From Hong Kong To Shanghai

My family and I just got back from a trip to China where we visit my parents every year. I spent eight years growing up in Hong Kong, and in many ways, it still feels like home. Now, before you think I'm crossing over into fashion photography, there was this stunning model standing in the middle of the street. Helloo. Wouldn't you whip out your camera, too?

A bit of local street fare and my personal favorites (sorry if the first one makes you gag) -- fishballs drenched in curry sauce, and fresh sugar cane that can either be munched on or made into juice. Mmm.

A typical Chinese delicatessen:

I naturally had to snap one of the kids posing under a gigantic Buzz Lightyear.

Moving on to Shanghai, one of China's largest, most Westernized cities. Population: 20 million. It has one of the most booming economies in the Far East according to my dad.

While the trip is usually one big food and shopping fest for us, the main reason for our visit to Shanghai was to see Expo. I remember going to Expo in Vancouver, BC more than 20 years ago. It was such a cool experience. Here inside the Chinese Pavilion, many of the local children displayed their artwork. I don't ever remember painting or drawing like this! I love the effort and attention to detail:

Inside the Taiwan Pavilion, a beautiful "guanyin" -- meaning "goddess," only this one's in male form:

We were pretty lucky to be able to see the Italy and Germany pavilions as well. Masses of people stood in line for hours in the heat to get into some exhibits. A couple of abstract photos for fun...

Leaving Expo...

We had an awesome time and plan to check out Beijing and the Great Wall one of these days, maybe when the kids are older. I need to give a special shout-out to my husband who spends almost all of his vacation time making these trips possible. Until next year, China... zai jian!

Welcoming Charlotte

When I was recently asked to cover a baby shower, let's just say that my knee-jerk reaction was an absolute yes! Why? Details, details, details, because who doesn't appreciate those. Let's start with some food and favors...

Before I get too carried away, here is the guest of honor looking pretty fabulous at seven months, I think. Baby Charlotte got some good genes!

Must...have...mimosa. All except mama, of course.

This gal pictured next deserves a special mention because a) She is the dear friend of mama-to-be who helped mastermind the party details, b) Her smile says it all, and c) Her baby is The Gap's model of the month (okay, not really, but shouldn't he be?). And, the two ladies below are the BFFs' beautiful moms. Soon-to-be grandma on the right co-hosted and opened up her lovely home for this special day. Charlotte will be her first grandbaby!

More cutie pies to boot...

Details, please!

The baby library is a most excellent way to go for a gift idea. I love this next title:

It was a fun afternoon filled with so much love, and I'm so happy to have been there. Best wishes to baby Charlotte and her family!

Roll With It

We all know that some of the best moments in life happen in the bedroom. Or at least they should...

Some are not technically perfect, but they're often priceless.

Some involve gangster poses.

Some you just hope they'll look back on and remember with a smile. But, all, without a doubt, are beautiful in their unique way.

Hunky Hayden

I was so happy to meet this adorable muscly dude at six months. Easy baby + easy parents = fun times! The teething made for some nice dribbles, too.


Chillin' like a villain...


Okay, okay, I'll give you whatever you want. Just don't look at me with those humongous eyes, Mister!

Monkey or mohawk?

You might find it a bit strange (or not) that I thought about chomping on those arms.

And... it's a wrap, folks.

Thanks, Hayden. See the rest of the session here. Happy Friday! xo

Vintage Spring

It's been pretty blah here as far as the weather goes, but we seemed to luck out on Mother's Day. And the forecast looks promising for the rest of month (right, Seattle?). I hope I'm not the only one who finds it difficult to photograph her own children! But, I have to give it to my sweets who worked it out on this sunny spring day.

A little vintage dreamy action...

What happens when you say, "Please honey, I'm almost done... Just two more minutes? I promise."

A couple of B/W's for good measure:

Sunkissed

Here's one to cheer on backlight (even bright), the daddy-daughter connection that is sweet like no other, and the nostalgia when they look back.

Hope you have a great week!