THE IMPORTANCE OF MAKING FRIENDS

I realized something this weekend.  On this journey to becoming a professional photographer, I am not alone.  Friday night, Kurt and I headed up to San Francisco to enjoy a meal at Farmer Brown restaurant with other local photographers.  And I think I met the nicest group of people ever!

I had dinner with 11 strangers... as in, people who I have really only interacted with over the internet... and walked away from that night with 11 new friends.  Photographers of varying levels of experience, but each possessing the same hearts of kindness.  Willing to teach and accept me as one of their own.  As dinner wound down, I turned to Kurt and told him that never in a million years could I have imagined this scenario 4 months ago. Or even 4 days ago. It's funny how God takes us down paths we wouldn't expect.  More on this gathering tomorrow...

Photo courtesy of Jenny Tsang

QUINCEAÑERA: JAZMINE

Don't be confused by the white dress and bouquet... that is not a bride you're seeing!  Last month Jazmine turned 15 and I got to photograph her special day. In Hispanic culture, the coming-of-age for a young woman is called her quinceañera. It is marked by a church ceremony, a pretty dress and tiara, and a birthday party celebration with her family and friends. Jazmine is a little on the shy side, so I was so happy to capture these images of her beaming with joy!

Workin' that dress!

Here's Jazmine with one of her adorable little damas, Scarlett. 

The ceremony was followed by a fun backyard reception with colorful decor, delicious Mexican food, and a live band to get the party going!

Jazmine: Thank you SO much for letting me photograph your quinceañera ceremony and reception. Be sure to call me the next time you are ready to rock a white dress ;)

FOUR YEARS AGO

Soft curls swept across my face and the faint scent of roses filled the air that windy Spring night. Together we walked. When we finally sat down, you spoke the words that my heart had been silently hoping to hear for months. You wanted to be more than friends. I still remember how my heart leapt when you reached out and held my hand in yours for the first time.

The other night you came home and pulled a pretty bouquet of fresh tulips out from behind your back. I leapt into your arms and we embraced. Those same hands pulled me close, only now they are the hands of my husband. Still pursuing my heart.

Four years ago we fell in love.

Springtime always reminds me of that first night. The night our friendship blossomed into a sweet romance.

FIGHT TO CLOSE THE GAP

These past couple months have been like a roller coaster ride. Terrifying build-ups that leave my stomach in knots and my heart in a panic, followed by fast-paced thrills, excitement, and fun that leave me with the biggest grin on my face. My budding photography career is just that. Budding. I've done some fun shoots with friends, had my first paid solo gig, and shadowed my first wedding (don't worry; the pictures are on their way, people!). I've learned a ton, but I still feel like I am just scratching the surface. But I know that this is what I am meant to be doing right now. 

I am uncomfortable, challenged, and weak; and I am happy, creative, and free. I guess I kinda like roller coasters ;)

When I started this blog, my first post was about courage. Courage was what I needed to take the first step towards photography. To be willing to put myself out there. Today's post is about perseverance. I am a couple months in and the pressure to give up arises again. And sometimes it's strong. But I know that I've got to press on. To keep going. To fight.

The ever-present fear of failure constantly tries to derail me. I am in a continual battle with laziness, which tempts me to quit because it's just. too. hard. But I know that real growth takes time and effort. And I want to grow! The words below, which are posted on the wall above my desk, serve as a reminder of that. To anyone out there who is aspiring to become excellent at something, I must urge you: fight to close the gap.

I ❤ 31 BITS

It feels like it's been forever since my last blog post. I spent the majority of last week dying sick with a cold. In between popping various pills for congestion, eating cough drops like they're Halloween candy, and nursing a running nose, I received a package in the mail that cheered me up a bit. 31 bits to be precise ;)

A pretty mint-colored bracelet from 31 Bits arrived on my doorstep. I'd been eyeing their collections for a while and I just love what they are all about. Thirty One Bits is a socially minded business with a meaningful mission and lovely jewelry. The jewelry is handmade with recycled paper by Ugandan women, who are empowered to rise above poverty, provide for their families, and chase their dreams through access to an international market. So my penchant for cute jewelry can actually make a difference. And my purchase is making dreams possible!

 My bracelet arrived in the cutest little pouch!

Sigh... I just love to see a good font :)

 Love it!

Be sure to check out all their pretty jewelry on their website: 31bits.com
And have a wonderful Wednesday! New photos are coming soon! :)