Nicole Jones Photography

TX School - Day 1

2010-05-03T05:29:00.000-07:00

I'M HERE!!!!!!!!!!!!! I'M FINALLY HERE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! As some of you may or may not know, I'm on a business trip - vacation!! I had the chance to come to Dallas for the BIGGEST, BEST week long photography education I could get! I'm super excited and I'll post things as the week goes on. Quick stats - this is the 2nd year in a row that the school surpassed 1,000 people - we have 1,088 people here educating themselves, learning more and then taking their business to the next level. Out of those 1,088, we have 39 different states represented and 4 different foreign countried - the furthest being Pakistan. We also have a 14 year old boy here learning photoshop the entire week!
Last night was the orientation, a FREE meal of yummy BBQ, and getting aquainted with the teacher!!! FUN ALREADY!!!!
I want to take a quick minute to thank my customers, friends, and family who supported me the last year and got me to where I am now. I am here for YOU, because I want to take my business to the next level, I want to educate myself until my brain is going to explode so I can be the best photographer you will ever want! :)
Have a great day and I will try to post pictures later when I get a break!

Happy Thanksgiving!

2009-11-25T21:54:00.000-08:00

Just wanted to take a moment to wish you all a Happy and Blessed Thanksgiving holiday!
Nicole

The Alexander Girls

2009-11-19T10:32:00.000-08:00

I had the priviledge of photographing 3 of the cutest girls in Brazoria County!

Book your session NOW before I book up. Sessions are $30. for a 30 minute session. If your child needs time to "warm up" before hand - let me know and I can allow time for that. I can meet you at your location of your choice, or you can come on down to West Columbia, and I can Freeze Time for YOU there!

Christmas Special - A Hero's Christmas!

2009-11-11T10:37:00.000-08:00

Sessions start at $30.00 for a 30 minute session. You can come to my set (outdoor location) in West Columbia, or I can come to you to capture the decorations at your house, or other location. (This price is good for Brazoria County - other counties will have additional fees). Contact me for groups 5 or more.

You can purchase your individual prints from me or you can purchase a CD of your top 7 images for $30.00. If you purchase the CD, you can print your pictures anywhere you choose and create other gifts for family/friends. I can also create your Christmas Cards for you.

This year I will be adopting a soldier for the holidays. So, if you donate any items for my soldier then I'll give you a 10% discount! These ideas have been given to me by the Moms and Wives of Brazoria County.
Items include:
Hot Pot (Target or Walgreens) NOT a crock pot.
Comics from the newspaper (I certainly didn’t think of this, but what a great idea!)
Christmas Cards (addressed to An American Soldier)
Batteries (AA) and (AAA)
Disposable Cameras
Playing Cards
Black Sharpies Only
Crossword Puzzles (books)
Magazines (sports, auto, hunting, fishing, etc.)
Peanut Butter (small sizes only)
Beef Jerky
Bubble Gum
Sunflower Seeds, Chips and Fritos (in canisters)
Bean Dip
Cheese crackers
Cereal (small kid boxes)
Canned or dried fruit
Pop tarts
Cookies (small snack size (no chocolate)
Rice Krispy snacks
Crystal Light, Kool Aid, sugar free (single packs only)
Granola bars
Lollipops/suckers
Chili – can
Coffee and creamer single packs
Zip lock baggies (quart and gallon)
Starkist tuna lunch kit
Small packs of Q-tips
Nail clippers
White ankle socks
Mid-calf white socks
Toilet paper
Sunblock
Feminine Hygiene products
Eye Drops
Kleenex (travel size packets)

Print Prices:
4X6 $3.00
5X7 $5.00
8X10 $8.00
11X14 $12.00
16X20 $20.00

Nicole Jones Photography
(979) 235-0287
NicoleJonesPhotography@yahoo.com
Friend me on FaceBook!

Monique's Christmas

2009-11-11T10:35:00.001-08:00

Here are some of my stepdaughter. She's such a poser, so I had a lot of fun with her!

To book your sessions, contact me at 979-235-0287 or email me at NicoleJonesPhotography@yahoo.com

Chase - Christmas!

2009-11-11T10:28:00.000-08:00

This weekend, I got started on my Christmas sessions. Here are a couple of pictures of my son. Sessions are starting to book, so book early and beat the rush!

Our AWESOME Firemen!!!

2009-10-28T10:07:00.000-07:00

I had a chance to photography our AMAZING Firemen in West Columbia, TX!

They were very nice and cooperative!!

Here are just a few of the session!

And, these fine young men have retired from the Fire Department!!! Thanks, men, for all that you do for us! For risking your lives to save the ones you don't even know!

Roughneck Practice

2009-10-13T10:39:00.000-07:00

On Wednesday's, Chase usually doesn’t have any homework (thanks Ms. Kaspar!), so we like to do something different when we have a free evening! This time, we went up to the field to catch a little bit of practice from the hometown football players! They are getting pumped up to play Needville this Friday night!Unfortunately, they don’t wear their jerseys with their numbers on it at practice. Here is one that I really like:

This one I just like – the ball is in mid air, but no one is around it! :)

I don’t even know what to say…GOOD JOB COACH!!

Nikki's Wedding

2009-09-16T10:14:00.001-07:00

All right, I know some of you have been stalking the blog for this..... :)
This past weekend, I drove up to Montgomery and I photographed a beautiful bride with a big, funny family! LOL

Here are some of the pictures for a teaser!

I drove by Lake Conroe and it was GORGEOUS! It was misting rain when I drove by and there were still people out there!!

New Color!

2009-09-09T10:29:00.001-07:00

Well, I decided enough was enough. I was tired of being dark haired so I tried to lighten it up. I wanted Red and it came out a really pretty shade of mahogany brown.
Before:

After: Not a great picture, but I was doing a self-portrait as well! :)

Elizabeth is 6!!

2009-08-18T11:00:00.000-07:00

This weekend, we went to a birthday party for a dear little princess! Her theme was Candy Land and it was so completely adorable and unique! Melissa, you are so creative!

Here is the birthday girl with her mom!

Chase having some fun on the water slide!

Natalie and her mom!

Aunt Misty and Julianna!

Roughnecks vs. Wild Cats Scrimmage

2009-08-18T10:54:00.001-07:00

I had the chance to cover another scrimmage between West Columbia and Angleton! It was good, but H-O-T! I don't know how those guys do it!

I hope we see a lot of these this season!!! :)

If you look close the guy in the right side of the picture is up off the ground - he is ready!

Nothing like a little leg to face action in the pre-season! We can take it though!

GO ROUGHNECKS!

Roughneck Scrimmage!

2009-08-09T08:09:00.000-07:00

I had a chance to see the Roughneck Scrimmage yesterday morning and it was good. I can't wait to see the 1st game of the season!!!

The victory Dance....

Boys!!!!

2009-08-01T15:07:00.000-07:00

This deserved a post all on it's own!!! Dare I say, the middle man is the PASTOR!! Trey is one of the best men that I've met in a long time! He's an incredible Christian and has a heart of gold! He is also best friends with both men holding, well, his tushy! :) These guys are so funny to be around and I hit it off well with them, b/c they're like me! :) Goofy!!!

And, one for Emily! :)

Portraits from the Wedding!

2009-08-01T14:37:00.000-07:00

Let me just say, I'm so glad to have a new sister in law and I'm so excited for her - this is such a brand new experience for her! New marriage, new house...so exciting!

Here are a few pictures that I took at her wedding.

A cherished moment with Daddy!

Emily and her new nephew and niece!!!!

David took this one of me and my new sister in law, both of us are holding a bottle of Jones Cream Soda--something that is actually hard to find this time of year in bulk! :) Thanks Julian for finding these!!! I'm so happy to have you in the family Emily!!!!

What a Weekend!!!

2009-07-25T17:53:00.000-07:00

Ok, so first we get to stay in a very nice hotel. It's a Holiday Inn, but it's a suite and very nice! :)

This was taken as I was lounging at the pool!!!

Chase being silly in the pool! :)

More 4th of July (Wii style)

2009-07-07T10:24:00.001-07:00

David's parents cooked over the 4th, so we got to be with some family over the holiday!
Here are a few from there!

Chase and Aunt Emily boxing!

Monique trying to help Chase win against Uncle Chris in boxing! (Chris did win - even though his eyes were covered)

Chris beating up his OWN mom in Boxing!!

Shark Slip N Slide

2009-07-07T10:18:00.000-07:00

Monique's friend, Kristin, came over one day and they had so much fun!!!! Who CAN'T have fun when a slip and slide is involved!?

1st Annual Fireworks in WC!

2009-07-07T10:12:00.000-07:00

We had our 1st annual fireworks display in West Columbia Friday night! It was great! I wanted to tell all involved you did a great job!!!

The Dog Days of Summer!

2009-07-02T09:55:00.000-07:00

Last night, we had the dogs out in the front with us and they had a blast. Daisy (my dog) doesn't like water too much, so she stayed away from the sprinklers...but Sadie...no problem!!!!!

Daisy has no "off" switch. Even after David put the ball up so they could cool down, she STILL wanted it!!!!

Theresa

2009-07-01T10:25:00.000-07:00

And, meet Theresa!!

She had her session in the morning and the sunrise was gorgeous! Theresa, I hope you love them as much as I loved shooting them! You really knew how to work the camera Girl! It was great to meet you!

Rachel's Sunset Session

2009-07-01T10:17:00.000-07:00

I had several sessions at the beach this last weekend, and what a great weekend down there...

I know Rachel has been waiting for these, isn't she gorgeous?!

My Skin!?!?!

2009-06-20T17:57:00.001-07:00

Well, just wanted to toss this picture out - more details to come later. David took it...don't know if you can see the purple areas or not, but it's B-A-D. Obviously, I shouldn't have put sun screen on and then jumped in the pool!!!

Fishing Fun

2009-06-07T09:26:00.000-07:00

Last weekend, David went fishing and caught some really big fish! Here are a couple!

Summer Shark Slip & Slidin'!!

2009-06-06T10:27:00.000-07:00

We've been stalking 4 different Wal Mart stores here looking for the 3D Shark Slip N Slide that was new since Chase graduated last week. We finally found one in Academy yesterday. So, we got it and had it set up for fun last night. When you put on the special 3D goggles and slide down the mat, it will look like you're going straight into down the shark's throat!!! The kids LOVED it last night!

It ate Chase but Chase made it back out of the shark's mouth!!

Monique's excited to have made it back out - she said the shark threw her back up!

May 16th game

2009-06-01T10:58:00.001-07:00

We had a baseball game on Saturday and it was great. Our team played better than they had all season and we were up against the best. Our game ended up tying (because we play on a time limit and not till someone un-ties the game).

This bat ended up about a foot away from me.....

Chase made it - can you believe it....he was hot on the trail of my boy!

I LOVE shots like this!!!!!

2009-05-26T16:49:00.000-07:00

Here are a couple more for ya!

Isn't her family gorgeous?

Sharon

2009-05-26T16:14:00.000-07:00

I had the chance to photograph Sharon and her beautiful kids! Here is a quick picture to hold you over!

New Camera!!!

2009-05-17T17:35:00.000-07:00

I've ordered a new camera and it's on it's way!!! I can't wait!! I haven't had a new camera for 10 years!!! It'll be like Christmas when I get it. I'll be taking pictures galore and posting them for you! I know I haven't posted any pictures recently. Since Ma's passing, we've been wrapped up with baseball and that's coming to an end this week. Also coming to an end soon is SCHOOL!!! Chase and Monique will be so completely bored!! We'll be keeping them busy for sure!!
You know I'll be posting this week when the camera finally arrives!!
Write to you soon!

We've Said Farewell.....

2009-05-06T14:02:00.000-07:00

The funeral is over and the graveside services are over. We have said our farewell to Ma, as we call her. The food has been divided among houses, and the out of town family has gone back to their hometowns. This is when the grief will begin to set in, when you're no longer enjoying long-lost relatives over cokes and desserts and banana pudding (it was REALLY GOOD pudding). I thank you all for the well wishes and the prayers and the thoughts that were coming our way. Please be in prayer for the next 12 hours or so, as our Uncle Bubba, Aunt Stephanie, Mark Steven, and Jeff all travel back to Oklahoma. After the service, I definitely am going to be looking at my life a little differently - as to who and what and how I live my life from this point on.

My sweet Grandma...

2009-05-04T07:32:00.001-07:00

Technically, it's David's grandma, but she adopted me 14 years ago!! Our sweet Ma passed away this morning after a short battle with cancer. She was an amazing mom, grandma, great-grandma, sister, friend and most importantly an AMAZING Christian. She'll be missed by all that knew her. I ask that you keep us all in your prayers as we deal with the emotions that we carry.
Love,
Nicole

Texas School of Photography

2009-05-03T06:08:00.000-07:00

I'm about to head out for the Texas School of Photography!! I'm so excited and nervous! This is my first year to attend and I'm not sure of where to go and what to do, but once I get there, I'll have the packet in hand and they have a ton of people to point me in the right direction! I'll try to post throughout the week of what is going on.
I'll be attending a wedding class and learning from a dynamic duo!!! Stay tuned!!
Nicole

Tomorrow

2009-05-01T20:34:00.000-07:00

Saturday is Pride Day in Sweeny. I encourage everyone local to run by and take a look at our vendors out there and enjoy the carnival that will be there! I'm going to make an appearance out there and will be around. But, I've got to get packing for my upcoming trip! I'll be leaving Sunday morning to attend the best photography school in Texas!! I'm so incredibly excited about it!

Belles!

2009-04-28T17:11:00.000-07:00

I had a chance to photograph just a few of the beautiful Belles of the Brazos. Enjoy!

Here is Condra Wilson and her escort Dylan Duke.

A picture of all the gorgeous girls!

Mackenzie's Session

2009-04-12T13:20:00.000-07:00

It's been awhile since I posted, but I've been busssyyyy!

I had this sweet, beautiful little girl in bluebonnets. Mackenzie is a sweet natured little girl and was a poser. Here is a couple from her shoot. I couldn't pick just 3 or 4 so there are a few more than usual.

This is TOTALLY my favorite!!!!

Thanks Mackenzie for being so cooperative!!!! :)

April Showers Bring...Bluebonnets!!

2009-04-02T10:39:00.000-07:00

Chase and I went out to check the bluebonnets and they are simply beautiful..they are drinking up the rain we've had. I have a few appointments left for this weekend to capture your little one (or you) with this rare flower!

Email me or call me to set up your appointment!
NicoleJonesPhotography@yahoo.com

(979) 235-0287

Here is a picture of Chase modeling for me in the bluebonnets - he chose the spot where he wanted to sit!

March 29th

2009-04-02T10:34:00.000-07:00

David had been chomping at the bit to go fishing, and he finally found a day where we didn't have anything to do and the weather was nice! So, right before they got in the truck, I took a picture of Chase.

I asked him how big of a fish he was going to catch:

When they got home, Chase told me he'd caught a couple of sheep head, a couple of hard heads, and had a lot of fun --- you can't beat that!!!

John Deere Green

2009-03-28T18:59:00.000-07:00

Our lawn mower conked out -- well, a long time ago. SOOOO, today we went to get a brand new mower. We've never had a new one before..always hand me downs! :)

Stay Tuned....

2009-03-21T20:07:00.001-07:00

I'm in the process of getting an "exclusive" interview with one of the candidates, Melissa M. Alexander, running for the Columbia-Brazoria ISD Position 2!!! Can't wait to see what she has to say!

A Butterfly Emerges -Picture

2009-03-21T20:01:00.000-07:00

Here is the picture that I was talking about while explaining the release of the Monarch butterflies. Isn't this beautiful!?! It was such an incredibly beautiful experience for me and my children to see. Thank you, Michelle, for taking the pictures for me to hold onto forever!

March 19th

2009-03-21T19:46:00.000-07:00

I had an engagement shoot last night of my favorite brother – in – law (OK, my only) and his extremely beautiful and talented fiancé! Here are a few pictures until I get them up on the website! Enjoy guys and I love you both!

March 17th

2009-03-21T19:42:00.000-07:00

David got a call from Monique’s teacher – it wasn’t bad!!!

MONIQUE PASSED THE READING PORTION OF HER TAKS TEST!!!!!!!
We are so VERY proud of Monique, and are so glad that she passed. For those that don’t know, my step-daughter was recently diagnosed with Dyslexia and since she’s been diagnosed, she has come to love reading and listening to stories! I want to personally thank the wonderful people at Sylvan Learning Center for catching it and her dyslexia teacher for being so supportive and informative!!!!!

March 14th-Sad News

2009-03-21T19:35:00.000-07:00

Sad news! On March 12th, a dear friend and my personal real estate agent passed away. This was very sudden and very tragic as she leaves behind a son and a husband and numerous people that loved her! Jean will be severely missed by all who knew her and loved her. She is the one that worked with us long and hard until we found the house we’d been dreaming of – her Mamma’s house! Her Mamma passed away and she just “knew” this house was the one for us! She was right! Ever since we moved in, David and I have been at peace with our new house and LOVING it! Thanks Jean, for all the things you did and for finding our dream house for us! Please say a quick prayer for Jean’s family who are still here to mourn the loss of our beautiful, funny, head-strong Jean!Here is a picture of Jean in the back yard of our house, with her favorite flowers, the Birds of Paradise!

Happy to Announce!!

2009-03-19T18:22:00.000-07:00

A Butterfly Emerges.....

I’m so incredibly excited to announce that I’ve started my photography business, Nicole Jones Photography. I’m an on-location photographer based in West Columbia, which means that my studio is wherever my camera and I go! I specialize in many types of photography, including, but not limited to: portrait, infant, seniors, career, sports, wedding, maternity, and events (such as birthday parties or reunions). I keep my fees low and competitive, so that you can afford to preserve the memories you cherish. I will travel within an hour of West Columbia without any extra charge to you.

You may wonder why I entitled this “A Butterfly Emerges”…well, there’s a story behind it. My mom was INCREDIBLY PASSIONATE about butterflies and she was always encouraging me to start my business. Well, it took her death to make me realize that I needed to come forward and start preserving memories for other people…which is why I want to freeze time for you! When my mom had been gone for a year, all of my family met at her graveside and released Monarch butterflies! It was so incredibly beautiful, nothing I’d ever see before. In fact, I get chills thinking about it, but one Monarch landed in my hair and my sister, thankfully, caught that moment on camera for me to treasure forever!!!

As I step out of my cocoon, please step out of your cocoon as well and enjoy a NEW photographic experience!! So, everyone please go to my website and become a follower on my blog so that I can see you out there! Leave comments on pictures, I love to hear your feedback, even if the picture is not of you! Be watching for specials and deals coming your way!
http://nicolejonesphotography.blogspot.com www.nicolejonesphotography.smugmug.com

What a Lazy Sunday!

2009-03-15T16:59:00.000-07:00

Boy, did I get bored today! With the weather being so yucky cold and wet, I stayed in all day. David went fishing this morning (because he's glutton for punishment!)! No, seriously, he had fun but it was coooolllldddd! Anyway, today David cut Chase's hair. What a mohawk!!!!!

No, we didn't leave it that way, but he liked it while it lasted! :)

So, as I'm taking the sheets off the bed and dusting in the bedroom, I look out the window and see squirells. There were 2 squirells that was playing in the yard and finding food, during a break in the rain.

Then, later as I was putting sheets on the bed, I saw my dog, Daisy, doing goodness-knows-what on a stack of sticks that we have out there. This was the exact spot that the squirells were playing on, so Daisy must've smelled it!

Well, of course, I couldn't just leave her alone. I opened the window and me and Chase were talking to her. She jumped up and put her feet on the ledge so she could see us. Too cute! Sorry, it's a little blurry - I had to take all these through the screen.

Forgot one!

2009-03-13T10:52:00.001-07:00

Ah, I forgot one! This is what Monique does when you tell her to stand there and look cute!! What can I say!??!?!

I'm in pictures!

2009-03-13T10:46:00.000-07:00

I rarely get in the picture, but David's been really good lately about putting me in them!! So, thanks David for getting behind the camera so I can be in FRONT of the camera!!

Here are a few from that same weekend!
Monique always does bunny ears - so I had to get her back!

March 8th, Part 2

2009-03-13T10:30:00.000-07:00

After the game, we had about 3 hours to kill before we took Monique back. Not enough time to go home and too long to just go out to eat. So…..we went to Barnes and Noble which is my favorite stores! Then, we went to a park. This one was so nice and had………BLUEBONNETS!!!!!! So, of course, I threw the kids in the bluebonnets!! There were a bunch of bees in this group, so I didn't let them spend too much time in the flowers.

And, of course, Monique had to roll down the hill!!!
Oh to be this relaxed again!!!

March 8th, Part 1

2009-03-13T10:22:00.001-07:00

This day started out with Monique’s 1st soccer game of the season. She did really well and her team did awesome!!

This is what Monique sometimes does when she's not playing! I usually catch her doing something crazy! :)

Monique with David and Chase after the game!

March 7, 2009 Recap

2009-03-13T10:06:00.000-07:00

OK, so what a busy weekend it was! Saturday, we started out going to the Market Days where we got delicious tamales from the Project Graduation ladies! They had a little of everything out there, beautiful hand-made bows, fresh fruits and vegetables, hand-made bird houses, too much!! We also had the 3rd annual Spring Fling at the Elementary School. There were games and delicious food, entertainment, and even a train ride! There was also a raffle for some nice prizes and a silent auction – which your’s truly participated in! A HUGE thanks to all the parents and teachers for all your hard work that went in to making this event such a success! Also, a big Thanks to the donors that donated something to the silent auction. And a GINORMOUS thanks to Steve and Melinda who made the event happen (and the delicious BBQ)!!!!!

Chase won several fish on a game!!!

I also caught Melissa Alexander giving up her time to be on the serving line at the Spring Fling! Melissa is running for Position 2 for the CBISD board. She’s a great woman, an awesome mom of 3 girls and truly will make a difference on the board!

We had awesome performances by Dance Warehouse! If you want to learn more about Dance Warehouse, please go to:

http://www.warehousedance.com/

Announcement!!!!!

2009-03-07T18:50:00.000-08:00

I’m super excited to announce that I’m starting my own photography business – Nicole Jones Photography! This is a venture that my mom encouraged me to take long ago, and 2 ½ years after her death, I’ve finally decided to take the leap!

For now, I will be an on-location photographer. This simply means that I will not work out of a studio in a home or office environment. We stopped doing studio portraits a long time ago, as I just got tired of the same old backgrounds. Also, by the time that my kids warmed up to the photographer, the session was almost over! My kids were always happier in their own environment or outside, so that is my train of thought. It may work out in the future, that I turn to a studio in my home or getting my own space, but for now, I think that God is calling me to be on-location. I specialize in many types of photography, but the true calling for this business is to freeze time for you and your family.

Now that you've found my blog, please log on and become a follower so that I know you’re out there and reading! I’ve recently gotten my website and I'll be adding new pictures soon. I really LOVE being behind the camera, NOT the computer. True art is the art that comes from the photographer’s eye and camera, not the computer later.

In the coming weeks and months, I will be adding more features and offering specials. So, please be watching the blog or your email for those. You’ll be seeing plenty of sports pictures on the blog and on the website coming up, please don’t think that is all I do. I am available for children’s portraits, family, maternity, weddings, and events (such as birthday parties).

Since I’m on–location, my “studio” is basically wherever my camera and I show up to. That being said, I’ll travel within 45 minutes from West Columbia with no extra charge to you. This includes Brazoria, Ft. Bend, Matagorda, and the edge of Galveston counties. Any further than that (such as Harris County), there will be a $10.00 charge.

The Next Craig Biggio

2009-03-02T10:36:00.000-08:00

For those that don't know who Craig Biggio - he was (he retired from the Astros) a very talented and cute baseball player.
Here is a picture from mlb.com for those that doesn't know what he looks like:

Here is MY Craig Biggio....... :)

His team starts practice next week, so you'll be seeing lots of those! David is the coach, and I'm the Team Mom! So exciting!!!

Ending of February

2009-02-27T10:02:00.000-08:00

Well, as you can see, I’ve been missing in action lately. I’ve had a lot of things happen recently, both personally and professionally. Here are a few pictures from two weekends ago:

David grabbed the camera and took some of me playing with her too!! Thanks David-Love ya!!!!!!
Monique is getting so much better. She said that she doesn't have a volleyball at her mom's house, so it's good to know that she's getting plenty of practice with us when she's here! I think she starts practice next week!!

We have this tree in the front yard that we have no idea what it is. Granted, we moved into our new house in August of 2008, so we are still trying to figure out those little details. Here is a couple of pictures. If anyone knows what this is, please comment on it!! Thanks!

We finally had some rain this week, which is probably why the tree has suddenly blossomed!

We have about 176 counties right now in Texas that are under a mild-severe drought, so all the rain right now is needed!!!

Baseball on Sunday

2009-02-15T15:44:00.000-08:00

We are gearing up for Baseball season. Try-outs and drafting is this next Saturday and then practice will start. So, we were out several times over the weekend trying to get Chase in shape.

Love is in the Air!!

2009-02-15T15:39:00.000-08:00

Today was a gorgeous day! We drove up to Eagle Lake to see my Aunt and had a great little road trip. Here is a picture of me and Chase together on Valentine's Day! Also, is David and Chase.

Chase told me that I was his Valentine!!! So cute!!!!!!!

Sunset on Friday

2009-02-15T15:37:00.001-08:00

There was a beautiful sunset on Friday. I caught this on the way home...enjoy!

Preparing for V-day! (Thursday)

2009-02-15T07:21:00.000-08:00

My mother-in-law offered (thankfully) to help Chase with his Valentine's Box that he needed for school on Friday. She is sooooo incredibly creative, although most of the time she denies it. Here is a picture of Chase holding his beautiful box.

Thank you Donna for helping him - it turned out great!!!!

God at work in the morning

2009-02-12T16:28:00.000-08:00

This morning I was headed to work later than normal. When I head to work later (usually I get to work before the sun rises), I watch for sunrises. I saw this amazing sight this morning.

Box Tops and PTO Stuff

2009-02-11T18:08:00.000-08:00

Last night and tonight I've worked on PTO stuff - I'm in charge of the Box Tops, Campbells labels, Tyson labels, and Nestle labels (that come from water bottles). Anyway, our school has done really good this year, especially compared to last year. If you would like to save any of your box tops or labels from other products you can certainly save them for me and I can turn them into Chase's school.

For those of you that don't know what these look like, here you go:

If at any time, you have questions or would like to know other products that these are found on, you can go to the following websites. These labels and box tops that the school receives, I bundle up, and send off to the respective companies. They give us so much money per label that we send in - basically free money for the school to help our kiddos!

http://www.boxtops4education.com/Default.aspx

http://www.labelsforeducation.com/

http://www.tyson.com/projectaplus/

If you would like to save these for me, I will either come get them if you're local or maybe you could send them to me via mail.

Science Night

2009-02-09T17:53:00.000-08:00

Tonight Chase's school put on a Simply Science Night. It was really cool! The Museum of Natural Science came out with this AWESOME inflated dome! You sit on the floor in the dome and watch a movie that is overhead, totally cool! Here is a picture of Chase in front of the dome! There were also large telescopes out that you could look in and several science experiments that you could do! Really a fun night!

Cookie Update/New Sport Coming Up

2009-02-08T17:38:00.000-08:00

For all that ordered Girl Scout Cookies from Monique, they should be in the weekend of the 20th!
Also, we found out over the weekend, that Monique was going to playing soccer after all. Her mom hasn't told us, we actually got an email from the coach that she was signed up. So, this season, you all will get a variety of sports from me!
Baseball, volleyball, softball (one of my best friend's daughter is signed up), and soccer. I'm also working to get a contract for a Golf Tournament. I'm very excited and thankful about all these opportunities!!!

2009-02-08T15:58:00.000-08:00

OK, so here's why I think I don't post pictures on a daily basis....I LOVE taking pictures - capturing images to last a lifetime and beyond....I just don't like sitting at the computer!!

Anyway, here are some from the week....

Chase never used to like pajamas - and now we're in Pajama mode!!

Chase had a project due Friday for the 100th day of school, which happens to be February 10th. His number was 28 and he had to decorate the number creatively. Well, being that we live in a house with an outdoorsmen, David thought he'd use fishing lures in order to show the number! Well, of course, Chase LOVED the idea so we did it - this is the final product.As you know, I've started the New York Institute of Photography course, and the number one thing that point out, is that we overlook all the beauty that we see everyday. We know the things that we see everyday, and we may even comment that it's beautiful or unique, but do we really SEE it. Anyway, they say it better than I do, but I began to open my eyes to the things around me, things that I see everyday that I may not really See anymore. Besides work, the large portion of my day is my commute. I work in Sugar Land, which means that I have an hour commute to and from work, which is where I'm listening to my CD's at for school!! I decided that you guys can see what I see on a daily basis.

On Thursday, after I picked Chase up, we decided to go to the city park for awhile. I had an assignment to do there, so we mixed business with Chase's pleasure by getting to play on the playground! We were taking pictures, though together - I can never have too many of those!

On Saturday, we took the kids to the Harbor in Freeport, here are a few pictures from there. It was super windy, and we didn't get the kids in the water - the water temperature was in the 60's!!!

Isn't this a beautiful shot?!?! I've been fascinated with these type images for awhile now....

The haze that you see at the horizon line is actually the salt in the air and the wind kicking up sand. Crazy!

My mom would've had a cow at this picture! She wouldn't want the kids to be sitting so close to the water!

Sports

2009-02-03T10:04:00.001-08:00

I thought I'd post a few sports-y pictures from over the weekend...

Of course, there are pictues of Monique playing Volleyball and Chase with baseball!! :) That's my life!

One other picture I wanted to leave with you is this one:
I took Monique back on Sunday night and this is one of the awesome sunset pictures I got.

Enjoy!

Catching Up

2009-02-01T18:05:00.001-08:00

We had a busy week this week, Monday I had a PTO meeting, Tues, Wedn. I walked in the neighborhood. Thursday I skipped walking, but felt guilty for not doing it so I walked Friday, Saturday, and twice today!!! :) I also had to deal with a spyware problem that found it's way onto our computer, so that slowed me down loading pictures.

Anyway, I had quite a few pictures to share this week so let me get started!

David washed my car today for me so that I would take Monique back - today is Superbowl Sunday after all!!!! :)

Instead of taking Daisy with me on the walk, I took the kids with me. They wanted to ride their bikes, but I knew I couldn't keep up with that - so scooters it was! LOL

Typical of my walks, I have to stop my great friend, Melissa's house. Here she is looking all cute!

Doesn't she have gorgeous girls!?!?

Also, I've walked and driven through my neighborhood for months, and never noticed these trees before..most unusual.....

Also, I got a good one of the kids this afternoon while we were watching a movie!!!
Happy reading and I'll post more soon...I have to do my wifely duty and watch the last 2.30 minutes of the Super Bowl!!!!

Girl Scout Cookies are Here!!

2009-01-25T14:25:00.000-08:00

I wanted to put a post out to all my faithful readers that girl scout cookies are being sold right now. They have lots of good flavors and some are reduced fat as well!! Monique was selling them as well as 2 of my closer friends. So, if you don't have a girl scout to buy from, contact me and I can find someone for you to buy from.

Nancy B.

2009-01-24T18:09:00.001-08:00

Before my camera broke, I did a great photo shoot for a friend of mine, Nancy. She was wanting some pictures of her, her daughter, and granddaughter--but it turned out so much better than that! She also had her husband, son, and her mom in there!! It was great!!!

Here are a few:

Is she just the cutest little girl!?!?! I love her dress!!

Thank you Nancy for giving me the opportunity to take pictures of your beautiful family! I am honored I was able to freeze this moment for you to cherish for years to come!!

Playing Catch Up

2009-01-22T17:41:00.000-08:00

What a crazy couple of days!! I've been taking pictures (over the weekend, especially), but haven't had time to post them. Sunday, we all got outside and played the kid's "preferred" sports. For Monique, that's Volleyball and for Chase, that's baseball. Monique was super good at baseball, though, we may havge to find her a softball camp for the summer.

Doesn't that look crazy?! It makes my arm ache!

I had time to play with Daisy, so here are a couple of her.

Also, David went hunting and here is a picture of what him and his buddy shot!

Monday was an exhausting day! David was home sick, and Chase had a dental ckeck-up so I was on the road from 11:45-7:30!! Of course, that means that I missed bible study again! :(

I had this picture that I wanted to throw in...Chase and I don't get many pictures together!

Lazy Day for the Kids

2009-01-17T17:21:00.001-08:00

Well, today I had to go to work - so I was up super early this morning. When I walked in the door, David looked at me all pitiful and said "I have a headache and it won't go away!" He is getting sick, so I took pity on him and I went on Mommy Duty! Which wasn't difficult at first--this is all Chase wanted to do, since Monique had homework to do!

Monique doing her homework..on a weekend...... :(

Monique has Glasses!

2009-01-16T18:48:00.001-08:00

Monique came back home today and she has new glasses. Getting the glasses has helped her read the board at school better, but not with her reading in general. Here is a picture of her and David this evening.

Gosh, she has grown up sooo much!!!! Have a great weekend!

Esther - It's Tough Being a Woman

2009-01-15T18:01:00.000-08:00

Well, now that I have my first picture for the 365 Project, let's see what I am trying to do tonight. I'm in the 2nd week of a Bible study by Beth Moore. The more I learn about the book of Esther - the more I will try to pass on to you out there.

This is the cover of the study - and so far, I'm keeping up with the homework!! :)

365 Project - Here I Come! 1/14/09

2009-01-15T17:51:00.000-08:00

OK, a fellow photographer friend has inspired me to join in on the 365 Project! So, here it is: the objective is to post a picture a day (some choose to post all at the end of the week to make it easier, others every day). This is for me, the photographer, to have a sort-of journal of the last year. This is also for you, my faithful readers, to keep up with things in my life, things that interest me, or things that I think will interest YOU! It's also to help me to be a better photographer - I only want to pass the best pictures on to you - so I'll be trying hard to get those!

So, here is a picture of yesterday (1/14/09) on the way home:

This picture I took in Damon with David's camera on the way home from work. The white birds out in the field are snow geese that I've been stalking for a couple of days. They were finally close enough to the road to get this picture (David's camera has a built-in zoom, not a zoom lens).

I have Internet!!!!!!

2009-01-12T12:40:00.001-08:00

OK, the last person on Earth has finally gotten internet at home! I now feel like I'm a big girl! :) So, what this means to you all my cyber-friends, is that I can now talk to you on a more regular basis! I can post more freely as my J-O-B doesn't really like me posting...solmething about Corporate Policy! LOL

Here is a favorite that I just happened to take this afternoon--Just because I'm without my professional camera, doesn't mean I'm not taking pictures.

Chase, my son, sold enough items at his school fundraiser so he earned a trip on a LIMO (the HUMMER LIMO).

Melissa and her sweet daughter - who sold the most in the ENTIRE school!!!!!!!

Mommy and Chase

I'm So Thankful!!!!!

2008-12-17T10:08:00.000-08:00

What a crazy 2 days it's been!!!! Yesterday afternoon, I turned on my camera to take some pictures of a really cool door that my department and I had decorated for a contest and my CAMERA WOULDN'T COME ON!!!!! End of the world for those that know me! Anyway, I rush over to my favorite place Wolf Camera (also known as Ritz Camera. Obviously my warranty is out on the camera, but good news that the step above the camera I had, is ON SALE!! HMMMMM, Merry Christmas to me right!?! I'm still trying to figure out how I'm going to get that.....
Anway, you're probably wondering why I'm so Thankful, then right?! Well, this morning, I'm sitting at work and a friend of mine and one of my best friends in the whole world has just had an accident coming to work! She seems to be OK, but complaining of shoulder pain. So, I drive my friend (who happens to be the mom of the friend of that had the accident) to the hospital. We pull up just as the ambulance is unloading her. So, we rush inside and wait to see what is going on. Details are a little sketch, but basically my friend and her daughter got tossed around in the car a lot. The daughter is fine, a little bump on her head, but my friend has a sprained shoulder and a possible torn rotator cuff. She has numerous small cuts on her face from where the glass shattered and cut her, but not any huge cuts!! THIS is why I'm so thankful. I'm thankful they weren't hurt, they were responsible enough to wear seat belts, and that --although her injuries are painful and emotional damage from having an accident this big -- she's alive and walking and talking, and that we still have her here!!!
Now, the breaking of my camera doesn't seem as big as it did yesterday!
I'm loving life and glad you popped over to read! Have a great day!

IT CAME, IT CAME!!!!!!

2008-12-11T10:10:00.000-08:00

My package from the New York Institute of Photography came yesterday in the mail. I would've broken speed records to get home to tear it open, but another surprise happened - SNOW IN TEXAS!!!! It was so much fun!!! Nothing we could build snowmen with, but who cares, it was snow -- in Texas -- in West Columbia!!!

This is one of the fields outside of West Columbia, in Damon Texas!! This was at about 5:15 in the evening!

One more, this is Daisy enjoying the snow, and waiting for me to put down the camera and get her warm!!!

As far as the Institute, I've already read the "introductory" stuff and the letters from the Dean. I've also googled my instructor!!! :)
Thanks for reading.......

LOVE the Christmas Season!!!!

2008-12-10T10:01:00.000-08:00

What beautiful, gorgeous weather we're having!!! This weather makes me want to go Christmas shopping! We spent the weekend putting up the Christmas tree and doing TONS of Christmas activites!! We usually have the tree up earlier, but we were waiting on my Monique (my stepdaughter) to be here when we put the tree up and decorate.

Friday, we picked her up and headed to the Pearland Christmas Festival - it was awesome!! We had a blast there!! Saturday morning, bright and early, we went to the West Columbia Fire Station and had breakfast with Santa.

AND, we all got to ride on the fire truck. It was a little cold, but nothing we couldn't handle!!

Then, we went to Market Days in West Columbia, which is busting at the seems with GREAT Christmas ideas, then off to a birthday party at Chuck E. Cheese for my nephew!!

We put up our Christmas tree mid-day on Saturday and then to the BEST place in this area for Christmas light!! MOODY GARDENS!!
Here are some pictures from there!!

Help me!! Help me!!!

Monkey see, Monkey Do!

Like Father, Like Daughter!!!! :)

Have an amazing Holiday season!!

Follow me!

2008-12-04T10:28:00.000-08:00

You can find out when I update my blog!!! On the right side of the screen, there is a link that you can click that says "Follow this Blog". You may need to have a user name and password, but I'd LOVE to know who is reading what's going on in my world!! It's nice to know that I'm not talking to myself out here!
Another way to let me know you're out there, is to comment on the posts that I write.
Have a great day!!

Christmas Special!

2008-12-04T10:20:00.000-08:00

Well, I've got a special for you!!!
From now until Dec. 31st, you can have a session with me for $45.00 and you will receive a CD of your prints. From that point, you can go to Wal Mart or CVS or anywhere you'd like and make prints for yourself, family, or friends. You can upload them and create special gifts at places such as mouse pads, t-shirts, whatever you like. You will need to sign a model release form so that I can use your prints that I take for my portfolio or advertising.

Most photographers will not charge you a "sitting fee", but will over-charge you for the prints you buy from them. With this deal, you don't have to worry about that!

This deal will only last through the 31st of December of 2008. After that, prices may vary.

Also, keep in mind that I'm an on-location photographer, so I can come to your house and use your Christmas decorations, we can meet at a park, or another destination...that we can talk about when you call to make the appointment.

You can reach me at (979)235-0287 or via email at NicoleJonesPhotography@yahoo.com

I can't wait to freeze a moment in time for you!

1st Hunting Trip

2008-12-02T10:25:00.000-08:00

OK, so as you know, David took me and Chase for our 1st duck hunting trip on Thanksgiving morning! It was pretty foggy, but I managed to get a couple of good shots!

Chase and Daddy in the blind!!

Chase took this one of me!!

Me and Chase getting ready to leave.

We saw a lot that morning, but didn't shoot anything. Mainly, about the time David would look away to explain something to Chase, the birds would fly in - probably laughing!!!

Sadie got to swim around, since she didn't have to "work".

But, don't think that David doesn't have good trips. Him and his friend, JD got this haul this last weekend.

Have an AWESOME day!!

Happy Thanksgiving!!!!!

2008-11-27T11:29:00.001-08:00

Happy Thanksgiving!!! What a great day this has been! David and I got up this morning and got Chase up and we headed to the duck lease. This was Chase's 1st trip to go out there and actually sit in the blind. Once we got home, we gave a quick phone call to my sister in Florida and then over to stuff our faces at my in-laws houses!!

I have some BIG news!!! No, I'm not pregnant. When I say I have big news, someone always asks "are you pregnant!?!" I officially signed up for the New York Institute for Photography!!!!! This is the online correspondence course that I mentioned before that I wanted to sign up for after the first of the year. They raised the tuition so I wanted to get in before that happened.

Anyway, I'll post the pictures of our hunting trip tomorrow or when I get back over here! I'll be getting internet at the house after Christmas probably. David has to get back there (hopefully today) and get a hole drilled in my back room for the internet.

Anyway, have a great day and don't eat too much! Well, what am I saying - you're supposed to eat too much at Thanksgiving.

I AM Alive!

2008-11-20T14:05:00.000-08:00

I just wanted to let everyone know that I was alive and kicking! I had to go to the ER on Sunday night--I have Kidney Stones. This is the worst pain that I've ever felt in my entire life. I'm at my in-laws just checking my email and thought I'd update everyone on where I've been. I'll probably be back at work on Monday. So, hopefully I'll be able to update next week.
Nicole

School's Never Out

2008-11-13T10:07:00.000-08:00

Today, I was going to give you a little of my “education” so-to-speak. Besides, taking pictures for more than 2 decades, I am constantly trying to improve. School’s never out, right?! Well, I’m currently enrolled in a photography class at Brazosport Junior College. In October, I took a Natural Light Photography class. This class taught me tons of information about using natural light and shade to your advantage. And, as you’ve seen from my last post, I took an Intro to Weddings and Bridal Workshop that took place in Austin last weekend!!!!

In May 2009, I’ll be attending for the first time the Texas School of Photography, which will be held in Arlington, TX this year. This is a week-long "school" taught by professionals. You attend 1 class all week long during the days and in the evenings, there is fun, food, and fellowship. And, my ultimate goal is to get signed up for the National Institute of Photography in 2009! This is the ULTIMATE in education in the photography world. It's a school that has been around since 1910 (yes, you read it right) and it's a online course-I'm very excited about this new adventure. BUT, first I have to get past Christmas!!! :)

As you can see, I make photography and learning different aspects a priority in my life. Oh, I almost forgot to tell you that I’m a 2 year Brazoria County fair winner in the photography category. Here is the winning picture from this year!!!

Looking ahead: Monique turns 9 on Saturday! She's going to LOVE the present we have for her!

Wonderful Wedding Weekend!!!

2008-11-11T10:44:00.000-08:00

On Sunday, me, an old friend and a new friend drove to Austin for an Intro to Wedding photography workshop. It was only 3 hours long and well worth the long round trip drive. I'll post a few pics and I'd LOVE to get your feedback!! Here I am in the back of a pick up getting a ride to the beautiful medieval house called Duvegan Keep.

This is the model, Anne, that I loved! She's so beautiful!!!!

I Love this shot - except for the light spot in the corner! I haven't ever touched up my photos, so this photo will probably be the 1st one to touch up, just to see if I CAN do it!!! I believe that photography is art with your camera. Photoshop is art of the computer. I have several opinions about photoshop, but I know there are lots of useful things about it - like getting rid of sun spots!!!

One of the other models there, Luba. She had a very sexy, cat-eye look! I loved it.

That is all for now, I have to get some more work done. Have a great day!

A little about me...

2008-11-04T10:45:00.000-08:00

Well, some of you may or may not know me already, so here are the details of Nicole Jones!
I've been married since July 2000, I have a step daughter (Monique) who is turning 9 this month and a beautiful little boy (Chase) who just turned 6 last month! I have a jump-crazy Golden Retriever named Daisy who is also turning 1 this month!!!

I've been in LOVE with photography since I was a young child. My dad bought me a 110 camera and I've been taking pictures ever since. I took pictures of our cats, dogs, family and friends of course, sunsets and sunrises--and RAIN! :)

My mom, who passed away WAY too soon, encouraged me to go after my dream of having my own photography business, but it wasn't until she passed away that I felt that I NEEDED to do it. I've been procrastinating and have finally decided that I HAVE to do it. I have to start my own business. This does not mean that I'm going to be locked away in a studio and you'll have to bring your children to a some strange place. I am going to be an On-Location Photographer...which means, I go to YOU and your family. I can meet you at a location or I can come to your house, where your kids are already comfortable and freeze time for you! I see this business as really being all about YOU, and freezing a slice of time out for you to have -- long after the babies are grown, graduated, married, and having babies of their own. I specialize in portraits, sports, wedding, and other events. If you have an idea - I'd love to make that happen for you as well!

I'd love to get to know you, but in the mean time, here is a picture of my family, so you can get to know me!

Great Deal for YOU!

2008-11-04T10:38:00.000-08:00

OK, So I've decided I am going to honor what my mom wanted me to be, what she believed I could be more than anything (besides a great mom)! I've waited TOO long as it is....2 years to be exact! I've been scared that I would fail before, but the desire has become too strong. I'm going to branch out and start taking pictures for more than friends and family. For some of you, you knew this was coming! Contact me directly for an AMAZING deal that you won't want to pass up - especially with the holidays around the corner!!!