Day By Snap Photography

Today.

2012-01-02T15:21:00.000-08:00

Today, I accept myself just the way I am.

Today, I accept my body the way it is.

Today, I accept my mind the way it is.

Today, I accept my heart the way it is.

Today, the love I have for myself is so strong that I embrace all that is me.

Self-love transforms my life from fear to joy and guides me to make healthy choices.

Today, I share time with others and easily forgive any injustice I feel in my mind.

Today, all of my relationships are based on respect, love, and joy.

Today, I allow the divine wisdom in me to direct all my thoughts, words, and deeds.

Today, I allow divine love to give me the peace and joy.

Today, I remember I am one with all life, and I give thanks for being me.

Seattle, Washington - December 2011

The Fields.

2011-12-18T09:09:00.000-08:00

I apologize for the silence on my end. It's been a whirlwind of busyness for the last four months. Graduate school and work has been the definition of life. Sometimes I remember to do things for me, and other times I hit a wall and don't really know how to pull myself back up.

I'm writing this from a train, on my way to Edmonds, WA to visit a dear friend. I've been in Washington for about two days and it's already been incredibly good for my soul. Recently I have found myself searching for inspiration - some kind of charge that keeps me going for a month or two. School assignments and classes drain me, sometimes work can be draining from pouring so much of myself out, and I miss out on the things that feed my spirit.

Travel has always been something that I was able to rely on to bring me back to my center. It's the one thing, besides photography that makes me feel like I've reconnected with my soul. As this train took me through beautiful parts of Northern Washington, I couldn't help but start to let the tears fall. Not because of sadness, but because I felt myself being filled up again. The scenery, the peace, and the expectation of the next few days of being present with the people I love and going on adventures.

Taking myself out of my element and exploring this amazing world that we live in is truly a gift.

Cheers.

Simplicity in complexity.

2011-11-09T16:22:00.000-08:00

This has been such a reflective time in my life. I've had the opportunity to reevaluate and process a lot of decisions, relationships, circumstances, and fears in the last two months. There is so much room in our lives for worry, but when we truly step back and look at all of the goodness that is underneath it, it proves that life is still simply, good.

I woke up the other morning and the sun was peaking into my room from my kitchen window. It's moments like these where I can stop, and enjoy beauty in simplicity. The flurries of particles were dancing in the rays of sunlight and all I could think was "freeze". What would we do differently if we could step back into memories that make our hearts flood with joy? Or even memories that make our hearts wrench with despair?

You cannot "do life over". You can't re-create or remake things that once were, but you can choose to be fully present and embrace what God is giving you.

Enjoy the people in your life.
Enjoy the circumstances you currently find yourself in.
Enjoy love.
Enjoy yourself.

Love.

Boutiques!

2011-10-24T09:31:00.000-07:00

This past Thursday I had the opportunity to help out a dear friend, Angi with a boutique where she was invited to showcase and sell her hand designed calligraphy stamps.

We met another business owner, Jessica who owns Allora handmade.

It was a great evening filled with laughs, and inspiration!

Love.

Refreshed.

2011-10-23T12:31:00.000-07:00

I'm back.

Rested.

Centered.

And most of all,

focused.

Thanks for your grace and patience.

Bellingham, Washington. July, 2007.

The thing that will take your life... and light it up.

2011-09-22T23:18:00.000-07:00

I've got all of this creative energy crawling through my veins and I feel like I'm about to explode. I don't necessarily know where I need to channel it... or what I need to do, but some kind of project is in the midst of being made.

Blogging has not been on the forefront of my mind as of late. Work took over, and swallowed me whole. But, I'm back now and I'm feeling a bit unsure as to what I need to do to get the ball rolling again.

Bellingham, Washington 2009

Cancer.

2011-09-03T21:45:00.000-07:00

I don't usually like to post too much personal information here. But I've definitely needed to say this.

In life, I have never really supported a cause. I've never really found something that hit me so deep to the core, that I wanted to be apart of a movement. But since May 17th, 2011 I have found something that taps into my heart and makes me want to tell the world.

Breast Cancer.

It is a disease that kills women (and some men) daily, monthly, yearly. It is serious. It is curable. It is unfortunate.

Breast Cancer.

It's stolen my joy. It's affected someone who is closer to me than my skin itself. Someone who has taught me the most about life, love, and womanhood. It has ripped my soul into shreds and laughed at me while I find myself again.

Breast Cancer.

It lurks and springs into action without warning. It moves fast. It is devastating. It is destructive. It changes lives.

Breast Cancer.

It has changed my life in less than 6 months. I am amazed at what it does to me when I hear it now. Before, I would turn a deaf ear to it and pretend like it didn't exist, while I was secretly grateful that I did not have to deal with it.

Breast Cancer.

Starting today, 30% of any profit made from Day By Snap Photography sessions will go to the Susan G. Komen foundation for the cure.

Forgive me.

2011-08-14T21:27:00.000-07:00

Forgive my absence! I was in the magical city of Chicago last week and am still recovering/getting my life together/ unpacking.

I ate a ton of good food, got some much needed rest, and walked an incredible amount.

Love.

Families.

2011-07-20T16:00:00.000-07:00

Family is so important to me. Memories are so critical at every stage. I am so grateful I got to capture some of those for this beautiful family. Thanks to the A fam for being so gracious and welcoming me into their home!

Love.

Miracles.

2011-07-05T13:17:00.000-07:00

Maternity/family shoot with the Calderas.

This mother here, is watching her husband and two year old pick her flowers. Even though her face is not completely seen, you can feel the love emanating from her with one glance. I'm so grateful that I got to spend the afternoon with this happy family of (soon to be) 4! Baby boy Caldera is days away!

Sundays.

2011-07-03T22:44:00.001-07:00

Sunday evenings are reserved for drinking irresponsible amounts of tea, taking long walks with Mr. Puppy, and reading books into the deepest corners of the night.

Love.

We'll call her sunshine.

2011-07-02T18:19:00.000-07:00

I give kudos to all of you who are parents. I had such an adventure with my little friend "Sunshine" (I don't like using real names). She was an absolute doll, and let me tell you she's smart, intuitive, and she's got a spicy personality.

One thing I have learned about children in the last few years is that if you let them, they can teach you so much more than you can teach them. What an honor it is to have someone trust you with their child. Even more so, how exciting is it to be able to make an imprint on them? Whether it is by letting their imaginations take them wherever it is that they want to go or simply letting them get dirty because it's just something every kid should experience. Kids will always be my favorite.

So, after a day of messy arts and crafts, running around in the sprinklers and sunshine, chasing the dog, letting the dog chase us, eating popsicles, dancing in the house, and finding missing socks-- I was dead tired, but so lit up inside.

We had pasta for lunch. I guess my kids faces will always be like this because for the life of me, I can never remember to wipe their mouths after they're done eating. Sheesh.

You better believe I ran through those sprinklers with her, too. She didn't really give me a choice and she was sick of me hanging on to my camera. Self-timer is a God send.

Being present.

2011-07-02T17:56:00.000-07:00

Memories make my heart stir. They allow me to experience old feelings again, and also to remember what one was.

I have learned that I need to work on being in the moment as much as I can. Life goes by so fast, and sometimes it ends abruptly. People that I know have lost people in their lives suddenly in the last month and it is a constant reminder to me that we can never take anything for granted.

For me, connecting with the ones I love over food is such a powerful thing. I love to host, I love to cook, I love to entertain and I love to sit down around a table of food and just share pieces of my life with the people whom I adore.

Recipe to follow!

Summer Pasta Recipe

Pasta:

Spaghetti Noodles

4-7 pieces of asparagus

1 green onion

a few sprigs of fresh Italian Parsley

Sauce:

1 tblsp Butter

1 1/2 tblsp Olive Oil

3-4 cloves of Garlic

2 pinches of dried Rosemary

A few dashes of cheap white wine (yes. cheap.)

In a saucepan over medium heat melt butter and combine olive oil and heat for 1 minute. Add garlic and sautee until garlic turns a slight golden color. Add rosemary, and white wine and let simmer for 2-4 minutes. Watch it though, it can burn easily if you fire is too high.

I diced my asparagus, and poured olive oil and a few dashes of sea salt on top of it. When my pasta was done, I drained it, tossed it with my sauce and topped it with my asparagus, green onions, italian parsley, and a bit of grated reggiano cheese.

Bon Apetit.

Pregnant Soup.

2011-06-28T10:50:00.000-07:00

I really, really, really enjoy cooking. What makes it so special to me is that you don't always have to follow recipes. The fun is making up something that is completely your own.

A good friend of mine is pregnant, and was suffering from a really bad head cold, so I decided to make her a pot of soup to open up her sinuses and warm up the baby belly!

After everything was in the pot, I realized just how much soup there was going to be. So, I decided to call it "Pregnant Soup" (pun definitely intended). If you can't figure out the recipe from the pictures, there really isn't one that I can write up for you. I don't measure, I don't count, I just chop it up and throw it in. I pinch salts, and season freely. Apologies!

Love, from my kitchen to yours.

Space.

2011-06-27T09:11:00.000-07:00

This being one of the last summers I may ever have off of work and school simultaneously has left me confused due to a lack of routine and most times: simply elated. I've caught up on a lot of my lost sleep and since he is a copycat (erm.. dog), so has this little guy.

My project for the summer is to purge all of the unnecessary clutter in my apartment. I remember my Mom telling me that her father would always remind her of a quote he loved "Everything you have in your home should possess beauty, or be useful". As I look around my apartment, there are some things that speak about who I am, what I love, and what keeps me balanced.

Other things here are beginning to just take up space.

My project before I travel for a bit is to get rid of it. Whether it's donating it, purging, trashing... I really don't mind where it goes. It just has to get out of here! I'd like to start tomorrow, but I need one day to procrastinate.

Love.

Full circle.

2011-06-26T09:39:00.000-07:00

I have reached a point in my life that I have literally dreamed up. I am halfway through graduate school, living on my own, taking care of a dog on my own, growing a photography business, a summer that promises new adventures/places/people, and the contentment of being a single woman in her early twenties.

Life has nothing but wonderful things to offer me. Love has been good to me, and God is amazing.

But when it throws it's curve balls, it can be an arduous journey. Even so, little things like this blog, the people in my life, and chocolate (oh, sweet loving chocolate) make it all better.

The beginnings of a crock pot miracle.

Love.

Flavors and Fullness.

2011-06-25T07:02:00.000-07:00

My trip back home to LA for a week was much needed. It was therapeutic, refreshing, and chalk full of food.

One place in particular really nestled its way into my heart. Flavor of India in West Hollywood is a hidden gem. The food was lovely, but the decor took me into a different place. When you walk in, it looks like your typical restaurant: tables, chairs, what not.

I followed my friend towards a small table in the corner next to a fountain, but as we walked further in, flashes of color and natural light nudged my periphery. I looked to my left, gasped and asked her if we could sit over there instead. We settled down into a cozy little corner, and instantly I felt my spirit begin to lift.

It's things like this that you cannot take for granted. These seemingly "little" things play such a huge role in the shifting of our moods, minds, and states of being. It's moments like these where I thank God that I remember to bring my camera with me. I didn't do any editing or use flash on these photos. The light in this place was absolutely breath taking.

Flavor of India, thank you for your wholesome food and your wholesome space.

Love.

Keeping It s i m p l e.

2011-06-24T17:48:00.000-07:00

These are a few of my favorite things.

Spent the weekend using these babies to make my taste buds scream in delight.

Life should be like food, simple.

Love.

Graduations!

2011-06-09T23:57:00.000-07:00

This boy here, we'll just call him "A". He's such a sweet, well mannered young man who graduated from eighth grade today! To celebrate, we took some graduation pictures.

Congrats A! Keep going!

Love.

Get a move on...

2011-05-23T08:48:00.000-07:00

Mornings are always a struggle for me. My bed is extremely comfortable, my dog is so cute when he sleeps, and the last thing I want to do is disrupt those wonderful moments with hustle and bustle.

So, on mornings like this where it is gloomy and crisp outside- I jump at the opportunity to relish in these rare actual weather ridden days. Southern California is pretty boring when it comes to changes in seasons... you don't really notice it.

Here's to a good day.

Love.

Breakfast= Be Fast.

2011-05-21T09:58:00.000-07:00

Breakfast is hands down my favorite meal of the day. It's the most important, you can eat it anytime, and you can bring elements from lunch, snack time, and dinner to it. I challenge you to disagree.

Be healthy my pretties. Love.

Alex is Graduated!

2011-05-14T21:16:00.000-07:00

A while back I shot Alex's graduation pictures. They were TONS of fun to show her, and yesterday was her big day. She graduated with a Masters degree at USC. Congratulations, girl!

Knock em' dead in New Orleans!

Changes.

2011-05-14T18:14:00.000-07:00

Keep on truckin.

Business has been busy, school has finally ended, and life is still in FULL swing.

Love.

Marissa and Mica

2011-05-09T20:49:00.000-07:00

What a wonderful Saturday morning spent with this lovely couple! Marissa was such a good sport with gloomy weather, and other random malfunctions. It made for an adventurous shoot. Best of luck to you two lovebirds!

Love.

Jessica and Remon

2011-05-08T08:15:00.000-07:00

What an experience this wedding was; the culture, the people, the dancing, and most importantly the love. J & R were a wonderful couple to work with!

Love

Excitement.

2011-05-06T13:13:00.000-07:00

I woke up this morning on the enthusiastic side of the bed and decided to ACTUALLY make my bed (yes, Mom... I did). With a bit too much pizazz, I threw the blanket up in the air and then, this happened.

This resorted in me laughing, and sleepily trying to get the stupid blanket off of the tac in my wall; without completely unraveling the twine word on my wall. I decided to leave it this way, and deal with it tonight when I get home. Happy Friday.

Love.

Love is in the airrrr!

2011-05-04T21:37:00.000-07:00

Shot a wedding this weekend, and the couple was absolutely BEAUTIFUL. Can't wait to share the pictures here in the next week! Stay tuned! :) Here's a sneak peak.

You can't see the bride and groom until they see their pictures.

So you'll have to wait for the really good stuff.

Love.

Me vs. the hill

2011-04-12T10:16:00.000-07:00

Imagine this.

You're at the bottom of a hill. If you lift your head to a 90 degree angle, your staring at the top of the hill, and your mission is to get to the top.

There is a hill that I like to take Howie for walks near in the morning. Sometimes I look at it and determine that I will get to the top, other days I walk to the right and go up the baby slope and call it a day.

Today was different. I had more time. I have the next four days off and day 1 was going to begin with giving Howie a long walk. He deserves it, I need it. So last night after my kickboxing class I came home and made two playlists: one for stretching and weights, and the other one for my cardio.

I turned the cardio playlist on and set out for our morning adventure. 10 minutes later I found myself at the bottom of the hill and relucatantly knew it was time for me to just do it. The music in my ear was all kinds of crazy, fast paced, pumping electronica and soon I found myself more than halfway up the hill, my legs moving basically without my brain telling them to along with my butt and thighs screaming bloody murder. Once I got to the top, I turned around to look down. I couldn't see the bottom!

Today started off so wonderfully. I'm going to lay on the couch and finish a little more of the book I'm currently reading "One Amazing Thing" and then I'm off to Pasadena to have lunch with a friend, when I get home I'll devote the rest of my day to cleaning the apartment before my trip tomorrow.

Keep it moving.

2011-04-10T20:00:00.000-07:00

It's been a while. As always. I've been promising myself that I need to get better at this. So, I have to start somewhere.

Today was better than I expected it to be.
After a lot of financial stress and feeling defeated, I had to do something that brought me to a place of peace.

First, I found lots of photography workshops to dive into in the next few months. I started looking for a summer side job at any bookstore (I need to be surrounded by something that makes me feel alive). The smell of books always sends a rush through my blood. It's an indescribable feeling that I get so much pleasure from. Those first moments that you venture into a bookstore are incredible. My eyes are everywhere. From this shelf to that shelf.

I read a little bit in bed. Howie slept next to me and I just got lost in a book. Something I haven't done in a very long time, and I have a week to do it. No school. Just me and a novel.

Then, my friend Alex and I decided to take our dogs to this grassy patch behind our apartment complex. We let them rome free, and chase each other. I told her to wear something outdoorsy because I needed to play around with lighting and just get my photography juices flowing. What happened was beautiful. I found it again. That joy. That feeling of confidence, inspiration, and stillness that I find when I'm behind a camera.

All of this is rambling. So I'll stop and leave you with these.

Love is all around us.

The reason why?

2011-03-25T22:48:00.000-07:00

I can't help but fall more and more in love with the nights that are so simple. Sleeping on the couch instead of my bed. Watching Gilmore Girls on DVD until I dose off into a deep sleep, and letting this one beat me to my spot after I make the couch all comfy.

Priceless I tell you.

La Vida Sigue (Life Goes On)

2011-02-06T21:42:00.000-08:00

It's been a while, but I have really, really missed this blog. I went back to the very first few entries and smiled because it was when I began to bloom into my authentic self. I've been so caught up in living.

In this moment of my life, I am so grateful and comfortable. I have one more year of school, and this time next year I will be searching for full time jobs in student affairs. My photography business has bloomed right before my eyes, and God has proved to be faithful by allowing a gift to become a passion and business.

Life is not perfect, in the slightest, but I can say that the struggles, wins, and losses are all a part of this beautiful mess that I am able to reflect on every morning.

If you're still visiting this blog, say hello, and know that I love you and your support.

Running

2011-01-08T08:49:00.000-08:00

When things happen to me that I feel like I can't handle, I run. Sometimes, I run and completely forget where I am. Being lost in my head can really take my focus away. Yesterday, my doctor gave me some news that startled me. Nothing that involves death, but definitely involves change.

So, after her news: I applied for my passport.

Life is too short.

I'm back!

2010-12-28T20:14:00.001-08:00

Lots of new pictures up above! Weddings and Lovebirds. Photography is picking up and TAKING OFF!

God is blessing me by making my dreams a reality, and I am speechless.

Love to you.

And I'm off...

2010-11-19T21:20:00.000-08:00

Be back on Friday, with lots of goodies, surprises and fun videos.

I remember letting go...

2010-11-04T12:45:00.000-07:00

I remember going home a few months ago to visit my mom. It was an extremely gloomy day. After a few hours of hanging around and lounging, it began to rain outside. Hard. I listened to it intently waiting for something to bring me out of my rut. I didn't know it at the time, but I was about to simply, let go. 

I got up from the couch determined to make myself feel better. I looked at my mom and said, "I'm going to play in the rain."

She looked at me, and our heart connection began to come alive.

 "Do it." she said. 

I didn't even wait to put on my shoes. I walked out of our front door, and down the stairs and stepped out onto the walkway. The first few drops hit me, and my spirit began to pitter-patter. I smelled asphalt. Wet asphalt that was freshly kissed by the rain that was being sent down from heaven. 

In that moment I began to twirl around. I accepted the rain for all of it's goodness, nourishment and began to run. My mother watched me outside of the living room window and yelled down to me. "RUN! Run from there to there!" She pointed from one end of the walkway to the street. I accepted her challenge and began to bolt. My spirit began to dance. 

In that short five minutes of playing in the rain, I remember simply, letting go.

I have to remind myself of those days where I feel all wound up, and tight. I have to let go, and let my spirit be the guiding force of my heart. I love my life. I am so in love with the people, the places, and the ideas that drive and move me. I am awake and I am present. I am liberated, I am grounded, and my spirit is leading me into directions that my mind cannot even conceive. 

I am in love with this beautiful place that I am in.

Life, lately...

2010-10-24T21:17:00.000-07:00

"Love is a temporary madness. It erupts like an earthquake and then subsides. And when it subsides you have to make a decision. You have to work out whether your roots have become so entwined together that it is inconceivable that you should ever part. Because this is what love is. Love is not breathlessness, it is not excitement, it is not the promulgation of promises of eternal passion. That is just being "in love" which any of us can convince ourselves we are. Love itself is what is left over when being in love has burned away, and this is both an art and a fortunate accident. Your mother and I had it, we had roots that grew towards each other underground, and when all the pretty blossom had fallen from our branches we found that we were one tree and not two."
-St. Augustine

I promise...

2010-10-03T23:12:00.000-07:00

...to dedicate my life to telling the stories of people from the other side of the lens.

The calm.

2010-09-30T21:47:00.000-07:00

Amidst all of the chaos in life: starting grad school, good changes at work, photography business growing, a wonderful rambunctious pup, intense self reflection, a full apartment, and long days-- I've been able to enjoy those quiet moments that just scream rest and relaxation.

I am so fortunate. I am so... fortunate.

I cannot say that enough, or realize it's fullness but I CAN thank God for his provision. I am living in one of the most exciting times of my life, and am hanging on for dear life. September proved to be a month of painful growth, and raw emotion. Somehow, I made it through and I made a clean getaway. October is less than three hours away and here I am, writing to my hearts content.

I always remember that I have this blog, Howie (pup), and my books to capture me when I feel life tossing me around like a rag doll. So, to my fellow bloggers, and readers: hang in there. I love you.

Love.

Stay rooted in goodness my friends.

22.

2010-09-20T08:12:00.000-07:00

How could you wake up to this face, and not have a perfect birthday morning?

Thanking God for a 22nd year, fresh opportunities, wonderful people in my life who know me to the depths of my core, a loving family, a great school, a fantastic job, a precious apartment, and a blessed day. Happy birthday to me. :)

Love.

Epic Weekend Pt. 2!

2010-09-19T20:01:00.000-07:00

Day 3:

Today was the day we would explore the forest. The guys got a lesson on riding dirt bikes, and my friend taught me how to ride a quad. What a rush! We set out on a few different trails and went about 20 miles into the forest. The dirt was a bright red color and it literally sparkled when the sun hit it. We had two quads, and two dirt bikes and rode into the forest like a pack. We stopped here and there to enjoy the scenery and switch drivers. We crossed a mountain lion at a trail, and encountered other wild life while we were there.

The death trap we took off roading.

The thrill of riding thirty MPH through a trail on something that has four wheels and has no doors or seatbelts is indescribable. After a couple of hours of riding into the thick of it, we came home and explored an abandoned house and had dinner.

We weren’t done yet.

When night fell, we decided to go on a night ride through the same trails but in a Jeep (faulty and scary because it was subject to break down at any moment). We crammed our bodies into the small space, and set off into the night. We had a couple of scares, freak outs, and hilarious moments and again I remembered to center myself and find the enjoyment in doing something I had never done before with people I had been friends with since my teens.

The creek we walked through and up for about 20 minutes.

The aftermath.

Love.

Labor Day Weekend Pt. 1

2010-09-10T22:22:00.000-07:00

Day 1:

We loaded up the cars and headed up north. It was a LONG 10 hour drive but we made it happen with a little teamwork, food, and a cute old dog named Archie. We made it there at about midnight, ate breakfast for dinner, and went to sleep.

Day 2:

Woke up, had breakfast, and headed out for Shasta Lake for a day of wake boarding, water skiing, tubing, and cruising. The lake was really refreshing, and it was definitely the perfect day to be in the water!

We launched out with 8 people and four dogs on the boat. My favorite part about being in nature is the fact that it is so simple. It gives so much, and all we have to do is return the goodness. Amidst all of the business that was going on, I had a few opportunities to be in the moment and just drink in the goodness: the sun hitting my face, the water spraying on my back, the feeling of being wind blown. It was all such a wake up call to me. There is goodness in everything, and in every moment. You must find the energy and the time to always center yourself in the instant you are in because they are priceless, and rarely happen in the same way ever again.

Rogue and Bella, 7 months

Sunset on the the lake

In between riding the tube and stuffing my face.

After this, my friends boyfriend fell off of his water ski's and clipped his forehead. We all laughed at his wipe-out but were soon horrified to see the blood on his face. We thought he would have had to get stitched up, but we made it work and were able to continue our day... constantly making fun of him for busting his face.

Day 3, tomorrow!

Love.

Next chapter...

2010-09-08T07:32:00.000-07:00

Graduate school starts... today.

Eeeek.

Love.

Far away...

2010-09-02T10:56:00.000-07:00

I've never been one to celebrate Labor Day weekend, but this year is different! I'm going up to Redding with an old bestie from high school, and spending time at Lake Shasta on the boat and with her (my) family.

I can't wait! It's going to be an opportune time for pictures, eating copious amounts of food, and just laying around and having fun. So my beauties and handsomes, have a wonderful labor day weekend. I'm off for a few days.

Simple satisfaction...

2010-08-26T23:37:00.000-07:00

Simple things that turn it all around:

.a snoring dog
.a memory that instantly brings forth a giggle
.the perfect lighting
.a hot bath
.a shared meal
.bare feet
.fresh herbs
.cold water

Love.

San Francisco, CA
7.2010

Tum tee tum..

2010-08-25T22:19:00.000-07:00

Short(ened) list of things to do before December is over...

.learn 5-10 new recipes
.read 8 more books
.stay consistent with my school work
.walk Howie everyday
.do yoga every week day
.plant, grow, and maintain an indoor herb garden
.take more pictures
.road trip
.journal consistently
.blog regularly

Love.

Seattle, Washington
05.2010

That's my funday.

2010-08-22T07:21:00.000-07:00

I adore chocolate... adore it.

But I realize that sugar is my worst enemy. Today I went to one of my favorite bakeries in Manhattan Beach, Susie Cakes. I had a double chocolate cupcake and as soon as I was halfway through it, my stomach began to have a meltdown and I instantly began to feel sleepy. It wasn't soon after that I (finished the cupcake) and began to complain to my Mom that I am so mad that my body just can't handle it. Although I am grateful, it makes it difficult for me to indulge in the things that I enjoy, like said cupcake.

All this to say... I am grateful that my body is a sugar hater, because it will help me in the long run. Although with my birthday around the corner, I would hate to pass out in front of all of my dinner guests... so we'll see.

Love.

Breezy knees.

2010-08-20T20:55:00.000-07:00

I sat cross legged in my old bedroom today, with the windows open, the dog on the bed, and the curtains coming to life with the wind trailing and pushing behind them. In that moment I felt infinite... I felt like nothing could touch me, and I felt my spirit slowly begin to come to life in a new way.

It's those moments where I pause, breath in, and begin to pray... for more moments like that.

Love.

Lopez Island, Washington

June, 09'.

So sorry...

2010-08-17T15:44:00.001-07:00

So sorry I have not written.

I was dealing with the most disgusting bout of food poisoning, and then work started yesterday. I'm working on a post for you lovelies for tomorrow.

See you soon. :)

Smells

2010-08-12T07:21:00.000-07:00

The upcoming shift in the season is so promising! It reminds me of the impending wardrobe change, time spent indoors with loved ones and four legged trouble makers, and more pictures...

Fall promises:

.tea leaves

.pavement wet with fresh rain

.sweaters that have been hiding in the closet

.freshly lit matches

.puppy breath

.bookstores

.the gym

.garlic

.fresh lavender

.chocolate baking in the oven

.fresh cut grass

.mint

.baby feet

.candles

.curry

.vanilla bean

San Francisco, CA
7.2010

Thrift Store
Santa Cruz, CA
7.2010

Love.

Real Simple...

2010-08-11T09:22:00.000-07:00

I have loved Real Simple magazine since I found it on my moms coffee table several years ago. I subscribed to it and all through my undergrad experience in college where I found some helpful ideas about saving money, saving food, creating with old objects, and just living a life that is inspired. Here are some of my favorite articles they have put out there.

-I am a huge fan of organizing and figuring out the best way to utilize the storage in my apartment. My favorite one includes organizing your jewelry... as I have, well... copious amounts of necklaces.

-One of my favorite things to do, ever is find my energy in things other than coffee. Sleep is not always available with the type of work that I do. So I appreciate the writers who make articles like this.

-Any question you probably ever asked about cooking (for beginners and intermediate) would most likely be answered here.

-Okay, face it... you have always wondered if it was okay to wear that something twice in a row. This article explains the rules.

-This speaks for itself. Who doesn't like decorating?!

I hope you enjoy these as much as me. Ciao.

Love.

Bedroom of a dear friend in San Francisco
July, 2010

Lomo...

2010-08-10T22:58:00.000-07:00

After cleaning out my bedroom at my mothers house with 3 years of accumulated CRAP, I found my fisheye camera...

Let the games begin my darlings.

Love.

En la ciudad...

2010-08-10T09:30:00.000-07:00

I'm back home at my moms visiting for the next few days, and for the past two mornings I've taken puppsy out for walks on familiar streets chalk full of memories.

I passed one fence today that had a "Beware of Dog" sign and I laughed to myself as I thought about being 11 years old walking home from school on that same street with friends, minding our own business and as we passed that fence, the dog would burst into a fit! We always forgot that the dog was there, and we would scream and take off running sometimes dropping backpacks, glasses, and tragically ice creams... other times we simply just abandoned each other and parted ways onto different street corners.

It made me think about all of those special friends that I shared those walks home with, or those adventures onto the "other side" of the neighborhood when we knew we shouldn't go there. I'm enjoying these morning walks, and these memory jerkers.

Onto other news! Grad school starts in less than a month! I was not excited at all, about a month ago... but I am more excited today than I was yesterday. Let's hope this snowballs.

Head over to Aurajoon's blog. You're in for a treat. :)

Love.

To start a day with love.

2010-08-09T12:03:00.000-07:00

Woke up this morning and puppsy was laying next to me with his head propped up on the back of my calf. We slept like that for two more hours, and I woke up soon after with a heart full and ready to spill over from that simple gesture of trust.

Love.

Peace.

2010-08-04T12:25:00.000-07:00

Having this summer off of work has been a blessing, and not one in disguise. It gave me the opportunity to fall into a routine with Howie (the buddy), and also learn more about balance. It's been so peaceful, and as it comes to an end, I'm confident that I can carry this over when school starts, and when my grad school program starts shortly after work begins again.

I had dinner at my Pastors house last night, and something he said stuck with me "There has to be a balance." That would have to be the theme of my summer. Balance. I've seen the benefits that I have reaped from staying in a steady routine with the buddy, and how less stressed I am when I know what exactly it is I have to do.

There is something so settling about making the extra effort to be on top of things, but giving in to allow spontaneous surprises. :) I miss my family, I miss traveling, and I miss reading. So, with the little bit of summer I have left, I will drown myself in those three things.

Love.

Grounded.

2010-07-19T23:37:00.000-07:00

What exactly do you stand for?

What significant events in your life have brought you to your beliefs, your fears, and your motivations?

Who will you allow into your mind, and who do you decide does not belong?

I spent one magical day in San Francisco with some old friends who live there now. In each of my encounters with them, I realized that I love who I am and I have to remember to surround myself with people who bring that feeling out of me. I realize that the past really is important, and it is something you should carry with you to remember why you are who you are, and just how much you really matter.

I believe that people deserve to have those quiet moments to themselves when they really ask themselves: Who am I? Not physical characteristics, but the real stuff: spirituality. What feeds your soul? What makes you calm? What balances you?

I love these moments of self revelation where you are taken care of in every sense. Keep feeding yourself those moments, and get fat. Surround yourself with goodness!

Love.

For the record...

2010-07-02T23:41:00.000-07:00

Looking back on a particular experience I had, was not your typical. It involved writing letters back and forth, sometimes solely as a means of communication. It taught me very sweet, painful lessons:

-Cherish the art of taking your time to do something. It was always a hassle to not type out the letter, but to let my brain function at the same pace as my hand. Something about that relationship between two functioning parts of my body allowed me to fully express myself in depth, words, and in my heart.

-Savor memories (sour and sweet). There is something about communicating with someone through old fashioned hand written letters that never leaves you, no matter how much you want to forget about it. Regardless of what happens after the letter writing ceases, do not push those memories to the fire.

Although said experience is pushed deep into my memories and kept away from the light of my mind, I choose to embrace that experience with my whole heart and can recount these things when I am feeling nostalgic, or perplexed as to why my heart strings were touched the way they were tonight when I watched a movie about two people, sharing their experiences through the same medium: letter writing.

Love.

Side note: I apologize that this blog is not about one specific thing, but I thank you and invite you to continue sharing my life experiences with me, as they come and go. I appreciate you all more than you know. :)

Walking your dog... Pt. 1

2010-06-21T08:18:00.000-07:00

1. Don't forget the poop bag.
2. Those birds over there...yeah- those. In about two seconds will be flying in a mass frenzy as your white fluff ball with four legs scampers after them.
3. Yes, you just tripped over your dog in the middle of the crosswalk.
4. Sometimes it's okay to let him get stuck in a bush. Nosy.
5. Don't forget the poop bag.
6. Leash training is a lot harder than "It's Me or the Dog" makes it look.
7. The world is 500x bigger to them, and smells 1000x more intense.
8. He just wants to play.
9. Don't forget the poop bag.

Appreciation...

2010-06-10T22:39:00.000-07:00

I appreciate...

+kindness
+truth
+love
+nurturing
+good, healthy food
+fresh water
+hot tea
+good books
+long drawn out days of doing nothing
+airplane rides
+packing a bag
+big pillows
+happy people
+this blog

I've been able to be so in tune with my feelings and channel it through this blog. Such an awesome reward. Thank you, for reading. :)

I graduate from college in two days. Five years of hard work, some long nights, wonderful spontaneous days, a solid group of good friends, good lessons. Best five years of my life. Hands down.

Lopez Island, 2008.

What's next?

Success.

2010-06-09T22:26:00.000-07:00

If you've ever had those moments of challenge where you feel like the only way to get through the hardship of it is to explode and let yourself have a fit... don't indulge.

It doesn't make things better, it only lets the issue seep deeper into your core. I love life and (sometimes) I like the challenges that I am faced with at times. It is not easy to face what you have never been forced to face before in life sometimes, but with that comes wisdom and experience.

Allow yourself to experience something challenging and see what levels you can take yourself to through that triumph.

My challenge?

Training a dog.

Love.

Drenched.

2010-06-07T22:42:00.000-07:00

I love drenching myself in memories. Sometimes it feels like it's the only way I can get a handle on the craziness of every day life, because in reality that's just life... crazy, wild, unpredictable, unfair, ugly, beautiful, peaceful, harsh, tiring, draining, sad, lovely. It's just one big THING. Why not let memories soften the blow for you?

Today was wonderful in every sense of the word. I let music take me back to the safest place I've ever known.... and now, I just want to hug my mom- for a really long time.

The new man in my life.

Howie, the rescue dog.

With a SERIOUS underbite.

And a nasty case of kennel cough.

Love muffin.

Lazy Sunday...

2010-06-06T14:41:00.000-07:00

I love Sundays.

They are so restful, and always just what I need before I start my week at work. It's a startling 91 degrees outside and I'm avoiding going out at all costs. Unless it's to take this one to the bathroom...

Here's to a lazy day.

Morning time.

2010-06-01T08:27:00.000-07:00

What do you do in the morning?

I make sure that I wake up at least half an hour early than I need to, so I can sit here:

It may not look like much, but to me I've struck gold. It's perfect. The colors, the light, everything. I drink my morning tea here, read my magazines here, exhale here, laugh here, and prepare for my day. Preferably on the big couch. Sorry I didn't clean up for you. :)

Some mornings, my little friend Mr. Squirrel will come and hang out right outside the window while he eats breakfast. I make sure not to disturb him, otherwise I get the evil eye and he scampers up the tree right out front.

At night, it's completely different... but it is still my favorite space in my apartment. I light candles, turn on music and journal, eat, talk to my mom on the phone... or just get lost in my thoughts.

My little nest. I'm off to work. :) Where do you decompress in your home?

Find your life treasures...

2010-05-31T21:47:00.000-07:00

So content with the simple things in life like:

-Opening the curtains to let the light in
-Lighting a candle or two
-Realizing that the single life is such a sweet, temporary gift
-Making my first batch of oatmeal chocolate chip cookies from scratch
-Snuggling into the couch with a soft blanket
-Reading a book until my eyes close against my will
-Driving into the sunset
-Making tea
-Laying on the beach and letting the heat from the sun devour my shoulders
-Smiling, just because I can.

I am so in love with life right now.

Deception Pass

2008

Love.

Made to love.

2010-05-25T21:59:00.000-07:00

We were all put on this earth to exist together, suffer together, and love together.

What's wrong?

Where have we lost connection?

Challenge yourself to step outside of YOU, and give love.

Washington

2010-05-23T15:01:00.000-07:00

Here's the trick, you go somewhere that stirs your spirit up. Those feelings that you get when your imagination starts to run, and all you want to do is chase it. You find a place that makes you crave contemplation and then when it all starts to boil up you write, and you keep writing, and you write some more.

This is the trick to a full well, in your soul. Fill er' up.

Seattle

2010-05-21T09:27:00.000-07:00

You know that feeling you get when you travel somewhere and you think to yourself "I could live here..." or "This feels like such a great place to be."

What happens when you get that feeling of "I belong here." I am seriously blown away. I've been to Seattle numerous times before while visiting family, but this time felt so different. It just feels like something is drawing me here. I have two years left in California with my Masters program, and after that I'm allowed to do what I want.

I deserve to live here. I've worked SO hard, what could stop me? This city will be mine!

Sorry for the crappy quality. I'm limited to pictures taken on my photo booth because I don't have my transfer cord for my camera.

Love.
From Seattle.

Away I go...

2010-05-18T19:06:00.000-07:00

Bags are packed and I'm off to Bellingham, Washington tomorrow morning to get some lovin' from my Grandma, and some home cooked meals.

I can't wait to just lay around the house, and listen to the rain fall down. Should make for some great blogging. I won't have much internet access but I'll draft up some blog entries and pop em' out (cause that's all I'm poppin' out at this age) as soon as I get home. Prepare yoursel ffor camera overload honeys!

Home is wherever I'm with you...

2010-05-14T22:12:00.000-07:00

I'm back home... but only for a moment.

Smelling the familiar smells, hearing the comforting sounds of walls creaking at night. I always get flashbacks of the days when I was in high school and I would lay on my bed in the dark and just soak in the feeling of never being able to get out of this apartment. Now that I'm out, all I want is to come back in.

Life transitions can be such a scary thing, especially when everything is going just how you want it to go. Weird? Yes.

I'm on a hunt for an old diary. Then this reminiscing will feel just right.

Morning.

2010-05-07T21:46:00.000-07:00

I woke up this morning in my new apartment, and I finally felt like things would start to be okay. There was such a bad energy in that old apartment, and it was consuming me.

I opened my curtains, and let the light flood in. I watched the wind make the tree shadows dance across my living room floor, and I sunk into my couch and finally let go of everything I'd been carrying.

Change is such a difficult thing when you resist it. It's something that is so vital to humankind, and in our personal lives that when avoided, we go stagnant and begin to lose the sparkle and the gift that we are all born with.

I'm nothing but content in this moment.

True story...

2010-04-29T07:57:00.000-07:00

If you want something ENOUGH, it will come to you. Promise.

Love.

Whimsy.

2010-04-27T19:13:00.000-07:00

Have not felt like myself.

I'm going to get it back though. Just have to figure out where I fit into all of this, and if I even fit in. Ya know? Life is still good though, regardless of all the crap. God is still good. Friends are still true. Love is still wonderful. Life is still good. I've just got that urge to pick up and go again... and it's getting harder to stifle.

Our actions are such a funny thing. How we treat people, the things we choose to do that inadvertently lead to another consequence that could within a second, change our lives. Be true to yourself, and be good to others. Life is too short.

Love.

Be rid of it...

2010-04-19T08:34:00.000-07:00

I'm kind of in the mood to rip all of the clothes out of my closet and seriously, give them away. Not just "Oh I'll wear that one day..." but "I haven't worn this in three months... it seriously has to go." Then I will save my money, about 400 dollars, and go on a shopping spree and re-invent my wardrobe!

Right.
Not.

My mother always says to add pieces as the time goes by. I have no patience for that. The end.

Love.

Connected.

2010-04-10T10:17:00.000-07:00

No picture today. I'm having one of those "I hate everything I've ever shot" days. Sorry.

A night in with the girls last night. It was just what I needed. Some candlelight, music, got the oven going, pots boiling, and conversation flowing. I do not take these moments for granted, because in these small gaps of time you really see the power of friendship and support. So cheers, to all my lovely friends [male & female] who make those moments for me so divine.

Who do you need to thank today? Who does more for you than they should, without even doing anything really at all? Who makes you smile when you hear their voice? Who can read your mind just by looking at you for a split second? Show your gratitude. Give them some appreciation.

Love.

Let the sunshine in.

2010-04-03T10:15:00.000-07:00

Self Portraits.

Happy Saturday!

Love.

You've got pollen on your nose.

2010-04-02T23:28:00.000-07:00

There seems to be an influx of pollen. My once greenish-blue car is now a shade of yellow. I refuse to wash it, because I want to see how ugly it gets. :)

Life is so goodtoughsadlovelyblissfulbeautifulhappyjoyfulfullmeaningfulmysterious. I just can't contain myself! Things have just been steady, which is more than I can ask for. I believe that things will begin to shift around soon, but until then I'm calm.

I'm enjoying a night in, of being a single, woman in her own apartment who is just enjoying a night alone. Music, heater, oranges and chile powder, pandora, and a new blog I discovered that is just delightful and light.

Love.

I will live here one day. Very soon. I can feel it.

It's just down the freeway, but

why spoil the surprise?

Dream weaving...

2010-03-30T23:25:00.000-07:00

Dreams are so mysterious! AH! My dreams literally scream messages to me that I try to avoid in my waking life. I find myself questioning how open I am with myself. Do you fully admit things to yourself or let them linger in your mind? Where do you stop processing, and start accepting things for what they are?

I finally got the chance to take some pictures this weekend, after I shot a series of friendship pictures for two really wonderful girls. I feel like I'm getting pieces of myself back through every photograph that I take. Is that odd? Psh, who cares. If it gets me going, I'm keeping it in my life.

I promise I will find something solid, and continual to write about in this blog. I love you for reading, I really do.

Love.

P.S. My bachelors degree is complete. I am officially done with my undergraduate degree. Oh, to be free!

Love is all ya need.

2010-03-28T07:13:00.000-07:00

So the trip to Sausalito was a bust. My mom got her tooth pulled in an emergency and we were stuck at home those three days, recovering. Well, she was, not me (of course I took care of her).

Anyway, I took my first set of engagement photos of a good friend Lindsay and her beau Randy. I'm so excited to show you all! I'm only going to put up a couple because I don't want to ruin the surprise for our friends at home, but I'm just so excited I can't contain myself.

My portfolio is starting to expand, ya'll!

Love.

I'm alive, for now.

2010-03-21T09:49:00.000-07:00

Taking a much needed vacation tomorrow with the Mother. We're headed to Sausalito, California for three days. Road trippin, scarf wearin', map readin' honeys on the way up North.
I'll have more pictures and you don't even know how excited myself, and my pointer finger are! Love you, lovelies.

Love.

The middle...

2010-03-08T20:21:00.000-08:00

There is something so beautiful in giving in, and finally letting someone love you and you them. It takes a lot of energy to hide from someone who you want so much, to just see who you are. There is nothing wrong with giving yourself permission to experience one of the most beautiful feelings God could have ever created.

Indulge. Endure. Learn.

Love.

Just want to say.

2010-03-03T22:22:00.000-08:00

I just want to say, I love seeing comments from new people. It pushes me to keep going with this. So thanks, newbies. :)

Remember who you are, remember your value, remember your truth. Find time to spend with yourself, and find time to breath.

Love.

Senior Project Video

2010-03-02T23:26:00.000-08:00

I'm getting back into my grove. This is my senior project iMovie that I made. All pictures by me.

Back the basics...

2010-02-27T10:30:00.000-08:00

New pictures coming soon. Coming out of this rut, I like to call emotions! :)

Love.

My soul waits...

2010-02-25T22:45:00.000-08:00

I understand that there are limits to what a person should do, and I understand that a person should already "know" what those limits are. What I do not understand is, why it is okay for people to think they can place limitations on others because they think it's right.

I was born with a fighting, stubborn spirit. I know that I was born with a spirit that, when challenged, will stand up and push back. I have always hated feeling restricted. I've always liked my freedom. This week has been one of the hardest I have ever experienced. I have never cried as much in one year, than I have in this last week.

What makes this even more jarring to me, is the fact that I have cried about different things each time. Not the same thing! What in the world? Why am I facing such opposition? I am a firm believer in God, and I know that right now he is putting me through the hottest fire I have ever experienced in my relationship with Him. I am being tested, stretched, pulled, and kneaded so intensely right now I feel like there's a point where I'm just going to scream "STOP!". I almost feel like I'm underwater and I'm fighting the current. The current being: forgiveness, love, compassion, justice, mistreatment, being ignored, negative energy, and ultimately, mankind.

Something inside of me is growing, and pressing outward. It's almost like the fierce woman inside is saying "Just a little bit longer. All of this has an end, and you will come out of it even brighter than before." The darkness eventually fades, but while you're in it, it captures EVERYTHING.

Let go, let flow.

2010-02-21T19:01:00.000-08:00

There is something extraordinary about tears. Their ability to heal, and to cleanse. The act of crying is something else entirely. I am a firm believer that it is imperative to cry when your body is urging you to. Suppressing it is like holding in a sickness.

I cried today, and I feel new.

Home.

2010-02-20T23:29:00.000-08:00

There is nothing like being back home. The place I spent most of my life in. I never thought it would be possible to have memory overload, but it is such a pleasant feeling.

I am back home for the weekend, and it just feels like my soul is resting. The familiar smells, the sounds of comfort, and the feeling of being back where I belong recharges me so much. I appreciate having a getaway on the weekends, and I love rummaging through old memories in my closet. Whether it's rummaging through boxes with old letters from old "loves", journals that have been buried with the hopes of never finding them again, or just laying in a bed and staring at the same spot on a wall that I did 5 years ago wondering when "life would begin". It makes me feel like it's possible to start dreaming again. It heals fresh wounds that I get when I push myself out into the present, and it helps me to cope with the ever changing pace of this life I live.

I love coming back home. Even if it's for the weekend.

And I love watching my Mom snore in her bed. That sound will ALWAYS be comforting and safe.

Flying the coup?

2010-02-15T21:15:00.000-08:00

I had the opportunity to make a video for my senior project class detailing my experience as a Liberal Studies student. In creating this, I became so happy, and proud of the life that I have lived. I truly believe that I have had some amazing experiences in these short 21 years. I've gone places, seen people, heard things, and loved so, so much. In less than 4 months I will have a bachelors degree. A piece of paper that says I've put in the work, and the money to call myself a scholar in a certain area of study. But, I feel like I'm ready to do more than that. I almost feel inclined to just go away. Aren't you supposed to plant yourself after you get a degree? Meet someone? Start a life? Put down roots?

There's so much more to this! Why do I feel like I am the only one who sees it? These restless feelings are like jumping beans in my soul. Stop it. Stop it now. You are dangerous.

Rumble-bumble.

2010-02-08T19:41:00.001-08:00

I've never had to make a decision that involved more than just me and my happiness, but today I did. I gave Rumble back to the rescue shelter that I got her from, and it was incredibly hard and emotional. I've only had her less than two weeks, but I grew so attached to her and judging from the way her butt would swing wildly with her tail when I walked into the room, I feel like she was starting to bond to me as well.

However, I just didn't have the time for her and it was not fair on her part to sit at home while I worked, and went to school, and did my ministry stuff on top of that as well. I made the decision for her, and as sad as I was, I was so happy when I left her because I knew that she was going to get adopted into a loving, beautiful family that would do nothing but love her for the funny, rambunctious little baby girl that she is.

Life can be so full of struggle and pain, but sometimes beauty is born out of that. Right now, I feel like my heart was transformed to another level. I loved something, and I took care of her and even though it was a short period of time I feel so full of light and joy.

Love you Rumble.

Woman's best friend...

2010-02-03T09:54:00.000-08:00

I have a new little baby girl in my life! She's warm, fuzzy, whiskery, curious, clumsy, and super cuddly. She is currently sun bathing in my lap right now as I write this. Ladies and gents, meet: Rumble aka Professor Rumbledore, Rumble-bee, Rumblina, or Rummy.

I rescued her this Saturday from a shelter and we bonded immediately on the car ride home. She's everything that I was looking for and she's such a baby. She's 3 months old, and I've already tried to get a leg up on her training which is going well. I have felt overwhelmed for the past couple of days because this is such a drastic change in my life, but in the end every night when we go to bed, and she looks at my from her crate, I remember why I wanted a dog and why I wanted to rescue.

Home alone!

2010-01-28T08:46:00.000-08:00

There are some things that I can definitely appreciate about living on my own, and other things I would prefer not to have to deal with like a roommate who insists on leaving skillets in the sink for weeks, or someone who just cannot close the door with rattling the windows and walls.

The Yays:
1. I can eat dinner sitting on the counter... in my nightie and socks.
2. The music volume has no limits.
3. Walking around in underwear is never an offensive issue.
4. I can watch TV and cry if I want too without wiping my eyes super fast because someone walked in the room.
5. You did not just see me drink out of the soy milk carton that I bought. (This one is for you Mom).
6. "Morning Ugly".... enough said.
7. No one's boyfriend will catch me walking in my towel, or vice versa...

The Nays:
1. I can go a whole day without talking.
2. That bump in the night was not me...
3. The laundry will not do itself, and it will sit hidden in the machine for days until I go looking for my favorite black shirt. Surprise!
4. It's my turn to clean the toilet, every time.
5. You bought that broccoli, so YOU eat it.
6. You are the only one to blame for the decorating, or random piece of underwear on the floor when guests come over unexpectedly.
7. All this stuff? Yeah all of it, is yours!

Lopez Island, Washington

June, 2009

Okay... THIS is exciting.

2010-01-22T09:55:00.000-08:00

The lovely Dina over at Causerie awarded me and four other wonderful bloggers for the Kreativ Blogger award. Upon viewing other blogs for the past week or so, I saw other people giving it out to their favorite bloggers, and to my surprise I was on Dina's page. Check out her blog. Sometimes I feel like if my Mom had a blog, this would be it. It always makes me feel so good to read her funny stories, or her serious reflections. It's lovely!

The rules are: I have to tell you 5 random things about myself. Here we go:

1. I have a small obsession with aluminum water bottles. Going green can be a lot of pressure! But I indulge in buying decorative ones, or just plain ones which are now bursting out of my cabinet.

2. I'm getting a dog in the next couple of weeks!! I'm looking to rescue from the pound. I cannot wait! Look out for that post.

3. I have no problem going anywhere barefoot. My aunt jokes and calls me her little bohemian girl, my mother also likes to say that's why I have big feet.

4. I makes lists. A lot.

5. I have a really big head, which spurs lots of jokes in my family. Including my birth.

I'm going to nominate a few people for this Kreativ Blogger award. So if I do, copy the little picture at the top and write 5 facts about yourself, then pass it along! This is fun.

In no specific order:

Que Jimenez- one of the most creative Mom's I've ever had a chance to follow on a blog. She makes time for her children, her husband, and wonderfully, herself. She also has a lovely store on etsy!

Ecollustration- a friend from high school, her blog is all about making creative things with recycled goods. This is definitely something anyone on a budget, or with a knack for preserving can head over to for a bit of inspiration!

Natural Chica- interested in natural hair, products and the like? Head over here.

Think and Grow Chick- anyone in college, dealing with life and it's curve balls can relate to this intelligent young woman.

Seven-brights- a friend from my live journal days. Her blog has random style, life, and funny posts in it.

Side note:
PLEASE, if you're a reader of my blog: Say hello! I'd love to see your blog and connect with you!

Love.

Rambling... really. No structure.

2010-01-15T09:56:00.000-08:00

I've been reading "Walden" in my Senior Project class which is the last final class before I get my bachelors degree in Liberal Studies with a minor in Spanish. I've appreciated this program so much, because it wasn't a very narrow major. I found myself sitting in history classes wondering why the heck Napoleon was such a jerk, listened in as my Natural Disasters teacher tried to explain the difference between magma and lava (I still think it should just have one name...), and forced myself to wrap my mind around the idea of Arabian architecture in southern Spain.

I have appreciated all of the random classes I've had to take, all for the sake of calling myself "well-rounded" once I leave undergrad. The real question is, what will I do with my education after? I made a decision in my junior year of college to not only get my education, but to share it with others and allow them success where there is room for misfortune due to a lack of education. Sometimes I wake up in the morning cursing myself for signing up for 8 am classes (this quarter is my last one!), or wondering "What I'm doing here following the rules of society and getting a degree, instead of chasing my wild dreams and living in a mud hut somewhere in Costa Rica teaching kids how to read and write in Spanish." (I will some day, maybe without the mud hut).

I guess what I'm getting at is where do our dreams start to turn into just dreams, and our fears turn into our reality. How old will I be when I wake up one morning with a snoring person in my bed, a mortgage, and three screaming kids downstairs and look up at the ceiling, sigh, and say "I rushed into this?". I AM NOT saying anything bad about marriage and kids, because I can't wait for that and all of it's beauty, and warmth, but I feel like right now, I'm rushing myself into that. I feel like I'm trying to skip all the loneliness of being a single girl, in her early twenties, so I can get to the "good stuff."

THIS IS THE GOOD STUFF! Eating my dinner while I sit on MY kitchen counter, with my pajamas on, washing the dishes when I want to (even though I'm a neat freak it doesn't go longer than a day, but when I feel rebellious it's a day and a half), decorating however the heck I want because it's my own space, yadda, yadda. I guess I'm just falling into being comfortable living on my own right now, and throwing myself into projects (blogging, pen pals across the country, adopting a puppy, and sometimes finding time to shave my legs...). I'm human. I worry, but I'm fighting to never let the worry be what overshadows my spirit. I love this life of mine, but sometimes I have to remember not to let this time slip away. It's just too precious, and it belongs to me! Here's to my twenties.

Not to toot my my own horn, but I'm gonna anyway, because who's gonna love us if we don't love ourselves? I'm pretty freaking lovely.

Fulfilled?

2010-01-12T17:05:00.000-08:00

I always wonder what makes people feel "whole". What in this world could possibly make someone feel like they are all together, other than the love they have for themselves?Some chose to spend money to their hearts content, so that whatever void they have can be filled, others abuse drugs and alcohol, some abuse their loved ones, others find fulfillment in their god, while others find themselves wrapped up in a hobby or even another person.

Do we get so wrapped up in outside things, that we forget we have the ultimate power in making us feel whole with the love we have for ourselves? Do we replace it with things that are manufactured, produced, and ultimately destroyed to get that temporary feeling of being "complete"? I wonder...

What fills you up?

Can you say, souffle?

2010-01-07T18:03:00.000-08:00

I apologize, a thousand times over for not updating sooner. I've moved into a new apartment and am finally settled in. For the first few days I didn't have a desk, so I was checking e-mail at work, and on my computer that was on a bookshelf... hardly any motivation to update a blog.

My mom and I made chocolate souffle at the end of last month and I must say... we did a wonderful job.

Love.

California bound...

2009-12-29T02:01:00.001-08:00

I'm going back home today. On my way to the airport in the next few minutes. Being on airplanes really teaches me how to give up control. There's really nothing I can do when I'm on them, and the reality of being 30,000 feet in the air really sobers me up. Ta-ta.

Love.

Florida

2009-12-21T15:22:00.000-08:00

No picture update today because of the lack of my camera cord, my own laptop, and I'm on vacation. I'm in Tampa, Florida visiting my family. I'm mostly in my pajamas all day on the couch snuggling with a warm, giggle-ridden little niece or nephew, running from room to room on the hunt for a good tickle, or just watching a movie splayed out on the couch with a yummy cup of coffee by my side. I'm enjoying my break from reality, and in turn feeding the lull in inspiration that I was having. Taking pictures while I can, cooking as much as I can, and just being. Can't complain about that. I'll be home in 7 days.

Love

Artichokes.

2009-12-14T23:59:00.000-08:00

I've always wondered why photography felt so mysterious and sacred. The way it feels like a secret language sometimes, or how it can soothe an aching heart. What I find the most intriguing is wondering what the person behind the camera looks like. Or what they think about when they snap a picture. If their heart beats a little bit faster after they hear the shutter, or if they get lost in the elements peeking out on the other side of the lens in that quick, and divine moment. When the world pauses for a bit. I love it.

Santa Monica Farmers Market

Rain.

2009-12-11T11:13:00.001-08:00

The rain paid us a visit. It's supposed to stay for a couple more days, I'm hoping everyone drives safe and takes this time to relax. Use it as an excuse to do absolutely nothing.

Durham, NC

March, 2009

Donde van las palabras?

2009-12-08T00:01:00.000-08:00

I was having a conversation with a friend yesterday about the apathetic nature on our campus at Cal Poly, and in our student housing community that we live in. What happened? When did people stop caring? Why does passion and motivation seem to rise to a certain level, and then immediately drop when the work to be done is fully realized? What would this campus look like if more people stopped complaining, and started caring?

The wind is rumbling outside and it makes me feel. It churns up the rebel inside of me. The woman who doesn't want to shut up, and sit in the corner. The woman that has a heart for people that is so tender, it breaks constantly everyday when someone else is treated badly or unfairly. I need to move to a place where it's windy more often than here in So Cal, maybe that would change my attitude. People need to be touched. Lives need to be touched. We can't get anywhere unless we get there together.

Love.

Moments.

2009-12-04T00:45:00.001-08:00

Lopez Island, Washington State.

Best Summer Ever.

Love.

2009-12-01T00:39:00.000-08:00

I'm learning how to be still, and drink in my surroundings and blessings.