Because Photography Isn't The Only Thing I Enjoy...

She's alive? Yes I'm alive. My computer got a little virus, hope I dont catch it! *cricket cricket* Right. Anyways, it came up with a virus and posting may be scarce. I have been pretty busy, Summer Camp, Family, Fun, Family again, and my mom's book release. *record scratches* What in the world are you talking about Iona?

Many of you may or may not know that my mom has been working on her Middle Grade novel. I am  excited to announce that on July 20th, her book is being published. It is a book for the ages 8-12. If you are older or even younger It will work amazing as a gift. The book is titled Born To Be A Dragon. Before I tell you anything more, you must know what it's about.

Do not meddle in the affairs of dragons, for you are crunchy and taste good with ketchup...


This is what Lord Edric wants you to believe. He will do anything in his power to see that humans never come in contact with dragons again. However, he doesn't plan for Meia, the foster child who dreams of dragons, believing they are real. Or Deglan, the ten-year-old dragon who bears the ancient mark that threatens everything Lord Edric has worked for.


Join these two unlikely friends as they discover the truth behind a legend so extraordinary it will alter each of their lives... forever.


Although it's awesome that this book is being published in only a few weeks, there is also plenty of prizes you can win! Each day, starting tomorrow (July 6th) over at my mom's blog is a scavenger hunt with things that you can win!

Here is just a sneak peek of the prizes you can win.

Those are just a few, and the grand prize is the most exciting, a Nook! It will come with a free certificate to buy Born To Be A Dragon to read on your new Nook. We are so excited to be holding a giveaway each day in honor of Born To Be A Dragon. Read about the rules and more info by clicking here. 

Along with the excitement of this Scavenger Hunt Book Launch, you can also pre-order a signed copy for $6.99 right now! Click here for details on how to buy. We need your help to get your family, friends, and your friend's families to buy. 

We are also looking for one blogger who will post about this Scavenger Hunt Launch and help us. If you are interested please let my mom know on her blog. Also, whoever is willing to help will get a free entry for the grand prize!

The book is coming on fast and we are scrambling around with last minute changes. We can't wait for the next few weeks of prizes and fun.

Thanks for taking the time to read this long post, my mom and I certainly appreciate it.

Spread the news! Born to be a Dragon is coming your way.

Summer Raindrops

Here in Colorado, Summer has a whole bunch of rain as well as heat. You guys remember that wonderful rose in the last post? You must know it looks more amazing with raindrops on it's petals.

1.

No readers, these are not artificial raindrops, these are nature made, beautiful raindrops.

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God's rain is awesome. Period.

Which do you like the best?

Lightroom 3 Presets

Before I start this post I must mention Maeve from Platinum Dream is having an amazing giveaway! Woo hoo! Sorry Maeve I didn't have time to devote a whole post to this! Enter here

May I just say, Lightroom 3 presets are breathtaking on some photos. This photo is semi blurry, but the preset makes it barely noticeable. I am going to show you a few different actions on the same photo.

Aged Photo :: Preset

This preset has a vintage feel to it. The soft pinks and the bokeh make it look whimsical.

Yellow Filter :: Preset

 This black and white preset really makes the photo look soft and welcoming. 

Bleach Bypass :: Preset

 This preset is my personal favorite. It makes a light peach color and a sharp focus.

Split Tone 1 :: Preset

 This preset stood out to me. It is a blue-yellow sort of color and it lets you feel the cold in the photo.

Look #4 (Black and White) :: Preset

You have to try some kind of black and white on a photo like this. This dark black and white preset helps the photo's DOF (Depth of Field) and somehow enhances the bokeh.

My Edit

This is my edit. I was going for something colorful, but not vibrant. 

SOOC

Finally, this is the SOOC (straight out of the camera) shot. I personally like it better than my edit.

Which preset is your favorite?

It's a zoo out there!

Actually a farm to be more specific.

Photo and Farewell

Photo:

Farewell:

I am leaving for camp today. A whole week of no internet, phone service, or electronics. (Camera's are allowed!)  I am glad. It will give me a break from everything. I will try to take a  bunch of photos and I hope you all don't miss me too much. *wink* When I get back, hopefully I will have lots of news, and pictures. Wish me a good time, and safe travels!

Where do they get their charm?

Why do the little ones get the charm? And most importantly, where?

Also if you could vote for my IHeartFaces photo, I'd appreciate it!

CLICK HERE! It's #62