On a Journey...

"Life is like an old-time rail journey--delays, sidetracks, smoke, dust, cinders, and jolts, interspersed only occasionally by beautiful vistas and thrilling bursts of speed. The trick is to thank the Lord for letting you have the ride." President Gordon B. Hinckley


I have a goal to go somewhere new with my camera each day. It feels like an inspiried idea, so I am going to do my best to follow through. 


Yesterday I set out for a drive with no real sense of where I was going. Fitting, I suppose. I found myself thouroughly enjoying the senery and the time to ponder. I was observing a pretty little falcoln when I saw a train coming down the road. I thought to myself how timely it was for the train to cross my path, something I wouldn't have seen if I hadn't stepped outside my usual surroundings. Perhaps on the surface, it was just a train. But with further contemplation, I felt it was a true tender mercy. God's way of saying, "Don't give up. Keep going. You're on the right path." Immediatley I thought of Elder Holland's moving talk, "An High Priest of Good Things to Come." 

“Don’t give up, boy. Don’t you quit. You keep walking. You keep trying. There is help and happiness ahead—a lot of it—30 years of it now, and still counting. You keep your chin up. It will be all right in the end. Trust God and believe in good things to come.” 

While part of me has felt kind of lost lately, I know that isn't really the case. My vision isn't yet completely clear concerning God's plan for me, but I know he is leading me, and I am following with faith. I am certain that as long as I'm willing to seek for the beatuy around me, I'll find it.

There is hope smiling brightly before me. There are good things to come; beautiful vistas yet within my view. 

With Hope,

L

Enlightened

Photography by Whitney

I just discovered the most beautiful talk. I think Heavenly Father knew I needed it. He knows me so well. I feel enlivened and enlightened... admittedly something I have not felt in days.  "Gladly, Gladly We'll Walk in the Light" by John Telford (BYU professor of Photography)

If you can, read the talk, it is so inspiring! Here are a couple of quotes that stood out to me.

"National Geographic photographer Dewitt Jones described the difference between being the best in the world and being the best for the world. To be the best in the world, all of the attention is focused on the individual. To be the best for the world, the attention is focused on others." (Telford, Quoting Dewitt Jones)


"I recall a discussion in a seminar class during my graduate studies. In it the instructor quoted from an article that went something like this: “When everyone was ‘hot,’ I was ‘cool.’ When everyone was ‘cool,’ I was ‘hot.’” I feel my work—my career—is summed up in that quote. I have been doing “cool” color photographs for twenty years while black and white has been “hot.” I have been “out” doing pristine photographs of the landscape while contemporary photographs of dirt and grit and decay have been “in.” I have never been part of the current trend in photography, but I continue to produce the work that I am passionate about. My photographs are about beauty and the ephemeral things of the world. While I photograph the landscape that seems eternal and unchanging, I am more interested in the light and weather that is constantly changing and fleeting. I am interested in things that humans did not create and have no control over—things that humans stand in awe of in spite of the fact that they have been seen hundreds of times: the colors of autumn, the glow of the land under the ethereal light of sunrise, an emotion-filled sky before and after a storm.

In a world where we are preoccupied with challenging the intellect, I choose to nurture the soul. I choose to celebrate the positive things of our world."

I find it so uplifting to see such highly talented artists, Telford and Jones, recognizing their "nothingness" and truly seeking to capture that which is virtuous, lovely, and of good report. It is highly encouraging! As noted in my last post, I have really struggled to know if this blog is something I should continue putting time and effort into. I am searching for my place. Seeking for a humble way to share my creations and insights, without the emphasis on myself. Seeking to make a contribution and not merely focusing on superficialities. Seeking satisfaction and peace with the way I share my time and talents. I don't know the answer yet, but this talk provided beautiful direction, insight, and hope.

With Hope,
L

Acres of Diamonds

I sat outside pondering this morning and noticed the simple beauty of the pavement after rain. The sun was shining on a small puddle and the wet rocks simply sparkled. I thought of the talk Acres of Diamonds, by Elder Vaughn J Featherstone. The story depicts a man who set off on a journey, away from home and family, and spent his whole life in search of wealth and prosperity. Ironically, in the end the richest diamond mine in the history of all the world was in his own backyard. My thoughts have been very much focused on home and family of late, and while I have at times been swept away with grand ideas and the allures of the world, I know what really matters most. "No success can compensate for failure in the home." President David O McKay

I could write about a dozen different things today. So much has been on my mind.

1. I could write about how truly wonderful the General Young Women meeting was, and how I cried from the moment it began till the closing prayer. How I needed to hear everything said, and how I longed for all of my girls to be there with me.

2. I could write about how my Danny was out of town last week and I was reminded just how much I love him and need him in my life... and how he placed a bag from H&M out in the open this morning and told me not to peek all day long. I promised!

3. I could write about how seriously Dolly took Danny's instruction to care for me while he was gone. She was quite the over-protective little companion, and I was grateful for her company.

4. I could write about how my dear sister Jeni baked cookies for me to take to the young women meeting, so I wouldn't get sick.... and how the next day my dear sister Stephanie sent me some beautiful GF cookies to enjoy... and how blessed I am to have such great sisters.

5. I could write about how happy and yet undeniably sad I am to see my siblings heading so many different directions in the coming months. For so many years we longed for progression, and now that it's coming at rapid speed, I wish I could pause time just a little and keep everyone close by a bit longer.

6. I could write about how I had a fun idea to either incorporate into this blog, or create a whole new blog itself... and how I couldn't sleep earlier last week because I was so excited about it.

7. I could write about how I couldn't sleep over the weekend because I began seriously contemplating if I even wanted to continue this blog, let alone start a new one... and how I really don't know the answer.

8. I could write about what defines success... and how my dear Whitney wisely told me there is a grave difference between being successful and being well-known.

9. I could write about my observations of many "successful" people, and my quest for authenticity and meaning in the life I lead, and the work I do.

10. I could write about how I have seen the hand of the Lord in my life so much lately... and how I don't know what I'm supposed to do with my time and talents, but he does.

11. I could write about how I've recently had the opportunity to play piano and sing songs for disabled children in a nearby care facility... and about how their little spirits are so pure and tender. How good it feels to use my talents to make their days a little brighter.

12. I could write about how my little niece Mauri says "I love you," and all of my worries fall away.

I could write about a dozen different things today, and I guess I've gone and done just that.

Seeking to more fully notice and appreciate the acres of diamonds right in my own little world today.

With Hope,
L

Happily Ever After

I am so excited! Tomorrow is the General Young Women Broadcast, and I can't wait to soak it all in!

Last year President Dieter F. Uchtdorf gave a beautiful talk entitled "Your Happily Ever After". Even tales of enchantment still portray some measure of trials, difficulty, and the occasional broken heart. It is always after the struggle that the beautiful words "happily ever after" come. This talk couldn't have come at a better time for me, just weeks before Danny and I were married--sealed for time and all eternity, in the Mt Timpanogos temple. We'd been through a lot of struggles throughout our dating relationship. Through those difficult days, I learned to rely on faith, cling to hope, and believe in miracles. I really do believe in Happily Ever After. I believe all of our trials and challenges are for our good. "Your once upon a time is now." Your happily ever after awaits!

I just can't wait to hear more beautiful words like this, inspired for our lovely young women, their mothers, and leaders like me! Looking forward to tomorrow evening!!

With Hope,
L

Dine Out or Opt-out?

I love when Dad and Mauri invite me to lunch. Well, sort of. I enjoy chatting and sharing in moments like the proud, "I'm drinking from a big girl cup" achievement above.

There's a strong connection between food and sociality. Think about it, most of our social gatherings involve, if not revolve, around eating.

Despite most restaurants best efforts to cater to food allergies, somehow it just doesn't ever really turn out well for me. I do my homework, and am careful to explain what I can and can't have, but I'm learning the risks of cross-contamination are just to high.

So what's a celiac girl like myself to do? Dine out, or simply opt-out altogether? Going along for the ride and watching others eat isn't very fun, but neither is being sick for hours, if not days, post dining out. Like anyone else, I want to eat out sometimes too! Not all dining invitations can be avoided, nor do I want to avoid them. It can be very frustrating, isolating, or debilitating, depending on the choice I make.

That said, we went out today and I had a nice bowl of vegetarian soup. It was labeled as gluten and dairy-free. Perfect, right?! Unfortunately, I still got sick. Nevertheless, I wouldn't trade the time spent with Dad and Mauri for anything. Perhaps next time I'll just opt for a drink and enjoy the company. That can be hard though, when the food looks and smells so delicious. Thankfully I'm feeling much better tonight.

Any other celiac/food allergy sufferers out there have tips? What do you do to keep healthy and still enjoy the dining out experience? To dine out or opt-out? That is the question.

With Hope,
L

Miss Mischief!

Dolly: "Mauri left her chocolate milk out! I've never eaten in my whole life. Here's my one chance."
Me: "I know that's totally disgusting, and I should discipline her, but it's too cute not to take a picture first!"

Dolly: "I didn't do it! I promise! I was just resting my head on the table, honest!"
Me: "Did I get that shot? Yes!" Now to show off my excellent pet parenting skills..."Dolly! Are you up at the table again?! You get down right now!"

Priorities people. It's all about getting the shot!

With Love,
L

I was Hoping...

I've been really busy working in my studio lately. Recently I submitted a bunch of cards to the Paper Crafts publication... I was hoping, but this time none of them were picked up.

My work has been published hundreds of times and I've been in the industry for years, but nobody would know it. I worked under the corporate name, not my own. It's kind of unfortunate. I have the cover of a top selling book, but my name is no where to be found. Sometimes it makes me want to shout, I'm Lynley Johnson, and I made that!

Alas, here I am, essentially starting out on my own, but with years of experience and loads of determination. I'll find my way.

With Hope,
L

Onesies

There are lots of little ones on their way this Spring. I get to be an auntie to baby "Blinkin" in May! That's what Mauri calls her soon-to-be brother, Lincoln. She also still thinks "Blinkin" is a pony... so that should be a fun adjustment;)

I wanted to do something simple for a couple of my friends who are due next month. I remembered I'd made some cute little onesies a couple of years ago. I thought the pear would be perfect for a springtime baby girl. I only had girly designs on hand, so I fashioned the little fishy for my friend Erin, who calls her baby boy "Guppy."

Looking forward to all those chubby cheeks and getting to be the auntie who loves and spoils them;)

With Love,
L

Whole Wide World

I'm so excited! Mindy Gledhill's new video, "Whole Wide World" released today! Danny can tell you, I listen to her CD over and over, and than all over again. Her lyrics are positive and uplifting. Mindy's music has the power to make me sing and dance, and yet it has often brought me to tears with its sincerity.

"Whole Wide World" has been a theme song of sorts for my life over the last 6 months. I'm a nerd, but I totally set it to play when I got in the car to drive away from my job for the last time. I got to hear Mindy sing at Spark the Event last September, and her words spoke to my soul. I knew I needed to make a change and this song encouraged me to have the confidence to do it. She talks about running as far as it takes to find your dreams, taking chances, and finding meaning in the struggles. "Maybe I'm just a little girl, a little girl with great big plans." It's like she wrote it for me;)

Remember that time I left my job to de-stress, get healthy, and live my dreams... and than I got called as Young Women President two weeks later;) It's a lot of work and takes both a physical and emotional tole on me at times, but I've always felt that the Young Women program would be an important part of my life. I know despite the challenges, it's part of Heavenly Father's plan for me. Mindy's song has taken on more meaning for me while serving with the Young Women. I wish those girls could see their potential. I want them to know the great influence one virtuous girl can have in this great big world.

So, I keep listening to my theme song... Reminding myself to move forward, letting myself rest when I need to, and looking for the good in the world around me.

Enjoy the video!!

With Hope,
L

Looking Up Page

In case you needed more evidence: Yes, my name is Lynley, and I'm obsessed with balloons. Whitney and I had so much fun doing our big balloon photoshoots over a year and a half ago. Perhaps you'll see new ballooning adventures soon. Wink wink;)

Trending Now:

Balloons

Hand crafted flowers

Doilies 

Butterflies

Geometric patterns: generally one bold color paired with a neutral

Polaroids 

Typewriter Journaling 

I'm all about finding creative and thrifty solutions to keeping up with the trends. I don't have a polaroid camera, but easily created the look by backing a small photo with white cardstock.  

Take note of the fabulous red geometric patterned paper, designed by my talented friend Lindsay at Pebbles INC. I've been hoarding a bunch of her paper forever and I'm so excited to have time to play with it!

In case you're still reading, I've got a fun idea I can't wait to share with you soon!

With Love,

L

Ford Man

I married a Ford man. He loves trucks, trailers, and tools. (I have tools too, but most of them are pink, and used for scrapbooking.) Danny can build anything and is always coming up with ideas for new projects. He's built shelves for my paper and embellishments and custom lighting equipment for product photography. How lucky am I?

I feel very blessed to have a husband who helps me reach my potential. He knows how much I want to find my own place in the scrapbooking and photography world, and he does everything he can to help me. I don't know what makes men prefer one vehicle over another, they all seem the same to me, but if all Ford men are like mine, it must be superior to those other brands;)

I sure love my Ford man!

With Love,
L

Looking Up!

You've probably seen this photo on a dozen blogs, but I couldn't resist showing this recent National Geographic experiment. Taking inspiration from Disney's Up, the folks at National Geographic launched a real home, attached to 300 balloons, 10,000 feet in the sky!

Ever since the movie Up came out, I've been obsessed with balloon imagery. The idea of simply floating off to a happy place, away from the world, is so fanciful and fun! I'm a daydreamer and can lose myself picturing just such a sky-high adventure; but then, I look at life here on the ground and realize it's pretty wonderful too:)

Things are looking up!

With Hope,
L

Hello Sunshine!

And I thought I was happy to see the sunshine! This little miss was so thrilled to play outside after such a long time. There's something so rejuvenating about the emergence of spring. It makes me feel hopeful and happy.

Looking forward to lots of sunny days and cheerful moments ahead!

With Hope,
L

Sew Pretty

Guess what we found at the local thrift store?! That's right, a lovely little vintage sewing machine! This little beauty has found a new home in my studio, and I think we're going to be very happy together;) It needs a new presser foot, but other than that, it's in great condition. So many possibilities ahead for the two of us!

We've found a few other little treasures that will need a proper introduction here too! More photo-shoots and vintage goodness to come!

With Love,
L

Spring

Dear Spring,

We are anxiously anticipating your arrival. It has been so long since you last visited. The tulips and daffodils are peeking outside their frozen surroundings, just hoping to get a glimpse of you. The little birds have been practicing songs for your welcoming. We look forward to seeing you soon. Hurry fast!

With Hope,
L

1,2,3

Happy Birthday Dad!

Today is Dad's birthday and I just wanted to say how grateful I am for him. He is an amazing father and I am a lucky to be his little girl (even if I am 28). Dad never hesitates to tell me he loves me. Even still, when I leave mom and dad's home, he stands at the door and counts to three, his code for I love you. He has always been right beside me when I've needed him. Dad is wise and understanding. He is charitable, generous, and kind. I only wish everyone could have a dad like mine. I am truly blessed. 1,2,3. I love you, Dad.

With Love,
L

The Caravan Moves On

The world is changing, and so am I. Through serving as Young Women President, I am seeing more clearly the reality of the war we are all engaged in, the battle between good and evil.

Critics, mocking onlookers, and those just waiting to be offended surround us on every side. Rapidly the world is adopting every vile and wicked practice and principle. We as members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints are becoming more peculiar in the world around us. 

Teaching the youth is a sacred responsibility. At such a vulnerable age, they long to fit in, and the idea of standing out isn't always easy for some. They live in a media saturated world that bombards them with counterfeit teachings. They see wickedness portrayed as happiness, and evil practices are celebrated and encouraged. 

Over twenty-five years ago Elder Bruce R McConkie put it this way, 

"The Church is like a great caravan—organized, prepared, following an appointed course, with its captains of tens and captains of hundreds all in place.

What does it matter if a few barking dogs snap at the heels of the weary travelers? Or that predators claim those few who fall by the way? The caravan moves on.

Are there storms that rage along the way, floods that wash away the bridges, deserts to cross, and rivers to ford? Such is life in this fallen sphere. The caravan moves on.

Ahead is the celestial city, the eternal Zion of our God, where all who maintain their position in the caravan shall find food and drink and rest. Thank God that the caravan moves on!"

We are fighting a great battle. Satan is relentless, but we already know that Jesus Christ, and we as his people, will triumph in the end. So today I say, let the little dogs bark. Let the storms rage. The caravan moves on. 

With Hope, L 

Read Across America

Happy Read Across America Day! It's Dr Seuss's birthday and we are celebrating! For Young Women's tonight we're having a children's storybook party! I'm very excited!! I love children's books. The simplicity, the insightful messages, the fabulous illustrations... 

Being surrounded by educators, Mauri is already well on the path to literacy. One day I caught her sitting in her vintage rocking horse chair quietly reading. It was too cute! She was telling herself a story according to what she saw in the pictures. That's the great thing about books, they open the door to so much creativity and imagination.

I'm actually working on some ideas for writing and illustrating a children's book myself. I know, almost everyone fancies themselves a writer, but right now I'm all about exploring ideas. It's something I've always dreamed of... so we'll see!

Hope you celebrate too! Grab your favorite book, get cozy, and let yourself get lost in the pages!

With Love, 

L

Splendid Day!

Just a little card with some extras from my recent "More than a Princess" page. Usually when creating a layout I end up with a few extra accents that just didn't work on the page. I always save those little bits and pieces because they're perfect for a quick card!

The sun is shining and spring is on the horizon. Have a splendid day!

With Love,
L