fun to play with. For the first time I played with Sassafras Lass papers and absolutely loved them.

Creating for MDW has been a great oppportunity... not only does it push me to do those layouts that need to be done, I have been able to meet such talented people.

All the designers for MDW just had a great make-and-take opportunity at MDW and Sheri and Daniela did a great job putting it together.

need motivation to workout??

2008-01-11T15:22:00.000-08:00

Just wanted to share some healthy goodness from our event that will be in March. It is our First annual Aquathlon and I am so excited to be apart of it.... if you need alittle more incentive to workout, this SWIM RUN is a good goalt o have in mind... you can find more information and register here...

ahhhh- no more sickness

2008-01-10T21:07:00.000-08:00

Two Weeks, FOURTEEN DAYS... our house has been sick. Cough, Fever, Headaches, Ear infections and not to mention pink eye... We have be stuck in our house for two weeks trying not to infect anyone else and well trying to get better. This is the first day of the new year where we had a good night sleep, we ate three healthy meals, the kids took a nap and didn't fight over every little thing... I thought just taking care of one child being sick was hard... two is three times, maybe even four times harder.

OH, but it is all over and we are on the road to recovery...CT actually played most of the day today.

wrapping the gifts---check

2007-12-19T13:09:00.000-08:00

Almost done...

I got a great package of wrapping paper at Costco. It is really thick and comes in great color coordinating mixes. Decide to go with red and white this year, with alittle hint of lime green. I love this color comb.

Lime green and silver ribbon is from the Container Store and the tags are from paper source, I added some extra embellishments of snowmen on the tags that give each gift a special touch.

Here were the gift for the girls on Chad's Soccer team. Mustang Soccer-Fury had their Christmas party this past weekend and I wanted to give the girls something special... they each got a pair of toe socks, purchased at Foot Traffic, then I found these great boxes at the Container Store and added their initial to each box. These came from all my scraps of chipboard, I couldn't believe I found sixteen different letters (and outlines of letters) for each girl, the ended up adoring them.

Christmas Card---Check

2007-12-05T18:12:00.000-08:00

So much fun to create your own holiday card, digital for that matter... the credit is due to Katie Pertiet from Designer Digitals... she creates such great digi papers and embellish to work with.

Wishing you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!!!--- Love the font... that was also a great find at scrapbooking fonts dot com.

Happy Wednesday... the week is almost over...

family photo---check

2007-11-28T16:20:00.000-08:00

This is the third year in a row in which the Harpers have a family photo, I think this is our nicest one yet. In years past we took one at the Tilford Christmas Tree Nursery and also at Cornerstone Fellowship. Although everyone enjoys the photo session, I coulbn't help but notice the cheers from the crows as I ran back an forth from the camera. I think it was about a 8 sec run across all these rocks... I think most people were hoping I wouldn't fall into the water below.

I snapped some cute pics of the kids also, I plan on ordering some enlargements at mpix and maybe doing up a little digi christmas card. Scrapbook Pictures has a 4 x 8 size that would be great! 2007 Family photo--check!

Right Brain vs Left Brain test ...

2007-11-20T15:18:00.000-08:00

You all need to take this test... it is way cool. Which way do you see the lady spining? At first I saw her spining to the right, but after I focused on her feet, I was able to change the direction she was spinning... check it out for yourself and tell me what you think!

The Spining Lady test

THE Right Brain vs Left Brain test ... do you see the dancer turning clockwise or anti-clockwise?

If clockwise, then you use more of the right side of the brain and vice versa. Most of us would see the dancer turning anti-clockwise though you can try to focus and change the direction; see if you can do it.

LEFT BRAIN FUNCTIONS uses logic detail oriented facts rule words and language present and past math and science can comprehend knowing acknowledges order/pattern perception knows object name reality based forms strategies practical safe

RIGHT BRAIN FUNCTIONS uses feeling "big picture" oriented imagination rules symbols and images present and future philosophy & religion can "get it" (i.e. meaning) believes appreciates spatial perception knows object function fantasy based presents possibilities impetuous risk taking

snap shot!

2007-11-14T10:28:00.000-08:00

So here are some snapshots of some layouts I had alot of fun doing. If you haven't tried the new Hambly Heavy Overlays, you should... they are great and actually more durable and easy to work with than I thought.

2007-11-08T16:04:00.000-08:00

LOVe it! just playing on the ComPuter and waNted to Share thIs cOlor combo...
How does it mAke yoU fEel?

It kinda makes me feel jiggy..

making a list

2007-11-08T15:47:00.000-08:00

TO DO:

1. Christmas Pictures of the kids

2. Christmas Cards: to make or not to make?

3. Holiday Party Invitations: visit PaperSource

4. Start gift list

It's Halloween Time...

2007-10-31T22:18:00.000-07:00

I couldn't believe it, Savana let me dress her all up in the costume my mom made. She was Abby Cadaby for her official first "trick or treat" halloween. The best part was watching her reaction in the mirrow as I applied make-up. She loved it.

CT dressed up also, I found a dinosour costume which fits his personality the best right now. He has been growing and screaming like a dinosoaur for attention.

We ended the night attending out church "Candy Zone" event. The place was packed with kids and candy... can you imagine the craziness! Savana spent the who time in the bounce house.

oooh these kids....

2007-10-24T14:00:00.000-07:00

They really do crack me up, between trying new foods with CT and learning new tricks with Savana, my days are always filled with exciting adventures. This is a photo of Savana's famous "don't take my picture" face... it is priceless. Today, I think CT hit his head about 10 times... by pulling, yanking and grabbing things he shouldn't be.