i'll never forget...

Day 25/31: Something someone told you about yourself that you'll never forget (good or bad).

I prefer not to focus on the negative things people have said about and to me and prefer sticking with the positive. That doesn't mean I don't remember those negative comments said to my face or behind my back (but within earshot), I just don't like giving them any more of my time and attention; if that makes any sense.

That, and I'm all about choosing joy, so with that in mind, here's my response to the prompt:

I'm not sure when she said it, but I'm quite positive it was at a family get-together. I had probably just ducked away from the camera my aunt was holding in an effort to dodge being caught in the limelight. My grandma had caught that moment and she looked at me, and told me "You have a beautiful smile."

And that's something I'll never forget. I don't really consider myself beautiful. I have scars on my face, my eyes aren't the same size when I smile, and I am not (nor desire to be) model-thin. When my grandma told me that, however, it brightened my spirits and reminded me that beauty isn't about appearances, it's about joy and happiness. So smile I will, and I want to remind you to smile, too.

"You're never fully dressed without a smile."

the top three.

another bad trait not listed is my need to have my camera in my hands at all times. i much prefer being behind the camera, thankyouverymuch.

Is this prompt supposed to help sell me as an unemployed college grad? I don't know. All I can think of while writing in response to this prompt is that I sure hope no one reads this or takes this too seriously.

But because I'm literally a week away from completing this challenge, I'm sticking with this prompt and sharing three of my worst traits. Now excuse me while I go hide under the covers as you read this.

I like to think. A lot. I'm not just an over-thinker (meaning I think a lot about petty situations), but I also spend a lot of time thinking. So if I don't say anything right away, it's not because I'm scared to, I'm just taking an extra moment (or two) to think about it all.

I lean all too often on fears and worries. Sometimes, my over-thinking leads to worrying and fearing. This is one trait, I'm definitely not proud of and am working on overcoming.

I'm pretty--okay I am--sensitive. It often really defines who I am, tearing up and crying with or for others, but it's also something I find myself leaning on too often. Crying and tearing up when others criticize my work--even if it's constructive and well-meant--and not remembering that I need not worry so much on what humans think, but rather what God thinks and how much He cares for me.

So yeah, you probably already knew all three of these traits but what I be you didn't know is that I was unintentional twins (as in seriously identical) with this lovely lady. And no, this was not planned. It just so happened that we have a lot in common!

bits and pieces.

What was once super sunny weather (that photo was taken on Monday), has since turned into rainy, cold and rather wintry weather. And it's literally the end of May. Let's hope the sun comes back! Finger's crossed.

Anyway, enough of the meteorology-talk. It's Friday, friends! And to kick off your weekend, here are some of the bits and pieces from my week:

After reading her post, I think these waffles are a must try.

Um, so this is an adorable (and genius!) idea for easy wall art.

The evening sun is magical.

I have the opportunity to take some photos for some friends of mine and couldn't be more excited or more honored. It was literally an answer to prayer, too because the night before, I had prayed to God that I was ready to follow wherever He wants me to go next. And if this is where He's leading me right now, then I'll take it and challenge myself in ways I never thought I would or could before. That said, if you have any tips for posing or portraiture, I'd love to hear it!

Have you heard about the American Blogger movie? It sounds A-MAZING and I'm so excited for Casey and her family.

This photoshoot is simply adorable.

I could easily spend an hour (or two) looking at this Pinterest board.

Thanks to this dear friend of mine, I watched this movie, and don't regret one minute of it. The tears were so worth it. And so was this celebrity music video of his song, too. Pray for his family, will you?

A free printable for every occasion. 

These look so pretty and perfect for summer sips.

Can I spend my summer evenings here, please?

Yum, yum, yum.

This is probably the best party idea ever. Definitely breaks the ice and makes for some great conversation, if I do say so myself.

Silhouette photography is simply spectacular.

Happy weekend, friends! Got any plans for Memorial Day weekend?