LIFE Archives - Page 8 of 8

Get in the Picture!

Posted on April 24, 2013September 28, 2023 by Tressie

I am fanatic about photography. After the word ‘no’ my children probably first said “no more pictures”. Or at least they thought it. There aren’t many fans of my paparazzi ways. I can’t tell you how many photographs I have of the backs of heads as family would turn away from my camera, or hands put up to ward off the lens.

The drawbacks of my obsession with photography (other than those my family would list)? I have an extremely difficult time publishing/printing imperfect images, even if they perfectly illustrate meaningful times of my life. And while I love being behind the camera, I do not like being on the other side…I know that I am not alone, I can’t think of many people (with the exception of models) over the age of 6 that LIKE having their photo taken.

During the last several years, my family has suffered some very painful losses. As we sorted through images, there were realizations that in some cases we had no record of entire YEARS, if not decades. I also realized that if I didn’t get in front of the camera at least some of the time (and keep those “imperfect” images), my children would have nothing to remember me by – except pictures of them with everyone but me.

I will not let that happen to my loved ones, and neither should you. Four tips to stay on track:

1. Remember to photograph everyone in your life, including yourself. Do it frequently. The images do not always have to be professional – simply having them is a blessing. Keep the camera near, and document. In addition to milestones (the first day of school, graduation, etc) be sure to snap the every day moments – bath time and bedtime, reading a book in the corner, haircuts, and family game night. Hand your camera to the “non-photographer” in the family and ask them to make sure you get in a few images!! Need pics of you and your spouse? Hand the camera to the kids. Turns out the every day details are my favorite photos…those, and the snaps of me with my children. And if they are blurry? All the better to hide the wrinkles my dear.

2. Get your images PRINTED. Or make a book. Or anything more concrete than a handful of pixels on your Facebook account. My kids are particularly fond of Shutterfly books. We make a few a year, to document our vacations, or a holiday, or a sport season, or graduation. I like them better than loose prints, as they are easy to display and share. My heart smiles every time I see my kids take one of those books off the shelf and say “ooohhh, remember this?” If books aren’t your thing, check out Imagine Your Photos where there are a whole bunch of cool things that can be made with your pics – everything from canisters, to blankets, to clothing and wall displays. Really a very cool site.

3. For especially momentous occasions, hire a professional. Take pics of every day life yourself, but do not skimp for weddings, newborns, senior year, etc. Hiring a professional will allow you to immerse yourself in a moment or event without worrying about documenting. And at least every couple of years hire a pro to produce artistic, timeless and technically sound images for your family that will be treasured for generations. If your pro delivers digital images, be sure to get them PRINTED. (see number 2)

4. Don’t get too wrapped up in documenting. A particularly difficult tip for me, this may sound like a contradiction, but it really isn’t. While following tips 1-3, don’t forget to BE IN THE MOMENT. Take one or two snaps to remember the day, then put the camera down and have fun.

Live fully, love deeply, laugh often….and please, get in the pictures!

A huge thank you to all of the photographers (too many to name!) that have blessed my family with images and me with support, as well as family, friends and random strangers on vacation that have taken pics of us!
A special shout out to the following very talented photographers, whose images appear in this post (mixed with mine).
Judi Morrissey – Judi Morrissey Photography (family pics at the lake)
Violeta Harrington – Violeta Harrington Photography (pics of me with Robby on the beach)
Trula Muir – Time in a Frame (below pic of me wearing orange dress and lifting Robby)
Burrill Strong – Burrill Strong Photography (image of me on the Football field with Dom)
Brigitte Hoag – Brigitte Hoag Photography (images of me with Alex and Robby)

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Tressie Davis is a blogger and photographer located in Chelsea, MI.

Build a Better Castle

Posted on April 17, 2013September 28, 2023 by Tressie

In 2010 as we were leaving the beach, Robby looked wistfully back at his sand creation. Instead of being sad, my wise little guy said to me, “I will build a better castle tomorrow”.

I am choosing to follow his lead. Regardless of what I may be sad to give up today, tomorrow is always an opportunity to build it BETTER.

My current castle is constructed of images. I am building it better by concentrating more on photographing things I love, and less of what I don’t. I am working diligently on monetizing my passion through more than portraits. I am exploring other complimentary creative pursuits (like this blog). And I am NOT paying attention to what has been left behind (or mistakes that I have made), but instead what I can do moving forward.

How about you? What is your castle made of, and how will you build it better tomorrow?

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Tressie Davis is a blogger and photographer located in Chelsea, MI.

Behind the Scenes with Team USA Softball #19 – Chiddy

Posted on April 1, 2013September 28, 2023 by Tressie

USA Softball #19 – Amanda Chidester
At UofM: Two-time Big Ten Player of the Year (2011, 2012), Two-time NFCA All-American (2009, 2011), Michigan’s Big Ten Medal of Honor Winner (2012)
www.chiddysoftball.com

I first met Amanda Chidester at a Common Bond basketball game – she had come to cheer on one of the team members (Shelby). I don’t remember whether the team did well that day,and it really doesn’t matter, what stands out in my mind is the time spent with Amanda after the game. Chit chat? Sure. But she also took the time to shoot some hoops with Shelby and Riley. A little trash talk, a lot of laughs, and my first impression of Amanda as a sweet, down to earth, every day girl. I was thrilled when she agreed to this interview.

Amanda is from Allen Park, Michigan, and attended school at St. Francis Cabrini from 2nd through 12th grade. She will tell you with enthusiasm how much she loved the small school atmosphere, and wearing the uniform every day! With an early love for sports, Amanda played basketball, softball and volleyball starting in 5th grade – and her favorite sport growing up was always basketball.

A deep love and respect for family is very apparent in everything Amanda says and does. Amanda has four brothers, and she is the middle child. With three cousins recently added to her family, the Chidester household is well packed when everyone is home! When asked about her parents, Amanda states, “My parents are two of the greatest people in the world. They will drop anything and everything for us kids. They have always taught us that we can do anything we put our minds to!! They truly have supported my brothers and I through every part of our lives”. Oh, and her beloved Jack Russel Terrier (the best dog ever according to Amanda), is named Mac.

Currently, Amanda is finishing up her student teaching, at the conclusion of which she will have a Bachelor of Science in Physical Education with a Minor in Health. While student teaching, she also helps out with the University of Michigan softball team as a student assistant, and gives hitting lessons to aspiring softball players. Amanda says, “Giving lessons has been truly one of the best experiences. I have been able to meet and work with so many amazing people.”

What do aspiring young athletes want to know about a Team USA Softball player? I wasn’t sure, so I decided to turn the interview over to three of them.

Expert Panel of young interviewers:

Q: (Riley) What was the deciding factor in your choice to attend UofM?

A: I have always loved Michigan softball! Everything about their program and Campus I loved. I think what made my final decision was when I was 13 and Hutch called me Chiddy at camp. I thought that was the coolest thing ever that she knew my nickname!

Q: (Riley) What led you to choose softball over basketball for your college sport?
A:      I remember thinking how much I loved being outside more than in a hot sweaty gym. I was also better at softball than basketball even though I always like basketball more.

Q:   (Shelby) I’m 11 years old, I want to play ball in college. What advice would you give me and my parents to help me reach this goal?
A:      I would say to keep working hard. It is so important to get on a travel ball team where you know they are in exposure tournaments with colleges coming to watch. It is also important to go to camps and introduce yourself to the coaches after and thank them. It is important to remember it is just a game. It is meant for us to enjoy and have fun. Parents need to be encouraging towards the girls in every way possible. For example if I had a bad game my parents would never tell me what I did wrong and what I could have done better. They would always say “did you give it your best effort? Sometimes we just have bad days.” Later on they may have talked to me about what I could work on, but after the game they were always supportive and I think that was huge for me. I knew I had their support and love no matter how I performed which to me was huge. I also think it is so important to play other sports. When I was in another sport I stuck to that sport and committed my time and energy into it. I would play softball usually once a week with my travel team if I could, but if I didn’t make it I never stressed over it. Also always be open to learn. You never know everything, take as much advice and instruction as you can.

Q: (Shelby) How do you balance school and sports?
A:   For me balancing the two was not as hard because I sacrificed my social life. I would go to school then to practice and go straight home for dinner. Shortly after dinner I would start homework and then go to bed. I had a routine and I stuck with it. My parents were there to always help me in any way they could. If I needed to stay up late to do work my mom or dad at times would stay up with me to get it done. It was very hard and stressful at times, but I loved sports so it was worth it. I had goals and big dreams that I was dedicated to and motivated to reach.

Q:     (Kylie) Was it more challenging playing sports and balancing your schedule when you were younger (middle school, highschool) or now that you’re on the USA team?
A:   It is hard to say because when I look back I think high school and middle school were easy, but at the time it was really difficult. I do not think there is ever a time where it is EASY! You have to embrace the challenge. Many people give up because “it is to HARD” It is hard, that is what makes it so great and that is why so many people do not make it to the high levels.

Q:     (Shelby) Have your parents played a role in your success? If so, how?
A:   Every way you could imagine. They are the reason I am where I am today. They are the reason I am the way I am. They have always done what was best for me whether I agreed with them or not. They paid for all of my sports, school, traveling, and the list can go on and on.

Q:     (Shelby) Currently you are playing for Team USA. Where do you see yourself 5 years, 10 years from now? (playing, coaching, teaching?)
A:      I see myself either finishing up playing or coming close to it. I see myself coaching for a great University. I also see myself putting on camps and events for young players to help them in any way that I can!

Q:   (Kylie) What is your current training schedule like?
A:      Right now it has been pretty crazy because of my student teaching. I wake up at 6am to go workout, come home get ready for student teaching, leave straight to softball practice, then I will stay after and hit or I would go give lessons, and come home to bed.

Q: (Riley) What would you say was your most embarrassing moment in sports?
A:      I have had way to many!!

Q:   (Riley) What is a moment you are most proud of?
A:   When I made the USA team I knew I was up against some of the top players of the game. It was the first time I have ever had to sit multiple games. I was the pinch hitter and pinch runner. I knew I needed to earn my spot and prove I could be in the line up. I was determined to have a starting spot in the line up by the last tournament. I worked hard and was able to do it. I think I ended up starting the last 8 games we played.

Q: (Riley) If you had to live your life over again, is there anything you would choose to do differently?
A:   Hmm I am not sure. I would be more confident in my playing abilities.

Q: What motivates you to go the extra mile, in sports and in life?
A:      I want to make a difference. I want to have an impact on people’s lives. The little things in my eyes go such a long way. I want to help girls realize failing is ok. I want to help them realize if they truly want it bad enough they can do whatever they put their minds to! I want people to truly believe in themselves.

Q:   What is your most cherished family tradition? Why is it important?
A:   I have so many family traditions! I think my favorite is going to cut down the Christmas tree the day after Thanksgiving. I love our family traditions, and my parents have done such a great job of keeping them alive. Even though we are all older, we still wake up Christmas morning and go in my parents room and wait for my dad to get his camera ready so when we come out of the room he can be taping us from the very start.

Q: What is the best advice you have ever received?
A: I have had some very influential people in my life. From my parents, to my grandma, my high school softball coach, and my college softball coach. To leave you with one specific moment. There was a time I had to give a speech in front of a lot of people and I was soooo nervous. Hutch told me if I spoke from my heart then there was no way I could mess it up. That has stuck with me ever since I gave that speech, and anytime I have to speak I always think that!!

Passionate. Caring. Fun. These are the three words Amanda gave me when I asked her to describe herself in three words. I would have to agree, they are perfect.

If you are interested in Softball clinics and training, be sure to keep an eye on Amanda’s new website: www.chiddysoftball.com.

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Tressie Davis is a blogger and photographer located in Chelsea, MI.

Do You Know Flat Stanley?

Posted on March 3, 2013September 28, 2023 by Tressie

Do you know Flat Stanley?

According to Wikipedia: Flat Stanley is a 1964 children’s book written by Jeff Brown (January 1, 1926 – December 3, 2003) and originally illustrated byTomi Ungerer. It is the first in a series of books featuring Stanley Lambchop.

In 1995 Dale Hubert, a third grade teacher in Canada, started the Flat Stanley Project. The idea involved school children creating a Flat Stanley and keeping a journal with stories and pictures of Flat Stanley’s adventures. They would then exchange their Flat Stanley and journals with students in another class that had signed up for the project.

Since the original idea was formed, the project has undergone many evolutions, including sending a blank Flat Stanley to a location to be decorated in the customary or traditional costume of the area.

What the project meant to my daughters second grade class is that they each colored a Flat Stanley and mailed him off to the friend or family member of their choice and requested photos and a story in return. My daughter Alex chose to send her Flat Stanley to her brother Dom in college (after briefly considering sending him to a friend of ours currently living in China)

This is what Alex received back with her Flat Stanley:

November 2012

Flat Stanley visits Wittenberg University

Dear Alex,

I have always wanted to know what college life was like, so I was very excited when you sent me to Wittenberg University to visit your big brother Dominic.

The first thing I noticed as I left the mailroom with Dominic was that there are lots of very big, very old buildings, and giant pretty trees. The signs say that Wittenberg University was founded in 1845, so that explains its beautiful historic look.

As I looked around, I spied the tallest building on campus, and wondered what it was. Imagine my surprise when I discovered that it was the dorm where Dominic’s room is! It’s called Tower Hall, and Dominic’s room is in the “penthouse” – the top floor of the building.

Dominic took me up to his room, and I loved looking out of the window. I’m sure I could see all of Springfield, Ohio from there – and maybe beyond!! The photo I sent does not do the view justice.

Attending class with Dominic was a lot like going to school back in Chelsea. Only a lot more people in class, and Dominic doesn’t get recess.

When we returned from class, I got to meet Dominic’s roommate Colton, and I played video games with him for a while. It turns out that dorms are very social places. Dominic and Colton kept their door open, and people walking by would stop in and visit, or just say hi as they walked by. At one point Dominic put me on the bulletin board on the door, so I could watch the students and wave to them as they passed by.

Did I say that the dorm was full of football players? Well it is. Dominic and Colton play football too, and they took me down to the football field to see where they play. I was surprised to see how much it looked like the Chelsea High School Football field and stands – well, except for all of the red. There was even a hill on the sides of the field where kids can roll down with their friends!

I was having so much fun with Dominic and his friends, that I totally lost track of time, I’m so sorry that it took me so long to return to Chelsea. I had so much fun, and I can’t wait to go back. Or maybe next time you will send me to China? J

Love,

Flat Stanley

Flat Stanely with Dom’s roommate Colton, and The Tower where Dom and Colton live

Flat Stanley looking out the window at Springfield, and hanging out on the door

Flat Stanley visits Wittenberg University!!

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Tressie Davis is a blogger and photographer located in Chelsea, MI.

The Big House – UofM vs AirForce 2012 my Sideline Experience

Posted on September 24, 2012September 28, 2023 by Tressie

The Big House - UofM vs AirForce my sideline Experience

There is nothing quite like The Big House. Or so I had been told. And until September 8, 2012 I had no idea what I was missing. The UofM vs Airforce game may be old news to most, but it is an experience I will never forget.

Through a very cool friend (yay for cool friends!), I was given the opportunity to photograph field side during the UofM vs Airforce game. What an amazing way to experience Michigan Stadium for the first time!

The outside view of the stadium is deceptive, looking smaller than it really is. Walking in (especially for the first time) you realize just how little of the stadium is visible from the outside. With an official capacity of 109,901, the inside fills to a roaring, unbroken sea of maize and blue – the perfect venue for an uninterrupted “wave” around the stadium.

Even before the game, the sidelines hum with a bustle of activity – players warming up, fans and media hyping up for the event. Two Falcons with their handlers worked the perimeter of the stadium allowing up close and personal encounters with the live birds. “The Bird” mascot was also in attendance, dancing, waving and posturing on the sideline. The Bird may be famous for his daredevil antics, but my favorite part on this day was his harassment of photographers. Sorry Greg, had to post the pic of you. Please forgive me. 🙂

As fans settled into their seats, and with photographers and videographers lining the sides/endzones, the Michigan Marching Band took the field. I positioned myself for an image of the Michigan Drum Major (the “Man up Front”) doing the infamous back bend during the pre-game performance. He graced my camera (and others of course!) with a big smile as his head touched the field.

And then…the National Anthem. Complete with the majestic flight of a bald eagle through the stadium during the anthem, followed by the “surprise” appearance overhead of a B-2 Stealth Bomber.

The excitement in the stadium was palpable as the players ran onto the field, ready to play. I love to shoot football, but I am not much of a sports writer – a better story of the actual game can be found HERE (along with one of my images – yay!). I spent my time shooting, and reveling in the festive atmosphere complete with chanting from the student section, deafening roars with every touchdown and an occasional beach ball bouncing down from the stands – taking note of random things, like why I end up with photos of two different players missing a shoe during the game. Yes, one was Denard.

Whether you are a football fan or not, The Big House is something that should be experienced at least once in your lifetime. From beginning to end, a very exciting, exhausting experience – and one I hope to repeat. A huge thank you to Terry Jacoby for the opportunity, and to Greg S for watching out for this “lost puppy”.

GO BLUE!

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Tressie Davis is a blogger and photographer located in Chelsea, MI.