THOUGHTS ON 2012

It has been quite a year for me. This year started off with 8 months in Israel (January to August). See posts from Israel here, here, and here. I've learned a lot about my experience abroad and it's shaped me and changed me in ways I wasn't expecting. I learned a lot about love and living on your own in a new culture. It's an experience that has given me a new vision for the future and hope for a life out of the ordinary.

In September I went back to my University in Philadelphia to finish out my last year. As graduation approaches I have a lot on my mind. I can't wait to finish, I'm exited about opportunities, and frightened of the challenges that are in front of me. And while I have a lot of ideas before me, I just truly want one to work out.

Things I've Learned This Year....
Don't be afraid to be strong. Don't be afraid to be on your own and independent. No one can make you happy, people will always fail you. However, invest in relationships, invest in friendships because they are the people who will help make life a little sweeter along the way. Find good people to surround yourself and always know where to find your rest.

Things I want to see for 2012....

• My photography business bloom
• Secure the internship I've applied for
• Apply for a job that excites me and has a vision
• Work harder with LOVE 146 and use my creativity 
• Graduate in May 
• Pay off my debts
• Apply for the TESOL program

Thank you for those faithful readers who choose to go out of their way to leave a comment on my blog. You girls and guys are simply the best. And for all my "real life" friends who read this regularly (yes, I know you do), get a blog! I'd love to keep up with you too : )

So here's to a great 2011 and an even better 2012 with bigger challenges and higher dreams.

Happy New Year!

{ Here are some of my favorite picks of outfits I've tired to wear with some semblance of style. }

{ And here are some photos from my time in Israel/Palestine...boy do I miss that place }

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COFFEE WITH AUDREY - DEC 29 2011

Audrey and I calculated that it's been exactly one year since we've seen each other. But it feels like absolutely no time has passed. I love having friendships like this.
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12.5.11

{ Dress - H&M

Shoes - Target

Cardigan - Gap

Bag - a store in Jerusalem, Israel }

This year looks like it's going to be a good one. I'm graduating in May .... andddd I'm graduating in May. After that things get pretty ambiguous, but I'm hopeful for my post-grad plans : ) What are you looking forward to in 2012?

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OFF TO DENVER

My brother took off for Denver this morning. These photos are from last night as we sent him off with none other than Japanese cuisine!
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Dec 25

{ Coat: Gap

Dress: H&M

Cowl: Taylor House

Boots: American Eagle

Cardigan: Gap }

This is what I wore on Christmas Day. These are also some of the first photos I snapped (or rather my sister snapped) with my new camera. Totally smitten. The vintage gold bracelet is a gift from my sister Anna that I opened earlier that morning! She has such good taste : )
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WITHIN THE FRAME

Within The Frame: The Journey Of Photographic Vision

by David duChemin

There are some books out there that just change your mindset. As you know I moonlight as a photographer and I mostly shoot portraits, weddings, and engagements. However I've been wanting to take my photography to the next level. I graduate my four year college in May and I want to devote even more time to studying photography and finding a fresh way to translate my vision into a frame. This book is helping me in every way with this.

 The photos are moving and the text is right on and filled with passion. It's so good I can barely put it down!

I've been working on a list of books I've read over the past few months and will hopefully have that post published soon! It's probably more for me than for the sake of being interesting, but it's nice to have a record of the books I've read : ) I guess that's the nerd flaring up in me.
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How Was Your Christmas?

I shared how my Christmas went here and now it's your turn! I'd love to hear how you celebrated Christmas - the fun traditions, the crazy Uncles, and the delicious treats! Or if you were just kicking it low I'd love to hear how you spent your day : )
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364 MORE DAYS

Yes, I truly DO love Christmas that much : ) 

{ Dress: H&M

Boots: American Eagle

Tights: Target }

CHRISTMAS 2011

 This Christmas was more than amazing. There was no fighting, pure harmony, and a Canon 7d! Yes! I was ecstatic. So excited to get started when we pick up the memory card tomorrow.

I think my favorite part of the day was watching my siblings and parents open up the presents I had thought about for a while to give them. It's more than satisfying! I just can't believe it's over just like that. I always get a little sad once Christmas winds down. I wish it was stretched out over a few days...like 12 perhaps! Now we can't wait until next weekend when New Years Eve comes around! Got any big plans?

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