Pensacola, FL: Congratulations Gerald and Jenny Robinson!

This weekend I had the pleasure of flying down to Pensacola, Florida to witness and participate in the nuptials of Gerald and Jenny Robinson. The weekend was full of love and laughter. From the rehearsal to the couple’s send off, it was clear that guests and the wedding party had an amazing time. I myself didn’t want the fun to end!

Below are a few shots I took during the couple’s rehearsal dinner on Friday, June 25. I am proud to say that I have known both the bride and groom for quite sometime. Gerald is the brother of one of my closest friends (Cornelia Robinson). I have always known Gerald to be a generous, sincere, and loving person. I honestly can not picture Jenny marrying anyone more perfect for her than Gerald. Similarly, I think Jenny is the perfect woman for Gerald. I have known Jenny for about two years and she never ceases to surprise me with her honesty (with the exception of the fact that she won’t admit to being short), generosity, and adventurous spirit. She has been such an inspiration to me over these past couple years. Jenny has been so much more than a great friend to me. She has welcomed me into her family, mentored and supported me in my career decisions (and failures!), and pushed me to grow in ways I wasn’t sure I had the strength to. In short Gerald and Jenny, in their separate ways, have each been a blessing in my life. So I couldn’t be happier that they are starting their life together.

I wish you both many more blessings and an overflow of happiness.

Enjoy your honeymoon in Aruba!

Love,
- S. Christine

Amen, amen, and amen

Tonischia Purvis and I met our junior year of college when we were in the Miss Spelman College Pageant. Little did I know then that one of my fiercest competitors would become one of my dearest friends. Toni is one of my "besties!" We have shared much laughter, many tears, lots of secrets, and our biggest fears.

This weekend, never having been to the west coast before, I hopped a plane and made my way to California so I could salute my bestie's achievement and witness her walk across the stage. As I was en route to the ceremony, I sent her a text telling her to remember that I was there with her. She sent me back a text smiley face, not realizing that I was actually in California and would be attending her graduation. When I found her amongst her fellow graduates before the commencement processional, both of our eyes welled up with tears. I screamed, "We can't cry; we have on mascara!" We then burst into laughter and gave each other a big hug.

Trying to think of a word to describe Toni, the adjective "amazing" first came to mind. She always carries herself with grace and dignity, and she maintains a positive and enthusiastic attitude no matter what obstacles face her. She never lets set-backs stop her, and she constantly pushes herself -- and others -- towards the pinnacle of success. She is a full-time business owner, student, community servant, and an all around inspiration.

It is, both, fitting and proper that Toni received a Master of Arts degree in Christian Leadership. She epitomizes the meaning of Christian Leadership and embodies the principles of Christ in her daily walk. This is only the beginning.

I love you Toni. My prayer is that God continue to shower you with blessings you so graciously pour on others.

- C. Marie

Experiments in Black and White Photography

One of my favorite ways to practice photography is to shoot in black and white. Black and white photos rely heavily on composition, texture, and conceptualization (perhaps even more than a color photo). As a budding photographer, shooting in black and white is a great way for me to learn how to use a picture to capture emotions, develop concepts, understand light, and create a story. As I improve, I hope to buy a black and white film camera to pursue this interest further. Until then, I will continue to use the black and white settings on my DSLR and point-and-shoot cameras and simply enjoy learning and practicing as much as I can.

Below are a few pictures (in absolutely no sensible order!) shot in various locations and settings. They are pictures of friends, family, landscapes, and even a couple inanimate objects.

Enjoy!

- S. Christine

Congratulations Reina!

In my large extended family, Reina is one of the youngest of my cousins. She is one of the last to graduate from high school - but certainly not the least! She graduated at the top of her senior class, earned a near perfect score on her college entrance exams (ACT), and won a full scholarship to one of the most expensive private universities in the country, Kenyon College. On June 5, I cheered Reina on as she received her diploma.

I could not be more proud of Miss Reina. I wish her the best throughout her college matriculation and know that she will continue to amaze! Be on the lookout for this future author and poet laureate!

Congrats Reina!

Love,

- S. Christine

Dressed in Love!

This weekend I traveled to Columbus, Ohio (my hometown) to visit friends and family. While there, I spent time with my favorite couple – Christa and Julian. Christa and Julian are now engaged and plan to marry on September 4, 2011. Christa and I have been friends for many years. In fact, I no longer consider her my friend; she is the sister I never had! I have now known Julian for almost a decade and he has definitely become a part of my family. I couldn’t have possibly picked a better husband for my sister. These two compliment each other in the most beautiful way. I am so very happy they found each other and CAN’T WAIT until their wedding ceremony!

Below are a couple pictures of the future Mr. and Mrs. Thompson. I snapped shots of them while we visited the site of their upcoming ceremony. More pictures to come . . . .

I love you guys!

- S. Christine