A few gems from a recent roll of Ilford XP-2, run through my Minolta XG-1…




A few gems from a recent roll of Ilford XP-2, run through my Minolta XG-1…




The Diana Mini is the younger sister of the Diana F+. And it’s freakin’ adorable.

Diana cameras are often mentioned in the same breath as Holga cameras. I’ve loved my Holga 135 BC since 2011 when I found it in an Urban Outfitters as a newlywed strolling in Savannah, GA. Based on my undying affection for my Holga, it was a pretty safe bet that I’d love a Diana as well. I finally decided to take the bait when a new edition was released in mint green, my signature color.
Like a Holga, the Diana Mini is a plastic ‘toy’ camera. And, also like a Holga, the Diana was originally produced in Hong Kong in the 1960s. The original Diana was made by Great Wall Plastic Company. It was made so cheaply that it could be used as a promotional giveaway, the kind of thing you might win as a prize at the fair or find emblazoned with the logo of your local pizza shop. It also made an excellent little “intro camera” for photography students, the kind that never planned to take more than one class.

The newer versions of the Diana (including the Mini and the F+) are made by Lomography, a company that specializes in somewhat quirky gear and lo-fi results.
Continue readingLately I’ve been grateful for…

Giant kitten paws (with extra toes!).

For waterfall hikes and this beautiful friend.

For multi-colored Quinoa.

For family traditions and rushing rivers.

And for vacation memories.
September ‘24, you’re not half bad. 🩷

Ingredients:

Directions: Sauté the onion, carrots, celery, garlic and finely-diced potatoes in olive oil in a smaller pot or pan. In your large stockpot, melt the butter and add flour. Cook the flour and butter on low for 2-3 minutes stirring frequently, then slowly add the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. To your large pot— Add the sautéed veggies, shredded chicken, fresh thyme and nutmeg. Simmer on low for at least 15 minutes (longer is better). Add the gnocchi and 2 cups water and simmer for another 5-10 minutes. Turn off heat. Add 3-4 heaping handfuls of fresh spinach and wilt into the soup. Add Half & Half slowly. Salt and pepper to taste. Serve in bowls topped with shredded Parmesan. I recommend warm crusty buttered bread for dipping.
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