November 12, 2023
Aubrey and Simeon
November 12th. One of my favorite days last semester for sure. I've had my heart set on going to a specific church in San Diego "someday" for several years now. It was only two hours from my school ("only". But when it's normally twenty hours away, two doesn't seem so bad haha). I picked some friends I wanted to invest more time in and asked them if they would go with me. I also was very excited to offer some pictures for them on the beach since they're in a relationship!
They agreed and we had so much fun. We were able to really be ourselves, which is honestly invaluable. With hours of driving as well as meals together we got to know each other much better, it was really just such a sweet time. The church we ended up visiting was in an old, ornate theater. I wasn't sure what to expect exactly, but it was really good. The guest speaker was from South Africa and spoke on the importance of solitude and quiet before the Lord. It was impactful enough I still remember the lessons four months later.
The best part, though, was that we all expressed gratitude. Let me explain what I mean: throughout the day, all three of us were enjoying ourselves so much, we each just had to sigh and smile periodically and let the others know what a good time we were having. I had never thought about it before, but it had a noticeable effect! When Aubrey or Simeon expressed joy (as C.S. Lewis says, no joy is complete unless it is expressed) I never had to wonder or worry if they were having a good time. I knew. And their excitement let me be excited, we fed off each other. Let yourselves take delight, y'all, in every day things! We went to church, grabbed lunch and coffee, walked to the beach and enjoyed the sun. Really simple. But we slowed down and went out of our way to enjoy "fellowship", to use an older term. It was the most lovely thing ever.
So try it. Next time you're enjoying yourself, let the person you're with know in the moment, "I'm having so much fun with you!" It may just brighten and enhance their experience, as well!
Anyways. If you're ever in San Diego, the Taco Stand. Man. Best food ever. Go.
We did photos at sunset on the beach. These were not engagement photos ;) We stopped at In-N-Out after and listened to good music on the drive home. Overall just lovely. I'll quit talking now.
Love,
Sarah
Here are some random photos as well:
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