Kelley Jordan Photography

Paris at last

kjpadmin — Tue, 14 May 2013 03:08:38 +0000

I’ve been home for a little over a month now and I’ve done little more than glance at my photos from Europe. I had high hopes for blogging consistently and keeping the internet world up to date with my travels, but I dare say that didn’t happen. I find it hard to be engrossed in life while maintaining an online presence. Sorry.

Now, I’m ready to reflect and share. But where to start? I spent three months in three countries, various cities and countrysides, with all sorts of people (and animals). Today I was reminded of Paris a few times, so I’ll start there. This is a look at the very last day of my 2013 European adventure: a rainy Paris day. It was beautiful.

Under Construction

kjpadmin — Tue, 19 Mar 2013 18:00:25 +0000

Bonjour mes amis! I’m working on my website right now. So if the galleries aren’t working properly, or if not much shows up, that’s the reason. Please look through my blog (using category tabs if you’d like) to view my work until it’s all fixed up. Cheers!

Presence

kjpadmin — Mon, 11 Mar 2013 20:50:25 +0000

Six and a half years ago I came to France and fell in love with food. I specifically remember cutting up zucchini in the quintessential French-style kitchen with sunlight pouring through the tall windows behind me. I was 21, on my first big adventure, and very, very lonely. Had it not been for an incredibly hospitable couple that welcomed me into their family, I don’t think I’d be able to reflect on my first experience in France with such fondness. Despite riding the highs and lows- the excitement of following my dreams accompanied by such homesickness, there I was- cooking in France.

And without any forethought of the parallels, here I am, 27 years old, chopping up zucchini for dinner in France, yet again. This time, I’m completely alone and at this precise moment, that’s okay. I’m learning to carry “home” with me. I can see my day as a series of moments- witnessing an old couple walk steadily down the narrow road; practicing my French with the kind and patient woman at the etal du fromage; catching myself dance to a favorite song as I stroll through an ancient cemetery; not minding staying up late to have Skype dates with my boyfriend; and of course, indulging in pain au chocolat much too often.

It’s far from perfect or ideal. In fact, yesterday I was ready to leave. But it’s about pushing through and getting to the moments when I remember to see all of the beauty, no matter now I feel.

“Knowing how to be solitary is central to the art of loving. When we can be alone, we can be with others without using them as a means of escape.” Bell Hooks

So here’s to growing up, solo adventures, and being present in the full life that surrounds us each and every day.

Edible Spring

kjpadmin — Mon, 11 Mar 2013 13:00:14 +0000

Welcome spring with the new Edible Indy issue! It’s chalk full of good stuff. I may be in Europe, but I have to admit that it makes me happy seeing evidence of KJP still in Indy.

Le Marché aux Puces

kjpadmin — Sun, 10 Mar 2013 15:37:50 +0000

I spent the morning at le marché aux puces on the north side of Paris yesterday morning and then made my way into the center of town. I have so many friends that I’d love to take to that flee market. C’était incroyable!