Strength

Life and love are precious.
Saying I love you is important.
Someday, you will tell someone you love,
I love you
For the last time.
On that day,
Their last
I love you
Will mean the world to you.
We don't know when.
Some people don't love.
They kill.
And those who love
Will hurt
And fear
And reach out in love to those
Who hurt.

But Love—
Love is Strong.

Of Guilt and Inspiration

It's spring, and I'm feeling it.

There are so many little flowers blooming,

and it's inspiring me to tame more pictures.

I have to admit, though I take my camera practically everywhere,

I've been lacking a little on creativity.

So a little prick of guilt,

And a little taste of success,

And some spring fever mixed in there,

I'm more inspired.

I used a rain overlay from Carrie at "Captured by Carrie", and an action from The Coffee Shop Blog

I almost blamed it on winter.
You know, it being all bare and boring out there.
But, there's no excuse,
Because I can always find a still-life to shoot.

So, hopefully I'll be going through more pictures and keep myself motivated.

Blessings,
Alyssa

Happy 1st Day of Spring!

Okay, so I had a little fun with some sparkle brushes,

but isn't there something magical about

spring and love?

Blessings,

Alyssa

Life in Seasons

I saw a small footprint in the mud and was reminded that little children make a big mark on this world.

I saw a fort built of snow and plywood and was reminded that adults pass traditions down to the young.

I saw an elderly lady wishing to go out in the cold and was reminded that footprints fade, and snow-forts melt.

I saw a tiny flower and was reminded that all goes on.

Blessings,

Alyssa

Armed to Face Another

Sometimes our tools are different. One time I used a spatula to fight my fears; this time I armed myself with my camera, a pen and notepad. I faced them. If I likened this experience to the pancake experience, I would say that maybe I burned a few pancakes a little, but I kept on flipping them.

It was my first assignment to cover an event for the small-town newspaper I work for. An hour before the event started, I began to realize that I was nervous. I knew I could fake some amount of confidence and step out of my comfort zone. That wouldn't be too hard for me. Friendliness and goodwill I wouldn't have to fake, though. I'm always glad I have that on my side. Some may not say it gives much of an advantage, but I feel a smile and a little openness can go a long way for me. It's more for me than anyone else. A good attitude benefits us, as James Franklin, MU quarterback and tonight's guest speaker, said tonight. "Never underestimate the value of attitude", Franklin said, "It is a choice."

So, with a smile, a pen, and a camera, I stepped in and did my best.

Then I think of all the support I had. "You have this whooped," my boyfriend encouraged me. "How did it go?" my sister and mom asked, and I knew they cared. "You'll do great," my boss said. And as always, I had the confidence and assurance that God gives his children. I am so blessed.

Blessings,

Alyssa