Tuesday, November 17, 2009

arizona

a few weeks ago, some of my girl friends took me on a weekend trip to arizona for my birthday. (i have absolutely amazing friends; more on that later). it has taken me a few weeks to post about this, mainly because it took me so long to get the photos together.

arizona was great. i had been there many times before, because my father lived there for about seven years. i had really wanted to take Jarronn there. to see the grand canyon. and sedona. a new part of the world. i unfortunately never got a chance.

this trip was special, because outside of knowing i was flying to arizona, i had no idea what the weekend had in store. as with all major events/occasions these days, i headed into the weekend in a bit of a funk. it's hard to get excited about things in the same way i used to. my normal attitude is to jump into things head first and ensure a good time for myself and others. but lately, i feel like i've lost some capacity to do that, and when i realize it, i'm depressed to see how i've changed. that i'm not quite myself.

but the weekend definitely got better. that's what happens when you're surrounded by amazing people. they took me to sedona, where we drove through the red rock mountains. we climbed the vortex and felt the peace that comes from seeing how spectacular God's work is.

my friends made me laugh. made me relax. got me a massage. got me full. made up my face. made me dance. made me cry. gave me a rock. gave me memories. and gave me power -- in the form of a purple bracelet. :-)

if you're going through something difficult, i highly recommend taking a trip somewhere. it doesn't make everything different or change circumstances when you get back home. but there's something about how different scenery can take you to a different place, if even mentally.

enjoy the photos...

7 comments:

  1. These pictures are amazing! I am one of those people that whole-heartedly agree that taking a trip can change your outlook on life when you are going through a tough time. It looks like there was fun had by all. What a wonderful experience!

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  2. It's such a blessing to be surrounded by wonderful friends who will hang in there with you through thick and thin. I love Ashley's hair! Nice pics. Thanks for sharing! I am so glad to hear that you enjoyed yourself!

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  3. the pics were awesome. you're really blessed to have such wonderful friends.

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  4. Thank you for sharing. You really have beautiful friends. I also have a purple braclet similar to the ones you all have. Mine have 4 strings. Amber gave it to me. I will wear it Thanksgiving so you can see it. I agree getting away is good for you that is why I am looking so foward to going to Jamaica. I took off the Jan 5-15. So anytime during that time frame is good for me.

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  5. Jessica, you have such great friends! I am so happy that all of you were able to take that trip to AZ together. Sedona is definitely a beautiful place!

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  6. YOOOOOOOO! This was such a hot birthday gift...great friends are awesome. Really makes me think of my 25th Bday when my Relentless Fam had a brunch for me and surprised me with a brand new laptop...

    Glad God has provided ppl around you to help you and carry you through this time. I pray that ur outlook was lifted because of the Glory of our God...

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  7. You all are just beautiful. Looks like it was an awesome time.

    Pay it forward, Steve... my 25th will be here in a few (abt 15) months! Las Vegas will do. Wait this isn't Facebook... will Steve ever see this comment? lol

    Happy very Belated birthday, Jess!

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