Jonny and Mary

Kitchen renovation

2008-06-06T08:03:00.002-04:00

After a lot of hard work, our kitchen looks a little brighter and more updated. The cabinets still need to be switched out eventually, but I can definitely live with this for a while. We will post more changes later.

Our first big get together is this weekend, so we are excited for my family to see what we have been busy doing.

Chat more later...need to finish mulching the flower bed
Mary

Poison Ivy

2008-04-22T16:39:00.003-04:00

This is an actual photo of our ivy.

So, today I realized another of life's joys in being a homeowner...poison ivy. The other day I found some small blisters on my forearm, and they were rather itchy. I just knew it had to be poison ivy. I searched high and low for the plant in our yard, but found none...until today. We have quite a large batch of it on the side of our house growing in with our ivy. Needless to say, I'm pretty stoked. I really hope to talk Jon into doing the poison ivy removal, since I am obviously very susceptible to it.

Later kids, Mary

Weeding the garden

2008-04-08T16:54:00.003-04:00

When we got our house inspected the guy told us to get rid of the ivy growing on/near the house. He said that it attracks termites and other creepy crawly things, and that's not a good thing. We thought it would be a cinch. It looks like pretty flimsy stuff. Well it is tough, back breaking work. We will have to do it in stages because it is such a pain in the butt.

Finally some pics of the house, for those who still read this.

2008-04-08T15:26:00.014-04:00

We have been in our new home for almost a month now, and there is so much to do. We have been busy doing all kinds of projects, but painting was our first big project. With that done, I felt excited to post some pics. Hope you enjoy them.

Mary

A Magee original haning in our hallway
our hallway

Back of the house

You can see the brick patio here...it needs some tlc
Our yard goes all the way back to the trees

out front

Some art we bought from local artist Mike Altman
Master bath toilet...don't ask me why I took a pic of this
Jon in the dining room
Jon and the little guy

Our bedroom. We are planning on building our own bed, that's why it's on the floor right now.
This is the $15 credenza we found at Goodwill, I think we will refinish it.
Master bath. There is a stand up shower and a toilet tucked away at the left.

My studio...still a mess

A desk I refinished

entry
guest bathroom
Jon's office...a work in progress

living room

entry

my photo collage...I think it turned out pretty cool

my first fireplace ever

kitchen...we plan to remodel when we get more cash. We are thinking of painting the cabinets white for now, and then just see how long we can live with it.

built in book shelves

Too busy doing work.

2008-02-13T23:14:00.004-05:00

Doing these kinds of photos in my studio at work takes a new fun approach at self portraits. I only do them when I am either setting up or taking down portrait type lighting setups. I guess it was not the case for this one. I really wanted the softbox shining from above me. For these kind of shots I set the aperature just right and engage the timer and focus on a rolling tripod and run around and push the tripod out of the way a pose myself just so. Most aren't nearly as sweat as this one is.

Our New House!!!

2008-02-05T19:33:00.001-05:00

Ok, so Jon and I just purchased our first home! After 5 1/2 years of marraige, we are finally settling into our very own home. We just purchased it on Sunday and we won't get the keys till March 6th, but we are so excited. We will post more photos in a month or so when we move in and paint. I guess I should give a few details. It is in Indy still on the North West side in Washington Township. The schools are great, and the street is quiet. Casper will surely enjoy the big back yard too, which is already fenced! All we have to do is clean and paint and move in. It is truly a blessing.

That's all for now...later peeps.

Relief...

2008-01-14T23:12:00.001-05:00

NAPA BALKAMP Christmas Party at Jillians Indianapolis, IN

2007-12-06T16:17:00.000-05:00

Hey guys, I finaly finished my painting for Emma. Thoughts, comments? Let me know what you think. Later, Mary

P.S. If any of you are in town tomorrow night Dec. 7th then you should stop by my studio at the Harrison Center at 16th and Deleware. There is a big opening, and they are showcasing many more artists than usual. Stop on by, it will be a good time.

The Negative Side of Positiveness

2007-11-21T11:13:00.000-05:00

I would have to say that there is some sort of Romance with the Black and White Negative. I use digital 100% of the time, so going back and dusting these photos off brings back a lot of history.

Negatives are something to behold. Though archaic, they still hold an amazing ability to capture and retain and image. Over-exposed and under-exposed images still hold a secret of what was there in the time of capture. The depth of the image information is something to fathom. Although digital has made leaps and bounds, I don't the negative will fully disappear. Like I said, there is a Romance. Watching your image on the paper come to life swimming in photo chemicals is lovely.

Photo project rejects a good share of the time turned out to be better than the ones for the projects themeselves. It is cool to see Mary all dolled up like an old movie starlet. I will most likely print that one for the house.

We, like most every one here in this great country, are getting ready for the most stressfull time of the year. Ahh, the Christmas Season. Amazing that the season of love and giving is also the season of the highest suicide rates and theft. God Bless America.

Grampy

2007-10-19T16:22:00.000-04:00

So, on October 2nd, it was discovered that my grandfather had died suddenly and unexpectedly in his sleep. I wanted to take this opportunity to express my appreciation for him. As some of you know, I grew up not really knowing my mom, for various reasons. I knew who she was, but never had a chance to meet her. I have a whole family out in Massachusettes that I recently just started a relationship with (including my mom). This is an awesome family....and a big family. Pictured below is just the Farrell cousins and Grandpa Pete and Grandma Patty. This is a man that really cared for his family. Before I even knew him, he journeyed out to my wedding (a 15 hour drive) just to meet me and congratulate me. This was our first meeting 5 years ago. Since then we have been making a yearly trek to Massachustetts to see our family. Grandpa Pete always opened his home and his heart to us and I felt that he had a deep love for me and my sisters. I am just very thankful to have known him, I just wish I had a little more time.

Grandpa Pete, you will be missed.

An Irish Blessing for you:

May the road rise with you, May the wind be always at your back, may the sun shine warm upon your face, And rains fall soft upon your fields, And until we meet again, May God hold you in the hollows of his hand.
In the kitchen Thanksgiving Day.

Grampy's house.

My cousins and me freezing our butts off for a family photo.

More updates

2007-10-13T13:00:00.000-04:00

Hey Guys! Jon and I have been busy lately. We moved into a small house on the weekend of the 25th of Aug. We have spent lots of time trying to fix it up just how we want it. We have refinished a few pieces of furiture (mary's desk, a side table next to the couch, and our tv stand). Refinishing is lots of hard work. Our next project that we want to tackle is our dresser that we have the record player on in the living room. We are going to do it like the tv stand...glossy black. We still need to get a few chairs for the kitchen and a couple of bar stools, but other than that we won't be doing much till we can plant in the spring.

We have not purchased the house yet, but are renting it from a friend. By early spring we are suposed to make a decision on whether to buy it or not. So far we really like the house.

I have a big show coming up on the first weekend in Dec., so I have to get moving on that. I'm not sure what I'm going to do yet.

I should be giving more updates soon.

Later, Mary

Update

2007-09-11T20:02:00.000-04:00

These pics are from a wedding we shot in Columbus last weekend. We were doing a bit of location scouting. Well, as for updates, we moved into a small house in Pike township in Indy. So far we really love it, and Casper especially loves our new back yard. He gets into a lot of messes out there and has discovered digging, rooting around, and even found two new doggy friends at the back of the fence. The pic at the top is of him hanging out on our deck. Sooo cute!

Also, I finally made a move that may help my painting career. I started renting a artist studio space at the Harrison Center downtown at 16th and Delaware. I just signed the lease last Monday, and on Friday we had our first open studio night, when the public is allowed in to visit. It went well, and I received a lot of positive feedback. Oh, I forgot to mention that Magee is one of the people I am sharing the space with. He hooked me up with the opportunity, and I couldn't think of a better person to share a space with.

I guess that's it for now. More updates to come. Mary

Me and I

2007-08-15T23:00:00.000-04:00

There are days when I feel like these two photos.

Never at the same time and never for very long.

Post

2007-07-30T22:18:00.000-04:00

Well, there are a few things to mention this time around so here it goes.

In order to keep my creative juices flowing I have decided to change the header on our blog as I see fit whenever I feel the knack to put a few ideas together. My hope is that I can keep my edge while I am doing the sometimes rather mundane designs that I do at NAPA Balkamp. Don't get me wrong, there are a few tid-bits that come my way where I can kick it up a knotch and get some nice things to print. The main point in this is that I have figured out how it worked.

Also as you have noticed there is a photo taken by Mary yesterday of her painting. She is trading with a local artist named Emma Overman . She is easily one of our favorites here in Indianapolis.

Lastly, I would like to mention that we are moving next month. No, we did not buy a house, but we decided to rent the house we almost bought a few months ago. We are kinda stoked about having colored walls and a garage.

jonny

Some Favorites

2007-07-07T00:16:00.000-04:00

As Jonny is editing like a madman lately, I decided to pic a few of my favorites. These are some of Mike and Mandy. They were a fun couple who are from California, but got hitched in Ohio.
Enjoy

First Rainy Day Wedding

2007-06-28T15:05:00.000-04:00

Jon and I shot a wedding in Lafayette, IN this weekend, and it was our first rainy day shoot. We have always wanted to do pics of a couple walking around in the rain, but had never gotten the chance. We ran down to Target to buy a big umbrella before the wedding. It was hard talking people into going out in the rain, but I'm glad we did. I feel like we got some pretty cute shots.

Thanks for reading. Later, Mary

2007-06-22T22:44:00.001-04:00

So if Jon's not going to post anything about this, then I will. He did a photo shoot for his old job. They are starting a trendy dance clothing line for girls called Sugar and Bruno. So far everything looks pretty sweet. It's clothes that cool kids might actually wear. Anyways, we were both going to do the shoot, then at the last minute I realized that I had a mandatory store meeting at the same time as the shoot. I was worried, because I'm a bit of a control freak on shoots, but Jon did an awesome job...at least I think so. All of the pics are online on their website : http://www.sugarandbruno.com/
Especially check out the catalog. He took all the pics for that.
Hopefully they will use us for the next shoot.

Later Peeps, Mary

Stuff 'n Things

2007-06-22T22:44:00.000-04:00

We have been pretty busy lately. As overwhelming as it seems, it does feel pretty good to not only be doing something but to also to know that when you are done doing that something you have something else to do.

We had a wedding in May. We had a wedding to shoot last weekend just near Sandusky, OH. We also have a wedding to shoot tomorrow. Plus, our church asked us to take some pictures at the VBS we were having this week.

While we were in OH, our friend Jamie Smith hooked us up with some free Ceder Point tickets for the day after the wedding. Thanks Jamie. We pretty much had a blast, and were too retarded not to get any pictures of us doing just that. If you get a chance to go on the new coaster called the "Maverick" please do so. It will rock your socks off. Totally serious. We also learned while we were there that it was "Gay Day" which turned out to be pretty interesting to say the least. Either way, we had fun in the sun. Sweaty though. Very sweaty.

More interesting to come in the near future. - Jonny

Oh, one other thing. Mary shot the entire wedding last weekend (the one with the old car) in some sweet skull patterned flip-flops. Very professional. No one said a word, but I doubt they did not notice.

Creative Brainchild

2007-05-25T21:30:00.000-04:00

I had an interesting brain booger to pick one day while I was taking Casper (our child) on a walk. You see, the creative mind is brilliant at giving you your best ideas where you are nowhere near a place to write, sketch or photograph them. This idea pictured above was thought of a few weeks prior to the actual photo. I explained the idea to Mary my better half and most critical critic of arts but she couldn't picture it. Actually, she can't picture anything I describe to her. I soon forgot about my brilliant idea until the dog show we were asked to photograph (pictured below) a couple of weeks ago.

When we were about to leave (with camera in hand) I took Casper out on one last tour before we headed out. At full speed, it was then when I remembered this crazy idea. So I turned my camera on and set it up accordingly and took off running again. Idealistically, this picture was easier said than done. But I managed at a good running pace with the leash in one hand and the camera in the other to fire off a handfull of shots. I am happy that my final product is dang near perfect to my spontaneous brain child of an idea.

I don't care what anybody else says, I think the picture is cool. Sadly it is not to many times when I go out and binge myself on creative juices. Jonny

Dog Show

2007-05-07T18:00:00.000-04:00

So, on Sunday Jonny and I did photos at a dog show held at our church. It was fun to shoot pics of some doggies and get to play with them. Casper (our dog) is the one in the bottom right corner. Although he did not enter any catagories, he did enjoy a funfilled day of sniffing pee and other dog butts, and barking to his little hearts content. Hope you enjoy the pics.

No Dice

2007-05-04T21:37:00.001-04:00

So Jon and I finally decided to pass on the house offer. We put in an offer, and it was countered. That gave us time to reconsider our choice. We have passed for now on buying that house. We might wait another year unless we find something that we really love in the next month or so. If you see any cool houses let us know.

Work in progress

2007-05-04T21:37:00.000-04:00

So, I wanted to update some of you on the latest piece I'm working on. I am trading paintings with a local artist in town named Emma Overman. I already got a piece from her that I like, and I am doing a custom piece for her based on a scene from the movie "The Pianist", which is her favorite. You can check out her work on http://www.emmaoverman.com/ . I chose a piece from her entitled "Seabirds". You can see it on her site under gallery 2. Her piece is already hanging in my living room, but I probably won't finish hers for another month or so. I'll post pics when I finish.

Offer

2007-04-24T12:00:00.000-04:00

Jonny and I put in an offer on the house that we want today. Thanks for all those who have prayed about this. We have prayed and felt a peace about putting in the offer, and now are hoping that all will go well.

New House

2007-04-18T08:52:00.001-04:00

Jon and I have the opportunity to possibly purchase our first home this summer, but do have some reservations. We would be purchasing it from a friend that I trust, and would be getting a really good deal on it (considering prices in Indy), but in the back of our minds we are kinda waiting for something bad to happen so we won't go through with it. If any of you have ever struggled with money or lost a job, then you might understand. Jon and I have been struggling for the past almost 5 years, with no end really in sight for us. Once Jon got hired on at NAPA our struggles (with money at least)started to diffuse. I guess that with our past we are just making sure that this is where God is leading us, so we don't make a huge mistake.

Please pray that the Lord will give us wisdom in this decision, and that we will be grateful for the answer no matter what it is.

Thanks for your prayers. Jonny and Mary

Colts Rally

2007-04-18T08:52:00.000-04:00

These are just a couple of pics from my phone from the Colts rally at the RCA Dome. It was pretty cool to see so many fans wait out in the cold and sit for almost two hours to see the Colts come home and welcome them back. It's kinda a little piece of history. That's my older sister Beth and my niece Samantha for those who don't know. We live in the same apartment complex in Indy, and hang out quite a bit.

Casper's First Bath

2007-04-06T20:27:00.000-04:00

Casper

2007-04-04T22:23:00.000-04:00

Jon and I finally got a dog! He is a 6 month old West Highland Terrier named Casper. We found him on Craigslist, and couldn't believe that someone was trying to re-home him. His old owners just didn't have time to spend with him, so they wanted to find him someone that could hang out with him a lot more. He seems to be very happy with us. He is a spunky little guy who likes to be right where you are all the time. He loves people, but we haven't seen if he likes other dogs yet. We are working on potty training right now, and he does very well. We are so excited to have a new little family member.
Lots of love, Mary

Wow it's been a while.

2007-03-30T15:31:00.000-04:00

Above are my two newest pieces.

Well, I guess I should give some updates for some of you who never talk to us or see us. Jon is in his third week at his new job. He is working at NAPA Balkamp, Inc. (NAPA auto parts) as a graphic designer. He enjoys the job. He designs catalogs, etc. and does some product photography. If you are wondering, yes it is Dave Kura's old job. Dave got him in the door after he quit, and it has been quite a blessing. Alot of our financial burdens (that some of you were aware of) are starting to lift. We can now budget for food and gas, which is a relief. In almost five years of marraige we have just been living on the grace of God to survive. If you are in a similar situation, don't loose hope. Help is just around the corner.
The first question everyone always asks me is if I am still painting, and the answer is...kinda. I usually only paint when I have a show. I have not done much with my art yet, but know that God must have something pretty good in store for me with so many disapointments in it. I feel like people always like my work, but not enough to buy it, which sucks, but I get to have sweet work to hang in my apartment. Right now I am working at Starbucks as a shift manager (I just got promoted woohoo). The job is ok, but not my dream...I'm still waiting to see what that is.
If we haven't talked in a while, shoot me an email. I would love to hear from you.
Blessings, Mary

New Pics

2006-12-17T23:00:00.001-05:00

So, my sister wanted some new pictures of my niece to send out in her Christmas cards this year, so we took some. These are a few of my favorites. She is getting some much more grown up, and frankly it scares me. She is in first grade this year.

Merry Christmas.. That's right I said it!

2006-12-17T23:00:00.000-05:00

We met this local concert promoter and Mary asked if we could come and take some pics. Sadly not many people showed up for In the Face of War here in Indy. We got a few good shots, and I think that the general concensus here at the Lessing household is that we really like shooting at shows. You may here more on this topic in time.

I would have to say that we are getting pretty terrible at checking this, partly due to Mary discovering "Myspace" of all place and partly due to sheer and utter laziness. Please forgive.

Our Myspace page is Myspace.com/jonnymary if you are at all interested.

Merry Christmas, and a Happy New Year. Jonny

Finally, a new Post!

2006-10-24T19:46:00.000-04:00

Well, not much has been going on lately here. Mary just had an art show opening at the Indiana Wesleyan University Art building. She was called for a visiting artist show. All in all it went well. Mary got up in front a big room of people and answered questions like a pro. I have to say, I was pretty proud of her for that.

Also we are trying to promote our photography and design business a little more now. Dubbed JM Studios, we now have a site here on Blogger that is now up for viewing. If you want, you can go to JMStudios.blogspot.com and check it out. There you will find a few things that we have done.

Jonny

2006-09-22T14:23:00.004-04:00

The Last Stop

2006-09-01T22:44:00.000-04:00

My grandpa is on his last leg. He found out he had cancer a few months back and is loosing so much weight week by week. He often hints about closing chapters in his life without really saying it. It is hard to take in. When my grandma died I was not in the country and did not really have a conversation with her before she passed. Now, I am trying to call him here and there to perk him up. I can tell it brings joy to his frail voice. Last weekend on our way up to my cousin's wedding we stopped in for a bit to give him a hug and chat. He gave me an old print of a painting that I always used to stare at when I was a kid. I am really touched and deeply pleased that he decided to give it to me. It smells like smoke and even has a vague discoloration to it that gives such a rush of memories. Even though my Grandma passed in '98 it still bears witness to her as well. I know my grandpa may not live till Christmas, but he will always live in my memories when I look at the painting. It is called "The Last Stop" by Alfred Owles. jonny

Avant Grande

2006-08-22T11:53:00.000-04:00

I have an art show this Friday, for anyone interested in coming. It is for Starbucks partners to show their art. It is at the Indianapolis Art Center in Broadripple. It starts at 7:00pm. There should be some cool art there. Be there or be square.

Our First 4 Years

2006-08-17T23:26:00.000-04:00

Here is a short video paying homage to our first for years of marriage together backed by a lovely song by the Ramones. Being busy editing wedding photos and having only one computer pushed the August 3rd deadline back until now. Enjoy.

-Jonny

Thanks to Kory for the tip on YouTube to get this thing up and playing.

Cindy and Zach's Wedding

2006-08-08T17:43:00.000-04:00

So, I was in my friend Cindy's wedding last weekend, and we got a few cool pictures. It was in Michigan, outdoors, and I would have loved to take all the pictures, because it was beautiful, but I didn't. Jonny did the video for the wedding, and I was in it. It was the first wedding I have ever been in besides my own. It was hot and sweaty outside in our long dresses, but ended up being pretty fun anyways. We got to ride a trolly too, which I have never done before, so that was cool too. Anyways, Enjoy...And Congrats to Zach and Cindy!!

Longest Survey Ever

2006-08-02T16:25:00.000-04:00

So my sister Patty finally posted something on her blog after months, so I thought I'd fill it out too. Seemed kinda fun. You might learn something you never knew about me.

Do the world a favor: fill it out and post it for all your friends.... Do this because the person who did this didn't sit here for ages for nothing. Answer all the questions honestly, no lying to avoid stuff.
Name: Mary
Single or Taken: Taken
Siblings: 2 sisters and two half brothers
Eye color: blue
Shoe size: 7.5
Height: 5'3.5"
What are you wearing right now? Black tank top and my black work pants that smell like steamed milk...yum
Where do you live: Indianapolis, IN
Righty or lefty: Righty
Can you make a dollar in change right now:maybe if I look around the house hard enough
Best place to go for a date: dinner out and a movie at home
FAVORITESKind of pants: cool ones that make my butt look small (if that's possible)
Number: 8
Animal: dogs and hampsters
Drink: it depends, at work I drink chai lattes
Sport: softball and soccer
Month: maybe october...I love Halloween and it's awesome weather
Juice: cranberry or orange
Favorite cartoon character: Spaceghost probably
Have You Ever...
Given anyone a bath: no I think that would freak me out unless it was Jon
Bungee Jumped?no, hights frighten me now that I'm getting older
Made yourself throw-up? no unless you count eating at a bad chinese buffet...barf city
Eaten a dog? maybe that's what made me throw up
Loved someone so much it made you cry? a few times if family counts too
Broken a bone: no, but I tore a ligament and some catilage...ouch
Played truth or dare: yes
Been in a physical fight: yeah with Patty over the remote when we were younger. I remember almost braking her arm...crap happens eh
Been on a plane: yes
Came close to dying: close enough. I got run off the road by an suv in college. they didn't even stop to check on me. I was Sunday morning, so that might have been a little early for drunk driving.
Been in a sauna: a couple times at hotels
Been in a hot tub: yes I love them and wish I had one
Swam in the ocean: never even seen the ocean except when I flew over it
Fallen asleep in school: almost every day in Mr. William's Old Testement class
Ran away: I can't remember
Broken someone's heart?maybe once, I didn't ask
Cried when someone died: of course
Cried in school?: not really until I got to college
Fell off your chair:probably, I'm an idiot sometimes.
Sat by the phone all night waiting for someone to call?A few times.
Saved AIM conversation: no
Saved e-mails: yes
Made out with JUST a friend? no, but I thought about it a couple of times
Been cheated on? not that I know of
What is...Your good luck charm? I don't really have one I'm not much for believing in luck
New fav. song: don't have one
What is beside you: a pile of crap on my desk...random stuff
Last thing you ate?: whole wheat fettucinni from noodles...yum
What kind of shampoo do you use? whatever's on sale
Chicken pox: everyone at my babysitter's house got it all at once, same with lice...gross
Sore Throat: yeah, I used to get bronchitis about 3 or 4 times a year. I still have my tonsils though
Stitches: yes, kinda. I had staples in my knee
Broken nose: no
Do You...
Long distant relationships: no, I never tried that
Like school: I love school...I'm a nerdy overachiever
Who was the last person that called you? Some guy from an art show that I don't want to be in
Who was the last person you slow danced with?Jonny boy
Who makes you smile the most? Jon and my crazy family
Who knows you the best?probably Jon
Do you like filling these out: yeah they're pretty cool I guess
Do you wear contact lenses or glasses: usually glasses, contacts for special occasions
Do you like yourself: I'm ok most of the time
Do you get along with your family: yeah, they're pretty cool
Obsessive Compulsive? yes
Suicidal? no
Final Questions:
What did you do yesterday: worked and then edited picture till 1 am
Hated someone in your family: no not really, it was more of a dipising, but that's over with
Gotten any awards?: yeah for sports, art and school
What car/truck do you wish to have: anything that runs, we need a second car
Where do you want to get married?: I already got married in my church I grew up in
Good driver? yeah until I get tired
Good Singer: I'm ok. It's more of a choir voice, not good for solos or anything
Have a lava lamp: yeah a couple
How many remote controls are in your house? 4
Are you double jointed? no, I'm not very flexible at all
What do you dream about? I have alot of weird sci fi dreams. They are very vivid. I also have really scary dreams that haunt me during the day too. That's why I can't watch scary movies anymore
When you last showered:?at 10:30 pm last nigh...it was a bath
Chocolate or Vanilla: chocolate definitely
Rootbeer or Dr.Pepper:neither they both give me the poops
Summer or winter: fall and spring, I don't like the cold or the heat
Silver or Gold: silver I guess...I'm not much for jewelry
Diamond or pearl: I wear a diamonds every day, so I guess I pick that
Sprite or 7up: neither, I trying to loose weight
Coffee or sweet tea: Coffee or a tasty hot tea
Phone or in person: I hate the phone, which most people know
Are you oldest, middle or youngest: middle
Today did you...
1. Talk to someone you liked: yes, a few people
2. Buy something: lunch
3. Get sick? no, but my stomach kinda hurt
8. Talked to an ex:no
9. Miss someone: today was crazy, I miss my sleep
Last person who....
10. Slept in your bed: Jonny of course
11. Saw/heard you cry: Jon
12. Made you cry: Jon kinda...I was having a bad attitude today
13. Went to the movies with? Jon, we watched ice age 2 at an outdoor film festival
15. Said "I Love You": Jon
16. Ever been in a fight with your pet? no, that's pretty weird
8. Been to Mexico?no
19. Been to Canada? no, but I know a few Canadians
20. Been to Europe? yes, I lived in Paris for a month... one of the best times in my life, and probably the worst time in Mr. Kwok's life
Random....
.21. Do you have a crush on someone right yeah, Jon
NoÃ…22. What book are you reading now? a Max Lucado book, but I think I'm about done
23. Best feeling in the world? finally finishing something that takes forever
24. Future KIDS names: Zechariah Paul, Elijah James, Noah Aaron, Abigail Elizabeth, Eve Elizabeth, Ruth Anne. I also like Mordecai, Ester, Luke, Silas, Isaac, Isaiah, Levi, and Naomi. I have thought about this way too much, but have decided to go with Bible names when I have kids
25. Do you sleep with a stuffed animal: not anymore
26. What's under your bed: nothing
27. Favorite sports to watch: I hate watching sports, but like the superbowl if the Colts are in
28. Favorite Locations: Paris, Sims, Cedar Pointe
29. Piercing/Tattoos: three tattoos, pierced lip and 6 gauge ears
30. What are you most scared of right now:someone being in my house...I'm paranoid
31. Who do you really hate? no one
32. Do you have a job: yes, but not a good one
33.Have you ever liked someone you didn't have a chance with: sure
36. Are you lonely right now? not really
38. Song that's stuck in your head right now? none
39. Have you ever played strip poker: no, but I did skinny dip once in junior high
40. Have you ever gotten beat up? no
42. Have you ever been on radio: both, I was on the news when I was in girl scouts as a kid and last year I was interviewed on PBS radio about my art
43. Have you ever been in a mosh-pit:yes, lots of times, but circle pits are more fun
44. Ever liked someone, but thought they never noticed you? yep
Random...
what color is your underwear right now?dingy white
Whats the first things you notice about the opposite sex (visual)? eyes and maybe hair
Your Favorite Food? pizza by far, sounds good for tonight
Ever get so drunk you dont remember?:never even tried a drop
Hair color? dirty blonde
Are you too shy to ask someone out? definitly
Hugs or Kisses? both
MSN? no
Butter, Plain or Salted popcorn? butter and salt
dogs or cats? dogs, yorkies and westies are my favorite
Favorite Flower? orage poppies, likein Monet's garden
Have you ever fired a gun? not that I can remember
Do you like to travel by plane as opposed to car? both, I depends on my mood
How many pillows do you sleep with? 2
Who are you missing right now? noone, just waiting on Jon to get home from work
Do you think (any of) your ex(s) miss you?they probably don't even remember me

2006-07-28T20:13:00.000-04:00

These are some more images from the wedding we shot a couple of weeks ago. I have been editing nonstop for this wedding, and I was pretty pleased with these images.
Later, Mary

Senior Pics

2006-07-18T14:41:00.000-04:00

Thanks to our new blazingly fast DSL connection, I can upload pictures much faster. These are just some senior pics that Jon and I took Saturday. It was a fun shoot. The kid was pretty rock and roll, and didn't want traditional photos. This was our first crack at shooting seniors. I felt pretty good about it. Hopefully we will get more soon. Any ideas on where we should advertise for weddings and seniors? Just wondering if you guys had any suggestions.
Later, Mary

Recent Wedding

2006-07-12T00:29:00.000-04:00

Hey, I just wanted to post some images from a wedding we shot a week and a half ago. I was excited about some of them, but am still arduously editing all of them. Hope you like them.
Good night, Mary

Caros coolo that I don't Havo

2006-07-10T22:58:00.000-04:00

I would like to take this opportunity just to let everyone know that I have a fascination with the Corvair Vans. These inparticular are from 1963. You got it, they are older than the hills. Also they are sorta rare being that they didn't even make 5,000 of these. Call them what you will, Shaggon' Waggons or Hoopty Vans they are still a piece of this great nation's eclectic history.

No joke, I cut out a little add for one of these vans from the weekly car trader magazine that was advertising that so and so car lot had one in kokomo IN for only $3,000. Little did we know that Mary's cell phone number was mysteriously misprinted in the ad untill someone called asking about the van that I had taped to the wall. That was crazy, being that I also wanted the van. It looked just like the white one with no side windows, but only the main color was the orange red color shown in the bottom picture.

I fear that if I ever get one of these rides, I may have a serious hard time repairing it if something goes wrong. But untill then I may have to stick to the 65 Cadillac (example above)that someone donated to IWU in Marion. As of like, last month, I think they wanted $8,000 for it. I am telling you...MINT CONDISH! I sat in it and instantly felt my coolness level go up, and my weekly gasoline gasoline budget. I am pretty sure with its 492 cubic inch engine, which is almost 4x the size of our little four banger that is nestled inside our Kia, will surely be getting the "Earth Biscuits" out on the East coast something to talk about. No Kia will ever reach the the level of romantiscism that the Cadillac has had ever since the beginning. -jon

2006-06-27T18:15:00.000-04:00

Today I was reading Baxter's online journal and came accross a very romantic sound clip. Any of you who are married or dream of being married should listen to it. It made me cry today thinking of all the little things Jon does to make me happy. People always wonder why I got married so young, but I never do. I fell in love and that was it for me, I couldn't imagine my life without Jon. Marraige is the best thing God ever invented. Check out this link: http://www.npr.org/dmg/dmg.php?prgCode=ME&showDate=24-Feb-2006&segNum=18&mediaPref=WM&getUnderwriting=1 Love you guys, Mary

I Love This Girl

2006-06-16T23:36:00.000-04:00

We had a lot of fun taking pictures at the church this week for VBS. Of course this picture did not make it on the official VBS archives as well as many others of Mary and I making total fools of ourselves. I guess Mary was doing her best impression of Karate Kid. - Jonny

VBS is No Vacation

2006-06-13T22:10:00.000-04:00

Well, here it is. The Final. That is all I got to say about that.

In other happenings, Mary and I volunteered to photograph the VBS that was going down this week at our church. As of yet, it is quite fun and we have two more days left. After the second day I realized that the rest of the week is going to be the same shots over and over again but this kids like seeing themselves on the big screen the next day and I am pretty sure people will catch on if we kept passing off the slide show from the first night. I would post a few pictures here but our fellow congregational members might have something to say about that. So, you will not get to see any of them.

Hope to see some of you Saturday at Kory's Bachelor pad - Jonny

Burning the Candle at all Four Ends

2006-06-04T00:45:00.000-04:00

Mary basically started drawing this painting out last week. Only to not work on it practically all last weekend do to heavy backpain and a visiting sister. So that left actually three days to finish by the thursday due date. If you can see by Mary's elbow, that whole the bottom right hand corner is not yet finished. I took this picture shortly before I went to bed around 3:30 AM SATURDAY MORNING.

Nobody can burn the midnight oil like Mary can. I think I can pretty much swear by that. She painted almost a total of 40 hours since Wednesday bouncing around her Starbucks schedule only to work on it all through the night on Friday and finally finishing it up at 7 am on Saturday. Which means the wet paint signs that she had taped on the frame at the show starting at 10 am weren't just for looks. So she is pretty much exhausted as of now. Mary is my hero.
Or hero-es? Either way I am totally proud of her for kicking this monster out in basically a weeks time. This painting is so dang sweet, and no not because it is of me. - jonny

The Cards

2006-05-18T19:56:00.000-04:00

In college they never really talked very much about screen printing from a graphic designers perspective. Granted, design and color theory all the same, but there is a whole different set of rules as from regular print. From the computer screen to the final product, a design goes through many processes that could change the the overall look of a finished piece. So one must predict how things are going to look in the end given the type of screen used and how much it is exposed, or the specific colors used (because some are thinner than others), or the color or type of fabric used because that will determine whether or not you will need to design an underlay of white to compensate that the fabric might show through. It is alot to know.

We also deal with many customers who have no idea what they are talking about. Example:"I sent you guys a high rez vector image". I kid you not, that was from today.

PDA is a really good place to work and anyplace that lets me wear flip-flops and shorts is pretty cool in my book.

Jonny

If it is not one thing, it is another!

2006-05-01T15:58:00.000-04:00

Sad faces and broken hearts is what I received after telling the clients at the group home where I work at that I was leaving for a new job. It is a rewarding job knowing that you are caring for people who can't always or know how to care for themselves. I will miss them. Soon I am going to get a group photo of all of them, and when I do I will post it up so you all can see who I have been working with since November.

On a different note, I started my new job Monday working from 8 am to noon. As I was trying to leave, my car did not start. How embarising! My first day and I already had to leave my half-beater car in the parking lot. There was something wrong with the starter. I had to catch a ride with a guy fom work to go get our other car which was with Mary at Starbucks. Thankfully it is rather close and he was going to his bank at the same intersection. So with a new job comes a car that does not run and a $950 bill. I got the car for free, so we are going to wait a day and see if it is worth it or not.

Jumping For Joy

2006-04-30T14:51:00.000-04:00

Well, since Jonny hasn't posted anything yet, I will. Jon, after a long time of looking and interviewing, finally landed a graphic design job in Indy. We are really excited for the opportunity he has been given. He will be working at Progressive Design Apparel, INC. You can check out the link here: www.pdacoolstuff.com It's cool how God works in mysterious ways. A cool guy that works there, Nathan Shinkle, wanted Jon to land the job back in February, but after two interviews there, they decided to hire someone else. Later the next week Nathan called us to see if we could do their wedding photography for him and his wife Sandy. We did, and they loved it. We loved doing the wedding, it was a blast. So last week Nathan called Jon out of the blue to see if he was still interested in the job at PDA, and of course he was! So, to make a long story short, Jon starts Monday training from 8-12. I think it will be a great fit for Jon. We are pumped. Thanks to all of you who prayed for us. We think this is the answer we've been waiting for. You guys are awesome. Later peeps, Mary Lessing

Wedding Examples

2006-04-19T00:21:00.000-04:00

Hey, for all you crazy kids out there who wanted to see some of our wedding pics, here you go. Check out this link: http://www.fotoflix.com/fastflix_popup?fastflix=79c69047dd4d4795c8a1323887143eb0 Maybe if we get good enough, you will let us assist for you Mel. Let us know if you need some help. Will work for cheap.

Later, Mary

Updates

2006-04-05T23:11:00.000-04:00

Hey, I thought some of you might want updates on what's happening with us. Well, we shot our first wedding for someone we didn't really know (not a friend or family member). It was awesome! The coolest thing was how excited they were about their pics. They said that they would refer us to all their friends and co-workers, so we're stoked about that. Also, they already invited us to a BBQ this summer. They are a pretty cool couple that I could see Jonny and I hanging out with more often. Now we have 3 weddings booked for sure and 3 more possible. God is providing work and we are excited. Also, Jon is designing our church logo. We are meeting with T'ai (Mel's buddy who is a make-up artist). She is a pretty cool chick. She might have Jon design up her business card. We are having her over on Saturday night for a mexi-dinner. We have a meeting with a couple on Sunday for wedding photography, so please pray that all will go well with that. Also, I am finally trying out the wonderful world of e-bay. I have a painting up for sale right now at : http://cgi.ebay.com/Rock-and-Roll-Oil-Paintings-by-Mary-Lessing-all-2x4_W0QQitemZ7405206345QQcategoryZ20135QQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem Check it out if you want. I guess that's all for now. Later peeps, Mary

Truth in Advertising

2006-04-04T12:18:00.000-04:00

Wouldn't it be funny if they could guarantee something like this?

2006-03-15T23:23:00.000-05:00

Alright, Jaimie was nagging me to post a picture that we took last week. So there you go Jaimie. Jon, Jaimie, and I goofed of one night last week taking pictures to test out our new camera. We had a blast, and got some classic pictures. Well, that's all I have to say about that. Mary

The Name Game

2006-03-15T18:01:00.000-05:00

My uncle Mike and aunt Marnie recently found out that they are having another baby. Thus far they have two girls and a boy. Their names are Mollie, Maddie, and Matthew. As you can see, they like "M" names. Any suggestions for the name of the new baby? Not sure of the sex yet. I will pass your suggestions on. Please post name on comments. Thanks Guys, Mary

Your Honor, is this the face of a Killer?

2006-03-15T14:47:00.000-05:00

This weekend, we went up to Fort Wayne to go to a funeral. One of my best friend's dad had passed away while being on the mission field over in Africa. It was an upbeat ceremony, being that he is now in a better place. There were smiles, laughs and a few tears but the picture of Mary was from the fish fry from the previous night at my Aunt and Uncle's church. Mary was trying doing her best impression of what was layered on her plate. -jonny

Starbucks Experience

2006-03-10T18:24:00.000-05:00

Well, as you all know, Jon and I change jobs every few months. After a stint at the flower shop during the holidays, I finally decided to quit. The job was cool, but the boss was an anal wierdo. That is all I will say about that. Yes, it is the flower shop Jon used to work at. He quit to work at Rescare, so I took his job so they wouldn't be short-handed for the holidays. Last Friday was my last day. This weekend I got my first Saturday off in months. It was nice to hang out with Jon more, since it's really his only day off. This week, thank God, I started a job at Starbucks. I work at the one at 86th and Zionsville Rd. It's pretty cool so far. There's alot to learn. I only know how to make cold drinks so far, but training is going well. The strong coffee smell is giving me headaches though, I'll have to get used to that. I would like to say thanks to Jessica Kura for letting me know about the opening. It's good to have friends. Also, Jess, you should check into a referral bonus because I put you down as a reference. Well that's about it from me now. I'm vegging out this weekend. We are going to see Jon's fam in the Fort (Wayne that is). Post pics later hopefully. Love you guys, Mary

Lizard Man

2006-03-09T17:59:00.000-05:00

You know how Mel always see all the wierdos on the coast? Well, Jon and I were out on a little shopping extravaganza last Saturday. We went to two camera stores, Wal-mart, and Lowe's. On our last stop at Lowe's we were patiently waiting in line to pay for our "camera case" when we spotted lizard man. The guy was pretty cool to let us photograph him and his iguana, but I have to admit it was kinda weird to see it in the store. Jon chatted with him a little, and I guess it's pretty hard work to train iguanas to be calm like this one was. The thing didn't even budge when Jon was getting up close and personal. I guess there are still some extreme pet lovers in the midwest too.
Later Peeps, Mary

A tuff lesson

2006-02-25T01:12:00.000-05:00

Sometimes one does not know what to do at one in the morning, but this time I did. Some of you out there might remember when Mary was called "Scary Mary" or "Punk Rock Mary". This is a salute to the old times. They say that Punk rockers either die or fade away. I think Mary is fading away because she ripped a whole Martina Mcbride cd to the computer. She said she liked one song, "for the girls". But I know that being married has taught me one thing and that is to compromise, whatever the wife wants you learn to enjoy saying yes. - Jonny

Massachusettes Fun

2006-02-20T00:48:00.000-05:00

Well, here are some pictures from our Thanksgiving trip out to Massachusettes. I've been meaning to post them, but we just recently got the internet in our house again. It's so nice not having to run to the library every time you want to check e-mail or something. Anyways, the first picture is of my sisters, uncle mike and his daughters (Molly and Maddie), my niece Samantha, and my brother John. We had just left the Boston Duck tour. You can kinda see the amphibias vehicles on the right. It is a blast and I highly recommend it to anyone going to Boston. The second picture is of my grandparents and almost all of their grandkids. This should give you an idea of just how big my family is. It is a packed house every year. Just so you know, we don't always wear matching outfits, there was a pro photographer there to get a picture of all of the kids since most of us were there this year. It was freezing cold out. The last picture is of us and Molly and Maddie in the Boston subway. We had an awesome Boston adventure thanks to our tour guide, Uncle Mike. It would be cool to finally see the east coast when it's warm out though. Having a camera on the trip definitly saved us more than $2.50 on postcards (haha Beth and Patty). Much Love, Mary

Valentines Day Crazy!

2006-02-14T22:28:00.000-05:00

Today was nuts! I started my day this morning at 4:30 AM by attempting to get up. I got to work at 5:30 AM. You know that you are up too early when McDonald's isn't even open. We did so many Valentines deliveries that it is unreal. I ended up getting off work at 10:oo pm. I know we are still in for a treat tomorrow too because we had 30 deliveries left over from today. Holidays are so insane in the chocolate and flower markets, both of which I work. I need a nap. This is a picture of my van at 7:30AM to give you and idea. Sorry it's so small. Later, Mary

2006-02-12T17:09:00.000-05:00

Well, we have been pretty lazy about updating our blog lately. We have been really busy doing....well I lied. We weren't really that busy.

We do have a camera finally though. Mel sold us her D70 after getting some new equipment of her own. One man's trash is another man's treasure. These are a couple of pictures taken to test out our speedlight. Plus we really felt like acting stupid...as usual.

We haven't gotten any real 9-5 jobs yet, but we have booked a wedding for July 1st and possibly a wedding for next month. So the camera is already almost paying for itself. Anyways, that's all I got for now. later peeps

Our old buddies

2006-01-25T14:14:00.000-05:00

When we were out tooling around Indy, we came across our old buddies from school, Matt and Jen Moore. Maybe some of you guys out there might remember them. It was such a suprise to see them walking around the town. Matt is in a metalcore band in Marion and also started a venue over by the public library. Matt looks cool, and so we both complimented each other on our beards. He said he is in a beard growing contest with some other folks from the net. Mary thinks he looks Irish, which is saying something since they just left the Claddah.
Mary ran into Jeremiah Wilson today at the Fashion mall where she works. For all you people wanting to see his website here it is. bye. - jonny

Out on a date

2006-01-25T14:06:00.000-05:00

Mary and I went out on a date on Saturday to a little Diner in Fountain Square called " Peppy's". It was rather cool. Sort of the old fashioned hamburger dive flare from the 50's and 60's. Very tasty food I might add. Then after we ate we played around with our new camera that we bought from Mel Barlow. This picture of Mary was taken with my phone. Anyways, we had a blast. Jonny

Sorry...

2006-01-21T13:29:00.000-05:00

We have been very busy lately and since the phone line was removed from our apartment by Mary's sister, we have been reluctant to keep this up. So, do to out availability, we will start trying a little harder soon. We are very excited about this year, hopefully alot will come from it.

Jonny

Updates

2005-12-28T13:51:00.000-05:00

Sorry, it's taking us so long to update our blog. We don't have internet at our house for the moment. We have had some exciting things happen today. We met with a couple in Fishers, IN about doing their wedding photos today. We all signed the contract today for the wedding that is taking place on July 1st. We are excited to do our first professional wedding shoot. Thanks for all your advise Mel! We will get the first half of the money in a couple of weeks. It's good to finally take a step in the right direction. We're pumped.
Also, we are finally getting rid of our Subaru. It has been a long journey with that car, and finally it pooped out on us. Jon's uncle got us a new car and it is running great now. For the first few weeks we were a little nervous about it. The heat is working now, and we have a new battery in it. Praise the Lord!
I'll work on posting some pictures soon. We just can't do it from our house right now, so it's a bit of a hassle.

Love you guys, Mary

Words from a Minor Prophet.

2005-12-14T10:53:00.000-05:00

Though the fig tree does not bud
and there are no grapes on the vines,
though the olive crop fails
and the fields produce no food,
though there are no sheep in the pen
and no cattle in the stalls,
yet I will rejoice in the Lord,
I will be joyful in God my Savior.

Habakkuk 3:17-18

-Jonnny

Thanksgiving Fun

2005-12-05T15:45:00.000-05:00

Well, it's been about a week since Thanksgiving, and I still haven't posted anything about it. I guess I'm just getting lazy. We spent the week travling to Massachusettes. It is supposed to be an 18 hour drive, but it ended up being more like 24 hours. It was pretty tedious. Jon, my sister Beth, my niece Samantha, and I set out on Tuesday the 22nd for D.C. We went out there to pick up my younger sister Patty. Weather was o.k. We had some snow in Penn. , but that's about it. We avoided a 24 car pile up in Penn., but had to sit in the traffic for an hour. I felt blessed to have such a safe trip. In D.C. we visited the Holocaust Museum. It was alot to take in, and I will have to visit again because we kinda had to rush through a little. After my little sister got off work, we headed up to Mass. We arrived there at about 4:30 am on Thanksgiving. We got some shut-eye before the big feast. It was a blast seeing the family again. Friday, we took time out to go visit my mom. Then we went to visit my uncle Joe in the hospital. It was a bummer to see him laying in bed hurt, because he is such a jolly guy. It wouldn't have been right to go all the way out there and not see him though. Saturday, I got to see my first glimpse of Boston. My uncle Mike took us all out to Boston and showed us a great time. We went on a duck tour (pictures included) and went out to eat. My uncle was very generous to help us make the trip again, and blessed us with a day out as well. He is a really awesome guy. His wife Marnie is a heck of a lady too. We stayed over at their house on Friday, and we got to visit with her a little and enjoy her awesome cooking. Overall, the trip was a tiring blast. I can't wait to go out again. I'm only posting a couple of pictures for now.
Later, Mary

Like father like son

2005-11-20T23:28:00.000-05:00

Ahh, the sacred beard. I don't know why I did not ever grow one in college. I have had it a month of so now, which is nothing really, compared to my Dad who has had one since 'Nam. Or it is a long time for those who can't grow one (i.e: Matt Barlow). Matt may have the killer tattoos, but I have the killer beard.

I guess I am still getting used to it. It is a different feeling going to sleep or washing my face. It just feels wierd, as do the zits that are sneaking up behind my furry mask. They are big and painfull. I think it is because of the hair verses the irritated pour factor. Either way, these painfull red sub-skinned puss bombs remind me of my akward teenage years living in Costa Rica. Speaking of Costa Rica, the word for zit in Spanish is "Espinilla" which is also used as "shin" (as the part of your leg). - jonny

A Huge Praise!

2005-11-17T16:48:00.000-05:00

Jon and I have been calling around to see if we might be able to borrow a car from someone. A few friends offered to help, but nothing seemed to work. Finally, out of desperation, Jon called his Uncle Scott, just to see if they had an extra car we could use. They didn't, but said they would check around. We didn't think too much of it, considering our luck lately, but they actually did check around. They found a Nissan Altima that has kinda been going around the family to whoever needed it. The people that were using it, are buying a new car, so his uncle's family said that they could just give it to us. What a huge blessing. We were so stoked about it. God really answers out prayers in a big way, even when we doubt sometimes. We'll post a picture of it when we bring it home. Praise God!
Mary

My Show

2005-11-16T14:04:00.000-05:00

Hey kids,

I just wanted to post a picture of my finished painting for those of you that were unable to see it in person. I really appreciate all of our friends and family that came (and could not come) that really push Jonny and I to continue to do good art. One day we will have all of you to thank for the encouragement.

Anyways, we had a fun night. The show went well, and I got many positive comments about my piece. We saw a few friends from college as well, and even a couple of professors. It was good to visit with some people that we never get to see. Also, a group of us went out to Bazbeaux afterwards for a smashing good time. I am still thinking about that delicious pizza...yum!

My piece has not sold yet, but it is still only the first week. Pray for a sale if you think about it. Jonny and I could really use the money, especially now that his car pooped out on us.

Thanks kids,
Mary

Update

2005-11-11T15:44:00.000-05:00

For all of you that check our blog, and wonder how we are doing, and if we are still jobless deadbeats, I have an answer. Jon just started a job at Rescare. My older sister actually has a really good job there, and probably had quite a bit to do with getting his foot in the door there. So far Jon is doing great on all his training, which is a week and two days long. For those of you who don't know, Rescare is a place that provides services to the developmentally disabled. Jon got to meet the clients he will be working with yesterday, and seemed pretty happy with them. It is a new kind of job for him, but he has such a calm temperment and kind heart that I think he will do great. This is not the end of his search though, I don't think. We are still trying to find him a graphics job. This job will be good for now though, because it will be steady, and hopefully rewarding for Jon.
The news on me is much of the same. I am still painting. My art show opens tonight, so pray for good things. I am really hoping to sell my piece, but never know if the price is right. We'll see. Yesterday I had an interview at Celebrity Kids in Greenwood, which I really want to work at. I think it would be a blast for me. I think that the interview went pretty well. I was there for about and hour and a half, getting to know the store and the staff a little. I felt like I would fit in well there. Please pray for me. I really need a job quick! My other two jobs just ended with a seasonal lay off, so I am hoping that the studio liked me as much as I liked them. I'll find out probably next week if I get the job. I'm pretty eager for the response, so I'll probably call Monday.

Love you guys, later, Mary

2005-11-11T15:32:00.000-05:00

I Spent most of the day yesterday scanning in old pictures of my dad's side of the family, and it was a blast. I get really excited to see how things used to be. I am really inspired by my family, especially the strength of my grandma Nell. It is a tradition in my family to have the whole family over at my gramdma's house every Sunday for dinner. It's very special to all of us, and keeps us together. It is cool to see old pictures at my grandma's from when I was a baby. They were still getting together every Sunday even then. Anyways, this is a picture of my dad and my grandma in some location unknown to me, but I love this picuture. My dad was a mommas boy, but I love him. I'll probably post more pictures as I feel like it.
Later, Mary

Forgotten Details

2005-10-22T19:43:00.000-05:00

Jonny forgot to mention one important thing about the show... the time. The opening is from 5:00pm to 9:00pm. I was hoping that if we got a little group together, we could all go out and get a bite to eat after the show...maybe some Bazbeaux...yum! Post a reply to this if you are wanting to go hang out after, last time I had a blast.

Enough of that I guess. Jon and I are having a blast today. Jon's mom and dad are visiting, and that's always fun. Jon's mom and I got to go downtown and see Joyce Meyer's speak. Hillsong opened up for her. It was pretty sweet. She really gives you alot to chew on, and calls you out on issues that Christians should be dealing with, but are too lazy/scared to do. Also Jon and his dad changed the radiator out on Jon's car. This is a huge blessing to us! It has been leaking for over a year now with no heat or ac. Now Jon can finally drive it to work without having to put a few gallons of water in every day. What a big praise!

That's it for now I guess. We will try to be better at keeping up on our blog.
Later dudes

Ahh...the Details

2005-10-18T23:48:00.000-05:00

The Holiday One-Piece Show at the Dean Johnson Gallery which features Mary, Professor Curfman and Professor Hall will open Friday November 11th and goes through January 5th. We hope to see you at the opening.

Jonny

Close Call

2005-10-18T12:53:00.000-05:00

Last Friday Mary recieved an email concerning the size requirements for the Dean Johnson Holiday One Piece show. The lady said that the pieces can't be bigger than 16x20" and Mary usually paints big, her piece is 2ft x 4ft.

This of course was a huge shocker and a let down to us since the show is a few weeks away, because Mary has known about this show for almost a year now. You think they would have let people know way in advance so they could do up a piece accordingly. But Mary sent out an email concerning the size of her painting and the gallery cuordinator at Dean Johnson said that it would be ok, that they will work around it and that there are a few other artists that did not meet the size stipulations as well.

Professor Curfman and Professor Hall are also in the show so it will be fun. We will be posting pics of the show here on our blog so stay tuned.

jonny

My A-list

2005-10-16T17:36:00.000-05:00

Some of you out there have been posting A and B lists of people they have met or saw. Can anyone guess who this is? That's right, it is the late Dimebag Darrel of the famous metal band "Pantera" and the late "Damage Plan". I can't say that I know or like "Damage Plan" but Pantera has some tunes that make me smile. Of course I am only speaking musicaly and not lyricaly here.

This picture was taken back in October of 2000 up in Chicago at the ESPN ZONE. No one knew who these guys were, but me. So as famous guitarists go, I met one of the coolest. RIP

jonny

Help Wanted

2005-10-05T18:11:00.000-05:00

Hey Everyone,

Jon and I need your help. Jon has been actively seeking a graphic design position for some time now, but to no avail. If any of you know of a position opening up or anything like that, could you e-mail us of post a message on our blog, whatever is easiest. We don't care if you live in a neighboring state either...we are willing to move. Please also pray for opportunities for us too.

Thanks, you guys are awesome, Mary

Lady Picture Show

2005-09-23T19:20:00.000-05:00

Here are a few of Mary's best looks of the month. Well, as you can see, you can't win them all. Either way, she is still my best bud.
-jonny

Famous Friends (Kory Pence's Idea)

2005-09-22T17:04:00.000-05:00

Well, Kory has a very funny thing going on his blog that I thought would be fun to get in on. The thing is, that I couldn't find his e-mail address to send him the pictures and I don't think my post got posted. I know that this makes me sound very stupid, but hey I'm new with this blogging crap. The idea is that he posts a picture of you and the celebrity you resemble. That's it. What do you think? Oh yeah, you guys have to check out Kory's blog to see the creepy resemblance Magee has to a certain child celebrity. That one was my favorite. Later Kids, Mary

Oregon Trail

2005-09-21T22:19:00.000-05:00

My brother is now happily married. We all flew out to Oregon for his wedding because that is where Johanna wanted it. It was a lot of fun... good times, good food and good laughs.

Mary and I shared a hotel room with my parents. It went ok, except for my dad's snoring, which kept Mary and I up a bit. The wedding was small and intimate, which was really cool. The weather was perfect which was an answer to prayer because it was an outdoor wedding.

While we were out there we all went to a place called the Oregon Gardens which had tons of flowers and trees. It was a pretty sight. On the grounds near the entrance was the Frank Lloyd Wright "Gordon" house that was moved their because someone wanted to tear it down. A darn shame that someone would want to destroy such a work of art. - jonny

Weekend Riders

2005-09-12T00:16:00.000-05:00

We road our bikes tonight with our friend Courtney and Mary's sister Beth. We mostly just ride around our complex. It sounds lame, but it is totally fun and reminds me of my worry-free youth. You know, ride all day, mom gets worried, and come back at dusk. I didn't watch alot of tv or play tons of video games. Nothing beats taking your bmx bike(mountain bikes were lame back then)on sweat jumps and getting dirty. I remember my Dad saying more times than I can remember that my name was "mud". It was not that I saught out dirt and mud, it was just that it didn't bother me to get dirty to get where I wanted to go.

So now that Mary and I are older we keep our bikes on the road because they were made that way. They are Cruiser bikes with white-wall tires and large chrome fenders. We don't do jumps, maybe puddles but no mud.

Best for last

2005-09-10T13:16:00.000-05:00

I deliver flowers. It is a decently fun job and it takes me all over the city of Indianpolis. I go to hospitals, offices, homes, and funeral homes. But so far, what happened to me yesterday takes the cake. That includes the half naked grandma only wearing an unbuttoned linen shirt(thank God I did not see anything), and a lady who was obviosly not happy that her boyfriend got her flowers. He sat right next to her in the office. I was filled in by another employee that they live together and had a big fight. It was an awkard moment nonetheless, and the boyfriend even made a scene to tip me five bucks.

Well, it went like this. I had to deliver a glass planter thing that was shaped like a house (pretty lame if you ask me). The name on a delivery was obviously a women's name. I think it was like ileen. When I went to the door, I asked for ileen. The young quite pudgy 20-something dude pointed to the Man behind him. This person did not look like an ileen. He had to be in his mid thirties. Tan, long shaved legs, very bald, thin and small wire rim glasses. Not to mention the girls tank top (brown), and very short tight jean shorts, "package" included. This person gladly excepted the delivery. I am pretty sure this ileen characture noticed the discomfort on my face, but I am sure he gets that quit often. This whole transaction probably lasted about 15 to 20 seconds. I was glad that was my last delivery.
-jonny

Morning Breath

2005-09-05T11:14:00.000-05:00

Hey, Surprise, Surprise, I colored my hair black again. I know it's hard to believe that I would do something so drastic. This is actually what my hair looks like in the morning...you are just lucky that none of you can smell my morning breath. My suggestion for today is to put on a great Bob Dylan record and just sit and marvel at how good it will make you feel. I know, I know, I'm supposed to be punk rock, but you have to admit that old records have a way of making people feel nostalgic, even if they weren't even born when the records came out. My two favorite old tunes that make me feel the best are Bob Dylan's "A Hard Rain's Gonna Fall" and the Beatles song "Blackbird". "Blackbird" is an especially amazing song because it reminds me of my family out in Massachusetts. My uncle Joe sang it on Thanksgiving when everyone was passing around the guitar...a pretty sweet rendition of it too. Well that's about it for one of my only posts in a while. Jon usually does the posts. Love you guys, thanks for checking up on us. Mary

Mary's Big Break

2005-08-31T10:17:00.000-05:00

Well, she did it. Mary has her very own Gangster Rap cd. I don't think anyone saw this comming. It is on a small Indianapolis based record label called Fat Booty records. Record executives say it will be a hit.

Sariosly

2005-08-25T01:31:00.000-05:00

As requested, I posted Mary's paintings over to the right under "Our Stuff". Feel free to take a look. Thanx.

-Jonny

Howdy

2005-08-23T00:06:00.000-05:00

Last week we went to the Indianapolis State Fair twice. We got hooked up with 4 free tickets. Fairs are all the same: dirty carnies, muggy weather, screaming kids, frustrated parents, unhealthy-tasty-expensive food and inappropriately dressed teens. So all in all I guess we had fun.

-jonny

The past meets the present

2005-08-17T22:43:00.000-05:00

Tonight Mary and I went to Carmel Indiana to pick up a few items at a house that some people I know are staying at. The things included a sleeping bag, some files and some books. The sleeping bag is mine and the other things are my dad's. The people we went to meet were Bill and Mary Isley. You see, when my family were missionaries down in Costa Rica for 5 years they were there as well. My dad and Bill taught at the same Bible Seminary there where they taught Costaricans Biblical Theology and other things to be pastors or whatnot. Well my family left in '98 but they still live there. I guess they built a house there. They had ample storage space there and agreed to store some of our stuff with plans that my parents were going back to live. Well, my parents never moved back and we still have stuff stored there. Mainly my dad's books and files. So every time they come up here they bring a few items. Anyway, it is just kinda wierd when my past meets my present.

Jonny

Sunday At The Park

2005-08-15T23:38:00.000-05:00

Sunday Jon and I went and hung out with our buddy Jamie Smith while she peddled her art at an open market at a park in Irvington (a really cool historic area in Indy). It was cool to see a friend actually selling something. She made some cool cards and packaged them up. Quite a few people stopped at her table, and actually bought some (what a novel idea for artists). It was pretty cool though. You do meet alot of crazy people at these events though, including a very wierd guy who took our picture when he thought we weren't looking and bugged us a while about photo and his hatred of digital cameras. I did make another contact for a possible art show though from a pretty cool young couple who just started a studio/gallery in Irvington. They were super cool, so hopefully it works out. They were at the table next to Jamie, so that was pretty cool.
We do have one photo to show for the event. Jon inadvertanly erased the one of Jaime's booth, so here's one of her acting crazy.

Rainy Day

2005-08-15T13:33:00.000-05:00

Monday, the groggiest day of the week. In this case it is raining. Which multiplies the grogginess of the passing moments. Bands such as Damien Jurado, Starflyer 59 and Pedro the Lion set mood just right. My wife wanted me to post her painting in-progress for all to see. It is schedualed to be in this years highly anticepated Christmas one piece show at the Dean Johnson Gallery here in Indianapolis. So far, I think it is comming along pretty nice.

Thanks to Mary's sweet hook up at Herff Jones, she gets to take home a sweet Canon 10d when she wants, which means mucho photographio for us-o.
-jonny

Numero Uno

2005-08-13T19:10:00.000-05:00

I guess, in order to stay cool, we, after much deliberation and strategic planning, decided to jump in on this latest craze. Since our coolness level is quite low living in Indianapolis we thought that this would kick it up a notch and put us back on the charts. We will do our best keeping you posted on our most exciting lives. Enjoy