PATRIZI'S EARTH

Driving in Doha...

2012-02-16T13:50:00.000+03:00

What a topic.... The title should be "MAD Reckless Racing in Doha", or "Defensive Driving at it's finest", or "Supreme Craziness on the road" is more like it... I will probably get deported for this one...

I have never been to a place like this before, and we have been around the globe... Cairo Egypt I thought had to be the worst, until I moved here, but DOHA takes the cake. This is a subject talked about daily in every group and organization, newspaper, online, but still NOTHING has changed... Bottom line...
NO RULES for the LOCALS!!! They own the road... and the country and everything else... So move out of their way... That is their Motto!!!

1. The shoulder is a LANE, even if it has stripes painted on the road, or even curbs, It's a lane. The bike path, it's a lane too, sidewalk, you guessed it - A LANE!!!
2. There is not a such of thing as courtesy, everyone just pushes their way into the lanes in the front of the light. Queue, or waiting in line is not an option here. Not even a word they know.

3. Smash your car, leave it there, go buy a new one tomorrow.

4. A right turn from the left lane is completely OK if you are driving a white Landcruiser or even better, visa versa, a left turn from a 6 lane road at a red light from the right lane is just normal. Get use to it!!!
5. They have to build fences between the medians to keep them from jumping curbs. Curbs are not a big enough deterrent.
6. Qatar has the #1 pedestrian deaths in the world. At the mall NO ONE lets you walk to the door, they speed up when they see you to scare you. It's super rude. Even the taxi drivers have not learned that pedestrians have the right of way. My country taught us better manners!
7. If you driving down the street and a Qatari gets 2 inches behind you and flashes his lights no matter what, you are supposed to move over, even if there are wall to wall cars and traffic, or you are about to turn, it's the law... Remember they own the law and the road...
8. Seat belts? WHAT IS A SEATBELT? This has to be my worst issue here. Never a child buckled in!!! They sit in the laps of the drivers while they are on the phone! Yes, and it is a law, but only for others... How can you not want to protect your baby? This my friends, I do not understand. Allah or no Allah, I love my babies and will do whatever it takes to protect them.
9. Oh and the phone, you got it... Law: you can not use any devices while driving, if you are not local.
10. If you haven't seen a young Qatari trying to show off by getting his car up on two wheels at a round about - you will. Or a motorcyclist guy doing a wheelie for an entire block at a super high rate of speed, don't fret, you will.
Here are some rules the Qataris follow:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.

Solution:
BE ARAB!!! Turn up your Van Halen as loud as it goes, be BEYOND aggressive and pretend you have a white landcruiser, DO NOT LOOK AT THE ROUND-A-BOUTS, JUST GO, everyone will stop for you. It is amazing how much fun this is... Even if you are just going to the grocery store, buckle up... and put your PEDAL to the METAL all the way to the floor and BUST A MOVE!!!
Trust me, it is way more fun that being in a bad mood... If you can't beat them, Join em!!!

Life is like a carpet...

2012-01-18T22:30:00.000+03:00

We spend our whole life worrying about the details.

Working with the knots like the carpet weavers...

Is your hair combed, legs shaved, makeup on, shirt tucked in properly.

Is your dinner warm, steak cooked to perfection, is there too much salt in the sauce?

Did you make the best grades, is the yard mowed, flower beds weeded?

Did you read enough news, pay attention to the presidential election, stay that extra hour at work, know enough of world issues? Are you smart enough, religious enough, happy enough?

Oh my gosh so many details.

Look at a carpet... LOOK really close....When you go to buy one, the carpet man always turns it over so you can see the details of the work. If you work harder on the details the carpet is much more beautiful and exquisite.

We spend more than half our life on the wrong side of the carpet.

Staring at the backside, the knots and issues without stepping to the other side to admire the beauty of all your hard work!

Pat yourself on the back for a job well done.

Award yourself with praise, don't wait until someone else does it for you.

Be proud of you.

Let's step to the other side of life...

Let us all gander at the wonderful world amongst us.

Let's like our face, body and family. Let's love yourself, friends and neighbors.

Let's stop nit picking our lives to death because we didn't hit the ball as far as we should have or made an A+, didn't loose that 5 pounds, lifted that weight one more time.

Although you work really hard on that final exam, redecorating your livingroom, peeling the garlic, took extra time on that spread sheet, relax.

Marvel at the majestic finished product with admiration of a fine job you have done.

Stare at the pretty side. Get past the knots.

We all have flaws, that is what makes us unique and special as well as irritating sometimes.

Some of us talk too much and don't listen to others, snore, fart, are too loud or too meek, too much of a goodie two shoes, or too obnoxious, some of us are too prejudice, think you are better than others, bossy, or too skinny or zit faced, crooked teeth, wrinkles, not very nice, whine all the time, talk about others, judge people, negative or fat.

I am the first to admit, I am all of these things combined at times, well never too skinny!

If only!

Flaws make the carpet a sign of authenticity, to be handmade is way better than perfect. People seek out the ones that are special...

It means you are real, normal, authentic, unique. Our flaws make us OK to be yourself.

No one is expecting perfection, except in our own minds.

Tolerate your human side without putting yourself down.

Accept you just the way you are.

Let your knots show.

Presentation

2012-01-02T21:27:00.000+03:00

What is in a presentation? Making something look pretty!

Believe me, I am into presentation. It's my job, first of all. I spend hours and hours a day making people look good. But what is in a presentation if the inside is not as pretty as the outside?

If you go to a fancy restaurant and the food is served with freshly cut vegetables cut in a rose with little drops of 1932 Modena balsamic vinegar in a Mona Lisa pattern, but the food itself taste like crap, does the presentation stand for anything? It does if you are a visual person. But if you are a foodie, then maybe not.

People can be the same way. Pretty on the outside, seemingly flawless ~ but on the inside not so much. And the opposite applies as well. Some people are not into "curb appeal". Some folks are deeper than that, go beyond the package wrapping... deep in the depths of your soul and then that is where the real presentation comes in. Remember, beauty is only skin deep! The really beautiful person speaks from within. The presentation of your heart... My momma always said "Don't judge a book by it's cover"! She is right. You have got to read it first before you decide if you like it or not.

I know some of each. Pretty people that are hard to take, and not so pretty people that are absolutely beautiful once you get to know them. Their insides make the outside gorgeous and visa versa! God sprinkles our lives with both kinds...

How can we present ourselves from the inside out? This is VERY hard for most. By not putting up walls, and opening up your heart and emotions outwardly without restrictions or worries about what people think! A problem I always had, so worried about what people think! So stupid. I'm getting better with that with age... But it is a fact of life, we want people to like us and not judge us for how we look, what we wear, if we cuss or drink too much or go to church. Most of us want to look good, have our kids behave and be well mannered, dress appropriately, and put forth a first impression that stays and means well. We teach them this. We teach them way more than we know we do. Especially the inside part.

There is always a time and place we have to watch our P's and Q's... (What are P's and Q's anyway?) Our actions speak louder than words or appearances. Who we are starts with how we act. How we love, and how we react... The presentation comes later... The inner speaks first whether we like it or not. No words necessary... Our children are spitting images of what we have taught them though our actions. Everyone knows that. Good and not so good... :(

Homes relate to this as well. "Keeping up with the Jones'" type mentality. All the most current furnishings and then there is depression and abuse on the inside. No matter how pretty things seem, there is always pain and suffering of some degree. Everyone has it. Some just hide it better than others. And some of us share it. I still love a fancy table setting and pretty houses. Not sure that will change.

We recently visited the shanty town called Langa Township in Cape Town, South Africa. 50,000 people live here in poverty. We were privileged to walk through this place with a guide that was born there, lived there still and he was educated and adorable. He was devoted to his land and his people. He had a passion for life there. Hard to swallow or understand once you saw this place... Trash and broken glass covered the dirt ground, dirty huge black Aunt Jermima type ladies fried sheep guts and brains to sell for 70 cents, (Yes, the Patrizi's all tried it), barely standing cardboard huts housed three families in one small room, dirty kids played in the streets, not many of them had shoes. But they had smiles. Although they had precious messy faces, their beauty was within. Love in their hearts... The presentation - well not so good.

All my life we have given to the needy, worked at the SOS food bank, walked 20 miles for Muscular Dystrophy, supported cancer, and bought gifts for families not so fortunate. This year we walked in the streets of poverty, experienced the real life of the African children, saw the minimal simplicities and filth of the living conditions... It was good and bad. At the end of our tour, my son, now 27 opened up his wallet and gave all his money to the driver and hugged him real hard.

He was taught that. We have succeeded. I had tears.

Frying sheep inards!

In 2012 I am going to try and be more open to things that aren't appealing on the outside. I am a visual person, pretty houses and pretty people and yummy food all mean something to me. Without tasting the meal, I can see if I like it already. That is not right. Same with life. When everything isn't perfect on the outside, there is goodness on the inside... if you would only give yourself the chance to find it. But first you have to look for it.

Give love.

Sher

A tradition continues...

2011-12-12T20:13:00.000+03:00

Tradition what does that mean to you?

Is it a family favorite dish you make each Holiday, or a way you wrap your gifts? Do you always go to a certain place for Midnight Mass, or search for the pickle on the tree? Do you buy your kids Christmas Pajamas and make them open that one gift on Christmas Eve so they look good on Christmas morning, read the Night before Christmas, watch the Charlie Brown special?

Do you go Christmas Caroling on the 23rd? We do! Actually we have sang Christmas Carols on the 23rd for almost 20 years now. See, the 23rd is Ashlynn's Birthday and that is what she always wanted to do on her birthday every year, so we did it over and over again... We have sang Christmas carols on the 23rd in a pick up truck, a trailer filled with Hay, and horse and buggy in Switzerland and froze to death many times. This year we will do it in Doha for her 20th Birthday. I'm pretty excited about that. (They don't know that yet.)

The Patrizi's have many traditions, some from grandparents years past, and some we have created over our own lifetime. We make a Patrizi Chipino Sauce with a million kinds of seafood on Christmas eve. I will never forget when I was married to David and they made it the first year and I was NOT going to eat it because it had squid in it. YUK! That was before I knew SQUID was Calamari!!! Jeff stuck his fork in my plate after I'd been eating it for 5 minutes and pulled out a bunch of tentacles and I about gagged!!! Now it is a race to see where we can get the freshest seafood, Kemah in the Gulf of Mexico, or the seafood market in the Persian Gulf?

Today I had another traditional event. My Christmas gathering. This year for all hot mammas! Twelve wonderful expat friends with the same Christmas champagne punch I have been making for 25 years and sharing our pasts with each other. Reminiscing about dancing with our Grandmothers in Louisiana, when we told our kids the truth about Santa, best Christmas in Africa spending the day at an orphanage, making sure we taught our kids the gift of charity and GIVING!

Every single story told had nothing to do with materialistic gifts, only moments in time that were instilled in our souls of childhood ~ ONLY FEELINGS, not STUFF!!! I like that.

Makes you realize it is not the gift you give that is remembered, but the way in which it is given. It's the hope you have, the faith in the season, glimpse of happiness and Joy, LOVE and how you end up remembering the most unimportant details.

We paused today from the enormous to do lists, and about 40 kids between us and it was nice.

Whatever is on your list this year, make sure "time" makes the top ten. It's free, you can get it anywhere, no standing in lines, no internet or UPS required. Time to do what you love, walking Bella in the mornings with Fiona, time to rearrange my table top one more time, time to entertain friends and family, time to cuddle. Oh BOY, Time to CUDDLE!!! GROUP HUG coming in 3 nights!!!

I have a Christmas Journal to write down memories I want to recall. Things not to forget and things not to do again. Stuff that works and didn't. One regret I've had over and over was not spending enough "time" doing this or that.

That is exactly what I am asking for Christmas this year, TIME!

A wonderful gift ~ I can give to myself.

HAVE A WONDERFUL CHRISTMAS TIME WITH THE PEOPLE YOU LOVE THE MOST.

My obsession with decorations...

2011-12-10T19:55:00.002+03:00

Tis the season to be Jolly...

Oh come all ye faithful...

Deck the Halls!!! Now were talkin'...

Gifts are wrapped and waiting...

Pinocchio is welcoming you in the Poinsettias...

Lanterns are adorned on the porch...

Old St. Nicholas and his friends are ready to greet you!!!

This is the month for miracles.

Where there is LOVE, there is always miracles... and where there is miracles there is great joy!

December's gifts... some come wrapped with tissue and ribbons, some are not... Some gifts are random acts of kindness and time and effort friends and family put forth to help make your memories fabulous.

The most important gifts really are the memories made.

No shopping or wrapping required.

MY CHILDHOOD SANTA,

A PRICELESS MEMORY

RESIDES IN HIS PROTECTED PASTA GLOBE...

This is the only Christmas decoration, other than the tree that my family had. I feel very blessed to have it now and put it out every year in a safe place...

It is by far the most special decoration I own.

People who know me, know I love Christmas decorations. Maybe it is an obsession. I'm OK with that. Problem is, I don't have it all here in one place. What a pity.

and over time, you collect a bit more... shoot, I might need another 20 foot container when I move...

There is one thing missing though, my nativity scene.

I didn't bring it knowing that it could be confiscated due to the Muslim culture and didn't want to chance that. Religious artifacts are not allowed here although I do have a bunch of crosses and a huge St. Francis statue in my front entry. The nativity is really special, Chris and the kids bought it for me when we lived in Switzerland and it is fabulous. So there is no Mary and Joesph, baby Jesus or 3 wise men here. They are safe in boxes in my closet in the states and I miss it a lot.

It is the one thing we all need more of to remind us over and over again, it is not about the gifts under the tree or the fancy party, the cookies you haven't made yet, and all those last minute things you have to do...

The thoughts of the real reason for the season remains in our heart.

Happy Birthday Jesus...

The table is set and ready for a

Patrizi Safari Christmas!

All I need is them!

Wishing you peace and love and miracles this season...

Sher :)

The evil tongue lingers in the hearts of those we love...

2011-11-05T11:08:00.000+03:00

Last week I had a precious british fellow come to a View and Order appointment alone and get all choked up and teary eyed looking at his precious daughters and wife in the slide show. I always play sappy music that has emotion and I have the Philosophy "If they cry, they Buy!" It usually is true. I have a box of Kleenex beside the computer just in case!!! When you see your family together in loving and a touching environment it is hard not to have your heart swallow up the wonderfulness of the feeling it gives you to know you are a part of this amazing world and emotion fills up your soul looking in the eyes of those you love the most. That is what makes my job fabulous! This is why I do it.

He called his wife in the UK and was overwhelmed with positive things to say. This family had never had a family portrait done before and he bought it from an auction item I had given as a donation of "Hope for Starving Children." His words of boasting and bragging about how fabulous the images are and how he had to get this and that because he just couldn't pick and had to have them all. He complimented me over and over and I was sitting right there feeling like I was successful and had completely fulfilled my quest for customer satisfaction... It was a good night for me. It never occurred to me this was for free ~ because the words he spoke were priceless.

The next day I had a father call from a daycare shoot I had done a few weeks ago. He was rude from the beginning of the conversation. He was unhappy with his image and I offered to let him come here and pick out a different pose but he wanted his money back and I agreed, but in the end he had to dig a little deeper and say something that really hurt my feelings. I took 129 kids at these nurseries that were 1, 2, 3 and 4 years old and were petrified of me and my camera and balloons and assistants.... I knew I couldn't please everyone and was prepared for that. But was it necessary that he make that last rude comment? It ruined my day. It ruined my week.

My Mother is 84 years old and in her 70's she told me when she was a senior in High School her basketball coach called her a nincompoop! She had never forgotten. 60 years later she still held that negative jab in her heart and soul.

We can be told our whole lifetime positive things about yourself, what your good at, compliments about your kids or physical appearance, or just random acts of kindness sent your way, but the one negative stab, hurts you worse than a thousand positive remarks. We are all guilty of saying things we shouldn't!

Our tongue is our worst weapon. The words and swords we throw from our mouth can harm a soul for a lifetime. The beautiful things we can say to others can calm and flourish a soul to grow, but one sharp comment can stay with us forever. I am going to commit to constantly compliment my husband, and friends, random ladies in purple shirts in the grocery store that look pretty, the nice street sweeper, GOD, teachers and especially my children.

Let's be remembered as someone that noticed "the good" in this place called earth.

Bella waiting for trick or treaters tonight...

2011-10-29T20:09:00.006+03:00

Halloween was always one my favorite holidays with the kids when they were young. I worked on costumes for weeks to make them unique and original. We have so many good memories of the witch crashing into the tree in the front yard, bales of hay, giant huge scarecrows and a million pumpkins.

One year they sent Nic home from school because he was too scarey!!! I always want to win the costume competitions, we have a few under our belt. Best was the gorilla caring the boy in a cage. Amanda was a nice witch one year with a green face and it rained. I was always home giving out candy with my momma. (I miss that too!) When Amanda got home her green face and black eyes were smeared all over her face and dress and she cried so hard even if it was over. Alex was always easy, she wanted to be tinkerbell or a football player and Ashlynn wanted to be a princess or jasmine, or sleeping beauty, whatever was on Disney! Chris has his traditional plumber outfit with the real butt crack hanging out about 6 inches. I will never forget the moment he turned around and my mother, his mother and my sister were there and went hysterical... Who would have thought Chris would show his real butt crack!!!

Tonight, I skipped softball to pass out candy with Bella. There are many kids in this compound I totally ADORE! I had tears when one of my favorite little cowgirls came up to see me. All these young families with precious children, and I am the old witch now! Oh well someone has to spoil them, only thing missing was I didn't get to snag all the reeses peanut butter cups out of the pile of candy.

The Patrizi's did give out gummy bear pizzas though, and of course ALL of the 100 traditional oranges with scarey painted faces, and Homer told me all the kids in the compound would avoid my house because I was the old lady that gave out oranges!

Boo!!!!

Dianne Briscoe's Grandma

2011-10-27T18:32:00.001+03:00

"When I look in the mirror

it is not me I see,

I'm on the inside!"

Wise words from 90 year old wrinkled face New Zealand Grandma...

When I was younger...

2011-10-02T09:46:00.000+03:00

I liked baby cows... Still do...

My momma always made sure we appreciated nature, mainly trees and all the animals...

When I was younger I climbed them with my homework and a book. I still love a grand tree. But haven't climbed one lately... But it is my dream to own a fabulous 100 year old oak tree one day in the near future...

I didn't care for Math, but I wasn't allowed to say the word hate, although that is exactly how I felt about it.

I had puppies, birds & hamsters but never a cat.

Puppy breath has to be one of the most weirdest things I still love.

When I was younger I prayed and had a relationship with God as a child. My parents took me to church but rarely went with me, I never understood that...

I used to pray for the best husband in the whole wide world in my nightly prayers,

and he answered me with two... :)

That relationship grew and I am very thankful.

I had two sisters that were much older so felt like an only child, maybe that's why I had four children.

When I was younger I watched TV every single day. So glad I grew out of that. I've replaced it with website, facebook, emails and BLOGS... Which I started for my Mother who no longer reads...

I remember when Kennedy was assassinated, and we landed on the moon,

"One small step for man....One giant leap for mankind!" I'm sure I was wearing a CPO jacket, purple crushed velvet bell bottoms hiphuggers, and moccasins!

I had 100 jobs. I sold terrariums in 7th grade to all my neighbors and even K-mart.

Money was important to me because we didn't have much of it. If I wanted that red bathing suit at Lerners, I had to make my own money to buy it. I still like red bathing suits.

I played in ditches and caught crawdeds. Now we eat them!

When I was young I used to dream about where I would be in the year 2000, I would be 40 and might have kids. Who would have thought this little girl from Stink-a-dena would be in Geneva Switzerland with four kids at the turn of the century!

I've been blessed more than I could have ever dreamed up.

Beautiful family, amazing friends, treasured moments in time...

When I was young I liked geography, now I am living it.

Your past is a combination of who you are,

it grows and grows with bits and pieces of what you did

and your experiences add to who you have become.

If you think about it,

you are not very far from when you were younger. No matter where you were raised...

I have the same respect for nature, faith in God, and cameras I was taught as a child.

Thank God for Cameras... Loving life so I can relive it again, especially now that my brain doesn't remember so much at 51.

I would still play in a ditch, climb a tree and wear those purple hiphuggers again.

There is not much I would change either.

(well, maybe try harder in math, but don't have to because I married Chris!)

I am proud of my roots in po-dunk Pasadena,

like I've said before

"You can take the girl out of Texas, but you can't take the Texas out of the girl."

BE YOU!

Smiles, Sher

Back to work...

2011-09-09T22:28:00.002+03:00

I wished every soul on this planet had a job they loved as much as I do mine.

It is NOT work.

It is total play, fabulous fun, 100% pure joy, invigorating creative moments, wonderful happy times, thrilling and touching.

Please if you do not absolutely love what you are doing right now,

rethink your life.

You are in charge of your own happiness.

**************

I recently went to Europe and was fortunate enough to do a few wonderful shoots.

"Bella Ballerina" ~ Vignale Montferrato Italy,

"New love" and "Faithful Family" ~ Barberra Vineyards and "Lucie in Avusy" ~ Switzerland

Share with others what you are good at.

Sing outloud if you can.

This is my song...

Sher

Morning Prayer ~ By my great Grandpa Cope Tull

2011-09-08T11:48:00.001+03:00

I was cleaning out my Mother's house this summer and found an old purse with this newspaper article in it with a prayer from her grandpa Tull who was born in the 1800's. I would like to share it now.
Funny how all the exact same things were prayed for then, are the same prayers and blessings we have today, 100+ years later. Through all the differences we have since the 1800's, it's the real life things that are still what is important in our lives.

MORNING PRAYER

by Cope Tull

We thank thee, Our Father, for this night's rest.

We thank thee, for this new day.

Forgive our sins, oh Lord, and prepare our hearts and lives for the responsibilities of this day.

We thank thee, oh Lord, for the blessings of life.

We thank thee for health and strength and the right use and exercise of our minds and bodies.

We realize, Oh Lord, that all these blessings come from thy bountiful hand.

We trust in thee this morning for all that we have and all that we are.

Lead and guide us through this day and shield us from all harm and danger.

Bless with us our friends and our kindred.

Bless our children.

We ask thy blessings, oh Lord, upon all for whom we should pray.

Sanctify this food to our bodies, our souls to thy service.

For Christ's sake ~ AMEN

Keep it simple.

Sher

10 Things I love about my kids.

2011-08-18T13:05:00.000+03:00

I recently pulled out a few old Journals from 1994 - 1995 and read a few entries. (before blogs) One was that the most horrible part of being a Mom was combing Amanda's hair. When she was about 6, she acted like I was jerking them out one by one.

Then I held this family meeting when everyone was 2, 4, 6, and 9. We told each other three things we loved about each one and one thing we could do better at. (I was trying to solve some sibling quarrels.) The best part of that was when Alexandra couldn't think of one single thing at all she didn't like about her Dad! :) Cute! She still feels the exact same way today, I'm sure. He is perfect in their eyes, and mine too, to be truthful. Thank you God.

Reading these old memories, made me realize it was time to make a list of

"10 things I love about each one of my children."

So often these days, at this point in our parenting life, we are often criticizing instead of boasting and bragging about the positive. We are nagging about the negative. Or at least that is what I have been doing too much of for the past several years. Living away from them all and not knowing much about their everyday lives leads me to call about only "the issues" and not just to visit about nothing. Did you get your flat fixed? Is the grass dying? Are you watering it? How much? You need to go to church! Did you pay your car insurance? You need to make sure and study hard this semester, Did you buy your books yet? Are you eating right? Praying? Exercising? You are spending your money too fast on going out! Blah Blah Blah, I am positive there are several parents experiencing the same things, living abroad or not! I feel like all I do is gripe at them!

What happened to the times when they helped clean off their plate in the sink and we were ecstatic and applauded them like they have just cured cancer! The older they get, we begin to expect so much more....

It is time again for that boasting and bragging and celebrating and honoring the young fabulous people they are becoming...

I know this is a very personal post and I am sharing way too much maybe, but it is essential in growing that we recognize the changes in parenting and do our best to adjust to the new issues and not make a habit of nagging so much you seldom hear from them. I am trying to practice what I am preaching!!!

My kids are not kids anymore, why am I treating them like they are? For me, I am only the mother, that is all I know how to be to them, for 27 years I have nurtured them, provided for them and guided them, and now I am supposed to sit back and watch from the sidelines and in case they make bad choices, knowing they are going to learn from their mistakes. Mother nature makes us want to prevent all that. But real life says "don't!"

There are no mistakes, only lessons!!!

I have a pillow sitting beside me and I have sort of neglected the saying on it...

"A good Mother is like a quilt, she keeps her children warm but does not smother them!"

I've spent my whole life telling them what to do. Now I am having a hard time stopping, It's called letting go!

I can no longer control if they paid their parking ticket, or took out the garbage from halfway across the world. It's not my job anymore. As weird as that is, relinquishing your duties as a parent little by little is devastating...as well as exciting.. It is not that they don't need us anymore, they need themselves to grow and can't do that unless we release the ties, bonds, strings... one by one, or a few at a time.

It is happening daily to each of us. Remember the first time you allowed them to cross the street alone? Ride the bus? Spend the night away? Driving away from the first dorm room? It is the same release, but for some reason there are not that many strings attached anymore, we have cut most of them off by the time they are 20, 22, 24 & 27 years old.

We can only hope that the magnetic force that pulls the family together is not at all held by strings ~ but by hearts!!

(I just made that up:)

10 things I love about Nicholas

1. He was the most beautiful baby and still has adorable dimples I can't resist.
2. Hilarious personality and incredible story teller
3. Ambition to succeed and his enthusiasm on Christmas morning still at 27! He is not pretentious.
4. Kissing his mother when he was a senior in front of the school and not being embarrassed, he is becoming a very mature thinker.
5. He sings with spirit and draws with amazing imagination, he is talented.
6. His love for his sisters and how well he took care of them his whole life. Nicholas is an essential link in our complete family. The dynamics he brings is fun, uplifting and beautiful. We all adore him.
7. He makes everyone happy to be around him and never meets a stranger.
8. Uses big words and is intelligent, has great friends and a big heart.
9. Creative spirit and uses it daily - his passion for fabulous food and interesting people.
10. Cute and kids adore him, he will make an awesome Daddy!

10 Things I love about Amanda

1. She sings like an angel from heaven. Her voice makes people cry it is so beautiful. Her faithful words when she sings praise music is overwhelming and touching.
2. She is beautiful - Especially with the "bump-it bangs" all pulled back - she is gorgeous.
3. Fabulous body. Looks great in everything she tries on.
4. Her love of family - She truly enjoys being together with family.
5. Adventurous - Tells great stories - writes great stories.. Is humorous. Loves skiing and is great at it.
6. Mocking - a gift as weird as it sounds, is fabulous! Impersonating close to professional!
7. Nack for decorating - sewing - cooking and passion for food. Amazing ETCH-A-SKETCHER!
8. Everyone loves her, especially kids. She was a terrific preschool teacher and will be a great baseball Mom.
9. Amanda is appreciative of compliments, She says "Thank you" and means it.
10. Takes charge of things very well. She is not a wimp. Like a shovel to get an armadillo out of the pool at 5AM and calling 911 when someone is bleeding without panicking! But still very sensitive.

10 Things I love about Alexandra

1. Her calmness and total love for each family member is touching. Never says anything bad about anyone.
2. Responsible, I can always count on her to get things accomplished.
3. Helper - Cinderella, finishes her tasks, she thinks of others first ~ we can all learn from that.
4. Contagious heartwarming laugh.
5. Sweet kind disposition, her love for babies and dogs.
6. Smart in Math, likes square roots and bonds with Chris - a bit jealous of this.
7. Beautiful hair and precious dimples and gorgeous everywhere inside and out.
8. She is giving - and reads so well. Talked at a very early age which was astounding but precious.
9. Alexandra is not complicated, she is straight forward and HONEST!
10. She has a beautiful Faithful heart.

10 Things I love about Ashlynn

1. Littlest thing - adorable all over. Super extra long eyelashes...
2. Cuddles and likes it. Loves her siblings.
3. Dancing machine - fabulous ballerina when she was 3! Beyonce' just wishes she was this good.
4. Caring and loving to others. Makes friends easily. Has a good head on her shoulders.
5. Excellent in writing stories, taking pictures. Is good in English. Her experiences have made her a better person.
6. Has fun and makes others have fun when they are around her - up beat. Sings a lot makes you feel good. Music builds her soul. Can memorize a song the first time she hears it.
7. Super creative in Art - especially Clay - Creative in room design. Loves to rearrange all the time.
8. Really super good athlete for years in sports. Would make a great coach/PE teacher. A natural.
9. Beautiful little body and prefect feet!
10. She is fashionable. Girly girl, I like that.

I chose to celebrate my wonderful son and daughters today.

I am so proud of them all - beyond belief.

I must remind them again.

A Doha moment...

2011-07-27T11:14:00.005+03:00

This is the guy who came to measure for my curtains today...

Not your ordinary tailor right? I was so excited when I answered my door I couldn't concentrate on what he was there for... All I could think was "I've got to get my camera, I have to take his picture!"

I have been dying to photograph the red bearded guys since I have been here but they are not so comfortable being photographed, until today... This gingerhaired Muslim was happy, smiled, and even liked Bella. There is this one I have been stalking that sits on a bench barefoot by the American School everyday but I have never had enough nerve to stop.

I am not sure of the significance of the red dye which I know is Henna, it has something to do with a religious issue, I think it symbolizes a true faith in Allah, but I will get back to you on this.

So for today ~ I hope for all of you interesting characters to pop into your lives as unique as Mr. Red Beard himself.

SMILES!!!

Sher

Only a chair...

2011-07-07T15:16:00.005+03:00

In a field...

This is a typical evening... without a house...

Guido Gullo

To be perfectly honest, this is one of those couples that make you love more just being around them. Thank you Sparky and Debbie for being such an amazing example of true love.

Chris surrounded by love!!!

2011-06-21T06:47:00.003+03:00

When it comes to Fathers, Chris makes it to the tip top!

I can't tell you all the diapers he changed, baths he gave and kisses and hugs he still gives and receives.

Thank you honey for all the shoes you tied and training wheels you took on and off, catches you made at the bottom of the slide and instructions on swimming, spelling, golfing and everything else that you have taught them.

So far only one really likes square roots though.... :)

What you really taught them was love and compassion, faith and gentleness, kindness and honestly all of which you stand for. You have been a wonderful Dad, Father and Teacher.

We love you...

Nicholas, Amanda, Alexandra, Ashlynn

via MOM's BLOG

Fabulous people in my world lately...

2011-05-18T07:53:00.002+03:00

Sheikha Elisabeth!!!

Beautiful Elisabeth graduated from Georgetown University in Doha. She attracted alot of attention with that fabulous blond hair wearing an abia!! She had her picture taken with several cell phones as the Egyptian cooks and workers came barreling out of the restaurants... It was somewhat flattering, even to me.
There is something amazingly pure about this praying shot, something on the lines of biblical times. It gave me goose bumps when I took it.

Then I went to the horse farm... with another fabulous Elizabeth.
Words are not necessary... I named the file WOW... That's appropriate!A little bit of a Texas girl in Doha...
YEE HAW!!!I am in love with this FABULOUS FINE ART PORTRAIT of two precious sisters...
I love it when the locals participate in my photoshoots and the customer buy it!! How cute is that?

There was this handsome Aussie MVP rugby player of the year, Lochlan!!!
Should be supermodel...
Fabulous huh?
And then there was Jack... He wasn't having anything to do with me or my camera, until magically we found "Spiderman" chocolate muffins at the Belgium coffee shop... I drooled while he ate two... Then, WAAH LA ~ He loved me!! and I loved him...
YEP! Those are camels...
Graduate in Doha, and you too can have this shot!
Every moment lately is celebrations... Celebrating fabulous families, babies, graduations. Then there is the "not so celebrating stuff ", like one of our great friends for 5 years leaving Doha... It is part of our world of the expat life, no matter how much we do it, saying goodbye is never easy... May our paths cross again Wardle Family...
Best of luck in your new destination!

Hearts everyday...

2011-05-10T07:44:00.007+03:00

I love heart shaped things.

Especially when they just jump out in front of you while you are walking down the street in Milan, on the beach, or you notice a heart shaped piece of trash when you are in a bad mood and know that is a sign to cheer up!

I used to think it was a coincidence that heart shapes just appeared in my world now and then...
But now I am positive they are sent down by angels, different ones.
Some that know me and are making a point
and some that are just there to help every human on earth
snap back to the reality of
LOVE!!!

NOTICE THEM!!!
It is all around us every day, every minute.
And the best part is they are FREE!!
ROCKS are free, and so are images of them!!!

Sometimes you have to make your own!!!

After all a heart means love.
That is really all that matters in the world is "love" right?

After my fetish with heart shaped rocks over the years, it has now turned into just anything heart shaped. Mainly natural God made things that are sending a message to us to be loved and to love!!!

Alex found this one... A Mother/Daughter love...

It has created a family tradition as well as other people and children collecting them for me. That is special. My girls, all three of them and Nicholas will always notice a heart shaped rock in the cobblestone street, or a smashed piece of gum on the sidewalk shaped like a squashed heart.

I'm really not sure what it means to them....
I just hope they think about me
and how much I love them!!!

The next time you notice a heart shaped object in your path ~ don't ignore it. Smile inside your self, enjoy it's presence in your world.
It's the Earth saying "You are loved!!"

Where has the time gone?

2011-04-07T15:25:00.006+03:00

I have tried to get this blog in English instead for Arabic for a few months now. Today I suceeded.. This is way over due...

2011 has brought a new

understanding to me of "TIME"

I will start off by saying we lost our cousin

Meghan Patrizi on her 30th Birthday in February to cancer. It was a prayerful 9 months and I feel blessed to have been able to spend the last few days with her and her family whom I adore. After the service they let free, a box of gorgeous Butterflies and read this poem:

"A butterfly lights beside us

like a sunbeam,

and for a brief moment

it's beauty and glory

belong to our world.

But, then it flies on again.

And although we wished

it could have stayed,

We feel blessed

to have seen it."

It was a wonderful way to celebrate such an amazing young woman.

Then I have had another life change... We had to put my 83 year old Mother in a Nursing home. You have heard people talk about how hard it is to care for the elderly and it is all very true. As I sat there in that hall all by myself, looking at my Momma as she stares into space, I realized she was no longer the lady that raised me. The one that taught me how to use a camera and take pictures... The woman who was adamant about never saying the word "hate", now uses it often. She only answers questions now, her soul was empty. A lady who in any given moment could have told you the batting average of every single Astros player until last year. Now she doesn't even care who the Astros are. I miss my Momma already ~ even before she is physically gone and that's terribly hard.

I value myself as usually being a really upbeat positve person, but there comes times in your circle of life where there is a time for love, a time for life and a time to cry and a time for death.

I really dislike those last two.

I sat at the pool yesterday with a Flat Stanley I had dressed like an Arab for a first grader in California. Now he is Ali bin Ali Abduellah Stanley... We watched a 3 year old boy jump into the cold water and squeel a shrill little squeel and jump up and down a few times waving his arms in the air, then he said "Momma, Momma, watch me!! watch me!!!" I thought of all those times I watched Nicholas jump in the pool and put his face in the water and I would clap and be so proud. And today I sat there alone with a paperdoll dressed in a thobe.

Where has the time gone?

30 something years ago David Patrizi was a fabulous Rugby player, he was honored this past month and inducted into the Rugby Hall of Fame at his college. Nicholas and Amanda were able to attend with David's parents and we were all proud of him too.

Where has time gone?

To some of the new angels and stars in heaven it has gone way too soon, to my Momma it has been a long road, to that little boy in the water he has a lot of jumps to make and that new Momma has so many praises to say... I am still very proud of Nicholas but he doesn't ask me to watch anymore. I miss that.

Where has time gone?

I met a cute gal at lunch this week and although I am not a fan of tatoos, I LOVED hers. On the inside of her arm it read "live now".

I am trying my best to do that.

But sometimes we all need to be reminded.

I am not going to get a tat,

but do remind me now and then when things get in the way and we forget.

"LIVE NOW!!!"

Here's to being 80+ and Enjoying it!

2011-01-08T18:05:00.004+03:00

THURSDAY!!!!

CHANGE YOUR FACE GRANDPA!!!

Grandpa Ralph is starting to forget a lot.

But his personality and pizazz for life is still going strong. He goes out and dances with Grandma Mid a few times a week, works out and always always has a smile on his face.
Mid is quite the dancer at 83-ish, and she wiggled around to "My humps - My humps" on Christmas Day and we all enjoyed it totally!!!

Grandpa sang Kereoke to
"I've got a crush on you!"
and I felt like I was in 1952...
(I'm sure he wishes he were too)
He still enjoys good food, wine and family just as much as he used to. And Grandma, well she's got the dancing fever and is terrific at it....

Here's to you Ralph and Mid, may your hearts stay young forever!!!

OFF THE WALL - Portrait Art

2011-01-08T17:09:00.004+03:00

Here is my favorite of the shoot
"OFF THE WALL!!!"
I loved this family... Especially the husband willing to sit in a white T-shirt and eat about 15 pieces of KFC over and over again!!!
Now we are really on to something new.
Not your typical old Olin Mills here anymore....
I am going to have to think of a lot of excuses to borrow the couch from the clubhouse more often.

They weren't all Off the Wall, some images were awesome and beautiful.

This was so much fun and I can't wait to do the next one, It's going to be hilarious. Grown up Dad/boyscout, Mom holding a fish? Can't wait...
Stay tuned...

A little creature came to visit.....

2011-01-08T16:48:00.005+03:00

Yep I got to hold another newborn. This time
only 5 days old.... You still can't believe it...
Precious little creature....
God was so smart...

Then they grow up......
and WHAAA LA
beautiful young lady...
WOWSenior shoots booking now!!!
I LOVE MY JOB!!!

Chris' Christmas Painting revealed!!!

2011-01-08T13:28:00.007+03:00

This summer in Austin, I met this interesting artist,

Duke Sir Highness Michael D Peschka...

He was painting a really cool distorted face guy eating a sandwich on the Jalopy (my son's restaurant on wheels) and "The Duke" was drinking MD2020 mimosas! Ya know, as Artists in Austin would do on a Tuesday at 10AM!!! :) So we immediately bonded... (As you would being from Pasadena Texas and have had a taste of MD 2020!!!) So, #1 had something in common with the Artist! Plus he signs his name with a crown and I liked that.

I commissioned Michael to paint our family in a fun pasta and wine setting. I sent him to my website and told him to make sure he got Grandpa Vic's old pasta machine in it, and Bella of course...

There is more to the story but I have to say the word nipple and I am not sure that is appropriate for this blog? But I already said it, so OK whatever !@#$%^&*()!!!

If you haven't figured out already, I pretty much say exactly what I am thinking. If you are reading this it is kinda like talking to me. I don't hold back much, what ya see is what you get. I apologize if nipple offends you!

In the beginning, the actual original request was for him to paint me a fat naked lady. I have a collection of fat naked ladies. Nothing perverted or real nasty or anything,

just fat and naked.

He said OK, so I left with a hand shake. On the way home I decided I would rather have a family rendition done of all of us Patrizi's having our normal cooking & eating Italian style... So I called and changed my mind. I told him "No fat naked lady, but if my nipple was peeking out that was fine!"

I was just kidding... kinda.

He later told Nicholas, "Your Mom is kinky!!!"

So here it is.... Chris' Christmas Surprise Painting...
"CHATEAU PATRIZI"
It is a whopping four foot by four foot in our Austin house.
There is a fat naked lady in the background after all and just FYI, I Photoshopped the nipple off 77% opacity for the Blog, for personal embarrassing reasons.
BUON APPE"TIT"O!!!
SALUTE!

(Sometimes I even crack myself up!)
HAPPY 2011
Smiles,
Sher

OFF THE WALL SERIES ~ "UNPLUGGED"...

2010-11-06T14:08:00.003+03:00

My new series of Portrait Art... "Off the Wall"
I had the perfect family...
All very willing to go along with my outrageous ideas and here is a shot of the scene
with my awesome assistants... Lisa and Raquel.

She wanted something different,
I can do different...
WE ARE HAVING FUN NOW!!!!
Smiles,
Sher

Fabulous people in my recent Lifestyle Photography

2010-10-27T07:53:00.008+03:00

DOUBLE adorable TROUBLE!!!

YES, they are twins!!!
(I told their parents I hope I knew them when they were 16!)

I absolutely love my job!
I know I have said that a thousand times, but I can't help it.
Everyday is different.
Business people, little kids, pregnancies, Sport teams.
It is the perfect career for my AAD and CRS...
(Adult Attention Distraction and Can't Remember Shit)
Here is a glimpse into the last two months in the
"Patrizi Real Lifestyle Photography

for Fabulous People World".This is my really good photographer friend and her family.Beautiful couple ~ there are 2 of God's little creations in there....
It's the season of twins!!!...and then,
I fell in love at the Qatar Little League
LOOK at those eyes!!!
He is about 7!!!
Next week I have the Swim Team, a new born and tomorrow I am shooting A Halloween gig, and one of my very favorite 6 year olds with his family and we share the same Birthday.

When I found out I was so excited, I said
"Ryan I am going to be 50 and your going to be 6 on October 1st!"
and he said "So, Ms. Patrizi, When I am 50, you will be hummmmmmm..... and I said "DEAD!!"

Stay Fabulous!!!
Sher*

Where did my upper lip go?

2010-10-23T22:33:00.003+03:00

I know I had an upper lip at one point, but I have just realized it is gone. How does that happen? You turn 50 and just poooffff NO LIP!

Then that leads us middle age gals to think we should try and regain our youth. So instead of going to the lip rejuvenation doctor I thought I would just see what I could do with the one I have got first in Photoshop... I can't even photoshop a new one on... It completely disappears when I smile. I refuse to do Botox on my lip in fear of looking like a platypus.

So I guess that is one more thing that I will learn to live without. I can still talk, eat, drink from a straw and kiss my sweetie. Look at the good side, my lipstick will last twice as long now.

Maybe if I just continue to wear low cut shirts with cleavage no one will notice.

Celebrating Empty Nesting...

2010-08-31T09:42:00.005+03:00

Who says empty nesting has to be sad and miserable and lonely.

If you have prepared your children to be the best they can be in the adult world then why not embrace this new season of your life? I am taking the attitude after Sybil my assistant and friend here in Doha, she has four kids that are gone and she is excited. After all, we have been doing the "Mom thing" now for 26 years...
Isn't it time for us?

Yes it is....
I choose to celebrate !

Something is missing...

2010-06-15T16:55:00.005+03:00

CHILDREN!!!
I have no more children...
The only thing remaining in her room now
is a lonely wrinkled used blue graduation gown
hung sideways on the hanger dangling from the open deserted closet door.
The room is empty now and echos with cold silence...

Life changes regardless if you are ready or not.
Remember that saying "Ready or not, Here I come!"
Well it is true.

Day 5
after the mass exit of all kids and grand parents.
The dust has settled here in the villa...
Graduation is over.
A vase of smelly water and six once beautiful wilted red roses
from Josh the boyfriend,
that I am trying not to throw out,
lingers in the kitchen...
and life for Ashlynn has only just begun...

Life for me, well, I am really not sure.
Is it the beginning, the end, or the beginning of the end?

Breakfast is lonely now.
Bella has a worried look on her face.
Chris and I can actually talk about something besides what time curfew is...
and disagree..
(He always let them stay out later)

Today is bittersweet.
Bitter because I don't think you are
ever really finished raising kids or being a mother.
But you wake up one day and they do not need you anymore.
To be honest, everything else that matters, it is really time for them to teach themselves.

Sweet because I have been worried and fretting and consumed with
grades, friendships, curfews, appropriate clothing, teenage issues, drama, boyfriends, girlfriends, what is right, what is not, driving, drinking,
where the role of parenting stops and where it doesn't...
and now I do not have to think about all that 24/7.
I'm FREE!
They are free too.
It's time...and I like that.
It feels good because I know we did the best we knew how.
I know they will always remember where home is,
who God is
and the love of family is instilled in their hearts.
I feel like a 3 ton heavy chain has been weighting down my shoulders
these past 13 years of raising four teenagers.
Hallelujah
Praise the Lord - we made it!!!
The Patrizi kids are all now young adults,
fending for themselves and living together
in a very small house in Austin Texas this summer.

A perfect reality sitcom...

One overgrown boy in black flannel robot shorts and no shirt, wearing cowboy boots,
sitting next to his 3 foot pile of laundry and three half grown sisters
waiting on him, rubbing his back and working part time at his sandwich rig
all wearing each others clothes, wondering who is paying for groceries,
who ate all the Owens sausage biscuits,
fighting over who's turn it is to clean the kitchen
and I am not there to referee!!!

It is a beautiful life.

It is time to celebrate
what we have accomplished
in all the hard work and endless time and energy
you put into making sure they wear clean underwear and study.

It is time to be proud of the people they have become.
It is time to realize
if they do not wear clean underwear
it is not your problem.

I am jealous when I hear them all laughing
and seeing the girls together on Skype lying in the same bed
cracking up and hugging and just generally loving each other.
What an awesome feeling in my bones.

There is a part of me that can't wait to get there and be a part of it,
and then knowing it is only for a short time.

One day in the next few months, I will drive away from that laughter
get on a plane and travel back to the other side of the universe alone
and only see and hear them through cyberspace.

I am not the only one in the world doing this.
But it doesn't make it any easier.

They will always be my children,
I will always be their Mother...

Our lives will be lived apart, on other sides of the world
only to reunite on occasion.
But,
It will be like Christmas every single time we are together.
I am excited about that.

It is the season for freedom...

Now that all the kids are gone,
I have to make sure
Chris is not serious about having a
naked room.

Smiles,
Sherry

Once upon a time.....

2010-05-23T10:06:00.009+03:00

Once upon a time there was a very happy young couple....

having pretty little girls...

and then another...

Little sister
listens and anticipates
the arrival of the new sibling in her life...

Oh what a day to cherish...

I can't express the
"wonderfulness"
to be the person that is able to

stop the time,

savor the moment,
and
create the memory...

As Daddys play with little girls

and mammas kisses toes
Carpe diem....

Seize the day!!!

Tomorrow is different....

This is what being a photographer is all about.
My camera is like a time machine...
In it, I preserve today!
How cool is that!

I got everything I wanted for Mother's Day... my kids....

2010-05-13T17:13:00.002+03:00

I feel very proud and privileged to have such a fine group of young people to have been blessed with the honor of being their Mother.

Living through the eyes of other people's children...

2010-04-19T11:53:00.010+03:00

As my life comes to another decade and chapter...

Empty nesting and turning 50,
I don't know which is worse...

Or should I say which is better!!! :0

My children are growing up which is a good thing,
it's like the
Lion King ~ the Circle of Life,
it is supposed to be this way,
kids leave the nest, and Moms turn 50!

But there is always something good that comes out of turning the page of life.
I could be 50 and in a bad mood, or
I could be 50 and act it!

I could be an empty nester with nothing to do
because I had devoted all my life to kids
instead of making one for myself along the way...

Looking back...
25+ years of being a Mom
Then one day there is no PBJ lunches to make,
no one to stay awake and pray to see the headlights turn down the driveway.
No report cards, teacher conferences, no bleachers to sit on.
Even though there is Vonage, Skype, Email, Texting, IM and phone calls,
there is still no bleachers.

I have sat on bleachers watching little league baseball, soccer, football, cheerleading, dance recitals, swim team, middle school volleyball, basketball
(which was terrible score 2 - 0),
high school dance competitions, walked golf courses, football season tickets, Rugby games,
tennis matches, volleyball, you name it we have sat and watched it and photographed it!!!.

So now what?

Now I sit at a computer and stare into the eyes of children,
Children that are not mine, but for a split moment in time ~ I can pretend.
I spend one hour taking the shots, and 3 hours looking at them afterwards.

Seeing the wonder and enchantment in their eyes,
and the pure raw love in the eyes of the Moms and Dads.

Knowing that this moment in time
is brief
and every minute
should be cherished.

Every bleacher you sit on, enjoyed......
because one day your seat is filled with another younger Mom.

So today I will not sit here and feel sorry for myself
because I am going to be 50 and not have any kids left to tend to,
I am going to celebrate others that have a lifetime of bleachers to sit on...

Rose and Mike,
Finley might not have started walking yet,
but sooner than you think he will be running on a field somewhere...
buy a cushion, and linger.
How lucky you are to just be beginning the
Circle of Life...

Best of luck in Singapore, Doha will miss you.

Cupcake Art

2010-03-07T17:15:00.006+03:00

Yes, It is a Bella cupcake...

I bought this at the Friendship Festival this weekend at ASD. It has to be the most adorable cupcake I have ever seen. It has been sitting on the counter in the kitchen for 2 days while Mr. Patrizi has salivated over eating it. But he wouldn't dare!!! He has asked several times, "What are you going to do with that?"

About 9 months ago I had a one year Birthday shoot and I had iced a pretty pink cupcake with sprinkles and a candle and put it on a pretty pedestal, left it in the kitchen went to the shoot in the Souqs and when I returned with the baby, guess what....

NO CUPCAKE!!!
Chris was sitting on the stool with icing on his face!!!

I had a fit, and he ran to the store and came back with a muffin and he iced it and made it into a Birthday muffin.
Now would you eat a cupcake sitting on a pedestal with a candle in it if it weren't your Birthday?
He is getting the Bella cupcake tonight in his plate,
she only licked it a little bit...

Having your Cake and eating it too!!!

2010-02-16T20:22:00.003+03:00

Precious Connor turns O-N-E!!!

Following your heart...

2010-02-13T23:10:00.007+03:00

It is Valentines Day, February 14th 2010.
What "love" do you have?

My love is when I get to see one of my college kids on Skype,
even if they are showing me stitches from the night before.:(

My heart is full and empty,
happy and sad, up and down. I miss my kids...

We all do not know why we are here,
but we do know this is where we are suppose to be
at this time in our lives.

Have I followed my heart to Doha?
I would have to say yes I did.
I followed my LOVE to Doha and my heart came along.

For me, I have a love I am forever thankful for.
"Mr. Smooth" some call him, today with a sore hamstring.

20 something years of a sweetheart that is ever growing...
He makes everything alright. No matter where my heart decides to wonder...
My sweet Chris the Gentle heart.

I have followed my heart and it brought me here and
I am fortunate, lucky and thankful.

But what advice do you tell your kids
about following their heart?

At any given moment, one of the four is trying to decide whether or not to follow their head, or their heart?

Sometimes we have to do both...

Nicholas ~ I am so proud of you for really trying so hard to follow your heart. I believe in you and believe your world
will be a better place because you seek it...
The Happy heart.
Amanda ~ You will find the right path soon to follow once college is over and real life kicks in...
You will find joy in your heart,
because you create it...
The Joyous heart.
Alexandra ~ Following your heart will be harder because you think so logically your brain overrides your heart, which is something we can all learn a lot from...
The Sensible heart.
Ashlynn ~ Sometimes following your heart is hard. Nobody ever said it was going to be easy...That is when your brain has to take over.
Consult with sister #2...
The Young heart.

Today I wish for my children and all my family and friends
a moment to pause
and really ask yourself

"Am I following my heart?"
And if you can say "yes" to that -
rejoice, you are lucky...

And if you say "no",
then change something.

Following mine today, Sher

One big happy Family...

2010-02-10T16:33:00.006+03:00

Recently I had the privilege,
and I do mean privilege,
to do a photoshoot of a family I consider friends,
with kids I know and love.

I just wanted to share a brief peek
into the fun and genuine laughter
this family shares on a regular basis.

If we could all be so light hearted,
sweet to each other,
faithful, loving
and most of all
just enjoy the moments
you are together...

Thank you Albanese Family
for sharing your Joy with me....

I had a great day....

2010-02-03T21:04:00.005+03:00

This is why...

Seniors Last Chance....

2010-01-31T20:27:00.006+03:00

Calling all Seniors....

We have a few appointments left for the 2010 Seniors.
Please book your shoot before
March 15th
to insure your prints and invitations will be back in time for Graduation.

Don't miss out...

Announcment...

2010-01-31T12:24:00.001+03:00

Amanda calls the rug!!!
:)

Too busy to BLOG, This is why...

2010-01-24T22:30:00.009+03:00

OMG!!! That stands for OH MY GOD!!!

These were the cutest twins on earth... I fell in love but did not loose 10 pounds doing the shoot like I had hoped for. Anais and Alira from Australia...

I could go on and on...but for some reason my computer is not allowing me to upload any more images...

I have met new people, been with old ones, shared laughs and really enjoyed the past month with all my clients ~ that are now my friends.

January has been very busy in Doha. The weather is fabulous, friendships are plentiful, there is so much to do, and life is good. We are all working hard...

Amazing enough, I even have on a sweater... It is below 65 degrees I think and we whimps are all freezing.

As the first month of 2010 comes to a close I stop to think about if I did anything different or tried to be a "better me" like I said I was going to do...

So far I can honestly say nope, haven't changed a thing... I haven't exercised more, eaten less chocolate, been nicer to my kids, prayed more often, given more time for charity 0r none of that. But I continue to find positive moments to be thankful for every day. Sometimes that is all we can ask for...

February brings love and flowers and more chocolate, Oh boy!!!
Keep smiling... It's contagious...
Sher

When I die....

2010-01-24T21:03:00.002+03:00

Tonight as I was discussing, is there a such a thing as a rug that is too big? Ashlynn, my youngest of four said:

"We have so much stuff MOM, when you die, it is going to be like Christmas.... Three Christmases!!!"

WOW, think of that.... When I die, it is going to be like Christmas... I kinda like the way that sounds. A wonderful celebration, of family and friends... Not that I want it to be too soon. I am still collecting gifts for everyone.

I wonder who will get the rug?

Foodies....

2009-12-30T10:58:00.005+03:00

Pasta, pasta and more pasta....

2009-12-29T09:38:00.004+03:00

There is something amazing about fresh pasta.

And even more amazing about making it through your Grandfather's 50+ year old pasta machine...

Is there a such a thing as too much pasta?

Not in our house....

Our family spends most of our time in the kitchen...

Chris, Nicholas and Amanda received a cooking class with a Michelin Star chef for Christmas and made amazing food for Ashlynn's 18th Birthday...

We love Pasta...

I should weigh 250...

Missing my girls.... all over the world...

2009-12-16T21:45:00.003+03:00

The most beautiful discovery
best friends can make
is
that they can grow separately
without growing apart...

Baby Bellies...

2009-12-13T15:38:00.004+03:00

There is a wonderful feeling when a pregnant woman is around.

I love it.

I liked it so much I did it four times ....

But now I am getting up close and personal with a few bellies. My sweet precious friend Charlene from New Zealand is about to deliver in a few weeks. She has become a great photographer pal and wonderful friend. We did this shoot this weekend and it was so fun.

Love ya Char ...

Happy Birthing....

Sher

My new Favorite Senior

2009-12-06T21:12:00.004+03:00

I haven't cried during a photoshoot in a while. Usually it is with young couples and pregnant bellies, but this day was different... This young man played the grand piano so beautifully I got teary eyed and had to stop and wipe my cheeks. Then he played the guitar and then the violin. WOW.

This is a special young man. He was on the swim team, runs track and is just an amazing gentleman. Plus extra bonus, He loves his mother... You know the kind, one like you want to marry your daughter...

Being around these incredible 18 year olds for an hour brings back my high school days. Boy is it different now. I still never grew taller, only wiser and wider...

If I had it to do all over again,

I would take piano lessons...

TWO WORDS ~ BALI BABY

2009-12-06T20:27:00.007+03:00

How does she do that?

View from Breakfast...

Rice Fields on Bike tour...

Brushes in China Town...

Bali is not what I expected... It was better...

The real life of the Balinese was simple. The scenery was breathtaking... We took an amazing cycling tour through the rice fields and it was wonderful, even if I did whimp out the last uphill climb. Banyan Tree Cycling Tours...

But the highlight was sitting with the Orangutans at the Singapore Zoo. My favorite animal.

I can't wait to be a Grandma...

13 days until my children show up home away from home...

As you all are preparing the Pumpkin bread, Pecan Tassies and gathering gifts,

leave time for the needy, church, quiet time and starting your own family traditions. The season is only here for a short time, make the best of it, do something nice for someone that is not expecting it. Say "no" to things that aren't important.

Remember the pasts and look forward to the future but for now, enjoy the present.

ho ho ho,

Sher

I am Thankful for....

2009-11-23T11:36:00.003+03:00

I am Thankful for waking up every morning.

I am Thankful for my very quiet wonderful gentle husband.

I am Thankful for my four amazing children and the other precious children in my life, some I have known all their lives and a few I have just met!

I am Thankful for the grandchildren I haven't met yet...

I am Thankful for my Family and extended family, especially my precious Momma of 82 years.

I am Thankful for birds that sing, dog that look cute, sun that shines, beautiful flowers and air to breathe.

I am Thankful for faith in God.

I am Thankful for forever Friendships near and far...

I am Thankful for airplanes to bring my children to me.

I am Thankful for Chris' cooking and his family that taught him how.

I am Thankful for Internet, telephones and all the modern conveniences that keep us connected.

I am Thankful for Chevron and the experiences they have given us.

I am Thankful for Health, Happiness, and Chocolate, by all means do not forget chocolate.

I am Thankful for being able to be myself in times when I should try to act differently but don't.

I am Thankful for teachers, schools, doctors and my prayer warriors.

I am Thankful for where I am knowing it is where I am supposed to be.(even if it is in Doha Qatar)

I am Thankful for the chance to dream of the future.

I am Thankful for the God given talents I have been fortunate to use passionately everyday, and the wonderful people I meet through my lens.

I am Thankful for chocolate, Oh, Did I say that already?

...and candles to light daily to remind me of warmth of the home.

I am Thankful of time, and the spirit of the season.

What are you thankful for?

Happy Thanksgiving bloggers and readers.

Enjoy your familes but help clean up the dishes.

Smiles,

Sher

Toddlers... Teens...Events & Seniors...

2009-11-15T08:17:00.009+03:00

HOW CAN YOU RESIST THESE CHEEKS?

THE LOVE OF A FATHER...

Angel Faces...

a handsome fellow...

and an evening to kick up your heels...

Patrizi Photography, and "the Photographer" are in full swing!!! The season is here... I feel the clock ticking rapidly, the daily wheel is turning a knotch faster, my head is spinning more than usual...and it is fun...

(although we might have cereal for dinner a few nights this week...)

But today in the midst of it all, I redecorated my table, read in my Christmas journal with my dog in my lap, had coffee with a dear friend and prayed a bit extra.

Dog walks are getting shorter, phone calls and lunches less, and the excitement of the Holiday Season upon us... Families are discussing who is bringing the pumpkin pie, and making Grandma's cornbread dressing and we are headed to Bali.

What is on your Christmas List?

All I want for Christmas is my four kids to be all together.

Until then, I am going to continue to create timeless images to remind us when we are old, of the moment we are in today, where we are now...So we can remember then...

Making time stand still...

If only I could do that in real life.

No matter what ~ make time for yourself.

You are worth it!

Morning funny...

2009-11-05T06:50:00.000+03:00

GRAVITY STINKS!

Days are getting shorter....

2009-11-02T08:52:00.007+03:00

BOO.....

Bella's Halloween Costume...

Cupcakes for Pumpkin patch...

(Is this the last time I bake for Halloween at school?)

Have you noticed the days are getting shorter? I have... Not enough hours in a day to complete all the things I need to do... Luckily I have been blessed with an assistant lately that has taken the load off a bit and allowed me to have lunch with friends and volunteer at the school now and then and do free shit for people without feeling guilty. Sybil has creativity, attitude and technical suave that is by far way better than mine. Between sport teams and website/blog and marketing ideas, Patrizi Photography is "gettin er done" with Syb... Thanks hun!!! I don't have an intimidating picture of her to post but will take one soon... :)

Halloween was awesome, just like Texas but different. There were fairy princesses, ghosts, goblins, and everything in between. This is my favorite Fairy Maddie Mae...

Here we are handing out the genius idea of painted pumpkin faces on oranges... Healthy and spooky treat...

I did a newborn shoot on Halloween too... Precious Aili pronounced 'Eye lee' Oh was she a beauty and so well behaved... no mustard poop this week...

...then on to softball... another loss, but it was fun and I'm not a sissy! ha..

I made Grandma cry...

2009-10-21T06:50:00.003+03:00

ELLA

Baby Ella was the perfect size for my idea...

Although what I didn't know when we were shooting this, is that Grandma was CRYING! She was so worried the baby would fall.

(Ashlynn told me she was praying in the corner...)

Well it worked.

I don't get a chance to shoot or hold naked newborns anymore because I hang out with old people like me with college kids and Seniors. So this was a treat...

What a precious family...

Senior Graduation Invitations 2010

2009-10-18T13:37:00.002+03:00

You could order your invitations from a reputable company that's been around, oh say, a hundred years

or

You could even borrow your grandmother's granny panties

BUT, WOULD YOU???

I didn't think so.

Welcome to the Present
Class of 2010!

Say it YOUR Way

With Sherry Patrizi Photography

It's not your grandma's graduation, so why order cards from the company SHE ordered cards from? Come on, seniors!

THINK IT! SAY IT!

I WILL DISPLAY IT.

After all, graduation day is all about YOU! Don't hold back. Show the world who YOU are. Here is a small sampling of what Sherry Patrizi Photography can do for you.

Bella's Bath Day...

2009-09-22T13:50:00.006+03:00

OK, If you do not own a dog, you are missing out.

This little ball of fur is my all time sweetest dog ever. Actually she is an almost human dog. The joys she brings to my world ever single day are many... Yes, I do pick up her poop, so I guess it is more like we are her people pets and she is really the boss, and I am perfectly OK with that.

I have never let one of my four children sleep in my bed but Bella well, she is special. This is what happens when all your children are almost grown. It is slightly sickening. I talk to her, hold her in my lap when I work, take her on 3-5 walks a day, give her treats, comb her hair, take her to doctor, doggie beauty salon and her cuts cost about as much as mine! She has special shampoo, drinks bottled water, and has special food you can't buy at the grocery store.

This ain't no dingo....

I paid 4,000 Qatar Riyals for her which is more than some people make in a year over here. My little houseboy Jacko asked me how much? How much? five times and I was too embarrassed to tell the truth, but I finally told him... So he doesn't call her Bella, he calls her "Four thousand!" (That is equal to about $1000 USD the price of all of our dogs in our entire lifetime combined and then some....)

Just call me Paris.

Although I do not own a Louis Vuitton purse to carry her in and I have not bought any Ed Hardy clothing, but have been tempted to see if they make little booties for her feet when the sidewalks are so hot she can't go outside during the daytime.

I can't help myself. Ashlynn is almost 18, I do not have to bathe her, dress her, feed her anymore. She is just about done with me. As I write this, she is in her room filing out College applications, (or facebook):)

A little dog is much better than the alternative, another child...

So until I am a grandma, which I am still working on the cutest word in the dictionary for my grandkids to call me... "hoochie mamma", and "Dude" is what I am thinking now, I am going to spoil my little fur ball rotten...and pretend I am needed as a mommy again...

If I could just teach her how to do Photoshop.....

Kids grow up, I don't think anyone warned me about that part. I've been so preoccupied and overwhelmed on how to raise them that I didn't realized it was only for a short moment of your life. Blink and it's over....

So for now, I will sit on every bleacher at every Volleyball and Tennis game, work the concession stand, be present at every parent function, bake cookies, join Graduation committees, and encourage the college application process, only to know that before long I will be sitting alone at home with my dog on my lap...

Be nice to your furry friends they don't leave home....
Sher

New meaning for "Smarty Pants"

2009-09-03T15:40:00.003+03:00

We are in an age when media puts into our heads the idea that only skinny people are beautiful.

But I prefer to enjoy an ice cream with my kids, a good dinner with a man who makes me shiver and a coffee with my friends. With time we gain weight because we accumulate so much information and wisdom in our heads that when there is no more room it distributes out to the rest of our bodies.

So we aren't heavy, we are enormously cultured,educated and happy. Beginning today, when I look at my butt in the mirror I will think, ¨Good gosh, look how smart I am¨

Have a fun day!

Sher

Do angels have wings?

2009-09-03T09:57:00.014+03:00

Often I am reminded by real people

that seem to be angels in my life

that maybe,

just maybe,

not all angels have wings...

Some just might be your next door neighbor that knocked at the perfect time, or that amazing teacher that has taken your "new to the school" student by the hand. Angels to me can be real people just placed here on earth to help us through stages in our lives.

We all have them, and believe me

we all need them.

I have a few.

Some are here on earth and some are not.

Some come and some go...

You can tell these so called real life angels are real angels by the way they sincerely and wholeheartedly listen to you, guide you, laugh with you and sometimes allow you to make mistakes and tell you it is all going to be OK. And something about the way they say it, you know they are right. Angels comfort you...

Some are young and some are older, some are female and some are not. Angels come in many colors, shapes and sizes...

I am thankful for all the wingless ~ walking ~ talking angels in my world past and present...

But there are days that... Sometimes you have to be someone's angel too...

Keep those wings ready, even if you have never flown before... :)

Blessings to all...

Sher

Awesome Oaks....

2009-08-29T19:59:00.002+03:00

As I wandered through the enormous live oaks at the Houmas House right around the corner from my Mother-in-law's home near New Orleans this summer, I couldn't help but think of all the people who have come and gone under these branches.

To think of all the hurricanes that have hit the Gulf Coast for the past say 200-300 years and these majestic monstrosities are not harmed.

The roots are deep and strong...The way you hope your family will be. The branches reach 50 yards it seems in each direction bowing down to touch the ground in some places. These are some of the most fantastic trees I have ever seen in the world.

I have always said I want a hundred year old live oak to call my own before I die. I want to sit under it and pray, and dream, and reminisce of younger years. I want to play with my grand children and picnic and laugh and have happy hour under one that I can name myself and that will become a legacy in our family... I want it on a place that we never sell. I have secret day dreams about a day in Spring when I am at home with little people again, the ones I can spoil and then give back...

Until then, I will live in Doha, and finish raising the little one left at home... I want to be that live oak for her, branches to protect and hug, and deep roots to weather the storms...

Blue Eyes...

2009-08-29T19:56:00.003+03:00

Big Eyes...

2009-08-29T19:50:00.005+03:00

This summer I had the honor to be chosen

God Mother of Kelly and Elizabeth Gibson's

second daughter Ava in New Orleans Louisiana.

MORE faces of Summertime....

2009-08-23T16:24:00.004+03:00

Reuniting with old friends and making a few new ones....

Now back to Doha...

Faces of Summertime!

2009-08-22T09:46:00.007+03:00

Summertime was spent surrounded by those we love....

6,246 miles later.....

Favorite Sign this Summer....

2009-08-20T10:47:00.002+03:00

My God Daughter - AVA

2009-08-04T02:43:00.001+03:00

I couldn't say it any better.....

2009-08-04T02:24:00.005+03:00

I am on vacation.... Please read the posts of my friends... They say it all so well...
http://danforddesign.blogspot.com/2009/07/took-more-than-i-gave.html

http://diddebdoit.blogspot.com/2009/07/monday-monday.html

http://diddebdoit.blogspot.com/2009/08/more-about-last-week.html

NOTHING BETTER THAN GREAT GIRLY FRIENDS AT A GREAT GIRLY PLACE, NOT AFRAID OF HEARING TRUTH, SAYING TRUTH, AND SHARING BULLSHIT....

Photography Workshop this Weekend...

2009-07-21T18:50:00.003+03:00

I am teaching a Photography Workshop this weekend in Carmine... One of the cutest towns in Texas, not even a traffic light... It is at my friend Deb Taylor's Bed and Breakfast and Art Bodega, July 26th and 27th.

Contact Deb Did It if you are interested in a 2 day fun filled bonding together Art and Photography with my friend Staci Danford and I.

Deb's contact information is heritagehaus@yahoo.com

Only fun seekers need apply...

DAD, a short word for such an Incredible Man...

2009-06-21T17:39:00.007+03:00

Baby Chris... Ahhhhhh!

Although we are not together today...

Daddy, we love you!!!

You are so much more than just a Dad.

Our children are so blessed to have been chosen to be raised by you.

This is Chris and the girls and his Father's day gift, an ancient pasta machine from Grandpa Patrizi's Restaurants... No telling how old this monster is... All I know is it makes great pasta and wonderful family memories...

For those of us that do not have our Fathers here on earth, take the time today to reflect on the wonderful things they brought to our lives, and continue to spread the good stuff to our kids...

Mothers and Daughters

2009-06-13T08:04:00.005+03:00

The girls and I have been on a Mother daughter bonding moment. I am so excited to have them all together, even if it is in Doha.

Our two weeks here all together has been heart warming. Lots of laughing, cooking, reminiscing about home videos, shopping, blaring techno music in the kitchen, trying on each others clothes, shoes, purses... You know girly stuff only sisters do...

The last day of school we picked Ashlynn up and Amanda had this funny look on her face... The first thing Ash said was " I had to look cute on the last day of school Amanda!" She was wearing her dress. Just like old times... Amanda was carrying Ashlynn's purse Josh bought her. It's all GOOD!!!

I am so proud of all of them. They are all so beautiful inside and out... and different in a good way... Amanda and Alexandra in college and Ashlynn is officially now a Senior in High School. Yesterday they were selling Lemonade on the corner of Summer Oaks Drive, today we discussed GPA's, jobs and future spouses...

(Although, they did try to fry an egg on the sidewalk yesterday.)

My stomach is already hurting and I am sick to think that this time next year I will be packing Ashlynn up to move away from home, go to college and leave me KIDLESS! UGH! OUCH! GROSS!

But for today, I am going to dance in the kitchen to MC Hammer, cook homemade pasta with Chris, change clothes so I can look like a cool Mom, and gossip about the parties last night, boyfriends, fashion, and going home to Texas...

In three days we will be stateside, going our own directions, eating Mexican food and seeing My Mother for the first time in a year. I understand more and more now how every single moment together is so special ~ so important...
photos by Charlene White
This life we live here, it's weird. But we have to make the best of it.

"Can't touch this" HAMMER TIME....

May Madness and a beauty queen

2009-05-18T16:19:00.009+03:00

"The Ball" was this weekend...

and Princess Ashlynn was beautiful...

Oh and Prince Josh, sweet and handsome as he could be as well.

How about this little glance up to her handsome Dad... Ahhhhhh...

Ashlynn designed her prom dress herself... Pretty...

I never thought there could be so much going on... People moving, Graduation, Prom, family portraits, parties, birds flying the nest for the first time, some of those birds coming back home...(Alexandra and Amanda in 2 weeks, Whoopie can't wait...) Winding down... or gearing up... who knows. Some days I do not know if I am coming or going. Most of the time both...

People accuse me of having ADULT ADD...

Whatever... it is very very true...

Only a few weeks left to "Do Doha", then half the country is flying to Houston... and beyond...

It's a weird life really. Only seeing my kids twice a year. That part stinks, but I don't feel that far away really. I think there is a part of a Mother's Love that God never makes you feel that separated even though we are continents away, our hearts are still side by side.

All you Moms experiencing your first bird to leave the nest.. This is a slightly comforting feeling but you don't get it right away.

It is a feeling you look forward to having.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Here is a precious little bird I hand fed for 2 days last week.

I spent hours trying to squish up dog food and cram it down his throat. After about 12 hours he figured it out... The next day I fed him 10 times in the morning and left for the day... By this time I had a relationship with the darn thing... When I got home.... NO BIRD....

DANG CAT....

But I am keeping an open mind to think this little fellow was advanced and learned to fly at an early age,

(like before his wings were completely formed..... DUH....)

We've been in mourning ever since...

I do not have a kid leaving this year, but I see it in the eyes of many of my friends... This string of invisible hope they are holding on to...Take advice from someone who has done it three times so far...

Let them fly, you will be proud of what they become...

Texas Ten Commandments

2009-05-02T15:47:00.002+03:00

As the end of the year approaches and the temperature approaches 110 already, Texas is looking pretty good. We are all starting to think ahead to Mexican food, road trips, family and bacon... yum... You don't know what you have got til it's gone, or impossible to have. It is funny what you take for granted when you live around it all your life. Like Pop Tarts...

June 15th - hurry up...

This is a cute Texas style Ten Commandments that made me smile this morning. Thought I'd share.
Cowboy's Ten Commandments

(1) Just one God.

(2) Honor yer Ma & Pa.

(3) No telling tales or gossipin'.

(4) Git yourself to Sunday meeting.

(5) Put nothin' before God.

(6) No foolin' around with another fellow's gal.

(7) No killin'.

(8) Watch yer mouth.

(9) Don't take what ain't yers.

(10) Don't be hankerin' for yer buddy's stuff Now that's kinda plain an' simple don'tcha think

Smiles,
Sher

Butterfly Angels in the Garden

2009-04-30T09:03:00.003+03:00

Good Morning Sunshine!!!

Everyday in Doha, we have sunshine... It is a good thing. As long as you have A/C as well.

Just thought I would share with you the little

"Angel Butterfly"

I found in my garden recently...

Have a great weekend.... TGIT !!!

Sher

2 Chicks Update.....

2009-04-21T08:58:00.002+03:00

New stuff...
www.2chicks2clicks2countries.blogspot.com

Softball Announcment...

2009-04-19T08:08:00.001+03:00

Chris and I made a double play last night!!!

And, I have no bruises!!!

SHERRY'S FAVORITE FIVE

2009-04-13T09:30:00.012+03:00

PLEASE ENJOY THE IMAGES AS IF YOU WERE SITTING IN THE JEEP WITH ME...

YES, I WAS THIS CLOSE!

Now I have to get back to work...

Coming soon....... Safari update.....

2009-04-11T17:26:00.002+03:00

A VICTIM OF SOFTBALL ABUSE

2009-03-29T08:23:00.007+03:00

SELF INFLICTED!!!

This is PATHETIC! That hurt.
I think I should stick to Photography!

IF YOU AINT FIRST YOU'RE LAST!!!

2009-03-28T21:07:00.008+03:00

UNDEFEATED CHAMPIONS OF THE ASD TOURNAMENT...

PATRIZI PHOTGRAPHY'S DARING HANDSOME HUNKA HUNKA BURNING LOVE AWESOME SOFTBALL TEAM... WAY TO GO!!!

**********************************************************

From left to right: "Spry" Steve Murray, The hottest guy on the team Chris Patrizi, Mr Humor Craig Lemons, ME, Mr. Beaumont over the green wall Clayton Burger, Ken left right left Moore, Short shorts Peter, Daryl Daniel, fabulous coach and recruiter Tom Sessions , "The Flash" Michael Huskey, Prettyboy Johnny Fite, Smiley Jeff Gates, Ricky Bobby fancy pants Billy Robertson, Homer Hamstring Ramirez, and Bruce "Fashion King" Hayes...

What a weekend.... All of you still have it in you... You played like a bunch of college boys.

There is no Ibuprofen left in the Pharmacies in Doha.

ALL OF THE 1000 IMAGES ARE FINALLY UPLOADED ON www.patriziphoto.smugmug.com/gallery/7727225_zEwGt#49948721_PThJj

GO SEE YOURSELF IN ACTION...

Thank you Chevron Phillips for your contribution to the team!!!

JUST BE ME!

2009-03-18T07:30:00.007+03:00

I've been staring at this picture again a lot lately... I have used it on my business cards over 12 years now. It started as Patrizi Photography in 1997 in Geneva Switzerland, then turned into Magnolia Photography in Texas, back to Patrizi Photography - Milano, then to Doha Qatar and now I am feeling like I should "Just be ME."

This picture was taken with a Pentax SF10 film camera in early 1985 in a living room window in Beaumont Texas. (My car now costs more than my house did back then...) I still have the Pentax...

This is the beginning of when I realized I could have a career in Photography. But at that time all I wanted to be was a Mother. This is my 24 year old son Nicholas. Who was the most precious baby on earth.

Then there were 4, so needless to say, a career wasn't on my list for many many years, and I am so thankful... I spent my days and nights pinching fat thighs and making kid food, koolaide for sale at the end of Summer Oaks Drive, and sitting on a lot of bleachers watching baseball, football, gymnastics, volleyball and dance recitals... I wouldn't trade those times for any job on earth!

Pinching fat thighs would be weird now, kid food has turned into foie gras and homemade pesto, koolaide no longer exists in my pantry, and the bleacher sitting is only for one more season...
Did I say that, ONE MORE SEASON then it is over!!! ME RAISING 4 KIDS IS OVER!!! In ONE MORE SEASON... DEEP BREATH.... WOW I didn't know that.

Now, I have just remembered that I might have blogged about this picture before, (CRS, Can't remember Shit!) so I went back and sure enough, there it is. November 4, 2008... Plain as day. Great blog entry, I wrote it and teared up again.

There is something so special pure and touching to me about this shot. I will never get sick of it. It represents LIFE to me.

Even though I have already blogged it, I am not going to erase this and start over... I am going to ramble on... and on... and on...

I shoot seniors and see the anticipation in the eyes of the kids and parents during this moment in their lives. Mom's hearts are breaking months before the actual separation and kids are scared and excited all at the same time. Saying goodbye to a child you have seen everyday for 18 years is hard to swallow. I relive it over and over again... But knowing you have done a good job makes it easier to accept, but not really. It is happening now all around me.

When families come to view their portraits, the music and slide show most often gives them lumps in their throats to see their precious families... Realize how special and perfect each one is... I cry and it is not even mine! If you have emotion about your work yourself, your clients will feel it too.

Now, I have just realized, it is almost time for me to be JUST ME...
I am slightly excited about this new person I will be, and equally not excited about losing all my kids to college and beyond...

My advice to young Moms, let the boxed mac and cheese wall paper the pantry, koolaide stain the pink dresses, buy a cushion for the ball park and for heaven's sake pinch fat thighs... Your career can wait, but the kiss on the skinned knee has to happen now.

One day soon, you will be just you! I will let you know how it is...

Sher

Photographer in training....

2009-03-16T11:06:00.007+03:00

This weekend I met a precious little man named Nicholas. He was rather smart, told me witches didn't exsit. He was as cute as 4-5 yr. old little boys get. I talked about dinosaur boogers and whiskey boogers, (usually the word boogers really makes boys this age smile). But instead he confessed to tasting whiskey! Nicholas has a gentle spirit and liked to jump. He told me his Grandma's Mother had died, I said "Oh, I'm sorry". He said, "Why did you say that, It's not your fault!"

The entire session when I was trying to entertain him, he was entertaining me!

At the end of the shoot I asked him if he wanted to take my picture and here is the video my child labor assistant filmed.

He didn't want me to be crazy!!!
ME CRAZY???? NO!!!

You are never too young, or old to start something.

Sherry Doing Doha....

Hollywood Beauties

2009-03-08T18:07:00.009+03:00

Do I need to say a thing? Well, Maybe WOW!!!
I love pretty people. Inside and out...

It is so nice to have models that are perfect.

It doesn't get any better than this....

You girls make my job easy...

SOFTBALL LINGO # 3

2009-03-08T15:26:00.007+03:00

"I'VE BEEN LACED!!!"

Not with cyanide, or a Stevie Nicks outfit... No "Laced" as in those orange stitches on the ball (that is not soft), smashing your jaw, from a grounder hit by a strong young man to second, (my position) and I thought I would be cool and catch it with my face, Laced!!!

Now they are permanently stamped on my cheek.

Some of this Lingo crap is for the birds. You have to learn the hard way...

But now it is proven I am a Bad Ass, or at least I was called one.

Is that a compliment?

(Can I say that?)

It is not so bad MOM, I promise. Although my sweet compound neighbors told me it looked like I have had a small stroke! Gee I can't wait til the next game!!!

DOHA SLOGAN...

2009-03-04T14:16:00.003+03:00

I have a new friend from A & M. Precious young darling and 2 cute kids I am going to get to photograph in a few weeks. She is a fellow blogger and neighbor. After reading her blog I had to copy a bit from one of her last entries, cuz it is funny stuff rit there no matter who you are. I can tell, we are going to bond.

They decided to try and give Doha a slogan, and asked for help from their readers.

If you do not live here, you will not get it. If you do, you will laugh out loud. Here it goes.

Feel free to comment. (Keep in mind these guys are Aggies....)

Doha: We almost get it right.
Doha: Sponsored by the Toyota Land Cruiser
Doha: It brings the stupid out in all of us
Doha: Get Qatarded
Doha: We like to tear shit up
Doha: Got Crane?
Doha: We have Dubai envy
Doha: We have more Ministry buildings than people
Doha: Because taking a right turn from the left lane is logical
Doha: Where the streets are different everyday....literally everyday
Doha: We discriminate
Doha: We're not Saudi
Doha: We make Lubbock look like the Rockies
Doha: Our flag kicks the other GCC flags asses

Now I don't know about you, but after living here 18 months, I fell pretty Qatarded!!!

What was I thinking????

Do you eat that?

2009-03-03T11:28:00.002+03:00

I think they meant Awfuls!!!

Angels among us...

2009-02-25T17:33:00.003+03:00

I lost a friend this week. Or should I say my friend found heaven.

You know there are some people that you only know for a short while, but they make a huge impression. I believe in angels. I believe they are here walking on earth to show us the way. They are also in heaven to look down on us as well. I believe in both.

I believe my precious South African friend Shelagh, that I met in Milan, was not only teaching a bible study class, she was being a living example to all of us. A messenger, I believe she had invisible wings. She loved God and I know she was smiling as she was lifted up Tuesday night...

Today I honor, remember and pray for Shelagh Corbella who now has real wings...

Couples and Friendships

2009-02-21T15:59:00.008+03:00

I know it is a little late, but today I would like to applaud couples and friendships. Thanks honey for being such a great guy!

We have got a handful or should I say heart full of great friends. It sure does make life better. Whether we have known you for 2 months or 20 years we truly appreciate our friendships.

*******************

Recently Chris and I have joined a softball team. The ball is not soft, so why do they call it that? Anyway, I have not played in 25 years and even back then I was terrible, but in my own mind I am desperate to be good. Chris on the other hand is a natural and I am secretly jealous of his talent. He plays short stop I play second, we make a pretty good duo out there. It has been a fun adventure. I just hope we can last 7 more weeks without having to go to the Al Ali hospital.

We have had only 3 games, so far I have been hit in the shin by a line drive, bruised my arm from holding the bat wrong and caught a ball with my upper thigh instead of my glove and Chris has busted his knee in every game and pulled his hamstring. By the end of the season we will be bruised and bandaged from head to toe. I knew it was a bad sign when there was a Pharmacy bag with athletic wrap in the dugout last night. But still, it is fun.

If you get beat up that means you played hard.

Whether it is playing hard/softball or sailing the ocean blue, I hope you couples out there share bits of excitement and fun together in your everyday world, minus the bruises.

Smiles,

Sher

SOFTBALL LINGO #1

2009-02-11T07:27:00.001+03:00

You do not make a point, You score a run...

The Name Game Part 2

2009-02-08T15:12:00.004+03:00

A few months ago I posted a few names and signs around Doha that were slightly inappropriate for normal English speaking people. Well here is a new version of that signage issue here. I don't really think I need to give any explanation of why you shouldn't name things like this...

But I want to know, Is the tea going to make you toot, or stop you from doing it?

And the Kleenex, Well, I'll let you know :)

Only in Doha,

Thanks Chandelier...

Smiles...

Sher

SOFTBALL RULE #1

2009-02-06T15:09:00.000+03:00

1. Do not try and stop the line drive with your shin.

Flattered by Photography

2009-02-03T08:57:00.004+03:00

As I have traveled around with my Pentax, Nikon and now Canon cameras, I have taken a bazillion images. I seem to be attracted to men. Cultural ones. Men in local dress, in their element, on the street, in the fields, working. Most are OK with the cameras, some are not. Here is a sequence of a street scene in Jordan taken from a cab. Notice the faces and expressions of the men and how one smile from me hanging out the car can change the moment.

Isn't it nice to smile? And even better to know you caused one.

Polka Dots and Curley Cues...

2009-02-02T08:07:00.006+03:00

What are little girls made of....

Polka Dots and Curley Cues...

Metroman

2009-02-01T10:33:00.018+03:00

I am married to Metroman. Like "macho"man but very different...better, cooler... Metrosexual in a good way. What does that mean anyway, Metrosexual? I am going to look it up.

Wikipedia says:

Metrosexual is a neologism of the 2000's generally applied to heterosexual men with a strong concern for their appearance, and or whose lifestyle display attributes stereotypically attributed to gay men. It goes on to say that Metrosexuals usually live near the city cause that is where all the good shops are.

Why does it have to have the word sex in there? It doesn't have anything to do with that.

OK now I know Chris is NOT gay, nor does he like to shop. But he will wear the gayest fuchsia pink floral shirts on the planet and wear them well. I absolutely love him in a gay shirt.

I lied when I said he doesn't like to shop. He loves to shop at Carrefore in the meat and fish department. You see my Metroman is a kitchen Metroman. His passion is not looking gay, but cooking gay. He wears an apron, any one will do, no frills or anything, but his last one was a skirt type kilt...

He opens up his cookbooks on a Saturday morning, checks out the pantry to see what we have in stock, goes outside and observes the herb garden, sizes up the guest list and sets off for the grocery store... His passion, is enjoyed by many... Especially ME!

Metroman has metro friends too. Metroman's best cooking buddy is MetroSteve. Together they whip up some fabulous concoctions that no camouflaged Nascar manly man could top. And they do it with incredible style! Presentation ~ Presentation...

Cute skirts huh?

Recently we had matching designer shirts made for Metroman and his Swiss metro friends MetroChuck and MetroHal in Tuscany.

Metroman has also rubbed off on MetroSON.

Notice the cooking gene and the dishtowel..
I love my Metromen...

Fashion and Fritos

2009-01-28T21:34:00.007+03:00

Fashion, something I have never been good at. I am too short to wear half the stuff that is in style, and if they don't sell it at Target I don't know about it. OK for real, I don't really pay attention to fashion all that much. I like cowboy boots, so I try and make them work with everything. I was excited when I saw they were in fashion in Italy. I hated to think I looked like a shot squatty Texan in Milan. But in Doha, well not so much. Flip Flops are the shoe for the sand, alas "SAND als!!!" DUH... But I hate to get sand in my toes. Gross. OK if you are at the beach, but not going to lunch in my Target outfit. Well they don't have a Target here, so I have resorted to well, not shopping. I will stock up this summer. Until then I am wearing boots until they sweat so bad I have to change to sandals. Buying shoes is my passion because my feet are the only thing on my body that doesn't have cellulite and hasn't gained weight. I still wear size 6-1/2 even though my pants have grown 3 sizes.

But I have discovered something in my wardrobe that is useless now, belts. I do not wear belts anymore. I have reached the stretchy pants, moo moo Walmart stage. OMG I am wearing my shirts all untucked. My muffin top has bulged out of it's last tight size Medium T-shirt. I have graduated to the big letter L. DAMN IT! I am constantly going through my closet now and chunking out everything stretchy and tight, which is most of my clothes... and I am not pregnant....

What does this tell me..... hummmm.. Well the cold water is hot and the hot water is hot, so maybe just maybe everything has shrunk in the washing machine here. But that is wishful thinking that things shrunk, instead of the real truth, I am a fat ass.

OK I am going to start pretending I am going to my 30 year reunion and they are going to put all of us five Beauties of Troy back on stage and see what we all look like now. Well I am positive Lisa Veale Gilbreath and Michelle Owens Bowman are thin and fit and still hot. Heck Lisa was a personal trainer and Michelle was a Derick Doll for the Houston Oilers, while I was having babies already... I can't remember the other 2. For heavens sake who would want to be the fatest old has been beauty queen on the stage. I have got to sike myself up to start a program and stick to it.. A schedule, a rhythm, a do it for me thing....

But the truth is... I hate it. I would rather Blog... work, have a picnic, visit with friends, shop, plant flowers, eat fritos and bean dip, anything but exercise. Either you have it in your blood or you don't in your life. I don't...

Fritos cost 27 QR at Mega Mart and Bean dip, 15.75QR together that is equal to $11.75 USD... It better be good....

Seniors Seniors Seniors!!!

2009-01-20T10:15:00.005+03:00

I gave away a Senior photoshoot at the Gala and over heard a cute little asian lady say, "why would a senior want a picture?" She was talking to her friend, which explained it wasn't an old person, it was a Senior from High School. I got a kick out of that.

Here are a few of my latest coolest kids on the block for 2009...

Oh to only be 18 again....

I'm wearing cowboy boots today and feel great!

Ciao Ya'll.

Pasadena to Doha???

2009-01-14T15:31:00.008+03:00

Who would have thought that this little girl from Pasadena Texas that used to dig for crawdeds in the ditches would end up living in the Middle East listening to Muslim prayer calls 5 times a day? I did not plan this! When I was a little girl all I dreamed about was having the nicest husband in the entire world, and a pretty wedding dress.

After that, it was all destiny. I do remember thinking about I would be 40 in the year 2000 and wondering where I would be and how many kids I would have and it all seemed eons away, I was probably ten then.

HELLO 2009!!!

I have been doing a little soul searching lately, realizing there is so much you can live without, and a few simple things that truly make me really happy...

I can live without more than half of my worldly possessions, familiar places, a home to call my own, almost all of my family, and most of my friends. It is not easy but I am doing it. It is a somewhat simpler life here, there are days I am relieved by not having so much to do and so many choices daily, and other days I just want a home again filled with my family, friends and things. Ashlynn thinks I'm BI-POLAR!!! Imagine that!

I adore Trapp candles lit during the day (but you can't buy them here), the touch of my husband, chocolate, giant trees, Ashlynn saying "Thanks Mom" in the morning for her breakfast even if is just cereal, an email from one of my kids or an old friend and freshly planted flowers. All of which are very simple pleasures. All of which are some of the really important things to me. Notice I didn't say fancy cars, money or diamonds.

I crave a great picnic. I love a homemade tuna fish sandwich with Jalapenos outside anywhere in the world that has sunshine and a view and a good friend or two. Not a 5 star hotel restaurant in some exotic location. A good picnic in Doha is hard to come by. The weather is cooler now so be looking for picnic shots in the near future.

I have been trying to find things I am thankful for and keep those grateful thoughts constantly in my head, it is not easy to do here in Doha, especially while missing my three children or driving. In a split instant I become a RAVING LUNATIC CUSSING PHYSCO MENOPAUSAL MOM WITH SUPER HUMAN POWERS DRIVING A 3 TON TANK!!!. BEWARE all white Land Cruisers on AL WAAB Drive! DO NOT JACK WITH ME! Oh my blood pressure is rising just typing these words. It is time for a vacation and I just returned from one.

OK, calm down, back to the simple things in life...
Therapy, Gratitude Therapy... Keeping my mind off all the bad stuff. Traffic being way up on the list.

The expat world is hard at times although it seems so extravagant from the other side. My friend just put her son on a plane back to the states and she knows she won't see him for 6 months. Too many of us can feel her pain. Although I wouldn't trade the experiences we have had to have stayed in Pasadena Texas for 30 years. The world is bigger now. I am the same Sherry Cogbill, but I am a brighter person for the knowledge that I have gained from living in different cultures. And I think I have shared my adventures with some people that genuinely were interested and learned right along with me.

I am not saying my friends who never left Pasadena Texas are any different, I still love them all the same. I just received my South Houston High School 1979 - 30 year reunion invite. THIRTY years! SHeesh... I still feel 18 on occasion, with the 48 yr old body and face. I can't go, it is in September. You know how all the women go sike themselves up on crash diets to try and look like they did 30 years before, maybe I should try that just for fun...

On days when you are dwelling on the past, or negative thoughts which we all get caught up with now and then and can't shake, when you are searching for good things to do or think about, I have a suggestion.

Sit down and write a list of 5 things every morning that you are thankful for in a pretty book. Keep this special book near you. Most days my gratitude journal is of the mundane yet simple pleasures like lit smelly candles, and a baby's smile. It awakens your soul to realize it is not all about the fame, fortune, new dress, popularity, social status, car you drive, Prada handbag, or house you have or even where you live.
It forces you to recognise and be happy with what you've got!

It reminds us to keep the simple good stuff close to our heart.
Therapy ~ Gratitude Therapy!

Lauper Wine Label Project

2009-01-08T08:26:00.013+03:00

One of my most wonderful memories of living in Switzerland is everything about a precious lady named Cecile' Lauper and handsome husband Andre'. They are Swiss farmers and about the nicest people on earth.

You see, I am a country girl and living near a farm, vineyards and fields of crops was right up my alley. Although I have never lived on a farm, I have always loved the farm life since I was a child as looked at from the outside peeking in. It is slightly sick but I like the smell of cow dunk. I was raised a city girl I guess, but my soul is screaming tractors, cows, pigs, hay, & manure! (I know what your thinking, yes, I am already full of shit. Whatever....)

Over the years we have helped them cut the grapes during the harvest in late September several times, but mainly just for the pictures. One year Chris helped Cecile' make Paella in the wine yards for the Portuguese harvesters and we have brought many many guests to her pig farm and vineyards. I love this place...

She used to deliver me fresh eggs to my house in Chancy...

I have even put a picture from her fields on a Benvenuto Magazine cover in Milan.

One morning along with Andre' dad, I witnessed a cow being born in the field, and they named her Sherry. I even bought her a real Swiss cow bell with her name on it, but later it was given back to me, I think they ate her.

The Laupers are amazing, they work harder than any one I know. They grow and produce about 8 different kinds of wine. They have recently planted new grapes and in the near future are going to produce a sparkling wine but they can not call it Champagne.

It is like a Fairytale world.

The Lauper Chateau, Chalet, Villa or whatever you want to call it, was built about 400 years ago. It is fabulous. I have photographed this house for over 10 years inside and out. Even did a sexy calander for Andre' for their anniversary but won't show those images...

Here is the evolution of the wine label as it stands today... Plenty room for changes and improvements, we have a year before it is available to drink. It just so happened to be snowing while I was there this year. Kinda nice touch for a celebration type wine.
The name of the grape is Clairette, But we need a name...

Any ideas?

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!

2009-01-07T08:02:00.009+03:00

Welcome back to Patrizi's Earth... We have had a terrific time in Europe this Holiday Season. The highlights were not the gifts we received, places we went, desserts we ate but the friendships and family time.

Ashlynn's 17th Birthday - Orvieto Italy. One of my favorite places on the planet.

Christmas Day after mass with families La Fratta, and Loevy's in Montefeggetsi... Needless to say we filled up the tiny Italian church.

Being together was the greatest feeling of all. Now I'm starting to understand my Mother more and more everyday. There is no greater feeling on Earth than your children all surrounding you. Not even baby cows and black Lindt Swiss chocolate balls are better.

Our first lunch together in Rome - Paninis YUM!

Although other than my four kids, the people we were with all season were not actually blood relatives, the incredible friendships we have together is bound by wonderful strong ties that over time has become more like family, and sometimes even better. The pictures of our Holiday sprinkled on this post is all about faces, real people, true friendship, and love of family.

Although we all truly missed our real families, especially those no longer with us but we made the best of our times together.

New Years Eve in the Chalet, La Clusaz France... Snowing outside.

It is time to get busy in 2009... My New Years Resolution is.... hummmmm. Well, I haven't made one. Of course it is to be a better person, read more, call my Mother more often, exercise daily, go to church even if it is at the crack on Friday morning, eat less chocolate (dang, did I say that?), work harder, continue to learn, gripe less, give more of myself to others, smile, suck in my stomach, don't be a physco Mom, be nice to the Arabic drivers, WHOA, HOLD ON, NOW WAIT A MINUTE, Maybe not the last one....

LIFE IS GOOD!

In general I am hoping 2009 will bring wonderful things to everyone I know.

OK gotta go, Going to the gym with a business card and a book, eating a granola bar and praying on the way holding my breath with my belly button sucked to my back, and smiling.... and I'm in a good mood....

Happy 2009....

Sher

Soon to be a family again...

2008-12-20T13:52:00.010+03:00

I would like to get all sentimental, discuss the true meaning of Christmas, how blessed we are and have a amazing moving blog entry mentioning all my loved ones... But I can't think... I am so excited, anxious and can not concentrate right now to even write one cleaver sentence. I leave tonight for Italy to meet my other kids. We will all be a complete family again in less than 24 hours. YEA!!!

My bags are packed, presents wrapped with pillow cases cut in half, tied with pretty lightweight ribbon and a cute dated ornament dangles from each one. I hope you all paid attention to that, it is one of the smartest ideas on the entire planet. They should write a article in Hints from Heloise about this. It is environmentally suave, GREEN... Reusable, takes 5 minutes to wrap 20 gifts, all good. Make them whimsical or fancy... Just wished I would have thought about it when the kids were young, instead Chris and I would lock ourselves in my room for undetermined amount of hours with sore backs, rolls and rolls of paper, (coordinating of course), untwisting that paper ribbon or those stupid K-mart bows. How wasteful. Try this and you will love me forever... Plus it is real cute under the tree. Looks like Santa just dropped in.

We have planned every last detail. All I need now is a seat on the plane and a nice sip of wine on Qatar Airways, which is by far the best airline in the world.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

We hope and pray that all of you reading this have a blessed holiday with those you love... Enjoy each moment, listen to the music, taste the peppermint bark, embrace the giggles, read the bible story, go to church, lite a candle in honor of someone that is no longer with us, give to the needy, eat an oyster, make that weird stuff called eggnog, what is eggnog anyway? Just have a wonderful few weeks.

As for me, I will be laughing with my 4 beautiful almost grown children and my heart will be full.

I wish for you a full heart too.

This is the Amir waving goodbye to me as I fly away...

We can't get there fast enough...

See ya next year -
CIAO!!!

Choices choices.....

2008-12-17T10:12:00.002+03:00

We went to lunch last week and had the hardest time deciding between the foot, or the camel...

NEW BLOG...

2008-12-15T07:29:00.003+03:00

Drum roll....... I have a new blog.... I am doing a fun photography project with a friend from Texas... Less words... Go check it out. www.2chicks2clicks2countries.blogspot.com

Sexy Santa Dance

2008-12-10T14:16:00.002+03:00

OK Gals,
Here is a very cute wish coming your way... Please click on the link below...
http://adoniscabaret.co.uk/saucy-santa-hen-night/index.htm

Smiles...
Sher