I have been having way too much fun lately and I feel a need to share this with you, my readers. I have returned to my roots; living a life as uncomplicated as I can possibly make it. I still write all of my blog posts with a well inked fountain pen criss-crossing the pages of my journal. It is only after I have gotten my thoughts onto paper are they then ready to be transcribed into my online blog.

You may ask yourself how this blog, when it does not directly relate to photography, is relevant to photography. Well my faithful reader, the blog is about me, my beliefs as well as my photography. The things which you read in my blog influence my photography. I believe when you hire a photographer it is important to hire as much for their personality as well as the quality of their work. I have looked at my photography business and found there was a need to streamline things if you will. I toiled over things such as price lists for the past few years and decided this was an area which required simplifying.

According to Thoreau, “Life for most has been tainted with unnecessary items and methods of transportation and communication” i.e., excessive furniture, post offices, and railroads. Thoreau believes “when we are unhurried and wise, we perceive that only great and worthy things have any permanent and absolute existence, that petty fears and petty pleasures are but the shadow of the reality” In order to truly experience living one must not go through life hastily; therefore, the existence of all things is to be absorbed, assimilated into daily life. Hurrying through life and refusing to be cognizant of surroundings and situations results in an empty and unfulfilled life, fore one has to drift away from the “extravagant” life and delve into the activities he/she sincerely wishes to participate. To access this approach, to live with purpose, one has “to drive life into a corner, and reduce it to its lowest terms; returning to the original way of life revitalizes an appreciation for existing, consequently revealing one’s genuine needs and desires.Afoot and light-hearted I take to the open road. -Walt Whitman

He who marvels at the beauty of the world in summer will find equal cause for wonder and admiration in winter. It is true the pomp and the pageantry are swept away, but the essential elements remain,—the day and the night, the mountain and the valley, the elemental play and succession and the perpetual presence of the infinite sky. In winter the stars seem to have rekindled their fires, the moon achieves a fuller triumph, and the heavens wear a look of a more exalted simplicity. Summer is more wooing and seductive, more versatile and human, appeals to the affections and the sentiments, and fosters inquiry and the art impulse. Winter is of a more heroic cast, and addresses the intellect. The severe studies and disciplines come easier in winter. One imposes larger tasks upon himself, and is less tolerant of his own weaknesses.

The tendinous part of the mind, so to speak, is more developed in winter; the fleshy, in summer. I should say winter had given the bone and sinew to Literature, summer the tissues and blood.

The simplicity of winter has a deep moral. The return of nature, after such a career of splendor and prodigality, to habits so simple and austere, is not lost upon either the head or the heart. It is the philosopher coming back from the banquet and the wine to a cup of water and a crust of bread.

And then this beautiful masquerade of the elements,—the novel disguises our nearest friends put on! Here is another rain and another dew, water that will not flow, nor spill, nor receive the taint of an unclean vessel. And if we see truly, the same old beneficence and willingness to serve lurk beneath all.

Look up at the miracle of the falling snow,—the air a dizzy maze of whirling, eddying flakes, noiselessly transforming the world, the exquisite crystals dropping in ditch and gutter, and disguising in the same suit of spotless livery all objects upon which they fall. How novel and fine the first drifts! The old, dilapidated fence is suddenly set off with the most fantastic ruffles, scalloped and fluted after an unheard-of fashion! Looking down a long line of decrepit stone wall, in the trimming of which the wind had fairly run riot, I saw, as for the first time, what a severe yet master artist old Winter is. Ah, a severe artist! How stern the woods look, dark and cold and as rigid against the horizon as iron!

All life and action upon the snow have an added emphasis and significance. Every expression is underscored. Summer has few finer pictures than this winter one of the farmer foddering his cattle from a stack upon the clean snow,—the movement, the sharply defined figures, the great green flakes of hay, the long file of patient cows, the advance just arriving and pressing eagerly for the choicest morsels,—and the bounty and providence it suggests. Or the chopper in the woods,—the prostrate tree, the white new chips scattered about, his easy triumph over the cold, his coat hanging to a limb, and the clear, sharp ring of his axe. The woods are rigid and tense, keyed up by the frost, and resound like a stringed instrument. Or the road-breakers, sallying forth with oxen and sleds in the still, white world, the day after the storm, to restore the lost track and demolish the beleaguering drifts.

All sounds are sharper in winter; the air transmits better. At night I hear more distinctly the steady roar of the North Mountain. In summer it is a sort of complacent purr, as the breezes stroke down its sides; but in winter always the same low, sullen growl. -John Burroughs, from his essay, “The Snow-Walkers”

I have returned to the beautiful solitude which is the outdoors and have also begun to re-explore some of my favorite authors; Burroughs, Thoreau and Emerson, for was these men who understood the importance of living a simple life, a life unencumbered by too much “stuff.”

Thanks for reading,

Namaste.

Chris

I watched an article on the CBS Sunday Morning news program about the lost art of stationary and saying “Thank you.” this segment struck a chord with me as saying “Thank you” has been one of the best values which I learned from my parents. It especially struck me as I walked to a local store to purchase my Sunday paper and I was greeted by the 18 year-old girl behind the counter who was clipping her nails and appeared as though I was bothering her. As I prepared to walk away from the counter I said “Thank you” and was met with resounding silence.

The couples who hire me to photograph their weddings also receive a “thank you.” I have read many blogs and websites written by other photographers who decry this practice. I disagree with them and realize my clients have options and I am truly grateful they have chosen me to represent their wedding photography. The simplest thing I can do is say “Thank you.”

I keep a box of nice stationary as well as freshly inked fountain pens within easy reach. Saying “thank you” for me is not an option, it is a must. I’ve previously mentioned many of my blog posts are written over the course of several days in my journal. Thank you notes are often written in the same format. I write  about my gratitude to a person first in my journal. Saying “thank you” is also a way for me to acknowledge a gift of either material or emotional proportions received from a friend. It is a way for me to express my gratitude to that person for their gift and I believe is much more personal than “firing off a quick email.” In an earlier post I discussed my use of a journal and a fountain pen to write my thoughts and observations. I had also discussed scanning a written document to be used as my “written” word for a blog post so I’ve included a handwritten thank you note which I’ve recently forwarded to a friend and scanned to be used in this post.

Here’s a photo of one of my favorite fountain pens made by the Conklin Pen Company. It is also a reproduction of the pen used by Mark Twain. Referring to this pen, Twain said, “I prefer it to ten other fountain pens, because it carries its filler in its own stomach, and I can not mislay even by art or intention. Also, I prefer it because it is a profanity saver; it can not roll off the desk.” The pen is not capable of rolling off of the desk because you fill the pen from a bottle by depressing the crescent which adorns the barrel of the pen.

“Thank you” for reading.

Namaste.

Chris

As you must know by now I have a tremendous love for the outdoors, its beauty and especially the solitude which I can find within the reach of its outstretched arms. I get out into the woods as often as I can. Sunday I was blessed with the most beautiful sunshine this area had experienced in the past several weeks. i love sunshine and there is something extra special about sunshine in the dead of winter. Is it the warmth it brings, the long shadows which are thrown or the way sunlight dances across the unbroken surface after a new snowfall? Regardless, The day reminded me of my recent trip to the Adirondacks.

From John Burroughs “Snow Walkers.” “He who marvels at the beauty of the world in summer will find equal cause for wonder and admiration in winter. It is true the pomp and the pageantry are swept away, but the essential elements remain,—the day and the night, the mountain and the valley, the elemental play and succession and the perpetual presence of the infinite sky. In winter the stars seem to have rekindled their fires, the moon achieves a fuller triumph, and the heavens wear a look of a more exalted simplicity. Summer is more wooing and seductive, more versatile and human, appeals to the affections and the sentiments, and fosters inquiry and the art impulse. Winter is of a more heroic cast, and addresses the intellect. The severe studies and disciplines come easier in winter. One imposes larger tasks upon himself, and is less tolerant of his own weaknesses.”

The photo below is of meditation rock. During the summer months I’ll climb out onto this rock and spend 15-20 minutes meditating from this rock. This perch allows me an extra measure of solitude as I can sit above the activity going on below me.

Meditation Rock

Footprints

Snowshoeing

A beautifully sunny day.

Henry David Thoreau…one of my favorite authors. This journal goes with me wherever I go and I find myself jotting down my thoughts and observations. A goal which I have had for the past several months is to write more; to sit down and be more deliberate in the act of writing.

Writing is one act which has always brought me some form of relaxation. My blog is obviously published on the Internet and therefore must be written on my computer. All of my writing is done first in my journal with a fountain pen. It happens to be a replica of the fountain pen used by Mark Twain.

I always use a fountain pen even when I hike. I enjoy the way the nib of the pen dances across the surface of the paper and leaves behind it a trail of ink. the ink when formed into characters and linked together  gracefully allows my thoughts to be displayed for all to read. I have even toyed with scanning my written word into my blog posts but I’m not sure if you could read what I have written. The color of ink I use is also important to me be it red, black, blue green or purple. Each ink bottle contains the life blood of my thoughts and when used work together with my hand to form the words which allow my thoughts to be expressed.

I removed my backpack and from the pack I removed a cushion, my journal, thermos of coffee and my fountain pen. I sat and gazed across the ridge that is the Niagara Escarpment. I watched as two cross-country skiers silently skied below me, oblivious to my presence high above. I heard the sound of a hawk and looked up to see it circling looking, I am sure for its next meal. The sound of the hawk accentuated by the cold breeze which blew through the trees causing the branches to rub together like bony fingers on a long dead cadaver. The only other sound was that of my breath and the beating of my own heart. Solitude.

Henry David Thoreau

A solitary skier.

A photograph of one of the orchards left in this area.

Silhouette

Thanks for reading.
Namaste.
Chris

Today is the day I begin Sharon Salzberg‘s 28-day Meditation Challenge.

The 28-day meditation challenge is back! Starting February 1, Sharon Salzberg will be leading the way as she guides us through the four-week program of her new book Real Happiness: The Power of Meditation. In addition to facilitating a book club discussion on tricycle.com during the month of February, Salzberg will be hosting the challenge on her own website sharonsalzberg.com/realhappiness, where she will be answering questions and offering advice to those participating. What exactly will the program entail? From Real Happiness:

“For the next four weeks, we’ll be exploring the principles of insight meditation, the simple and direct practice of moment-to-moment awareness. We first train our attention by focusing on a single chosen object (most often our breath) and repeatedly letting go of distractions in order to return our attention to that object. Later we broaden the focus to whatever thoughts, feelings, or sensations arise in the moment.”

Join me in my continued quest for true happiness and peace.

Thanks for reading.

Namaste.

Chris

Sometimes I’ll write about my goals; those I have set, those I have achieved and those I have not. Some pages contain an impromptu to-do list, a name, an address or a telephone number.  Each entry tells a story. When I write my mind becomes free of the restraints of the day. From time-to-time I’ll randomly grab a volume from the shelf and flip through the pages. Memories flood back to me and a smile crosses my face. Each entry tells a story.

I don’t write everyday.

I once had a goal of writing every day. I allowed that goal to slip through my fingers on the wings of excuses such as “I don’t have the time to write every day.”

The introspective comments I write, like my blog posts allow me to see my inner strength. This strength has reminded me, in times of weakness of my passion for life, my clients and my photography.

2010 turned out much as I had hoped and planned. I worked hard to achieve the goals I had set for myself and look forward to 2011 being an even better year.

I have taken an introspective approach to life for about as long as I can recall. When I was younger I struggled to identify who I was and what I wanted to accomplish. Photography had been a love of mine since I was a small boy. Like a lot of people growing up I was discouraged from following my dreams because “I could never earn a living.” My writing has allowed me to see who I am and to refine that definition over the years.

Thanks everyone for reading.

Namaste.

Chris

This past week I was thinking of those people in my life for who I am thankful. Like my last post said, this had nothing to do with Thanksgiving. I take time everyday to be mindful of the people in my life who have helped me achieve the success I have achieved. I am also mindful of the fact I could not have accomplished these goals by myself. You know who you are. A warm and heartfelt “Thank you” goes out to all of you.

I am so grateful for you, my readers and clients. I am also so very thankful that you take the time out of your very busy day to read my blog. We are all inundated with so much information or as Seth Godin calls it “noise” that we often become numb to the amount of information with which we are bombarded every single day. I read a statistic the other day which said the amount of information gathered in one Sunday NY Times is equivalent to all of the information an individual living in their village in the 1600′s would get in their lifetime. That’s head spinning!

Everyday I have several people who sign up for RSS feeds from my blog. For that I am very thankful. It is helpful in so many ways to know people read my blog everyday. I would love the opportunity to include all of you as more active participants in my blog.

For several years I have written a paper Gratitude Journal. I love technology but more than that I love the smell of a leather bound journal. I love the smell of the paper and the way my fountain pen glides across the page as I search for the words in my soul to express the gratitude I feel everyday. Unfortunately until someone figures out a way for me to use my fountain pen on my computer screen the words I write remain mine. I want to be able to share these thoughts with you.

For the past several months I have written a post called “Monday Musings.” These posts are a way for me to share a brief look into my personal life and also a way to share some of my photography that is not related to my professional work. I love making photographs and weddings, portraits and seniors are just a small sampling of my interests. I do not plan on stopping these posts but will work to make them a little bit more personal and allow you to have an even bigger glimpse into my life. I am also hoping you will help me with those posts. I am hoping to encourage all of my readers to write more comments for the posts they read. I would then love to be able to incorporate your thoughts into future posts as well as themes for future photo shoots.

I have recently thought about taking my journal online so I can share those thoughts with all of you. I am also borrowing an idea from another wonderfully talented photographer from whom I have learned much over the past few years, Anne Ruthmann. Thank you so much Anne for this wonderful idea.

Won’t you please join me? Leave a comment in the comment section regarding the post you have read or leave a comment and let me know about the people in your life for whom you are thankful.

Namaste and thanks so much for reading and following my blog.

Chris

This post is going to be heavily laden with photographs.   This past Monday I had the opportunity to work shoulder-to-shoulder with the wonderful staff of the Accessium Group and Make-A-Wish. The teams combined forces and with the addition of the Mikey’s Way Foundation put on the First Annual Make-A-Wish/Mikey’s Way Foundation Golf Tournament. The tournament took place at the beautiful Brookfield Country Club.

Rene Robert as he signs one of the “Orange” seats from the nosebleed section of the old “Aud.”

Rene Robert

Two thirds of the “French Connection” joined by Derek Smith, another Buffalo Sabres Alumni.

Rick Martin, Rene Robert, Derek Smith

Below is Ryan Erwin, CEO of the Accessium Group, Rene Robert and Rick Martin of the Buffalo Sabres and Ken Tirohn, COO of the Accessium Group.

I love volunteering my time especially when it involves such a wonderful organization. I’ve attached some photos which I hope you like.

Thanks so much for reading and keep coming back.

Chris

The days are noticeably growing longer. This is good as we or should I say I need the daylight to ensure a better mood. As I drove to my office today I was greeted by blue sky and the sun. Sometimes I feel like a pagen worshiping the sun when I see it during the winter because the appearances which it makes are all too infrequent and all too brief. This past week was difficult with respect to the weather. There was little sunlight and additional snow graced the area. I found myself behind the snowblower on several occasions. Friday’s frigid weather saw temperatures with wind-chills dipping below zero. My windshield cracked on Friday as I drove to work through those sub-zero temperatures. 

There were highlights to my week and included Saturday night with my son for the North Tonawanda High School Senior Boys Night. We first stopped at the Pearl Street Grille for dinner and refreshments. I love the atmosphere of the Pearl Street Grille and look forward to shooting my first wedding reception there this October. After we finished our meal we moved on to the HSBC Arena for the Buffalo Bandits game. I had never been to a Bandits game and when I heard they had lost the first four games of the season, I wasn’t too excited to see this game. I have a habit of looking for the positives in everything I do. I didn’t say I always found those positives, I said I always look for them. I knew I was spending the evening with my son and I looked forward to that. He’s such a surprising young man who has adopted a set of values that would make most parents proud. He is intelligent, introspective, respectful and helpful. He has a level of understanding for others that completely blows me away and when we talk I feel as though I am speaking to someone much older. The fact the Bandits won 11-7 was the icing on the cake. I still cannot believe Stephen is a senior and the trips we have taken to look at colleges all seem surreal. I look forward to him moving on to the next phase of his life and know whatever he touches will be better for it.

The other highlight of my week was spending a few hours with Kristina and Jason completing their engagement shoot. The couple left the location of the shoot up to me and I was excited to try some new locations. The locations were new in that i had never shot there before but they brought back a lot of great memories from my childhood. I knew it was going to be cold and we didn’t want to spend the entire time outside. Instead we drove to several different locations and spent approximately 30-minutes at each. We came away with some pretty amazing photos of a pretty amazing couple. A preview of the couple’s shoot is coming later in the week. I will share this photo from the Hamlet of Olcott, NY. I love this area and especially these shops pictured below.

I finished the week editing photos from the engagement session and watching the Grammy’s. Here’s to another week gone by and another week upcomimg. The days will continue to grow longer in duration, the temperatures will grow warmer and the sun will begin to make more frequent appearances.

Keep coming back and thanks for reading.

Christopher

Additionally I meditate every day. I write every day. I read every day and I listen to music every day. These things nourish my soul and without them I would not be able to achieve what I have achieved. It is important for me to take these daily steps. In many ways it is no different from the training done by a world class athlete.

January 9th I photographed Megan and Rob’s wedding. I edited those photos, burned DVD’s, put together an album, designed a website and uploaded photos to my blog, my main website, the couple’s website and my fulfillment site. I also delivered prints and an album for another couple. This is all in addition to my full-time work. .

Saturday, my son Stephen, his friend Kyle and myself drove to Washington, PA to visit Washington-Jefferson College. After a whirlwind trip there and back (8-hours) and meetings with coaches and staff we arrived home. Once I arrived home I cleaned camera gear and charged batteries and then passed out. Sunday morning I was off to Stockton, NY to complete an engagement shoot for Sara and her fiance, EJ. We were a little concerned about the weather being forecast for Sunday. After months of cold temperatures and snow, the forecast was for rain. Normally in Buffalo, NY in January the concern is about the snow, Sunday was about the threat of rain.

We met at the home of Sarah’s parents and the shoot went off without a hitch until we were about 5-minutes into the shoot when the rain started. We did the best we could do under the circumstances yet everyone walked away disappointed. I know Sara was disappointed but no one was more so than me. I make promises to couples to provide the highest degree of customer service and when I can’t complete a shoot I feel as though I’ve not fulfilled my end of the agreement. The weather was something out of my or anyone else’s realm of control but this has done little to relieve the concern I feel for my responsibilities. We will schedule another engagement shoot to make up for the one cut short by the weather.

As busy as the weekend was I wouldn’t trade it for anything. It’s the fact I have my camera in my hand that makes it all tolerable. Again, I’d like to give a shout out to all of my clients and say “Thank you.” Without you and your trust in myself and my abilities I wouldn’t be able to work toward making my photo business full-time.

Thanks for reading.

Christopher

I really can’t believe it’s 2010. I mean that’s just crazy. My kids grow older as do I only I don’t want to admit it. The great thing is, I don’t feel older. As I grow older a feel a sense of urgency to work even harder for my clients and to build my business. I have been so luck to be able to turn a fun hobby into a successful and growing business. I am even more stoked to be able to spend time with some of the wonderful couples who have allowed me the opportunity to be a part of their very special day and to capture those moments for them. I am grateful and thankful. The excitement I experience being able to document a couple’s wedding and then watch their eyes widen into a full-face smile as they see their photos is unmatched.

I have always loved to read and have been frustrated by my inability to finish books. I thought at first it was just the fact I have so much going on in my life. Then a friend introduced me to the Kindle from Amazon.com. Oh my God. I purchased one in August and have read at least two books each month since. I actually forgot my Kindle at my office the other day and when I discovered it missing I wasn’t quite sure how I was going to get through the night. I no longer enjoy reading. I LOVE to read again. Thanks Amazon.com. A friend turned me on to a website called goodreads.com. It’s a website where you can share your thoughts about the books you’ve read and read real world reviews from people about books which you might find interesting. Awesome website. Check it out.

One of my favorite things which happened this year was the development and renewal of some pretty amazing relationships. I realized how many people were out there and wanted to see my succeed and were willing to help out in any way they could. Again, I am so blessed to have these people in my life and thankful for their friendship, their help and their guidance. I saw my blog grow as I worked hard to post at least twice each week. I love to write and saw my writing improve and grow more personal. I have been told by several consistent readers it is this personalization which they have enjoyed the most as it has opened up my soul and made me more accessible to them. I have been told by the same readers it is this personalization they see in my photography and has helped me to book new clients. I have invested in others and they have in turn invested in me. This year has allowed me to see the fruits of that labor as those relationships have continued to blossom and to grow. I have also enjoyed the relationships I have been able to forge with my clients. The trust and appreciation has been incredible.

When I reread some of my blog entries and the ones which remain in “draft” format waiting to be finished, I am amazed at what I have been able to accomplish this past year. I know that with continued hard work and perseverance 2010 will be just as exciting and productive.

Thank you to everyone who has touched my life. I am also thankful for those who have touched my life in a negative way as I have learned from those relationships as well.

Thank you all so much for allowing me into your lives. I am so thankful to have forged the relationships I have and look forward to growing these. Have a great New Year and keep coming back to read.

Namaste,

Christopher

Wedding season has come to an end. Thanksgiving and Christmas come quickly on the heels of Halloween. December 21st, the Winter solstice, brings hope to those of use who struggle with the light shortened days. December 21st is the shortest day of the year. Everyday thereafter brings more daylight and the hope Winter will be coming to an end and warmer weather will soon follow.

Winter used to be a huge downer for me. I’d sit in the house and complain about the cold, the darkness and anything else that would cross my path. I rediscovered the outdoors through a return to skiing and snowshoeing. Snowshoeing fit my personality perfectly. I love the outdoors. I love hiking and I love the solitary feeling of being in the woods. I take a backpack and a thermos full of coffee, my hiking poles and my thoughts. I also bring a notebook and my camera. Several times along the path I stop to photograph with both my camera and my mind, the beautiful scenery laid out by God for my enjoyment. I hear snowflakes gently falling and settling on top of their dearly departed relatives.

As I make my way across the open field, breaking a path through knee deep snow, I look up toward the top of the ridge and I see it; “meditation rock. “Meditation rock” is how I refer to this rock which has provided me with countless opportunities to be introspective. The rock juts out from the ridge and appears to be ready to fall at any time. As I make my way out toward the end of the rock, I remove my backpack and ultimately my thermos. I sit and see other winter hikers below me. They do not see me. I am invisible to the world if for only the time I spend on the “rock.” As I sit I remove my notebook and pen from my backpack and try to capture the thoughts racing through my head begging to be written down. No one sees these words but I know they are there. They are my comfort. They complement my photography and combine to tell the full story; a story that words alone cannot capture. At some point I need to resume my hike. I don’t want to and a battle ensues within my thoughts. I know there is more beauty to see along the path but I am happy, content where I am. After a few more minutes I rise and replace my notebook and thermos. My backpack rejoins my back and I return to the path; the path used by others. I begin hiking and search again for that spot where I can find the quiet, the solitude and be comfortable with my thoughts once again. A smile crosses my face as I come to a bend in the path. I am familiar with this section of the path. It leads downward and comes to an abrupt turn where, as my eyes glace further along the path they spot a large stand of pine trees. I know these trees. They provide a similar sense of quiet and solitude as does “meditation rock.” As I leave the path my eyes search for another comfortable spot on which to find a perch. The sequence of removing my pack and its contents is slowly and thoughtfully repeated. I sit. I contemplate. I write. The feelings at times become overwhelming and I find tears leaving my eyes. I have thoughts of my grandmother who left us two years ago. I think of my family and the successes I have experienced. I think of the love I share with my wife and the tears of sadness turn to those motivated by joy and happiness.

The summer months accompanied by their long, sun filled days are an opportunity to get things done and to feel productive. There seems to be a natural slow down during the winter months. Weddings are still being booked but are not being photographed, especially at the pace they are during the summer.

Thanks again everyone for reading. I hope you find my photography and my writing inspirational. Please keep coming back and please leave comments at the end of the post.

Have a great Christmas. Be safe and God Bless.

Chris

The words escape me and most who know me know this is a quiet time of day for me. A time of quiet introspection and reflection.

I love this quote by John Muir. “I only went out for a walk, and finally concluded to stay out ’til sundown, for going out, I found, was really going in.” I cannot think of anything which captures the beauty of a sunset so spectacularly. For once in my life I am left speechless. I will allow the photograph to speak for itself.

Thanks again for reading and please scroll to the comments section below and leave a comment.

Chris

A number of speakers were slated to congratulate the coaching staff and the kids on an undefeated season and the achievement of the first State Championship in School and Niagara County history. I’m sure when the rain began many people assumed the victory rally would be cancelled and rescheduled. Not in North Tonawanda. The weather doesn’t bother us here. When the season turns cold and night falls earlier, we respond by turning on the lights and dressing in warmer clothing. After all, we’re Lumberjacks!”

The vernerable Dick Grapes agreed to change his schedule and emcee the North Tonawanda Lumberjacks 2009 Championship Victory Rally at the Lumberyard Wednesday night. Mr. Grapes as he is known to everyone, recently retired after spending the last 50-years as the “Voice of the Lumberjacks.” His voice is unmistakeable and his command of the English language remarkable.

Coach Eric Jantzi is flanked by Senators Robin Schimminger and George Maziarz. the pair read a proclamation from NYS Governor Patterson. The proclamation explained the members of the Lumberjack football team were invited to Albany and participate in a senatorial session during which time the lawmakers of NYS would recognize congratulate the team. How cool is that?!

This is a copy of the sign which will grace the major entrances to the City of North Tonawanda. Mayor Soos also proclaimed December 2, 2009 “North Tonawanda Lumberjack Football Day.” I know I’ve used this phrase once already, but “How cool is that?!”

The audience was moved indoors as the rain continued. If you can pick out my beautiful wife and/or Casey and Kyle Shreve’s grandmother (no family members allowed) I’ll give you 15% off any photo shoot package. 

The speakers for tonight’s event were numerous local dignitaries. Congratulations to Barb Zellner on her election to a seat in the Niagara County Legislature. Congratulations Barb! I’m sure you’ll do us proud! Barb is also the mother of Jeffrey Zellner who was an outstanding fullback for the Lumberjacks and graduated last year. Jeff now plays football at Utica College.

The cheerleaders kept the crowd involved.

Kujo, Kyle Shreve and Jimmy Rodgers. Kujo is sporting the pullover windbreaker all of the players received as a result of participating in the NYS Championship game on Sunday. This photo was taken in front of the “Wall of Fame” in the NTHS Student Center where I am quite sure a plaque will shortly be adorning the wall in honor of the 2009 Lumberjack Football team. The boys are overjoyed with their success. When I spoke with Kujo and Kyle after the  victory celebration both boys agreed “it hadn’t really sunk in yet.” Both of these boys like the rest of the team have maintained a level head and they haven’t allowed the win to go to their head.

I feel it is important to take a line from the book “Notes Left Behind” about how we measure time. I have caught myself many times as my children were younger saying “I wish this day would end” or “I wish my children were older.” Time has a way of sneaking up on us even when we don’t want it to. I wish now, as I grow older it would slow down. Stephen, or as everyone else knows him “Kujo” turned 17 on October 21st. He is my youngest child. I watched him grow into the fine young man he has become and smile with excitement at what his future holds for him. He has learned well and I have learned well with him. He does not know this but any good parent learns from the mistakes they have made as a parent. I feel as though I have done a good job. I will always be there to guide you. If you recall the lessons you have learned and apply them to your future you will do fine.

Congratulations boys! Let this Championship win be nothing more than a stepping stone to greater things in your life.

As I dressed for the day I glanced at the clock and knew I needed to stop by the cemetery to say a prayer for her and my grandfather. I am saddened by the fact neither one of them had an opportunity to see my children grow into adults but I know she cherished the time she had with each of them. I wish often my grandfather, a lover of football would have been able to see my son achieve the accomplishments on the field of play as well as off. He would have been proud. When I see my son have a fantastic game I often think of him and know he is watching over Stephen.

As I drove to the cemetery I saw there was a funeral in progress. As I approached the driveway my eyes focused on a flag draped coffin and I knew it was a military funeral. Something told me this was not a WW II veteran who had passed but a young man who had given his life in the fight for freedom. I entered the mausoleum and said my prayer for my grandparents but could not get my mind off the funeral I had just passed. I sat outside briefly basking in the solitude of the cemetery. like magnets my eyes were drawn toward the on-going funeral.  I witnessed two Marines enter their vehicle, a sign the service had ended.

I drove the long way through the cemetery brushing back tears as the memory of my grandmother repeatedly entered my thoughts. I was about to exit the cemetery as I glanced to my left and noticed the once flag draped coffin was now naked and sitting alone atop it’s perch waiting to be lowered into its final resting place. Mourners had left and others were still leaving. My thoughts drifted to the fallen soldier and the hopes he is not soon forgotten. My eyes focused on alone mourner who remained and stood at the side of the coffin of the fallen soldier. His hand was laid with respect on the smooth wood of the coffin now bare of the flag. I, on the other hand watched and looked at the coffin from a safe distance. I said a prayer for him and his family. He gave to this country what I am unsure I would be capable of giving. For his gift I am thankful. I did not know the fallen soldier but he has become linked in my thoughts with my grandmother and when I think of her I will think of him and all of the soldiers who have served and continue to serve.

It is easy for individuals to loudly praise their achievements but it is my belief it is more important to have one’s accomplishments speak for themselves. Watching Stephen reminds of the importance of humility. Watching Stephen reminds me of the importance to know what one is capable of accomplishing and to simply go out and do one’s job; to accomplish one’s goals…quietly and without fanfare.

Stephen does not gloat. He does not point out his accomplishments. He allows his actions, his behaviors to speak for him. It is this voice which speaks more loudly than any other. We found out the day after NT’s win against Lancaster he won “Player of the Game.” He never said anything and when we witnessed his on-field interview we figured it was a result of his on-field accomplishments.

Here’s to those people who go about their day quietly and without need for regard. You will be noticed as your fire will burn brightest. Congratulations ‘Jacks and Congratulations Stephen. Onward to the next goal. Go Jacks!

“I claim to be a simple individual liable to err like any other fellow mortal. I own, however, that I have humility enough to confess my errors and to retrace my steps.” -Mahatma Gandhi

I hope everyone has enjoyed my posts. I know some of you were struggling to see football related posts on a wedding photography blog but for me photography and football go together. Football is my son’s passion and photography is mine. It is wonderful when I have an opportunity to mix both passions and reward my son with memories he will cherish forever. I write football posts in the same fashion as I write posts related to weddings and engagements, with a high degree of passion and the goal being telling a story through my photography. 

It’s important for me to reach out and say ’Thank you” to those clients who have hired me throughout the year. Without all of you my ability to follow my passion and work toward turning it into full-time employment would be much more difficult. Thank you!

As most of my readers are aware, I have and continue to spend a significant amount of time giving back to my community. Giving back is not so much a part of me as who I am. 

It’s myvolunteer work especially with Make-A-Wish which helps me to remain grounded and focused. I enjoy sharing my photography with others and especially enjoy seeing the smiling faces of family’s who now have photographs to adorn the walls within their homes. I am truly blessed to have the opportunity to do something that I truly love and to give back.

To say “Thank you” I’ll be giving away a family portrait session to one lucky family. What I would like my readers to do is nominate one family who you believe to be deserving of such a gift. The one thing I ask is that you nominate a family who for whatever reason cannot afford the cost of a portrait session. From those submissions I will pick a winner. There is one important qualifier: The family must reside in Western New York. The nomination process will close by December 1, 2009 so I have an opportunity to photograph the family so they can receive their prints before Christmas.

If you know of someone who would love to have a free photo session completed, please send your nomination to me at christopherkijowskiphotography@gmail.com.

The Make-A-Wish Radio-thon is your chance to help grant a wish by making a request and pledge to hear any song you want, or bid during our hourly auction on some one of a kind rock and sports items.

The goal for this years radiothon is $250,000. When the radiothon ended at 10:00 AM over $240,000 had been raised for Make-A-Wish. The listeners of 97-Rock came through again and now more wishes can be granted. WOW! It amazes me how the people of Buffalo, NY come together and dig deep to help such a  great cause! Thanks to veryone who volunteered their time and a special thanks to everyone who made a donation of time and money.

Rian Lindell of the Buffalo Bills.

DJ Jixster

Michael is another “Wish” kid who overcame great obstacles with the help of Make-A-Wish.

Larry with Michael and his parents.

Larry Norton just twelve more hours before the end of the radiothon.

Unfortunately, this was not the first time Carly was touched by cancer. She lost both of her biological parents–Tony and Judie Cottone–to cancer during the first seven years of her life. But Carly faced her own battle with cancer with amazing courage and optimism. After all, she had goals and dreams–to go to a Backstreet Boys concert and grow up to become an interior decorator. Nothing was going to slow down this little girl who had so much living to do.

Throughout her fight, Carly was very appreciative of the support she received from her family members and friends. As a way of showing her appreciation, she decided early on in her treatment that she wanted to help other kids who were also battling cancer. Thus, Carly’s Club was born. With the love and support of her adoptive parents, Chuck and Carole Ann Collard, Carly was able to fulfill her dream of helping other families touched by the disease.

Sadly, Carly lost her hard-fought struggle with the disease in August of 2002. Little did she know the positive impact that Carly’s Club would have on the lives of the thousands of children diagnosed with cancer each year.

Carly created a beautiful legacy – and you can help us continue it for all children diagnosed with cancer, and to offer support to families across Western New York. Thank you for your generosity to help find cures and save lives!

Many thanks to the hundreds of swimmers, volunteers and supporters who made Carly’s Crossing 2009 another successful year! More than 300 swimmers turned out to Gallagher Beach on Sunday, August 16, to dive in and show their support for pediatric cancer research and patient care at Roswell Park Cancer Institute. Special thanks to Olympic swimmer Kara Lynn Joyce, who swam in the 600-yard course with our top fundraisers, cheered on our swimmers and made the day extra special! Read more about Carly’s Crossing 2009 in this article from The Buffalo News.