Tuesday, January 31, 2012

Newborn Photography


Just a little hint at what I've been working on.


This is Jacob.  He was born at the beginning of this year, and this is his first photoshoot.  You see he looks pretty skeptical . . .




This shoot was done without the use of any props or baskets, and even without any holiday garb.  Just an honest photoshoot with natural lighting.


Much patience was required from myself, Arielle, and baby Jacob.








A very special thanks to Arielle, for letting me into her home to photograph this sweet baby.  I think all the patience was worth it :)

Saturday, January 21, 2012

Blueberry Lemon Jam


This is my first attempt at jams.  And though I was not entirely happy with my viscosity, I would definitely attempt this again.  It was delightfully easy to make.


And pretty good to eat.



Blueberry Lemon Jam:

8 cups fresh blueberries
5 1/2 cups sugar
3 tablespoons lemon juice
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
2 teaspoons grated lemon peel
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
2 pouches (3 ounces each) liquid fruit pectin







    • Place blueberries in a food processor; cover and process until blended. Transfer to a stockpot. Stir in the sugar, lemon juice, cinnamon, lemon peel and nutmeg. Bring to a full rolling boil over high heat, stirring constantly. Stir in pectin. Boil for 1 minute, stirring constantly.

    • Remove from the heat; skim off foam. Ladle hot mixture into hot sterilized half-pint jars, leaving 1/4-in. headspace. Remove air bubbles; wipe rims and adjust lids. Process for 10 minutes in a boiling-water canner.








    I found my first attempt to be a little too lemon-y, with too low of a viscosity.  I also found it too be too sugary.  I think those will base the adjustments I make to my next batch, which will be delicious.




    Monday, January 16, 2012

    Pieces of Trees













    Photos taken in Ft. White, Florida, December 2011.  Special appearances by "The Big Tree."