I'm Stronger Than The Picture That You Took Before You Left

It has been quite a while since I have been here. Before I go into anything I would just like to direct your attention to the incredibly beautiful blog design that the super talented Bri of The Secret Life of Bee put together for me. I am beside myself with how fantastic it is and would highly recommend her design services, as well as her blog (it's one of my favorites). I feel like the design perfectly suits me and this space and am so happy about it.

Lately life has been all sorts of wonderful. I feel so thankful all the time for the great people that I get to spend it with. I have been documenting less and living more. There are a lot of things that I haven't shared on here, that I have meant to. So here are some photos from last summer that were taken to share on this space.



They never made it here last year, just like a lot of things have failed to arrive, but here they are now. They are special in a way that is hard to explain. In these photos, I was unaware of how my life would so quickly uproot and shift to one so unrecognizable, and I mean that in the best way. There is a strong, confident woman inside of the person in these photos just waiting to be triggered. This was the end and the beginning all at once. 

Skirt: Modcloth
Blouse: Forever 21
Tote: Vanilla & Lace
Sunglasses: Target
Flats: Journeys

Pink Magnolia Blushing and Coy, Savors the Sun While She Shines

Although it's Summer, I'm still trying to get caught up with Spring. I was so busy, but for me, Spring seemed to linger much longer this year than it usually does. Maybe that's because I was just counting the minutes until I was wrapped up in Summer, and already it's July. How did that happen?

Anyway, these photos are from the day that I took my second to last final. I finally started to feel free. 

One of the best places to explore/walk/take photos/relax happens to be right down the street from where I live. It's called Highland park and it's one of the most beautiful places. Somehow I discovered a huge part of the park that I had never been to on this day, and it's absolutely gorgeous. 

It's a path lined with all different types of magnolias and lilacs. We were really lucky to make it just before the magnolias were gone for the year.

Another great thing that I (re)discovered on this day was my 50mm lens. I feel embarrassed even admitting this, but it just sat in its case for about a year. I got a 35mm lens at the same time and fell in love with it. I had trouble getting the 50mm to focus and got frustrated, so I stuck with the 35mm.

Well, I'm so glad I decided to give it another try. I wish it didn't take me so long, and I still have to get used to it, but these photos really changed my mind about that lens.

I really loved this day, and am happy I finally get to share it.

Blouse: Vintage

Skirt: Forever 21

Sunglasses: Vintage (gift from Ben)

Clutch: Thread (gift from Ben)

Shoes: Old Navy