"We played with Barbies when we were little girls because we thought they were the coolest toy ever created—we still think they are. Our wardrobes consisted of side pony-tails with big bows and flowery, spandex shorts that our moms would pick out for us. Oh...and I can't forget those dresses in all their ruffles galore. Looking back at pictures I realize our mom's needed some serious fashion advice. I remember playing countless hours of candy land because it was the only board game I owned as a kid. As little girls, Alejandra and I were inseparable. We're cousins. She was my partner when I liked to watch back-to-back episodes of Arthur, my movie buddy when all we had to watch was Angels in the Outfield and Lion King, and together we endured the ultra salted potatoes my older sister would make us when she would babysit. Fast forward nine years later and here we are sitting in a Pollo Loco booth after years of going off our separate ways. We no longer let our moms pick out our clothes, our Barbies are safely stored in our garages because we refuse to sell them, my sister no longer makes salty potatoes and our ruffle dresses...well, let's just say we traded them in for ones that don't make us look like birthday cakes. Over every bite of chicken goodness we indulged in the memories of our childhood. She openly shared of her pregnancy at young age, the abusive relationship she was in with her child's father, her search for love, and her longing to reestablish her relationship with her Heavenly Father. Not too long ago I received a message from her on facebook (Oh...the powers of facebook) where she described her thirst, her longing, and desperation to makes things right with the God she had forgotten about. Little did she know, however, that on a Thursday night young adult's bible study I convinced her to go to with me, her search for love and forgiveness would end. She would again find herself at the feet of the One who had been waiting for her for so long. A prodigal daughter had come home. And there, sitting in an empty Pollo Loco, after the study, bawling out our eyes over rice and guacamole sauce I wanted to get up on the table and bust out some dance moves. I was happy I didn't though because one of the employees was already looking at us weird. Alejandra, thank you SO much for showing me that brokenness is the perfect way for God to show me that He is able and I am not. Thank you for showing me that weakness is acceptable and that being a control freak is never good. Thank you for our Monday devotionals where we gush on the Word with the occasional cute boy talk. Haha Oh...and THANK YOU for being my very own personal, fabulous hair stylist hahaha I love you!" -Fernanda.
Yesterday, during my lunch break at work, ofcourse my phone magically took me to FB. I came across that particular note which brought tears but of joy.
This Summer, I was honored to work with amazing people. One of them was Fernanda who we all know will become one of the most inspirational writers. I have to admit I was pretty thrilled when she asked me to do her hair and make-up for her shoot for the simple fact in 9 years we had not hung out:) Brilliant and determined young lady she is.With her lovely voice she used to sing with a band named Enkairos and continues today locally. This fall she will be receiving her B.A. in English and this Summer she had the opportunity to do some mission work in Mexico. She also teaches Sunday School at her local church. And next month she bearly turns 20!!!! Great multitasker she is which makes me see how with God all things are possible.
Summer of 2010 I will never forget.Not only did I take my skills to the next level but I learned so much as a person. Now stay tuned for my 50's Bride, which I am thrilled about! I have been feeding my brain with every magazine, webpage, book, and even films ;)
My message to Fernanda: You know those overly salty papas were the best, The Angels are still loved! And I can never say thank you enough! I love you too!
ps. after the next devotional I am bringing the barbies over hehehe
And here are a few make-up shots of we did.... Pictures Provided by
ArlethGPhotography
