A Carolina Love . . .

A Weekend Recap on Tuesday According to my iPhone

2013-04-09T16:27:00.003-04:00

Proof that I tend to overthink is the fact that I had a whole long thought process on whether or not it was okay to do a weekend recap on a Tuesday.

As you can see, I decided it was.

This past weekend consisted of a whole bunch of nothing, which was pretty awesome and thankfully, my iPhone captured the best parts.

one. Staining kitchen cabinet doors

two. My adorable lunch date who wanted to wear my red shades

three. Afternoon gelato was necessary

four. Blood orange and chocolate = surprising tasty combo.

five. He was a big fan

six. A 12-string guitar! I loved it!

seven. I talked my brother into making lemon meringue pies

eight. He would not crack a smile, but he's cute regardless!

nine. A Sunday afternoon hike to Lake Wylie with a wonderful friend

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I'm honestly not sure the last time I took that many pictures in the span of two days, but as I said, it was a pretty awesome weekend. Also, the good thing about posting a weekend recap on a Tuesday is that we're all that much closer to the next weekend.

Obviously, this was my master plan all along.

P.S. I am thankful that spring has decided to fully make itself at home here in Charlotte because this whole back and forth thing was zero fun.

Don't Sweat the Small Stuff...Embrace It.

2013-04-08T08:49:00.002-04:00

We have all heard the saying "don't sweat the small stuff" and it's a saying I've caught myself mentally chanting a few times at work for the past couple of weeks. I totally think this should be a cliche for a reason because it is so easy to get wrapped up in the small things that if we let them, can stress us out or push us over the proverbial edge. Things that are out of our control or don't truly impact the bigger picture have no place to suck up joy and put negativity in it's place.

With that said, I also think the small things in our lives can absolutely be worth focusing on.

Let me pause and just ask that you just bare with me through this post because I have a point, and I hope to make it well.

I recently started "One Thousand Gifts" by Ann Voskamp and though I still have a ways to go, what I have read has made me think and literally think "huh." I love that. I love the feeling of being stretched in a way that makes me more sensitive to what God is wanting to teach me. And despite loving that, it also scares me. Me and my comfort zone have been hanging out for awhile now, and the thought of leaving it can be a little nerve wracking if I'm honest.

With that said, I'll get back to my point of focusing, and embracing, the small things.

And when I give thanks for the seemingly microscopic, I make a place

for God to grow within me.

- Ann Voskamp

Our lives are made up of details and those details, whether good or bad, are gifts from God. I feel that I too often will try to hurry through my day, week, whatever to get to the "big" thing. But what about the things I am missing by doing that? What is God trying to put in my path that I am too busy trying to get around so I can get to what I have deemed "it?"

It's not what you look at that matters, it's what you see.

- Henry David Thoreau

We know in life that it's the journey, not the destination, that shapes and molds us. Ultimately, my destination is in Heaven, but the time I have on this earth is my journey and I need to make it a priority to focus and appreciate it more. Lately, I have caught myself too often wanting and praying for some sort of change to take place. Whether this desire for "change" is with aspects of life in general or work or something else, it's happening too much for my liking.

...life change comes when we receive life with thanks

and ask for nothing to change.

- Ann Voskamp

What if, instead of looking and begging God for change, I was grateful for the abundance my life has?! Grateful for that I have a job to wake up and go to. Grateful to have a house that keeps us warm and dry and contains food and clothes. Grateful for the tiny little petals from the Bradford pear trees I walked through this morning that reminded me spring and life is here! What would happen to me if instead of allowing insignificant, negative things a place within me, I gave thanks to God for the "seemingly microscopic?"

The delicacy of petals from a pear tree.

The warmth the morning's first cup of coffee brings.

The comfort a slight breeze brings as it makes its way throughout the house.

It's Monday morning, which can be one of the toughest days of the week for some of us. But what if instead of focusing on the not so great things of Monday, I choose to see it as a fresh start and a chance to be better than I was last week?

So today, tomorrow and hopefully this week, I will actively seek to shift my mindset and choose to see and hold on the abundance God has given me in this life. I will lift my hands in thanks for not only the big, but the seemingly microscopic as well.

Normally

2013-03-29T07:00:00.000-04:00

Normally...I'm a crazy person this time of year, but with Carolina falling to Kansas last week, my sanity is pretty well in tact for the duration of March Madness.

Normally...I don't think at home workouts are as effective for me, but after doing the Xbox Nike Kinect Training two days in row, I respectively disagree with myself.

Normally...I prefer my morning beverage to be of the coffee persuasion, but chai tea has been speaking to my heart. I have had no problem listening.

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Just wish I had this to make and drink it from!

Normally...once I've seen someone in concert, I'm good for at least a year. This is not proving to be the case with Taylor Swift. She will in Washington, D.C. the same time as we will in May, but the hubs seems to think it would be a little excessive to go again. Not sure why he feels this way...

Normally...I am ready to cut my hair once it's started to grow out, but I'm really loving the length right now. If only we had the money for me to make it blonde again!

Normally...I try to rush through seasons/months, but I'm really trying to be better at being content not only in the time of year, but also where God has me.

Normally...I don't like reading serious books, or books that make me think, but I am LOVING "One Thousand Gifts." Talk about stretching my mind!

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I should also probably add normally I can barely write one post lately, so getting two done in one week is quite a feat! I am finding though that my love for blogging is slowly working it's way back, though, and that makes me quite happy!

Anything "abnormal" for you lately?

It Feels Like the Perfect Night

2013-03-25T07:30:00.000-04:00

Last October, Taylor Swift announced she would be starting her Red Tour this spring and ever since then, I've been counting down the days until she'd arrive in Charlotte on March 22.

I wish I was exaggerating when I say I literally searched for what I considered the "perfect" outfit for that night or that I made bets with myself on what her opening song would be. However, I'm not. When I get excited about something, it's all over. It's all I can think about (to a degree), but then because I'm me, I tried to slow the days down leading up to this past Friday because I knew once it was over, I'd be a little sad. It's kinda like Christmas; you build it up and you look forward to it, and then before you can name a song that doesn't have to do with a broken heart, it's over.

Andrew was supposed to go with me, but then I lovingly passed my cold from last week to him, so my friend, T, was my date. I think she was more than a little apprehensive, but she was excited for a reason to wear her cowboy boots!

Before the concert even started, I was told no less than five times that I "look just like her!" For the record I disagree, but I think she's pretty, so I take it as a compliment.

Ed Sheeran opened up the show and he was incredible! I love his voice and watching him play guitar is somewhat mesmerizing. Also, his British accent is pretty stinkin' adorable!

After he finished and the lights came back on for a few minutes, I obviously had to get a picture of these four sitting in front of us.

They were having the best time and they were sweet enough to give each of us a glow bracelet! I still have mine, but it's definitely no longer glowing.

Then the lights went down once more and deafening screams erupted throughout the arena.

A little more than halfway through this amazing show that I was enjoying from our amazing seats, one of my friends got a text that had the potential to make this night even better. This particular friend knew someone that was on the floor, and they let her know he and his group were leaving and wanted to know if she would want his four tickets.

Um. Yes, please!!

I honestly felt like I was in a dream when we got down to there because it just didn't seem like this could be my life.

Once I ~~regained my senses~~ ~~somewhat gained composure~~ realized I could hold the camera while still losing my mind, I managed to get some great shots of the last few songs.

It was an incredible show I would have loved just as much if I would've been in the last seat of the last row.

It's funny how much I love Taylor Swift now because I used to hate her music and didn't really care to know anything about her. I'm not sure where the turning point was, but I don't think I've ever changed my tune about someone as much as I have about her. I think she's an incredible song writer and I love her honesty with herself and with the world.

So despite not being a teenage girl, or 22, I had a pretty magical time!

The Big 0-5

2013-03-15T15:47:00.002-04:00

It doesn't seem possible that Sam is five years old today...

Little did I know that this tiny pup would make such a big impact on our lives.

We actually got Sam before we got married, because I had been wanting a puppy pretty much my whole last year of college. When we picked her up, I had no idea just how much she would teach us. We learned what it means to have take care of another living creature and that cleaning up poop and sometimes losing sleep would somehow make us love our four-legged child more than I can express.

I keep telling Andrew that Sam (and Dani) are going to live forever. I'm not delusional, just hopeful. So even though she's turning 5, it really does not mean she's getting older.

I've been scouring the internet for a good doggie birthday cake recipe, but thankfully, most of them seem to be very similar. Also, our dogs aren't known for being picky when it comes to what they eat, but I'm hopeful she'll like it. And she'll obviously share with her sister.

It's no secret that we love our dogs more than may be considered normal, but I can't imagine it any other way. They love of us more than we deserve, so I think we should love them an abnormal amount. And if that means baking doggie cakes and celebrating birthdays, than so be it!

Happy birthday to one of the sweetest dogs in the world!

3 Things

2013-03-13T09:00:00.000-04:00

As I mentioned here, I'm working working on getting out of my blogging funk, and I think baby steps may be the easiest way to do so! With that said, here are the top(ish) three things I'm loving lately.

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one. I recently reread all seven Harry Potter books and by doing so, my love for the series grew exponentially. However, I'm not sure how socially acceptable this love is seeing as how since I am now the ripe old age of 27, but I suppose it could always be worse.

As you can see, I'm missing a few, but thankfully, my Kindle solved that small problem. Also, it's a lot easier to read books whose page numbers venture into the upper hundreds with said Kindle. I thought about completing my hard copy collection, but the books will be released with new cover art this September, so I'm holding off.

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There was never a time I didn't love the series, but inexplicably, I love it more the second (or third/fourth for a couple of them) around. I somehow even managed to convince the hubs to take me here this year...

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The Wizarding World of Harry Potter! Hopefully he'll still accept me as his wife after we get here as I will not be making any apologies for how my excitement will be expressed.

two. This Saturday I'll be running my first 5k of 2013! Mind you, I use the term "running" a bit loosely since I'm still trying to emerge from my hibernation, but it'll be fun! Finally getting to do a Color Run and see what all the fuss is about with getting doused with colored powder every kilometer. Also, the fact I'll be running it with a sweet friend makes it that much more exciting!

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three. I was informed today by a friend of mine that we're a mere 10 days away from the Taylor Swift concert. This is something I have been looking forward to literally since October.

I wish I was kidding.

I saw her in concert in 2011 and I think that fact is just feeding my excitement for next Friday.

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Seriously, 2013 is starting out pretty dang awesomely :)

A Blogging Epiphany

2013-03-05T20:33:00.000-05:00

My last post was February 12. It is now March 5.

Does anyone else see a problem with that??

I do and since before February 12, I've been trying to figure out what that problem is. Do I not like blogging anymore? Do I want to stop writing about our semi-boring lives and random travels? The answer to both of those questions led me to believe that I was not ready to relinquish the title of "blogger."

That was the easy part, but now I was face with the hard part; figuring out what the aforementioned problem is and why blogging had become so difficult. After writing the most rambling, incoherent post of my life (or anyone elses for that matter), it dawned on me; I worry too much and put unnecessary pressure on myself. I am known for making things harder than they should be, but that never had a place in my ability to write.

Until now. Or, last year, to be more exact. Making things harder than they need to be is something I don't like nor want, but I am incredibly good at doing. I get in my head, get comfortable with making things complicated and find it nearly impossible to get out. Don't ask me to explain why I am this way because I am not even close to knowing.

So how does my worrying and unnecessary pressure building tie into writing? The not so simple answer to this came during an epiphany this past weekend; it's as though I'm worried that what I'm writing won't measure up to some non-existent scale, but last time I checked, there is no grading system for blogging.

(the more I write this post, the crazier I seem, but I'm committed to explaining myself, even if it's just to me)

Because of my severe lack of writing, my head has felt cluttered and the other part of the previously mentioned epiphany was me figuring out that blogging serves as a release for me. Even if the posts I write are essentially about nothing, it's just what I need. I write it out, read it and then move on.

I know the best way to get out of my head and to stop worrying, even about blogging, would be to dive headfirst into the good word of the Lord. I realize that is a very "Christian-y" thing to say, but truly, there is a difference when I am intertwining my days with His merciful words. The reminder of His unfailing grace and mercy over me restores me and guides me through the darkness that is my head.

Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

Philippians 4:4-7

Now, I realize that being a better blogger is not something that really warrants prayer, but I also know I am a better wife, friend and daughter when I don't let worry and pressure consume my days. I like blogging and I like being a social media butterfly. I don't think it takes away from my life, but adds to it. I like seeing what is going with my blogging "friends" and being part of such an awesomely bizarre community.

Blogging is my release and I owe it to myself (sorry to sound selfish) to put more time into it. My head needs it...my life needs it. I was hopeful that when I wrote this post, it would not be the chaotic mess that it ended up being, but I find it borderline comical. It is the epitome of a brain dump and it was completely and utterly what I needed.

So I ask you to just bare with me in these coming posts because changes are I'll need that grace thing that I mentioned earlier.

Updates and Whatnot

2013-02-12T07:30:00.000-05:00

It used to be that I willingly and easily could call myself a "blogger." Clearly, this is no longer the case. I want to keep blogging, but for some reason, it's not as easy as it once was. At the same time, it's not easy for me to give it up. I've clearly had no problem just not writing, but I don't like doing anything half way, nor do I want to stop attempting to blog.

Please say hello to my rock and hard place.

I totally plan on keeping the blame on 2012 for the time being, or at least until I decide I'm worthy of being a blogger again or if I'm going to just give up the title to someone else.

In the meantime, however, I will give an update on our house and my hair :) I mentioned here that two of my goals for February was to redo our kitchen cabinets and to figure out what to do with the big scary wall in our living room. Well I am happy to say that half that is done and the other half is well on it's way!

Apologies for the phone pictures, but it's just easier for right now. The big scary wall problem turned out to have a fairly simple solution; a pair of narrow bookshelves. It's amazing to me how much of a difference it made and I could not love it more.

That was the easy fix.

Has anyone stained kitchen cabinets? It's not easy and it's extremely time-consuming! I know that it will be worth it in the end, but at the moment, all I see is darkness in the tunnel. The good thing is, I had not a clue how difficult it was until we started and it's too late to stop now. It is exciting, though, to see how much of a difference little things can make in a home.

And finally, the hair update!

Bangs! My mom gave me a complex when I was little about bangs, so I was hesitant to get them when my hair lady suggested them, but I think I like them. It's definitely taking some getting used to!

Those are all of the updates for now, and hopefully the next time around I'll have a definitive answer on whether or not I can rightfully call myself a blogger.

Wish me luck.

A February To-Do List

2013-01-25T16:05:00.000-05:00

In an effort to not let 2013 pass me by at warp speed and to still get things accomplished, I'm going to create a list of things I want to do each month. Since we only have a handful of days left in this month, I will be implementing this list in February.

To hold myself accountable, I will be post what I hope to do each month on here. So without further adieu, I present to you my February list!

ONE: Finally redoing our kitchen cabinets using this seemingly straightforward tutorial.

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I have been saying since we moved into our house, oh three years ago, that I wanted to redo our ~~awful~~ original cabinets. I know this won't be a difficult task; just a time consuming one, which for me can prove to be quite difficult.

TWO: I would love to get back into the habit of running on a regular basis, and my hope for February is to run at least 20 miles.

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This may actually prove to be more difficult than it should, but it's a goal and I at least have to work toward it. I also realize that 20 miles in one month isn't a whole lot, but for the amount I have been running lately, it could still be tough :)

THREE. Figuring out what to do with the big scary wall behind our t.v. in our living room.

This wall puzzles me and stresses me out because not only is it big, but it's the focal point of our living room. Thankfully Pinerest has provided a couple of ideas...

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These are the three main things I'm going to focus on in February, but there is also a very good possibility I'll think of other things I need to do in the 28 days of the month! I'll try my absolute hardest to keep y'all posted on the progress.

On that note, I should probably also add blogging more to the the list :)

Wish me luck!

Today is Never Too Late

2013-01-18T09:35:00.000-05:00

Most people make their resolutions/goals/whatevers by January 1. I, however, need a bit more time to fully grasp that we have indeed began a fresh start and this is my chance to be set my eyes on what this year will bring and offer.

As I said here, 2012 was not my favorite, but that doesn't change the fact that it was necessary. Sometimes to appreciate being fully "awake," you have to be "asleep" for a little bit. That's what I felt like throughout too much of 2012; I lost sight on the things I enjoy and the things that make me happy.

I started writing for the Examiner last October, but somewhere along the way, I stopped driving my passion and allowed cruise control get me to the end of the year (I know you're loving all of my analogies in this post). I kept blaming my lack of writing on writers block, which is not a lie, but the other part of it is I just stopped putting in the effort it needed and deserved. If I want my dream of being a sports writer to come into fruition, I have to actually work for it.

Another thing I started last fall were guitar lessons. Now, keep in mind, I never have had aspirations to be a music star, but I would like to be able to play well. In order for this to happen, practice has to be constant and it has to happen. I skimped in both of these areas, and I'm making a vow to myself to not let that happen this year.

These are two things I enjoy and want to be better at and therefore, should have no problem committing free time to. But one thing I learned about myself last year is that when things aren't easy, I implement a defense mechanism called "laziness" OR I am just too busy with other things to focus on the things that I'm learning aren't easy.

With that said, one goal I have for this bright, shiny new year is to kick laziness to the curb. I'm not talking about just embracing having nothing to do because I believe there are times we all need to do that; I'm talking about letting life and it's blessings pass me by. No more!

Too often, I believe we set goals without actually taking the time to prayerfully preparing ourselves for what that entails. Words are easy, but in order for goals to be reached, action is a must. It's easy to get in a habit of doing "just enough" or only what is required; but my resolution for this year is to go beyond that. To be better than I was yesterday and still strive for improvement tomorrow.

I know we're in the latter half of January, but as a wise girl once said, "today is never too late to be brad new..." I have to remember that in whatever I do, I should do it all for the glory of God (1 Corinthians 10:31). God uses trials to teach us; I just have to be willing to learn. 2012 was a learning year and I will work to take those lessons into 2013.

Wordless Wednesday (for the most part)

2013-01-09T16:13:00.000-05:00

(Shock of all shocks, I plan on having a real, true post tomorrow...but until then, this is what y'all get!)

Normally, I would just share one picture for this type of post, but I couldn't choose between these two and I hope you love them as much as I do!

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So much of the time we're focused on going, going and then going a little bit more. This is just to remind each of us (myself included) that a calm life is more than enough to be happy about!

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One thing I want to attempt to like this year, is tea. Another thing I HAVE to attempt is to remember to savor the moments before jumping into the unknown or any "adventures" 2013 has in store for me/us.

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Happy middle of the week everyone!

Nashville and Christmas Recap!

2013-01-04T14:24:00.003-05:00

Here it is, the fourth day of the new year, and it just dawned on me that I hadn't blogged about our awesome trip to Music City or Christmas! Seriously. I promise one of my goals of 2013 is to blog more regularly.

The Wednesday before Christmas, we hit the road and arrived in Nashville mid-afternoon. And since it's in the Central timezone, we gained a hour which was a gift. We had enough time to relax before heading out to one of the most historical places in Nashville; the Bluebird Cafe. I was like a little kid before getting there just thinking about the artists that have been discovered or preformed there; Blake Shelton, Brad Paisley, Bonnie Raitt...Taylor Swift :)

Thursday was pretty low-key and consisted of venturing through downtown and the Country Music Hall of Fame. It was freezing and extremely windy, but it didn't matter to me; I was just so happy to be there.

Friday night we went to Opry Night at the Ryman, also known as the Mother Church of Country Music. I actually hadn't heard of most of the acts, but the last performance was from the Band Perry, which was pretty exciting.

Overall, I'd say we did our first trip to Nashville the right way. I hope to go back several more times because I kinda fell in love with the Music City. And who knows...maybe one of these days I'll get to grace the Bluebird Cafe stage. (I can dream, can't I?)

Fast forward a few days and we're back in Charlotte and it's Christmas eve. Before heading over to Andrew's parents, we took some time to pray and do our Christmas devotional. It was the perfect way to kick off what's always a magical night.

Per usual, the kids were kids and were so excited about what awaited beneath the tree. It's a special thing to spend Christmas with kids and see the magic through their eyes. After the festivities, we went home and watched a true Christmas classic...Charlie Brown Christmas. I love that movie so much and no December is complete without watching it at least once.

Christmas day was extremely relaxing since we just stayed home and ate, watched the Santa Clause, some basketball and then ate some more.

he can't play at all, but he looks cute faking it :)

hooray for a coffee maker!

our pretty tree lights

From start to finish, I'd say it was a pretty spectacular Christmas.

Peace Out 2012...Welcome 2013

2013-01-01T11:34:00.001-05:00

No offense, 2012, but I'm glad you're done. You had your fun moments, but there were a few too many trials for my taste. I will always embrace the ways God is stretching me and pushing me, but struggles are what they are, and that is hard. Don't get me wrong; I was blessed beyond belief, but that doesn't change the fact that at times it was just straight up hard.
2012 could be best be described as a roller coaster; one minute you were sweet and the next, bitter. You were a year of trials and triumphs; celebrations and goodbyes.

Last year was an absolute whirlwind of emotions, which is not something I handle very well and too much of the time, I felt as though I was on autopilot. I took on too much this year and it showed up in so many ways. The least of which was this blog. I missed it, but didn't have enough energy or desire left over to do anything about missing it.

My pledge to myself, my husband, and above all, my God, is to be still. Not physically, but mentally and emotionally. I pledge to embrace peace and quiet, but also be open to what God has in store for 2013. I pledge to be present in everything I do and to be thoughtful.

I pledge to live 2013 to the fullest.

As far as resolutions go, I suppose the above could be considered resolutions, but I plan on working on some true "resolutions" or goals that I'll post in the next few days.

So with this, I wave goodbye to a year of growth and say hello to a new year of God's mercies and teachings.

Happy New Year, everyone!

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Twas the Day Before Christmas!

2012-12-24T12:43:00.001-05:00

Merry Christmas eve, everyone!!!

Christmas arrives faster and faster with each passing year, but that doesn't change the fact that it's a beautiful and miraculous season. This is the time of year we're actively and purposefully preparing for Jesus. It's more than the glitter and lights; it's about the hope and unfailing love that came to earth all those years ago.

I pray that each of you have a magical Christmas!

Christmas Prayers, Treats and Travels

2012-12-18T10:20:00.001-05:00

Before I start this post, I feel I should preface with the fact I spent a great deal of time deliberating on whether or not I wanted to do a "normal" post today or not. We are all aware of the horrific nightmare that took place in Connecticut on Friday, but I also realize I could write a thousand posts about it and nothing would change. I will continue to do what I can do, which is to keep praying for the children and parents that are having to live the nightmare out as well as our country as a whole.

He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away. - Romans 21:4

I like to focus on the fact that those sweet souls will be getting to spend Christmas in Heaven and that lessens the sting for me a little bit.

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It's hard to believe we're down to single digits until Christmas! I believe the month of December should be a little longer because it's such a fun and festive month, and there is just not enough time do it all. Our home is and has been fully decked out and I'm pretty sure we got the best smelling tree in the world.

The guitar ornament in the top left corner was a sweet surprise from Andrew that made me squeal when he pointed it out. I should probably be ashamed to say that, but sadly, I'm not.

This past Saturday, we headed up to my grandparents for their yearly Christmas get together and I temporarily lost my mind because I didn't take a single picture. I was so bummed when I finally realized it, but I'm going to claim temporary insanity. On Sunday, we decorated Christmas cookies with our nieces and nephews, and let me tell you, this is is not an easy or pretty feat with 3 and 4 year-olds. It ends up being the type of thing where you're asking if you'd like some cookie with your icing, but they had a great time and that's what matters!

Yesterday I came home to a delightful little Christmas goodie box from Jill which also elicited some squeals of joy. I also instantly wanted to redo the package I had sent her (already making the resolution I will not be so busy next year), but more to come on that later!

Tomorrow Andrew and I will be hitting the road bright and early to make our way to Music City and the best way to describe what I'm feeling is with every synonym for excited!

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We were able to get an amazing hotel deal all because of a Facebook status. Seriously. It was proof that it truly never hurts to ask.

We've made plans to go to the Bluebird Cafe, Ryman Auditorium, the Country Music Hall of Fame, but if any of y'all are aware of somewhere else we should check out, please let me know!

The one thing I'm not so excited about is the drive to get there...over 6 and half hours! Now to some, that may not seem bad, but I hit the proverbial wall around the 3 hour mark. With this being the case, I'll need to fill up my Kindle with some good reading material, otherwise, my sweet husband may drop me off somewhere in this vicinity...

So please wish both of us luck with that and prayers for safe travel are appreciated!

Happy one week before Christmas everyone!!

Peaks, Pits, Praises and Prayers

2012-12-11T08:58:00.001-05:00

Today I'm linking up with Katie from Married...With a Pup for peaks, pits, praises, and prayers

Peaks:

Getting Taylor Swift tickets!! Though the concert isn't until next March, I feel positively giddy when I think about it

My grandparents Christmas get together is this Saturday and that's always a highlight for me
We went to our first Carolina game of the season this past Saturday and it was a fantastic game

Pits:

My one "pit" for the week is actually today; 8 years ago today, one of my dear friends passed away in his sleep and there probably isn't a day that goes by where I don't think about him.

Praises:

Seeing family this weekend
That our friends and family are happy and healthly
Having food in our cabinets and refrigerator
That both hubby and I have jobs
Being able to buy presents

Prayers:

Please pray that I allow the peace of God to consume me this season. I will praying the same for those in my life!
That I'm opened to opportunities that God presents to us to be a blessing this season and everyday

Please comment and link up with Katie to share your 4-P's!

Christmas Time is Here!

2012-12-10T07:30:00.000-05:00

So, I'm pretty sure to consider yourself a "blogger" you actually have to, you know, blog. This is becoming an apparent struggle for me as of late. It's quite puzzling really. I have no real reason for this to be the case and I keep hoping that this block will dissipate or at least fade a little.

So far, I haven't been so lucky.

I found myself telling someone the other day that 2013 will consist more of me/us staying put. 2012 started off busy and it's only fitting that we'll be traveling every weekend of the it's final month. Mind you, I am so excited for all of the places we're traveling to, but I'm ready to embrace being still, and that starts this Christmas season.

I realize we can't be still in the literal sense, but I want to rest more in the Lord and recognize everyday what this season is all about. Our halls are decked and presents are waiting to be wrapped, but more than anything, I want my heart and soul to completely at peace.

Each day goes by faster than the one before it. Sure, we all of days that seem like they'll never end, but for the most part, time flies and shows no signs of slowing down. It's hard for me to believe Christmas three weeks away because at times I feel like I'm searching for ways to "feel" this special holiday.

Does anyone else feel that way?

As a kid, it's a piece of cake to feel excited for this Christmas because you're anxiously awaiting Santa's arrival. But as adults, it's harder because we're in constant motion between work and life. Christmas has one true meaning and it's so important not to lose sight of that and something hubs and I have started doing, is this Christmas devotional.

This has started to be one of my favorites parts of the day for me. It's just a couple of minutes, but it's exactly the reminder we both need, not just at Christmas, but throughout the year.

Next Saturday, we'll be headed to my grandparents and then to an ugly Christmas sweater party. Both of these things I'm extremely excited about, but my concern is where to find a sweater to wear to said party! At Saturday night's Carolina game, I saw a perfect one...but it was on the woman sitting in front of us. Sadly, I didn't think it would be appropriate to tell her I believed it was the perfect one, nor do I think she would've gladly handed it over :)

I will you with the words below in hopes this is not my only post of the week! Happy Monday everyone!

Fear of Failure and Success

2012-11-21T12:12:00.001-05:00

Fear of failure is something many, if not most, of us are familiar with. No one likes to fail or disappoint or feel any sense of inadequacy, but chances are, at least one of the aforementioned has happened to us at some point. Unfortunately, it's a part of life.

And, fortunately, it's a part of life.

What if you never had a chance to fall flat on your face? Then you would never know how many times you were capable of standing back up again or the depth of God's grace. What if you never had another opportunity to do something better and settled for what is?

This is a difficult post for me to write because it's something I am currently struggling with. As I've mentioned, I've started writing for the Examiner in hopes of jump starting a passion into a career. It's no secret that I'm borderline obsessive with my feelings towards the North Carolina Tar Heels, so I may as well try to make a living being that way. I was so sure that this jump start would be one of the easier things I've done in my life. I'm writing about something I love. Win-win.

Except, what if it turns out I'm not good at it? Or, scarier still, what if it turns out I am good enough and could actually live out my dream? There is no concise way for me to explain these feelings, so you'll have to bear with me. Richard Dumb (the name is ironic to me) once said "Don't follow your drams; chase them." But when you chase something, there is no guarantee you'll catch it. And that my friends, is when faith must be bigger than my doubt.

Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to your life? Since you cannot do
this very little thing, why do you worry about the rest? - Luke 12:25-26

I cannot concern myself with what may or may not happen; the only thing I can control is if I'm glorifying God in the "chasing" process. To worry or to have disbelief is not what has been asked of me nor will it do a bit of good. At the risk of sounding negative, God never promised I would get to live out what I consider my dream. And in a weird, inexplicable way, that knowledge gives me peace. He allows me to try and work hard, and to have faith in knowing His will is what will prevail.

Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts
...and be thankful. - Colossians 3:15

On a less serious level, I've also realized the fear of failing and succeeding can also apply to me learning the guitar. I know I'm currently not a good guitar player, but I'm contributing money and time to learning how to play this instrument. There is no guarantee that I'll be good, but there is also the chance I could become good. Is the chance worth the hours and dollars? Who knows. The only way to find out is for me to put myself out there. I realize I'm only talking about a hobby, but for some reason, it's easier for me to explain. It's not my dream to rock out on stage, but it is my dream to write. The possibility of me spending months and years pursuing a writing career and never achieving it, is high.

But I'm just scared enough to find out.

via

This Time of Year

2012-11-19T16:36:00.000-05:00

As much as I brand myself as "crazy Christmas girl," I absolutely love this time of year. Knowing that we're standing on the threshold of the Christmas season, but still embracing the beauty of fall, just makes my heart smile.

Per usual, I cannot believe we've officially arrived at Thanksgiving week! Turkey Day is my second favorite holiday because it's purely dedicated to the celebration of thankfulness and family. And obviously eating too much and watching football :)

But in all seriousness, Thanksgiving is pretty awesome because it's not about presents and getting more; it's simply about being thankful.

via

This is also the time of year when I start thinking about our Christmas card.

Scratch that. I probably started thinking about that in June, but that's neither here nor there.

A couple of weekends ago, a dear, talented friend took a few pictures for us, and I fell in love with all of them! We went out to her husband's parents farm, which turned out to be the perfect setting. I won't fill this post up with all of them, but I can't help but sharing ~~a couple~~ a few!

love this one

this sweet one has photo ready!

And finally, another fantastic aspect of this time of year (at least in my opinion) are the sports taking place. I realize football, both college and professional, has been taking place for a few months, but college basketball has officially started, and that makes me a happy girl. As I mentioned here, I've started writing for the Examiner, and would love for y'all to check out my articles.

Happy Monday (which is actually kind of like a Wednesday for most of us)!

Once Upon a Time, I Blogged...

2012-11-10T12:37:00.001-05:00

Oh my blog! How I've missed you! Just when I think life is going to slow down long enough for me to actually be allowed to call myself a blogger, I'm proven wrong.

I hate being wrong.

I probably shouldn't be so shocked that my last post was in a different month, but here I am, shocked. And not only is it a different month, I am a different age.

That's right. I was 26 for my last blog post and I am now writing my next one at 27. Scary. I tried to convince everyone to let me stay 26, but still celebrate my birthday. They failed to see how that could work. My birthday was pretty low key, which was ideal considering the rest of this year has not been. Sweet husband got me a Kindle, which was exactly what I wanted!

Last weekend we went to a bonfire and had a great time. I'm starting to realize that we as humans rely too much on always doing something, and by humans, I mean me. We all had such a great time sitting around (on bales of hay I might add) and doing nothing but enjoying each others company. In world of being constantly connected, it was nice to be momentarily relieved of social media. Although I can neither confirm or deny if I posted this picture to Instagram.

And in other news, I've started writing for the Examiner! I would love for you guys to check me out :) The more visits, the better!

Sadly, this is all I have the capacity for on this lazy Saturday, but I PROMISE to post multiple times next week. Ambitious, I know.

Happy Saturday everyone!

A Mountain Getaway, Red and Chords

2012-10-25T07:00:00.000-04:00

Oh my goodness. Me and my sporadic blogging tendencies lately! Because of said tendncies, this post is going to be a little on the random side, but that's not really anything new.

There is so much I love about the month of October, but this particular October has been pretty fantastic and I'll be sad to see it go next week.

Pause.

How is it possible that November starts next week???

Unpause.

This past weekend, Andrew and I headed up to the mountains to enjoy time with friends and everything the little towns of Blowing Rock and Boone had to offer. The older I get, the more I realize how little I appreciated the surroundings I was blessed by in my time at Appalachian State. There is just something special about the little town that is at an altitude of 3,333 feet.

This was the adorable cabin we stayed in, which was surrounded by nothing but woods and I'm sure it could serve as the setting of a scary movie if needed.

I mean, this place was down a few miles of gravel, twisty roads and it would not be found on accident, but then again, I guess that's the point of having a getaway.

And this was the amazing view all around us, no matter where we were

In addition to the beautiful scenery, we also had the opportunity to hang out with some friends that we hadn't seen in a looooong time.

You know a good time was had when discussions for next year have already commenced. It was a wonderful weekend and I was sad to see it end.

But when the weekend ended, it meant that it was Monday and that meant the long awaited (at least by me) Taylor Swift album could finally be purchased.

I don't know the last time I purchased an actual CD, but since Target was the only place selling the "deluxe version," an actual CD was a must. I know a lot of people aren't loving the "new Taylor," but I am loving this album.

And finally, I've officially started guitar lessons! I've only had one, but I'm seriously loving it. Mostly focusing on scales and basic chords, but it's harder than I would've thought. Also, it's sad that I've played my guitar more in the last week than in the last year.

Okay, maybe not quite, but probably pretty close. My goal is to learn a Christmas song, so wish me luck!

See? Random. Happy Thursday, everyone!

Weekend Recap & Looking Ahead

2012-10-16T07:30:00.000-04:00

If you haven't gathered, I like fall. And in my world, "like" means "love in a borderline obsessive way." What can I say? I don't like doing things halfway and absolutely believe seasons should be celebrated.

This past Saturday, I was able to go on an apple picking adventure with my friends Alisha and Jen at the Apple Hill Orchards. I was a little worried because I have the tendency to build things up and then I'm left feeling let down when my expectations aren't met. In this case, though, my worrying was unnecessary and incredibly pointless. We could not have asked for better weather or a more perfect place. When it was all said and done, we picked approximately 50 apples and it cost less than $20, which means picking your own is not only fun, but is financially smart. I love a win-win.

Another fantastic thing about this weekend was I had my first experience with Whole Foods. One visit and I am hooked! It would be great if the prices would work their way down a little, but regardless, it was a magical place (at least by grocery store standards). It's on our way home from church, so I could see that being ~~a blessing~~ an issue in the future.

Speaking of church, this Sunday's sermon, was amazing. There is no way for me to summarize it in one word, but here are a few of the notes that I took...

+ when God wants to teach me something, He will take me to a place where I'm uneasy
+ if God is in it, it won't fail
+ when you stop defending yourself, Jesus will become your defender
+ you can't live life painting leaky spots; allow God to seal you up with His ways
+ can't blame "being leaky" the weather or problems; they're inevitable
+ faith is not built on answers; it's built while you wait. Faith is made during the delay

I love when I'm open to what God wants me to hear as opposed to sitting in the pew thinking our pastor is talking to all of those around me. The only way to grow and learn is to actually be teachable.

This coming weekend will be spent with our friends, Chris and Kristen, and an adorable cabin in Blowing Rock. Part of me feels like a 65 year old woman because one of the things I'm most excited about is seeing the leaves, but how can you not appreciate this...

via E.Young

I know this season will be ending soon, so I plan on embracing each moment that comes my way. Even if that means I'm acting 30 years older than I currently am.

October Reflections

2012-10-05T09:05:00.000-04:00

I wish I could come up with a new excuse for being a terrible blogger. Sadly, I'm not that clever nor do I have a truly valid reason other than, I'm a terrible blogger.

Well, now that's out of the way, I'll try to catch y'all up on my world the past couple of weeks. My friend, Allison, one amazing wedding weekend that was beautiful from beginning to end...

It's been a blessing to be apart of their journey so far and to celebrate them on the day that changed their lives.

Between the "I do's" and the bundle of joys that have been welcomed into this world, 2012 has proved to be a year of wonderful change for so many of my friends. It's hard for me to believe how this year has flown by the way it has. Seeing as how it's only October, I realize it's a bit early to start reminiscing, but I also know that if you don't take purposeful pause in your life, you miss it.

Another thing I've learned as the days of 2012 have flown by, is that happiness and joy are not synonymous. Being happy is an emotion that can change depending on the moment; joy is a gift from God that no one or nothing can take from you. Joy is what gets us through the day and it's our choice to recognize that. Work, family, friends, finances, (insert whatever else), can effect our mood or our day, but it's our choice on whether or not those things effect our lives.

In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.

- John 16:33

So, my challenge to myself, and to you, is to choose joy over whatever the world wants to hurl toward me. I'll try my hardest to catch it and deal with it, but I know that I'm not alone in that game of catch. God's hands are bigger, stronger and more reliable than mine could ever be.

via

My Plan for Today

2012-09-29T11:33:00.002-04:00

This is my plan for the day

It appears the bug that has been making it's way around finally caught me. So you can find me on the couch with the items pictured above and some college football on the television. I hope everyone enjoys their last September Saturday!

Well, Hey There...Remember Me?

2012-09-25T09:37:00.001-04:00

If there is such a thing as blog withdrawal, I have it. The good thing is, life is finally starting to slow down, therefore, I plan on actually having things to say again.

Just not this morning.

So I will let Pinterest speak for me...

Happy Tuesday, everyone!

(all images from this board)