Love What You Do

“You can reach a certain level with your education, your talent and your ability, but it’s the goodness of God that will open doors you could not open on your own.”



San Pedro, CA

Every new day as soon as I open my eyes I make it a priority to say these three words, “Thank You God!” We have been blessed with a brand new day and that is a good enough motive to be thankful. After that I seek for ways to stay motivated throughout the day. You see I’ve been searching for my dream job, one that you love so much you don’t consider it a job. One that you don’t dread going too and the hours just zoom on by. This love to share my talent and abilities is top on my prayer list. Looking forward to new beginnings and soon you will know what I have wanted to do. For now writing for those of you that read my blog is what I love to do. So I encourage you to stay focused on your goals, those doors you’ve been patiently standing in front of will open up for you too.

Happy Wednesday!

x-Luisa

Positive Tuesday: The Narrow Road

Los Olivos, CA (KaLu 2012)

There are two roads in this world: a narrow one, full of life and hope, and a wide one, the easy way many choose to travel in. I have chosen to walk through the narrow path because its promises are more than I can ever ask for: Love, Hope, Blessings, Happiness and Life. In this world it is important to love yourself because if you don’t then who will, put yourself first. Then plant that seed of Hope in your heart, opening the doors to new opportunities which in return will be blessings. All of this combined brings happiness something needed on a daily basis which will bring life to your mind, body and soul. Stay focused on that road with God and you will find all the positivity needed to brighten up your day!

 

Thank you for stopping by!

 

x-Luisa

Motivational Monday

I decided Monday’s will be Motivational Monday's! So its time to share a dosage of motivation:

Griffith Park -Mini Forest, can you spot me?

On Saturday, my sister and I hiked up a trail through the gorgeous mountains of Griffith Park to one of our favorite destinations (we call it), The Mini Forest. It takes a few steps and you are surrounded by towering trees, beautiful greenery, a sun that is trying to peek thru the trees and chirping birds, it’s all very magical. It’s like entering this other world of solitude, it’s quiet and you are surrounded by nature…what more can you ask for after a tiresome/stressful week of work. The weekends are when I recharge, look for ways to give my body the energy it needs for a fresh/positive Monday. You see work has a way of sucking you dry of all the fun energy and that leads to stress. Stress is what I am constantly battling, I hate it! Which is why I find ways to de-stress and stay motivated. This weekend I exercised, read a book, and even napped! I tell my friends I’m in need of a vacation and September needs to come soon. Meanwhile, I try to make the best of the weekends and I treasure my time away from work. I continue to pray and search for ways to inspire, and I came across the following verse:

I have told you these things so that you can have peace in me. In this world you will have troubles. But be brave! I have defeated the world! – John 16:33

 

Stay Positive!

x-Luisa

Kate Middleton: An Exemplar Woman

I had a delightful conversation with a close friend of mine yesterday which led to today’s post.

Congratulations Will & Kate on your beautiful baby boy, Prince George!!

The entire world waited, the entire world watched and as the hospital doors opened we saw Princess Kate and Prince William emerge just hours after welcoming their sweet little boy. Every aspect of their body language could not deny that they were utterly succumbed to what they called an “emotional time” (just like any couple in love who have become new parents). They held their sweet little boy and talked to the media, and I joined the royal baby excitement as well. I’m sure you all have seen the photos but I wanted to highlight how radiantly beautiful Kate Middleton looked. She was beaming! She constantly reminds me that she is just a normal person, a woman, a wife, a mother... just like you and me. Although she is royalty you can clearly see that she is humble and caring. There is no doubt that this little Prince will be adored, cherished and loved just what every child in this world needs.

x-Luisa

Dream

As a little girl I dream of becoming a Nurse; I clearly recall drawing myself in a white uniform. As a freshman in college I looked into becoming a Marine Biologist, Pediatrician and Accountant (just to name a few) but that didn't happen, although it's not too late yet. Maybe your dreams were similar to mine or have changed with age and time. Maybe you are still working on making your dream come true. Whether it's a career, a job, a business, an idea, buying a home or a car, marriage, finding your soul mate, starting a family, etc. I am here to remind you that even though dreams may fluctuate should always keep believing that God can make the impossible...possible. Always reach for the skies, making history, leaving a mark of success every day. Like this beautifully engraved sandstone adornment, given to me by my bff, says: "Don't dream your life, DREAM...live your dream."

Until next post.

x-Luisa

Thankful

I witnessed an event yesterday that required all of my strength to not go weak on the knees. Then later that night as I lay in bed and closed my eyes I thanked God for that extra inner strength that just kicks in when I need it the most. I thanked Him for my family, my friends, my health and overall for the air we breathe. Don't live life in a constant run, it's very important to really stop and smell the roses. You'll be thankful for that interruption in this fast pace life.

Have a nice weekend!

x-Luisa

Echo Park Lake

 

 

Whether its morning, afternoon or evening…sun, rain or wind we Southern Californians enjoy walks through the park. And now that summer is finally in full-swing we find ways of staying fresh as we begin to hit high 80’s to 90’s. Today I wanted to share with you a park that brings back many childhood memories. Built in the 1860s as a reservoir for drinking water, Echo Park Lake is an iconic landmark just a few miles from Downtown Los Angeles and right behind the hills of Dodger Stadium. After a two-year rehabilitation project the park is now open to the public. When in town come and visit. I know for a fact that the Echo Park community is waiting for the annual Lotus Festival. Meanwhile, I am waiting for them to open that little station with those colorful rowboats so I can go right under the fountain.

Thank you for stopping by!

x-Luisa

Sunset, Clouds and a Mountain

Elysian Park (Los Angeles, CA)

Nature and its majestic beauty! There are times when I snap random photos and I end up deleting them, they just lack a story. Now this one makes so happy because I was able to capture this perfect setting. Taken from the second floor of my aunts apartment we can see the sun setting on the west as many cumulous clouds gather above the Elysian Park Mountains.

"Let the heavens rejoice, and let the earth be glad" -Psalms 96:11 

Happy Tuesday!
x-Luisa

What I Believe

“There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear...” (1 John 4:18, NIV)

 



I believe in God and his everlasting love. And the best way to share His love is through the  Scripture. As a reader , always seeking how to inspire, I am subscribed to Joel Osteen's Word of Day and I just have to share with you a few things that I just couldn't resist keeping to myself.

• There is nothing you can do to make God love you more and nothing you can do to make Him love you any less.

• His arms are always stretched out toward you, and He is always ready for you to come to Him.

• Sometimes people aren’t sure how God feels about them. They think He might be mad at them, but scripture tells us just the opposite. God’s not mad at you; He’s madly in love with you!

• Open your heart to Him today and receive His perfect love.

Happy Friday!

x- Luisa

Souther California: Places to Visit

Photoshoots are always enjoyable because they are premeditated visions that come to life, and the outcome feeling is ‘oh so rewarding.’ However, the random photographs that we (at KaLu) take of the places we visit, allows us to capture the essence of why we decided to visit in the first place. Today I am showing you a few landmarks and cities I would encourage you to visit if you live or are visiting Southern California.

Getty Center (View of Downtown Los Angeles)

Newport Beach, CA (Pod of Bottlenose Dolphins)

Somis, CA - Highway 34

Los Angeles River

Angeles Crest Highway 2 (La Cañada to Palmdale)



San Diego, CA - Balboa Park

x Luisa

See the Light, Follow It

Taken by KaLu (Los Angeles Crest Highway Tunnel)

A few years ago I found myself in a moment of career desperation. I was searching for answers and maybe I still am. At that time I wrote an article for Latino LA called "Soaring Around, Above and Through Life" (go check it out). I’m a strong believer of patiently waiting and trusting in God because His plan on how I will achieve my goals is going to be way better than what I have in mind. Which is why I will share with you these words of wisdom that where given to me when I needed it the most: “Take a little time to reassess (and heal emotionally) and then push on. Hold on to what you've got, plan on ways to move up, and be sensible, which I know you will be. All you need is one break. It will come. Just make sure you're ready when it does and keep your feet moving."

Life will have its ups and downs; there is no manual to follow. When you feel stuck find ways of staying afloat. I turn to writing, photography, and just making others smile.

Thank you for stopping by!

-Luisa

Patience

Patience: the capacity, quality, or fact of being patient (I never understood these definitions that included the word within the definition, makes no sense).

 

Let’s try another one.

 

Patience: tolerant and even-tempered; the capacity for calmly enduring pain, trying situations, etc.

 

Have you ever had your patience tested? Well, mine was the other day and the way I reacted really left me thinking. Which is why I am here, writing about what I learned versus going on a tirade about how it all happened. I know it sounds boring and you want the juicy details but to prevent further emotions of infuriation to creep back out I will just simply state that I chose to not get mad and just change the subject. The same way you can’t live life afraid, well you can’t live life mad, upset, infuriated, annoyed…the list goes on. Why? Because you are only hurting yourself. I know that what I am about to say sounds very childish but the best way to handle people with a bad attitude is to be happy. You fight the evil with good. Next time give it a try, don't get mad just change the subject, you'll avoid having high blood pressure ;) .

 

Smile, be happy!

 

-Luisa

Stress Free Weekend

 

 

 

We all have those weekends that just fly and we wonder where time went but when that one weekend, where the calendar is empty, comes around well if you are like me I just take full advantage. Now, let me just tell you how much I love nature,  and if you are like me I like to spend those two days out on the road away from the city. First of all, a special thank you to my BFF and her BF for inviting us to our first bonfire this summer. It was filled with laughter, fond memories, yummy hot dogs and s'mores!! We watched the sun set on the west side at the beautiful Huntington Beach, where I was able to meet Kyla Ross (member of the gold medal-winning US Women's Gymnastics team at the 2012 Summer Olympics aka The Fierce Five). I was super excited! Then on Saturday with a full gas tank we ventured out to the city of Thousand Oaks where I visited a horse ranch and met Ace. One day, in the near future, I would love to own a horse... as you can see we had a special bonding moment. Hope you also had a pleasant weekend! I look forward to these stress free days, they just give me the energy I need for a brand new work week.

x-Luisa

Happy Fourth of July!

Happy Fourth of July everyone! I couldn't help but reminisce my years in elementary school when I would salute the flag and sing "O, Beautiful" every morning. We indeed live in a beautiful country, so let freedom ring. We salute those men and women who continue to fight for our freedom every day. And may God continue to bless the USA! Happy Birthday America!

Have a fun and safe celebration!

x- Luisa

Seek Inspiration

 

Every morning when I open my eyes, regardless if it’s a Monday morning or the weekend, I thank God for a brand new day. I’ve made it a routine to meditate on his word and seek him through prayer.  I personally don’t consider myself a religious person but more importantly maintaining a spiritual and communicative relationship with God. As a big reader I find it quite fulfilling to see how others inspire you with a simple photograph, quote, bible verse or article. Insignificant words that when placed together carry so much meaning. And what I enjoy the most is reading what I needed to hear at the right moment, making my day quite special. What I want you to remember is that our words are powerful, use them to inspire, motivate and enrich the lives of others.

x -Luisa

Mickey Mouse Club star Kaiden

Outfit: Mickey Mouse beanie, shorts and booties are crochet

 

 

I wonder if Disney is recruiting any baby models because this lil man just stole our heart! Channeling his inner Mickey Mouse, my nephew, Kaiden posed for the camera for his 2-month photoshoot. How cute is he! A special thank you to my brother and sister-in-law for allowing us to capture this precious moment.

 

Child photography is hardwork but all worth it when you capture that one shot that will make their parents smile. We (KaLu) are still learning and enjoying the process of photography....and we shall keep on practicing.  

 

x- KaLu

Positive Monday

Sunset. Palos Verdes, CA

 

Monday's is when I need that positive vibe to make it through a week of work. It's the day I plan on how to make the week more exciting and empowering. It's when I reflect on the things I did this past weekend that just made me and those I spent it with smile. That is the kind of energy I will feed on to make each day more memorable. Afterall we can no longer live on yesterday and fret about tomorrow, we can only live for today. We have all been given a white blank sheet of paper for today, now the question is..what will you write on it? I hope it's full of good things, most important positive ones that will make your day better.

 

On today's post I wanted to share an article that I wrote last year, I think it's perfect for today. As you will read patience is still something I am working on, it's not easy but good things do come to those who wait. I like to go back and read where my thoughts were, and this will give me some extra time to learn more about blogging and get back on track with my writing.  Enjoy!

 

-Luisa

 

 



LatinoLA | ¡Exprésate! :: When it's Gloomy, Always Shine

"Time to get my head back in the game" is what I told myself this morning. Positivity is how I fight negativity because there sure "ain't no mountain high" that can stop me.

After all 2012 will have many opportunities to offer and staying focused is key.

For the moment writing seems to be my alternative for a vacation, one that I have wanted to take, and deserve, yet find it hard to accomplish. I'm tired of job hunting yet I know the search must continue.

Over twenty job submissions this month of January; only email acknowledgments but zero calls. It sure is a tough world out there. There are times when I want to run straight to those closed doors and scream, "Pick me!"

These past three years have been a challenge; my patience is literally holding on to a strand of hair on the verge of breaking apart. So, what does one do to stay sane?

Well, the reality of this is that I know I'm not the only one going through this job downturn. However, what keeps me sane are the other things I enjoy doing. For one, writing is my escape and how I cope with these gloomy but empowering situations. I have also channeled in to my other skills like: Editing, Tutoring, SAT guidance and even Photography, which are all over the job spectrum yet have proven to be successful.

These are the things I care most about because they make up part of who I am. These are the moments when I can laugh and be me, all stress-free. From someone who understands; I encourage you to keep your head up high, search for alternatives and "keep on swimming," the best is yet to come.