Happenstance {the photoblog of courtneylynn}

If This Was A Movie: Kimmy & David's proposal :)

2012-01-13T21:34:00.000-08:00

Its extraordinary moments in ordinary days that allow me to think that sometimes, life is better than teh movies. The day that David asked Kimmy to be his wife was one of those days. Set in the beautiful background of Stowe lack in Golden Gate park on a paddleboat, David shared his heart with her and asked to her spend the rest of her days with him, glorying the God that both saved them.

Joo (one of the groomsmen) and I waited patiently for them to come around the bend of the lake.

That magic moment. :)

She said yes. :)

Happy friends waiting at the engagement party with a bubble filled entrance.

The Chungs are always dressed for the occasion.

Everyone gathering round to hear the story

We're less than 50 days away! Stay tuned for their engagement photos. :)

Coming Soon....

2012-01-06T00:54:00.000-08:00

A 12x12 wrap up.... and January-Photo-A-Day!

By My Side {Carol + Quang Wedding}

2011-12-31T00:06:00.000-08:00

I just wanna hold you

I just wanna kiss you

I just wanna love you all my life

I normally wouldn't say this but I just can't contain it

I want you here forever right here by my side

{david choi - by my side}

Though Carol & Quang got married in the hot summer of this past August, there are still days I can't really believe that they are together. I knew both of them for the past few years, but at different times and in slightly different contexts. Carol was one of my first friends in San Diego - I have such distinct memories because she left a huge impression and mark on my life before she left to serve in China. Quang was a brother who was part of the church plant that I am also a part of here in San Jose.

The thought of them dating NEVER crossed my mind.

But that's the funny thing about time passing, people changing, and the sovereignty of God.

Because after Carol told me that they were dating and not be surprised if the next time we talked she had gotten engaged....well since then, and especially now, it just makes sense that she would be the one by his side.

With Carol being such a beloved sister of mine, I can't help but want the absolute best for her... and watching how Quang loved, cherishes and even challenges our strong superwoman, well, I can't imagine her with anyone else. :)

a 12x12 update

2011-12-12T10:55:00.000-08:00

Since it is now 12/12 (December 12 that is) it seemed fitting that I would give a 12x12 update. In October I made a list of 12 things I wanted to do before the end of the year.

Finish reading A Quest for More by Paul David Tripp.

I have progressed two more chapters in. Good thing I'm a fast reader. Since I get two weeks off from work before the end of the year I anticipate finishing this by Christmas!

Learn how to cook a steak and invite a few friends over for a steak and taters dinner. Pending...but planning for next week! Just have to decide which friends to invite....

~~Plan and go on a roadtrip (Santa Barbara or San Luis Obispo are the two top picks currently.)~~ Due to the craziness of the holidays and out of town visitors, the trip was canceled.

~~Deep clean and organize my desks at work and at home - currently driving me crazy!~~*Kind of cheated with this one.... At work: had to move cubicles at work so I left behind my dirty and messy desk to a new one that was already cleaned off for me. I did throw away things I didn't need. At Home: My desk turned into our dining room table for the time being and all my knick-knacks that were cluttering my desk are still in boxes...that are neatly stacked in the corner.

~~Move into my shared bachelorette pad!~~After finding a two story, two bed 1.5 bathroom townhouse, in the most perfect for us area, we a had successful moving day on December 3 that went off without a hitch. While I worked hard at unpacking, still in the process of nesting though I can't manage to get myself to commit to any wall art.

Take Caltrain into The City....and spend the day in the city exploring on my own.

Find a flea market and go vintage shopping.*Went to an antique mall yesterday, and while that was cool, I'm not counting it since everything cost an arm, a leg and my first child.

~~I started a makeup portfolio earlier this year...I need to update it with more current photos. Or just figure out what in the world I want to do with it, in general.~~ *Decided that makeup artistry will remain a hobby for me, mainly used when friends need my help. Might update the portfolio in the future but no need to do so now.

Speaking of makeup....deep clean and wipe down all my brushes, cases, bags and products. This one could take a whole evening, i'm sure *Cleaned ALL the brushes on Friday night for an early morning bridal party. But, now they are dirty again. Will shoot to finish this one this week.

Bake a cake, from scratch. And if it doesn't turn out right, try it again.*Will do either this week or next week. Hmm, should start looking for the perfect recipe for a rookie like me to try...

Walk for three miles without stopping.

11a. Take a hike in the fall weather.
*I think I'm going to do this on Saturday morning before my out of town guests arrive

Take a photo a day during the month of November! * Was close, but I'm pretty sure I didn't make it for every day in November...:(

and I'm now adding a few items:

Shoot the basketball around once a week. * Which means I have to go buy a new one, I guess since that one that I had fell out of the back of my trunk.

Make pumpkin mochi to thank our moving helpers!

Write Christmas cards with meaningful messages for co-workers and friends at church.

Visit extended family in Sacramento.

Hopefully I'll have an update with all these things checked off...and pictures too!

on the move

2011-12-07T10:11:00.000-08:00

Please excuse the long pauses between posts.... I've been in the process of moving (both my home and within my office at work). I'm not one that can stand having boxes standing around for long so I anticipate that the nesting process may take a bit of time too... oh boy.

Hope you're enjoying our Autumn/Winterish weather!

The Earth, The Sun and The Moon

2011-11-29T10:22:00.000-08:00

Something tells me that as our little Jamie gets older, she's becoming more and more loveable. This past week she and I progressed in our interactions - she not only laughed and smiled at me (one of the few times, believe it or not) but she actually "talked" with me while we got her dressed for the Park Family photoshoot. (Even Momma Joyce was marveling at her response).

If this continues, I might be in trouble. I will want to get her the sun, the moon, the stars....whatever she wants. Seriously, after being a Christian, being an auntie is one of the best things in this life!

The An Boys

2011-11-15T11:58:00.000-08:00

Things I really REALLY love: HUGS

2011-11-09T05:18:00.000-08:00

I started this post back when I was reflecting on the things I love.

But never finished it in time to include it.

Yet this post is just too good to pass up.

You can convey a lot with a squeeze. At least, I think I do. Whether its the "Tackle hug", the "Dogpile", "The Side Hug", "The smother hug", "Arms Only" , "Sandwich hug" or the "HUG OF DEATH", I'm not picky. I can appreciate them all. :)

I think that Shel Silverstein was really on to something when he wrote Hug O'War.

And when I look at these precious photos, I can recall the exact moments that lead up to the hug. Some are friends that I've had for a long time celebrating a super happy moment (or even a really bittersweet one), other are hugs for just complete appreciation for who the dear friend is, as a person and how they've affected my life. Even more remarkable are hugs that have come after hard times, fights and then reconciliation between sisters. And still even more of these photos convey what I can't accurately say in words - how much I care for them. Honestly, a lot of these hugs and the photos that captured them are some extremely memorable moments in my life.

Is that too much love for you?

It's just enough for me. :)

Photo a Day in November: Week 1

2011-11-07T11:31:00.000-08:00

Taking a photo a day is an item on my 12x12 list (and I think one of the few items i've actually gotten started on...)

Here's a set from November 1 - November 6.

{new glasses . november1}

{makeuptrial&error . november2}

{missing my SD buddies . november 3}

{breakfast . november 4}

{cold&rainy yet warm&cheery . november 5}

{fall classic champions . november 6}

{reflections: }

The exercise of remembering to take a photo each day initially was because I wanted to challenge myself creatively - I have certain angles that are just automatic for me now and sometimes, that's when they stop being exciting. However, a second challenge cropped up and its actually far more significant than than just keeping a creative edge. As I start to wind down my day (and lose that precious natural sunlight that I often depend on for photographs) I start thinking "What is significant enough for me to take a picture of and post about? The naturally following thought is "What did God bless me with today? What do I have to be thankful for?" Even though I may not always feel like it, there is always an answer to that question - there is always something to be thankful for in each day and it is always something that I don't deserve.

I was reading Psalm 104 on Saturday and it talks a lot about how God provides for his creation, whether its through providing shelter or food….all good things come from his hands. And likewise, enjoying things without acknowledging God as the source of goodness and grace is actually meaningless.

So I'm thankful that i was able to see that in real life over the weekend. A lot of times things happen and if i don't like it my first reaction is to question the goodness of God - but that's very opposite of who he is. He is a good God, and everything he does is good, whether or not i like it. I was thankful to Him for giving me the mindset of seeing his goodness in everything and building more trust in his truthfulness and as a LOVING heavenly father.When talking to a friend, I was reminded that everything is from Him, through Him, and to Him. For his glory forever {romans 11:36}

I will sing to the LORD as long as I live;

I will sing praise to my God while I have being.

May my meditation be pleasing to him,

for I rejoice in the LORD.
{Psalm 104:33-34}

Saturday Inspiration: In Your Arms by Kina Grannis

2011-11-05T01:02:00.000-07:00

I seriously HEART Kina Grannis. I think she's just gorgeous and so talented. I could listen to her sing all day long....her covers always give off a heart-on-a-string edge with her vocals (My favorites are her cover of Demi Lovato's Skyscraper and Fast Car with Boyce Avenue) but some of her original songs just slaaaaaaay me (Like Valentine and The Way You Are). She has this talent of taking everything a girl's heart feels and painting a picture of the angst, the heart palpitations, the joy that you feel when the one you love is nearby.

In Your Arms is no exception. Simple lyrics but a beautiful melody.

Not only is this song adorable...but the video is amazing.

So if you were left thinking "WOW, how did they do that, get ready for even more amazing with watching the Behind the Scenes of the MV using jelly bean art!

Enjoy your weekend!

the best thing i ever ate

2011-11-03T15:37:00.000-07:00

One of my besties was inspired to write about a common love of ours....

F-O-O-D.

I do love food. But I also don't like it. I never realized until I was about 24 that I am a PICKY eater. Or rather, is particular a better word? It's not that I have expensive tastes (I shamefully have to admit that I am one to load up on caesar salad, corn and dinner rolls at buffets) I just....like what I like. And I do not like peas, carrots, bean sprouts or lima beans. I don't even like thinking about them.

And this post is about what I do like. Well not just like, but I would even dare to say I love...
Well if you have ever eaten with me, you know I love ice cream, cheese sweet potato fries and sushi.

HUNGRY YET?

Best breakfast i ever ate: Mission Beach Cafe's wild mushroom benedict. I loved it so much that I have dreams about it.

best sandwich i ever ate: veggie melt from The Market Place Deli

best burger i ever ate: easily The Burger Lounge

best refreshing thing i ever ate: Oysters from Hog Island Oyster Company

best refreshing thing I ever drank: Ice Blended Mocha from The Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf (my favorite drink of all time)

best cheap food i ever ate: Tacos from Tacos Del Gordo

best expensive thing i ever ate: All you can eat Korean BBQ at Palace BBQ Buffet

best fried thing i ever ate: krispy kreme fried chicken sandwich at the San Diego County Fair.
Sweet + Salty = I die. (Honorable Mention: Chicken & waffles from Roscoes)

best out of state thing i ever ate: bbq sausages and chicken in Ostrava, Czech Republic

best food truck dish: Lobster rolls from Sam's Chowdermobile

best thing i could eat for the rest of my life: California rolls from I think its the only thing that I can't get tired of. Whenever i can't really decide what I feel like, I find myself at the sushi section at the japanese market.

{Supplies from Mitsuwa to make our own California Rolls}

best hole in the wall dish i ever ate: Being a socal girl at heart, I gotta go with Pollo Asado fries from Super Sergios

best dessert i ever ate: it's a tie between Willow Glen Frozen Custard and Blood Orange Ricotta Torte from Extraordinary Dessert. Now, if I could just have them together....

{Did I mention that I LOVE ice cream?}

{The best gelato in Vienna, Austria}

{Smitten Vanilla Ice Cream with almond toffee topping in San Francisco}

{Black Sesame Ice Cream from Bitter+Sweet in Cupertino}

And a special shoutout to my friend Eileen....who i automatically associate with food. Some of the best meals I ever had were with her. But I'm pretty sure it was because of the company. And because she didn't judge me for eating the krispy kreme chicken sandwich.

like Caro requested...PLEASE send me your list, so that i can go out and be filled. :)

Memory Lane: Fall Festivals past

2011-10-31T13:27:00.000-07:00

For a creative mind like mine, Fall Festival (a halloween alternative at church) always presented me with the opportunity to become someone else for a day, and even better - create a whole cast of characters to join me in the adventure.

I would spend weeks prior to the night shopping, painting, cutting and pasting back together until I saw my vision come to fruition. I really enjoyed the challenge of taking everyday things and repurposing them as costume elements. I'm not sure if it was fortunately (or unfortunately as we sometimes looked just plain CRAZY) but my friends would agree to to buy into my crazy and Disney inspired ideas so I would do my best to make it as cool as possible. That usually meant that I didn't sleep the night before but always, in the end, it was worth it. Each year grew in complexity and I can only attribute it to God that I kept my sanity.

While my mass production costume days are behind me (at least until I have kids, I'm sure), I have no regrets for all the time and energy I put into these crazy ideas. I have some really awesome memories from the past few years. And was actually able to make some closer friends through the madness.

And for all my friends are who are groaning and mortified that these photos have surfaced, don't worry...I won't ever make you do it again. :)

The Incredibles! (2007).

Alice in Wonderland! (2008).

Toy Story! (2009).

{I didn't have anything to do with my nephew's costume but I loved having him at church with us that night!}

Have fun tonight and be safe!

Life in the Yay Area: Returning to Santa Cruz

2011-10-27T09:49:00.000-07:00

The tail end of summer, unplanned trip to Santa Cruz, twilight on the Boardwalk, fried food and funnel cakes, bonfire and bonding moments... Definitely unforgettable.

can't fight this feeling

2011-10-24T14:58:00.000-07:00

You know what A REALLY good feeling is?

When you can't stop looking at a photo. Especially one that you took.

Oh yes, and being love. Also a really good feeling. :)

the hope is love. (part II)

2011-10-20T23:45:00.000-07:00

The reason why the flowers smell sweet

The reason why the birds sing

The reason why the wind shines

The reason why the moon revolves

The reason why I convey my love to you like this

It’s all so you can love someone someday

The hope is LOVE LOVE LOVE

LOVE

Maddie Charis has made her debut in the world (I am more than eager to meet her) about a month ago....but looking at these portraits of her dear mum and dad are holding me over until I see her face to face. And I hear that she was blessed with her mama's face.

While I knew that they were waiting for her excitedly from day one, I'm sure it can't compare with actually being with her. With the love and tenderness that Mike & Jen have always had with each other (especially this evening) I praise God for not only giving her life (which is no small thing), but for giving her a really loving family to call her own.

I'll see you soon, my dear.

The Little Prince {Jayden's 1 Year Portraits}

2011-10-19T14:03:00.000-07:00

Happy One Year, Jayden!
No longer a drooly, roly poly baby, but truly a loveable little man.
{It's amazing how time flies....he was just six months old the last time I spent the day with the Cuevas family!}

Life in the Yay Area: Goooooo giants!

2011-10-17T22:34:00.000-07:00

I went to my second Giants game at AT&T Park in August, when my dear friends from Czech Republic were visiting the Bay Area. It was Becky and Ted's first game too....when you combine that with garlic fries, hot chocolate and a victory for my team, in one of my favorite places in SF, it doesn't get any more "YAY!!!" than that. :)

Baseball with my best buds, yes, so happy.

My goodness, we're such junk food addicts.

You can see the fog start to roll in....

GIANTS WIN!!

12 x 12 --> 12 Things to Complete by 2012

2011-10-14T11:35:00.000-07:00

So I've been a rut.

Ironically it happened shortly after I concluded my "Things that Make Me Smile" series. A rut of bad, bad habits: messiness, fast food dinners, losing important things (like keys, credit cards, receipts, bills), too much time on the internet, taking the elevator, running late....and I also had a growing list of good intentions that weren't flushing out into reality. All in all, this is NOT how I want to end the year.

But thank goodness, inspiration came this morning, via Oh Hello Friend. Danni posted her 12 things that she wanted to accomplish before the end of the year in a list form, and good golly gee, I sure do love to make lists. I appreciated the invite to join in because goodness, I need to clear the cobwebs from my head and actually start doing things that are good for me, and good for those around me.

While somethings on the list are a given, as in they have already been planned, some of them are things I've wanted to do but more importantly, a few of them require learning. I'll do my best to update how I'm progressing!

Finish reading A Quest for More by Paul David Tripp.
Learn how to cook a steak and invite a few friends over for a steak and taters dinner.
Plan and go on a roadtrip (Santa Barbara or San Luis Obispo are the two top picks currently.)
Deep clean and organize my desks at work and at home - currently driving me crazy!
Move into my shared bachelorette pad!
Take Caltrain into The City....and spend the day in the city exploring on my own.
Find a flea market and go vintage shopping.
I started a makeup portfolio earlier this year...I need to update it with more current photos. Or just figure out what in the world I want to do with it, in general.
Speaking of makeup....deep clean and wipe down all my brushes, cases, bags and products. This one could take a whole evening, i'm sure.
Bake a cake, from scratch. And if it doesn't turn out right, try it again.
Walk for three miles without stopping.
11a. Take a hike in the fall weather.
Take a photo a day during the month of November!

After I started this post I thought to myself that it is a bit pretentious to think that you would care to read about my goals (like really, who cares if I clean my desk at work) but the important thing is....I would love to hear some of your goals! Let me know, in the comments below. :)

Happy friday...and Happy Autumn!

Things that make me smile #15

2011-10-09T22:07:00.000-07:00

....simple blessings for an undeserved sinner.

Things that make me smile #15

2011-10-05T06:53:00.000-07:00

....enjoying a bowl of yummy naeng myun with my best buddy.

Things that make me smile #14

2011-10-04T00:34:00.000-07:00

....the silly, the sweet and strawberry ice cream.

{happy birthday tia. :D)

Things that make me smile #13

2011-10-03T00:07:00.000-07:00

...eating and Yelping at the same time.

Things that make me smile #12

2011-10-01T00:15:00.000-07:00

....how beautifully little girls grow up.

Things that make me smile #11

2011-09-30T00:30:00.000-07:00

fierce hugs that are unrivaled.

Things That Make Me Smile #10

2011-09-29T06:16:00.000-07:00

....girls in white dresses.

{Disclaimer: none are the actual wedding dress she'll be wearing.}

Things that make me smile #9

2011-09-28T00:26:00.000-07:00

....three men and a baby.

Things that make me smile #8

2011-09-27T00:21:00.000-07:00

...salads and sandwich combos.

Things that make me smile #7

2011-09-26T00:17:00.000-07:00

....friends that I know are being dearly loved.

Things that make me smile #6

2011-09-25T00:16:00.000-07:00

...big bugger eyes.

Things that make me smile #5

2011-09-24T00:05:00.000-07:00

...playtime with Micah and Mommy.

Things that make me smile #4

2011-09-23T01:54:00.000-07:00

....friends that are near and dear. Not to mention when its having two sisters from opposites ends of the globe in the same room. Such a memorable week.

Things That Make Me Smile #3B

2011-09-22T12:31:00.000-07:00

....she's so pretty and he's so sweet.

Things That Make Me Smile #3A

2011-09-21T00:12:00.000-07:00

....hand in hand and cheek to cheek.

Things that make me smile #2

2011-09-20T01:51:00.000-07:00

...sunshine and smiles.

{photo by: hannah michelle}

Things that make me smile #1

2011-09-18T23:51:00.000-07:00

....undeserved surprise treats in the mail.

M is for Monday

2011-09-12T10:07:00.000-07:00

...and muffin as well as music...

Do you ever have one of those mornings when you cannot get up, get going, and get on your way? That was so me this morning. Even the emergency coffeestop (loooove McDonalds McCafe) didn't do the trick.

But its the magical combination of some inspiring (and just plain catchy) tunes and a homemade apple muffin that is making my least favorite morning more bearable.

Sometimes music just does that for you, ya know? Enjoy some songs that have been in rotation in on my iphone lately:

Hope you have a happy Monday!

the hope is love.

2011-09-06T14:43:00.000-07:00

I have yet another niece on the wayyyyy....

so much love for my brother and sister!

growing still

2011-09-01T08:59:00.000-07:00

The frames of the absolutely adorable Sophia.
{More images of the Kim Family portraits coming soooon....}

how does she know.....

2011-08-17T06:45:00.000-07:00

....you love her?
How does she know she's yours?
How does she know that you love her?
How do you show her you love her?

How does she know that you really
really truly love her?

....That's how you know he's your love.

(more to come!)

Weekend Warrior

2011-08-15T08:48:00.000-07:00

My weekend in snapshots....another one spent away from home.

An obligatory stop on the way to L.A.

Tools for survival.

My roommie.

Socal Trip = Finding the closest coffee bean

Classy and sweet.

Stunningly beautiful.

FINALLY.

I <3 her.

Back to the monday grind!

three days late...but worth the wait

2011-08-10T23:37:00.000-07:00

After trying to coax my niece out of her warm momma's belly for the past week, I got to sing happy birthday to Jamie for real today. :)

There are 30 minutes left today, so I'll say it again:

Happy birthday, pretty girl. I love you already. :)

Life in the Yay Area: Napa Valley

2011-08-05T16:50:00.000-07:00

In March my brother graduated from The Culinary Institute of America. He spent nine months studying at their Napa campus, also known as Greystone. It was pretty exciting to see him graduate for the second time, with this undergrad ceremony being just a few months earlier. Having been to Napa Valley only one time before, I was excited to see my family again and to revisit some beautiful architecture and OF COURSE, eat some really yummy food. It was a unique experience, especially since there was a three course reception lunch following the commencement prepared at Greystone by CIA.

I went crazy when it came to the dessert table. :) Because I have such a sweet tooth, but of course the sweetest thing was being with my lil bro. He's all grown up now!

My dad. :)

Look at that smile. It doesn't come out often.

I got a tour of the kitchen and baking areas where they did all their work.

soft and lovely

2011-08-01T22:28:00.000-07:00

I'm back from a week in San Diego and it was lovely.

A sneak peak of a family that I love dearly. :)

You Can't Hurry Love {Becky & Ted's engagement}

2011-07-28T14:39:00.000-07:00

This is one story that I'm not quite sure how to start....about my best friends, Becky and Ted.

All week I've been trying to figure out just what to say in my speech at their wedding on Saturday. Do I talk about how far God has brought our friendship, from being frenemies to confidants that know the deeper and darker struggles of our hearts? Do I talk about how God worked miracles by keeping them together through all they went through during dating, almost engagement, to finally having the proposal and now their wedding? Perhaps I should mention all the crazy times that she and I have been through? I thought about talking about the day when Becky told me that Ted had asked her to pursue a relationship and how I barely got in the car before tearing up because I was afraid that I was going to lose my best friend? The fact they are moving up to San Jose after the wedding and once again being close by wouldn't be a bad thing to mention as well, as I promise to cheer them on in their marriage.

Those would all make great speeches (and I think i've written pieces in my head over the past 2 years that they've been together).... and to be honest I'm still not quite sure how its going to all flush out but there is one thing that has been really clear. God has perfect timing in bringing them together, taking them through everything and sustaining them beyond their wedding day.

And I'm so happy that I get to be there for all of it. :)

Life in The Yay Area: Monterey Bay

2011-07-25T07:06:00.000-07:00

It's been about a year since I moved to Northern California. Honestly, I've loved it so far. I realized that there have been a few day trips and adventures I've taken that I've yet to share. This will be short series on where and I've been and who I went with!

Naomi and Becky COMPLETELY surprised me by coming up from San Diego to take Joyce and I out on an hoo-ha in October. (You might remember our last trip was to Tennessee). Joyce was in on the planning and refused to give me any details and just told me to make myself available. It was a super sweet trip to Monterey for two days. Of course memories were made, (that could go without saying) but what made it even sweeter is that this ended up being our last trip before Becky got engaged (and hence started wedding planning like a mad women) and we would find out a few months later that Joyce was going to have a baby!

Getting all ready to leave the safety of Cupertino. :)

Pit stop in Gilroy for BBQ in Gilroy!

Ready to see Monterey

This girl loves the animals. ALL of them. She is pointing to her new friend, the sea lion.

{Checking out some boats....this is when the infamous boat video from Becky's bridal shower was filmed.)

Deciding where to eat lunch was a fun ordeal. We sampled clam chowder from each and every restaurant on the pier. After taking into account where we could get the biggest discount, we finally decided. :)

They even let me order my favorite: oysters!

Starting the 17 mile drive. SO BEAUTIFUL.

They actually took this themselves while Naomi & I were climbing some rocks. (See below). Pretty good, guys!

Carmel by the Sea

Frisbee on the beach. This might be the fourth or fifth different beach that we've played on. :)

Lounging in front of Jane Austen at Home in Downtown Carmel.

Not surprisingly, I am however, the main Jane Austen fan in the group.

Last stop: Back home for some Willow Glen Ice Cream!

You might have been able to tell from the last few posts that this week is going to be a big one for all of us...Becky is getting married and Joyce is set to deliver ANY DAY NOW. Not that the fun trips have to stop (Naomi & Becky went on their last hoo-hah in Big Bear with Becks as a single woman a few weeks ago while Joyce and I spent the day in Half Moon Bay just last weekend) but it's CRAZY to take in the fact that a slew of brand new season of life is just about to happen. As Joyce enters parenthood for the first time and Becky becomes a married woman, I excitedly anticipate the adventures that are to come. : )

any day now....

2011-07-22T11:42:00.000-07:00

It's been (almost) nine months of anticipation and joy....

...it's so weird to think that by the time I come back from San Diego in 1.5 weeks....
my niece COULD be here!

{What better way to round out month #8 than with an improptu "photo shoot" with joyce in Half Moon Bay.}

Can't wait to meet you Baby!

little bits of life

2011-07-20T23:40:00.000-07:00

11 days to go!

2011-07-19T13:55:00.000-07:00

{and one more teaser of Becky & Ted.)

Sunshine and Smiles {Cuevas Family}

2011-07-08T11:20:00.000-07:00

When I think of J, K and lil J, I think of smiles. hugs and kisses. As I've been friends with them for awhile now, It's been so neat watching the Cuevas' grow as a family...such amazing parents already with abundant love for their son before he was even born. We spent the day in Berkeley and it was perfect weather with good friends - and it was my first time being in the area sine I moved up. We ate thai food in the Asian Ghetto, enjoyed our coffee in a leisurely manner at Strada, feasted on crepes, basked in the sunshine and to top it all off... Isn't little J just the cutest???

My favorite shot of the day.

GO Bears!

Thanks for taking me out for the day - it meant the world to me! :)

I love San Diego (a mini-announcement)

2011-07-07T16:14:00.000-07:00

{this is actually Santa Cruz but we'll pretend its not...}

As you may (or may not know) I moved last August from San Diego to San Jose to be apart of Lighthouse San Jose. While I don't regret it one bit, it's undeniable that life is different and somethings can't be replicated. This week I've been thinking about....

....Things I miss in San Diego:

California Burritos
Pollo Asada Fries
Chick Fil-A
The Coffeebean and The Tea Leaf
Hotel Hasegawa & Camp Tse
Boogie Boarding in Del Mar
Mild sunny skies with the ocean breeze
Surf and sand
Lighthouse Bible Church
....taking family portraits of adorable kiddos!!!

It's time to take care of ALL those things on that list! The last few times I've stopped by there have a number of families mentioning that they wish I were still around so that we could hang out and I could do family portraits for them. I'm always encouraged and honored when I hear that. But, I am happy to announce that I will be back in America's finest city for one week...July 25-July 31!

While I'll be in town because my best friend is getting married, I realized that I would love to take this opportunity to offer a limited number of family sessions on the front and back ends of my trip. This $125 family portrait special will be a one hour shoot in the location of your choice within San Diego and include a DVD of your images. There are only 4 sessions being offered during the week so please email courtlynn.photography@gmail.com if you are interested!

Ahhhhh can't wait to be walking on those sandy beaches soon. :)

the waiting is over

2011-07-05T10:43:00.001-07:00

Congrats T&J. :)

30 days to go {Becky & Ted - a preview}

2011-07-01T23:51:00.000-07:00

The Cutest Proposal {thus far.}

2011-06-30T11:10:00.000-07:00

When two of the cutest/funniest people get together, would you really expect anything less?

{It's a bit long but well worth it. Seriously, this will make your day.}

Congratulations Ed and Cindy and thanks for sharing your joy with the rest of the world!

Just the Way You Are

2011-06-28T11:08:00.000-07:00

More portraits of my super cute friends {brag, brag}

Trying to capture people the way I see them is a challenge that never seems to get old to me.

As much as people may think that their smiles are cheesy, their eyes are too small or don't like their smiles, when I manage to catch them in a moment where I see aspects of their personalities shine through, I just can't help but show them off. During a weekend of being with some dear companions, these are shots really captured how I see them but I think of like catching a ray of light off a prism. Sometimes its side of them that not everyone knows at the surface level. Whether it's Janet, our resident sweetheart, Naomi's growing gentleness, Anna's sophisication, Sarah's sweet side, Jen's hilariousness and exasperation with all our teasing, Joyce's adorable side, Andrea's goofiness and Becky's tender and protective love, I see it all.

And hopefully they would agree that I see them.

Blessings

2011-06-20T05:22:00.000-07:00

{My weekend in a shot: Joyce's baby shower.}

sweet TREATS!

2011-06-17T11:49:00.000-07:00

It's been a long week and I feel like I need some of theeeeeeeeeese.

What a week {random acts iphone-tography}

2011-06-10T15:37:00.000-07:00

Sprained ankle. Packing boxes. Moving day. Good roommates and great friends helping. Trashbags. Crutches. Bags of peas. Hellos and goodbyes.

Yet survived it. Not on my own, though. That's for sure.

Captured a crazy week through instagram on my iphone.

Spring is the thing

2011-06-09T09:00:00.000-07:00

Just reminding myself that the new things in spring are not always bad things.

Magical Monday: Soph, Heej & Noel {The Kim Family in San Diego}

2011-06-06T20:19:00.000-07:00

Monday's typically do not bring good news. Instead of being a field of daydreams, Sunday night is usually filled with dread of encountering an overflowing inbox of emails, noting just how many missed calls I had over the weekend....and meetings that I had managed to forget about over the two days at home. This particular weekend was a tough one as I had sprained my ankle right before the weekend...so not convenient, especially since I am moving in the middle of this week.

So when I want to be down, what better day to look back on a few shoots that I absolutely loved with amazing people? I admit...I have more than ONE of these in the can, and more than ONE coming up. :)

My last weekend in San Diego was spent with the Kim family... it was a PERFECT San Diego afternoon with Soph and her umma and appa....And when Heej told me that Sophia LOVES the water, I knew it was going to be a picture perfect afternoon. :)

Miss you guys...can't wait till our next family time together!

pretty young things

2011-06-03T15:04:00.000-07:00

I just want to take this moment to brag....

I think my friends are some of the prettiest gals ever. : )

And now they are going to kill me for posting such photos of them...but I couldn't help it.
{Photos from my bff's bridal shower...some shots by me, some by Jen.}

My hands have been busy

2011-05-25T23:46:00.000-07:00

Made combs for W's wedding, styled some hairssss and had a few requests to make some little girls feel very special.

and it's been feeling good.

Check the shop later this week for some new additions.

http://www.etsy.com/shop/greenteaandivy

coffee & snapshots {random acts of iphone-tography}

2011-05-21T19:58:00.000-07:00

{my happy place. coffee. rhythm of love on pandora. saturday evenings}

Road trippin' it

2011-05-17T10:00:00.000-07:00

Totally crazy weekend with 12 hours of roundtrip driving in less than 24 hours.
But you can get by with the right tunes, good questions and funny friends.
I've forgotten how much fun roadtrips can be. :)

when love takes you in

2011-05-13T11:20:00.000-07:00

Can't get over how stunning this family is.

And as I've gotten to spend more and more time with them, I think its because of how much love they have for each other.

J is going to grow up with more love than he knows what to do with.
it's really very awesome. to say the least. :)

2011-05-11T14:28:00.000-07:00

Joyful, joyful, we adore Thee, God of glory, Lord of love;
Hearts unfold like flowers before Thee, opening to the sun above.
Melt the clouds of sin and sadness; drive the dark of doubt away;
Giver of immortal gladness, fill us with the light of day!

2011-05-06T12:02:00.000-07:00

I have something very important to say today....

Happy birthday to the one and only, Lil To!

jump start my kaleidoscope heart....

2011-05-04T00:52:00.000-07:00

I needed a "pick me up" (and I'm staying away from ice cream for now) so I started looking through some photos from last year.

And something really obvious resonated in my heart. There's something special about having the kind of buddies who you adventure through life with.

Definitely gems in my book.

This photo was from my LAST weekend in San Diego when we finally went to breakfast together though we had been talking about it for a good part of the year. We had been planning a trip to Disneyland but with my sudden move to San Jose the very weekend we first thought to go, that plan had to be put on the backburner. Though we had hung out in pockets of time, after that particular weekend, I was SO SO sad to leave these particular gals, especially when I could see the potential for lifelong friendships burgeoning.

But believe it or not, we DID actually make it to Disneyland when I was visiting home for Christmas vacation! Our day in the happiest place on earth was one of the most perfect and chill trips to Disneyland I had ever had in my life. We laughed and ate all day. So refreshing to be together.

It was perfect timing to get to surprise and hang with my SD buds last weekend when I dropped by San Diego....good for my soul. We were missing someone physically, but she was there in our hearts...

{We <3 you Sarah!}

Love just talking about life with these gals - and even tonight we were chatting and Jen and I reflected on how fast life changes. Even with unexpected moves, navigating through the waters of relationships, growing up, dealing with houses, insurance and unemployment and especially serving at church, I'm always encouraged by hearing about the constant evidence of God's grace through our lives. Even if I hear about it just through video chatting (which I can't believe we have managed to do successfully with 6 people!)

So if could pick a theme song for us it would be this one:

Thanks gals, for being the pieces of my kaleidoscope heart. We're uncharting this together. I love you all. :)

A Weekend Well Spent {green tea & ivy}

2011-04-21T09:11:00.000-07:00

....worked hard this weekend to fill the shop with some new things, now that Spring is here!

Even though the hours of hand cutting and stitching pass so quickly, I can saw its worth it when i actually FINISH something.

Would it be silly if I walked around town wearing my own creations? Talk about all dressed up with no place to go. :)

All available for purchase in my Etsy Shop.

picture perfect

2011-04-09T21:58:00.000-07:00

It was truly a beautiful day in Berkeley today.
With a most beautiful family.

Seriously loving it.

you & i together

2011-03-28T19:24:00.000-07:00

Wury & Garrett are getting married,

and everyone knows it.

They are in love,

and everyone knows it.

They love to be together,

and everyone knows it.

They belong together,

and I think by now, we all know it.

another birthday, another city.

2011-03-26T23:48:00.000-07:00

{celebrating joyce's birthday in San Francisco.

AMAZING, right?}

frilly willy

2011-03-24T11:02:00.000-07:00

It's a really good feeling when you make something with your own hands and you can't believe that you made it. It's been a while since I had made any combs (not since Carol's wedding) but I had these really fluffy ivory flowers attached to a long stem (kind of like a freesia or a hollyhock, but not quite...maybe even a lisanthus). They were just so pretty that I was inspired. It's kind of embarrasing to admit that sometimes I'll look at both of these pieces for long periods of time and think "WOW. I made that and I REALLY LIKE IT. REALLY like it."

I know its not quite for everyday, but I'm still hoping that some brides will come along and sweep them away. Thought I might be sad to say farewell as I wrap it up and take it to the post office. I can just see it now.

{ellie dream} {marry me juliet}

{marry me juliet}

Both are available in my etsy shop: http://www.etsy.com/shop/greenteaandivy

{and if you message me with this blog post, I'll even give you a free shipping code!}

bonded for life

2011-03-23T09:45:00.000-07:00

{my dear C is headed to Socal to see her bff get married this weekend.
I snagged C&T's rings when I was hanging out at their house while they were doing dishes. So encouraging to hear about how marriage is a blessing.}

Channeling Julia

2011-03-20T21:28:00.000-07:00

It started with watching Julie and Julia.

So I tried. I really did. Inspired by Most Likely Late, I just needed to have a taste of Beef Bourguignon.

Not sure what inspired me to go to the store to buy an actual dutch oven and put in the 3+ hours of effort for one dish. It took that long to cook everything.

But hey, I tried.

And it wasn't bad, at all. This was shocking to me.

My foodie roommate actually enjoyed it! (Love ya Kim. :D)

{Used this recipe: The Barefoot Contessa's Company Pot roast;

Substituted apple juice for brandy.}

Bon Appétit!

looks like rain

2011-03-15T14:40:00.000-07:00

{regina in san francisco}

Christopher Robin! I think it would help with this deception if you would just kind of open your umbrella and say, "Tut-tut, it looks like rain."

-Winnie the Pooh

{And for those with troubles much more significant than just a few drops of rain. Please be praying for Japan! My thoughts are with you, Lynds, Kari & Jess!}

a million places at once

2011-03-14T06:14:00.000-07:00

I had a very busy weekend....lots of little projects that I'd alluded to early this week. But its an amazing feeling to be so productive. Not to mention less maddening to lay in bed and have less on my mind.

Well, the biggest project I worked on was opening an Etsy shop! I had a lot of mixed feelings about it over the past year even though I had the amazing opportunities to work on projects for both Steph and Carol.

I received some very timely encouragement (a big hug goes out to Cathie Hong) so I decided to make the jump and just give it a shot. Spent some time this weekend designing some BRAND NEW pieces. I have added them to the shop so please check it out. If you have request for a custom item, please let me know. :)

Please visit me at: http://www.etsy.com/shop/greenteaandivy

Thank you so much for your support. <3

sparks fly.

2011-03-10T23:55:00.000-08:00

After a longer than planned hiatus, I unexpectedly was inspired again.
I think it was just this week, but i'm not quite sure.
It just sparked something in my heart again.

And suddenly my hands are itching to go venture somewhere and shoot.
I have been wanting to keep awake all crazy hours of the night in order to craft.

I'm excited.

Oh yes, and visit my friend Moon, who makes things.
moonmakesstuff.wordpress.com

Soon enough you're going to see what we'll be making together.

Good stuff. It is coming.

Jane of All Trades {a reflection.}

2011-02-08T22:42:00.000-08:00

Today, I was curious. I really wanted to know if anyone out there was reading this. Well aside from my best friend and my sister.

Surprised to find out that I have 73 subscribers. I'm assuming the number is more like 72, because most likely I'm #1. The reason I was so curious is because for the first time, I seriously considered pulling the plug on this blog. I've changed a lot since I started it in 2007 and the reason I was blogging have too. Somewhere in never-neverland, I think I believed that one day, I really could have a fullfledged photography business. I remember being so passionate about it when trying to convince my mom that leaving my full time job wasn't a bad move. She put her foot down and said that I didn't have to stay at my current job but I didn't have enough of anything (experience, money, business saavy) to run a business.

It's not a bad thing that she was right. I never did get to that point and even more surprisingly, I got past wanting to do photography 24/7. I realized how much I would miss out in the lives around me and how limited I would be in being available at church.

Plus, other hobbies of mine were burgeoning.

I have a lot of hobbies.

Not quite sure how this happened, but I ended up doing Eileen's hair for Hanna and James's wedding. Well her and two other bridesmaids. Annnnnd many other bridesmaids over the past year.

I started experimenting with silk flowers and hair combs and then people started asking me to make them for fancy schmance hairpieces. You'll remember that season as my GreenTea & Ivy venture.

Then I got the amazing opportunity to work with REAL flowers and made a few bouquets for weddings. It's crazy. Waking up early, staying up super late. Toting buckets, worrying about temperature, wrapping and unwrapping...and I absolutely loved it.

Flowers from the Ko wedding.

Maria's bridesmaids bouquets

Maria's bouquet {photo credit: Cathie}

Alterpieces for Kev and Chels' wedding
(Totally yoinked this off Kev's facebook. Photocredit goes to Kiki Honda)

Kev's bout, Chel's bouquet and a snippet of what the bridesmaid's carried

{Photo credit: Kristin Chan}

I've done decorating for weddings.

{Carol dared to dream and I just had to find a way to make her vision a reality. The results were PRECISE. Photo credit goes to her wedding photographer, Brandon Kidd.}

With the need to do my own makeup for a wedding over the summer, and a bit of encouragement and a lesson or two from the amazing Stephanie Yu, I started playing around with makeup.

My gal pals allowed me the luxury of a makeup flurry while I did 4 of them before a fun photoshoot we did with Hannah Michelle.

{photo credit: Hannah Michelle}

Kristin's wedding - I did my own make up! I was so proud. :) And I also did Sabrina's hair and make up.

Then Karen asked me to do her makeup for her wedding.

Oh yes, and her four bridesmaids too. Whaaaat?

{Photo credit: Dan Baker}

I've enjoyed every moment of getting to use these hands to help other people in a myriad of ways.
And I don't know how to describe it, but somewhere along the way of flowers, lace, engagement shoots, hair combs and lipstick, photography stopped being fun. Other people seemed much more excited about learning and doing things with their cameras where as I felt chained down by having to carry mine with me. I would do sessions for people and they were fun...but I felt uneasy like I was going to let them down and not produce what they were hoping for. It felt like a lot of people were doing what I had dreamed of once doing, and much faster and better than I am. I would look at my shots and they...didn't feel special anymore. And I admit, blogging wasn't very fun because I had no idea if anyone was out there reading. {The proof is in the comments. :/}
I don't quite know what to do with that.

So, I'm still sorting things out. About once a day I think of the other directions this blog could go. And I can't believe I'm putting it out there. So for the 72 of you, Happenstance will still be around...and thanks for your patience with the lack of creativity. :)

In the Blink of An Eye {Tim & Karissa's Wedding}

2011-02-03T23:29:00.000-08:00

I remember....K and I were in fourth grade and she told me she wasn't allowed to play basketball. I probably rolled my eyes in disgust and tried to find someone less girly and frail
to roam around summer camp with.

We blinked. Next came countless exchanges of letters, nicknames for our crushes, sleepovers.
We always giggled at the thought of Karissa dating and who could
possibly be brave enough to face her brothers.

Somewhere along came basketball practice.
She is still the best sub on the basketball court that I ever could have.

BLINK.

And yes, Karissa became MUCH MORE of a baller than I did.
High school came and went. Varsity basketball for her, yearbook and choir for me.

We still giggled because really, who could win over her gorgeous face and loving heart?

Another blink and a blip of time....

Finds her in her blue and gold glory. Truly, a ridin' high Bruin at UCLA.
I make my nest in Irvine at UCI, yet we ALWAYS had time for Disneyland.

And then we heard that Karissa had a BOYFRIEND.
As in a real live, dating boyfriend.
Just a few years later came a ring.

Double wink.

We are all growing up so fast.

And here we are.

In N'Out, Portos and Shaved Ice.

Oh yes....and Karissa & Tim.

The BEST summer wedding food and totally gorgeous couple.

Somewhere along the lines her college buddies would become beloved Lighthouse sisters of mine.

She was just as dreamy as every Disney princess we ever admired

AWESOME shaved ice truck.

The Newlyweds. :)

MORE newlyweds. :)

Somehow, the simple decorations fit their Disneyland theme perfectly..

2011-01-17T20:19:00.000-08:00

Sometimes there is just a photo that you love.

And usually its because its a person that you really love.

It's My Birthday....

2011-01-09T23:39:00.000-08:00

by far one of my favorite cards to have in hand when playing Monopoly Deal...

but also of important note - It's my roommate's birthday too!

(gifts from our other two roomies)

We celebrated by inviting our friends over and making them a cake. :)

Thanks for all the well wishes....

Here's to another year of living in light of God's grace and goodness.

Under the Ginko Tree

2010-12-12T22:31:00.000-08:00

A preview of today's e-session with Wury & Garrett....

P.S. In case you didn't know, I decided to make a facebook page for Courtlynn Photo and I'm daily posing some of my favorite shots from over the years of couples, friends and family. It'll be fun to see how many of you guys end up there. Just search for Courtlynn Photo and you should be able to "like" me. At least I hope you do. ;)

Tis the Season

2010-12-08T23:14:00.000-08:00

oh how the glow for you

2010-12-03T10:39:00.000-08:00

My last morning in San Diego was spent with Gloria and her beautiful kids. I've always thought this, but just getting to play and pose them convinced me all the more of how GORGEOUS they each are. :) As hugs and kisses were abundant, I couldn't help but remember how much I loved being that age and how much I adored my own stunningly beautiful mom. :)

One day, I hope Caleb & Haeli still see how amazing there own mom is.