Sticks and Photos

So recently I have been wanting to play around with some of the manual settings on my DSLR camera, but in between teaching and well... life, I haven't had a ton of time. 

or many outings to take it on. 

So naturally the only subjects that are close enough by for a 5 min photo session are.... Piper Bear... and flowers. 

Speaking of the Bear, she has LOVED our new backyard in Dallas. After living in a townhouse with a back patio for a couple of years, she has been enjoying herself patrolling the backyard, chasing the ball and of course... sticks. She. LOVES. Sticks. Especially the ones that are longer than half her body. 

Mostly, she wants you to chase her with the sticks, but you know, I just really don't feel like playing that little game after a long day of teaching. So instead, she chews... I take photos. Win-Win right?

But sometimes she smiles really nice and pretty

.... when I hold a stick above the camera. 

And of course after she realizes I have zero interest in chasing her around with a stick... we sulk.

or she is just really sick of me taking her photo. Sorry Bear. 

 And of course.. I cant help myself but want to take photos of some pretty flowers I have had around the house lately.

Having so much fun with this lens and the lighting! Maybe I can get some more practice during the holiday season! Can you believe its NOVEMBER??? Where has the time gone!