Regardless, I am thankful for the wonderful things that happened this last year. I’m thankful for all the time I spent with my family and friends, the new people in my life, and my incredible clients who gave me a chance to do what I love to do. God put so much awesome blessings in 2012 and I cannot wait what he has in store for 2013.

Speaking of 2013, I was honored to kick-off the new year by photographing the Anthony family! This group of people were so kind for letting me take pictures of them in cold weather and being really open with my ideas, as a photographer, that means so much to me. It was so fun working with them, especially with the kids; I couldn’t help but smile at how adorable they were.  There was a point during the session where we had the kids scream “cookies” instead of “cheese” to get their attention, their excitement was seriously the cutest thing ever. Also, for those who don’t know, Mrs.Anthony is one of my favorite teachers from 8th grade, but more than that, she’s been a great supporter and friend. I can’t thank her enough for her words of encouragement.

Sandra has a been a good friend of mine for about two years now. When I think of her, I think of hard work, great advice, and her ability to transfer her cheerfulness onto others. Last weekend, I was honored to see another side of Sandra, I got to see her as the loving older sister. Getting to know her younger brother, Cesar, was also pretty amazing. They’re both beautiful people, and I thank them for showing me around their beautiful home. I told them I would some day retire there–after my success of traveling the world as a photographer, of course.

Here is a story about a sister and a brother.

In attempt of living out the harvest/autumn themed atmosphere, I tried (keyword, tried) making Ricotta Scones with persimmons home grown from the Montemayor’s very own backyard. My parents made fun of them because they sorta look gross, but regardless of presentation, it was gooooood stuff.

I also wanted to share another set of my Plant Project. So tonight we have an extra packed post. See you around!

Persimmon Ricotta Scones

Plant Project 3

For those who liked my Facebook page and follow my work and journey to be America’s Next Top Photographer (ahahaha), first of all, thank you. Second, last month I published the Holiday Sessions to be in action with a page regarding the information for those who are interested.  I finally found some time out to post that up on my website and you can view the details by clicking the banner below.

Last but not least, here are some moments earlier this fall with my family and close friends. I hope to see you all soon, especially since it’s that time of year where I want to photograph everything.

The following week, or last Tuesday, we biked around the park by the water and I was back shooting in a more familiar setting. 

I thought that it would be nice to start this post with some snap shots I took from my point-and-shoot while walking to my first day of junior year. It never ceases to amaze me how fast years go by. Before I get all nostalgic on this post, let me stop myself and just say how I am excited for this year. If you suscribed/liked my facebook page, I said I would blog about how I improved my schedule from last year so I don’t waste as much time this year- which gives me more photo taking fun time. This is my time saving secret: I stopped taking naps. Not just that, I took my nap time and turned it into productive homework time. So that’s it! I hope you weren’t looking for any helpful time management tips, unless you take naps like me, then you’re very welcome.

First day of school, it was awesome. Unlike my freshmen and sophomore days, I was more excited than nervous. I’m guessing it has everything to do with seeing who’s going to be in my classes and nothing to do with the class itself, except for AP English, it’s my last period and it’s a great way to the day. We recently started sharing what college we wanted to go to and our future careers as individuals. I’m always up for those kinds of conversation, I love hearing about a person’s endeavors, it’s pretty much what I talked about last semester with my chemistry lab group as we neglected our work-I’m kidding, I passed that class ok? Anyway, I haven’t been called on yet to share, and for the past few days, I’ve been shivering in my seat thinking up what to say and how to say it. Yes, I want to be a photographer, but the question about college is really indefinite for me and it’s frustrating at times because everyone has a straightforward answer. I’m more of the person who likes to think far into the future, way pass college, and into a happy career where I travel and sometimes relax outside my front porch with a slice of carrot cake as I overlook the sun setting on the horizon. I’m deciding whether or not I should erase that last part.

My family has been pretty busy this week. We’ve been spending special time with my Nanay (grandma) leading up to last night where we drove to the San Francisco airport and said farewell.

Here’s some of photos from yesterday.

Well, my summer vacation is coming to a close. Surely, it’s sad to think about not being able to sleep in for weeks on end, and not caring what I look like because I know I’ll be spending my day in front of my computer. Then there’s also the fact that this is my junior year, meaning academically it will probably be the hardest year thus far. Then that leads me to the thought of senior year- which automatically makes me think of life after high school. I think I just made myself sad. I’m kidding,in a way. So yes, not much to say other than that. I do have goals for this school year, but you know, it’s just the usual stuff; good grades, meet new friends, don’t get into trouble-which has never been an issue anyways.

OH YAH! Almost forgot. I’ve said this before on some social media sites, but I don’t think I’ve shared this on my blog, but if I was not into photography, I would definitely be a chef. First I need to learn how to use a knife without fearing it would fly out of my hands and into someone’s arm. Okay, go on.