April 14th: 11:59 PM.

Nothing is set in stone.

This life emulates a fragile flower.

Its petals weak and vulnerable;

Just as the actual existence of the human race.

Raw, exposed, and shaken - the fragility that is this life.

Poetry sometimes just spills out of my mind like blood from an unexpected wound. When the red water comes I only focus on where I can write it all down. I have always been like this. A writer. Someone to inspire, to create, and be apart of something with passion and feeling. Same goes for my photography. I remember all I ever wanted for holiday was a camera. From breaking to having camera stolen, my list never ends. That always is what set me back from moving forward in my photography. With no means to purchase a new camera in a poor family growing up, I got saddled with writing; and how it was not a shameful thing. I most definitely enjoy being able to express myself by means of any and all mediums I choose. I just wish that they would count for something. No, not necessarily dollars and cents, like all of America is worried about. However, I want to share my art, my story, and my passions. I want to see places, meet people of different cultures, experience different cuisines, worship all over this blue planet with all walks of religion - I want to decide for me how I am going to live my next 70 - hopefully plus - years. The idea that we are not infinite. We will die. We are not invincible and there is so much - in my life at this age - yet to see! I have so much passion that I don't share, so much zealous adventures that only exist on paper, when the red water comes out. The idea of my epic search for harmony and inner peace comes along with the captivating realization that today, and only today, is the day to start living your dreams. Because although, especially at this age, we like to think so..we are not infinite. Our time does run out. We might not get a redo. This could be our one life. (which in my humble opinion is the case) So living for yourself and those your love and living for today are the most important things to remember in this life. Passion & inspiration & hopes & dreams & ambition & peace & beauty - my serenity.

© Photography by Alison

photo by: © Maunie Baysal

Silhouette Study.

One of my most favorite muses inspired me within the last few days. I have completely given myself over to my desire to create. There have been obstacles holding me back, but the most complex hurdle has been myself. The want to give myself over long ago has been heavy on my heart. Now it's right.

Although my heart and mind are full of stories, ideas, influence, emotions, and soulful aspirations; I must allow myself to enter into a deep slumber to combat this illness.  I've been sick since I've arrived in Norfolk, but that doesn't know it is holding me back from everything I have wanted to do, including doing a photography study today.

A goal I have developed for myself is to do a different photography study each day. Being able to constantly photograph and create art will keep me always moving forward. Today, I chose a silhouette study. My subject is my best friend, a tall and lean perfect silhouette - if you ask me. The sunset, the ocean, and the moon were beautiful; so nature inspired me to keep shooting. I shot until darkness completely took over the landscape.

Keep inspiring one another. You never know when a compliment or a simple hello may turn someone's day around in order for them too to be inspired to do what they love the most.

© Photography by Alison

Photography and such.

Photography by Alison is my passion, my pride, and even my joy. When it comes to my passions, they are many; however, nothing surpasses my love for photography. I had an engagement session today with a lovely couple. I then took some nature photos as my mom and I took a stroll around the lake at Wheeling Park, even though her ankle is broken. I wish I told her more how much these little things mean to me, especially during my time of need and great sorrow, at times.

Many days have gone by that I don't have a camera in hand. Other days I'm using my cell phone like it is attached to me to photograph every meal or every cat stretch like it's history in the making. Documenting our lives is one of the most important things I believe. Whether it is in a leather bound journal with a pencil and eraser or on an online blog with photographs; it still is unforgettable. Memories are way too precious to forget. I wish that I could write more. To your average person (better not say average American, because a lot of them don't write, or read for that matter) -- but an ordinary individual would say that I write a lot in fact. I feel as though it has been a fortnight and then some. Writing has become another passion released within me, especially through the storm that I have endured. 

 © Photography by Alison

Satisfaction Because Rome Wasn't Built in a Day.

Satisfaction comes in many forms. It may present itself in getting a promotion, seeing a child excel at sports, or maybe by eating a luscious chocolate bar. I; however, have achieved satisfaction in my day and for me, that is enough.

It all started with my morning routine. I was proud that I was able to do what I hoped for myself for the day in every day. Brush, whiten, cleanse, moisturize, straighten, make-up, brush - just how I hoped for; I knew I could will myself to. I did my makeup today in my most favorite way. Being a makeup artist, I have so many options, colors, mattes. But my favorite for my eye shape and face shape is a silver and black smokey eye with vintage line and dramatic falsies - I use 105 Black from Walmart. I have bought Snooki lashes, which are BEAUTIFUL! however, when I lose one or overuse them I cry because of their price! But they are awesome to invest in at least one pair! However, for casual use - the Walmart ones are literally less than that fast food meal that you don't need anyways!


The straightener I use is absolutely by far the greatest straightener that I have ever had the privilege of using. My sister even went and bought one just like it, because she has found no greater. It is a Paul Mitchell and I'm seriously in love. I bought it in - get this December of 2008 and it is still here. (knock on wood) I would be so lost without it and I plan to buy Paul Mitchell

for years to come! I highly recommend it!

So this is the end result of my day of beauty. I went like this to my sister, Bobbi's cooking expo at her high school. She did wonderfully; proud mama! Afterwards I took some time and snapped a few landscape photographs. The way that the sky looked was too irresistible!
I did achieve satisfaction today. I had goals and I met most of them. I know something I do need to work on is being able to go to bed before the wee hours of the night. I work at night on the multiple projects I am involved with as well as blogging for you fine people. It is something I love and enjoy. My future hubby is playing games after a very long night at work, why not stay up and enjoy the night owl syndrome as well. I think I do need a day to relax. Do some crafting, hang with my bestie via Skype (since she is 500 miles away), watch some movies, & cook some amazing & healthy recipes.

I believe that is what my day tomorrow will look like after my appointment. I have an appointment with my neurologist and pain management specialist for my Trigeminal Neuralgia. It is the most painful thing in the world and she is the only person I trust to help me with it, so wish me luck!
Just remember to set daily goals for yourself. Nothing to outrageous! Cliche of the night: Rome wasn't built in a day!

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© Photography by Alison

Photography Tribute.

A moment can be captured in a memory.
But how quickly the shelf life of that thought fades.
It may last a week, a decade, or perhaps only an hour.
A fading begins to occur, whether it be a withering of age or interest,
The haze over facts or feelings take hold.

A memory in time is too precious to be forgotten.
The greatest method to hold steadfast to our fondest memories,
To keep all the days of our lives is photography.
Documenting for future generations, to pass down.

Nothing stirs more emotions intertwined with a memory than an old photograph.
Experiencing an emotion on a loved one's face,
Possibly a shot of someone who isn't with us anymore,
Can only be seen with the eye because of a photograph.
The brain is fantastic with documentation and filing events;
However, the details of a photo can never be replaced.

The color shirt she wore or the tie that he never took off;
These are precious facts that we lose about our loved ones over the years.
Not every memory is of a lost loved one,
but there are other sentiments can be exhibited through only photography.
The only way to remember each smile line on a young groom's face,
As his glowing bride walked down the aisle is by taking a photo of it.

A baby changes exceedingly fast.
Three months, six months, twelve months;
Oh the difference. Lay, sit, stand, then run.
So many new emotions for that child to explore,
all of which can be captured through a lens and a lens only.

The beauty taken in from a bride, a baby, an elderly couple,
A strong man returning from deployment, a senior in high school;
Each of these radiating exquisite beauty and excellence.

If family, love, memories, and happiness are prided in your household,
You will want to contact Photography by Alison
For breathtaking, unique images for your every meaningful occasion.

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