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He and I have many mutual friends on Facebook which is how we originally connected. After attending a conference in Vegas last year and hearing rave reviews from a bunch of girls who all just adore him and were sporting his very cool jewelry, I decided to respond back to a chat he initiated to say hi. To my very happy surprise, I discovered he was very deserving of all the love he receives. Highly intelligent, actively working to save the world through his LCL Report website, and one heck of an amazing jewelry designer!

But here’s exact the moment I really fell in love with Tarrin: Around the holidays I received a special package from him and when I opened it up, I discovered he had made me this custom necklace with a “Don’t Tread on Me” silver pendant AND a one of a kind “Texans for Accountable Government” pendant bracelet. I was completely blown away by his generosity. And everyone who sees those pieces on me fall in love with them, just like I did. I’m always asked “Where did you get that awesome jewelry. I want one too!” Which brings me to this post. I wanted to tell the whole world where they could get their own custom jewelry from Tarrin Lupo and share some of the pics I’ve taken of other pieces I’ve seen on friends of mine.

So, I say this from the bottom of my heart, if you’re thinking of purchasing something special for your valentine this year, or if you deserve something special for yourself, I really recommend you check out his jewelry. Each piece is completely unique and custom fitted and his prices are so incredibly reasonable. And, now I don’t know this for sure, but I think he may be secretly putting some special “happy energy” in his stuff because I know when I wear mine, I just feel better or something. So instead of taking those yucky anti-depressants, buy some Tarrin Lupo jewelry. Yeah. Better than Prozac. {grin}

Love you, Tarrin!

Rita

My friend Katie with an original Ladies of Liberty Alliance (LOLA) necklace.

This is Catherine Bleish with her “Free Speech” pendant

Bonita wearing this beautiful silver ring! 

Catherine loves this bracelet so much she said the first time she’s taken it off was for me to shoot this picture.

And here’s my awesome “Don’t Tread on Me” necklace. Each side has the one word on it.

And last but not least, here’s my cool Texans for Accountable Government (TAG) bracelet. Love it! 

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Here’s what I do know: I believe in personal freedom. And I still don’t believe the government is the answer to all life’s problems. In fact, I believe the opposite. I believe in our humanity. I’m anti-war but pro 2nd amendment. I don’t personally believe in abortion but support every women’s right to have sovereignty over their own body. I’m the “left” and the “right” – which is why I don’t honestly subscribe to either.

So what does all this have to do with Jim Marrs? Well he’s an author who has been writing about all of this for ages. He’s been very influential in shaping my personal education around why I don’t believe in government as the answer to our problems. The level of detail found in his research will literally blow your mind! For example, did you know that in WWII, the Nazi’s put fluoride in the drinking water of their camps to keep the prisoners more docile? Why is this interesting, you ask? Well did you know that most cities in the United States put fluoride in the public water supplies? Even though the Center for Disease Control have deemed it unsafe for pregnant women and infants to drink.

Anyway, I won’t bore you with my personal thoughts on all this and just get down to the event pictures. All I gotta say is that maybe those crazy hippies had it right. And once a hippy, always a hippy. :)

Love and Peace!
Rita

If you’re actually interested in this stuff, you should definitely check out Jim Marrs. He was asked by The Citizens Commission on Human Rights. The Texas CCHR office is located here in Austin and has been responsible for the closures of many of the inhuman psychiatric facilities in the state and actively lobby state legislature in defense of our personal freedom and health. Jim was asked to speak at their event because he has uncovered loads of data on how bad government folks have used the drugging of people for their own eevvill plans for decades. {bwwahaha}. Seriously, it’s worth checking out.

Here’s Jim Marrs with the CCHR Texas Executive Director, Claudia Smith, and Jerry Boswell.

Jerry Boswell from CCHR addressing the crowd.

Jim Marrs talking with attendees afterwards and signing books. I’ve meet him a few times and he’s really just a great, down to earth guy.

And here’s my husband, Val, with Mr. Marrs. Just had to include this one – Val admires Jim’s work as much as I do.

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So… I never miss an opportunity to attend an event that I know will be emotionally driven, one where deep seated values and ideology are on display. And, for those who know me on a personal level, I especially love events that bring up topics that share my own beliefs about freedom and independence. You could say I’m somewhat of a “radical” in my viewpoints, and I love it! (I guess I could blame it on being raised by a hippy mom in Berkeley.) I’ve never subscribed to the status quo and don’t believe anything I read in the newspapers. Which now that I think about, is probably another reason I love photojournalism: it allows me to see first hand what is happening so that I can make my own decisions.

Anyway, all this brings me to my thoughts on the Nullification Rally I attended this past weekend. Basically, a bunch of Texans gathered at the Capitol here in Austin to demand that Governor Rick Perry call a special session of our state legislature to officially proclaim that Texas will not comply with federal government acts that are not in the best interest for the citizens of Texas. This is an interesting topic for me, because I personally feel that expanding the size of government is never the answer and have pretty strong opinions on limiting the reach it has into the homes and lives of us all. Put simply: I don’t believe in coercion or force. Call me an idealist…(or an anarchist)… all I can say is that my favorite song IS Imagine. “Some say I’m a dreamer, but I’m not the only one.”

So even though I really don’t believe in the “right/left” paradigm of politics (which just makes people focus on fighting each other vs tackling common issues that we can all agree upon), I do attend different events that will bring attention to things I find important. I’ll be the first to admit, sometimes I really get frustrated when people at these political rallies preach about unity and standing together and then discover they are just political mouth-pieces who are really only interested in getting up and yelling about the problem and not genuinely working together.

Sadly, that is pretty much how I felt about the organizers of this Nullification Rally. I personally even chatted with them to try to come to a common ground on ideology vs political party and was basically shunned. Which just solidified in my mind how we need to break out of the right vs. left and left vs. right attitudes and remember that we’re all just people who want to be supported in our goals of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. And, in my opinion, remember that the only purpose of government was to be a necessary evil put there to defend “we the people” in those individual goals, not enforce what they feel is “right” for us, without our consent, (or worse yet, outright refusal to even listen to the will of the people) in an effort to accomplish their own selfish ends and fulfill back-room promises made with lobbyists.

On this day I really take to heart the message of Martin Luther King, a true hero and someone who understood the real meaning of freedom. And Rosa Parks who said “I’m free! Free to say this law is wrong and sit where I want to sit.” Such inspirations to me. They knew that government does not give us freedom and is often the enemy of freedom. Freedom resides in our hearts and minds, not at the permission of people who do not know you, yet want to control you. Like them, I choose freedom! And I invite you all to do the same.

PEACE!
Rita

I just love this picture of a Debra Medina supporter I saw in the crowd.

As you can see, Texas Gubernatorial candidate, Debra Medina had lots of support in the crowd.

Once the rally was over, some of the Debra Medina supporters showed their frustration with the event organizers for excluding the candidate as a speaker. They believe that she is the only candidate who will fight for the citizens of Texas and restore the ideals of freedom. The organizers actually blasted country music to drown them out, which I personally thought was incredibly juvenile. As it turned out, the organizers were actually die-hard Rick Perry supporters who had already said he would not call the special session they were supposedly there to demand.

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I’ll be honest, I was overwhelmed with the number of photographers who had booths at the show. I think it was something like 40 different companies! And everyone’s work I saw was beautiful, and in many ways, similar. I would hate to be a bride trying to sort through them all. How do you select which one to pick? Quality, packages available, prices? I know if it were me, I’d expect every professional photographer to deliver basically the same stuff, so it would really boil down to if I felt I could trust them. Do I actually like them? I mean, this person will be seeing me in my BRA for goodness sake!

I gotta say, it was interesting attending the show and not being a bride. It allowed me a unique perspective into the level of authenticity different vendors had. One for one, the first thing said to me with a big smile was “Have you found a (fill in the blank) for your wedding yet?” to which my husband would flash his wedding ring, and say “Nope. She’s already said yes.” That’s when the “Huh? Why are you here then?” look would come across their face.

Each time, I would introduce myself, let them know I was a photographer who recently moved here from Los Angeles, there to see what the show was like. This is where it gets interesting: Some people, actually the majority, would at that point literally take a few steps away from me, say “Ok” and turn their sights on the people walking up the aisles. At first, I was sorta like “Hey Val, do I smell or have something in my teeth?” Then I just began to see things for what they were: I wasn’t a prospect and therefore not worth their energy. This made me go back to my original theory: people are looking for honesty, authenticity, and genuine interest in each other’s humanity. At least I was.

Then there where the other vendors I met. The ones with the kind hearts who I could tell genuinely wanted to get to know me. And when I shared that I was a photographer new to the area flashed a big smile and said “Well welcome to Austin. Hey, do you have a card? I would love to hear about your business.” These people… I LOVED!! And to show my love, I’m going to list the ones that really stood out to me below.

I think the real disappointment came from meeting some of the photographers whose work I already admired and discovering that in person, were either cold and unfriendly or, okay I’ll just say it, egotistical. But again, I only saw this side of them the moment they found out I wasn’t a bride and would drop the “friendly” charade. Really made me sorta sad and even more committed to just trying to treat all people with respect and care and not dollar symbols.

So… will I be a vendor at next year’s show? Humm, time will tell, I guess. As for now, I want to focus my energy on being the best photographer, and person, I can be. I think in the end, that will be the true testament to my success. {grin}

Okay, here’s the LOVE list:

1. Simply Elegant Weddings and Events – Event Coordinators

The owner, Pam Emmert, is just a doll. I must have chatted with her for over 10 minutes about the wedding industry, how she was inspired by her daughter’s wedding (who also works with her), and the adventures of starting a new business. She was just a genuinely down to earth and classy lady, as where her staff, who were all just lovely to speak with, full of smiles and encouragement. I hope to one day be able to work with them.

2. An Event to Remember – Event Coordinators

I didn’t get to chat with the owner, Shamika, but did speak with Tramaine for a long time, who was just full of energy and sass. I really liked her vibe a lot. I gathered that they were a somewhat new business themselves and were really open to meeting people in the wedding world could feel comfortable working with themselves. All the ladies in the booth seemed to just have this cool, hip, modern sense of style that I’m sure is reflected in their events.

3. Serve – Event Coordinators – 512-775-5965

Okay, Jennifer and Amanda from Serve are awesome! I gravitated to their booth because I loved the simple and modern style it had. But then when I started chatting with them, it was like seeing old friends. Lots of giggling. And as it turned out, Amanda was from Los Angeles too. They both were very encouraging and I really appreciated their genuine warmth. I didn’t see a website on their card so I’ve just included their phone number on this post in case anyone wants to contact them.

4. Keep Austin Gorgeous Hair and Makeup

Megan is too dang cute! She’s young, enthusiastic, and full of life. Just being around her made me happy. When she found out I was a photographer she was just a wealth of ideas for ways we could work together! Then the subject of film came up with my husband (who’s a filmmaker) and the next thing you know she was showing us pics on her phone of zombies she just did makeup for on a film. I wish I could bottle her energy and take two capsule a day.

5. The Chanterelle Duo

Phil and Sean play classical guitar and the violin (respectively). Val is a guitar player and absolutely loves classical guitar. And yours truly has always wanted to learn violin (I even have one collecting dust). So of course, we had to stop by and listen to them play. After a few minutes, Val and I each make a B line to the musicians and started singing their praises. Next thing you know, Phil is telling me know he teaches violin and Sean is talking all about his Rush tribute band and getting us info on his next gig. These were not stuffy “classical” musicians at all. They were upbeat and excited about their music, and Val and I both walked away feeling just how much they loved what they did. And who knows, I may ring up Phil for those violin lessons.

6. Debra Gulbas Photography

Debra and Osvaldo where the first photography booth I saw when we arrived, and even after seeing the other 39 photographers, they were the ones that still lingered in my mind when I left. Debra was so friendly and willing to just talk shop. She suggested we meet and continue our chat over a cup of coffee, which I can’t even begin to say how much I appreciated. She was just a sincere and kind-hearted person who welcomed me to the Austin photographer world with arms wide open. And Osvaldo, her second shooter who was also working the booth, was just as cool. He has his own website too: www.ocontrerasphotography.com (which wins first place for cleverness in my book).

7. Illuminate Photography

And last, but certainly not least, is Lisa from Illuminate Photography who is a major sweetheart. She didn’t know me from Eve and just via email, responded to me in a way that made me feel like she really did care. Her business has been booming so a local meetup group has asked her to lead a marketing workshop to share what she’s done. I think it’s awesome when I meet a photographer who isn’t scared to help other photographers. And especially when they don’t have that yucky “Let me mentor you, oh lowly beginner” vibe. When I finally met her in person at the show, she gave me a big hug and reminded me to contact her so we could meet and chat. From what I could tell, her real secret to success is just her decision to lead with her heart and find joy in what she does.

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I’m also reflecting on how I’ve been so worried about “getting old” – I mean I’m almost 40 (okay in a few years, but still). But in my heart, I’m the awkward girl who doesn’t really know how to dance or dress right. The girl who still believes we can all heal the world with the love in our hearts. And still loves to spin in circles on the marry-go-round. The girl who giggles too much at Adam Sandler movies and cries too easily at the stories where love conquers all.

And I reflect on the impact I’m making in life. Once feeling like the thousand+ people I’m connected with on facebook was just an inflated number of “friends” until today, my birthday, when I’m overwhelmed with the outpour of love sent out by you all. New names, old names, all taking a moment to brighten my day and let me know I’m not forgotten. Each note, each text message, each IM is dear to my heart and I love you all!

This year is the year of Rita. This is the year I’m going to actually use the mini-trampoline that has been sitting downstairs getting dust. This is the year I’m going to make my vision board and go after my dreams. This is the year I’m going to turn fear into goals accomplished. This is the year I’m going to love even more and not forget to tell the special people in my life just how much they mean to me. One day at a time… stay tuned!

XOXO!
Rita Q

Me and my husband, Val

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“Are you Rita?” I hear from a short distance away. It’s Allison, who looked just as relieved as I did, when I nodded “yes” and then greeted me with a warm hug and a smile. My fears were set at ease. Then I noticed she was wearing a UT orange sweatshirt and he had an A&M cap and thought to myself: This really is true love!

For the next 45 mins or so, we chatted about life, the engagement proposal, living in Los Angeles (which is where they call home now), and how the wedding guest list has grown. I love their laid back attitude about the whole thing and I can tell immediately that they aren’t about keeping up with the Hilton’s, and are more about surrounding themselves with the people they love and, as Ben said: “We just want to make sure everyone is fed.”

As we ended our little meeting I thought to myself “I’m sure I’m forgetting something important I’m supposed to say or do.” But as we all walked toward our cars, my mind was already picturing Allison in her dress and Ben smiling at her as she walked down the aisle. My heart pounded a little, feeling so honored they would chose me to be there on their wedding day and what I could do to help make it even more special for them. It was then that I realized I wasn’t forgetting anything. I just needed to see with my heart and remember to pack my camera. I’ll figure out the rest…

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Personally, I believe we get what we put out into the world. And the one thing I grew to love about this group of folks is their positive energy approach and general good vibes. No pretenses, no popularity contests, and above all, no “right vs left” dogmatic ideals – just people doing what they can to make a positive difference in our communities. And I love that!!

I have to give an extra big thanks to Angela who helped out that night with the photobooth, which was the big hit of the evening. And as always, thanks to my amazing husband, Val, who knows just how to make me feel loved in a sea of faces. I was thrilled to be invited to photograph this event and look forward to seeing their future activities. Check them out if you want at www.tagtexas.org.

“We’ve got to give a little love, have a little hope. Maybe we can make it better.”

XOXO
Rita Q

ps: I’ve read about a lot of pro photographers raving about blogstomp, this AMAZING (and dirt cheap) photoshop action that helps you make quick work of getting images prepped for your blog. So, I bought it and used it for the first time on the images below. I love it!

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