Scarborough Fair

On Memorial Day Monday, my dear friend Kym and I took Blaze to Scarborough Fair.

We had never been before so we had no expectations. When we got there, we were blown away by the dedication, effort and time put in to making this festival happen.

You really felt like you were stepping back into the Renaissance with all of the exquisite buildings, craftsmen, vendors and people everywhere dressed in period correct costumes.

Blaze had so much fun with all the activities and all the people dressed up. There was a dad playing sword fight with his two young boys and B was totally intrigued. He wiggled out of my arms so he could walk over and take a closer look. He cocked his head and you could just see the gears turning in his head, "What in the world are they doing?" is probably going through his little noodle.

We had such a good time and I can't wait until next year.

This guy had an old printing press. How cool!

The blacksmith. He made such beautiful things.

Blaze and Kym watching an act.

The architecture was intriguing.

3 piece band in a pub.

I think this was a mythical monster. Pretty detailed.

I will never ever ever get tired of taking pictures of this face.

This guy TOTALLY looked like he was 200
and a wizard!

I was amazed at the craftsmanship of these walking sticks.

They make me want to have a reason to need a walking
stick.... almost.

This castle was an attraction to demonstrate
the brutality of the times. I didn't go in.

By Hammer, Hand and the Grace of God.
Love it! This was an outside wedding garden.
Do you think I can talk Clint into renewing
our vows here??? Yeah I didn't think so either.

Chris the Elephant. I will always be fascinated with elephants.

Chris doing her tricks for the crowd.

Camel

Blaze and Me rode the elephant. It was a wonderful experience.

Me and Blaze. Check out the new teeth! Thanks Dr. Britton!

A good ol' wrestlin' match. Look at the expressions
 of the onlookers.

This is what I aspire to be... a Boss Wench! lol!

The detail in the signs blew me away.

How cool is this? I just took a picture of it
because I thought it was cool! That's all.

Mama Mare & Sweet Little Red

Since we moved to the ranch, my afternoons have consisted of loving on as many animals as I could before I had come back to the real world and cook dinner, or do laundry, or load the dish washer, or give bath time...

A couple of the horses that I have become close to are Mama Mare & Sweet Little Red.

Clay & Colleen have bred Mama Mare to a stud and that's how Sweet Little Red came along.

Springtime is my absolute favorite time of the year. New life pops up all around us and we relish in it as long as we can because we know the harsh summer is upon us.

Just like any new mama, Mama Mare is very protective over Sweet Little Red. And Sweet Little Red doesn't know enough about the world yet to trust a weird two legged thing wanting to touch her.

I have gone out there every single day.

Some days I would hand feed Mama Mare alfalfa.

Some days I would just sit on the other side of the fence admiring the grace and beauty of these two creatures.

Some days I would get inside their pen so they would get used to my smell and let them know I was just there for lovin'.

A few days Mama Mare would sniff me over like I was being checked out to board a plane. She would sniff my hands, my shirt, and even my hair to make sure it was ok that I was in their pen.

A couple of days I spent a good hour brushing Mama Mare's mane and tail, scratching in between her ears, and giving her robust belly a good massage.

One day, Mama Mare stood face to face with me as she rested her giant cheek against my cheek while I just stroked her neck and took in her smell. It was magical. I felt like we bonded. All the while Sweet Little Red would poke her head from behind Mama Mare, still unsure of me but somewhat getting used to my presence.  

Sweet Little Red got lost in the trance of Mama Mare being pampered one day and let me stroke her fluffy, skinny neck until she realized it was my hand. Then she scampered away with her gawky legs to the other side of Mama Mare.

I will cherish those days forever.

Mama Mare and Sweet Little Red just left this morning for Oklahoma where they will live on a friend's calf horse ranch for a while until Mama Mare comes back to raise another baby.

I will be waiting. I can't wait to see that beautiful red roan mare back in the pen where I can do it all over again.

Here are just a few pictures Mama Mare and Sweet Little Red let me snap. They weren't really sure about the camera, though.

Sweet Little Red looking at me from under
Mama Mare's belly.

Mama Mare trying to show Sweet Little Red the ropes.

I'm going to pretend this isn't personal.

Mama Mare. Such a beautiful being.

"Just Say No To Train Tracks"

I have been following Mark Eric Photography for a couple of months now.

Ever since I got my camera, I have been stalking admiring all kinds of photographers in hopes to have their knowledge and expertise seep through my brain by osmosis.

I am not really sure how I stumbled upon Mark Eric by I am so glad I did.

He is a wedding photographer from Alexandria, Louisiana. I was instantly captivated by his photography style. His beautiful subjects in beautiful places with an insane amount of color jumping out at you, and of course his extraordinary "camera eye" makes some of the most exquisite engagement and wedding photographs that I have ever seen.

He had me at Louisiana. Since my roots run deep into the cajun country, I feel a connection to those in that demographic. Those are my people!

What made me like him even more is that he posted on his blog his journey to where he is at now. He started by doing photography as a hobby with a full time job so he could purchase his camera equipment a little at a time and not be in debt. (I feel him on that one.) He would search and ask questions from expereienced photographers to just be have doors slammed in his face. Little by little he built his photography business to being booked out for more than a year at a time. Inspiring to say the very least.

He also posted on his blog that he hosts workshops for budding photographers. I can't wait for the info for the beginner photography workshops. You can bet your buns I will be there. I'll scratch shit with the chickens to make it happen. You know, I really have never understood that saying but Granny used to tell me that. I guess it means, "Come hell or high water." Something to ponder.... anyways, moving on...

So, Mark posted a status update on his Facebook that got me thinking...

"Just say no to train tracks"

Hmmmm... You are SO right Mark Eric!

What is it exactly that you are trying to accomplish by having your picture taken on train tracks?

Are you trying to look like you're a lost rambler trying to bum a ride from the next train that comes by? That wouldn't be cool. Or maybe it would be kind of cool, but realistic? No.

Are you contemplating throwing yourself in front of that train? Ouch!

Is it a metaphor of your empty life on an endless track with no destination in sight? That's really sad.

I always see pictures of people with their guitars strapped to their backs headed down alongside the train tracks. Do you REALLY know how to play that guitar? I bet not. And if you do, why are you following train tracks? Why aren't you in a bar, coffee shop, or maybe a record execs office playing your guitar?

Oh and those people that are sitting on the train tracks in a cute little pose showing off their legs. Really? Why are you sitting in the middle of the train tracks? Are you trying to stop a train that maybe your estranged lover is on and you think maybe showing off  your legs will make the train come to a screeching halt and your lover will be so flattered by your gesture and come falling back into your arms? I don't think so.  

I prefer to photograph life candid. I think capturing subjects in their natural habitat can be magical when you capture it correctly. It's true and honest. How can you get any better than that? Be true to yourself and your subjects. Plain and simple. Don't try to make it out to be something it isn't or someone you're not.

Am analyzing this little simple statement too much? Probably so. Oh well. Sue me. You won't get much, I promise.

So with that being said, I totally agree with Mark Eric... "Just Say No To Train Tracks."

End of story. You will thank me later.

Blog Update

I have just a few updates and tips for you out there in cyber space.

1. I have had a few people say to me, "I subscribed to your blog by email but I never get it in my email. What gives?"

Being a new blogger and an amateur blog reader, I have learned the hard way on this little subject.

This is for you if you WANT to subscribe by email to my blog posts or you are trying to subscribe to someone elses blog. When you do this, everytime there is a post, it gets delivered straight to your email so you don't have to worry about checking each blog you like to read for new blog posts. I actually prefer this feature because I follow too many blogs to list and searching for them would take a ridiculous amount of time.

There is a box in the right side column that says "Subscribe by email" with a little box for you to type your email into that box and click "submit".

When you do that, a box will pop up on your screen and you will make sure that the email you entered is correct, then scroll down to the bottom and type the phrase that is shown. Those little doo-hickies are always sideways and kind of jumbled. I guess it is to make sure you aren't a robot or an alien from outer space. If you aren't a robot or an alien from outer space then type the phrase and click "Complete Subrscription".

Once you do that, you aren't quite done yet. The email subscription service will send you an email and you have to click on the link to confirm that you in fact want to subscribe to the blog... and to make sure you aren't a robot or alien from outer space.

They sure are worried about those robots and aliens....

2. "Life As Kaci Knows It" has a Facebook page! Wahoo! There is also a button on the right hand column that says "Like" Life As Kaci Knows It on Facebook". If you click that, you automatically "like" the Facebook page and you will get all the status updates.

That's all because of my sweet computer hacking skills..... do you believe that? I wouldn't either. I have no computer hacking skills. Dammit! I wish I did, though.

3. "Life As Kaci Knows It" also has its own email address.... I hope all the technical growths aren't overwhelming you!

You can email me at lifeaskaciknowsit@gmail.com with questions, comments, requests to be a guest blogger, share photos... but if you want to complain and tell me I'm not smart and I can't read good, just keep that to yourself. Haha!

4. I am open to having a guest blogger or two about whatever you want to blog about.

Want to talk about the weather? Cool. Have a business you want to promote? Go for it. Found a really cool product that you want to share? Sweet. Want to share tutorials or advice about a an expertise of yours. Even better!

 Just email me at lifeaskaciknowsit@gmail.com with your suggestions.

Until next time!
Kaci

"Wow, You Have An Awesome Camera"

"Wow, you have an awesome camera!" is a phrase that I've heard a few times recently when people see my pictures.

On one hand, I 'm like, "Oh thank you so much! I love my camera!"

And on the other hand I say to myself, "Is it my camera or is it me that is so awesome?" Hahaha! I'm kidding.

I have always always always had a passion for photography but just never had the means to invest in a quality camera until a couple of months ago.

Seeing a beautifully composed picture strikes a flame inside me and I actually fall in love with an inanimate object. Seriously.

I have a sincere appreciation for art and creativiness.

Don't get me wrong, I have a LONG way to go in my photography venture and in no way, shape or form consider myself a "photographer" or really consider myself qualified enough to give out advice on the matter. But since I have been asked this question several times already, I figured that I would share my experience with others interested in getting into photography.

First of all, if you don't know what an ISO, shutter speed, or white balance is then quit reading because you aren't educated enough to continue reading this.......JUST KIDDING!! I'm still working on getting to know all of that stuff myself. It will come. Be patient.

Before I bought my camera I scoured the internet and the library (The library is a WONDERFUL and under appreciated source of information. Some people consider it outdated but where can you read books for free?? No where.) for advice on which camera to buy, which lenses I should invest in (because those puppies are NOT cheap, and I really didn't want to make a $500 mistake with buying the wrong lens), and techniques.

Quite frankly, there is not alot of info out there, or maybe I'm not looking in the right place. I'm not sure if it because people are not willing to share their knowledge on photography or not alot of people have dedicated the time to put it out there. Forget asking an established photgrapher to share their secrets too.

I found a wealth of knowledge on a blog called Photo Tips And Sips and I will forever be grateful for the author's contribution to my decision on my camera purchase.

Looking to buy a camera? Here's my obnoxious advice. 

This particular post is such a good source of information that I read and re-read this several times before I placed my order for my camera and lenses. I based everything I bought on this single article.

You should definitely read this if you are interested in investing in photography equipment.

I bought the Canon T1i camera body . I did not purchase the kit with the two lenses with it because I didn't want to pay the extra money for crappy lenses. I would recommend you do the same. I got Canon because I just felt that it fit my needs for now: beginner hobby photo taker. (Notice I didn't say "photographer".)

I bought the Canon 50mm f/1.4 lens and I absolutely LOVE it. Yes it is pricey but it is an investment lens and you will love it too. It takes the most beautiful pictures. It is a prime lens that you can use for most of your photography needs.

I am just recently learning that the saying "you get what you pay for" is 100% correct. I have been so cheap for so long and it ends up costing me more money in the long run. So especially with photography equipment, don't skimp. Don't be cheap. I'm not saying break the bank but save and budget for the good stuff. Get by with what you have until you can purchase the good quality camera and lenses. You won't regret it.

I also have the Canon 55-250mm Telephot Zoom Lens. I used this one alot for the High Oaks Cattle Branding  and I use it alot at team ropings. I also love this lens. I like zooming. It makes me feel like I have a purpose behind a camera. Weird. I know.

Now the things that are on my wish list:

Epiphanie Camera Bag: Ginger I am in LOVE with this bag and it will be mine one day! Oh yes! It will be mine!

Canon Speedlite 430X ii Flash I am actually going to go buy this today! Wahoo! I worked enough ropings to buy it! See people, save, budget, buy. You can do it too!

Tokina 11-16mm Wide Angel Lens I am going to have to work a BUNCH of ropings to pay for this puppy, but I will make it happen.

I hope you find this information helpful should you be interested in diving into photography. It is an addicting, consuming but very rewarding hobby to have.

Much love!
-Kaci

Weekend at the High Oaks Ranch: The Big Hat Roping

Big Hat Roping Rules:

1. You must wear your Big Hat at all times. If your Big Hat should fall off, you get a no time.

2. Leggins must be worn at all times.

3. Both ropers must leave out of the head box.

4. No tie downs.

I swear as soon as these guys, and a few girls, put on their big hats they turn into little boys and girls again.

They jack ass around and try to out-do eachother. They try to get people bucked off, ahem Slick and Clint. They show off their best trick roping skills. They try to tell the funniest joke. But most of all, they try to win the sweet prizes of the Big Hat.

Sean and his rope tricks.

Trey Trey showing off his roping skills.

Case is getting in on the trick rope action.

And then of course John Klam has to out do everyone.

Look up "jack assing around". I wonder if
you will see this picture.

Carson practicing for her next mutton bustin'.

First place wins these clean and sharp looking buckles from Squaw Creek Silver. Aren't they pretty? I want to start roping just so I can win one next year!

Second wins these pretty amazing halters made by Don Gonzales Saddlery. It was Jimnastics goal to win first because he won the halter (that he made, hehe) last year. He had his eye on the buckle and his intention was to rub it in everyone's face when he did.

And Wrangler jeans go to each of the guys that won 1st through 4th.

If you can stay on your horse and your hat on your head, you just might limp walk away with some of those fabulous prizes at The Big Hat Roping.

A great time is had by all just as long as you don't take it too seriously.

It seems like Mother Nature knows when the Big Hat Roping is taken place because the wind was blowing like we were in West Texas. This was exponentially more funny watching the guys trying to keep their hats on.

Pictures of the actual roping are limited because I was duped asked ever so nicely to be the announcer, time keeper and book keeper, so I had my hands full.

It has been a very long time since I have laughed as hard as I have on this weekend. You can see why.

Clint making friends.

Vegas making sure the stock knows who's boss.

Clint and Sean having a good laugh.

Robert is THRILLED to be here!

I'm not sure which Scotty is more ready for: the Big Hat roping
or for people to finally get off his ranch! Haha!

It is so hard to take anybody seriously with those hats on.

Jimnastics is ready for a win!

The Big Hat pre game mingling.

This is probably my favorite picture of the
Big Hat. This is Don Gonzales sporting
this years fashion for the Big Hat Roping.

The 3 Musketeers.... or maybe the 3 Stooges

That hat looks nice on you, Kayla!

These two look like they are up to NO GOOD! What's new?

Even the ponies like the Big Hats.

Jimnastics showing off his big hat and his finely crafted,
hand-made in Texas Don Gonzales saddle.

Sandy and Bolivar are ready for the Big Hat!

Oooooooooooo! That's some NICE craftsmanship by
Don Gonzales Saddlery.

DJ helping out the camera crew.

The Big Hat Champions are Jimnastics & DJ.

@nd place went to Slick Robinson & Jackson Breshears

3rd place went to Robert Lever & Scotty Cobb

4th place went to John Shaffer & Clint Johnson (my sweetheart!) 

Greg Rumhor got the Top Hand award!

That's a nice fit!