Unexpected.

Today, I received another package in the mail.

Same Ohio return address. Same small, neat handwriting. But, rather than being labeled "Summer Fun," this one said "Israel."

Inside, I found a pair of sunglasses, a memory card for my camera, and a gift card to Panera. Plus, the best part, a wonderful card from a boy who I miss A TON.

So unexpected and so wonderful.

Happy first birthday, Charis!

Charis,

Wow! I CANNOT believe that you are already a year old! I so clearly remember standing in the middle of campus, on the phone with your daddy as he told me you were going to be born. And it seems like just yesterday that I spent hours worrying about you and your mommy, only to be told that you were alive and healthy.

Happy birthday, my dear niece! You are growing up so fast!

Last time I saw you, you looked like this:

But you are becoming such a beautiful little girl, rather than an adorable baby (alright, you're still VERY adorable).

Even though it is no longer your birthday in Jerusalem, I still wanted to say how much I love you. I pray for you constantly and am so grateful for the joy that you bring into our lives-- the lives of your parents, of your grandparents, and of your aunt and uncles. I simply CAN'T WAIT to see you in just a few days. Hopefully, you remember me a little bit... or at least warm up to me quickly!

I love you, baby girl.

Aunt Alix

Summer fun.

Last night, I came home to a package from Matt that he had mailed before he left for Alaska. So perfect after a week of missing him and a long day of driving.

The card (which I was able to read after I stopped tearing up) explained that it was a "summer fun package," complete with a bubble wand, water gun, water balloons, and a Starbucks gift card. Now I'm ready for some summer fun!

It's this sort of thing that shows me that I have the best boyfriend ever. I am so, so, so blessed.

Engagement pictures.

A couple months ago, I had the privilege of taking engagement pictures for my roommate, Mary, and her fiance, Ben, who are getting married in November. It was so much fun to spend time with them and we ended up getting some beautiful shots. Here are just a few!

Just hanging out in downtown Upland.

So happy!

Stunning!

Aren't they cute?

Incredible.

I just found this story about a 22-year-old girl named Katie who is living in Uganda with 14 orphans, several of whom she has now legally adopted. Then I read her blog. And I nearly cried a dozen times.

God is calling me to do something with my life, though I don't know what. All I know right now is that I'm called to trust him. Until he reveals a concrete plan, I'm called to serve anyone with whom I come into contact. Read Katie's story because it is incredible and encouraging. This is the way I want to love Jesus.

Introducing. . .

I've never been much of an animal person. Although my family has had cats, I haven't particularly wanted to be responsible for them. However, last week, I was offered my own pet and (impulsively and to my surprise) I am now the owner of an adorable, playful, little kitten.

Meet Flannery O'Connor.

She's friendly, amazingly calm for a seven-week-old cat, and is fascinated by the feeling of walking on grass. She enjoys sleeping on my lap while I drive and was a complaisant traveling companion from Ohio to Indiana.

At the moment, I have visions of someday allowing her to wander around the shelves of my bookstore, but that may be an unrealistic dream. For now, she's content with exploring the unfamiliar territory of my aunt and uncle's house. We'll see how she adjusts to Georgia, once we make it back to the south.

Indiana and the 4th.

Currently, I'm in Indiana, spending a bit of time with some of my family. It's funny to be back in this state, in this area, after graduating a month and a half ago. When I drove past Exit 59 near TU, I experienced a little twinge of home-sickness. And then I took a picture of the exit sign and sent it to my roommates.

I spent the 4th of July with my grandparents, aunt, uncle, and cousins and I'm a little behind in putting these up, since the last few days have been full of other activities and events. But I loved the small town, mid-Indiana charm, so they're still worth sharing.

Before the parade began.

Anticipation.

Watching.

Parades are wonderful for people watching. Loved it. Hope you all had a delightful holiday weekend as well!

Happy Birthday, Matthew!

Dear Matt,

You're 23 today!

And, while I can't be there with you to celebrate, I hope you have an absolutely WONDERFUL day! You are an incredible blessing to me on a daily basis, as you encourage me, frequently make me laugh, and do whatever you can to make me happy.

Thank you for this past week. I enjoyed everything we were able to do together. Hiking, running errands, eating at Chipotle, working on our puzzle, relaxing in the hammock, watching movies, and just talking.

Hanging out at Chipotle.

I know that you'll have a great time partying with your family today! And, even though I miss you when we're apart, you're going to have an amazing, once-in-a-lifetime experience in Alaska! Praying for you as you leave tomorrow. In the meantime, enjoy celebrating your life!

Alix

(Fishbowl) wedding #1.

A week ago, one of my best friends got married and it was a GORGEOUS wedding and a very enjoyable weekend. So wonderful to be reunited with my roommates after a month away from each other and to experience an event that the four of us have been anticipating for quite some time.

The bride and her mother!

Jordi, getting her hair done.

Getting ready.

Beautiful roommates!

More bridesmaids.

The get-away car.

Setting up.

Ready and waiting!

Unfortunately, this is where my pictures end. It was a little difficult to take any of the ceremony or reception while part of the wedding party.

I'm beyond excited for Jordi and Justin as they begin their lives together. They have always been such an amazing example to me and have both been supportive friends since I met them several years ago. So, Justin and Jordi, I love you both and I can't wait to see the things that God does in your lives in the future!