In a Thousand Words or Less

Here’s a post just ’cause I’m grateful for what I’ve got. The economy isn’t the greatest, the summer is sweltering and muggy, I’ve got bug bites up and down my legs, and I’m still living with my parents.

But life is way more than just sulking in what isn’t ideal. Life to me is just enjoying when things go right and learning from when they don’t.

I was thinking about how blessed I am. I’m free. Every terrible thing I’ve ever done — every selfish thought, foolish action and hasty word — has been set right. I’m free.

So I celebrate. Celebrate life, love, hope and the huge adventure that awaits me. My life is an open book –  and I’m doing what I love to do!

So here’s to what I am thankful for — right here, right now.

I’m so thankful to have food on my table. I know it seems silly or sort of like what your mom would tell you to scare you into eating your brussel sprouts, but most of the world doesn’t have the luxury of a fully stocked pantry. I’m blessed. (And this cereal was awesome.)

I’m really thankful for parents that love me and that hold our family as a very high value. I’m thankful that they took the time to teach me what was right and to correct me when I was wrong. I spent a lot of time thinking they were wrong. I was wrong, and I love them very much. (Even when they text me the results of the US-Spain game before I get to watch it!)

Family Time. Outside, in the sticky summer heat. Gotta love that I can just be with these people because I want to.

The love of a beautiful woman. She loves God so much more than she will ever love me. She encourages me and keeps me going when I’m stubborn. And she really doesn’t need me. But she wants to be with me. Wow. I’m thankful.

I’m also so thankful for being able to help out at Kimberly Smoot Photography. Two really great people there have been a blast to work with and joke with. Lex and Kim, you guys rock.

I got a great education, I live in an amazing country. I know why I’m on Earth. I have a car. I can walk, run, hear, speak, smell, taste, and feel. I’m not sick. I get along with the people who are closest to me. I have a nice bed to sleep in. I’m not in debt. I’m content. I’m in love. I’ve got a place to live. I’ve got GREAT siblings. I’ve got a computer that works great. I’ve got a guitar that holds a tune. I’ve got a cell phone. I have amazing friends.

I’m just blessed.

::jer, thankful style::

I had the privelege of spending time with my good friend Andrew Woolbright this afternoon. Andrew is one of the most devoted and enjoyable people I know. We’ve known each other for a while (he used to beat me in Pokemon when we were WAY younger) and I really respect him and the work that he does.

If you’re wondering what he does, Andrew is a painter. He is gifted with the ability and patience to paint gorgeous portraits. They aren’t a traditional set of portraits. They are something more. As you stand in front of the very large (6′x6′) paintings, you see and feel the texture that works together to bring the pieces to life. The pieces are gorgeous and the body of work is becoming more diverse and intriguing as paintings are added.

I could say more, but I’d rather just leave it to speak for itself.

Check Andrew’s work out at: www.andrewwoolbright.com.

Here are some of the photos from today. I’m glad to know this guy and can’t wait to see where his work goes as time goes on!

Check him out. He’s awesome.

That’s all for now.

::jer::

© Jer Nelsen 2009 | Please don’t steal.

Being a photographer, I try to be as diverse as possible. I was really excited to get a bid to photograph Indianapolis. So I decided to grab my camera and just explore the city. It was a really good time and I really, really enjoy the city. I’m excited to go back now that I’ve got a feel for it.

Laura met me downtown last night and we had a great time together. She met up with me again today and we wandered explored the city together. It was a scorcher, but she let me take some photos of her and I really like them. So I decided to share them with you!

Ciao!

::jer::

[please don't steal.]

Took a couple of models out on a shoot for fun. I’m pretty sure being a photog is the best job in the world.

Sorry for the dust spots. Most of these are straight out of camera.

In Him,

::jer::

Copyright 2009 Jer Nelsen Photography | Please don’t steal!

Oh man. Busy busy. Here’s a quick one. Sorry for the brevity!