Prom 2013

I can't believe I forgot to post these photos last month!  I got the opportunity to snap shots of a lovely prom group, which had their dinner on the beach (it was the most darling set-up), and I had so much fun taking these picture.  This group of kids had the best sense of humor and were very sweet.  I hope you enjoy these just as much as I did (this is just a small sampling, more can be found here)!

Stephanie's Graduation

Yesterday, the first of my little siblings graduated from high school - so of course, the whole lot of us piled up in the car, and sat on uncomfortable bleachers in the hot sun to wait for her ceremony - however, it was well worth it!  We watched the tiny nugget walk out, listened to her solo, and wildly cheered as her name was called.  I'm very happy that I could take part in this special day - it's crazy how fast my little lambs are growing up!  Side note: how gorgeous is the graduate?  Stephanie is headed to CSUF in the Fall, and we couldn't be prouder.

Surprise!

A few weeks ago, the lovely Lindsay arranged a surprise engagement celebration dinner for my close friends Jamie and Rochelle - although I ran in at the last second (Lindsay stalled for Farrah and me), we made it in time.  It was a sweet evening that I'm so happy I could be a part of.  Not gonna lie, I spontaneously started sobbing when Jamie told me he had plans to propose to Rochelle (he did so in the Grand Canyon).  I've never met people who are so perfectly matched for each other, it's a beautiful thing to witness their love.

I'm disappointed that I barely got any decent pictures because my hand basically had tremors that night and I despise using flash (the restaurant was pretty dark).

Happy

I'm happier and less stressed than I've been in months. I've had social engagements with friends every day for the last week - something I have not had time for (or made the time for, rather) in ages. I'm trying to get some routine in my life - waking early so that I can leave work at a decent time and actually have a life outside of the office. For a while my "routine" was to get in bed the second I get home, and fall asleep with the lights and my clothes on (which is also the reason I haven't posted pictures in a very long time).  I've hardly had time or energy to cook for myself and was weeks behind on my favorite television shows. It wasn't a happy existence - although I adore my job, over-committing is never a good thing. I was giving away my most valuable resource: time. Not only was I doing this, but I was giving it to people who didn't value it or appreciate it- something I am making a concerted effort to avoid now. I aim to spend my time with people who can make me laugh, don't mind that I hardly have a filter, and who live their life with an optimistic energy.

a jellyfish - taken at the Aquarium of the Pacific yesterday