Chiaro Perfecto

Life-Long Beat

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Tue, 01 Jul 2014 22:20:00 +0000

Is there something that just is a part of you? Or hobby or interest that seems like it has been with you all your life?

Meet Judy Wood! She is now works out of KBella Ray's. K Bella Ray's is in Dr. Parkey's office, right here in Seminole, TX.

As I got the VIP tour of the facility, Judy explained how she has always had a passion for skincare. She shared that since she was a teen and struggled with acne, she was constantly trying different products. Judy is licensed and has worked for a dermatologist office, in a salon atmosphere, and now in a medical office. The office is quiet and private. Make an appointment with Judy Wood or soon to be licensed-Aide Lopez. They offer many different services from facials, laser hair removal, and skin care products to follow up your procedures. Check out K Bella Ray's on Facebook to keep up with promotions.

Our conversation continued and Judy stated, "All I want to do is help others feel good about themselves." Nothing confirms that more, than the ability Judy has to listen and thoroughly explain the services and products.

All or Nothing

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Tue, 25 Mar 2014 18:12:00 +0000

I met Beth a few years ago. I was totally drawn by her upbeat sweet spirit. Her laughter is contagious and when she is around you are bound to smile. You just can't help it. I absolutely love that this "business" of body treats remains consistent. As I spoke with Beth she said, "It's God's business. He will do with it, what He wants. I have to remind myself of that daily. However, in doing so.....I am reminded of His faithfulness every step of the way."

So find a minute, for yourself or even just to bless someone. Buy a product and "treat" yourself. While you do, stop by and say hello. I promise you won't regret it.

"For I know the plans I have for you, says the Lord, plans to give you a future and a hope." Jeremiah 29:11

Facebook: Body Treats by Beth

Body Treats by Beth

C&L Wedding

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Fri, 21 Mar 2014 17:02:00 +0000

I have to say that I have been to many weddings. However, I have never been to one where the bride totally enjoyed her time and company. It was such a delight to see the bride laugh and not stress, usually not the case. Both families were so welcoming and fun to be around. However, more than anything......Liz thank you for reaching out and extending a friendship. You are a true gem. Thank you!!!! Thank you for allowing me be a part of your day. Wishing you guys the best!!!

BLOG CIRCLE: TRANSITION

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 18 Sep 2013 03:40:00 +0000

Transition....change....it happens every day---wanted or unwanted---every season---in the weather--in fashion---as every school year begins---gains---losses---the list goes on forever.

Oh, how I welcomed summer. Popsicles on the back porch, water fights, lazy mornings, mud fights, looking at the stars on the trampoline, story time at the local library, exploring the neighborhood as the sun was setting, the screeching high pitched shrills that only meant----my children's delight over the simplest of things....all left too soon. Summer was sweet to me to us. Now, the weather has gotten a bit cooler and the sun is setting sooner. The school bell has become part of my daily routine. Time to juggle many roles in my life. Daily life isn't so simple.

As summer came to a close for me, I visited with this woman on her front porch. Granny D said life was a gift. I needed to accept it, walk in it, and give it away. It wouldn't be until then, that I would be truly satisfied. As we continued our deep rooted 'Life Talk', I looked up and she had her feet curled up and hand on her face. It was as if we were life long girlfriends having an ordinary long chat.-one of my sisters. I had to capture her, she looked so natural. Granny D is 94 years old. She ended with saying good bye and assuring me she was ready. "I have lived a good full life."

As I drove away, I stopped in an open field.....I meditated on what she had shared with me. Something shifted on the inside of me. I choose to no longer seem 'in a hurry'. I am choosing to enjoy the moment. My marriage, my children, my photography dream, my life and all that I desire all do not have to be a certain way or fit someone else's mold. I am learning it is a part of me. Yet, it is what is because it is not my job to control it. It is my job to experience it. To let it BE.

Check out my fellow photography teacher, Nikki's blogpost on Transition.

Blog Circle: Simplicity

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 21 Aug 2013 12:19:00 +0000

In the every day tasks, we often get lost. Stress and anxiety begin to build. As a woman, a momma, a wife, an employee, a volunteer, a daughter, a sister to a soon to be bride.....well, I often truly get lost in the day to day roles that I have to fulfill.

Yet, this summer in the midst of loss, grief, stress, and many other emotions...I found myself seeking peace. I soon realized that in all my tasks I had forgotten to take the time to be grateful. My good friend Summie had recommended "One Thousand Gifts" to my friend Tina. I decided to find a copy and began reading. My search for peace soon was conquered. I started looking for the small things in my every day to be grateful. Soon I started giggling at loads of laundry fresh out of the dryer, the birds singing on my back porch, watching it rain, my children's uncontrollable laughing, a pile of fresh vegetables-locally grown, watching my children sleep, going to Redbox and renting a good movie, spending a long summer evening with an old friend, making a new friend, watching the sunset, laying in the backyard on our trampoline and looking at stars with my children, blowing bubbles, and laying out twinkling lights on the back porch. My list could go on and on because I challenged myself to stop looking at my circumstances and to keep it simple. I don't know what you might be facing today, but I hope you can at least take the time to look at things simply and find all the many ways that God has blessed you.....and smile.

Check out my fellow teacher, Kelli and her blogpost on Simplicity. http://kellikalish.com/blog/simplicity/

This was one morning on my way to my hometown. It was not by any means under good circumstances.....but I looked over and just had to pause and take this photograph. So much was already on my mind and on my heart. However, this photograph represents the simplicity of the dawn of a new day and water, which can quench a parched soul.

EMERGE: Berenice

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sat, 20 Jul 2013 15:12:00 +0000

"I will praise thee; for I am fearfully and wonderfully made: marvelous are thy works; and that my soul knoweth right well. Hello name is Berenice. I am 20 years old. I can truly say that I love life. When I hear the word life there is no other thought that comes to mind other than we are here to complete our purpose and the will of God. It might not be the easiest thing to do. I love worshipping God. He has give me the ability to play the guitar and I can't thank Him enough." -Berenice

You never know who you are gonna meet as a photographer. But that is the best part of what I do....meeting all the different people and all of their stories. I had known of Berenice but had never met her. Throughout our photo sessions and long chats, screaming at the thought of snakes, shooing away bees, and laughing uncontrollably----I feel like have her known her a lifetime.

Berenice is a college student, who plays for a women's soccer league and loves God. I am so honored to have spent time with her and gotten to know her. I wish you the best Berenice in all you do. By the way Happy Birthday!!!!!!

EMERGE: Luz Veronica

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Fri, 12 Jul 2013 12:46:00 +0000

Dreams and desires can be one day and not the next.

When did you stop dreaming? When did anything become impossible?

LIFE

The word "life" in our english grammar is a noun. However, we tend to make it a verb quite often. More so when we are talking about "life" happening and getting in the way of our dreams or our emotional state. Used as a verb, "life" becomes so powerful and carries negativity. A word that is meant to flourish becomes a word that stagnates.

Back in March, I lost my sister and best friend, Arely. The very things that made me get on to her....are the very things I miss. Don't think I have ever known someone who loved life so much. All the details, long talks, pranks, and every day routines are all things I miss. Arely imprinted my life with her infectious laugh, sense of humor, and giving heart. Her love for life and acceptance of herself has empowered me to step forward into the fear that will fuel me to go forward. She taught me so much with her words but more by her silence.

I stood at the edge of the ocean and cried out to God because the pain was more than I could bare. How could someone so full of life----flourishing---make everyone beam with delight---giving---upbeat---and true......be taken. Taken from this world and taken from my everyday life????? I yelled out as if someone would answer me. I cried as if no one was present. Yet with every crashing wave, every sea gull's call, with every spray of water, the wet sand beneath my feet and the mighty rushing wind that blew across my face......I knew He was present. God in that moment allowed me to fall apart.

As I cried and could cry no longer, I found myself. Not that I was physically or spiritually lost.....but lost in the sense of a girl who use to laugh, use to dream, use to give, use to embrace each day with a purpose.....had allowed "life" to happen. Everything I had experienced along the way up to that point had set deep root in me. All of those experiences-good, successful, bad, trying(more than not) had severed my life line. I no longer lived my life. I allowed life to happen to me and define me. I stood still and I realized for the very first time in a long time.....I was present. I was aware. I was engaged. I was grateful. I could feel my every breath and feel my every heart beat. Whoa!!!! Life......so real. For hours I sat and just took in all of God's creation and sat in complete silence. It was then that decided I would choose to LIVE life and not allow it to happen to me or pass me by.

It was from that moment on that I decided to accept myself. All that I am and all that I am not. All of my dreams and desires. And all of my poor choices and all of shortcomings.....it was ME. All of me....take it or leave it. Love me or hate me. Embrace me or pass me by. Hire me or don't hire me. Take my class or don't take my class. And all the in between. Here I am. Present and savoring life in every moment that God graces me.

It was then that my dream and God's desire for my life was to help women of all ages see themselves in His perfect light-to embrace all of who they are right in this moment-to rekindle those dreams-to help birth new dreams-to be gentle-to be sweet-to be true-to be transparent-to be real-to be fierce-to lead-to ignite & burn brightly in their communities and in their families. I am so excited to feature a woman and her story every Friday in blog feature....EMERGE.

WATER

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 19 Jun 2013 14:22:00 +0000

In West Texas we have an abundance of water but it is all under ground. It is used for drilling oil field operations. It usually is stored in water stations to help out that industry. It is not drinkable water. Our land is dry and parched. We depend on many different types of sprinklers or water pivot systems to water our lawns and crops. Unlike many places in the United States, we have to depend on rain. We pray for rain often and you here that conversation all over town. However, when it does rain....farmers are happy and so are the kids. We take the time to watch it or go play in it. Or we go find somewhere to enjoy it, like a water park.

Check out what my friend and co-teacher Jess has to say about water, Jess Roberston Photography

Man of His Word

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sun, 16 Jun 2013 23:18:00 +0000

Our country has founding fathers. Men who helped shaped this country. There are men who have gone down in history for taking the industrial reigns and paving the way for generations to come. If asked, I am sure many of you could name the men who have changed the world in technology and social media. And yet, who I will write about today has never won an award, a nobel prize, has not been recorded in history for anything he has invented or created. However, this man is a man that forever changed my life and I know helped shaped the destiny God had for my life. My Father

At the age of 2 we were visiting my grandparents in Mexico. I came down with cholera. Immediately, I was brought back to the US and admitted into the hospital. After battling for my life in ICU facing total dehydration, I flatlined for over 8 minutes. The doctors pronounced me dead. My dad at the time knew of God but did not know God, stepped out of my room and proclaimed Jeremiah 33:3. He asked God to meet him in that moment. He asked God to give life back to me and he would serve Him all the days of His life. He hasn't stopped since. As I contemplated on what to share, I was reminded of all the things that my earthly father has instilled in me....what he is to me.

-Strength

-Guide

-Teacher

-Love

-Direction

-(when needed) Correction

-Protector

-Counselor

-Unfailing

-Provider

-Example

-Honor

-Man of his word

As I wrote these words in my morning pages, I realized that those qualities, titles, adjectives perhaps all could be used to describe my Heavenly Father. I thanked God for my dad today for all that he has been for our family, continues to be, and all that I know God still has in store for his life. Gratitude overflows because I am so blessed to have been raised in a faith filled home. My dad honors God with striving to serve Him and instill His word in us----now son in-laws and grandchildren, too.

I have been so blessed to have many Fathers of Faith in my life. I have seen them serve God with integrity, lead their families, honor their wives, and lead congregations to worship God. I am so blessed. Several have not fathered their own children but have stepped in to fulfill the void.

For my husband----I am thankful that the Lord who is my Redeemer....restored and renewed US!!! Thank you for the father you are to our children. Thank you for the love and honor you have for me. Thank you above all for choosing to love God with all your heart. I am blessed to have you in my life.

Happy Father's Day!!!!!!

My Daddy and Momma

REFRESH

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 22 May 2013 16:23:00 +0000

I must say that when I hear that word all I can think about is water. Whether I am drinking it or swimming in it. Refresh reminds me to be made new, to be joyful, laughter, memories, and new perspective. Although there are many ways to refresh my spirit, mind, emotions, my will, my soul, the one true thing that refreshes me is making memories with my family. As a working mom with a "side business of photography", I have to be intentional when it comes to spending time with my children. Two weeks ago we made an intentional Saturday. I remembered as a child that my siblings and I would go to a small amusement park at the end of the school year. My parents would take us and it was like announcing "Summer had arrived!!!" The amusement park was our beacon of delight every year for all of our school years. All four of us are grown and have our own families now. We decided to revisit our old childhood playground. Wondering if our kids would enjoy it as well. They absolutely loved it!!!!! As a mom, a woman, a photographer sometimes you just have to feed your soul. I was able to stop thinking so technically and just snapped away and capture moments with our kiddos. So take some time to feed your soul. Remember why you became a photographer in the first place. Go back to the basics. Be intentional but most of all HAVE FUN!!!!!!

My fellow teachers created a blog circle. Check out MeRa and her version of Refresh.

Vacation vs. Legacy

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 15 May 2013 18:12:00 +0000

Wow!!!! 5 days have passed since our last Word&Spirit service. It was an intense life changing week. I delayed in posting the last night's images because I wanted to save them for today.

Physical healing, perceptions changed, mental bondage....broken, relief, peace, renewed passion for Christ, satisfied, salvation, recommitment, face to face encounters, super-natural, true worship....the experiences and transformations are each honorable in the eyes of God. He was there. He led us to His encounter. However, I am led to remind you of Rev. Marie's charge...."will you be the same next week. Or will you be different?" It makes me search deep within. Will the word of God take root in my heart and bare fruit in my life? Or will this past week just be that..the past?

We have all gone back to our daily lives. You may be facing doubt. You might be facing strife in your marriage. You might be facing illness. You might be facing the job you hate to get up to every day. You might be facing differences with your close friend. You might be facing doubt/unbelief. You might be facing financial ruin...even though you have given everything in obedience to God. Whatever the situation will you be the same???

Are those worship songs just a memory that give you the warm fuZZIES? Do those scriptures you notated just another way to bump your ego by causing the "wow-factor" on your Facebook post? When you see these images or any of the previous week do you just laugh and make conversation that leads your ill-willed heart into weak conversation about your brother or sister in Christ who may just be struggling as much as you are, on their journey????

The choice is yours.....let this be like a good vacation...oooohs and awwwws. A few good photos and stories for a lifetime. Or will this be the proof of the week you decided to take a solid no more wishy washy stance for Christ???

Everything or nothing???? In or Out???? LIVE IT LOUD!!!!! I dare YOU!!!!!

In God's Perfect Light

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sun, 12 May 2013 22:55:00 +0000

Today is a day of true overflow of love pouring out all over the world. The outpouring crosses cultures, races, and ages. A simple gesture in giving a token of appreciation no matter how big or small brings many mommas to tears. This week as a school teacher, we were busy making all kinds of gifts for our moms. My students took pride in making, writing, and carrying all these tokens home. My heart sank as one of my students is not with her mom, but an aunt. She was a little sad at the beginning of the week. We were busy writing an acrostic poem about mom. I approached her desk and she was crying. I asked what was wrong. She continued to explain the situation, which I knew quite well. I wrapped my arms around her and asked God to give me the right words.

It made me realize that as a mom, woman, teacher, step-mom, child of God, friend, daughter, and mentor........I am a woman who fulfills many roles. As a mom....I am a chameleon. Beginning as a desire in my heart, I fought-prayed-longed to conceive and birth a child. Let alone be up at all hours of the night-sacrifice my wants for their needs-and now.....desire more than anything to guide them and show them the truth and knowledge of God's word. Never in my life had I longed to be raw, transparent, and genuine, than in this moment now. Not only for my children, but for every student, friend, my children, sisters, and every single woman out there. It has taken awhile but God has taken me through a process where I have learned to see myself in His perfect light.

Today

-I am thankful for my mom who birthed me, who helped shape me, who loves me unconditionally

-I am thankful for my own two children who allow me to be honored with the title-MOM

-I am thankful for my step-daughter who without in my life, I would have never realized what is like to CHOOSE to love someone.
-I am thankful for my mother in law who has made become an expert in my love walk.

-I am thankful for students who I get to love all year long and who remind me of my calling as a mom to my own children. Who make me better and who remind me to love.

-I am thankful for every single woman that God has placed in my life as an example to me of what it is like to walk in God's perfect light. They sharpen me, they challenge me, they love me, and then cheer me on. Thank you!

As I hugged my student and cried with her, I was reminded of how truly blessed I am. I also stated to my student that it didn't matter if her biological momma was in her present life. Each woman in her life a mother or not, could love her and influence her. She was blessed beyond measure with women in her life who loved her-who were believing for her success-who hurt for & with her-who knew without a shadow of a doubt she reflected goodness in God's perfect light.

HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY!!!!!!!!!!

Chiaro Perfecto Photography is honored to have found a genre to represent. I am proud to announce and invite you to hire Chiaro Perfecto to capture YOU-baby girl-tween-adult-mature-mid-life-grandmother-momma-woman.... in His perfect light. We will begin offering workshops and photo sessions specifically designed for women.

For more information on upcoming photography workshops, click on the link below

http://store.merakoh.com/Veronica-Bernal/

Thankful for my momma and who I love with all my heart. It is through her that I have been able to endure all that has come my way, clinging onto the promises of God. She is an example of giving up her desires for our needs. She is one of my biggest cheerleaders for fulfilling the calling God has on my life.

Thankful for my pastor, as she has been an example-cheered me on-and who teaches me with the word of God. More than anything she has given me the opportunity to translate for her and be a part of her vision. To reach the entire world with the message of righteousness.

Thankful for bible study leader who shared on many occasions her struggles, heartaches, but reflects God's goodness through it all. Teaching me to rise up and keep going and allowed me to share my story in our circle of women.

Thankful for spiritual leader who inspires me with a challenge to be a solid God fearing woman....to not be shaken or moved.

My photography mentor, who saw something in me and has loved me through it all. She is transparent and inspiring. She has a huge vision for women across the world to empower them with the vehicle of a camera. I am so honored to work alongside her and my team of 1-4.

Abundance.......

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Fri, 10 May 2013 18:40:00 +0000

¹⁰

"Glory in His holy name;

let the hearts of those who seek the Lord rejoice." 1 Chronicles 16:10

Are You In or Out?

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 09 May 2013 18:14:00 +0000

Have you ever entered into praise & worship without praise & worship music?

Last night, we did. It was one of the most powerful, freedom, outpourings I have ever experienced. The Holy Spirit took the lead and we followed. Healings, restorations, declarations, and the Word of God all came forth. If you are following on LiveStream or actually attending…..I know you might be questioning returning. You might even question attending for the first time. You might find yourself afraid to participate. It is ok. We get in our own way. We get in God’s way of moving in our lives. It is hard to let go. I used to be a control freak. I had to plan it all. I had to research it all. I had to know all that would happen from A to Z. I needed to “take care of things” to make sure they got done correctly. I have learned to let go-to enter in-to follow-to kick fear in the face and just jump in. At times am I still scared to enter in???? Yes. But I know that the moment I do….I won’t be in control. I won’t know what is up ahead in that moment….let alone 1 year-10years down the road. BUT I would rather enter in and experience ALL that God has for me….than live without His presence or without His blessing or time with Him in that moment. I know I probably scare or shock people around me at times when I do enter in. However, you have no idea where I have been or the junk I have been through. I have reasons to praise Him!!!!!!!

I am here share that the moment you stop spectating and start participating….you WILL receive

Your

…….Healing

…….Miracle

…….Financial Turnaround

…….Answer

…….Comfort

…….Place

…….Peace

…….Freedom

…….Breakthrough

REJOICE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

RESERVED

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 08 May 2013 18:48:00 +0000

re·served

1. Slow to reveal emotion or opinions.

2. kept especially for a person or specific purpose.

The Holy Spirit is a gentleman and will not be quick or forceful in your life. He is there to guide-to lead. Brother Jay Hoskins, last night, gave a perfect example. He described opening and closing doors for his wife, then girlfriend. Bro. Jay acted as gentleman even though he knew his wife was perfectly capable to do that for herself……he led. Will you allow the Holy Spirit to lead you?

Last night’s service, was completely led by the Holy Spirit. People entered into worship-totally surrendered-cried out to God-received declaration-received the Word of God-received healing-were renewed and transformed. There is a seat reserved just for you…..kept especially for you….for a specific time….TONIGHT!!!! Come as you are and allow the Holy Spirit to lead you into the deep.

EVERYTHING OR NOTHING

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Tue, 07 May 2013 14:18:00 +0000

Have you ever watched a James Bond movie??? Every time he engages in a scenario with winning against the bad guys he gives it his all. It is what keeps us on our seats while we watch. He holds nothing back. Adventure!!! Excitement!!! Suspense!!! However, have you ever paid attention to the fact that in these action-good guy vs. bad guy movies, there is always some kind of command? Someone or some agency is always leading or guiding the good guys. Commands are given and he/she is loyal....will lay their life down. Everything or nothing.

Last night as service began, I shot the picture above. Lord, you be my command center. Holy Spirit, you guide me. 007......Everything or nothing.

Will you give up everything or nothing? Will you give everything or nothing? Will you accept everything or nothing???? The choice is yours.

WORD & SPIRIT 2013......CONVERGE

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 06 May 2013 12:21:00 +0000

Our culture is an instant gratification-quick fix-the sooner the better kind of people. We have conditioned ourselves, even with the means of social media-drive through restaurants-microwaves-smart phones, to get what we want NOW. (I am thankful for these advancements) However, when it comes to spirituality we are sometimes closed minded as to what to receive or even how quickly we receive it.

The past week our pastor gave us the opportunity and challenge to prepare for this week's revival. Our church held prayer all week long. I have been on mission trips to other countries where I have seen miracles take place. Now, I know now it isn't because those people are special or love God more. It is because their hearts were prepared and expectant. I truly believe God is willing to answer our prayers and move in our lives as quickly as I hit this button to post this blog........but will your heart be prepared and will you be expectant?

Dr. Larry Hutton

Fold'em or Hold'em?

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sun, 24 Feb 2013 14:36:00 +0000

Wheweeeeee!!!!!

When you get to walk in God's freedom, there is nothing sweeter!!! This weekend I was able to tell my own story, not have someone tell it for me. All my life I have allowed others to tell my story----past failures, defeats, hurts, shame, and even the successes. I shielded myself with pride. However, no more. I was able to stand before a room full of women and share MY story. Trusting God was scary but I am so thankful I obeyed. Freedom came when I got to share out loud what I had faced, what I am facing, and what I struggle with daily. When you are transparent.....REAL.....RAW.....it allows people to see who GOD is in it all. The world is craving for authenticity, something genuine, something real.....when we allow pride to set in, all they see is what we want them to see. A false sense of perfection is set when they attend church. If they only knew church is just a gathering for forgiven sinners. Through it all try to find reasons to be thankful......grateful. I don't know what you are facing or where you have been BUT will you make the choice to be grateful? What are your 10,000 reasons????

The Love of the Father

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 14 Feb 2013 14:56:00 +0000

Sunday I was able to witness one of the most moving ordination services. My pastor was honored in ordaining his son Benjamin. It moved me because I know what it is like to be a pastor's kid. The road is long and hard. You have a different standard held to your life as you are growing up. You also see all sides to a church. It can encourage you but it can also discourage you. I was so moved that after serving God as a kid under his father's direction, Benjamin and his wife would choose to serve God alongside Pastor. Three different generations were represented. Pastor Gary Delay, pastor's father, was present to charge and pray over Ben and his wife.

I know today is the world's way of expressing Love. I decided to post these pics today because to me....what greater love than the Love of the Father, our heavenly father. These pictures display God's love. His love in my Pastor's family-----and their love for God. They strive to live out what they preach in our church and our community. What greater love......than that of the Father!

"For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son that whoever believeth shall not perish but have everlasting life." John 3:16
The largest expression of Love.
Happy Valentine's Day!!!!

Standing....

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Fri, 08 Feb 2013 16:55:00 +0000

Let me stand like a stalk of wheat-full of grain, yet vulnerable enough to be shaken by the winds.

However, oh God I stand confidently rooted in You. The storms of life may come but the grain that falls is not lost. It is to be shed to bring forth more life....NEW life.

Use me today, oh Lord to sow new life to those around me.
-Veronica

Haven't Landed, YET!!!

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 06 Feb 2013 17:01:00 +0000

This journey is long, quiet, lonely, at times chaotic....but it is MY journey. At times, I question all that is going on and all that is NOT going on. Yet, I know without a shadow of a doubt that I am right where I am supposed to be. I know because God is at work in my life even through the regular daily things preparing me for the calling He has on my life. He is working out issues in my life, building my character, preparing me for what is to come. This 'waiting time' has driven me crazy at times. However, I am learning to trust Him. I am learning to appreciate the regular. I am learning to strive in excellence even the every day-what seems meaningless to-do's.

I know I am meant to teach, and I can't wait!!!!!

Olivia Act

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Fri, 11 Jan 2013 15:19:00 +0000

If you are not an educator or work in the school system, you have probably once thought….what a job? What do you do all day? Holidays off? Summer breaks? Wish I had a job like you. Well, these words have been darted my way many times.

Yet, as educators, we know that there is so much more to our day than teaching reading, writing, and arithmetic. We are the first person these students see each morning. For some, we are the safe place. Others we are the beacon of light, laughter, peace, or hope. For many students, school is where breakfast and lunch are the meals for the day. Running copies and planning a lesson are the norm. It is when we get the chance to teach a life lesson that makes our job extraordinary. We love even when we think it is not possible. We trudge through the challenges and welcome the chance to break status quo. We even juggle all of the paperwork and standardized tests required for each student. And we do it gracefully with a smile on our face, no matter how pointless it may seem. We teach manners when there are none. We raise the standard in our students’ lives or challenge the present one. We work hard and long hours, shortchanging our own families at times to grade papers, plan for the next day, or plan the holiday party coming up. We give an extra needed hug. We stand in the rain holding a crosswalk sign so our students will safely cross the street. We rise early in the morning fighting wind, rain, and snow to make sure the lights are on in the building and children make it school on time. We cheer on our students and give them a familiar face in the crowd as they race towards the academic finish line. We find any string of hope or ability in a child and make it the avenue where we can tap into their mind and their heart. These men and women rarely make national headlines. These men and women are the people that I have the honor of working alongside each day.

Administrators, teachers, librarians, counselors, cafeteria workers, custodians, and bus drivers

Our principal quickly reminded us after that tragic day, “It doesn’t state anywhere in your contract that you are to sacrifice your life for your students. Yet, dare I say….I know any one of you would.”

The events that took place in Newton, CT. Hit home in two VERY distinct ways in my life. I am a 2^nd grade teacher. As I listened and followed, I read and heard stories of many valiant educators that sacrificed their lives for their students. I asked myself, Why am I here?

As the days went on, and information about the families and even letters and stories arose, I questioned myself as a photographer. Would my work stand the test of time? Am I reaching all of the possible families and clients that are within my community? Not so much as a paying client but as a client that would be thankful to have the memories when the day came that someone was called away from this earth and their lives. I look forward to my appointments and shoots. I share a special bond and a true honor to be able to capture life moments for my clients. However, I also remember what it was like when I didn’t even think about capturing my family, life, and moments. I also remember when life called out so loudly that a family photo shoot was a luxury not a necessity.

I am here to join in with fellow photographers and offer a free family session. The Olivia Act, named after one of the children killed in Newtown, was started by Leslie Spurlock Photography. Olivia’s family had family

pictures taken a short time before she was killed on that horrible day.

Upon hearing about this, Leslie was moved to give away a 30-minute family

photoshoot and has challenged other photographers to do the same. I know

that not all families have the resources to have photos taken every year, but I’d love 2013 to be the year for one of them.

While I have not been actively advertising my Photography business, nor have I been updating my website on a regular basis.(school has been my top priority and will continue to be for a while) I would like to participate and give a Family Portrait Session and some prints to a family in West Texas and the surrounding area.

I will be taking nominations for a West Texas family who you think would appreciate this gift of memories. The session will take place sometime in the month of February. Email me your nominations to chiaroperfecto@yahoo.com including a brief message on who you’re nominating and the reason you’d love for them to receive this. I will

contact the nominator and the family chosen via email, so please include that as well! I'll be taking the nominations until January 20th.

Please SHARE this status so your friends and family will know too! Can’t wait to gift a family with these memories that can’t be replaced or taken away!

And fellow photographers, please think about participating in the Olivia act too. You can "Like" the Olivia Act page on Facebook...

-Veronica

Out with 2012 & In with 2013

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Tue, 01 Jan 2013 02:41:00 +0000

As I reflect on this year, I am my heart is overwhelmed with gratitude. Look at what the Lord has done!!! Thank you to every single one of my clients this year. I was truly blessed in meeting you and shooting your moments in life. THANK YOU!!!! I am excited to serve you in 2013!!!! Here is to all the new clients and shoots in 2013, I look forward to meeting you and capturing you/your family.

I would like to take the time to invite any young lady, new mom, mom of many hats, and grand-ma's-momo's-nana's-gigi's and so on.....to put those cameras to work this year 2013. Capture those moments with those you love most. YOU with YOUR camera. Take a look at my workshops and sign up!!!!

NOW OFFERING WORKSHOPS IN 2013!!!!!

Check it out!!!!!

http://store.merakoh.com/Veronica-Bernal/

Drumroll Please........

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 31 Oct 2012 11:53:00 +0000

Wow!!! It has been 3 years that my life got shaken and stirred up with my long lost passion of photography. God has blessed me immensely! I have crossed paths with some amazing clients and friendships have been formed. My work has started to evolve. I have acquired more technical knowledge. I am so thankful for the blessing of having women in my life who speak my lingo. share my interest. speak my language. inspire me. Priceless. They are my fellow teachers!!!!

In my journey in tapping back into this passion of photography in my life, I crossed paths with MeRa Koh. I walked away with lifelong friends, technical knowledge, and above all the confidence to step out and follow my dream.

Today I am honored to say that I was selected to join her team of Confidence Workshop teachers!!! We will launch a series of workshops throughout this next year. Our mission is to empower women all around us to pick up their cameras and document their families lives. We as women, as mothers, end up with the responsibility and for some the desire to take pictures. We take pictures of all kinds of details of our families lives. Little league games, dance recitals, holidays,...and the list goes on and on. What can I say????

How many of us have picked up our cameras shot away and once we got our photos back realized our shots were too dark or too light. A pile of paper ends up in our hands and the moment is lost. Or what about when we first get our photos developed or even taken with a professional photographer and we are so excited to show everyone....all of a sudden a few months later...they die in a drawer tucked away. I too was once there. This workshop doesn't necessarily mean you are looking to start a business. It is an avenue for you to know your way around YOUR camera. To use it. To enjoy the images YOU capture! If it means a dream is birthed inside of you...so be it!

To sign up for a workshop near you....check this out!

http://store.merakoh.com/Veronica-Bernal/

Set Sail

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Tue, 30 Oct 2012 16:52:00 +0000

As I packed my bags I giggled. I asked myself, " What are you doing?". The entire day as I traveled, I couldn't believe where I was headed. Seattle Washington. I met some of the most amazing people.

Throughout the weekend of sharing, teaching, and getting to know one another, we shared the same vision. As women we take on so many roles in our families and for our families. Our needs get pushed aside in the name of our family, but are we really sacrificing???? Our wants and dreams die or go into an idle state. However, after leaving Seattle that weekend. All I could say was, how can I teach my kids to follow their own dreams when I won't step out in faith and follow my own dream.

I don't know what is up ahead but I trust God every step of the way. I caught the vision and am so glad to be a part of this journey. Excited and anticipating where it take us!!!!!
-Veronica