December 31, 2010

10 for 2010 and 10 favorites









Inspired by my favorite photo project, I thought I'd reflect on 2010 by choosing 10 of my favorite photos from the year. It was harder than I thought! 2010 has really been the year of photography for me. I gained many favorite photographers through my search to find someone to shoot our wedding. We took engagement photos, wedding photos, ordered albums, and I even did my very own maternity shoot for a friend. :) I enjoyed taking 10 photos on the 10th of every month, and participated in a-photo-a-day project in November. Steve gave me this fabulous camera for Christmas, and to top it all off, I'll be submitting a photo each day in January for a special project called The Beauty Collective. Photography has become an unexpected hobby for me, and I can't wait to keep learning...

Besides photography, I've fell in love with some other things in 2010. So, without further ado, here are 10 faves for 2010:

1. Favorite book that I read: To Kill a Mockingbird
2. Favorite movie: The King's Speech (just saw it!)
3. Favorite song: Just Breathe by Pearl Jam
4. Favorite latte: Double tall 2% latte from Fresh Flours
5. Favorite trip: Whistler, BC in July
6. Favorite tv show: Modern Family
7. Favorite YouTube video: tie between Jessica's "Daily Affirmation" and Double Dream Hands
8. Favorite blogs: Design*Sponge; YouCan'tCallItIt (I don't know why, I just like names); and Raincitypastor
9. Favorite shoes: Red Toms
10. Favorite husband: Phil Dunphy...just kidding, I have a really cool one of my own now. :)


2010 has been a great one. A huge one for me, really. But I'm looking forward to 2011. After reading this post, I'm especially inspired to build a better foundation for my faith (less reacting to the stress of life, and more prayer). Oh yeah, and maybe run a full marathon?? We will see. :)

Happy, happy 2011!

December 10, 2010

November 30, 2010

Thankful

November has been quite a month! Since taking part in the capturing our blessings project, I've officially broken my monthly posting record. It's been challenging to remember to take a picture each day, but totally worth it. Capturing a photo a day has made me notice many things that aren't typically on my daily radar: colors, weather, lighting, angles--and in this way, I have enjoyed the creativity behind the project. At the same time, I've noticed that my eye is drawn to food, nature, facial expressions, places around my home, and the blur of movement. In this way, I have learned more about what beauty is to me.

Over the 30 days, I attached words or phrases to each photo. When I look back on these words now--each daily blessing--I can't help but feel overwhelmed. I am blessed. And for that, I'm very very thankful.


I am thankful to be...
warm
informed
healthy
educated
loved
inspired
an american
free

home
traveling
learning
cooking
relaxing
with friends
sharing a sunday


I am thankful for...
funny conversations
my home team
passion
endurance
a smile
imagination
snow, sweats, slippers
our neighborhood

a haircut
good food
group photos
quality time

worship
christmas music + dancing
memories


Now I say bring on the holidays, more snow, classic songs, warm (or ugly) sweaters, traditions, the scent of fresh pine, and a chance to celebrate God's gift to us. For this season, I am truly thankful.

#30: memories

November 29, 2010

#29: christmas music + dancing


I don't want a lot for Christmas /There's just one thing I need/
I don't care about the presents/Underneath the Christmas tree/
I just want you for my own/More than you could ever know/Make my wish come true
All I want for Christmas is...
You

November 16, 2010

#16: funny conversations


via text message yesterday afternoon:
Steve: Might get a new phone. What about an iPhone?
Rachel: Xmas present?
Steve: Yeah, just don't know if I need an iPhone.
Rachel:
Yeah...

1 hour later, after forwarding him an email:
Rachel: Hey, did you get this email?
Steve: No, but cool! [Sent from my iPhone]