Hello Dear Friends! Happy Monday! I’ve lost count of how many days of non-stop rain there’s been here in South Carolina…four, five? Golden, sixty-degree afternoons spiraled within twelve hours to thirty-seven degrees with torrential downpours. The fog has lingered for days, threading through the pines, skirting the pasture fences, and chilling the skin with its cold caress. Immersed in a novel version of winter mists and rain, I’ve been reminded of the magic of a snowy afternoon. I’ve heard that there’s been an abundance of snow back home in Michigan. While I don’t miss cracking frozen water buckets or navigating icy backroads, I miss the enchanted moment of waking up to see a barren landscape transformed into a dazzling wonderland. There’s nothing quite like the peace of watching snowflakes drift down from a quiet grey sky to slowly, steadily, millimeter by millimeter blanket the world in a flawless garment of white. I treasured the glimpse of a winter wonderland on Christmas Day, knowing it would likely be the only snow I’d experience this season. It was that classic Christmas morning moment every midwesterner knows: opening your eyes Christmas morning and throwing up the blinds, hoping against hope for a dusting of white. Pressing my nose against the frosty windowpane, I was greeted by the sight of a swirling snowstorm. Gazing at the skeletal trees robed in white and snowflakes chasing either other across the frozen meadow, the childlike wonder of Christmas filled my soul. Probably the only person on the planet willing to leave the comfort of a crackling fire and an abundance of cookies and cheery Christmas carols to humor my desire for a snowy photoshoot for was dear Esther. She was relatively obliging…after I promised her chocolate truffles and samples of my favorite Trader Joe’s cookies. (Speaking of TJ's - 100% recommend. BEST. GROCERY. STORE. EVER. The only place I get food these days and their chocolate...don't get me started). So bribed by some Joe Joe's, we stepped out into the snow. And what a scene it was. The snow would fall gently, soft and tender for a few moments and then cease completely. The world would rest silent under beneath the cloak of snowflakes. Then suddenly, in a breath the snow would fall again, spiraling down furiously. Swirling, whirling, enchanting, but always silent. I’m awed by the intricacies of design in every snowflake. Each snowflake is different, each a beautiful crystal, yet all reflecting the radiant light of the sun. Isn’t this creativity a poignant illustration of God’s character and a powerful reflection of the diversity that exists within His people? Also…my little Essie turns ten this month. TEN. The years and hours and days seem to be racing on and slipping through my grasp. TEN. TEN. TEN. Her bright blue eyes, vibrant smile, golden hair, and animated expressions reflect her spirited soul and tender heart. Until now, she’s been my roommate from day one. I miss her giggles every night and that saucy toss of her head when she’s upset and the way she laughs with her entire soul. I miss her smile every day. Happy early birthday to my little sunshine and photoshoot buddy. (Keep scrolling for some priceless bloopers…I’m telling ya this girl has got some expressions). Also comment if you want to see the Christmas music video we also created from this shoot!).
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AuthorHey there! I’m Noel. An 18-year old living in the beautiful West Michigan countryside. An aspiring writer, horse-crazy country girl, sister of five, amateur photographer, chocolate enthusiast, used-to-be-ballerina, recovering perfectionist, decided introvert, but mostly…a broken mess redeemed by Christ. Thanks for stopping by. Archives
June 2021
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