Estello's Best

My boy is all grown up! Senior Portrait Time

2012-01-30T10:19:00.000-08:00

Obviously, as a pro photog person myself, I was NOT going to pay for photos. So my son and I set out one day to an on-location shoot that was I treated like any other Senior Portrait/Model shoot (a minimum of three head/shots with 2-3 clothing change option). We took various shot in causal attire (not shown), semi (with the dress shirt here) and one in his track field uniform. The one below is the one he chose (with mom's approval :D) for his senior portrait.

New DVD trailer!

2012-01-08T20:57:00.000-08:00

I have begun the happy journey to another DVD. In prelude to it, here is a sneak peek; trailer of what's to come posted on YouTube.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WXoI5QAwl1o

Enjoy!

Merry Christmas Everyone!

2011-12-25T08:54:00.000-08:00

Worth Passing On

2011-12-04T15:09:00.000-08:00

Hello All!

I know I have not touch base with you in a while, its been pretty hectic lately but I have found a nice read. I like it and I hope everyone can benefit from in some way.

Have a wonderful holiday and New Year!

Enjoy

please note: if for any reason, the link does not work, I know, I check it (clicking on it doesn't seem to work but copy and pasting it into the browser does), you can always just copy the entire line of text and copy it into the browser and read the article that way. Normally, I would just not post it but since it is such good information worth sharing; it's worth extra effort. "Trust me!"

http://finance.yahoo.com/news/13-smart-things-to-do-before-year-end.html

Epic vs Greatness

2011-10-20T16:55:00.000-07:00

My track star boys finally found a way to race to each other; not easy being on the same school track team. Ha ha ha

Central High Spring Track Highlights

2011-07-06T06:30:00.000-07:00

This is a video of CHS Spring track meet. I put it on YouTube but forgot to post it here and since I have not post anything in a while, I thought I would post this video from last year before posting anything related to this year's track meet. Enjoy Stay tuned for more!

Disclaimer: I do not own the copyrights and/or license for the song associated with this video. The ownership belongs to singer, Jamie Foxx and the production company J-Records label.

"Children of Children Keep Coming" digital poem

2011-02-22T18:56:00.000-08:00

I have been catching you all up on what I have been doing and I forgot one of the most important thing I have done all year in 2010 (in my own defense I had to wait for clearance to post this; didn't really forget ha ha). Any who, as I was saying, my boys and I got to play a major part in as actors, director and filming a digital poem with a wonderful woman, Mary Anne Sullivan, who was at the helm of it all. She also played a major roll in bringing it all together. She did all the editing, additional directing (my part was not as large as her's) and much, much more. It is an amazing piece of work that was written by a great man, Russell Goings. He attended a historical event in Washington, D.C., on October 16, 1995, The Million Man March.

http://law.jrank.org/pages/5251/Civil-Rights-Movement-Million-Man-March.html

He was so moved by the experience, it inspired him to write a collection of poems. Mary Anne Sullivan did a review of this book of poems on her website, "The Tower Journal"

http://www.towerjournal.com/.

Russell Going some how caught wind of this and track down Mary Anne. One thing lead to another and a digital poem was created. She asked me to assist to her. I happily agreed along with my two boys, Brandon and Christien. It also features others who are a part of this wonderful occurrence. I strongly urge you all to check it out and also read up on who Russell Going is as well. I foresee his book becoming a textbook for study in schools. It is "that" good and has that much meaning and purpose.

Learn and Enjoy!

A fortune cookie proverb; not really but should be

2011-02-16T17:24:00.000-08:00

"Respect is not defined; it's understood."

-Anita J.

You have to value the other person's opinion and feelings

in order to truly respect them not by how "you" WANT

to respect them.

There is a difference.

Short Story teaser

2011-02-13T14:55:00.000-08:00

This is a teaser illustration panels I have created for a short story I started working on last year while doing an assignment in my Illustration class. I learned a lot and had a lot of fun working while learning and doing the creations that have brought me to this point. It is my desire that I can share this joy with others.

So, let me know what you think? Leave a comment, be polite and share your thoughts or request, if you would like a custom Mr. Bubbles illustration.

- Anita J.

One of my many hobbies

2011-02-13T14:52:00.000-08:00

This is what I did during a break from life, school work and family life. Everyone has a past time paradise; this is one of mine. I finished it last night.

My New Endeavor

2011-02-13T14:44:00.000-08:00

http://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Place/303947884772

Teen House (information) Exchange Place

Is a place for children ages 14 to 18 (possibly 21) to meet, share, get information, associate with their peers and most of all have fun. There are tons of places for children 13 years of age and under like day camps, after school programs and the likes but there is nothing for our teens.

THE PLACE is somewhere young adults can go to be among their peers. They can comfortably get help without being inhibited by the embarrassment or frustration of working with an adult who may not “get” them or unfortunately not available like the working single mom, dad, grandparent or guardian.

The Place provides an atmosphere where children of their own age can get a more in-tuned, unbiased and reliable reference to information like driver education experience (and school referrals), places accepting employment in their age category, events, sports camp and where to purchase sport gears, school supplies and clothing (on sale or the preferred trend that maybe hard to find).

The place is also a good source for employers (including moms looking for baby sitter), parents and businesses can look for potential hires. We at The Place would require potential employers to absorb the cost to provide back checks and also provide reference to us so we and the teen’s parents can be assure us all that the potential employer is a safe, secure and enjoyable place to work.

The Place would be staffed by both volunteers and employees that have either graduated, participated and/or work at places of interest to the teens i.e. college graduates, seniors and juniors from their school (or college of interest) along with professionals. This way the teens and young adults have someone to turn to for advice that has actually walk a mile in their shoes and/or can assist them in how to prepare, study or gain beneficial knowledge to help with school, college & university or driver’s education and obtaining meeting driver’s license requirements. The Place is also a location where teens can gather to have planned, safe and organized fun, hang out or get assistance with school work, college entrance, study for their SAT and similar test, seeking employment or dealing with the obstacles and hardship of being a teen or young adult in this current day and age.

The Place would have link game systems for multiple play enjoyment, computer with Internet service, donated item to help those who would like to participate in sport but cannot afford the equipment. There would also be (hopefully) donated vending machines with proper food choice items so parents have the assurance their children are consuming healthy snack and beverages when away from home at an affordable cost.

The majority of cost at The Place we are hoping can be generated sponsorships, donations, fund raisers and through a nominal membership fee, the use of the vendor machine, event cost like a GameStop sponsored gaming event i.e. game tournament, gaming promotion event like a small scale E3 www.e3expo.com along with other sponsored events and fundraisers. The last resort would be grant funding from large corporations that would require the creation of a board which would result in the control, vision and direction of The Place being taken out of the hands of those who have work so hard to create it and to minimize outside involvements that may want to influence the mission of The Place in way that would truly benefit those who need it most, the youth of our future.

The Place would also have their own organized charged events like an annual New Years bash where children could gather to enjoy the approaching New Year while playing fun filled games, competitions and tournaments while bring in the New Year freeing their parent(s) and/or caregivers to also enjoy the New Year.

Another option for fund raising would be to rent out tables for surrounding residents to use for yard sales in a more central and high traffic count area oppose their own property where it maybe hard or impossible to do. We are also hoping that given our strong contribution to the community that the town, business and its schools will help support the development, prosperity and growth of The Place.

The Place will also have a website and blog with a forum where teens can befriend and associate with other teens their age across the globe willing to chat, share and exchange.

Childhood Passion Re-visited: Illustration & Art

2011-02-13T14:12:00.000-08:00

As a child I would spend my mornings lying on the floor in front of the television watching one of my favorite shows, "The Joy of Painting" hosted by Boss Ross. As I got older, I had forgotten how much I love to draw and was not able to practice the art. I have recently rekindled my love of drawing and have begun to build a gallery of those creations on a website meant for showing casing and sharing my love with others. It can be viewed here:

http://esbest.deviantart.com/gallery/

A must needed break

2011-02-01T15:35:00.000-08:00

Hello everyone!

I have been gone for sometime. I had some computer issue, medical (health related) and personal ones that has kept me away for quite a while but I am back!

I have several thing to update everyone on and I am not sure where to begin so I will start with the most recent and work my way back over time. I would not want to bombard you with too much too soon and overload anybody's circuits. Ha ha just a little computer joke but don't worry. I do plan on keeping my day job and not taking up stand up or should I say, online comedy, as a career choice.

Any who. Here is the skinny. I have returned to school and have been at it for a couple of years now. I am doing a dual major in Graphic Design and Small Business Management. During that journey have re-ignited my love for art and primarily illustration. I took a class called 2D design where I learned how to take my drawings and used a software program called Photoshop CS5 to create two dimensional characters and work. I have also since used it to more quickly and efficiently colorize my work. I have since, under the influence of a classmate, created an online gallery of the work I have done thus far and the work that may still remain in progress as well. If you would like to take a peek at my gallery, please feel free to do so by clicking on this link: http://esbest.deviantart.com/gallery/

The other cool thing I have been doing is working on a project. I have been working on it for quiet a while actually but I was given the opportunity to bring to the attentions of other and get assistance as it had became a class assignment to put together a marketing package for it during the last semester while attending a business class with a study in advertisement.

I know have a logo, flyer and Facebook fan page for my project. You can learn more about it by reading about "The Place" on Facebook. http://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Place/303947884772 The logo is profile image. I will also create a website for it. The best thing ever since its inception is when I ran into a computer specialist friend at the store one day who asked me what I had been up to later. I filled him in on my project. He told me once I get a location for it, it would give me all the help I need on the computer end. He will provide free server service and also help me in getting high-quality computer for a fraction of the cost. I am super phych now to get the ball really rolling. I have found a few potentials. Now, I have to do some research and writing some letter to see if I can possibly have preferably my first choice location, donated for The Place.

Okay, let's see, hmm. What else have I been up too? Well, I have been to a lot of school sporting events. My boys are a lot older and participating in various sports and activities at school. This past summer they were both on school football team, which did amazingly well. The team won the City championship. My oldest son, BJ is also a member of the school's track team this past Spring and now participating on winter track team. This year his younger brother, CJ has joined him, who is also a member of the winter track team. He is one of the fastest sprinters on the team.

I have some images on my new online photography gallery at www.at-e.smugmug.com. I have also added a lot of other photographs of some wonderful places, events and artwork...you might wanna swing by and take a gander at that as well.

See! I told you it would be a lot if I tried to list it all at once. But don't you fret. This is not even the half of it. There has been a whole bucket load of thing going on over here. I will leave with this nice big plateful for the time being, okay.

Well, take care. If you are like me living anywhere along the path of this massive ice and snow storm blowing across the U.S, please be safe, stay warm and enjoy it if you can. I do have some school work to do but I decided to take a break, update my blog for all you wonderful folks out there and now I am off to make myself a nice hot cup of cocoa.

Tried Something New

2010-06-27T13:10:00.000-07:00

Well, I've always wanted to try it and today was the day. I finally went kayaking for the very first time ever! I had a wonderful time and captured some nice shots too. I only wish the beavers were active; no sighting of them today. Sad face. Maybe next time.

My Heros

2010-06-06T13:04:00.000-07:00

They say the children of this world are our future. Here are my two heros.

The World's Hero(s)

2010-06-06T12:45:00.001-07:00

They say the children of the world are our future. Well, here is my choice of hero(s) for the world. ;-)

NY City Tour

2010-05-29T22:47:00.000-07:00

I got to tour New York City this week and captured some wonderful images. Here is a sample of them.

The Chrysler Building and the George Washington bridge seen in the distance

The Met Life Insurance building made famous in the Godzilla movie

Ground Zero

The city building with indoor Palm tree where Ground Zero could be seen above the fenced parameter

A beautiful architect bridge seen on the ride through NY state via the tour bus window

Iron Baby

2010-05-27T21:30:00.000-07:00

I follow Ashton Kutcher on Twitter where he post this link. It is extremely well done video and also extremely funny!

I hope you enjoy it as much as I did.

BJ's Awesome Track Meet: "He's A True Winner!"

2010-05-24T10:24:00.000-07:00

Molly & Friends

2010-05-24T10:14:00.000-07:00

A Lasting Memory; Molly

2010-05-13T18:28:00.000-07:00

There's no jiggle from her collar,
no rattling from her crate;
getting comfortable as a fall asleep.
There's no shadow following my every footstep
close behind me like a heartbeat.
There's no head rested on my leg
with big brown eyes looking up at me...
waiting for me to move
to starting playing some kind of game
and throwing a toy
creating the clatters of sharp toenails
hitting the wood floor in a rythmatic kinda of beat;
with a hurry and a quickness
so fast and so sweet
making everyone laugh with a chuckle of her sliding,
bumbing and banging against whatever along her path
and body meet.
NO nuisance or annoyance that's part of her; its sweet.
Just all the memories of my baby, the boy's sister;
a part of our family...a part of me.
A whole of Molly Johnson, our dog
We shall no longer see.

"We will always love and miss you, Molly!"
You've burneds lasting images into our memories.

"Feeling Unappreciated?"

2010-04-25T08:47:00.000-07:00

I got a email forwarded to me one morning, it was intended to brighten my day, I hope it does the same for you too.

Good reading
Feeling unappreciated?

Things got ya down? Well then, consider these...In a hospital's Intensive Care Unit, patients always died in the same bed, on Sunday morning, at about 11:00 a.m., regardless of their medical condition. This puzzled the doctors and some even thought it had something to do with the supernatural. No one could solve the mystery as to why the deaths occurred around 11:00 A.M. Sunday, so a worldwide team of experts was assembled to investigate the cause of the incidents. The next Sunday morning, a few minutes before 11:00 A.M. all of the doctors and nurses nervously waited outside the ward to see for themselves what the terrible phenomenon was all about. Some were holding wooden crosses, prayer books, and other holy objects to ward off the evil spirits.. Just when the clock struck 11:00, Pookie Johnson, the part-time Sunday sweeper, entered the ward and unplugged the life support system so he could use the vacuum cleaner.
Still having a bad day??? The average cost of rehabilitating a seal after the Exxon Valdez Oil spill in Alaska was $80,000.00. At a special ceremony, two of the most expensively saved animals were being released back into the wild amid cheers and applause from onlookers. A minute later, in full view, a killer whale ate them both.

Still think you are having a Bad Day??? A woman came home to find her husband in the kitchen shaking frantically, almost in a dancing frenzy, with some kind of wire running from his waist towards the electric kettle. Intending to jolt him away from the deadly current, she whacked him with a handy plank of wood, breaking his arm in two places. Up to that moment, he had been happily listening to his iPod.

Are ya OK now? - No? Two animal rights defenders were protesting the cruelty of sending pigs to a slaughterhouse in Bonn, Germany. Suddenly, all two thousand pigs broke loose and escaped through a broken fence, stampeding madly, trampling to death the two helpless protesters.

What?!? STILL having a Bad Day??? Iraqi terrorist Khay Rahnajet did not pay enough postage on a letter bomb. It came back with 'Return to Sender' stamped on it. Forgetting it was the bomb, he opened it and was blown to bits. God is Good!

There now, feeling better?

Cool jazz session!

2010-03-22T16:40:00.000-07:00

http://tinyurl.com/ydg7bj8

"Uniqueness at its best in action"

2010-03-21T07:44:00.000-07:00

All Parent, grandparents and childcare individuals!!!

2010-02-09T06:07:00.000-08:00

A very serious MUST READ for anyone who is around small children. Please keep your small one safe from accidential fatal poisioning TODAY!!!

http://www.snopes.com/medical/toxins/sanitizer.asp

Sneak Peak

2010-02-03T20:25:00.000-08:00

Here is a peek-a-boo of the family portrait shot last Sunday, January 31st. Great family, good time. Enjoy folks!

I Love My Job!!!

2010-01-31T06:48:00.000-08:00

I had the great opportunity to shoot a family just before Christmas. As soon as I got inside, this is the first thing I saw..."Ah!" His mother said he felt asleep underneath the Christmas tree. Children are so precious.

Wintry shots

2010-01-11T16:47:00.001-08:00

I did want the best to be last but google-blog is not cooperating so umm, yeah. Awesome black and white of CJ covered in snow clinging to his eye lashes. He so handsome! Momma baby is becoming a man (sniffle, sigh). happy face.

Christien is covered head to toe in snow! He was nice enough to come get me knowing I would want the shot before he shook it off after helping clear the driveway.

Christien was out clearing the driveway but the wind was not working in his favor.

"Inspiring work!"

2010-01-07T12:41:00.000-08:00

I am always in awe to see how something is done. I like to work with my hands and see other do the same.

"I wanna go outside!"

2010-01-07T11:10:00.000-08:00

My poor dog Molly and I take lots of walks with a neighbor across the street, in warmer weather, to the pit and other locations. So much so, she gets excited when she our friend outside. On this particular day, her and her husband were outside clear snow of their cars and off their driveway. Molly cannot understand that they are not going for a walk. She just know, people outside, my pack friends will go walking and "I" want to go too!

She got glued to the window watching them, wagging her tail and anxious to be out there. I had to get the shot!

2010-01-03T21:24:00.000-08:00

Unforgiveness = Self Destruction

-David Jay, Jan. 2010

"Resolve to be different, to be better than you were

last year and exceed you own expectations."

-aj

Wintry Blast of Beauty

2010-01-03T09:21:00.000-08:00

Although I was born in New England, I am not always a fan of the low temperatures but I am a huge fan of how beautiful the snow blanket everything in a white dust of wonder! We got pounded this weekend and here are some of the shot I took.

Funny Saturday Morning

2010-01-03T08:39:00.000-08:00

I was in my kitchen when just out of sight I saw a black bird duck behind the tree. I didn't think much about it. I thought it was just another Raven carrying a red wrapper. I went on about my business when I notice something kept ducking in and out from behind the tree as to play peak-a-boo with me. So I decided to watch the tree and see what was going on because it clearly was not a Raven. I waited and waited only catching a glimpse but never enough to identify what kind of bird it was. It was kinda funny how it would duck out from one side of the tree, then back. Duck out from the other side of the tree and then back again. Finally, it occurred to me that the bird may have seen me as well. I was standing there in plain view with a deep red plush robe. I took it off and put on a darker jacket (it was still cold; I turn up the heat but it would take a while before the house got warmer). I carefully went back to the window and finally my luck and patient paid off. I could see it was a large woodpecker. I never saw one so large. It is about size or little bigger than a pigeon. I slip out of sight and went to get my camera. Fortunately for me the woodpecker was still there doing its little peak-a-boo on the tree which I now know to be him looking for a spot to home- in on to bore into in search for food.

This is a Pileated Woodpecker. The closer shot is the male and thanks to Molly, my dog, who was looking up, I also got a shot of his female companion sitting higher in the same tree upstair from my bedroom window.

It was pretty cool sight for Molly and me.

@Robie's Hooksett, NH

2010-01-01T21:00:00.000-08:00

Our Small Business Class spent our last class at Robie's diner eating breakfast, sandwiches and sharing our finals; business plans while enjoying hearing about the history that contributed to creditation to the landmark it has become. Here are the pictures from that day in a slideshow uploaded to YouTube to share with the rest of the class.

"Hap-py, New Year!" "Ev-very-bod-y"

2009-12-31T18:41:00.000-08:00

If you have not been to my blog or not have seen any recent messages at all, I am writing you on this day, to give you in my own special way, a wish full of love and cheer for a very special and happy New Year!

Not just for today or for the next night but hoping things goods for the rest of your life. For you and yours and all those who surround you, near and far close or associated with you.

May all your days and nights be keep you well, safe from all dangers and far from any form of hell. Full of smiles and healthy days with lots of sun even on rainy dazes.

Share a chuckle, a laugh, a good strong one with tears so that every day for the rest of your days can always be a happy New Year!

Goof-ball boys, gotta love 'em

2009-12-19T13:46:00.000-08:00

Before it got too cold, the boys and I took our dog for a walk, on the way back they stop to for me to get a short of them to use for their FaceBook profile and came up with this silly pose.

"Good Book!"

2009-12-19T12:59:00.000-08:00

I found this amazing book at the grocery store yesterday and I had to buy it. I snatch it up for a good price with a hardcover. "Sweet!"

Word of The Day

2009-12-19T12:56:00.001-08:00

I was told these words recently and I think they are words to live by. I am going to try to remember them always.

"...I eve see if the glass is empty that means I can get more!"

Steven Wilkie

Finals & last day of Drawing class

2009-12-16T15:08:00.000-08:00

Today was the last day of my college drawing course. Here are some really awesome self portrait (our final assignment) done by some classmates. Pay particular attention to the last two, they have produced continuously amazing work throughout the semester. I have sought their advice myself. The last image is of the self portrait with "300" movie helmet I have really admired his work, in fact, the entire class has admired his level of skill. Great guy and wonderful work. He shared his dad's website with the instructor, who is also an accomplished artist. I was able to see the website too. I was really flattered when he admired work I had done. It really boost my confidence. I was excited to have a drawing course as a requirement for my degree but "man" am I glad the semester is over! I learned a lot but it was really, really hard work. I did learn a lot both from the instructor and from seeing other's work and listening to how they did it.

Snowy Morning

2009-12-06T09:10:00.000-08:00

I woke up early Sunday morning, took my dog, Molly out to use the bathroom and shot this picture with my cellular telephone. It was before the sun came out later giving just the right light; not blowing out the snow with the reflective light it would has shown against the white surface. You can see where the large pine kept part of the ground protected from the cold of the last night's fallen snow.

Ink Wash school assignment

2009-11-28T20:50:00.000-08:00

As part of my Graphic Design course requirement, I am taking a drawing course. This week we had to do what is called an Ink Wash. It similar to watercolor, in fact, some regard the two to be one-in-the-same. However, the difference is you use water soluble paint doing watercolor but you use water soluble ink, the same that can be use for caligraphy, to do an ink wash. I have never done it before. It is very interesting to say the least. You primarily use paint brushes but can also use other items. I used different items in addition to the various paint brushes like paper towel sheet, a sea sponge, cardboard and a plastic tooth pick.

We had to do a black and white landscape as an ink wash medium. I re-created an old photograph taken by idib, inc back in 1983 of a man who appears to walking with a cane in the woods or a park wearing a long coat and top hat.

Here is the final production (above) and the original photo (below).

Enjoy!

Anita

Gotta Love the Muppets...bring back the muppets pls!

2009-11-28T09:25:00.001-08:00

Yahoo had an article on the home page about the Muppets hitting a high on YouTube with this musical performance. I have always been a fan. I just had to share.

Enjoy!

The Last Hoorah! Farewell to Sam & Maggie

2009-11-22T23:03:00.000-08:00

Hello Everyone,

I have posted and uploaded images of Sam & Maggie both dogs who take walks with my dog, Molly. Unfortunately, Same and Maggie left to go back to their original owner, who raise them from little puppies. So Pauline and I took my boys and the pack for one last outing to the pit area. Here are some of the images to remember their last day together.

Word Of The Day

2009-10-26T17:01:00.000-07:00

I attended a meeting today at school where there was a guest speaker who made a very good statement for the word of the day.

"The obstacle in front of you is only as big as you see it."

Germano Martins

October Wedding 2009

2009-10-26T15:55:00.000-07:00

Shot a wedding in New Durham, NH. During the break between, I was talking to a guess with a child who's face I just had to be photographed...I mean just look at him! He's so adorably sweet!

The bride was dressed beautifully in this amazing custom-made gown!

"Ooh, what do we have here!" said the best man.

Wedding Sneak Peak Trish & Tim

2009-10-16T07:19:00.000-07:00

I shot a small wedding in New Durham, NH. I had a wonderful time and meet some really great people. Here is a sneak peak of the fun.

Richard, the DJ of Kowboys Karaoke, did an amazing job getting everyone on dance floor. He and his beautiful wife, Sue, had couple's playing game I have never seen. You had to figure out how to get out of the tangle lines. (whisper) "I know the secret." Richard told me. Tee Hee.

"Zonic BoooM!"

2009-10-13T17:15:00.000-07:00

In spite of my having pneumonia, I insisted we take our energetic dog, Molly for some much need burn off. The boys decided to have some fun while we were out there. This is a good replacement/update to the current picture at the top of the blog.

Word of The Day

2009-10-13T17:10:00.000-07:00

"To the world you maybe one person, but to one person you maybe the world."

- a fortune cookie

"Got Her!!"

2009-09-29T10:43:00.001-07:00

"Boo-yah!" It took some doing but I finally got some pictures of my dog, Molly. She is a mostly black and white, Border Collie and labrador retriever mix. If you have been following previous threads where I mention Molly but had not gotten any picture, it is because she is ALWAYS running around. I have pictures of Molly's pack friends that she goes with on regular outing to the infamous pit I constantly referred to so many times before. Well, she a huge ball of energy and hard to catch sitting still but I did it. Here they are of her along with my son, Brandon, running beside her along the pond's edge. I also have a nice reflective shot of The Pit among other pictures of Molly and the gang. "Whew!"

Enjoy

Quote of The Day

2009-09-21T05:53:00.000-07:00

Hey folks,

I got another quote from a classmate today, in fact, I got a few. But seeing how this is called, "Quote of The Day", we can only use one.

Here ya go.

“Success = Strategy + Execution”

Man (& Woman's best friend)

2009-09-17T10:37:00.001-07:00

My friend Pauline and I, took our dogs out to what we refer to an area called "The Pit". Pauline now has, with the recent addition of Sam; four dogs to my one named Molly. I got some nice shots of her dogs including Sam, the white with spots, Pit Bull. But I have yet to get a good shot of Molly. She spends a lot of time, I mean a whole lot of time, running all over the place. She NEVER sit still. Unless it's to get a treat and even then she doesn't sit still for long. So she is the only one that is not in this set of photos.

There is always next time. "There will be a next time." I will get her.

I am patient.

*from top to bottom: Maggie, Belle, Maggie again, Chase, and Sam.

Father n Daughter

2009-09-16T13:49:00.000-07:00

I saw this father and daughter at the balloon festival in Hillsborough, New Hampshire, July 2009. I thought they were a great subject matter for some shots. The dad was gracious enough to let me take their picture(s). I gave him my card so he could later view them on my blog but my laptop crap-out before I could. It has been some months now but I am hoping the dad has not given up on me and will still check back to see the images.

Boston Skyline: Harbor Point

2009-09-16T13:21:00.000-07:00

Lost Email

2009-09-16T13:13:00.000-07:00

Took these pic of a couple of brother ice fishing way back in 2006. I was going to email them copies but lost their email address. It has haunted me ever since. So, if you see a couple of brothers ice fishing on lake in Dover, NH on route 9, drop me a line.

Thanks

(no, really, ya never know, drop a pebble into the water and it creates ripples, word may get around enough) ;)

Images from my own archives

2009-09-16T13:03:00.001-07:00

I decided to dig into my archives to show some of my old work that will going into my gallery for sale. Here is a sneak peek!

Quote Of The Day

2009-09-09T12:24:00.000-07:00

"Pain is temporary, but
Regret is forever."
Nick Illopoulos

During my Small Business Management class this past Tuesday morning, a fellow student had made this statement while the instructor was going around the room asking volunteers from the divided group of student to speak about a failure they experience and what they learned from it. This great quote was part of his story.

I felt compelled to use it but I wanted to give credit where credit is due.

It can be applied to so many scenarios in life as well as business.

"Thanks for sharing Nick!"

The Story of "The Flower"

2009-09-06T10:40:00.000-07:00

"The Flower"

As we pass through this world
sharing space and time with others...
Pain can be felt as a result of the separation from others.

Torn away like a rip piece of paper.

Sometimes our pull cause the tear
Sometimes we're pulled to a tear

No matter the reason; good or bad
it still causes some pain.

We spent time with people
We spent time with others
We give our time; a piece of ourselves is left with them.

But like "The Flower" that grows
every year; loosing a petal,
had a pruning along it stem
loosing some leaves...

Whatever piece is lost
Whatever petal drops
Whatever wind blew, harsh sun or cold rain.

It will grow back...in time.
Time "does" heal all wounds.
But a flower, even wild, stills need care.
"The Flower" needs to take care of itself.
The roots need to be deep for water and nutrients.
"The Flower" bends toward the sun for its benefit.
Its survival.

Whatever friends you loose.
Marriage that ends.
A piece of you was left & lost with them.
But like the The Flower,
growing stronger by the hour...

a little at a time
a little over time
but it "does" get stronger...
over time.

Let the season past
allow the pieces lost to be gone
allow yourself to move on.

"The Flower's" strength comes from
its resilience. It wants to grow.

You have to "want" to grow.
You have to "want" to move on.
You have to "want" to be strong.

Like "The Flower".

Help, if you can

2009-09-05T11:43:00.000-07:00

Hey all,

I have a friend on Facebook, who is acquainted with someone in California that had property stolen. Here is the tweet from twitter:

joshnewtonphoto=( just had $9,000 worth of camera equipment stolen out of my house yesterday... pls re-Tweet and keep a look out at pawn shops and online =(

If you're a Twitter can pass it along, that would be great! If not and just could pass the word along to pawn shops that you know, that would help too. It was $9000 worth of photographer's equipment that a lot of us are trying to help this person find.

Thanks all

2009-09-02T11:37:00.000-07:00

"So how do you flush this new fangle bowl,Chase?"

"Oh, my gosh! You should have seen the look on your face!"
"Did you REALLY think I would!"
"Ooooh, hooo, hooo, wooo, hooo!"

Balloon Festival July 2009

2009-09-02T11:32:00.000-07:00

I have been trying to get to this balloon festival the past three years. I finally got to go this year! It was a nice experience. I have other shot on another memory card I need to add (I promised the models; a father & daughter who were visiting)..."stayed tuned."

Here comes the Paaain!!!

2009-09-02T11:24:00.000-07:00

I was an escort for my son's class visit to a water park in Salem, NH where I got these editted (I had enough to make a movie clip, if I wanted) images. Watch the girl in the blue shirt on far right whom, I am guessing, NEVER saw this ride before.

Laughter Rx

2009-08-24T15:07:00.000-07:00

Laughter; a natural multi-purpose rememdy for
pain, weight-loss,lack of muscle tone
and complimentary to enjoyment;
easily obtained without prescription.

It is also a drug-free way to feeling good.

They come in all doesages (listed in strength from weaker to strongest)

Smile Maker: spontaneous inner glow shown in the form of human facial expression & LOL's online text.

Chuckle(s): small incremental burst.

Actual Laugh Out Loud: spontaneous audio as oppose to a Smile Maker. It is stronger than a "Chuckle" but weaker than "The Belly Laugh".

The Belly Laugh: stronger than an Actual Laugh and more genuine than a Chuckle.

The Brought-to-Tears: an explosive, compulsive and uncontrolling continuous laugh that literally brings a you to tears and can be often followed by high pitch squealing.

Taken as needed but necessity not required.

Estello's Best yet

Updated pics of the boys

2009-08-17T10:56:00.000-07:00

Alrighty, it has taken a while (3 years to be exact) before I could get updated pictures of both my boys together but I manage to do it back in May while we were hiking a trail. "Whew!" They not so incline to get their pictures taken anymore; "teens." LOL

Christien in concert June 2009

2009-08-17T10:49:00.000-07:00

Christien had a concert at school. This is the last of the images of I have him before graduating from the middle school. My baby can't be called my baby anymore. He will be moving onto high school with his big brother.

"....and so it begins."

Boston Science Museum

2009-08-17T10:45:00.000-07:00

"Gotta love Beantown!" Back in June. I went into town to visit a friend but had to take a detour, while I waited, I thought I would make the most of my time by capturing a shot of the famous Science Museum on the Charles River near the Boston Esplande.

Flowers for Liz

2009-08-17T10:39:00.000-07:00

A good friend of mines loves photos of flowers. Although, we don't live in the same state making it hard to give her flowers in person, the wonderment of the internet has made it possible to share them in another way with her and others.

Here you are Liz.

Celebration in Antrim, NH

2009-08-17T10:34:00.000-07:00

There was a lot of fun & love at my friend's, Cordelia. They were celebrating a birthday, anniversay and include a friend's celebration; all rolled into one great time for everyone!

Comments welcomed

2009-07-26T00:08:00.001-07:00

These were test shots taken recently. I was considering using them on Facebook but I am my own worst critique. So, I would appreciate comments (opinions) from others. The photos themselves came out great but my impression of myself "in" the images is not very confident.

"Hang On"

2009-07-06T11:47:00.000-07:00

The hard-knocks are hollow,
you can break through.

A Speedy Recovery Wish for Paige

2009-06-22T10:35:00.000-07:00

This poem was created for Paige, a family member of a close friend, recovering from a very bad car accident.

This poem is very true to the heart.I wanted to share it with others in place of my "Quote of The Day".

"The beauty that we have inside,
spread open wing like a butterfly.

Is magnified and shines so bright
by the love of family that survives any plight."

*credit to my son, Brandon, who help me come up
with the last words "...that survives any plight."

My laptop has been on the fritz, so as much as I would like to add an image with this poem for a digital get well card for Paige & her family, I unfortunately at this time am unable to do so.

Quote Of The Day

2009-06-16T04:59:00.000-07:00

"Love can't grow under a microscope."

Rather than worry about what "could" go wrong,
focus on the good that keeps bringing you together
filled with laughter, love and life.

Nature & Irony

2009-05-20T15:02:00.000-07:00

I saw this beautiful scenery which was also very funny. Check out the snow mobile sitting amongst the daisies.

Ialso found this tiny frog hidding out in the bushes while I was working in the yard. I headed inside, grab my camera hoping he would still be there when I got back and low-n-behold to my greatest satisfaction; he was. I wasn't so lucky with a miniture size moth that resembled a monarch. "Boo hoo."

2008 Fiscal Year images-Awesome template

2009-05-18T21:06:00.001-07:00

A good friend let me have a great disc with new templates to use with my images to create these one of kind creations. A little tweek here, some changes here & there and well-la! Side note: credit is due to Graphic Authority, the creator of the original template(s).

Hello my web neighbors,

I am sorry I have been out of sorts. I had full plate overflowing with "to-do's"; moving, going back to college-again, helping the children adjust and everything in between. I finally buckled down after final to put together a collect of choice images above from last year weddings...more will follow along with a slideshow on my website at www.estellosbest.com very soon.

Enjoy

Wintry Times

2009-01-14T14:25:00.000-08:00

Well, as promised (from Twitter) here are some shots from the snow storm (now one of many but at the time it was the first snow fall and a pretty big one too) in eastern state of New Hampshire. It can look so beautiful but it can cause so much unrest. I took a few. However, this really cool one of my son holding this massive icicle was actually taken today. The others were taken at a different time.

Two Seasons In One Day!

2008-11-22T22:28:00.000-08:00

Alrighty,

How's everyone doin' today. For those of us in the colder climates, you know the cold weather's coming when you experience two seasons in one day. I went out to shoot a wedding today and it was a fairly nice out around the time we shot the wedding, but, by the time we were finishing up shooting some outdoor shots at the reception, you would have thought it was a different time of year! "Oh boy!" did the temperature drop and "I do mean DROP!" "sniff, sniff, goodbye Summer. I will miss you every so dearly." "Waaa!"

Bless The Little Children

2008-11-22T21:57:00.000-08:00

Hi folks,

Ya gotta love the little ones. I absolutely love to shoot children. You have to check out these adorable children at a wedding in Portsmouth, New Hampshire. The time of day made lighting a bit of a challenge but used in the right way, it can really make an images. It definetly did on this particular day. It made the children look like lil' angels.

Maine Wedding

2008-11-22T21:34:00.000-08:00

Hello, hello, hello. Anita here. I want to thank you for stopping by my blog today. In spite of the cold weather, New England is quite a wonderful place. It is magical and an especially beautiful backdrop setting for weddings. I shot a really nice couple who were married at cute little place in Maine. Amazingly enough, it was not that cold on that particular day which work out great because some of the images were shot on the a beach not too far from the venue for the wedding & reception.

I had a really good time. Here is just a small sampling of what was shot that day.

Enjoy

RPL Knitter's club

2008-11-22T19:40:00.000-08:00

In between weddings, I volunteered my time, so I could meet with a wonderful group of gals twice a week to socialize, have a laugh and possibly make new friends while knitting and crotcheting for various charities. The total tally was over 1,000 items that were created, donated and ship out around town to shelters, food banks, hospitals and many more to help others in need including our homeless furry friends. So they too could be warm and have a happy holiday this year. In the picture above is the beautiful lady who arranged it all being interviewed for the local paper, Doris Breton. She was wonderful person.

I was glad to be a part of it and look forward to do it again next year.

Fun at The Red Barn

2008-11-22T19:18:00.000-08:00

"The DeFranzos really know how to have some serious fun...seriously!" There was some real movin' and grovin' at the ole barn tonight.

I had a great time shooting their wedding and they were an amazing group of people.

Quote of The Day

2008-11-22T18:27:00.000-08:00

There's family and then there's FAMILY. There's friends and then there's associates or acquaintances.

"We may not always remember everything about someone, but, always remember how they make you feel...good or bad, happy or sad, if they listen and if they were supportive...because when it comes down to it, its what REALLY matters most."

Adover, MA Country Club wedding

2008-10-30T16:00:00.000-07:00

I got to shoot this wonderful couple, their family and friends on Sunday, Octobert 19th, at this wonderful venue in Andover, Ma.

"BACK IN ACTION!!!"

2008-09-02T20:36:00.000-07:00

"Hey!" Check it out! I was out of comission for a while (I had major surgery) but I am well enough to get back in the action. I am fired up, rip, roaring and ready to go! Here is the lastest creations. Thanks for stopping by. Feel free to leave a comment.

Quote of the day

2008-08-24T18:49:00.000-07:00

"It's often said that the only difference between a professional photographer and an amateur photographer is that the professional throws more shots away. National Geographic magazine uses only 1 out of every 1,000 shots taken."
-Andrew Hudson, author of various photography books and the Photo Secrets How-to website

http://www.photosecrets.com/tips.p04.html

Summer Walk

2008-08-23T16:58:00.000-07:00

Hello All,

I had to take sometime off due to major surgery. I am hoping I will back to work next weekend shooting weddings and having a blast. In the meantime, I took a walk with my boys and shot a few images to shake off the rustiness that has undoubtly set in from being restricted to my home for the past five weeks. These are the images I captured on my walk. You can click on the image to see a larger version.

Enjoy and as always thanks for stopping by.

"Follow me to thebecker of the [b] school blog!"

2008-08-02T19:57:00.000-07:00

Follow me to http://twitter.com/home to the professor (thebecker), of the [b]school http://www.thebschoolblog.com/ . It is where photographer go to connect.

Details Matter

2008-07-27T18:39:00.000-07:00

I helped a very good friend of mine, best friend, in fact, shoot a wedding. Belive it or not it was my very first wedding shoot. I was nervous and anxious but actually it was very fun and I enjoy myself. It always amazes me how being in the right environment can play such a roll on an individual's disposition. It was a time of happiness, joy and beauty. As a result, you pick up on the vibe and can't help but feel be happy, enjoy and admire the beauty of it all. You almost loose yourself in the moment and forget how many hours you've been up planning, shooting, working and straining to capture that extra special day in all it's glory. But you do forget and forge on without a moment's thought or even consider being tired...until it's over. LOL I love my work. I love what I do. I absolutely love taking photographs but not just of weddings. I love animals, conservation and the human equation. I am at my very best when I am helping others and making them happy including animals. I love taking photographs with my photo buddy. He does some amazing work. Now, I do like my alone time. I don't know, call me a rare bird, an eagle flying high in the sky, soaring with the wind beneath my wings, alone with my thought but instead of preying on fish, I'd dive in to swim with them-love swimming- can't say I love being in open water (unless I am sailing) but give me a pool, lagoon or powder soft, sandy fresh water beach and I will be knee deep in it swimming. I got all this from my dad. The love of photography, swimming and flying. Flying is the one dream I have yet to fulfill. I never took a flying lesson. I have been up in a plane but I would like to be behind the driver's seat. Okay, okay, I strayed off topic, sorry. I wake up thinking primarily of photography. I tell people, "if you check my pulse its a camera shutter. So thanks for stopping by and checking out my blog. "Please, please, feel free to leave a comment. I welcome your comments. Come back again, again. If ya' go a question, that's cool too.

Getting There

2008-07-27T16:20:00.000-07:00

"Wow!" I'm getting there! It was really, really cool. I am mentoring under a local photographer, who was gracious enough to let me shadow him to learn hands-on what it takes to shoot a wedding. I am truly grateful and it is really fun. Funny thing, I was given the task of shooting the groom & the rest of the men gettting ready. Obviously, I was extremely nervous. I am always nervous and anxious when it comes to doing new and exciting things. I remember when I was in college how I would always be nervous the 1st day after the school break but that's another story. I walked into the house, getting introduce to everyone as they were emerging from a nearby room and "low in behold" my upstair neighbor from my apartment building was one of the groom's men. It was a funny suprise to see a familiar face. I took a family potrait of his family a few month earlier in the year. How does the saying go, "small world."

Pleasure Bay, S. Boston, MA

2008-04-30T23:19:00.000-07:00

Woo, hoo, baby!

I was really glad to catch some shots of Kite sufers and Wind sail surfers this past Friday on April 26. Especially since when I rode a couple buses and train coming all the way from out of state to try capturing some pictures last summer, I wasn't able to get any!

I give koodos to Chad, his friends and others out there doing their thing in such frigid temperatures. I barely manage to be out for the time I was on the shore taking pictures. I am imagine it had to a lot colder in the high winds with the occasional fall into the water as a result of those dying winds. "Well done, guys!"

I hope to see you all out there again on next visit into town.

The images here is just a small handful of what I am able to capture but I also have a slideshow of additional images at my website http://www.estellosbest.com/watersports/index.html.

Surfing the wind of Pleasure Bay, Boston, MA

2008-04-30T19:03:00.000-07:00

Woo, woo, baby

I caught some nice shots of some pretty cool guys catching air this past weekend on Friday, April 26th. I took pictures of Chad and some of his friends kite surfing. I also got some shot of three other guys windsurfing too. It was incredibly cold out. I give koodos to those guy enjoy their sport in such frigid water temperatures. I don't even think I was out for half hour shooting them. I tried get out there earlier when the sun was out but I waiting for sister. I gave up waiting and heading out to shoot some pictures. I was driving own the road when I saw kites gliding in the air and made an immediate detour praising myself for following my instinct to drive the road I had not originally plan on driving down to shoot the city scape skyline. I figure the skyline will always be there (the building won't be moving anytime soon, right?) but last year when I came all the way from out of town on a couple of buses and a train to shoot kite surfers only to see there was no one (winds weren't strong enough I guess but it was a beautiful day), I'd chose to go shoot the kite surfers. You can view it at slideshow on my website: www.estellosbest.com.

Enjoy and thanks for stopping by,

Anita

National Teenagers Pageant

2008-04-30T17:40:00.000-07:00

Hello Everyone,

It's been a while. I did some work for a non-profit shooting girls for National Teenager pageant winners and contestants. It was quite interesting venture. It has also been a lot of work, hence, the time offline for a while. But I am back and this was one of the many things I had been doing lately.

Thanks for stopping by

OpenSourcePhoto: Please help me solve this problem...#links#links

2008-04-01T14:25:00.000-07:00

OpenSourcePhoto: Please help me solve this problem...#links#links

Well, DJ it is quite simple, but, are you willing to do what is necessary, is the real question? You just have to choke on a game or at least a frame or two. Let a ball gutter. It's all 'bout the fun and socializing, right?... "Nah!" I know, I know. I'm not sure what you can do there, sweetie. I guess you're just gonna have to wing it and play it by ear. Don't do anything to drastic, I guess.

I know, I'll ask another guy (my 14 yrs hormone-ly charge and brutely honest, son, hold-on I'm calling my son into the room..). He said buy them dinner too. He's into having girls for friends now and wouldn't say something like "Destroy them all!" if he were playing Halo with his male counterparts. So he suggested buy them ice cream. I ask my son, "what about, buy them ice cream w/real ice in it (a small piece of jewelry, ha, ha, ha)? He just shook his head and said he had no idea. Sorry, D. I tried. But your friends would probably love my idea. ;-*

-your friend NH from the January superbowl seminar, Anita (who's still waiting to see the pic you took of us, by-the-way :-) You'll remember when you see my pic on my blog or website on the the About Us page).

drop me a line and see what I've been up to lately:

http://www.estellosbest.blogspot.com/

www.estellosbest.com

"Done, done & done'r!" Wooo Hooo!!!

2008-03-20T20:29:00.000-07:00

Today was my very last day at school. I am now a college graduate. The very first in my family. I have achieved the once thought unthinkable of goals. I have procastinated, put-off and doubted my ability to even go to college let alone finish. Every time I tried to move forward in life; life got in the way in some form or fashion. It was a long road and a very hard road. At times it seem like a very lonely dark tunnel I didn't think I would ever see the light of day shining through, showing me the way "but" with the love, help and support of my children along with my very close, supportive, and, very dear friend, John. I have arrived! It wasn't easy but here I am.

"Look out world, here I come!" I am a woman on a mission to fulfill a dream of acomplishments; laying a foundation for my children that shows them it can be done no matter the obstacles, a road to assist others while giving back to my community and with my partner in crime by my side, both of us volunteering, working, suceeding and proving the nay-sayers wrong; the possibilities are endless.

Thank you very, very much boys for your love, support and patience. Thank you too, John, my partner in crime, for being there for me. It made all the difference in the world and I love you all for it.

"Thank!"

Happy Birthday, Christien

2008-03-20T20:19:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday, my darlin'

You are my shining star. You are always there when I am feeling bad and you've always sense it even if I don't say anything, even when you were very young. You are the one that does his best to keep everyone together when things get bad. I love you and I appreciate your willingness to make things right when you've done wrong with your sincere apology. You are now a young man, who will achieve greatness in this world. You may not always have confidence in your abilities but I believe in you, honey. I know you will suprise everyone who has not seen in you what I see in you, a winning achiever, mediator and leader. Your artistry, writing skills, and knack for computers will take you very far in this world of technology.

Stay strong "elite"

The Incredible Edible Egg

2008-02-26T17:57:00.000-08:00

Well folks,

Here I am again, posting to blog again. Yesterday, I was shooting some images for potential condentenders for my portfolio and this wonderful image was created while working with great friend and photo buddy, John, "somebody had to hold that egg." It's a pretty cool shot. We're proud of it.

Happy Birthday, Brandon

2008-02-16T12:28:00.000-08:00

Well, my dear son, you are a year older and I am so very proud to watch you morph from a young child into a maturing young adult. You have come along way, sweetie. It's been a little rough going, as life often is for us all, but you have manage to keep your head above water; generally. "You do have your moments." You have a mass many caring friends along the way; friend that I hope you will remain in contact with to be there for you. As well as, for you to be there for them. keep on keeping on my dearest. As we both know, you will achieve greatness in this world. Your mearly being apart of it contributes to the changes that I know you create. You are a leader and not a follower. "You will make your mark in this world," I know it.

"Rock-on, Ubbr L3te!"

The Boys @ Their Very Best

2008-02-12T13:28:00.000-08:00

Christien during his football practice this past summer in July 07' hitting the grid iron. Then there is ,Brandon, doing what he loves best, playing a game. He looks just like one of those Halo characters he loves to play on the XBox game system except without all the gear. I guess somebody stole it and now he's seeking the ultimate revenge...total annihilation! LOL

"Luv my boys, they're my heart."

Pet Quarter hosting Dog training in Newington NH

2008-02-12T13:21:00.000-08:00

"A New Day"

2008-02-12T13:06:00.001-08:00

New Blog

2008-02-08T19:13:00.000-08:00

Hi,

My name is Anita of Estellosbest.com and I have just created my new blog. I am excited at this venture. A friend and I sat down and said, "what the heck, let's create a blog." So I did. Now, I have a blog on Open Source and I am on my way. Come on the way with me and check out my website at www.estellosbest.com. Drop a line, let me know what ya' think, okay. Thanks.
P.S I made this amazing slideshow and must give credit to David Jay for pointing me in the right direction to the software and it's creation.