There's a bush in the yard that is currently yielding some sort of apples -- what kind, we're not sure yet, and we haven't been able to eat them, but I don't mind.
I'm writing with paper and pencil -- typing up the words is an extra step, but still worth it for the gratifying sound of pencil lead scratching against smooth, white paper.
It's Monday, but not just any Monday -- it's the first day of blogging since my rediscovery, the first day of a new style. Honestly, it's scary. It's a big commitment that I've taken up myself, to walk away from posts as I've known them in favor of something richer and different. At the same time, though, it's exciting to feel this mini revolution pulsing through my veins.
Today also marks the beginning of my last week of summer -- it's been one of the best summers of my life. I promised I would be more real in this new chapter, so here goes: I'm dreading the start of classes. It's not that I mind learning, it's just the stress that accompanies it I'm not looking forward to. This summer revealed the answer to what I want to do in life and I'm not ready to give up the job I had these past three months. Sure, there times I was stressed, but it seemed to be a good, real life kind of stress. School is the groundwork for a successful career, yes, but at times it seems a bit silly to slave over a paper that isn't going to matter in the grand scheme of things. I'm not denying the fact that life past school will be difficult and may lack fun and I know this seems rather childish; please don't think I'm complaining,. This is just something that's been weighing heavily on my mind lately.
But I suppose these years will be over before I know it and suddenly I'll be plunged into the real world. This morning, instead of lamenting the end of summer, I sat down at my desk and compiled a list of things I'm looking forward to this fall.
Looking forward to:
the visit of my sister Alina
cooler weather, and consequently, chunky knit sweaters and jeans
my birthday -- actually, our family's birthday season in general
more time spent in the kitchen
the reveal of my exciting project (soon!)
the spicy smells, tastes, and colors of fall
roaring fires on crisp nights
a photoshoot with a friend (ballet themed, no less)
a trip down to my hometown in Texas
The list is taped on the wall next to my desk -- each time I look at it, it makes it a bit easier to let one season of life go and embrace the next.
What are you looking forward to this fall?
xoxo
p.s. the previous giveaway winner didn't respond, so the winner of any anklet from emily's shop is michaela. congratulations! please email me to claim your prize.
What are you looking forward to this fall?
xoxo
p.s. the previous giveaway winner didn't respond, so the winner of any anklet from emily's shop is michaela. congratulations! please email me to claim your prize.
Nothing tastes better than a freshly picked apple! xo
ReplyDeleteIt sounds like your going to have a lot of fun this fall season (minus school)! I can't wait to see the project yo have been working on. :)
ReplyDeleteHave a lovely day! xxxx~Kelsey
I start school next week as well. Wednesday marks the beginning of an entirely too busy and crazy fall. I have classes at two different colleges, regular high school, and a job. It's looking to be quite busy.
ReplyDeleteI really am looking forward to fall, though. It's my favorite season, by far, and I'm looking forward to the crisp days, vibrant colours, and overall flavour of fall.
so much beauty.
ReplyDeletehonestly, carlotta, if i can say so. this new you is rich and deep and beautiful. if you and your writing were oh so glorious before, what new wonders will you be shown even now as you change? oh, i linger with anticipation for you.
this excites me. i am blessed by you.
Wow, you've had a long summer! I'm looking forward to fall, too. I made a list last night of all the things I want to do this autumn (from jumping in piles of leaves to NaNoWriMo) and it's made me pretty excited. :)
ReplyDeletewe have started school.
ReplyDeleteI wonder as you do, which is why our family chose a cirriculum that is solely based on the Word of God. Everything. To graduate, you must finish a summary of each book and key passages in the Bible. You must also keep record of key things that happened in your life over one month. i love it.
those apples look delicious. and your sister is so cute, those glasses, well they make her even more so!
I love the pictures of your sisters!! Too cute. :-) If your blog was amazing before, I'd have to say it's fabulous now! Change is scary, but once you get into it and look back, a lot of times you realize that it was needed. ;-) Not saying that your blog needed it, but I just know that at least for me, sometimes change is a bit scary to jump into!
ReplyDeleteKyAnn
bloommagazine.net
everything you wrote about matched your pictures perfectly...and thats hard to do!!! good luck in your next chapter!!
ReplyDeleteI just simply love your blog!
ReplyDeleteThings that I am looking forward to include my birthday, football games at school, and my school's homecoming dance. Also, fall means that Christmas is on the way! :-) Still can't believe that this is my senior year...
ReplyDeletexoxo Miss ALK
That sounds like a great list! I'm looking forward to chunky knit sweaters and jeans too. I love the photos of your sisters. They are so cute. :)
ReplyDeleteBeautiful photos! I love when you do the collage of one photo in focus and then one similar out of focus. :) this is also my last week of summer and although I'm excited I am sad summer is over.
ReplyDeleteI know exactly how you feel about school. A lot of it seems like a waste of time. I know that I need to learn these things but some things I know I will never use. :) But, I only have two years left, so I don't have too much longer. I'm glad. :)
ReplyDeleteGood luck!
Eliza
Healing, courage, strength, new found joy in our Savior Jesus Christ. A season of peace.....oh, and a good cup of coffee to start each day during the cooler weather.
ReplyDeleteI know exactly how you feel about school. I love learning, but sometimes it is stressful.
ReplyDeleteSummer ending is bittersweet. I’m glad the days are still warm at least. :)
Leah
What month is your birthday? Mine is october. :) Actually, two of my sisters and my dad also have birthdays in october, so I know how it is. :D
ReplyDeleteI love the idea of a looking forward dance - so neat! I have been regretting the end of summer so much, I think I'm gonna do this on the wipe-off board in my bedroom - as a nice reminder.
Thank you!
~bree
sister Alina? You have another sister?
ReplyDeleteAnd about school starting, today is the first day of my second week of school. I've been so stressed out lately. So, you know, you're not alone! :)
Sounds like you have a lot to look forward to this fall.
ReplyDeleteI feel the same way about school and about what life will be like after I graduate. :/
That sounds like such a beautiful set-up, and I can honestly say I feel you about the upcoming changes fall will bring! I think every student goes through this...they love summer, and they really discover things. But, school brings a different kind of stress and does take time away from other things.
ReplyDeleteAt the same time, I am awaiting many of the same things on your list: roaring fires, cooler weather, fall smells and tastes, and fall clothes!
By the way, I really liked this post. I feel like we get to know you a little better each time. :) (Can't wait to hear about this exciting project too!)
--Liz B
beautiful photos as always! you've inspired me to transform my blog as well, to make it more real and put more effort into each post :) I start school next week as well, and although I'm sort of excited to be back with friends and to be starting a new year, I know that two weeks into it I'll be wishing for summer! I love fall though, so that will help smooth things over a bit ;) Enjoy this week to the fullest!
ReplyDeleteYour new writing stlye is still beautiful. I know how you feel about school. I started two weeks ago, and it's been almost a burden. Still, deep down, I know it's good for me.
ReplyDeleteI'm really looking forward to starting an etsy shop this fall!
I've actually been enjoying school, sorry. pictures are nice as always
ReplyDeleteKeeping myself from wearing long sleeves when it's only just nearing september is awful. Can't wait for fall clothing.
ReplyDeleteI too, can't wait for fall clothing :). Fall fashions are my favorite :D.
ReplyDeleteCarlotta. It's like you go inside my brain, and then start writing. Seriously. It's crazy.
ReplyDeleteA 'looking forward' list is such a good idea. I need to get on that right away. ;)
twin sister.
c a r l o t t a,
ReplyDeleteI love your list of things to look forward to. I think I'll make one like that, too. Where did you get that blue tape from? It's just darling!
Eeep! I can't hold in my excitement any longer. Really. That project is beyond exciting for me. And your older sister is coming? I'm looking forward to hearing about your time together!
When's your birthday? You, Olivia (@ ofhorsefeathers), and me all have fall birthdays... I mean: we have to have some kind of fall birthday celebration, right?
xx acacia
so good to have you back, friend! i will always enjoy your posts no matter what the content. :)
ReplyDeleteEven though I love summer, I can't wait until fall comes so I can drag out all my long sleeve shirts and my sweaters!! It's actually starting to get cooler around here. And I can't wait until the season of drinking hot cocoa starts!! Lovely photos, btw!
ReplyDeleteYeah, I'm learning the "real world" has its ups and downs.
ReplyDeleteAs always Carlotta, beautiful post.
I have to say, I am very tickled to know what the secret project is. I feel so special knowing your little secret :)
Bree and Acacia: my birthday is September 23rd :)
ReplyDeleteNeat! :)
ReplyDeleteI'm so excited for fall! Love your pictures!!
ReplyDeleteGreat post Carlotta!! Here is something you might wanna look at:
ReplyDeletehttp://jjyourstruly.blogspot.com/2011/08/spot-blogger.html
Just for fun. Recognize one of the people??
I like your list idea. Lists are cool. :) I'm looking forward to autumn for autumn's sake, but it IS easy to get discouraged with such unromantic things as schoolwork.
ReplyDeleteGood luck with school, and chin up! :D
Hey you! Again- so proud of you for stretching yourself even more than you already do. You should be proud of all you've accomplished so far.... and use it as fuel to do even more amazing things, take more gorgeous photographs, try more new recipes, travel to new (and old!) places, and live the beautiful life you have. You're great and there's a whole bunch of us who think so! :) Have a great week chica.
ReplyDeleteI know this is so random, but I used to have the same turtle sandbox as in the pictures with the sprinkler!
ReplyDeleteI'm looking forward to football! My cousin is a senior in high school and he just became captain of his team!
ReplyDeletewhat kind of blue tape is that holding up your list? its cool
ReplyDeleteI'm looking forward to all the potiental posts that are soon to come. :) Happy-end-of-summer Carlotta! :)
ReplyDeleteYou're about to go into autumn (fall) and I'm about into spring! (yay) It's funny : )
ReplyDeleteI don't particularly like winter and today is the last day, so I'm happy! (in Australia)
And when is your birthda? Mine's in 8 days (yay) and i'm turning 13! I'm having a dress before the 20th century party! It should be lots of fun : )
Love your post ♥
xoxo
How beautiful is this post? Man, you have talent!
ReplyDeleteA looking forward list is a good idea.
ReplyDeleteBeautiful, Carlotta!
<3 your photos Carlotta! I was wondering though, how do you get them to go to photobucket/flickr when someone clicks them?
ReplyDeleteThanks!
thanks for answering my question, carlotta! :)
ReplyDeleteDid you know that you were DRAWN? Well, lookie here: http://jjyourstruly.blogspot.com/2011/08/spot-blogger.html.
Bam. Amazing, no? SO. Exciting.
That URL isn't working... sorry! :P just try entering jjyourstruly.blogspot.com ... you should see it there
ReplyDeleteThought you'd enjoy this link: http://jjyourstruly.blogspot.com/2011/08/spot-blogger.html
ReplyDeleteYou were drawn!
"The list is taped on the wall next to my desk -- each time I look at it, it makes it a bit easier to let one season of life go and embrace the next."
ReplyDeleteLove that, Carlotta. I feel you; sometimes it hard to be content right where you are. What a great idea to help you with this. I think I'll be making my own list! :)
Love this post, Carlotta! I recently have been reading your blog and visiting your flickr more and I am so inspired by your gorgeous, dreamy sunlight photography and your encouraging thoughts. I love the sentence after the looking forward list...so true, so true. I'm looking forward to crisp fall leaves and baking homemade apple pie from my grandma's friend's orchard and denim jeans and walking outdoors and so much more. God is good and we have so much to be thankful for. =) Blessings!!
ReplyDeleteWith Joy in Christ,
Elizabeth