Summer Colors

 

Hello again, everyone!  I wanted to share my summer with you all.  I spent so many days taking pictures, especially while my family and I traveled.  Going to different places made me excited, as it allowed me to have different subjects, colors and attitudes in my photos.  Unfortunately, when I uploaded my photos, the most recent popped up first.  So, if you want to see my summer chronologically, start at the bottom of this page and scroll upwards.  

Isn't it funny how doing something as simple as starting from the bottom and scrolling up feels so very wrong?  But, when you think about it, going the opposite direction is no better!  I've been challenged over the summer to think about things around me (my struggles, society, reasoning patterns) from very different angles.  This means looking at back at causes, appreciating the skills that helps us through hard times, and embracing our dreams for the future.  

"Creativity Overgrown"

"Unfold"

When I look at the above picture, I honestly see a hedgehog sitting on a flower every time!  That reminds me so much of how our personalities have so many components making them truly unique.  We all have soft, delicate petals which present grace and beauty.  However, each one of us has a prickly, defensive or emotional side.  Putting these things together creates a very dynamic picture as well as spunk and fun! 

"Masked"

We've probably all heard at one time or another in our lives how most people go through life wearing a mask that covers up their true personality, feelings, struggles and/or beliefs.  This saddens me, because whenever I meet a person, I want to know about those very things!  I want- more than anything else from my friends- to see who they authentically are!  Nevertheless, I also believe that there are appropriate times to take on a "mask" in order to protect ourselves.  For example, say someone is going through a huge life-struggle.  However, they often get upset whenever they try to share about their troubles because others say hurtful things.  So, they put a mask over what they're going through in order to protect themselves until they get to a better place when they can discuss deeper things with others.  Note, however, that even in such times it's crucial to have some trusted people that you can always be authentic around!

"Original"

"Transition"

This picture is dedicated to all the MKs (missionary kids) who have moved from on country to another.  It's extremely difficult to leave your country- your home- and start afresh somewhere else.  You guys have gone through a lot and I'm so proud of all of you!

"Treasure chest of wisdom"

"The Overflow"

"As Different as Can Be"

Yes, they are!  But that does not degrade either of their personalities, dreams, lifestyles, or unique beauty!  Instead of allowing fear when we meet those drastically different than us, why don't we learn from one another?  Taking on different view points, at least for a trial time, allows us to grow as we see things we're missing out on or solidify what we believe is right.

"Standing out"

This reminds me of all MKs (and everyone who feels like they just don't fit in!).  Yes, you might dress in ways that are "bright red" or your ideas might be "purple" instead of the standard "green".   But at the core, you are also human.  You also have fears, joys, and personality.  And you are NOT alone!  There are others who feel the same as you!  

"Curiosity" 

"Remember" 

"Even one"

Even on act of kindness can change someone's day.  Even one encouraging word could allow them to embrace who they are.  Even one "hello" could make someone feel special.  Even one gift tells someone they're seen.  Coming alongside someone in need even once can change the course of their lives.

"One Bike In a Sea of Yellow"

"Still here"

"Adventure"

"Beautiful mess"

Sometimes we feel as if our lives have exploded and everything is coming undone.  Even in the mess, though, there is growth, there is beauty.

"Frosted Joy"

"Sun on My Face"