Somethin’ Different from Natalie Blake - Dripping Springs Photographer

When we bought this property several years ago we knew it needed a lot of work to make it our home.  We had remodeled homes in which we were living, four previous times and fortunately each had yielded a handsome return on our investment.  This house was by far the biggest project though and we never would have undertaken such a big renovation except for the the fact that it backs up to Barton Creek. 

Three other realtors showed us this house before one of them mentioned the creek in the backyard.  (Honestly, we weren’t just touring the area, we expected our realtor to do a little homework - another good reason to always get an agent that is local to the area you are buying - and that doesn’t mean an Austin realtor showing homes in Dripping Springs). 

Fours years later we are still living in a suedo construction project and trying to simplify and rid ourselves of all the junk collected over several years, birthdays and 5 children that had filled our house in Round Rock with that was 1000sqft bigger.   Yes, a major change indeed.  We wanted to slow down, get out of the rat-race and enjoy life.  What better way than with your own private park in the backyard to explore with the kids?   Anyhow, every once in a while I have to remind myself why we moved here: location.  You can always fix up your house, but you can’t do much about the area surrounding it.  

We love being outdoors and who wouldn’t want a swimming hole in their backyard?!  Granted, we’ve been working on our home for several years, because my husband and I are week-end warriors and perfectionists and it’s just easier to do it myself rather than following behind someone to do it right and pay them (ok - we’re cheap too - you can only spend it once!) .  But when it comes to days like this…well, I couldn’t ask for more!  I hope you enjoy the photos!

Of course, I broke my own rules, shooting broad day-light at high noon, but it was fishing time!  How could I say no?

And this one, ferocious, huh?  Actually, she’s a big baby, and wouldn’t leave her boy’s side for anything.   I think she really believes that he is her pup.  She will lick his entire head, its kind of gross but they both love it, even if he needs to shower afterwards.

Is this my good side?   No, really, is it? 

For those interested:  Steve Curran, http://warriorclassfitness.com/ is offering an excellent deal for September!  If you’ve thought about trying it, this would be a good time…

All returning members pay $75, bring a friend that signs up an get an additional $25 off, and they pay only $100.

Here’s a Casting Call for all you local musicians:

[CAUCASIAN/CROSS-OVER MALE] Ages 22-29 years…SINGER/Musician/Folk
rocker…looking for a cross between Michael Cera and Conor
Oberst…innocence and sweetness in his personality mixed in with a
little quirky eclectic feel. Hip, but not too hip. We don’t want
actors pretending to be singer/musicians. Optimal guy is one who is a
member of a band or a solo act who is involved in the Austin music
scene or similar. This spot requires singing a specially composed song
for the spot…so the vocal quality does not have to be outstanding,
just engaging enough personality-wise and good enough talent-wise to
carry off the composition.

Good luck!