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Sunday 20 November 2011

Sunday Snaps!

Hi everyone.  Well, I expect all my American friends are getting excited about Thanksgiving now, and getting all the food in to prepare for the feast!  As I only started blogging in October last year, it was the first time that I had really heard about Thanksgiving in a big way.  My goodness, I can still remember how astounded I was by all the food that everyone was preparing.  I can distinctly remember saying in a blog post how much I wished we had Thanksgiving over here!!

So, we now come to my Sunday Snaps for this week, and I've got a little secret.  I'm having a new camera for Christmas, and it arrived a few days ago.  Was I a good girl, and did I put it away in the cupboard until the big day?  No, I'm afraid I did not!  I couldn't resist taking it out of its box and having a little peek.  "I'll just have a little read of the Manual" I thought to myself. 

Then, you've guessed it, "well, I could  take a few photos just to try it out."  The make and model is a Nikon D3100 Digital SLR camera, and I am absolutely thrilled with it.  For one thing, it's easy to use.  Even an idiot like me could work it all out very quickly, so that was certainly a bonus.
Many of my Followers read Desiree's blog, over at Driftwood Ramblings, and she has some amazing photos on her blog.  Anyway, she recommended this one to me and, after much research on the internet, I am so glad that this is the one I have gone for.

So, ta da, here are a few of my practice shots :











The camera is now all packed away again in its box!

Hope you're all having a relaxing weekend wherever you are.

45 comments:

Claudia Moser said...

Great quality! Wow, Desiree for sure did recommend a wonderful camera. You sound so excited, I am so happy for you :) Happy Sunday!

Desiree said...

Oh, Diane! Your pictures are ASTOUNDING! Such clarity and detail! I've never had this kind of result. You really know how to 'work things' don't you :) I cannot wait to see what treats you'll have in store for us once your new toy reemerges from its box :) I think you were wise to give it a test run...imagine if it had had a problem and you only discovered that on Christmas morning. What a downer that would have been, hey? I wish you many, many joyous moments with your new best friend. You're an inspiration and I'm going to love seeing what you achieve with your Nikon D3100. Big hug xoxo

Desiree said...

PS I LOVE your new header! You're so adventurous and talented, Diane. I haven't changed a thing on my blog since Linda set me up a year ago. Yes, my first anniversary came and went on the 18th of November. I'd planned to hold a Give-away to mark the occasion, but just couldn't actually get around to looking for something suitably desirable to offer up as the prize :) I find shopping an almost impossible chore these days. Maybe next year ;)

orchid0324 said...

Dearest Diane,
Wow, Ah!!!
You DID found a wonderful or treasonable camera through Desiree's splendid recommendation♡♡♡
I am really proud of you that you have made a marvelous results with your test shots. How clear these are and Ruby look SO cute♬♬♬
Congratulations, and you are really dexterous lady.
I LOVE the new header and quotes as well☆☆☆
Blessing and big Hugs from Japan, xoxo Miyako*

not displayed said...

What beautiful photos and what an exciting gift to look forward to.

I, like you, had no idea what a huge thing Thanksgiving was until I started blogging. Sounds both a fun and slightly scary holiday lol

Anonymous said...

Dear Diane,

It's a nice camera you got there, I am sure you will have a lot of fun taking many nice photos with it. It was some nice snaps you've put up today. I find photography very interesting, and I especially like taking close ups. And it makes it more fun when you have a good tool to work with. A great choice my friend! Enjoy your Sunday! Hugs x

Gawgus things... said...

I was expecting great things from the post! The camera takes great photo's - love the header and the smiley signature button :)

Linda O'Connell said...

Wow! You will have hours of fun taking photgraphs. My husband has the same one and loves it so much he buys IT presents, lens that do this and that, cases that transport this gadget and that. Enjoy.

Unknown said...

The pics are stunning. Yes, we are preparing for Thanksgiving on this side of the pond. However, of late, it has become less about the holiday and more about the 'great shopping deals.'

Shady Del Knight said...

That darned Desiree has stolen all of my words, Thisisme! The very first word that came to mind when I looked that these pictures was ASTOUNDING, the same word that Desiree chose. These images pop! The quality is exceptionally good. Now that you own that marvelous camera you can record the growth and development of your grandchildren (and Alfred) as well as your garden and the sights around Devon even better than before. Desiree also robbed me of my praise for your new header. You truly have one of the loveliest blogs anywhere! Happy Sunday to you, dear friend!

Shelly said...

Gorgeous pics, especially of the kids. Pity you had to put such a nice camera back into the box!

Southhamsdarling said...

Claudia - Thank you so much! I am very excited. Don't know what's wrong with me lately. I seem to be getting excited about everything! LOL!!

Desiree - I am SO pleased you liked the photos. I also took some great ones outside in the pitch dark. You are being far too modest as always. Your photos are always absolutely stunning, and that is why we all look forward to them so much. I enjoy changing my header photos, but it does take me quite a time to get it just right. I just think that it's keeping the old brain going, keeping (or trying to!) up with all this new technology.

Orchid - greetings my friend from the East! <3 Desiree did well with her recommendation, didn't she?! I did laugh at Linda's comment today.

Mynx - hallo. Good to see you here today. Yes, Thanksgiving sounds like quite a lot of pressure to me! Glad you liked the photos.

Eva - Hi on this gorgeous Sunday! Yes, like you, I have always loved photography, so I'm really looking forward to taking some good shots with this one. Hugs.

Gawgus - glad you like the header and the photos. Took me ages to do that flipping header! But I did it! x

Linda - Oh, I did smile at your comment about your husband. I read it out to hubby, and he thought it was so funny. That will probably be me after Christmas. LOL!! It's a super camera though.

The Queen Bee - Hallo! I don't think I've seen you over here before. Welcome and I hope you will pop by again. Yes, I'm also hearing about the bargains from my American friends!

Rebecca said...

beautiful photos full of vibrant colors and yes gettng excited about Thnaksgiving even it means my 40th birthday is only 5 days later. hope you are having a grand weekend..hugs

Unknown said...

I am soooooooooooo impressed with your new found talent. That camera is awesome and as Desiree said the pictures are so sharp and clear. I also can't wait to see what else you can snap to show us. Have a great afternoon and enjoy the rest of your sunday.
Odie

flowers on my table said...

You little rascal, what will Santa say, if he knows you've been hoking about in the cupboards. I must say it's a terribly professional looking piece of kit, and your pics look great. I love your new header also.

Thankyou for your kind remarks Diane. How lovely that all your family will be home for Christmas.Last year Lois nagged me to get the decs. up early and I did it reluctantly at the start of December. I have to say though, that it was great, as I normally get quite hassled with work coming up to Christmas, and all the other stuff to be done. We could really enjoy having the home decorated. So I will do the same this year.Have a happy Thanksgiving and a lovely relaxing Sunday, love Linda x

Southhamsdarling said...

Shady - Happy Sunday dear Tom! I do hope you realize just how much your comments always bring a big smile to my face, both on my own blog and, also, when you comment on Gawgus' blog. "That darned Desiree indeed"!! Hee Hee! I was really pleased with the photos, I must admit, and I took those within an hour of opening the box, so it really is very simple. I'm glad you also liked the new header, and thank you for your sweet comment about my blog. :)

Shelly - thank you. I know, it was a pity about putting it away again, but I have something to look forward to on Christmas Day now, don't I?!

Becca - thank you, and I'm glad that you're getting excited about Thanksgiving. a 40th birthday coming up!! Eeek! That is a very special one. You're a mere youngster my friend, and I can promise you that it only gets better - and better!!

Odie - hi my friend. I don't think it's anything to do with my talent. Think it's all down to the camera. LOL! Although I suppose I did frame all the shots. I'm really looking forward to using it, but not until Christmas Day!

flowers on my table - Hi Linda. I know, Santa won't be very happy with me, will he?! Oh well, I'll just have to be extra good from here on in, otherwise he'll be taking it away from me again!! I'm glad Lois persuaded you to put the decorations up early. It does make it more relaxing leading up to Christmas, I think :) Thank you for liking my new header. Hugs x

Desiree said...

It's definitely not all down to the camera, Diane! It's the way you see things, your artistic way of composing each picture and, of course, your ability to use the correct settings ;) Seriously, though, I showed my hubby your pictures and he proclaimed them to be very good indeed. He told me I could take pictures like that if I put my mind to it! :)

BTW small correction here...I didn't recommend the camera...you asked about mine and so you took the initial step in the right direction, all on your own, with no help whatsoever from me. All I did was give you the specs and mention I was very happy with mine. So, please take all the credit for your choice YOURSELF!!! Big hug from "That darned Desiree!" xoxo

Southhamsdarling said...

Desiree - Eeeek! I didn't expect to see you back here again. I'd better be careful what I say in future my friend! :) Seriously, I was quite touched that your hubby thought the photos were good. Thank you for coming back and leaving such lovely comments. Big hug.

Suzanne said...

Everything on your blog is scrumptuous today! Fabulous shots with your surprise Gift!!! Beautiful berries and fruit! I may need to upgrade also. And your recent family collage is gorgeous. Congratulations on your new camera. Yes, we're getting ready for Thanksgiving...we'll have our grandson on board with us this year at my husband's family dinner. Hope to get some good photos. Have a great week dear lady!

Glenda said...

OK, now you've made me envious. I've been looking for a camera and I may just put this on my wish list and leave some hints laying around for hubby. The picture quality is great!

rainbow said...

Lucky you to get your gift early. I have hinted for a Nikon SLR for the last 3 Christmas and the 3100 for the last 2. Guess I have just not been GOOD ENOUGH. I am still waiting but I am not going to give up. Your shots are mind blowing, enjoy your treasure. THANKS FOR SHARING.

HAPPY THANKSGIVING TO EVERYONE. When I was not working I use to have everyone over to my home and would cook for a week to get ready. Loads of fun, but now I am the only one working so four families want us to come by for dinner. We just eat all day and I done have to cook anything. Hope everyone enjoys the good eats on Turkey Day.

rainbow (Momma Lyn)

Belle said...

Sorry I am so late. I think your camera is amazing! The photos are so sharp and the color wonderful. I like the pictures you chose for your header. Very cute of the children - precious babies. God bless and hugs.

Katherines Corner said...

Lovely snaps my sweet friend. Yes, Thanksgiving here in America is a lovely holiday filled with friendly gatherings, and yes, plenty of food. It's a lovely tradition. This year our daughter is having us over for dinner. The first time ever that I won't be cooking everything. I'm looking forward to the get together. xo

I Wonder Wye said...

Those photos are awesome -- so clear -- you have a great eye too. My favorites were the first two. You are going to have fun with that new camera!

Southhamsdarling said...

Susan - hi there. "Scrumptious"! I do like that word! Hee Hee! Glad you liked the photos. How lovely to have your grandson with you for Thanksgiving. I look forward to photos!

Glenda - I like your new profile piccie! Yes, I would highly recommend this camera, so do leave that wish list lying around. (Not sure that would work with my hubby!! I usually have to buy it and then tell me what he's bought me for Christmas! Hee Hee!).

rainbow - it will be lovely for you to have a break from the cooking this year, especially as you are the only one working :( Hope you have a lovely time. What a shame you didn't get that camera. You see, I have been very very good! LOL!! Warmest wishes to you my friend.

Belle - you're here. That's the main thing!! So glad you liked the photos today, and the new header photo. The little ones are just so precious, aren't they? Hugs to you dear friend.

Katherines Corner - enjoy your Thanksgiving with the family my friend, and how wonderful that you don't have to cook - for the first time! :) x

Southhamsdarling said...

I Wonder Wye - hallo! How lovely to see you over here today. I hope you will pop in again. So pleased you enjoyed the photos and came across to leave a comment. Yes, I know that I will have a lot of fun with the new camera!

LindyLouMac said...

Brilliant, although I would have been unable to put it away again! I also use a Nikon, mine is a Coolpix P500 and I love it, so thoroughly approve of Desiree's recommendation. Have a good week my friend.

Southhamsdarling said...

LindyLouMac in Italy - Hi Linda. Thanks for popping across from Italy! I saw that you had a very good camera as well, as you had it round your neck on your HongKong holiday! I'm really looking forward to using it, I must admit.Hope all is well. Take care.

Stella said...

What great photo! You didn't tape the box back up did you? You know, just in case, you might have a chance just to capture a wonderful photo. What a great gift.

Bethe77 said...

What amazing pictures you have snapped with that little gift. I think I woiuld be as tempted you. But at least you put it back and packed it to go under the tree. Im not so sure I would do the same.
Yes preparations are surely under way with this being Thanksgivng week. I have a very busy week ahead. Im thinking the Lord will need to infuse me with His strength.
I pray every bite I eat has no calories.
Hae a blessed week.
And in my American tradition Happy Thanksgiving to you and yours Thisisme.
Blessings

Southhamsdarling said...

Stella = lovely to see you here today. And, NO, I didn't tape the box, just in case I need to take a quick photo! Hee Hee!!

Bethe - So glad you enjoyed the photos, and it's lovely to see you over here. I've missed you! But I know just how busy you are at the moment :( I pray that the Lord will get you through this week (with no extra calories!!) and I do hope that you will get time for some REST my friend. Wishing you and all your family a very Happy Thanksgiving.

Chatty Crone said...

You must have been a real good girl this year!

And those pictures are awesome - what a difference a camera makes.

sandie

Facing50.Blog said...

Wow look at me at the bottom of a whole pile of peeps who love you and of course I am a big fan of Desiree's blog and photos. Well, all I van say is hurray! What a fab camera and I am sure you will be posting spiffing piccies for us. Your blog has just got better and better since you began it. Well done!
Looking forward to seeing all the new yhings you will unsoibtedly xome up with.
Xxx

Darlene said...

Wow, Diane! Those photos are absolutely gorgeous! I love the detail of those close-ups. Desiree sure knows what she's talking about! I'll bet it's tough to put back in the box after getting such beautiful results! Can't wait to see more photos!

Southhamsdarling said...

Chatty - I'm ALWAYS a good girl!!!! x

Facing50 - Hi Carol, my leetle friend. You could NEVER be bottom of the heap in my eyes! Eeeek! Although I see your spelling hasn't improved since you've become a famous author!! (See your last sentence of your comment!). Yes, I shall look forward to taking some spiffing photos for you all! Thank you for the nice comment about my blog dear friend.

Darlene - thank you! I was very pleased with the results, I must admit. Hope you and your pink feather boa are doing well at the moment! Desiree is a little gem, isn't she?!

vintch said...

oh wow! what a beautiful camera! and looks like you sure know how to use it already:) i'm glad christmas came early for you, sweet friend!

Southhamsdarling said...

vintch - Yes, I'm a very lucky girl, aren't I?! It's now in its box until Christmas Day, and I expect I will be taking lots of photos then. Blessings my friend.

Empty Nester said...

Leave a camera boxed until Christmas? NO WAY!!! I'm so glad you opened it up- just look at those photos! Wow! Excellent quality for sure! And it really shows up those beautiful green eyes, doesn't it? What a sweetheart!

And I won't tell anyone you took it out of the box! LOL

Southhamsdarling said...

Empty Nester - Hi Pam. Lovely to see you here today. Glad you liked the photos, and thanks for keeping my little secret!!

BECKY said...

Oh, I've been wanting a really great camera for SO long. I asked Santa last year, but I guess I wasn't a very good girl, 'cause I didn't get one! Your blog and photos have always been beautiful, but the difference is very noticeable! And hey, Diane, you can make your OWN Thanksgiving!!

Southhamsdarling said...

Becky - well, hallo my friend! I see you didn't get a camera. Well, we can't all be good girls, can we?! You'll have to try a bit harder next year! Yes, the difference in the photos really is amazing. You're right, I CAN make my own Thanksgiving!! Have a good one.

Unknown said...

I love your photographs! Such brilliant color and texture. How exciting to have a new camera to blog with and to keep your treasured memories. Blogging has helped me to not be such a technophobe. I'm sure that before long you'll be teaching us all how to use the manual settings! This Thanksgiving I'm thankful for you!

Southhamsdarling said...

Kneesandpaws - hi Jenny. Thank you for popping over! I'm so glad you liked the photos and, yes, I can't wait to get going with the new camera! Thank you so much for that sweet comment at the end my friend. Wishing you and all your family a happy, loving and blessed Thanksgiving x

Sally Wessely said...

I'm just now reading about your new camera. You will really enjoy it. My husband has the same camera. Every once in a while I use it and am just amazed at what it can do. Have fun.

Southhamsdarling said...

Retired English Teacher - Hallo Sally. Thank you for popping over. I seem to have a lot of comments about this particular post! It seems that several people have got this particular camera, and I'm glad that you like it too. I'm looking forward to really getting to grips with it properly at Christmas. Happy Thanksgiving my friend.