Back To School | North Idaho Photographer
Posted on September 2, 2010
Today, after a super fun session with a group of moms and their ADORABLE and BEAUITFUL daughters, I picked up the mail and noticed a letter from my mom. It was kind of thick- so I figured it was some BILL she was sending me… so I kindly ignored it.
Well tonight as I was engrossed in my editing and listening to my tummy say “fEeD Me WomAn!” A HUGE spider crawled up beside me on the wall. After I schrieked and looked around for a hero to save me.. I figured if I didnt want to be eaten alive by this big scarey – what looked like a Hobo Spider… I better grab the closest shoe to me and KILL that beast! I mean after all- he doesnt pay rent! and its a SPIDER!!
So I walked outside to scrap him off the bottom of my son’s shoe… no way was I gonna get spider guts on my cute flats- I passed my moms letter again and decided to open it. I was surprised to find out that it WASNT a bill (Yahoo) but a funny forward she had printed out for me. Whats funny- besides the story that i will share with you soon- but the fact that as much as I know that my mom- was a MOM raising two kids… I have the hardest time thinking of her ACTUALLY doing it. I think its because I remember her never being so frustrated or flustred like I get daily! ANd yes… I have to admit…. I do and say some of the things you are about to read. Don’t judge me. I am just a mom of 4 surviving motherhood 
10 Misconsuptions of Moms and Back To School
Misconception Number 1: Moms miss their kids when they go back to school
Seriously. I’ve had enough of you by now. Every morning with the “what are we going to do today, Mom?” is finally over. I’ve had looked at your face twenty-four seven for the last 77 days. It’s time to go learn something. No more asking me about the pool, when is the next snack or if you can stay up late and watch a movie. It’s over….You’re going back to Hogwarts and I get to have a life again. There is a Christmas morning for parents and it’s called “back to school”.
Misconception Number 2: Moms like to go school shopping.
Are you freaking kidding me? Why do I pay taxes?…so I can rack up a 200 dollar bill at Staples for crap that we have laying around my house in junk drawers. Why does it have to be new pencils? What’s wrong with the chewed up, broken strawberry shortcake pencils sitting in the bottom of the toy box for the last 6 months? And how many subject books can you possibly need? What happened to reading, writing and arithmetic. If they added a couple of things for parents to that list I wouldn’t mind so much….why not pencils, erasers and vodka …..or some Nyquil.
Misconception Number 3: Moms like back to school night
Why must we do this every year? I got it already. You’re the teacher…I’m the parent. My kid is either going to be smart or dumb. If he gets a certain number or colored dot on his discipline chart, he can’t get a prize from the prize box. Pretty simple stuff. Listen, I’m pretty old school. If he doesn’t listen to you…you can throw something at him. I don’t care. But I got a lot of work to do at home and I’m paying a babysitter right now. Plus, I’m pretty sure you are going to assign some project on wigwams made by some Indian tribe I’ve never heard of, so I need to get home and start my research. So, I got it. We’re all here for the betterment of the kids. Blah Blah Blah. Can I leave now?
Misconception Number 4: Moms like school paperwork.
How many trees are you planning on killing to tell me the same stuff I had to pay a babysitter to listen to the other night? You know our name, where we live and our emergency phone numbers. He doesn’t have a nickname….call him “stinkbutt” for all I care. We don’t have any “special circumstances” that you need to know about. He lives in a home with two parents who may or may not like each other at any given time and they will fight. If that qualifies as a reason he can’t get his homework done on time then he won’t be able to function as an adult and have a real job so you may want to “educate” him on that life lesson.
Misconception Number 5: Moms like covering books in that annoying sticky paper.
What exactly will you be doing with these books that I have to cover them in a plastic laminate? Do you often teach in the rain? Or while the children are drinking soda and eating soup? Do you know how long that takes? Has any parent in the history of education been able to do it without any air bubbles in it? From now on I’m covering it the old way…brown paper bags. That way I can cover the books and pack their lunches at that same time. Who says moms can’t multitask?
PS. Please tell my son if he can’t find his lunch to look in his science book.
Misconception Number 6: Moms like helping you with your homework
What? I am scared out of my mind. I’m pretty sure that I forgot everything I learned in fifth grade by the time I was in sixth grade. I have no idea what you are talking about most days. I don’t really know my 12 times tables, I read the cliff notes to all your summer reading and I don’t know how to conjugate anything but I do know that song “conjuction junction what’s your function” if that helps at all. And please don’t even say the words “new math” to me. What the heck was wrong the old one?
Misconception Number 7: Moms can’t wait to pack your lunch every day until we die.
I hate doing laundry. Making dinner every night is the bain of my existence, so making your lunch every day for an entire year, in terms of “mom fun”, lies somewhere between brushing plaque off the dogs teeth and scheduling my annual pap smear. Listen, as a child I hated what my mom packed me for lunch. But, like every kid before me, and every generation to come you will find a kid to trade with…I’m sure someone likes sardines.
Misconception Number 8: Moms love after school activities.
I don’t know who made up this idea of organized clubs and sports but they should be the ones in charge of carting your ass around. Don’t get me wrong. I’m not against all after school programs. I just wish they would offer it during hours that would work best for me so that dinner wasn’t at 8:30 at night followed by 4 hours of homework. Why not do it on the weekends and call it “after-hours activities” so mommy and daddy could actually go out one night and pretend that we have a life of our own. Don’t worry about us though I’m sure that me and “what’s his name” will be married a very long time.
Misconception Number 9: Moms don’t mind taking you to school if you miss the bus
Your bus comes at 7:10 am….which means that you should be standing by the door at 7:05 am. Not eating breakfast , chasing the dog around the house or in the bathroom, asking me to check your homework while I’m taking a shower. Get it together! I don’t like running down the street in my jammies at 7:12 screaming “Please wait” or “If you stop I’ll show you my boobies.”
Misconception Number 10: Moms cry on your first day of school
We do cry but they are tears of joy. I have done my job. I have successfully kept a human child alive for at least 5 years without doing any major damage. Motherhood is the hardest job in the world!! Sure, doctors save lives and CEO’s run million dollar businesses but…you teach a kid not to poop their pants and then you can say you’ve made the world a better place.
I love back to school time…… This year *sigh* will be different. We have decided to home school this year. Not only my daughter, but our son as well. Am I excited? Honestly- NO WAY! I am feeling stressed and over whelmed and we havent even started yet. Just the single thought of it gives me cramps! But my hubby has said he will do it… and the parts he does not do… I have found me a mommy helper to get me thru the day!
Wish me luck- and send some chocolate!
~Jackie
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Breath | North Idaho Photographer
Posted on September 1, 2010
{ Deep Breath In……. Deep Breath out …….}
It was bee a CRAZY few days as I have been trying to set up the website for The Angels Of Hope Voting. GOOD LORD that was a lot more work and so much harder than I imagined. Next year- I am SO hiring out for that. I do want to give a BIG shout out to Cynthia Pace and Andy at Cynthia Pace Photography in South Carolina for keeping my positive, listening to me freak out, and helping with me with those pesky HTML codes (yuck). I am sure they think I am some high- strung FREAK! I just wanted this charity event to be perfect and successful. I want to do good for Kinderhaven- so I am SO scared of failing them.
On a better note… I have really enjoyed all these beautiful babies and kiddos. Every parent was wonderful and so supportive. I know for my other clients with sessions waiting to be seen, you all have been so wonderful with being so patient with me as I have been getting thru this rush. Good news though, I am back on track and have some super cute images to share very soon!
To my kids… oh my poor kids!! They have watched me sit HOURS here in this computer as I tried 8 EIGHT….. did you read that- E I G H T times trying to get this site loaded right. They have heard words that only truck drivers say out loud and I am pretty sure they have witnessed me foaming at the mouth and seen my head twitching. I am planning on awarding them something for putting up with this crazy mom! What is so wonderful about them… is they understand why I have been spending so much time on this project. Their hearts too support the good that Kinderhaven offers! I have such wonderful kiddos!
Dear sweet hubby…. You have been so wonderful to me as I have… well… slacked in my other “jobs” and I so appreciate your excitement for this event. You have been so great on picking me back up when I feel that I was feeling really low.
For all my clients, friends, family and visitors in Sandpoint, Coeur d Alene, Spokane, and all over the world….. Angels Of Hope is now giving you a chance to help out, too! Kinderhaven, is a safe home in Sandpoint for abused and neglected children. Its caring staff and safe environment has helped countless children and families in our community. Many “angels” in our town were photographed with all of the proceeds going directly to Kinderhaven. Now, these little “angels” are in a contest to be a part of the 2011 Angels of Hope Calendar which will feature the 12 children who receive the top number of votes. There are 28 families that participated by having their child(ren) photographed and be a part of a chance of being in the calendar. I know each family would love to have their child be a part of this, but it is even more rewarding to think of the fact that the money from each vote goes directly to Kinderhaven.
I am hoping that you will all take the time to vote, making whatever donation you would like. Each vote costs $1.00 and you will see how to do this once you enter the blog (link is below). It is very simple and each child’s name is below his/her picture. There are some very, very cute kiddos to vote for! Voting ends on September 30th.
Thanks, in advance, for your generosity. Go take a look at these super cute angels!
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Beautiful | Sandpoint Photographer
Posted on August 30, 2010
This is the most beautiful person – inside and out- I know. She is sweet, talented, friendly, fun, and was great with kids!
Meet Miss O.
She left our lives for her own college life- as fast as she came into our lives. I did meet her what seemed AGES ago at our church and I felt I have watched her grow up- from afar. I have seen her touch others in their lives, perform wonderfully on stage and take care of my kids like they were the best ever!
Before she headed out for college, she made a comment that she wanted me to do her senior photos back in the day, but it just never worked out…. I thought it was so sweet that she thought about me to do them. We had planned for a fun day and as my gift, to go out and do some photos… it took a while to happen as life always has its own agenda!
FINALLY when we were able to meet up I was SHOCKED on how well she did in front of the camera. That girl was a NATURAL!! I personally think that if she ever wanted to do modeling- she could NAIL it!!!
I had a great time with Ms. O as we …… let me correct that phrase… as SHE played in the sand and the water. Another brave chickabee!! I love it though!!
Here is a sneak peek into our session
***O- thank you so much for giving me the honor to do your photos. I wish you nothing but the absolute BEST in college. I know you will do great. Keep your chin up and remember when life gets too hard to stand- kneel. Loves!**
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Angels Of Hope | Sandpoint Photographer
Posted on August 28, 2010
Today is a bitter sweet day. This was my last day of shooting “angels” for the Angels Of Hope charity event. I have had SO much fun with all these ADORABLE kiddos, but my body is so sore and exhusted. With this weather I am far too tempted is sit my lazy butt on my couch and finish watching Tori & Dean.. I would so love to meet her!!
I wanted to thank everyone that has participated in being an Angel. We have a total of 35 kiddos!!! For the first year of this event, I think that is a pretty good amount. I have been taking notes throughout the event on what changes should be made for next year…but overall, I am happy.
Now, the hard part… is picking (1) image per child ACK! They are all so cute.. its going to be so hard!!
More details will come as far as how you can further you can help with Angels Of Hope and vote for your top 12 Angels for the calendar.
Thanks again to all the parents and the kiddos for supporting this event- you are loved!!
~Jackie
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Trash That Dress | North Idaho Photographer
Posted on August 28, 2010
TRASH THE DRESS
I know the title is pretty scary, but it’s not as dramatic as you think
Trash The Dress or The Day After session is a chance to get all those FUN photos. This is the time to have fun, relax and be playful- without the worry of getting your beautiful dress dirty. During the wedding day, I know that the last thing you wanna do is get any spect of dirt on your gown- I get that… that is why TTD or TDA sessions are just so much fun!
This beautiful bride got married last year so we hooked up this summer for a little Idaho Fun! We headed back to Dover, since that is where we did their engagement session and part of their wedding photos.
I always have a great time with H- she is just so happy and up for anything! She had mentioned getting in the water… and here is a little secret to all your brides out there…. if you say or mention getting in the water- you can bet someone will and Hopefully it wont be me!
H was a GEM floating in the water- her dog even joined in on the fun!
Here is a peek into our session!
Thanks again H- you looked amazing!
I had saved this post for a few days with a funny story written in it… when I came back it was GONE – grrrr- I will see if I can remember it so I can share it with you moms. silly computer!
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HAPPY BIRTHDAY | North Idaho Photgraphy
Posted on August 20, 2010
HAPPY Birthday!
I am a little late. Call it a Charlebois thing
The past few days have been a rush- so much to the point where I am unsure of what the day is! I do know that I have skipped a few birthday surprises. So here I am to make it up
Five Years brings YOU five fun gifts!
Starbucks Gift Card & an issue of REAL LIFE Family Magazine
Gift Certificate to Hey Cupcake!
Jar of Home- Made Cookie mix (yummy)
A set of personalized notecards (from your recent session)
Complimentary Mini Session (at my new location) and 5 images on a disc!!
How to win?? Become a Fan of Jax Creations Photography on Facebook and then come back here and tell me the funniest thing that has ever happened to as a mom!
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August 21, 2010 at 6:06 am -
Had a lot of fun at our session yesterday….hoping to win a little prize now
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Sweet Lillyana | North Idaho Baby Photographer
Posted on August 18, 2010
I got an exciting call the other day from a momma who was visiting up here from FLORIDA…. ahhhh- Florida- the sun, the beach, the waves, the shopping…the crowds, the bugs, the crime- yuck.. As much as I miss the south- I LOVE my life up here in the mountains!
Due to her family leaving before Angels Of Hope kick-off this weekend, we did a special shoot just for this beautiful little girl.
I think here, she was giving me a piece of her mind about my camera. It doesnt matter- I still think she is as cute as a new pair of shoes!
**C- thanks so much for coming out to see me. It was such a pleasure meeting you! I hope you all have a safe trip back to Florida**
OHHH> we should announce today’s winner!!
lets do another drum roll please……………………………………
Ta-DA!!! Jordan- you are the PROUD winner of a Starbucks Gift card!
Enjoy love.. I will get it sent out to you ASAP
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Birthday Bash~ Day two | North Idaho Photographer
Posted on August 17, 2010
Congrats to Jesse (number 4) for your comment. You get a FREE set of STICKERS!!!! Wahoo!!
DAY TWO~
For a long (good) day… a Starbucks Gift Card- yummy
Same rules….leave a comment
Happy Tuesday!
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August 17, 2010 at 9:22 pm -
One of these days, I will go broke buying coffee, this would sure help postpone that heh
Have a great night! -
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August 17, 2010 at 11:29 pm -
Can I have it so I can wake up early for my son’s session
I will be needing a strong cup of coffee that day – we are going to the fair all day after the shoot! -
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August 18, 2010 at 12:02 pm -
You are an amazing photographer and inspiring individual…thank you for being great at what you do
Tidbits On Tuesday | North Idaho Photographer
Posted on August 17, 2010
Tuesday. Blah!
my morning started off with my hubby gone without saying good-bye. I dont like that because I feel like I forgot something all day. The the jeans that I tried on – that should have fit- seemed to have shrunk 2 sizes. dang washer machine! There was no coffee in the coffee pot – boo hiss boys! And to top it off… baby woke with a full diaper of yucky smelly stuff.
Tuesday are ok, but I go to bed on Monday’s not really looking forward to Tuesdays. Its therapy day- which means dragging ALL the kids to town and trying to occupy them during therapy. And I guess its not THAT bad.. I am whinning I guess. Lil’s therapist is a doll- so sweet and caring- and my mom does feed us lunch while we are there.. but its the chasing the baby around the hospital that makes me tired! BUT… on the good news side.. I get to meet a new little baby girl that will be really sweet.
I am really not a Negative Nelly today. In fact as bad as the day started… I am going to have a great day! I am dressed and ready for the world.. well almost. Still need to make this mug look a little pretty. I am still sporting that sleepy scary morning look. Here in a few I will wake my snoring daughter, pump up some good music, clean up a little in here, start dinner, pack up for a session and enjoy the day that God has planned for me
This weekend we celebrated our sons birthday- that little turd turned FOUR! Here is a sweet pic of my little man.. Love you lots buddy! You make my heart smile so much! I hate seeing you get bigger but enjoy the person you are becoming. You are such a sweet loving gift!
(this image is from my non- work camera. meaning I am just capturing that day from something i do not need to think about. exposure, settings, aperture, lens, etc.. its just me enjoying my moments- so there fore these images will not be textbook perfect!)
as much as he can drive me a little coo-coo, i love him more!! I so wish I could bottle him up. He can say and do the sweetest things! Like for an example… he is sitting at the bar, not eating his cereal that he begged for and is singing… ” good morning mom, good morning sun, good morning toys, good morning owl”……….no idea where the owl part came from, but its still cute!
well… I guess it’s that time. I hope you all have a great Tuesday. And if not, do what I do and break into that chocolate stash you have hidden in the corner of your closet and eat in peace!
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A Perfect Texan Family | North Idaho Family Photographer
Posted on August 16, 2010
Dallas Texas! The land of HOT BLAZING sun, cowboys, boots, and…….this perfect family! Meet the “G” family. They have some super sweet family up here in Idaho (one of my FAVE clients and during their visit they contacted me for a family photo at the Seasons.
Sounds familiar?? Yeah.. this sweet family was the victims of my water accident. If you missed that post… go back a few blog posts and read all about it. It will sure make you giggle. Over all, it was a great session. This WHOLE family was so amazing! And so Picture Perfect!!
Here are a few of my fave images!!
C, B, A and C.. thank you all so much for a great session. You were all so wonderful… and so understanding.. and non-judging LOL! I hope you had a wonderful visit up here!
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THAT was hilarious! Great to see you yesterday. You are awesome. Good luck with the homeschooling. I’ll be thinking of you!
LOVE this! and good luck with that-I’d for sure be on the news the first day of home schooling for losing my mind lol