This last weekend I was able to visit my family up in Friday Harbor. I have to admit we are very blessed to have such an amazing place to visit with out having to pay for much more than gas, ferry and a little food. Although... I am always happy to be back in my bed after any trip. We definitely were a bit more challenged this time around with a nearly two year old in the back seat who does not like to sit still worth beans. This first photo was her getting to sit in the driver seat while we waited for the ferry.

The next leg of our trip was the ferry ride, which Chloe thoroughly enjoyed. We walked around a couple times. However, the wind made the ride a bit unbalanced so walking around didn't last long. Journeys out onto the deck were fairly cold and made for short visits. Lastly, we found ourselves sitting at a booth looking out at the water. I was taking photos of my curious little girl, which always leads to her wanting to take some photos of her own. We decided to take some of daddy. He made sure we had lots of fun faces to take pictures of. Our next stop brought us to my parent's house. This was the first time my parents have gotten a lot of consistent time with this little one. And boy did she have a wonderful time. She had the chance to also really get to know my parents dog Ariel. By the end of the weekend she was even comfortable enough to tell the dog to come, sit and get out!

Chloe has done so much to my perspective in life. More than anything she reminds me to smile, enjoy life and think about the good God has placed all around us. Her laughter is contagious, her joy brings joy. 

Our trip was really special because it also held some really great time with my brother and to-be sister in law and getting to meet their new puppy Lucky. Also, while spending time in the San Juans we also got to see where my brother's wedding will be. The San Juan Vineyard and Winery is going to be a beautiful location. June seems to far off, yet I know it will be here in no time. 

Nothing like time with family to keep your mind focused on what is important. 

Mark 12: 29-31 - ... love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul. all your mind, and all your strength. The second is equally important, "Love your neighbor as yourself."...

Today is the day. Today is the day I will add more to my blog. Make it more a photography page. I have had such an overflow of support in starting this venture. I have many people asking me to take photos for them. I get positive comments all the time. So much encouragement has been given to me during this new adventure I find myself on. My aunt and I were talking today about how we are often our own worst critic. Which I believe to be very true. You would think that by now I wouldn't be so critical on myself. But, alas I find my mind telling me you aren't good enough.... you don't have enough experience. To a small degree it is making me continually try to learn new things. Helping spur me onto new challenges, but there is also the immobilizing portion of self critiquing. Those destructive words which only seem to slow progress and cause doubt. For those of you in the same boat. Don't give in! Don't allow destructive words to stop you. I know God didn't give me this dream to tease me, but to stretch me to become a better person. May your dreams lead you to the person you were meant to be.


This last week I had an opportunity to take some photos for a dear work friend of mine. She was in need to some self portraits for her blog. A blog I find very addicting I might add. She is the author of Blue Roof Cabin, a do it yourself blog with some inspiring projects. Her writing twists in humor and steps of each project throughout. She is a beautiful lady I have been truly blessed to get to know her.   She has encouraged me with starting this blog of mine and I am so grateful!




One of the things I have learned from her blog is her love for a very certain color. A color we happened upon while walking down an alley back to work. This amazing door had all of my favorite aged features. The color was simply a happy addition. Her passion goes far beyond a simple color, it includes taking discarded items and giving them new life. I love her before and afters. I am always immensely impressed with her capabilities and the quality pieces she creates. I encourage you to follow her as well! 

  


Another week another adventure. I will leave you this week with my reminder from a message I heard recently:

Life is not about keeping rules.

It is about what rules in your heart.

May my life be forever changed by what rules in my heart and Lord may that be You!