Yes, we were there, for the #117 Boston Marathon 2013, for my husband to race his ultimate dream of fulfilling his bucket list goal of a lifetime. He is a marathon runner, who only runs marathons on Saturdays, and it can be difficult to find a marathon that isn’t on Sundays. Boston, is always held on Patriot Day, a holiday Monday, exclusive to Massachusetts. We came in a few days earlier to relax and take in the sites. He stayed behind to save his energy for race day, as I went about exploring Boston and Cambridge areas.

A bit of an oxymoron, I did ask the Italian tour guide, how safe it was to walk around the downtown core, he assured me it was, and even safer where we were, across the river of Boston, in Cambridge. “If I thought the Boston police were tough, I hadn’t seen the side of the Cambridge police, as they had the responsibility of protecting Harvard and MIT.”. I did indeed feel safe walking around and there were many tourist doing the same.

Saturday April 13, 2013, I spent the day and evening hours exploring the sites of this historical city. “The HideOut” I found many stores and restaurants, that were just like this, hiding out in the basement of the complex, every square inched used! I love the old buildings mixed in with the new, and some areas, have been there longer than any of us!

Love the old graveyards to visit, with Ben Franklin, “Mother Goose’ that wrote the nursery rhymes, Samuel Adams, one of the founding fathers, to the Night Rider, Paul Revere. Old Town Boston, also known as “Little Italy” is crammed full off long lines waiting for customers to taste the traditional italian food or desserts! I stopped in Modern Pastry, and had a delicious nougat caramel bar and a Neopolitan. I stopped a couple coming out of Mike’s Pastry, she had a red velvet cupcake and he had a chocolate chip canneloni, there is only so much I can burn off in calories in my walking around Boston, even though I would have loved to try them all!

The cobblestone streets, and amazing I didn’t trip with camera around my neck, it happens more often locally, and the public alley signs, made me laugh, as at first, I thought it was telling me, it was a “public alley”…but then I realized, each alley, is public and numbered, they keep track of them! Boston skyline at night, looking over from where we were staying in Cambridge, that’s part 2 adventure! Christina http://www.christinaparkerphotography.com

Matthew came into the world on a warm afternoon in August 2009 with a complete bilateral cleft lip and palate. 

His cleft was on the severe side and it quickly became apparent that the simple things that most take for granted would be a challenge.  Feeding Matthew was a challenge as he didn’t have the oral structure needed to suck from the breast or bottle.  He met with a team of specialists who from the day he was born created a treatment plan.  This plan included weekly hospital visits, weekly dental visits, an oral appliance (NAM-nasoalveolar molding device), and hearing tests which all led up to his first surgery, his lip repair in December 2009. During the 4.5 hour surgery his plastic surgeon fused the muscles in his lip, joined the three segments of his cleft together, lifted and shaped his flattened nose.  For the first time in his life, Matthew no longer had a cleft lip.  His wide smile was no longer and his new smile would be one that people wouldn’t stare at negatively or with pity.  Matthew started puréed foods at 6 months old like other babies his age.  With Matthew’s cleft palate he would often choke and aspirate the food that had entered his nasal cavity.  We stayed away from hard cereals or other typical teething food as pieces could and sometimes would get lodged along the side of his nasal passage.  Matthew did continue to have speech therapy and frequent dental care until his palate repair in September 2010 where the same plastic surgeon closed the gaping hole in his palate.

Matthew still has years of treatment which include bone grafting, orthodontic, and other facial surgeries but until then he is a thriving three year old who loves reading books, playing with his siblings, and most of all playing with his trains.  Matthew’s determination, will, and spirit continue to inspire those who work with him. ~post written by Amanda L. Matthew’s Mom!

With your donation of $24, 100% will go towards operation smile, to help repair other children across the world! You will receive 1, desk size print or a headshot image.   Can I count on your support April 4-April 6, 2013?  Please book your session time at www.christinaparkerphotography.com

In every culture around the globe, we all have this to offer, in one way or another. In some countries, if you don’t have the popular signature, a bag may be placed over it, to hide it, and you are cast out, because you don’t fit in! As a professional photographer, I recently joined the Professional Photographers of America (PPA). PPA is a non-profit international association and has existed since 1869. Why did I join? I am friends in a social media site with one of the directors for ppacharities, David Grupa, who is very respectful, and gives great encouragement to new photographers, he was promoting this campagain, and encouraged many to join in a great cause. As a children photographer in Calgary, Alberta, I felt strongly to support this great cause, to help restore those that have lost their signature, their smile!!

Since 2005, PPA charities, has teamed up with Operation Smile! The goal: to raise $100,000 to help provide as many cleft lip, cleft palate, and facial deformities surgeries as possible. How much are the surgeries? $240.

How is this to be done? As Professional Photographers, that is our goal each day to capture signatures, your stories and your personalites!
We agree to: donate our time, and our costs, to provide you with a mini portrait session & a desk size print or a facebook image.
We ask you to help us, with YOUR donation of $24. You really are the ones that help us, in restoring their smiles, as we can’t do this without you!!
Our goal, then is to try to book at least 10 photography sessions, which would cover the cost of 1 surgery. 100% of your donation goes directly to the cost of the surgeries!

Can I count on your support? I am so far, the only Canadian photographer, that has taken this step to join those in the US, for this great cause of “Celebration of Smiles”. My Sessions will run on April 5 & April 6. Contact Information, can be found on my website: If you are in the US, and would like to participate please find a participating studio near you. Please watch this video by Operation Smile, and perhaps you will also feel moved to changed someone’s signature for the better! Christina

Thank you for sharing your love with me during this past Valentine’s Day! Three of the children, that are shown in these portraits, are heart children. These three have had some BIG time complicated open heart surgeries. One of these children, is waiting for a heart transplant! 12 years ago, having my own heart child, that had open heart surgery at just 6 weeks of age, I can relate to these moms, and each of these children, what a great pleasure to bring out their personalities!

One of my darling friends, is post 25 years, since her heart transplant. She taught me years ago, that having a heart condition, not everyone realizes that it can take so much energy to do the daily tasks. She would sometimes encounter strangers that would mock her when she used a motorized wheelchair that was available to be used in a big store, like Costco or Wal-mart. These strangers, felt that she might be abusing the opportunity for someone else to use the device, who might of been more sicker than her. What a good reminder to me, that we shouldn’t judge, and we should look to the good in others!

“Be proud, of your scars”…it shows what these children have endured, and their strength to overcome,and these scars or in many cases known as “Zippers” to our heart children, represent so much more than the surgeries they have come through. It represents our tears, our worries, our prayers, the many doctor and specialist appointments, the many people that come and go in and out of our lives, the nurses, the echogram technologists, social workers, and of course, our hope for them to live a fulfilled life, as long as they can! In the words, of one of my favourite songs, by Mindy Gledhill, “All About Your Heart“…and was actually written for Stephanie Nielson, of the nie nie dialogues, who survived a fiery plane crash.

“Oh, I’ve loved you from the start
In every single way
And more each passing day
You are brighter than the stars
Believe me when I say
It’s not about your scars
It’s all about your heart”

Christina

One of my children, is job hunting for a permanent part-time job. As, he is picky in his job searching, I see the priviledge all around, of where he could gain some experience. He knows it’s not what he wants to do long term…but he realizes it’s a stepping stone. I wish he was a more willing to go after the easier hiring jobs, such as fast food. We had the discussion that you never know, you might enjoy this retail job so much, that you will actually want to own the company…not according to him, though. While I was waiting in the car, as he was dropping off resumes, I was observing around me, I took note of all the many modern day technologies, that we seem to take advantage of. There was a truck infront of me, using a hydraulic lift…does one aspire to be a hyrdaulic creator? The automatic sliding doors that take you into the retail store. Does one dream, that they are going to own the company, and try to supply the rest of the world with all the doors possible. They break, and therefore they do need to be repaired, so someone else needs to be available to know how to correct them. Who grows up and says, I want to work in the sewer? Thank you, for those that do!

Then tonight, at basketball practise, another mom, and myself are professional photographers, and we got talking about how it’s something that on our highschool aptitude testing, where it might of suggested that we be an artist, or hair stylist, and little did we realize at the time, how we would actually grow up to become photographers, and fall in love with a capturing every day moments! My challenge for you, look around at all the opportunities that we have, and how blessed we are to experience them all, that someone has the aspiration to add beauty and make less work for all of us. We are so priviledged! What longing will aspire you tomorrow! I’ll start with a thankful heart to my family! Checkout my facebook page, for a complimentary photography session: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Christina-Parker-Photography/359992540679244?ref=hl: Christina

Click on the link, and wait past the advertisement, and don’t forget to scroll down, as there are multiple entries for more chances to win! :

https://www.promosimple.com/giveaways/1262/2651-it-s-hip-to-be-squared-grand-giveaway

Choose ANY of the following, do all will gain you more entries:
#1. POST a Picture of YOUR FAVOURITE Gift or POST something that is squared or came in a box on my facebook page or in the comments on the blog, do this every day, will gain you a entry every day!!
#2. LIKED MY FACEBOOK PAGE (already liked it, you’re automatically entered!)

https://www.facebook.com/pages/Christina-Parker-Photography/359992540679244?ref=hl

#3. TELL A FRIEND, post who you told or Tweet @cparkerphoto
#4. Friend, post a picture, likes the page, repeat cycle!
#5. Nominatee someone for the Olivia Act (for a free gift of photography, complimentary session with 5,8×10 to a family that could not afford it, this is to honor the Conn. children that past away in December).
#6. A past client? Please, leave a testimonial with your willingness for Christina to publish it online, through her contact page, or email.

YOU CAN POST a picture or tell me every day of what you love this past season, that came in a box. Grand GIVEAWAY & Giveaways ENDS SUNDAY Night Jan 13, 11:59 pm. Winners will be announced Jan 14! You may book a Special Promotion Pricing for “It’s Hip to Be Squared” session through http://www.christinaparkerphotography.com

Each NEW like on Facebook, adds a New Giveaway to be won!!

Giveaway #13 Hip to be squared photo session, with photo coasters

Giveaway #12 “Shh..don’t tell Tiffany” Peace necklace

GiveAway #11 Sterling SIlver Ring, with vermeil Flower Size 7

GiveAway #10
Onyx Sterling Silver Ring Size 7

GiveAway #9 “Shh..don’t tell Tiffany” bracelet

Giveaway #8 More Chocolate!
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Giveaway #7 "Sterling Silver Ring, Multi-interchangeable Size 7"

Giveaway #6 “Shh…don’t tell Tiffany” cuff bracelet

Giveaway #5″Shh..don’t tell Tiffany” Peace necklace

Giveaways #4 “Shh..don’t tell Tiffany” Flower necklace”

Give Away #3 (who ever wins, giveaway #2 will also win giveaway 3, It’s a double whammy!)

GIVEAWAY #2
The prize to be won, is a Scentsy Sand Dollar plug in!

GIVEAWAY #1
Here is a hint of another prize that can be won… a box of yummy lindt milk chocolates, that fit perfectly in their boxes!

GRAND GIVEAWAY

I am offering a COMPLIMENTARY “It’s HIP to Be SQUARED” 30-45 min photography portrait session to Alberta residents (must come to the home studio in Calgary SE) No travel expenses are included. With this grand prize, you will also be receiving a 8×8 storyboard, that will come in a black 12″ parisian frame, as shown below in previous post. Valued at 500+. Additional prints may be purchased. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iiEK_dsk4R8

GIVEAWAY #1
Here is a hint of another prize that can be won… a box of yummy lindt milk chocolates, that fit perfectly in their boxes!

GRAND GIVEAWAY
I am offering a COMPLIMENTARY “It’s HIP to Be SQUARED” 30-45 min photography portrait session to Alberta residents (must come to the home studio in Calgary) No travel expenses are included. With this grand prize, you will also be receiving a 8×8 storyboard, that will come in a black 12″ parisian frame, as shown below. Valued at 500+. Additional prints may be purchased

RULES:
One entry allowed per day, and must be over 18 to enter either Canadian or USA citizen or permanent resident. I may not be able to grant you the photo session, if you aren’t from Alberta, but I will send some chocolates or jewelry you way!

https://www.promosimple.com/giveaways/1262/2651-it-s-hip-to-be-squared-grand-giveaway

Choose ANY of the following, do all will gain you more entries:
#1. POST a Picture of YOUR FAVOURITE Gift or POST something that is squared or came in a box on my facebook page or in the comments on the blog, do this every day, will gain you a entry every day!!
#2. LIKED MY FACEBOOK PAGE (already liked it, you’re automatically entered!)
#3. TELL A FRIEND, post who you told or Tweet @cparkerphoto
#4. Friend, post a picture, likes the page, repeat cycle!
#5. Nominatee someone for the Olivia Act (refer to previous post).
#6. A past client? Please, leave a testimonial with your willingness for Christina to publish it online, through her contact page, or email.

YOU CAN POST a picture every day!! Just once though. GRAND GIVEAWAY & GIVEAWAYS ENDS SUNDAY Night Jan 13, 11:59 pm. Winners will be announced Jan 14! You may book a Special Promotion Pricing for “It’s Hip to Be Squared” session through http://www.christinaparkerphotography.com Thank you, Christina

What was the best thing that you received in a box, this past week? Did you get your favourite UGLY sweater??

I asked some of you, what your favourite items were that came in boxes, standard answers: #1 CHOCOLATE!! 2# JEWELRY!! Well this could be your lucky chance!

SO, for this GIVEAWAY

I am offering a COMPLIMENTARY “It’s HIP to Be SQUARED” 30-45 min photography portrait session to Alberta residents (must come to the home studio in Calgary) No travel expenses are included. With this grand prize, you will also be receiving a 8×8 storyboard, that will come in a black 12″ parisian frame, as shown below. Valued at 500+. Additional prints may be purchased.

Additional prizes will be added to give away for each “like” I get towards my facebook photography page.

https://www.facebook.com/pages/Christina-Parker-Photography/359992540679244?ref=hl

I’m the small business, not the same name of mine, photographer who lives in Texas.

Here is a hint of another prize that can be won… a box of yummy lindt milk chocolates, that fit perfectly in their boxes!

RULES:
One entry allowed per day, and must be over 18 to enter either Canadian or USA citizen or permanent resident. I may not be able to grant you the photo session, if you aren’t from Alberta, but I will send some chocolates or jewelry you way!
HOW TO ENTER, choose any of the following, do all will gain you more entries:
#1. POST a Picture of YOUR FAVOURITE Gift or something that is squared or came in a box on my facebook page or in the comments on the blog, do this every day, will gain you a entry every day!!
#2. LIKED MY FACEBOOK PAGE (already liked it, you’re automatically entered!)
#3. TELL A FRIEND, post who you told
#4. Friend, post a picture, likes the page, repeat cycle!
#5. Nominatee someone for the Olivia Act (refer to previous post).

YOU CAN POST a picture every day!! Just once though. GIVEAWAY ENDS SUNDAY Night Jan 13, 11:59 pm. Winners will be announced Jan 14! You may book a Special Promotion Pricing for “It’s Hip to Be Squared” session through http://www.christinaparkerphotography.com Thank you, Christina

Specializing in Children Photography, I was touched when I read of this tribute that a Texas photography, who decided to “give back” in her way of showing her support to the recent Newtown, Conn. massacre. She has a child named Olivia, the same name of one of the young victims, and she created the challenge “The Olivia Act” as many photograpers also decided they wanted to join up for the same cause. when they discovered what she was doing.

Her offer was to offer a free 30 min. family session with 5 digitial files, to a family that might not otherwise have images made.

We all know of the recent events that have been broadcasted Internationally. We all have been affected one way or another, even when we aren’t from the area, but realize it really could happen to anyone of us, none of us are immuned. In Newtown, Conn. at the Sandy Hook Elementary School on Dec 14, 2012; 20 children where killed, as well as 6 adults. Many tears have been shed every day, since last Friday, with many of our younger children (not knowing any of the details). One of the children that was a victim was “Olivia Engel”. Her family, had recently had their family pictures taken. I’m sure they feel it’s such a treasure, to have these recent portraits of their daughter Olivia. It rings true to my heart of my own motto “Preserving Time for Generations to Come”. …or in this case, in a few weeks to come.

I have joined the ranks, with the original photographer from Texas and many many more… who has given all of us professional photographers, a place to reflect, and lift a need of another. There are many organizations in the world of photography, that do the same, such as “Now I lay me down to Sleep” for children that die prior or shortly after birth. It doesn’t necessary have to be right now, or even to honor to those that suffered in Newtown, but I think it helps many of us to heal, to reflect on the good that we have to offer and to the lasting effect that the gift of photography can bring.

I’m not posting this to help drive my business for more attention, I like my work load as is.
I like to give in many ways, did you know… a free baby session, for 1st time parents only!
I like giveaways, more will be posted soon for some fun times ahead!

So, I’m participating in the “The Olivia Act”. I’ve matching, the same offer, as what the original photograper decided on….1 FREE 30 minute session, 5, 8×12 or under mounted prints, to a family that might not otherwise have images printed or made. VALUED at $450!

Please nominate a family, by contacting me, through my website link: http://www.christinaparkerphotography.com/?page/77605/contact-us Message “Olivia Act” and leave your details. Deadline has been extended to June 30th for all nominations. Nominaee will be contacted by phone or email, local residents of Calgary only. It is non transferable. 30 Min session, will take place in summer ofy 2013, and will be either be taken in my home studio or in special circumstances, could be taken elsewhere, ie. hospital.

Please leave your comments, of why your chosen family should be nominated on my blog or on my contact us page through my website with their contact information: http://www.christinaparkerphotography.com/?page/77605/contact-us

The Nominee will be contacted via email or phone call. Please do not post their information in the comments, respect their information.

As we know this can mean so much to a family because you never know what tomorrow will bring! Thank you, Christina