hanson_s_lee's photostream  

Nikon D90 with AF NIKKOR 85mm f/1.8D
ISO 200, f/2.2, 1/200, 0 EV
Aperture-priority

It wasn't too long ago that Maddie would scream bloody murder at the thought of entering the pool... now she loves it and and can even dunk her head backward, almost to a back float. There's still a lot to work on before she can really swim, but I think just being in the pool is therapeutic for her autism. It makes me so happy to see her enjoy this so much!

Nikon D90 with AF-S NIKKOR 50mm f/1.4G
ISO 200, f/2.0, 1/400, 0 EV
Aperture-priority

Taken at the playground inside the San Francisco Zoo last weekend. As I was sorting through photos, this one really caught my eye. Aside from the natural light and bokeh that I love, something about Maddie's expression really spoke to me.

Due to her autism, Maddie doesn't really talk much... but I know she is really bright inside. She has an innocence about her that draws you in. Sometimes I think she can see right into my heart and knows exactly how I feel about her. Things can be challenging sometimes, but she somehow finds a way to connect to my heart.

Over the years, the words of this song really ring true for my relationship with Maddie...

In my daughter's eyes,
I am a hero,
I am strong and wise,
And I know no fear,
But the truth is plain to see,
She was sent to rescue me,
I see who I want to be,
In my daughter's eyes

In my daughter's eyes,
Everyone is equal,
Darkness turns to light,
And the world is at peace,
This miracle god gave to me,
Gives me strength when I am weak,
I find reason to believe,
In my daughter's eyes

And when she wraps her hand around my finger,
How it puts a smile in my heart,
Everything becomes a little clearer,
I realize what life is all about,
It's hanging on when your heart has had enough,
It's giving more when you feel like giving up,
I've seen the light,
It's in my daughter's eyes

- Martina Mcbride

Nikon D90 with AF NIKKOR 85mm f/1.8D
ISO 450, f/1.8, 1/250, 0 EV
Shutter-priority

Taken this afternoon at the playground... it was actually warm and sunny in San Francisco today! There was a nice glow as the sun was about to set. :-)

Nikon D90 with AF NIKKOR 85mm f/1.8D
ISO 200, f/1.8, 1/250, 0 EV
Aperture-priority

Taken yesterday afternoon at San Mateo Central Park. There was some nice light as the sun was hiding behind some clouds behind me.

Going into 2012, I just feel very blessed for everything and everyone in my life. I couldn't ask for more, and I'm just so thankful. I'm looking forward to exciting new things in the new year!

(Are you like me, waiting to see what the D800 will look like? Seems long overdue, but rumor has it that it's almost here!)

Nikon D90 with AF-S NIKKOR 50mm f/1.4G
ISO 200, f/1.8, 1/1600, 0 EV
Aperture-priority

Taken this afternoon at West Sunset Playground in San Francisco. Maddie likes to climb and play a bit... then she decides to take a break by laying on the ground.

It's hard to believe that Christmas and New Years are right around the corner! Hope everyone gets to take a break and spend time with loved ones... Happy Holidays!