My Eyes within my Apartment

In challenging myself to this project, I recognize that many days may come to an end and I will realize that I have not yet taken a picture. These two pictures are examples of this. But this also gave me a chance to look at ordinary objects within my apartment and find artistic ways to display them, so that in and of itself is a challenge of its own.

January 8, 2012

Location: Long Beach, CA

Considering that it was Sunday, I felt it was appropriate to photograph something about my church, Long Beach Friends, since this is where I spend most of my time on Sundays. I attend a church that is mainly Cambodian, but also has a smattering of other cultures. I love the diversity and personalities that the different cultural backgrounds bring.

On Sunday, we read from 1 Chronicles 16:8-11, a song written by David praising the Lord for all the works that he does. Too often in our busy lives we do not take time to reflect on all the ways God has worked and what he is still doing. I appreciate that on Sunday, our pastor took time to reflect on the past year and look forward to the next. For me, the past year has had its ups and downs, but God's hand has been with me and guiding me through it all. I am always amazed to look back on the journey and see how God has been directing me all along the way. If I had not overcome the trials and gone certain places, I would not be the woman I am today.

To the Lord, I give thanks. To the Lord, I sing praise. I seek his strength and presence in this new year. Through my life (and this blog), I hope to tell of his wondrous works. (adapted from I Chr. 16:8-11)

January 9, 2012

Location: Long Beach, CA

If you know anything about me, you know that I love to travel and experience new cultures. In this picture, you see a basket, two fans and two arrows from my time in the Solomon Islands in 2008. The basket and the large fan on the left were given to me as presents from women that I lived with before I returned to the States. The fan on the right was made by yours truly, hence the significant difference in quality. The arrows are still used for hunting with traditional bows. All of these items are handmade from palm fronds. I find the talent, skill and ingenuity that goes into the making of such items, very impressive! In order to take an artistic shot, I rearranged the items in my room, and afterwards, I realized I like this display even more than the original.