I heart amazing photographers

Last spring I stumbled upon an amazing photographer, Justin Hackworth's website. There was always a hope and dream that I would be able to make use of his skills and talents. That dream came true and my family was captured by his lens. I love these photos, love them. Here is a small sampling of the magic.

Everyone (maybe 5 readers) go check out his website and blog.
You will not be disappointed.

How to be...

The Favorite Aunt:

Step 1: Invite 7 year old niece over for a sleepover.
Step 2: Make dinner together
Step 3: Take a few silly pictures


Step 4: Introduce niece to the wonderful world of ward stare, I'm mean ward prayer.
Step 5: Go home, play Polly Pockets on line.
Step 6: Go to bed, big day ahead of us.
Step 7: Wake up at 7:15am, go to track, run 2 miles and stairs. She kicked my butt, pretty sure she got her running skills from her other side of the family.
Step 8: Go home, get ready, play more Polly Pockets, that girl loves fashion.
Step 9: Dress up in costumes and make a music video

Step 10: Eat lunch while niece wears her Favorite Aunt Ruthie's, sassy shoes.

Step 11: Continue in my reign as Favorite Aunt.

Spain in a Nutshell

I've done it. I have finally posted pictures from my trip to Spain. I know I've been back for quite a while now, a slacker I am.

My nephew, Mr. Spanglish. He is opening his Christmas presents from his FAVORITE AUNT Ruthie, on the day of my arrival.

On a walkabout with the fam. In the background is some sort of famous submarine but several years ago on a visit there I thought it was a torpedo. Maybe Spain likes large weapons, I'm not one to judge.

Mr. Spanglish, looking oh so cute at the docks. He's always ready with a pose.

Mr. Spanglish and the new addition to the family, Mr. Superman

Los Magos Reyes (Three Kings Day) Parade

Ward Party for Los Magos Reyes. Pictured here is one of the three wise men, Baltazar. Keeping with tradition a white guy paints his face black to be the African King. Hmm...
(Side note: I love the guy in the background that looks like he's being attacked by an unknown force)

All the kings and el obispo, my bro in law

Traditional dessert eaten on Three Kings Day. Yes, I ate some. Don't worry I might have fallen of the anti-sugar wagon in Spain, but jumped right back on it while crossing back over the Atlantic.

Posing with Mr. Spanglish, whose trying his best impersonation of Michael Jackson. I think he really pulled of the Michael attitude.

Walking towards the beach. Probably the coldest day while I was there, but fun none the less.

Catching some rays at the beach with Mr. Spanglish.

Just two superheroes saving the world, one day at a time.

Welcome to the Forest

Some of you may know, but some of you may not know. I, Ruthie, was born and raised in a forest. This forest to be more specific.

No I was not actually delivered in said forest, but I was brought home from the hospital to this quiet, well secluded region of the Northwest and lived there until the tender, naive age of 18.

Last week I had the opportunity to go home for Thanksgiving and decided to try and capture a bit of my home to share with friends. Now you may start to understand when I say "I grew up in a forest."

The house I grew up in and the very green front yard

My backyard

More backyard (Mt. Hood in the distance)


Front yard, and the trees I used to pretend were the front door to my house, where I would make mudpies.

Tree swings, my cousins and I did "tricks" on. We also spun each other up really high and tried not to get sick or their really long hair caught in the ropes.
(I did not have really long hair but that subject will not be discussed any further)

I also grew up along side Christmas trees.
It still pains me slightly to see fake Christmas trees.
My dad also says it's like taking food food out of his mouth.

I don't know if you knew, but Oregon is always wet. Including the spider webs.

This little guy must love rain.


Does your dad light a soaking wet brush pile on fire on
Thanksgiving morning and get the flames this big?

We lovingly call this area of the property "Fairyland"
I think the picture explains it all.


View from the Christmas tree field.


My grandfather's barn and authentic farm equipment.

There it is, my childhood playground. If you ever need a vacation where you don't ever have to see anyone, let me know. My parents are very hospitable. You could ride around on the tractor with my dad and eat really good food, made by my mom.

Better Late Than Never

My Spaniards finally arrived last night!
They were supposed to come Thursday night but they were bumped off their flight. Fortunately for me, and my near approaching birthday, they were nicely compensated. Mish requested no sign necessary, so of course that meant I needed to make one. I'm just trying to evoke the American Spirit, maybe they'll stay and never leave.