love of jesu, love of people

When Ben and I had the wonderful experience of traveling Italy for three weeks back in 2011, our longest stay was in the city center of Florence. Spilling forth with some of the world's finest art and most delicious food, the city quickly became one of our favorites. Our tiny hotel was just a few blocks from the Duomo which served as a lovely and convenient compass whenever we felt like getting lost.
We had the privilege of attending mass at the cathedral one morning and while folks were ushering in, the kind elderly priest made his way down the aisle welcoming new and familiar faces alike. When he came to us, he simply asked where we were visiting from and what I did for work. I told him I took photos of people for a living and with an affirming nod he said "Yes. For the love of people. Love of jesu, love of people." It was enough to make me teary eyed and a beautiful confirmation that I hold dear especially during seasons like this one when things don't come as easily and I wonder if I'm pursuing the right things. A gentle reminder of where my priorities should be.

love of jesu, love of people.
florence italy | lily glass
florence italy | lily glass
florence italy | lily glass
florence italy | lily glass
florence italy | lily glass
florence italy | lily glass
florence italy | lily glass

Sunday Lunch with Almost Makes Perfect

Spring is here (and don't my allergies know it...)! Regardless, 'tis the season for frequent entertaining and bright colorful tablescapes. Molly from Almost Makes Perfect teamed up with Kendall Jackson Wines (and a second Molly!) to create a lovely Sunday afternoon lunch only complete with the most refreshing floral winesicles.

lily glass for Almost Makes Perfect | Spring salad
lily glass for Almost Makes Perfect | Spring Winesicles
lily glass for Almost Makes Perfect | Spring table setting
lily glass for Almost Makes Perfect | Spring Winesicles

YUM, right?! And those edible flowers... I couldn't stop taking pictures. Molly+Molly created that beautiful green backdrop - such a simple project with a big impact.

lily glass for almost makes perfect | spring table setting
lily glass for almost makes perfect | spring floral background
lily glass for almost makes perfect | spring table setting
lily glass for almost makes perfect | spring table setting
lily glass for almost makes perfect | spring winesicles
lily glass for almost makes perfect | spring winesicles
lily glass for almost makes perfect | spring winesicles

Swing by Molly's blog for the full Sunday Spring lunch post.
You can find the recipe for those killer winesicles here.
The tutorial for that fabulous DIY leaf background here.
And an easy guide to stamping cloth napkins here.