Over a year to be exact. But, that's ok. I've been busy with our little one, who is growing rapidly.

Over the year I've made many improvements to my photography skills, including purchasing a new camera, laptop, and editing software. My friend was selling her Cannon Rebel XT at a steal of a deal, so I scarfed that up pretty quickly. With the help of a friend who also does photography, I purchased a used Cannon 200mm lens and a used double battery pack attachment. Total cost: $500. I also got a new MacBook Pro laptop. I love how easily I can arrange and view my photos. And, of course I needed new software, so I got a great deal on Adobe Photoshop CS3. I still can't figure out how to do a few things on it, but I'm hoping that someone at some point can teach me.

I know what you're thinking... I have all this cool stuff and haven't been taking much in the way of pictures. Well, at least I haven't been posting much. I'll try and get some posted. Maybe I'll try for at least 2 a day. That's what I did this evening. I think it's a reasonable goal. Not pushing myself too hard.

So, I guess just keep an eye out for anything new.

Well, it's been a little while since I've been on here, but for good reasons...

Bart and I had our beautiful baby boy!

Maddock Bartley Darraugh was born on February 5th, 2008.

He weighed 9lbs 13.5oz and was 22in long.

We are all doing great. Bart and I are getting the hang of being new parents, and Maddock is just being a baby and doing what babies do best: eating, sleeping and pooping.

I have some pictures, so keep an eye out for them!

So, yeah.... it's been WAY too long since I've updated or posted anything. I suck.


Quick update on me and my absence:


My husband and I made a move to Okinawa, Japan and have been here for the past 7 months now. We've had a lot of adventures and challanges while being here.

The biggest news: We found out in June that we are expecting our little baby boy, Maddock Bartley. He should be gracing us with his presence sometime in early February. We can't be more excited!


My mother: She's still healing. Each day is a new day and a step closer to a full recovery. The recovery could take up to 2 years, so it's going to be a long road requiring much patience.


As for photos? Well, I've been taking some here and there, but nothing like I was before. I kinda went "tourist" mode for a while and so I have a bunch of average Joe pictures of the island. I guess I should get back on track with taking more pictures. I guess it would give me something to do in my down time, aside from hanging out with my friends...



Oh... and Bart... Yeah, you win. I think I'm gonna start getting into this again. *shush up!*

Well, I haven't been active on here, and for good reasons. My mother has undergone a massive brain surgery this past weekend and is in critical condition. I am home trying to help my dad and be support for him. I won't go into details about my mother, but there is hope that she will fully recover, but right now is the tough time. A time full of uncertainty and fear.

So, forgive me if my responses are short and few. I have a lot of things to do here that require my attention and commitment.

Prayers for my mother, my father, and my family would be greatly appriciated.

Thank you.

My husband is a Marine, and for the past week I've been visiting him on his base in NC. Last night, half of his unit deployed to Iraq. He didn't have to go because he deployed last year as an extra for a unit who needed some help.

We went to the farewell ceremony to see everyone off. I figured this would be a great time to get some photojournalistic shots. As I was taking pictures, I couldn't help but gravitate towards those Marines who are leaving a child behind. It's one thing to leave behind a wife... She is capable and strong. She will remember the Marine when he returns. They can pick up where they left off. But a child... a child who may be too young to remember him when he returns. A child who will grow and learn while he is away. First steps, first words.

I couldn't help but feel selfish for getting to keep my husband. If I could have, I would have offered him to go in place of a daddy or mommy. It seems so unfair, yet that is the nature of this game. You sign up to be a Marine and you know your going to go to war at some point. You can't put your whole life on hold just because of your job (although there are those out there who do).

Anyway... I think I captured some pretty great shots. I look forward to hearing opinions.

Enjoy!