Breakfast at night is my faaavorite

create

I've been feeling incredibly creatively stifled lately. 

I'm just not inspired. My life feels like one, long, boring, tiring routine. Don't get me wrong, I'm extremely thankful for my job. I feel blessed that the Lord has provided me with this opportunity to learn something new, grow my patience, and earn money. Not to mention, the health insurance is an added bonus. But I feel so..."blah" because of what I do day in and day out. And so I don't feel like doing much else. I don't feel inspired to create anything beautiful. 

However I was checking out this blog today and now I feel rejuvenated! This girl is so talented and she has amazing ideas. Thanks to Elizabeth for introducing me to her work. 

When I first got my Canon, I would take it with me everywhere! However, little by little, I've been leaving it at home. Well, I'm happy to say I have two photo shoots planned for today! I'm excited to be taking pictures again...and hopefully I will remember to make time for my creative outlets. And maybe Alex and I will try something new together. I love creating things with him...mostly because if it weren't for him I probably wouldn't even try most of the things we try. And then I get so excited about the future and all the things we're going to do together. Life is such a beautiful, exhilarating, inspirational thing. We shouldn't forget that...and we shouldn't let it become routine and boring.

So how do you keep your life exciting?

Happy Valentine's Day

So I know a lot of people really dislike Valentine's Day. The cheesiness of it all. The fact that it's a "corporate holiday" invented by Hallmark. The way it makes you very aware of your "single-ness." Or if you're attached to someone, maybe it's the pressure of having to buy yet ANOTHER gift. 

But let's look past all this. Valentine's Day is a day of love. Yes, we should show our love to each other everyday...not just today...but it's nice to take a day out and really reflect on that love and show appreciation for those around you. 

And maybe we can reflect on God's love for us as well. They way God loves us never ceases to amaze me. It's so pure...so true...so unconditional. The Bible says in 1 John 4:19 "We love because He first loved us." In 1 John 4:8 it says, "God is love."

In fact, God is so amazing and he loves us so much that He gave up His Son. While we were still sinners, Christ died for us. Not only that, He forgives us of all our sins...past, present, and future. Every time I start to think of God's love I am reminded of His mercy. I know that I haven't done anything to deserve it...yet He still gives it. And I am very thankful for that. He doesn't stop loving us if we mess up. He loves us despite our flaws and shortcomings and He always will. 

So even if you're a little bitter about this holiday, just look at it from a different perspective. God loves you and desires a relationship with you. Remember that. And perhaps we should strive to love the way He loves. 

(Oh, and thanks, babe...for my surprise this morning...love you!)

Engagement Photos!

Yesterday Alex and I had our photos taken by Stephan Maloman. His lovely wife, Candace, also came along. It was such a great experience. We were both REALLY nervous at first...but I think as the shoot went on, we loosened up. I think Stephan was able to get some really great shots. Of course it helps that he's an amazing photographer!

We went to a little record store on Bird Rd. and then to Tropical Park. We even brought along our little Polaroid cameras...because, well, that's how we do things. I think Stephan was a little bewildered to see such an ancient form of photograph technology. ;-)

He did oblige us by taking one shot though...so that's good! (as you can see above)

I will let you know when he posts up the photo on his blog. In the mean time check out some of his other work...and the photos he took of my sister and her fiance. 

...in case you missed it...

I wanted to post up a youtube video of Mike Coia Band playing at Studio A last Wednesday. 

Check out Alex! He's the hottie playing the electric guitar. ;-)

I'm proud of him.

They're playing some more shows so check it out here. 

Also, they'll be playing at Studio A again on Match 7th...and I believe Alex will be playing with a band called Decembers Waiting as well. 

(What a pimp)

(the lead singer of this band is in high school...but he's so talented! I'm impressed.)

It's exciting to see my "hubby" playing with different bands. I know performing is what he likes best...and I'm glad he's getting the chance to perform with all these different people. Besides, we all know the main reason I got with him is because he plays guitar. ;-)

Love you, babe!

sins of omission

Tuesday night we began our new Bible study at Panera. 

We were outgrowing Pastor Dave's home...so I think it was Anne Marie that came up with the idea of holding our Bible studies at Panera. 

And so...last Tuesday was the first. It was great! We split up into different groups around the restaurant...broke out our Bibles and "In a Pit with  Lion on a Snowy Day" and had some interesting discussions. 

(Thanks to Lauren and Anne Marie for the team teaching)

I think the thing that struck me the most was the concept of sins of omission. Apparently there are two types of sin...sins of commission and sins of omission. Sins of commission involve regret about things you've done. Sins of omission are the opposite...things you HAVEN'T done. 

Well, I realized there are MANY things I haven't done...either because I've been too afraid or indifferent or lazy. 

I'm a quitter. I quit EVERYTHING. If it gets to be too hard or inconvenient, I quit. I can make a list of the many activities I've started in my life...but never completed. 

Ballet. Piano. Oboe. Xylophone. Baritone. Singing. Music in general. Drama. Softball. Basketball. Broadcasting. Etc. Etc. Etc. I even quit photography. I took my first photo class when I was 14 years old, but I quit. I picked it up again in college, but think of all the years I lost. All the knowledge and talent I could have acquired if I would have just stuck with it. 

So I guess my sins of omission involve NOT sticking with anything. Not trying. Not doing. Not taking action. 

Sad.

At the end of the study we did a little exercise. We had to write down ten dreams we have for our life. No matter how big or ridiculous it may sound. I couldn't even come up with ten...that's how much of a quitter I am...I quit before I even started!

I won't share my list with you because...well...I don't want to. But know that I, too, have dreams. And I'm thankful that I have Alex in my life. He really pushes me to try new things and is always very encouraging. He always makes me feel like I'm talented...somehow! 

And I encourage all of you to believe in yourselves. Dream big. So you may not accomplish EVERYTHING...at least give it a shot. Find your passion and strive to achieve it...no matter what people say. Don't doubt yourself. And remember, God is your biggest cheerleader...He knows you can do it...even if you don't know. 

some events

This week has been eventful. 

I started my first official week of teaching at Miami Baptist Preschool. 

I'm not gonna lie, it was rough. Things that are just starting out are always a little rough. I guess I didn't realize how...young...my kids would be. About half are still in diapers. Some don't speak yet or have limited vocabulary and understanding. I'm going to have to re-work my lesson plans and re-think my expectations. I'm definitely NOT used to working with such young kids, but I think it can be done. Even if this isn't really what I want to be doing with my life, I know that I will learn from this and some where down the road I will remember everything I'm doing now. 

So please just pray that things improve and that I can become better at my job!

On Thursday night Alex and I had our food tasting for the wedding reception (Mike tagged along). The food was delicious! So it didn't make our decisions any easier. I think we're going to have to go with a combo so that our guests can experience a variety of good food. (you're welcome) ;-)

After that we sped off downtown to Studio A. Mike Coia Band was performing! Alex played guitar and it was just a great time. I'm proud of these guys for pulling off a good show. Mike has written some catchy tunes, so you can go check it out on myspace. Thanks to everyone who came as well. As Merari would say, "Support local music!"

Last night as Alex and I were purchasing our wedding bands from Jared's, my sister called and asked if we would like to go to a Heat game. She and Manny had extra third row tickets. Well we couldn't pass up that offer! I've never been to a Heat game and it was exciting to go see them in action. Even if they played a pretty crappy game and lost. Plus, I finally got to see Shaq up close. Little known fact: When I was in 5th grade I thought Shaq was the COOLEST. I don't know why. I read his biography and memorized his shoe size and had his poster on my wall. I was a big dork. But hey, now I finally saw him in person...that's one childhood dream realized. Now if I could only meet Hanson...

The First ZEAL Service of 2008

College and Post-College Ministry at Miami Baptist Church
ZEAL
Presents

If You Can't See Him, Is He Still There?

voting

So I didn't vote in the Florida primary.

Sorry.

The truth is I'm not very schooled in politics. I don't know anything about the issues...or the candidates...I'm not even sure what I really believe in. Besides that I'm a registered independent (I refuse to be pigeonholed!), so I wouldn't be able to vote for the presidential candidate. (Yes, I know I could have voted on some other items...but what do I know?!) 

I've decided that I would like to know more and I should be more educated. Afterall, running the country is a big deal. I should be informed at least on what the issues are and where everybody stands. 

So I took the first step with this silly internet quiz. (lol)

I know it doesn't really mean anything, but I thought it was interesting. 

Who You Should Vote For

John McCain: 53% Barack Obama: 47% Ron Paul: 47% Mike Huckabee: 33% Hillary Clinton: 27% Mitt Romney: 13% Who you agree with on the war in Iraq: Ron Paul Who you agree with on the economy: Mike Huckabee, John McCain and Ron Paul Who you agree with on health care: Barack Obama Who you agree with on taxes: Mike Huckabee Who you agree with on abortion: Ron Paul Who you agree with on gay rights: Ron Paul and John McCain

Who Should You Vote For?

10 Interesting People in New York

In December of 2005 I took my very first trip to New York City.

I made the trip with David Uribe and Angel Acevedo...and it was a blast. 

We took so many photos and silly videos. We walked all over the city in the three days we were there and saw so many things. At the time we had an idea to put all those videos together and make one long hilarious video. What can I say? I never got around to it. (Sorry, guys)

However, as I was organizing my photos today (I won't even BEGIN to tell you how tedious this process is!), I came across the ones from our NY trip and I remembered another little project we had in mind. We wanted to take photos with ten interesting people that we met in NY, so we could remember them.

And so here it is... Ten Interesting People In New York... Maybe David and Angel can fill in the blanks on things I may have forgotten... 

Scary hat lady...I'm not sure that thing was dead...it had a face!

Man with a very well-trained dog...and he's darn proud of it!

That man sure had a lot to say...he knew the entire history of NY and then some. Met him outside of a used book store... was it in the Village?

Musicians in the subway.

Introducing...Very Tall Man.

Everyone Loves Santa Claus.

He's kinda cute...that's why David picked him.

Spider Man on wheels...no web action today...

Sax Player. Central Park?

Giuliani! lol That's all I have to say about that. Very random moment. 

28 years

Today my mom and dad celebrate 28 years of marriage. :-)

Just wanted to wish them a quick, "Happy Anniversary." 

I love you!

Edit: I found this photo of them on their wedding day! How beautiful! :-)

U2 3D

What I really wanted to do last night was go to the Hard Rock to see my favorite band perform (along with Matchbox 20 and Alanis Morissette). 

However, plans fell through...and although I was deeply saddened by the turn out of events...Alex came through and came up with another great thing to do.

We traveled up to the IMAX theater in Ft. Lauderdale (accompanied by two of Alex's work friends) and saw "U2 3D." The whole night was a blast. I haven't laughed that much in a long time. The ride up was hilarious. We tried calling the IMAX theater three times to get the information about show times and ticket availability as we were racing along the Turnpike. We accidently left a message of us screaming, "What happened?! No! Press 1! Press 1!" on their answering machine. 

*Note to self: I really dislike automated messages.

We arrived just on time and were able to catch the 8:40 showing. The movie was so great. The footage was incredible. And how can you go wrong with tunes from U2? They have amazing songs and great stage presence. It was an interesting experience to have Bono's face right in your face and see the Edge in all his 3D glory. Very interesting. 

Alex had seen U2 live once (a gift from one of his customers! pfft...talk about a great customer), but now we got to see them together. ;-) Aww..

After the movie we walked around Las Olas Riverfront until we found a little place to eat. More laughs. More good times. 

I recommend you go check out the movie. Especially if you've never seen U2 live before...this may be your only chance!

my new job...

I've been quite busy this week...but Anne Marie gently reminded me (as she always does) that I haven't updated you all on my new job.

Well, I'm a pre-school teacher for Miami Baptist Preschool (a ministry of Miami Baptist Church). That's right...your's truly. I have to admit, it's not my dream job and I never expected to become a pre-school teacher...but this is where the Lord has lead me. This whole week I have been at church preparing my room, decorating, making runs to 'Get Smart', writing up lesson plans, reading curriculum books... It's a lot of work. But it's fun too. I'm enjoying it.

The kids start on Monday...and as prepared as I am...I don't know how truly prepared I am. The kids in my classroom are around the age of 2 (one is only 20 months old). I have never worked with two year-olds before. It's a lot different than four and five year-olds. Their language skills aren't on the same level...and I think that's what worries me the most. 

In any case, I'm putting it on God's hands. I will learn as I go. And so will they...hopefully.

Oh...here's my "Jackson Pollack" creation. Thanks Heredes.

Infidelity

One thing you and your fiance have to do before getting married is talk.

About everything. Even those pesky little things that may not be too comfortable to talk about.

That's why I am a big fan of pre-marital counseling. It's really the best thing you could do before walking down the aisle. Alex and I will begin our pre-marital counseling with Pastor Dave in February...and being the little psychologist that I am, I can't wait to get started!

So much so that a couple weeks ago as Alex and I were driving around I decided to bring up The Question. "If I were to ever cheat on you, would you divorce me?" 

The funny thing is the topic came up again last week at our small group Bible study. The topic we were discussing was that there is nothing we can do to make God not love us. He will always love us and forgive us of our failures and shortcomings. I suppose we were talking about how that is not the easiest thing to do. How often do we shun people from our lives for hurting us in some way? And then came the issue of marital infidelity. A few girls expressed their concerns over this issue and did not know if they would want to continue in a marriage in which their husband had been unfaithful.

I realize that cheating has enormous repercussions in a family. It can completely change the way you view someone that you love and it can hurt you more deeply than you ever thought possible. But I also believe that all can be forgiven.  One thing that I have seen in the Bible is that Christ is the "groom" and the church is His "bride." How often have we (His Church) been unfaithful to Him? How many times have we "cheated" on Him or sinned against Him? Yet, He still loves us...He still wants us to spend eternity in Heaven with Him...He will still forgive us again and again. This is the principle I want to apply in my own marriage. 

No matter how hard we try not to, I am certain that Alex and I will hurt each other in some way. We will disappoint each other at some point in our life together, probably numerous times. But we have to make a commitment to stick by each other and forgive each other no matter what. And yes, that includes marital infidelity. Some people may think that cheating is something that is unforgivable, but what kind of testimony is that sending out to the world? No sin is unforgivable. If God can forgive, we should strive to forgive as well. It is difficult beyond words, because after all we are human, but it is possible. That's what unconditional love is all about. 

And for those of you that believe that a marriage is never the same after infidelity has taken place...you're right, it's not the same, but that doesn't mean it has to be horrible. I know of one couple that I admire so much. They have been through some tough times in their marriage (including unfaithfulness) but they are still together and they are still striving to make their marriage honoring to God. I really look up to them and I can see that through their struggles they have emerged an even stronger couple than before.  I really see that their marriage has gotten better over time. It is unfortunate that events took place the way they did, but they have made the best of it, and I admire them for that.

So what do you guys think? 

Danibel & Manuel...Engagement Shoot!

My sister and her fiance had their engagement shoot on Sunday!

The photographer (Stephan Maloman) posted up some of the photos on his blog.  Check them out! This is the same guy that will be shooting for Alex and myself. He is extremely talented. I knew from the moment I saw his portfolio that he was the photographer that I wanted for the wedding. His style is very fresh, stylish, editorial, fashionable. 

Beautiful. I'm excited to see how all the photos turn out.

how do they do it?

You know those girls that ALWAYS look good? Their make up is always perfect (maybe they don't sweat or have oily skin?), their clothes always match and fit perfectly, their hair is always perfectly styled. How do they do it? 

I really think it's an art. I don't know how some girls find the time or talent to make themselves look so good. I find it exhausting whenever I have to style my hair. Which is why I've enjoyed having it short. And I only have one trick up my sleeve...hair iron! Other than that, my hair stays in a (messy) bun. Because I really have no creativity...or talent (in that way). 

And when you see those girls that do amazing make up...where did they learn that?! Most days I go sans make up because I am just NOT inspired. And when I try to play with it a little...it always ends up being the same ol' thing. Black eye liner, mascara, the occasional shadow. Some girls do amazing things with make up. I love it. 

I don't know who they do it. But those girls are my inspiration. I say, KUDOS, to all you girls out there who know how to look good. All those hip and fashionable ladies...little by little, I'm catching up to you. Perhaps one day I'll be just as glamorous as you all. :-)

By the way, Alex and I are taking our engagement photos with Maloman Photographers (formerly Big Fat Knot Studios) on February 10th at 3PM. If any one of you fabulous girls out there can do some beautiful make up work PLEASE let me know. I want my make up to look flawless that day. So...holler! 

on my mind

I've had so many things on my mind lately. 

So many that I can't even talk about it because I wouldn't even know where to begin. 

Last night at Bible study, Pastor Dave was asking us how our life was affected in 2007...and how our experiences would shape 2008. 

Hmm... Well, I mentioned something about how I've always been so spoiled and sheltered and well taken care of. And how in 2007 I was very slowly beginning the process of "growing up." I graduated college, began working full time, got engaged... I'm getting used to the fact that very soon I won't have my grandmother under the same roof with me. I won't be the "baby" anymore. I know I blog about this a lot...but it's all very frightening and it really just consumes my thoughts. 

And so I believe that the work God has started in me in 2007 will be completed in 2008. I don't mean that God will be all finished with me and I will be a perfect spiritual being. FAR from it. What I mean is that in 2007 God began shaping me to become a more independent and responsible person and in 2008 when Alex and I say, "I do," and we make our move...that I will finally be independent (from my parents) and responsible. (Hopefully!) And in growing more independent from my parents, I will become more and more dependent on God. It's a beautiful and scary thing. I believe I have uttered those words before...but again, I can't help it. These thoughts consume me day and night. 

In other news, I quit my job today. Yup. I love my job. I honestly and truly do. And I would stay there, but certain circumstances won't allow it. The 17th of January will be my final day at the Montessori school and the following week I will begin my new job. Details to come later. It was bittersweet informing my boss and my co-workers that I wouldn't continue working there...but I have to do what's best. This is just the first of many changes to occur in 2008. So I better get used to it. 

back to work...

Today I went back to work. It was really great having a two week break...and I was starting to miss those little rugrats. But getting up early and actually GOING to work was rough. 

There are many things that are uncertain in my life right now. And I'm the kind of person that feels anxious when I don't know things. I don't like to be left in the dark. I like to be in control. This is something that I have been struggling with for most of my life. It's hard for me to just "let go." It's hard for me to just say, "Alright God, you're in charge here...I'm not going to worry about it." And even when I do decide to not be in control, but rather let God be in control, I still have mini anxiety attacks. 

Well, I can honestly say that God has never let me down. He has never steered me in the wrong direction. So that does make it easier. He is so wise and He loves us so much. Why shouldn't we trust Him?

The Most Fun A Bride Can Have

Last week my sister and I began the process of registering for gifts!

I never realized what joy that little gun could bring. It's exciting to imagine what our apartment is going to look like. Lord knows I'm not much of an interior decorator...but I believe that our little apartment is going to be the cutest apartment in all of Wake Forest. Especially because thankfully Alex has great taste. 

So if you're interested we are registered at Crate & Barrel and Target. We might still add or remove some items. And just so you know SOME items are only available on-line...so you can order it from the web site and have it shipped to my house...or it might be wise to purchase gift cards. Just some thoughts. ;-) 

But don't worry, there's still time to save up some money... ;-)

Hello 2008!

2008 just got here and I can already tell it's going to be a great year.

Last night Alex and I got all dolled up for a party his co-worker was throwing. Interesting. We didn't know that many people...but hey, who cares? We looked hot. ;-) 

We had to leave the party shortly after midnight because Alex had to be at work today at 8 in the morning. Bleh. So we went home and knocked out. Yes, we're like an old married couple already. 

Anyway...I was thinking about 2008 and it's going to be a crazy year filled with many changes. My sister is getting married in March and I follow shortly after in May. Can you imagine ME married?!? I don't know how to be a wife or maintain a household. I have to be responsible. I can't rely on mom and dad anymore. From now on it'll be just Alex and me. We have to clean for ourselves, cook for ourselves, maintain our finances. I've never been "on my own" before. I've always lived at home with my abuelita and she took darn good care of me! 

Not only will Alex and I be on our own...we will be on our own in North Carolina! Miles and miles away from our families and friends. Alex and I have a married couple that we hang out with. They got married last summer and moved to Miami right away. Her family is in Minnesota and his is in Alabama. Needless to say, they are totally alone in South Florida. She was telling me that it is difficult not having her family nearby because she can't run to them when she and her husband are having problems...but it has forced them to deal with their issues themselves. They have to work everything out without the help of family and in a sense it has made them closer. 

I can only imagine the kinds of arguments Alex and I will have in our apartment in Wake Forest, NC. I'm sure it will be very difficult, but it will always be worth it. 

And so even though I am scared to death about what 2008 has in store for us...I am very excited! I'm excited to finally be able to experience life outside of Miami. I'm excited to start a new life with my love, my best friend. I'm excited to begin my seminary education! I'm excited to meet new people. I'm excited to go to a new church. I'm excited to experience God in a different way than I ever have before. Yup. 2008 is going to be an exciting year.