London Diary

At the beginning of this month my sister and I went on a trip. This time it was not a road trip. It was just her and I flying halfway across the world (9 hours to be exact), with no guide, landing at Heathrow Airport. I will admit to getting lost three times as we relied on public transportation but I will treasure every memory we had in this beautiful country.

London was our first stop before traveling to Paris (stay tuned for that post). There is a reason why I chose to fly to London first, I had already fallen in love with this city through books, pictures and that British accent. This is just a sneak peek to the hundreds of photos we took. This trip turned out to be the best time ever!! Thank you Karen for joining me on this adventure.

xo-Luisa

Positive Monday: New Day

Downtown Los Angeles, Angels Point by KaLu

There are two kinds of faiths, natural and spiritual. Our natural faith knows that when the sun sets in the evening the sun will rise once again in a couple of hours. Along with a sunrise comes hope that tomorrow will be a better day and it is up to us to make it better. That hope is fed by our spiritual faith. Always know that "our faith can move mountains" - Matthew 17:20. Have Faith that things will work out, maybe not how you planned but how it's meant to be.

x-Luisa

Roses are Red. Violets are Blue...

By KaLu - Balboa Park, San Diego, CA

There's a poem that always comes to mind that I would recite as a little girl and sometimes still do: "Roses are red. Violets are blue. Sugar is sweet and so are you!" It is very simple and cute  but carries a profound meaning. Then as I look at these beautifully created tulips I think of God's amazing creation and love. He created each and everyone of us so unique and differently, with a purpose to always shine in this world. I decided to quit my job and it has all been very bittersweet. I'll be honest it's the people I will miss but I know that my decision is the best because God has already opened doors for me. I am about to embark on a new career world and I need to be brave. These past two weeks many have made it a point to share with me, before I leave, how happy and excited they are for me, and that means the world to me. They have also shared how much of an influence I have been to them when sometimes all I would do is smile and greet them very quickly. I'm glad that I have been that ray of sunshine, a gift that God has given me. And because He lives in me I live.

Time to follow my passion, my dreams and reach for the stars!

x-Luisa

Plant the Seed

San Diego, CA KaLu

"It is our responsibility to sow the seed" - R. Warren

You plant a seed and with time and proper care you see a flower. In life you must also plant seeds in your heart and let them bear fruits of love, patience, compassion and positivity. I have come to realize that as a daughter of the most highest God I possess this unexplainable influence over others,  that my friend is the love God has given me to share with others. This past Monday I took a leap of faith in my career and I am excited to share more but for now it brings joy to know how much of an influence I have been and will be. I have planted a seed without even knowing hoping that it's one of success.

x-Luisa

Do More of What Makes You Happy

An alternative, an inspiration…what are we willing to give up for what we want, an opportunity cost.

The price for success can be high but it’s reachable. So I have asked myself these past few days, how much longer can I walk around with all of those special talents that I was given but instead have them restrained. With time the load begins to wear you out, it becomes too heavy to carry and you must make a decision. Where do you settle and begin to unpack what you were called on to do. See, when you are at place for too long, but know you can do better, its starts to affect the way you see things and you begin to believe you are at a loss. Today, remember that even in loss, heartache or disappointment, God will order your steps. He’ll line up the right people and the right opportunities and lead you into victory all the days of your life. Change and transition frightens me too but it also offers a new chapter, new beginnings, a step closer to your dreams. We all deserve to be utterly happy in a place where our hard work is applauded. So as I put my feeling into words I share with you some inspirational words. Don’t give up. Nothing that you want comes easy; you have to work hard for it. After all when you have God at your side all things are possible, but be patient. There’s a time for everything.

-x Luisa

p.s. Have a nice weekend!

Throwback Thursday

by KaLu - Santa Ynez, CA

Well it's throwback Thursday and I found myself going back to these photos of a road trip to a winery in Santa Ynez, CA. I can't help but think of how badly I am in need of a vacation. September is just around the corner and I can't wait! My body needs it too. The work environment has become stressful and I find myself seeking motivation. Today I closed my eyes and imagined myself sitting right at this place. God's creation is just majestically and amazingly perfect!!

Thanks for stopping by!

x-Luisa

Positive Tuesday

I find many of my daily inspirations from Joel Osteen. He is one strong man of faith. Sometimes the things he writes are just the words I need to hear. So today I share with you these same words.

Los Olivos, CA Vineyard

No matter where you are in life, no matter what has happened in your past, it's never too late for God to set you spiritually free. It's never too late for Him to turn things around. It's never too late to break that addiction; never too late to have good relationships; never too late to fulfill your dreams.
If you feel like you've wasted years or lost opportunities, if you feel like there's something holding you back, now is the time to experience the true freedom that Jesus came to give. Open your heart to Him in faith and ask Him to come into your life. Surrender all to Him and let Him show you the path toward victory.

Stay Positive!

x-Luisa

Motivational Monday: Shine!

 

 

At church this Sunday I had the most amazing experiences during worship that it is even hard to put into words. But I do want you to know that when I left I was refreshed, I felt brand new. Sometimes we are consumed by the daily commitments and responsibilities of this world that we forget about who we are and why we are in this world. Don't let all the negativity that wonders thru this world turn off that beautiful light that shines in you. Keep on sharing the blessings, the love and the peace that God gives you. That is why this little light on mine I will always let it shine. You can make a difference in this world!

 

x-Luisa

Friday Favorites

August is here! A new month and after pay day the weekend is finally here! That's enough to get me excited. I constantly seek for ways to get inspired and my surroundings are a big influence. Today I wanted to share with you my Friday Favorites which motivated me all week. Have a lovely weekend! 
 

The Sun & Woods -by KaLu

 

 

 

 

 

 xo-Luisa

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