Kicking Off The Holidays - Christmas Tree Hunting

This was so much fun!  Although, finding the perfect size and shape was a bigger challenge than I expected.  I loved driving out to the country while listening to Christmas music and trudging off into the forest to find our perfectly imperfect tree.  Checklist for tree hunting:  bundled kids, a willingness to listen to some complaining from kids but mostly from husband (ha ha), a saw, a sleigh to pull the tree, tie-downs, permit and map, snacks, hot chocolate, and some Christmas tunes.

Our tree is up and all decorated in shiny brights and twinkling lights.  While the scent of freshly cut spruce fills the air, I reminisce of the fun we had out in the forest in search of the this monument that would bring the Spirit of Christmas into our home.  Let the Festivities begin!

You can purchase a permit through Alberta SRD or the Junior Forest Warden Association.  Only $5 for 3 trees.  Happy tree hunting!

A Collection of Vintage Cameras and Quotes | Pink Antler Photography

This is me getting creative with the things that I love.  Photography, Photoshop, vintage camera's, and positive thoughts.  I can't get enough of the thrill of finding these babies at thrift shops, garage sales, flee markets, and antique stores. Yes, they are cheep thrills that bring me joy.  Especially when I find out the camera actually works!

The Shops at Station 8 | Antiquing Montana

Montana is known for its whimsical roadside antiquing.  It's one of the reasons why I love to vacation there.  That and its heart-stopping beauty (of course).  Last summer I came across this old train station that was turned into the most amazing and inspiring antique shops I've been to.  I spent hours there, just looking, and getting all giddy inside.  She sells everything from antiques, up-cycled home decor, handmade jewelry, for the garden, and more.

I approached the shop owner, Colette Gross and asked if she would mind if I took some pictures.  She was so welcoming and such a delight to talk to. She had so much to talk about and share with me.  I, myself sometimes daydream about opening up a store, so it was really nice to get her feedback on the amount of time and energy it takes to run a business.  Not only is she the owner and operator of this shop, she also holds seminars for women on how to become a successful entrepreneur.  This woman is so full of life, energy, knowledge, and inspiration, it's off the hook!  And she has a really kick @$$ shop.  I just love her spirit. 

Visit her website at www.station8antiques.com and "like" her page on facebook. If you are ever near Columbia Falls, this shop is a must! 

I bought a huge globe from her for my collection.  But now that I'm looking back at these pictures, I'm regretting not buying more (tear).  I WANT the Hot Springs sign! So cool.  And I Love the typewriting quote on "Love". So very true. 

Mexico - Off the Beaten Path

As much as I loved the resort experience of Mexico, I was itching to get into town to capture its authentic side.  To walk around the streets of Puerto Morelos was a little unnerving with the military on close watch with rifles in hand, yet humbling to see the people living a lower quality of life than most of us are used to.  And yet they seem so happy.  That just goes to show that Heaven on Earth is a choice we must make, not a place we must find.  Although,  The Mayan Riviera is pretty darn heavenly.  It is truly a place on Earth where you will find a little piece of Heaven.  These images depict everything I love about Mexico. The colors, the people, the culture, the food, the wondering doggies, the rustic hallways and stairwells, the old cars, the faith, the craftsmanship, it's all so beautiful.