Selah // Coffeehouse

One of my favorite places I’ve visited and volunteered at in Budapest is at Selah. It’s part of YWAM Budapest, reaching out to the community. This was my second time working with the amazing staff.

Of course they have my favorite chai ever!!! And make it look so delicious. I never made the drinks (I don’t think they would turn out as beautiful) but kept busy with washing the dishes, being a food runner and making sandwiches.

Maple came in from time to time and always loved some snuggles.

Selah has a great community along with the coffee. I loved capturing photos of them as well as the coffee shop and drinks.

I loved working alongside these amazing women. In between customers we would chill on the ‘friends’ couch. I even helped them create a fun video of the coffeehouse for their social media. It was a fun way to get everyone involved.

On my off days I would bring in my laptop, grab a snack and work on my book. I hope to see you all again next year!!

Day trip to Bucharest

Back in May while in Constanta, two of my friends (Sarah and Kristina) and I took a train to Bucharest for the day. None of us had really explored the capital, so we thought it was time. It was just a two+ hour ride from Constanta.

We went to one museum that had a Sushi section which was amazing to see!!

Just two Americans in Bucharest.

This library became my favorite pretty easy. I didn’t look at a lot of books, I was trying to soak in all the beauty around me in this place.

I had driven through this city before but never had the opportunity to explore until this trip. I saw a lot, went up and down many streets but I know there is more to explore. Hopefully I will have another chance to go again.

The girls and I ended our day at a Mexican restaurant, eating good food and sipping on Jarritos. Thanks girls for a lovely day in Bucharest!! Until our next adventure.

Prague // Czech Republic

I had the privilege of spending my last week in Europe in Prague with my sister. She had been wanting to go back there for twenty years for a visit. She traveled traveled there with her church group three summers in a row, teaching English at a youth camp. It was my dream to see her in Europe and spend time with her and I loved seeing her excitement exploring Prague again.

We stayed in a quant airbnb not far from the center of town. It was just a quick 10-15 minute tram to see all the sites. She left the daily planning of the trip to me and which sites to see. I knew what she wanted to see on this trip, which were the same for me so that made it easy.

She saw many of the same places again and we both saw lots of new places (especially for me since it was my first time there). Those 8 days that we were there, we exceeded well over 15,000 steps of day seeing all that we could. One day we even got over 20,000 steps (on our day trip to Germany, for another blog).

The photo above and below was taken off the Charles Bridge. Carey remembered this same area that was flooded when she was there back in the day.

Of course I had to capture some of the amazing and cool trams of Prague. I love me some good tram photos.

It was still pretty warm most days we were there, especially mid day. Most of the time we got out to explore in the morning, went home over lunch time to rest and cool off, and head out to explore again by late afternoon through the evening.

My sister and I hope to take more of these trips together in the future. There are many places on our list so who knows where we will venture off to next time.

YWAM Constanta // girls group

One highlight from my time with YWAM Constanta is working with the girls group. I love being there in the summer with them, we get to take them on different excursions and adventures together. We meet with them once a week and can have between 6-10 girls each time. It’s a time to really invest into their lives, showing them the love of Jesus.

Even though I don’t work there full time, the girls still remember me and get excited when they see me each trip. Some remember my name, others remember me as the one who takes photos.

One of the weeks we took them to a large local park, City Park. There are multiple play grounds there with all kinds of slides, swings and climbing structures. The best was when all the girls could slide together on the enormous slide, filled with so much laughter. Me and some of the other workers couldn’t stop laughing as we watched them giggling as they slid down.

Another week we took them to the local mini zoo. Some of them had been before, but they were still filled with so much joy and laughter, looking at all the animals and creatures.

I think my favorite week was when we went near the beach and I led the group time sharing about photography. I shared about my experience with photography and how we can always find beautiful things around us, in all of our surroundings. We also divided up in small groups and went on a photo scavenger hunt, which they loved and had so much fun with.

The City of Budapest

Where to begin with this blog about Budapest. I spent two months living there, exploring so much of this city. These photos are just a small glimpse of what I took while there.

I knew that I was going to enjoy this city but I didn’t know I was going to fall in love with it. Maybe because there was just so much to see and do while I was there. I loved all the amazing architecture all over the city.

Of course I had to visit the fanciest McDonald’s I’ve ever seen in my life. I felt that I was super underdressed!!

Most days that I worked at the coffee house during the week, I would go out and explore for the afternoon. I never got tired or bored of this place. At the beginning I would walk around and find a new spot, capturing all the beauty. Later on, I had some favorite areas where I would go back to more often.

Some streets and districts of the city was filled with colorful buildings. My eyes were always looking around me as I walked up and down the streets.

I really hope to get back to this amazing city this summer, at least to visit my friends and my favorite spots.

the potter // golden days

This session was a favorite of mine. I love having the opportunity to collaborate with other artists. Hanna is an incredible potter and artist. When she told me about her pottery business, I knew I wanted to team up together.

These sessions make me happy. It’s so chill and I get to watch creatives at work in their environment and document it all. This time was filed with all kinds of creative artistry.

If you are in need of some pottery, go and check out her work!! https://www.instagram.com/gldn.dys/

Hanna, keep creating. You are an amazing artist and person.

timisoara // romania

I was finally able to get back to Timisoara in western Romania. I was there for a short time last year but was delighted to pass through for a second time. As I traveled with friends to Hungary for the gathering, we stopped by Timisoara to stay the night. We took time the following morning to explore the old city area.

Of course the area in the photos above was my favorite spot. I loved the center area with the colorful buildings lined with small cafes. Of course it reminded me something out of a Wes Anderson movie.

The umbrella alley was a gorgeous find as we were walking around. I could have stayed in this area all day. I loved the colors and shadows all over the ground and up the walls of the buildings.

Of course I had to get one of my signature gas station corner shots before we left Timisoara.

Laser Family

I had the privilege to photograph this beautiful family recently. I met them for the first time last year when I was here. I was able to be there for James’ first birthday party last year and Jenna’s baby shower this year.

We captured these shots at City Park here in Budapest. There are so many parks in this city and this one is pretty huge, so we had plenty of areas to capture some great images.

Thank you Laser’s for letting me photograph your family.

Almere / Netherlands

I got the chance to travel to Almere by train with one of my friends from school. I had seen photos of this place on social media and tried my best to make a visit. It was nice to have a travel buddy to go with as well.

We loved the vibe happening in Almere. It was a lot smaller than Amsterdam and had more of a relaxed feel and slower paced. We walked around the center filled with shops and came across some unique buildings.

There was one building we were very eager to find. We finally found it but were a bit disappointed as the outer area was all gated off, with no access to get into the center of these vibrant and colorful buildings. We decided to walk across the street to a small park and enjoy our pack lunch. As we were eating, I asked Christy, if she noticed the gate being opened now. We finished our lunch and went over and were able to walk through the center of these buildings. I felt that this trip was very much worth it, to have the chance to see these buildings blew our minds.

We were filled with excitement and wonder, walking around this area. We stayed for probably around thirty minutes, not really wanting to leave. I wanted to sit down and stay there, working on something creative. I felt so inspired by the artistry all around me.

Thank you, Christy for exploring with me! Where are we going to explore next?!

Amsterdam / Netherlands

I never imagined I would get the opportunity to travel to Amsterdam let alone have some of my studies there as well. The last module of my author’s school was held in this captivating nation. In between classes, working on my book, getting my final project done, I made sure I found that extra time to explore as much as I could.

I was constantly in awe of the architectural artistry I saw on many streets around Amsterdam. Of course I loved the old houses along the countless canals around the city but I the more modern buildings intrigued me so much more.

Every corner I would come around, wonder filled me as I gazed upwards, relishing in the beauty everywhere.

One Saturday morning I decided to go and explore the business area of Zuidas. It was just a twenty minute tram ride from the center of Amsterdam, but I decided to walk (a little over an hour), seeing more of the city. When I arrived in the downtown area of Zuidas, I was blown away by the buildings up and down the streets.

Right behind Central Station there were small ferry’s that were free to ride, taking you across the water to other parts of the city. I decided to venture off and ride on one of them, anticipating on finding more beauty. I found some of my favorite spots of the city while on that little morning adventure.

I loved chasing beauty all around Amsterdam as I finished my school. Maybe one day I’ll have the opportunity to visit this place again. Being such an artistic city, I was definitely inspired with more ideas for my book.

Old Town - Constanta

Besides walking along the shore of the Black Sea, my other favorite place is Old Town. I love exploring this area and all its beauty. The first time I walked through this area I was in love. It’s just so cute and quaint.

This trip I decided to explore more of the streets, going up and down as many as I could. I ended up finding some pretty cool buildings.

One afternoon as I ventured to Old Town, I came across a go cart competition. I stood there for a while watching the kids and taking some photos of them, wishing I was driving one!!

I think i traveled to Old Town just as often as going to the Black Sea. I love my beach time but I also love exploring the streets and architecture of this beautiful spot.

Cluj // Oradea

When I flew into Romania on this last trip I landed in Cluj this time instead of Constanta. I spent my first week in this big city with a good friend of mine before we headed to Constanta. We got to catch up on each others lives and I got to explore the city more. I have been to Cluj a couple other times back in 2021 but was only there a couple of days.

During that week I was also able to bless the YWAM base there by photographing a few different events and a family photo session for one of the staffs. Some days I went grocery shopping with my friend for the Ukrainian refugees that were staying there at the time.

One day my friend and I, along with a few others drove to the beautiful city of Oradea. The time there was way too short, but I soaked it all in during that day trip. I simply loved the cool and colorful trams around town.

Bojnice Castle

We had an outing one day during school in Slovakia and got to visit the amazing Bojnice Castle. A little backstory on this castle. Around 12 years ago my sister had sent me a photo on Facebook about this exact castle. She said we need to go here!! That memory popped up a couple weeks before going to the castle. When I told my sister is was the same castle that I was going to visit, she first said she was jealous and that couldn’t believe it was same one!

I love looking out over the cities when I’m exploring a castle. I love capturing these types of photos. The rooftops are my favorite!!

The garden area of this castle was pretty spectacular! The only way to enter the castle was with a tour guide, so we couldn’t explore on our own. It was super informative though.

After visiting the castle we stopped by a small Slovakian village for a few minutes. Even though I was busy with school for those 3 weeks of school, I was able to see so much of the beauty in this country. I hope to one day visit it again.

Harmonia, Modra

This beautiful place is nestled less than an hour from Bratislava, Slovakia. These forests are magical and mystical. This is where I was blessed to be at the start of my Author’s Training School back in October/November.

This was really the perfect place to have a writing school. It needed a place that was quiet and peaceful, and places to venture out and walk from time to time.

Whenever I need some fresh air, a break from writing or struggled with writers block, I always went out for a walk. Some days it was just quick 15 minute walk, other days it was longer. Where the center was located for the school, it was surrounded with so many amazing trails through the forest. I could choose a different one each walk and find a new view.

Besides walking through the forests, other days I would walk up and down the streets to see what other beauty I could find. I always walked past this tennis court and made sure to snap a few photos along the way. There was only one or two times when I saw anyone out there playing. It might have been because of the cold weather.

I had three awesome weeks in the beautiful place for my school and loved it so much. I wish I could have stayed even longer, but was thankful for the time I had there.

The Black Sea - Constanta

One of my favorite things about Constanta is going to the Black Sea coast. The sea is my happy place. The base is just a block or two away, so I would go down to the water pretty often.

I loved going to just walk along the shore, barefoot, feeling the sand between my toes. Some days I would go and sit, read a book, eat a snack and just people watch. The summers are always crowded down by the water, filled with people sun bathing, swimming and building sand castles.

One day I found this little cove to hang out at from time to time. I would sit on one of the rocks, put my feet in the water to cool them off and watch people swim. There were a few days when I watched a bunch of teenagers jumping and diving off the rocks further out.

The Yellow Tram - Budapest

From the first moment I set eyes on the yellow trams I was in love. There were old ones, which were my favorite and some newer ones. I favored tram 49, which I rode often, especially at the beginning of my time in the city.

There were trams going through the city, along the Danube River and along the outskirts of town.

The top and bottom photos were taken of the trams that pass through the area with the Parliament building. This become one of my favorite places to go, taking photos and people watching. It was along the river and had trams passing every couple minutes. There were days when I would grab some lunch or a snack and sit and enjoy the view.

I took so many photos of the different trams, they were my favorite thing to capture. And I will take even more photos the next time I’m in town.

The Village of Szentendre

While I was in Budapest, one of my cousins come visit for a week. We took a day trip to the village of Szentendre, less than a hour tram ride outside of town.

The sunlight was perfect that day, I was able to balance the shadows and light just right, which has been my favorite these days.

Szentendre was a quant little village, we were able to see most of it that day. It’s a super cute place, giving that old European vibe. Filled with the old cobblestone narrow streets and adorable little shops and pubs.

I love all the bright colors of the buildings, hanging lanterns and umbrellas.

This was my favorite building I found in the village. It’s the perfect shade of golden yellow.

The color red and fog // Bratislava

Some of my fellow classmates and I ventured off to Bratislava one Saturday. It was bit cold and overcast, but still fun to get out and do some sightseeing. The capital was less than an hour train ride away.

We wandered around until we finally found the old town area of the city. I was excited to observe all the bright red buses and trams along the streets. I love the different modes of transportation in Europe.

We found a nice little coffee shop in the center of town, enjoying some hot drinks and a pastry. After that, we explored the city as much as we could with the time that we had.

I was in awe of the beauty of this city, even if I didn’t have a lot of time. I love exploring new places and seeing what beauty I can find along the way.

Mystical Slovenia

As I walked down the hill and across the street, seeing this place for the first time was jaw dropping. I didn’t want to leave. I was blessed to stay for four days, though I would have loved to have stayed longer.

We traveled to Lake Bohinj from Budapest for a few days, passing by Lake Bled on the way. The weather for that weekend was cold with some rain and fog off and on, but that just added to the beauty.

This shot above is my all time favorite photo of 2022. I took a walk one of the days down to this dock to get some shots. It was super foggy out, and raining off and on. I was happy that there was some fog, as it added a new texture to the photo.

The last two photos are of Lake Bled. We grabbed some drinks at a cafe for a couple of hours before heading to Lake Bohinj for the weekend. I hope to get the chance to visit Slovenia again. It’s definitely one of my favorite places I’ve ever visited.

SNO // Summer Nightlife Outreach

My amazing SNO team in Vama Veche!!! I was so blessed to have an amazing team filled with beautiful people.

Our awesome fearless leaders, Bart and Roxana!

We would start our evenings with a time of praise and worship. We first had this time at the church we were staying at, but after a few days we decided to bring the worship to the beaches of Vama Veche. It was so much more powerful having this time right in the middle of the area where we had ministry.

Giong into this outreach, I really didn’t know what to expect. Some of my friends in Constanta that have been on teams in the past, told me about their experiences. When I heard that the ministry would start late in the night, I was super excited about that part, but it all worked out and I loved it.

Above, you can see the 4 signs that we would hold up on the street corner, where there was a lot of foot traffic. We would hold these signs, trying the lead people over to us, and try to figure out the message that we wanted to share. We had a bunch of Red Bulls and would shout: “Guess the message and get a free Red Bull!” Once a few people would stop and try to figure out the signs, others passing by would notice us, intrigued and stop to see what was going on.

If we were holding a sign, we would walk around, leading people to the signs, and going over to them to discuss the message. We tried not to give them the answers of the signs, but help them guess each sign with giving them little clues if they needed it. We did have a good amount of people guess the entire message with just a few clues and they need up winning a Red Bull. After we shared thoroughly the message at the end, making sure they understood it all, we prayed for some that wanted it and encouraged them. We handed out a lot of Bibles over those two weeks. We also invited many of them to an online course called The Alpha Course, where they could learn more about Jesus.

The first 3 days of the outreach was a time of learning and training. The second night of outreach, we started to put those things we had been learning into practice on the streets of Vama Veche. One of the things we did one night, that was new to a lot of us, was something called “Treasure Hunt”. We took time to ask God for a specific person on the street, for a specific piece of clothing, shoes, hair color, etc. For example, someone wearing the color orange, someone with pink hair and sandals, someone wearing sunglasses and a hat, etc. Some were vague and others were really specific. We would then write down all those things so that everyone had the list. We went out and walked around in groups of 2-3, looking for these “treasures”. If we found someone…wearing orange…we would walk up to them and explain what we were doing and ask if we could pray for them. Some were surprised at what we were doing, while others were so grateful and happy with what we were doing and received the prayer.

We prayed for so many people and it was beautiful to see how open the people were and so grateful for the prayers. Some were full of smiles after, others crying tears of joy. I was excited for times when I was able to pray over some of the girls that we ministered to.

Our last night of ministry we decided to set up our station right in the center of all of the night clubs. It was really powerful to be right there, even though it was extremely loud. But God really moved in and through many young people that last night.

In the middle of the outreach we were able to share about what we were doing at the church we were staying at. Bart, our leader, shared the message that morning and the rest of us shared testimonies, led worship, and shared a short skit of what we do during our ministry at night.

I loved doing ministry with beautiful souls, wearing our Vama Veche pants!!

We did it!! We made it through SNO Vama Veche 2022!! I was so thankful for this time and spending time with these amazing people. I learned so much from them and God used me in a mighty way. I was way out of my comfort zone for sure, but God used me on the streets of Vama Veche.

I know I could see the change in me from the beginning of outreach by the end of the two weeks. From the first time of hiding behind the signs to going out in the street, talking to people about Jesus and praying for them.

Shoutout to Bart for inviting me last year to be apart of SNO this year!!