Last weekend, Pete and I headed to Hague’s Christmas Trees with Betty White in tow to search for our very own Christmas tree. This was our first time cutting one down all by ourselves, and I must say, I liked the farm experience much more than picking a pre-cut tree. We ended up going with a Scotch Pine, which had loads of adorable pine cones on it (although most of them didn’t survive the bumpy ride home).
Sorry for the unfortunate photos of us—the sun was harsh and made us look crazy, but at least it was warm out.
They had loads of wreaths, berries, glittery pine cones, and other goodies to choose from. Where do you guys get your seasonal decor—did anyone else go to a local tree farm to spread some holiday cheer?
Tags: christmas, farm, holiday, tree
Posted in everyday life, happenings
As some of you may recall, back when Pete popped the question, I also had some other exciting things to celebrate that same day. Generocity, the Greater Philadelphia area’s source for nonprofit news and networking, had contacted me for an interview. To be given the opportunity to put the spotlight on the nonprofit world really excited me, so when I found out last week that I would be joining the team as their Content Associate, I was elated.
In addition to helping spot and tell stories, I’ll also be given the opportunity to represent the content visually, whether through photography or other visual mediums. As someone who (humbly!) considers herself a writer and photographer (and illustrator!), I’m often asked “Well, which one do you like the most?” in job interviews. Even though I know the interviewer wants to hear “Oh, of course I like ____ the most” (depending on the job’s focus), I never quite know how to answer. The truth is, being able to potentially blend provoking imagery with compelling content is very exciting to me. I enjoy the challenges writing and photography bring and look forward to growing stronger as both a writer and an artist.
With my first story for Generocity, the photos inspired the opening of the article, which is often the hardest part to write (at least for me, anyway). Having the visual experience gave me the opportunity to bring readers along with me during my tour of the Philadelphia’s Children Alliance. Ideally, I’m hoping to be able to touch people in small ways so they will be encouraged to give, whether through volunteering or even donating to some of these amazing nonprofits. That being said, I was incredibly inspired by the obvious strength at the PCA, both by the professional staff and the children who have the courage to speak up and tell their stories.
I look forward to sharing all of the stories I’ll be rolling out during my adventures as a staff member of Generocity. I encourage you all (especially Philly readers!) to check out the website, “like” them on Facebook, and follow them on Twitter to connect with people who have the same interests, concerns, and passions. Anyway, that’s my little plug, I will be sure to share some insights into my daily work life once my position begins (on Monday!).
For those of you who are local to the Philadelphia area, what are some of your favorite nonprofits that you feel deserve some extra love?
Tags: Generocity, job, nonprofits, Philadelphia, photography, volunteer, writing
Posted in everyday life, happenings, photography
{Photo credit}
Just to warn you guys, I am going to be a bit quiet over here during these next few days. If you’re wondering why, it’s because my future is going to look a lot like the woman’s above. My insane family of 7 requested a 24 lb. turkey, so I have my work cut out for me. Up until this week, I had no idea what a giblet was (and I was pronouncing it wrong to boot), so hopefully by the end of the week I’ll be a full blown mini-Martha. I’ll be posting all about our “menu” with recipes and photos after the fact, so cross your fingers that I don’t catch everything on fire.
Tags: family, Thanksgiving, turkey
Posted in family, happenings
When the lovely Veronika from Tick Tock Vintage asked if she could use our house as a backdrop for a photoshoot with her husband Bryan, I was totally flattered. It was an absolute blast watching behind the scenes as Amber from Live It Out Photography captured the gorgeous couple and vintage styling (all by the uber talented Veronika!). From handmade pies and mojitos to barbecued deliciousness, Veronika and Bryan totally spoiled us by providing dinner for us all.
Here are some of my favorite shots from the always-adorable Amber…seriously, this girl has major skills and you’d be crazypants not to hire her for photography if you’re in the D.C. area! Thanks again to Veronika and Bryan for hosting such an amazing photo adventure in our backyard…it’s pretty darn exciting to see how much potential our new home has for future shindigs. Keep an eye out for a glimpse of Betty White hiding behind me, per usual!
{Photos courtesy of Live It Out Photography}
Tags: home, Live It Out Photography, photography, shoot, yard
Posted in happenings, photography
Almost nothing beats fresh apple cider from Linvilla Orchards (unless you’re smart enough to try the apple cider doughnuts). Pete has been hearing me talk about this place for well over a year, so it was only fair to finally make the trip together and roam around the festive farmland. We started off our visit by roaming around the petting zoo and made our way to the sugar-coated confections. Navigating around the swarms of face-painted families is a tad bit challenging in the market, but it is totally worth it because their selection of squashes, pumpkins and gourds are out of this world.
Did I mention their goats have the prettiest eyes ever?
NOM. Their sweet, little apple cider jugs are the absolute cutest.
I couldn’t resist snapping a super sleuth photo of this cute youngster picking out a pumpkin. I love that the excitement of choosing the perfect pumpkin never fades away. This is the first year we have a house and can actually display our decorative lanterns on our porch steps, so I can’t wait to have a mini carve-off.
The sad Humpty Dumpty pumpkin and lazy-eyed Jersey Devil are two of my favorite regulars at Linvilla. How can you not love their faces?
There was also a mini “27 Club” jack-o-lantern shrine set up, including a Amy Winehouse pumpkin.
We ended our evening with the autumn moon hayride, watching the sunset lapse into the night sky. It was lovely riding through the fields and orchards and following it up by roasting marshmallows in a glowing bonfire.
What are some of your favorite spots for fall festivities in the area?
Tags: autumn, fall, festive, halloween, Linvilla Orchards, Media, pumpkin, pumpkin picking
Posted in everyday life, happenings