Memories // Rain in Ukraine

Ukraine has been on my mind lately, which led me to finally go through the many photos from last summers trip (again). One thing that I absolutely adore about the homeland is it's incredible weather. (Yes. The weather. I find it rather exciting. Haha.) The clouds, the sunsets, the rain... Let me tell you, there is absolutely nothing like a good ole summer afternoon thunderstorm in Ukraine. The dark clouds usually roll in faster than we could think to take the clothes in from drying on the clothesline. And when it rains, it pours. Usually here in CA, it'll sprinkle lightly, with occasional downpours. Not there. There, the heavens open up and 1.5minutes later, you are completely drenched.

One of my favorite memories from last summer's trip was walking to the river with friends, when, in an instant, it started pouring. We took cover under a tree, and ate it's berries, hoping that the downpour wouldn't last too long. After a few minutes, we decided to be young and restless, and danced in the rain on the nearby soccer field instead.

Thoughts // Love

What is love?

Is it romance? Just a chance? Is it chocolates in a pink and red box tied in a pretty ribbon?

Love is more then this. More than sentiment and selfish gain.

This is love: 

not that we loved God, but that 

He loved us and sent 

His son as an atoning 

sacrifice for our sins.

[1 John 4:10]

This is how I know what love is.

in the city.

Oh, dear. One of the besties is engaged and set to get married this summer! Which, of course, means that we must seize every opportunity for days out with the girls... :)

Reflections. How do I love thee.

No matter where we go or what we do, we always seem to end up in a coffee shop, contemplating on life and all things related.

Truly, the bestest friends I could ever ask for.

A lovely weekend, indeed.

Thoughts // Before I Blink

"Nothing is ordinary. 

Life is an endless series of little miracles. 

The difference between existing and living is noticing." 

Louie Giglio posted this on Facebook recently and it has been ringing through in my life since.

[I'm not sure why, but this beautiful 

photo, by the fabulous Jamie Delaine,

 immediately brought that quote to mind.]
 

My desire: to live in a constant state of "noticing." I want to be aware of God in my life daily.
I don't want to miss the very purpose of my life simply because I am too busy to truly see the greater story. I don't want to look back years from now and wish that I grew more, sought God's will more, done more with what I've been given.
Before I blink and life flies by... I want to live life noticing. 

Music // Gungor

I've been a fan of Gungor (former Michael Gungor Band) for years and was finally able to see them live this year... twice in one month. The first time was briefly at P2011 in Atlanta, when I was too tired to enjoy it, and then recently at a local church in my hometown.  It is really rare to find unique bands nowadays; a lot of them are decent, but it's rare to find something that stands out in performance and content. Gungor=deep, meaningful lyrics+unique and amazing musical pieces. Their expressions of worship inspires me. 

Below: With Lisa Gungor... What a beautiful voice. She makes me want to learn to play the xylophone.

...and the keytar!

A hymnal..?! Selected sheet music and lyrics. All for $1. I'll take one! Oh, and Michael's autograph.

Conclusion of the night: Cello+guitar makes for one absolutely beautiful combination. 

Some favorites: Grace for Me, The Earth is Yours, Beautiful Things, We Will Run. 

Thoughts // Spring 2011

It's hard to believe that we are yet again back in school! Last semester finished off with too many sleepless nights for me, so the winter break was a much needed and appreciated time of rejuvenation. Seems like so much went on, yet it was a peaceful time of personal growth, as well. I had my camera on me most days during December and all the lovely Christmas festivities, but after my trip to Atlanta, I didn't pick up my camera until January 23rd! I don't know if that is sad to anyone but me, but I sure am glad that the 365 Project was not on my resolution list, because I would have miserably failed a long time ago...

Needless to say, the new semester started and though I am busier than ever, I am determined to keep shooting. At least I keep telling myself that :)