Independence Day /// 2013

O beautiful for heroes proved
In liberating strife.
Who more than self their country loved
And mercy more than life!
America! America!
May God thy gold refine
Till all success be nobleness
And every gain divine! 
("America the Beautiful" by Katharine Lee Bates)

Our Fourth of July was a restful day filled with family, fishing, fireworks, and food. It was quite a peaceful day - the sun was shining, the wind was lightly blowing, and the water was lapping against the rocks. I enjoyed capturing a few photos of the day's events, as well as the chance to sit by the lake and read a book. Beautiful memories.

What events took place during your Fourth of July festivities??

You Lead, I'll Follow

Africa.

It's a place that is on my mind a lot as of late.

Kids and orphans.

They have been on my mind quite a lot as well.

God's been working in some pretty neat ways, and now that I've graduated from high school I'm starting to get really excited about what this fall may hold. I'm still working on and praying about the details - but it's amazing to see where the Lord is leading and the possibilities He is revealing. Research, application forms, physicals at the doctors office, references, and prayer...I'm learning a lot about patiently waiting and trusting God through all things, to say the least!

And this is just a very small intro to what I hope will turn into an ongoing journey...more details will be coming soon!

(This photo was taken during my trip to Africa in 2009)

// berry stained fingers //

It was one of those summer days where the sun shone brightly in the unclouded sky, the birds were chirping cheerfully, and the wind gently rustled the leaves overhead. Oh...and don't forget the plump, juicy blackberries which clung to their vines, just waiting to be plucked off.

Berry stained fingers are the result of an oh-so-scrumptious mid-morning snack.