Christmas was lovely at The Orphanage this year. The three of us spent the day together watching old Christmas movies, eating our body weight in seafood, and snuggling up on the couch.  The shortest member of our family discovered a variety of delicious treats in his stocking, and spent the day working through them one by one.

Our extended families were greatly missed, but it was good to catch up with everyone by phone during the day.  I wonder if we’ll ever have everybody together in the same hemisphere again, as we did for Christmas last year?

I hope your day was lovely, and that Santa delivered the goods!

Merry Christmas.

Earlier today I set out to take a photo of myself, since it’s been half a century since I’ve taken a self-portrait. I chose this morning because the light was so good, not because I’d taken the time to put on any makeup.

Pity, that.

This shot was never supposed to make the cut – I only took it to test my focus and shutter speed. I had decided to take a photo into the mirror, and was trying to angle it in a way that didn’t create a shadow.

It’s funny that all the “planned” shots ended up looking so unnatural, and that this one passed the test. I’d have hated this photo a couple of years ago, but today I’m happy to have a photo of me. Worry lines, freckles and all!

I was browsing through my photography portfolio this evening, and realised that I have never thought to put these two photos side by side.

West End, Brisbane

Queen St Mall, Brisbane

Both photos were taken in Brisbane about four years ago, and both men are rocking a style that only the crazy could invent.

One pink sock? Sure! Two pairs of pants? It’s genius!

I can’t let myself get away with just posting a quiz on a NaBloPoMo day!  So here – enjoy a photo I made last month for my 100 Snapshots challenge.

Note to self: Riding 25km on your bike is great. Good for you! However, since you haven’t ridden in a YEAR, maybe we could have started with something smaller?

I’m just going to come out and say it: I have a very sore, bruised arse.

It’s not even the exercise that has ruined my body today – it’s the bloody bike seat! Any cyclists out there who can recommend a brand or style of seat? I really need to replace mine, and I don’t know anything about this stuff.

Anyway, I took my camera along for the ride and took a few shots. Enjoy.

Part of my 101 Things in 1001 Days challenge.

Tim and I went out this morning to buy ourselves a new scanner. We chose the Canon Canoscan 8800F, which has a special backlight and mounts to scan 35mm and 120mm negatives, and slides.

I gave it a test run this afternoon with a roll of B&W film I had developed a couple of weeks ago, all shots from my kitchen. I need to be more careful about dust, but otherwise I am so happy with the results!

Click on the images for a larger version.

My camera was out a lot this weekend thanks to my 100 Snapshots challenge. As usual, Harry was happy to be the centre of attention.

This morning I set out to cross a few more words off my 100 Snapshots list. I’m really not sure if I’ll take all 100 photos, but it’s been a brilliant exercise in looking at the world around me in new ways. I’m over halfway through!

I came across these weird infestations of bugs in my backyard during my search for photos. They ended up making some beautiful shots.

Can anyone tell me what they are? Unless I discover that they’re somehow good for my garden, they’re on their way to insect heaven…

Just a quick update to show you some of the beautiful meals I’ve been making. This task is fast becoming one of my favourites in my 101 Things in 1001 Days list!

VIETNAM: Fresh rice paper rolls, and CHINA: San choy bau

FRANCE: Creme Brulee

SCOTLAND: Shortbread and Cheese & Chive Scones

AUSTRALIA: Damper

MEXICO: Caesar Salad
Look, I was as surprised as anyone that this originated in Mexico – but it did!

So good to expand my horizons a little with this challenge. I am keeping track of my progress over here – your suggestions are greatly appreciated!