Coffee Break Lane

Drawing

A friend recently requested that I post some of my drawings.
Well, its been a while since I've had time to sit and draw, but the time finally came today, so I thought I'd do as requested.
I admit, I'm a little rusty at the moment, so its not great. But not alot beats sitting inside on a rainy day, music up loud, drawing. (This is the drawing as a work in progress - i did a bit more after taking this pic)

Meanwhile, here is a selection from my HSC major work. They still sit in a box in my room but I got them out to look at again the other day...

posted by Chelsea Taylor @ 2:08 PM 5 comments

I want to spend a week just painting
And drawing
I want to go to Italy
I want to love
And be loved in return
I want to drive the great ocean road with good friends, good music, and my camera
I want to see Candy
I want to be called beautiful by someone who believes it
I want to make a film
I want to have nothing else to do but study God's word
I want to road trip across America
I want to sit on the beach, look at the stars, and listen to each wave as God brings it crashing to the shore
I want to see those I know and love come to know Jesus
I want to listen to music all day long
I want to read every book my friends recommend
And see every film on my list
I want to see my family more
I want to try more flavours of tea
I want to be the girl in the red hat
I want to have time to read the pile of photography mags sitting by my desk
And take photos as good as those in them
I want to see the girls in my bible study committed and strong
I want to know what to do with my future

This list aint in any sense complete. There are things here that will happen. There are some that will merely remain a dream. And there are things not on here that are have much more importance.

But what I need?
What I need is one thing. Christ Jesus.

posted by Chelsea Taylor @ 1:10 PM 4 comments

Harder Now That It's Over

This title was brought to you by the singer of songs that have been stuck in my head these past few days – prize goes to the first person who can tell me who this musician is (without cheating)!

This week has been one of those weeks where there is a severe lack of sleep yet its also extremely enjoyable at the same time!

Monday saw my last assessment for the week handed in! YES!! Such a good feeling!

However, holidays couldnt be fully enjoyed until, well today, as the rest of the week was spent either filming or making stuff for filming!
Tuesday we were down on a farm in Helensburgh. Lets just say that when you work with kids and animals on the same day its bound to be just a tad crazy. Especially when it rains! Filming the Journey of the Magi scene, with two kids on Shetland ponies been led by a cute little girl dressed as an angel carrying a star, there was the unfortunate accident of a child falling from a horse…but don’t worry, no children were harmed in the making of this dvd…
...us props people did get a bit of a workout though, as Colin and Rob decided that the perfect location for the Herod scene was at the very bottom of the farm, which meant us running up and down a rather uneven and steep hill about 20 times...
Thursday was spent setting up the studio - which of course took about 3 hours longer than planned as the sign in the picture needed to be put together and hung!

Friday involved about 11 hours of work in the studio. Which was stressful at times, but mostly quite enjoyable. The studio (at Anglican Media) is quite small, but it was fun getting to work there, not just the various locations we've been to over the weeks. I have mixed feelings about it all been over now, friday been the last day - it was a good experience and overall fun times, but its nice to have the crazy hours over and get into holidays!
The day at the studio was followed by me rushing off to Bible study, where prayer diaries were made with my girls. B/S the week before had been absoluately insane with basically constant chatter from the girls, but this week I was pleasantly suprised (and reminded of the power of God working within them) as we recapped the previous week, and they actually rememberd a whole lot of stuff!! praise God! very exciting!

Post Bible study was some enjoyable R&R (finally) as good films were watched, new friends were met, and good conversation was had. Ok, so I ended up being awake for about 22 hours on friday, getting to bed about 4am, but it was totally worth it! Holidays had begun and amongst everything else that evening, I was incredibly encouraged by a conversation about Judges, how it can still apply to us today, and basically God's amazing grace! Yup, who wants to sleep when these things can be enjoyed?! Bring on more nights like this i say!

Speaking of God's grace, that was the topic of this mornings talk at TC (See Ephesians)! It is so important, amazing, and humbling to be reminded of how much we do not deserve this gift God so lovingly and freely gives us.
Yes, He cannot love me more, and He will not love me less.
To quote Steven Curtis Chapman, "I am speechles, I'm astonished and amazed!"
I am incredibly thankful!

After the talk this song by Starfield was played. Here's is the chorus - sums it up pretty well:

"And I know I'm weak, I know I'm unworthy,
To call upon Your name.
But because of grace, because of Your mercy,
I stand here unashamed"

posted by Chelsea Taylor @ 5:38 PM 5 comments

Associations

posted by Chelsea Taylor @ 10:44 PM 9 comments

Praise

Last night I had a friend's 21st.
Now, although it felt like i had the same conversation with about 20 people about every 10 mins as we saw people we havent seen in about 3 years and established what everyone is up to, it was a great night! Great to see all these people again. And most significantly, great to celebrate Amy's birthday!
So this year has already been filled with many a 21st celebration, but there was something extra special about this one. It wasnt just cos Amy was one of my best friends throughout high school. It wasnt just that she is one of the most sweetest, caring, loving, humble people I know. Although these things are both true and important, it was the fact that Amy has been through a lot more in her 21 years than some people have to in a lifetime. Having battled cancer as well as heart condition, it is a blessing that Ams is here, just as positive and happy and faithful to the Lord as always! I therefore thank and praise God for last night, and for Amy, a constant encouragement and joy to all who know her!

On that note, I just have to say, praise God for TC (youth group)! We had such a good morning this morning, and it really is such a joy to see the kids get into it and grow in their love and knowledge of Jesus. And be reminded myself too that we are to live by faith alone - something that is often hard to practically apply, but what its all about!

Take Two

In other news....
This past week has been insane with two essays due, work, and day two of filming on thursday. A 12 hour day, so again, a little tiring, but still enjoyable. Ok, so the christmas tree did fall down on top of the talent during a scene, but I maintain its not my fault, i suggested tying it up, but colin is faithful to his gaffer tape...
And there were a few times when I wondered just what I was doing there, hiding behind a dressing table holding a ruler attatched to an alarm clock, ready to shake it on cue. Or sitting outside on a freezing cold night watching Colin dressed as a cowboy sitting by a campfire next to national park and with a fake horse beside him... But it was good, and as i said last time, they are great people to work with! I have to say it was an encouragement to chat to Rob (producer/director) more about his faith as we endured the trip to Heathcoate!
Just 3 more days of filming to come - looking forward to them!

For now, its back to work. One more paper to go, due tomorrow, and then freeeedom! Bring it on! :)

Oh, driving to Annandale early thursday morning I very much regreted not bringing my camera with me as we were presented with an amazing sunrise! Never fear though, it has inspired me to resist the desire for sleep and embrace another early morning photo expedition sometime soon...Anyone keen to join me?!

My brother was home again this weekend - and although we didnt get to see him much, it was good to see him as always. Here's a pic of us (not the best one, but a bit of fun hehe)

posted by Chelsea Taylor @ 2:11 PM 1 comments

lowly things...

Do you ever just feel really incompetent? I know that most of the time when I do I really shouldn’t, but still the feeling creeps in. Surely I’m not alone in this feeling?
I guess this is one of those tensions that seem to exist in life though. I feel inadequate in giving wisdom to those who seek it, in giving the wisest response in Bible study, in having enough wisdom and knowledge to lead a group of teenage girls through Bible study for another three years. But when you look at 1 Corinthians I cannot help but be completely humbled and entirely comforted. Because the Spirit is within me. It is only with and through the spirit that I can gain wisdom and understanding of God’s will and word and grow in Christ-likeness. Ok, so I know this doesn’t mean I can sit back and relax and not worry about the aforementioned things, but it does mean I can have confidence – a confidence that only comes with the knowledge that the Spirit is working in and through me - me a mere 20 yr old girl just as sinful as the next, just as incompetent as the next, just as unimpressive as the next, especially when I rely on myself alone.

I had planned to write a post about Love, in response to and reflection on the words preached by Peter Jenson at CCSI on Sunday night. No doubt this post will come soon, but for now I just wanted, and needed, to express the lesson in humility 1 Corinthians continues to be. And what joy and comfort and confidence we should take in knowing that God is with us, within us, and working through us, in all that we do and say. My words spoken to those whom I lead do not rest on my wisdom alone, but on the power of God. And in my weakness He may strengthen me and use me for His good. I am His humble servant.

I know this has been a bit of a theme in my last few posts, I apologise if it has become repetitious, but I guess its just something that God has been reminding me of and which I could not look past. I hope and pray this can encourage and challenge you too.
If you want to have a better idea of what I’m talking about, read 1 Corinthians, chapters 1 and 2.
But for now I will leave you with these words from Paul:

“Brothers, think of what you were when you were called. Not many of you were wise by human standards; not many were influential; not many were of noble birth. But God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise; God chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong. He chose the lowly things of this world and the despised things—and the things that are not—to nullify the things that are, so that no one may boast before him. It is because of him that you are in Christ Jesus, who has become for us wisdom from God—that is, our righteousness, holiness and redemption. Therefore, as it is written: "Let him who boasts boast in the Lord." 1 Corinthians 1:26-31

posted by Chelsea Taylor @ 12:06 AM 4 comments

That's Impressive!

Let me tell you about three things which have impressed me this week.

One
Gena Rowlands. John Cassavetes. A film called ‘A Woman Under The Influence’.
This is what we watched in my last film class of the semester (and probably of my entire uni career). Cassavetes is the director, Rowlands is his wife and the leading actress. I was impressed with this film. Mostly with the acting. It’s a pretty emotional film about a woman (Rowlands) who is ‘crazy’ (don’t really like that term but we aren’t told what her illness is) and basically how she and her family interact. The acting is what makes this film though, in my opinion. The actors/characters interact so naturally that you cannot help but be moved by their performances and the sad or funny scenes set before you. If you are a fan of quality acting and enjoy emotional films, definitely check this one out!
I was particularly impressed with Rowlands performance (who you may have also seen in The Notebook or Hope Floats). Its all in her gestures, her movements, the way her eyes can appear distant. I have to acknowledge though, that another favourite part of the film was the interaction between husband and wife. Nick, the husband, so obviously deeply loves his wife. The way he looks at her then smiles I couldn’t help be moved by (yes, again we see I’m a romantic). But its also the way he holds her tight, tells her he loves her, and asks for her to return to him, having fought against and watched her eccentric behaviour for too long. How do you deal with the want to help someone you love when you cant?! You cannot have such an emotional reaction to a film like this without such quality acting, so here I make a tribute to all involved in that film.

Two.
Friday night saw another quality night of Bible study with my girls. I cannot express the joy that comes from seeing them get so into the Bible. To be told several times during and after a study how great it was, how encouraged they were by it, and how much they appreciate it is in itself just so encouraging, knowing that it is nothing that I do, but all God, it is one of those things where you can just see so clearly the power of God working. We are doing a series on prayer and this week looked at the prayer life of Paul. It is awesome to see how challenged and encouraged they were by his example and to change in their own lives. I hope and pray that desire continues. All this is ‘impressive’ in an entirely different sense though – it simply brings joy and encouragement.

Three
Saturday was spent at Sutherland Shire Christian School. From 7:30am til about 8:45pm was spent filming for Colin Buchanan’s dvd. My first day working on it, and I have to say, although tiring, it was really enjoyable. I could say a lot more about this day, but this post is already too long. I was impressed with the team, with how welcome and easily I felt apart of the team, with the willingness of parents (of kids in the film) to help out wherever they could, and especially with the work and dedication of our director, who although was pretty sick and feeling very average, managed to do an excellent job, and even dance around on set as a crazy Mexican TV game show presenter! Thats impressive!

With all this talk of impressiveness though, let me ask you a few questions:
What do you find impressive? How do you try to be impressive? Who do you try to impress?

And more importantly, do you think the cross of Christ is impressive?

At TC this morning Ed, one of the MTS workers at CCSI, spoke on how the death of Jesus on a Roman cross seems such a foolish and unimpressive act for a man meant to be King. So unimpressive by the standards of this world. Beaten, mocked, and crucified naked. Yet, the power of God. What may seem foolish is actually the wisdom and power of God at its greatest! After all, this act which seems so foolish brings you and me into a relationship with our Heavenly Father.

So, who are you concerned about impressing? The world who will pass away, or God, who impacts eternity? The cross isnt impressive, its brutal. But do not be embarrassed by it, for it is through Christ alone that you may enter God's kingdom.

posted by Chelsea Taylor @ 5:18 PM 2 comments

Humble Yourselves

I admit I am tired and should be in bed, and my last post was not long ago, and I still want you to read it and respond (so see below!) but I just wanted to share with you a few things from Bible study tonight:

• "Brothers, think of what you were when you were called. Not many of you were wise by human standards; not many were influential; not many were of noble birth. But God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise; God chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong." 1 Corinthians 1:26-27 - I am nothing special, yet loved and chosen by the Lord! We should not to be discouraged when someone does not respond well to our faith in Jesus, we should in fact expect it, afterall, that is how God planned it would happen, as to man it does not make sense til the spirit is with them; his wisdom of Jesus on the Christ is foolish in the world's eyes.
  
  
• "When I came to you, brothers, I did not come with eloquence or superior wisdom as I proclaimed to you the testimony about God" 1 Corinthians 2:1 - Be thankful that it is not how we say anything but it is God that works through us and in those we speak to that really changes hearts and lives.
  
  
• "For I resolved to know nothing while I was with you except Jesus Christ and him crucified." 1 Corinthians 2:2 - I love this verse. So simple. It is all we need.
  
  
• A great night of fellowship. I cannot help but be greatly encouraged....and humbled.
  
  
• We also started to plan Treestump (the camp we have with yrs 7-9 in these coming holidays) - I am soo excited! :)
  
  

Meanwhile, I read in a photography magazine today about a trip to Hamilton Island with Ken Duncan and other photographers!! Yes, 6 nights in the Whitsundays taking photos with the professionals! Soo keen!
That is if I happen to find an extra few thousand dollars somewhere....hmm....

posted by Chelsea Taylor @ 11:20 PM 2 comments

Tea & Tunes

"what a beautiful thing when you sing
Hear all them bells ringing out in the street
Hammer strikes the metal and it makes me believe
Blue sky cracking and it makes me believe"

The women of 645 (evening congregation at CCSI) enjoyed fellowship over High Tea after church this sunday. It was very good to meet some more women of different ages with whom I am united in Christ.
On the tables, along with scones, jam and cream, there sat some questions to prompt discussion. One of those questions was along the lines of "What do you enjoy listening to when you drink tea?"
I think thats actually an interesting question! Of course, it does depend on a number of factors... But I wanna know what your response would be?!

The above lyrics come from a song called "Life is Beautiful" by Ryan Adams - what I was listening to this afternoon when enjoying a cup of tea. Things seem to be that much better when good tunes are played.
I recently got out my Ryan Adams cds again, and I have to say, that although some of this lyrics may be depressing, this man has a way with words (and I can actually relate to a lot of them!).
I have recently discovered a few treasures on his newest album too - 29. My favourite so far seems to be "Elizabeth, You Were Born To Play That Part" (have a listen on his here)

(I have also recently purchased a few Ben Harper classics - 'Live From Mars' and 'Welcome to the Cruel World'. At this point in time, 'I'll Rise' is standing out as one of the faves. Get your hands on a bit of Ben I say! Always good to get you through study...and to accompany a good cup of tea!)

posted by Chelsea Taylor @ 6:17 PM 2 comments