Only blooms at night...

I'd like to introduce you to an amazing blossom - a Cereus Peruvianus (Peruvian Apple) Cactus Flower. I wish I could take credit for this - however, these beauties are growing on several of my neighbors' plants.

These blossoms are rather interesting. They are about the size of a cereal bowl - attached to a cactus that stands 9-12 feet tall. They blossoms open up at night... and when the day warms they start to close up. The blossoms in the picture above are about half-way closed at this stage.

This picture was taken around 7:15 am this morning... and the blossoms were going back into their "sleep" mode to protect them from the hot summer sun. Kind of like I do... stay inside and stay cool. At least until this cruddy, humid weather decides to wane into Fall.

Hangin' with the Marsheks

Loren and Jody surprised us w/ a very short visit a few weeks back... so while they were in town we figured there's no better time than to get together w/ the rest of the family. Hey Marsheks - thanks for your impromptu hospitality and all the great laughs! Each time we get together we ask ourselves "Why don't we do this more often?!" Let's make sure so much time doesn't pass us by before next time.... k?!

This is Heaven and Brooklynne hanging out for the first time!

Hey Gramps - I love your smile!

Loren - so good to see you and your family ... I miss you lil' bro!

Like I said - w/ the Marsheks there is always laughter! Thanks Uncle Paul for having us over on such short notice! You do good BBQ chicken!

Brooklyne is so curious these days... and if you couldn't tell by her tanned skin she LOVES the swimming pool! Her Daddy Jason is so playful with her... and she loves it!

Again, thanks for your hospitality and the use of your fire pit. Those s'mores were FABULOUS!!!

Victor and Lydia

Congratulations Victor and Lydia! Your wedding day at the Crosby in Rancho Santa Fe was just a gorgeous day! Thank you for affording me the opportunity to capture your day from behind the camera!

You really couldn't have asked for a better day to tie the knot! Or a better location!

Even Jasmine enjoyed it!!!

You two are ever so lucky to have so many fun-filled family and friends ... and for them to have stood by you on your beautiful day... wow!

I wish I could have stayed through the reception. Everyone looked like they were ready to have a nice time together... congratulations on your future!