letters from coco

and the world spins on

2012-11-15T10:31:00.001-08:00

Hi. It's been so long since I've sat down to write here that I actually forgot my log in info. But here I am! I've been busy trying to keep up with the holiday whirlwand in the shop, chasing my 3 guys + even doing a little redecorating in my little home sweet home. Here's a little recap of life as of late...

in a phrase or word- Take my heart + let it be, ever only all for thee.
I'm dreaming of you- day drive up north with my love. It's nice to run away even just for a day.
music on repeat- The Brilliance.
gotta write it down- {An inch of time is worth an inch of gold. But you can't buy that inch of time with an inch of gold. + Only one life which will soon be passed. Only whats done for Christ will last.} <<< remember this every day!
lesson learned- I need to stop constantly thinking about everything I do wrong + focus on who God says I am >>> Ephesians 1:4-8. + Make sure I'm doing what is important to Him--not just what is important to everyone else.
looking forward to- eating a big bowl of black olives + green bean casserole. My Thanksgiving day favorites.
picture to frame- A couple recent favorites...

My little guy is going to be 6 months already!

weekend to do list- Hanging with my favorite guys in the world.

{I rarely find a quiet moment to catch up on here but you can follow my daily happenings on Instagram if you'd like: @colefranke.}

wake up early, stay up late

2012-09-21T18:15:00.000-07:00

This is our routine most days. It seems like there are always a million things on the to-do list. I can't remember the last time I actually sat down and watched (not just listened while working) to a TV show. A friend reminded me a few weeks back to stop + enjoy my time with my boys while they are young. I get caught up in all the busyness and forget that they are more beautiful than anything I'm ever going to craft. My time with them is the most important. I need to not be in a hurry for a season to pass. I need to really soak in this special time with our little guys.

This past week we hit the road and took a beach trip with the family. Micah turned six. The boys experienced Disneyland for the first time. We enjoyed 5 whole days of nothing but having fun with them. It was the perfect end to the summer.

No matter how crazy things get, I need to remember to focus my efforts on today. Sow my best today, reap the blessings tomorrow. These boys are going to play a big part in God's next generation. I'm so happy that He let me be their mommy. That I get to love on them, teach them and watch them grow up to be amazing men. I don't ever want to take that for granted.

A call to all my blog friends...

2012-09-07T14:51:00.004-07:00

Over the past two years, you all have been some of my biggest supporters with my little handmade business. You've helped me spread the word, have purchased items from me and some of you have even spent nights cutting hundreds of petals with me. I can't thank you enough for everything. It's been one fun adventure so far.

Two weeks ago I decided to enter the Martha Stewart American Made contest for fun. I didn't actually think out of the thousands of designers/creators entering that I actually had a shot. But guess what...

I'm completely in shock! God is SO good. I can't believe all the surprises He throws my way. I'm just plain giddy over here today. To win this award would mean being honored at the American Made Awards, winning $10,000, and having an appearance in Martha Stewart Living magazine.

Would you please consider helping me spread the word about this contest and asking some of your friends to send a vote my way. Starting today until September 24th, you can vote once per day for the creative entrepreneur of your choice. I would be so so grateful. Thank you friends so much!

Vote for Nicole Franke here --->

http://americanmade.marthastewart.com

bring life to my stale love

2012-08-22T17:21:00.000-07:00

I admit it, I was kind of in and out of a funk for awhile. That's mostly the reason for my lack of writing over the past several months. (That + 3 boys in the house) I was constantly feeling worn out, busy-ness was my top excuse for pushing my time with God down to the bottom of my priority list. And when I'm away from Him I become really apathetic. You would think that I would have learned by now. Which is why I'm hoping to start writing here more. This is my journal, my little reminders + encouragements to self (+ whoever happens to stop by too).

Finally it came time to shake the dust off and get back on my feet. I can't bring glory to God by being run down all the time. That's why I'm here, to know Him + make Him known right? So I ran home and was welcomed back with open arms. I'll never understand why God is so good to me. I have felt so much joy in the past couple of weeks and seen some pretty miraculous things happen. I'm also realizing that the more time I spend with Him, the more I start to genuinely care about other people. Not just love them in my head, but really love them like He does. Not just old, ~~stale love~~. Hopefully you know what I mean. It's exciting to spend time with God. Really it is! I'm excited to see what He's going to do next.

{My prayer for today}

This morning I was reading the parable of the sower in Matthew 13. I read the part about the seed on the stony places, who hears the word + receives it, but it doesn't last because there's no root. That's been me. Then I read about the seed among the thorns who hears the word, but the desires of the world choke the word and he remains unfruitful. That's been me too. Finally it talks about the seed on the good ground who hears the word and understands it and bears lots of fruit. I really want to be this one. Jesus says several times when he's telling these stories, "he who has ears to hear, let him hear!" When I read that I just want to shout, "God let me hear it + get it!" I want to bear fruit and I know that the only way that's going to happen is if I stay close to Him.

{Abide in me, and I in you, as the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you unless you abide in me.}

Jesus said apart from me you can do nothing. I don't want to be apart from Him again. You can't know Him without spending that alone time with Him. So I want to make the decision every morning to know my savior.

I like Friday

2012-08-17T13:08:00.001-07:00

a quick ~~week~~monthly recap because this busy mama is a horrible blogger...

in a phrase- one day at a time
I'm dreaming of you- 29 days until I'm sitting on a beach
music on repeat- needtobreathe + of monsters and men
gotta write it down- {Jesus isn't looking for converts, He's looking for a bride.} -from father of lights I love this! Sometimes I get overwhelmed with everything else and forget this. It's really all about love. About relationship. About being a light in the world on His behalf, because of that intimacy.
lesson learned- I really shouldn't have waited this long to change my business name. ~~Procrastination~~ is never good.
looking forward to- reading Darren Wilson-Filming God + Christine Caine- Undaunted. I'm also starting a new Beth Moore study with my mama. So need it + looking forward to it.
highlight of the week- Acting like a kid with Stephen + Micah, throwing hundreds of ping pong balls up in the air and at each other. + My shop had a birthday! Two-Years-Old already.

picture to frame- he just gets cuter every single day.
weekend to do list- to be decided. I hope it's a lazy one.

{I rarely find a quiet moment to catch up on here but you can follow my daily happenings on Instagram if you'd like: @colefranke.}

soaking it in

2012-07-26T19:31:00.001-07:00

I used to be a much better blogger. Now this space has really just become a way for me to collect memories + thoughts that my 27 year old brain has a hard time remembering. I don't want to forget one moment with my guys. I love that later on they can come here and read my inspirations + all our happenings.

Right now I'm enjoying this calm. We've adjusted pretty nicely to life with 3 boys in the house. My little handmade business is growing rapidly and I feel like I'm finally able to juggle it all again. But things never stay quiet for long. Something big is on the horizon and before life completely changes directions (tell you about that later) I'm just going to soak in all the blessings in this current season of life.

Mr. Madden is 2 months right now. He weighed in at nearly 16lbs at his 1 month check up.

To say he is a big boy is an understatement. I'm enjoying every second with him.

My mellow, sweet baby. Can't get enough of him!

Big brothers are obsessed with this guy. He's not mama's baby, he's Skylar's baby.

That's what I'm told everyday.

Micah + Skylar are best friends right now. Lucky mommy.

I hope my boys are always each others best friends.

We're off to a good start.

Recently... (Sorry if you've already seen these on FB or IG)

I'm sitting here typing this feeling so grateful for God's goodness to me. I've been thinking about all the dreams I've watched God fulfill in my life in the past 6-7 years. And now He's still at work unveiling new, maybe a little scarier dreams. I learned a few years ago that when you ask God for something big, make sure you really mean it because He who promised is faithful. I'll just continue soaking all this in until He leads me to bigger dreams.

life currently...

2012-07-04T12:16:00.001-07:00

in a phrase- "to everything there is a season, a time for every purpose under the sun."

I'm dreaming of you- big scary exciting adventures
song on repeat- rend collective experiment-desert soul
gotta write it down- "Sometimes we are educated way beyond what we are willing to do. Obedience brings breakthrough not mere knowledge." - Joyce Meyer
lesson learned- {God doesn't move according to our schedules + deadlines. We can't give up on the dreams He's given us because they didn't happen when we expected them to.}
highlight of the week- My baby is 3 today!

picture to frame-

weekend to do list- Escaping the heat for a few days with my husband, babe + a few close friends. Pretty mountains here we come!

Happy Independence Day!

I like you

2012-06-20T11:50:00.003-07:00

I woke up this morning feeling good. Last night was the first night in a really really long time that I slept for 6+ hours. My husband is out of town and after 7 years of having him sleeping next to me, my brain has things programmed to where I don't sleep on nights he's away. So I woke up squished in with my boys feeling super thankful for some extra rest.

I woke up thinking about how good God has been to me, even when I feel like I don't deserve it. I'm so thankful that He loves me + fills me up when I feel empty. {The Lord will guide you continually, giving you water when you are dry and restoring your strength. You will be like a well-watered garden, like an ever flowing spring. Isaiah 58:11} I love this verse right now. I'm finally feeling some strength in these bones again. I'm reminding myself that I go from empty to full, find joy + feel fully alive when I stay close to the source. So thankful He always guides me back to Him.

It's been awhile since I made a list of things making me happy lately...

Turning 27. Having time to do some fun reading. Friends that bring me brunch when I'm afraid to go anywhere with 3 kids by myself. ha! Getting back to the workout routine. Mr. Madden turns 1 month on Friday. Starting fall wedding orders. I love fall wedding colors. Having a sleepover with a best friend + our kids. Being able to hike again.

~~Washing my cell phone~~ not a favorite moment this week but finding old videos like this one on my temporary old phone was kind of nice. Micah + Sky were so small! The last second of this video cracks me up.

Online shopping. Does it mean your old when you buy yourself a door mat with your birthday money? Getting paint crazy again. Dreaming up some home DIY decorating projects. Husband don't be scared.Vacation planning. Sky's 4th of July birthday around corner.

What are you thankful for/liking this week?

hey, June

2012-06-01T10:20:00.005-07:00

It's been forever since I did one of these. My life currently...

in one word or phrase: New beginnings
I'm dreaming of you: a road, camping or beach trip. I'll settle for any fun place out of the house.
music on repeat: Lovelite- Heart starts beating
{Deep in the dust
You call us out from our sleep
And we run to You
Your death awakens me to life
And my heart starts beating}
gotta write it down: "A joyful heart is good medicine and our broken bones can be re-membered when we remember to thank a good God." Ann Voskamp
lesson learned: In the 2 years I've had my shop open I had my first awful customer. She said the most hurtful things + maybe it was the timing (days before baby) but I let it wreck me. I let every negative remark completely consume my thoughts + eat me up. Then after finally giving the situation to God, He helped me to remember that I get to stay home with my boys every day and do something that I LOVE. I still have 313 other happy customers. I am still very very blessed. Have to focus on the positive. Like the quote above says, remembering all that we have to be thankful for brings back the joy.

highlight of the week: Micah is a kindergarten graduate! Hello 74 days of summer vacation. So proud of him.
picture to frame: Who says newborns can't laugh. Love this guy so much.

weekend to do list: Celebrating 7 years of being Mr. + Mrs. Franke. Another top of the list thing to be thankful for. My husband is pretty unbelievably wonderful and he and I make some pretty stinkin cute babies together.

Happy Friday friends!

nothing sweeter

2012-05-24T19:35:00.002-07:00

Madden Daniel

May 22nd, 2012

11 lb, 1 ounce

22 1/2 inches

Yes I did say 11 lbs! He's actually the largest baby ever born at the hospital we delivered at. Seriously. And yep all boys for this mama. We are so overjoyed to be home with this little guy right now. After a long, is this ever going to end pregnancy, Mr. Madden made a quick + unexpected appearance early Tuesday morning. Today is day 3 and I just can't believe how much joy this little boy has brought us. He is such a precious gift and I'm so thankful that I get to be his mommy.

meeting his family

Excited to start this new beginning with you love.

Sitting waiting wishing

2012-05-18T12:30:00.001-07:00

"Must I always be waiting, waiting on you..." this is my song on repeat right now. Yep, still waiting on baby M to arrive. Any one else have an end of pregnancy song to remind them of this miserable waiting time or is this just me? With Micah I would listen to Madonna's "time goes by so slowly" over + over while bouncing away on my exercise ball. And here we are six years later bouncing away. Sky was my little angel who came weeks early (on my favorite holiday) so I never had to get to that desperation stage. Brownie points for you later baby boy!

I dove into shop orders to keep from losing my sanity, and now I'm officially weeks ahead of schedule for the first time in about a year. It's a pretty wonderful + strange feeling. I think I've cleaned my house about 100 times, walked around the neighborhood double that, and have tried every single jumpstart labor trick. Pedicure/foot rub: check. Walking: check. Raspberry leaf tea: check. Castor oil: check. Spicy food: check. Getting busy (tmi): check. This kid (who was weighing over 9 lbs 18 days ago!) is grounded already I tell ya! I can't wait for my kids to read these little journals someday. hehe [end vent.] It's time baby!

today

2012-04-24T15:59:00.002-07:00

I promise I haven't completely disappeared. I really haven't wanted to write anything until I started to feel better. Which as of late, I'm finally starting to feel like myself again (yay!) so I thought I'd pop in for a little hello. ~~Baby #3~~ Baby M is still cooking. I cannot wait to meet this little one. My 2 year old just informed me that he's not a baby anymore so baby M is coming just in time.

(nope, not a beach ball in there!)

If I'm being completely honest, I've had a bit of the baby blues this time around. From now on I'll have so much more compassion for people suffering from anxiety/depression. Having a messy mind is such a joy killer and I'm just so thankful that I've had Jesus walking with me through some messy moments. And a very very patient + encouraging husband. I'm slowing down, taking care and even doing some growing through this experience. I feel like I'm learning a lot and I'm hoping that later on God can use even this less than fun time for me for His glory. I'm sure I'll talk more about this later on but right now I want to have some fun + play along...

Today...

My favorite letters are M + S (Micah, Stephen Skylar, Baby M)

My favorite number is 8

My favorite color is aqua

My favorite flowers are any. All flowers make me happy.

My favorite place is northern Arizona mountains

My favorite animals are giraffes

My favorite smell is rain

My favorite season is Arizona monsoon season (even w/the heat)

My favorite food is mom's enchiladas

My favorite show is f.r.i.e.n.d.s (nothing can ever beat it)

My favorite candies are red vines/skittles/starburst

My favorite movie is You've got mail (still watch it once a month)

My favorite time is when Stephen comes home from work

My favorite band right now is Gungor

My favorite drink is cherry limeade

My favorite book is (fiction) The Hunger Games trilogy

(non-fiction) Corrie Ten Boom-The Hiding Place

My favorite word is Booyah! (Sky's favorite right now)

My favorite thing is listening to my boys sing around the house + felt roses (duh!)

Hopefully next time I post it will be to show off the newest little person in our house.

(fingers crossed)

P.S. happy birthday Aunt Danielle!

making room for baby

2012-04-04T10:28:00.001-07:00

Baby's room is officially ready. This is the first time I've really decorated a nursery (Sorry Sky + Micah). I tried to be as gender neutral as possible since we weren't planning on finding out the sex. We actually ended up finding out this past weekend but we are keeping the news a surprise. After baby arrives I'll definitely be adding a few more girl or boy touches to it.

I decided to go with a hot air balloon theme after seeing this diy from Joye. Her lanterns are a little more fancy but loved the idea and tweaked it with materials I had around the house. Paper mobile from goshandgolly.

I'll be switching out this bird garland later on after the secrets out. Giraffe was a thrift find by hubby. Ikea lantern lamp + the mirror one of my spray paint crazy creations.

This alphabet print is one of my favorite etsy finds.

Hubby found this vintage rocking chair at a garage sale for $5. One day I will get up the courage to attempt to reupholster myself. Quilt was another favorite etsy find.

More tweaks to come but for now room + mommy are ready for baby.

Oh little one

2012-03-14T22:42:00.002-07:00

It's been a whirlwind, this pregnancy adventure of ours. Not as peachy as my time with your brothers, but I know that once you arrive all the bumps will fade into the past. I wish I could say only 8 or 7 more weeks until you come, but you are all around our big surprise baby. You are measuring double the size you should be weighing so its hard to say just when you are coming.

I don't know if you are a boy or girl. I don't know when you are coming and I still don't know what your name is going to be. But I do know that you are going to be outgoing + playful + happy. You jump around when mommy sings + brothers give you kisses on mommy's belly. I'm so excited to be meeting you soon and can't wait to start this new journey with you love.

looking back

2012-02-17T13:50:00.000-08:00

in one word or phrase-
Waiting for May
I'm dreaming of you- summer. sand. getaways
music on repeat- Katie Herzig + Mat Kearney+ Bon Iver
gotta write it down- {I love birds. I love that they bring glory to God just by being birds. I want to be more like that...bringing glory to God just by being who He has created me to be.} - Lauren Chandler
lesson learned- I forget how wonderful it is to slow down + take a breather. This past week + next week I'm recharging my creative juices + soaking up inspiration from the everyday things. I rush a lot. I forget to stop and see.
highlight of the week- I'm 26 weeks pregnant going on 45. I feel really uncomfortable + gross most of the time. One of my favorite things about my husband is that at night he lets me hold his hand before I fall asleep. Its a small thing, but it's one of my favorite things about him. Even though I feel like an elephant, and my skin is scorching hot + I refuse to sleep without mountains of blankets piled on me, he still will do this one little thing to make me feel like I really am his lobster.

picture to frame- you guys can really slow down this growing up thing now.
weekend to do list- It's going to be a spontaneous one. I really love having no plans.

Happy Friday!

Secret to happiness

2012-02-14T13:10:00.000-08:00

#11- Don't be normal.

Everyday is a revolution.

A chance to completely change the way we ~~normally~~ do things.

via

Every day that we are alive is a chance that we have to turn everything we know upside down and do something different. By default the norm is set to keep our minds focused on self pretty much 24/7. I really believe that if more people would make the choice to ~~quit the norm~~ and instead start their days intentionally looking for 1 person that they could help in some way, the result would be happier people all around. It doesn't matter who you are, or what you've done, you have the opportunity to bless someone else. How cool is that!

Happiness, joy + fulfillment comes when we can stop being completely consumed with ourselves + start opening our eyes to who needs love around us. There is always going to be someone. Maybe they need money for gas, a night of babysitting, encouragement, or just someone to pray for them. And how great is it that we don't have to be a super talented person to be able to do this. If you are alive + breathing then you are more than qualified.

Ditch the norm. Be intentional about being mindful of others. Watch for opportunities. Be willing to be inconvienced + step away from the busyness. While Jesus was here on earth he was constantly going places, doing things, but when someone needed help He was always willing to stop when he was interrupted. His ~~job~~ life was loving people. That should be ours too.
The happiest people are the most unselfish people. {"Don't pray + ask God to do something that you can do yourself"} -Joyce Meyer

So here is the challenge: Tell yourself this everyday...

Today I will not go to bed until I've helped/encouraged/loved someone.

Weekly Recap

2012-02-03T05:59:00.000-08:00

in one word or phrase-moment by moment
I'm dreaming of you- I've been splurging on keeping fresh roses in the house every week. They make me happy. Dreaming of a flower garden all around the house someday.
songs on repeat- obsessed with remixed old hymns.
Rend Collective Experiment-You are my vision

Ascend the Hill- Oh love that will not let me go
{So light a fire in my heart
And I'll burn for you}
gotta write it down- "Peace is not the absence of chaos, but the PRESENCE of God."
lesson learned- I haven't been a very patient person. I get frustrated quickly and all my focus floats on my negative thoughts, draining away all my peace. One of my favorite verses in Romans is "Be transformed by the renewing of your mind." "A renewed mind is Presence-focused." I need to train it to never lose sight of Him. I need more than the morning refuel, 10 minute devotional to kick start the day. I need to be in constant closeness with Him. Even when it's in the embarrassing, I just really made a mess moments. He knows. He still loves me + wants me to find Him in every situation. He gives me peace for the present so I never forget how much I need Him. "Weakness is a gift of truth, lighting desperate need of YOU."
highlight of the week- I started blogging again + my friend V made me this pretty new header. Her shop is my favorite.
picture to frame- I took this like a month ago. He always did love Chili's.
weekend to do list- garage sale. The youth decided to help support Amazima- Katie Davis ministries so we're having our first fundraiser. + cleaning out my garage in the process.

Happy Friday!

capturing life

2012-01-31T11:59:00.000-08:00

I look back on the past few months and it all kind of blurs together. Which is one reason why I'm back. I'm getting the importance of capturing memories, thoughts, life on here. To stop the blur. So let's catch up.

I'm still baking baby #3. 23 weeks down, 17 (or less) to go. This is the first belly profile shot I've taken this pregnancy. Man how things change from baby 1 to 3. Even though baby #3 has few belly pictures or notes from mommy, this is the first time I've actually set out to make a pretty nursery. So I get a plus for that right? I promise I'll write about my nursery diy projects soon.

My motto this month has been "too blessed to be stressed."January has been my biggest month in the shop. It has grown so much and it's still just me crafting away, writing deadlines + details in 3 different notebooks so I don't forget with this pregnancy brain of mine. (Yes it is a real thing) Throw in the mix wife + mommyhood, babysitting, church life, pregnancy hormones (ha!). I've been feeling like I'm doing so many things and doing them all poorly. Then I heard this little motto and I stopped whining.

It's the truth! This little business that I care so much about is prospering and my husband is more in love with Jesus than he's ever been, which as a result transforms everything about him into something even greater. I didn't think that was even possible. My children are healthy + happy + still love me and forgive me when I lose all patience and have a bad moment or two or three or four. (seriously!) They even tell me I'm pretty every day when I feel like a giant elephant. So blessed.

{My January lesson learned }Don't overwhelm yourself. There will always be something trying to get you down, whether it be hard circumstances or just your own negative thoughts. I stress out when I feel like there's a million to-do's to face alone but really that's never the case. Jesus is my constant companion. He is my peace in all circumstances. I'm forming a new habit of slowing down and finding refreshment in Him. I'm learning to be thankful always. And trust that the closer I draw near to Him the more He will transform all my weaknesses into something much more beautiful.

all is calm, all is bright

2011-12-19T21:11:00.000-08:00

Today was the first time in MONTHS that I had no where to be, no deadlines, no projects, not a thing to do and it was w o n d e r f u l. I read an entire fun reading book (Matched). I drank hot chocolate while listening to Christmas music. Took a bubble bath with my 2 year old and actually caught up on favorite blogs. It was a pretty magical day. <3

I was looking through pregnancy/baby journals for #1 & #2 and realized I haven't even bought #3's yet. I'm only in the 5th month. Almost 1/2 way through. Really need to get on that. I think I have maybe a handful of pregnancy shots so far. So here's a photo from last nights Christmas party with the baby belly in it. What do you guys think, girl or boy in there?

Do you have any funny memories that are so great that even years later you burst out laughing at just the thought of them? Well yesterday my # 2 funny moment happened and I laughed and cried, and laughed some more all day long. I couldn't go to bed last night because I was still laughing. I can't say exactly what happened (my husband would kill me) but let's just say my 5 year old waved something of extreme embarrassment for Stephen around in front of my in laws while we are sitting down for a nice afternoon lunch. I died. Our lives would be so boring without these boys.

Life just went from fast forward to normal and I'm pretty happy about it. I plan to soak in all the holiday goodness this week before things speed up again. Two more days of quiet until 2 weeks of winter break for Micahboo. Off to hide the Justin Bieber singing toothbrush before he notices. byyyyeee!

Back where I started

2011-12-06T20:00:00.000-08:00

I started writing here to keep record of memories and lessons I was learning along the way. In the middle it turned into a whole lot of other stuff and now I feel like I'm back where I started. Mostly because I don't have the creativity, time and energy to have it be a really cool full-time blog. That season has passed and it's just back to being my little modern day journal. If you are still reading after all this time then you are pretty awesome and I'm glad you stop by.

Right now I'm 15 weeks pregnant. This time around it is flying by. Which is a good and bad thing. The good because if I'm being completely honest, I really don't like the pregnant me that much. When I'm pregnant I get really insecure and emotional and I move so much slower in everything I'm doing. And good because we won't know the sex until he or she comes in May. The bad because this will probably be the last time I get to experience this and once this little one arrives there will be 3 of them! Overall no complaints just a little thinking out loud. I'm a very happy, blessed beyond what I deserve lady.

These boys are my world. Skylar is 2 and a half and last night I just sat there watching him sleep. Even still it doesn't get old. They will always be the most beautiful thing in this world to me. Except for when they are trashing the post office while I'm trying to package and ship off 10 orders. Okay maybe even then.

I just recently finished reading this book called Redeeming Love by Francine Rivers. I was always very leery about reading Christian Fiction but I gave it a try and this book really did something in me. It's a beautiful story of forgiveness and God's unrelenting love towards us. It painted a picture of it for me in a way that I can't stop thinking about it. Just read it if you haven't already. The first few chapters are tough but keep going I promise it gets good.

I'm still battling my constant struggle of being in the present. I'm always thinking ahead, running around and missing out on enjoying the now. I don't want to ever forget that it could be over any moment. I don't want to miss out on the important things. My 2012 goal is to get organized so that I can cross that off my worry list and have more time to be. I hope that makes sense. I've been typing with two boys on each side of me talking in my ear. I hope any of this makes sense. ha!

I wrote a little something last week about how I pursue my passion over here. Tomorrow is 3 years since my morning at the kitchen table that I talk about. That was a really good day.

Off to put little boys to bed and hopefully sit by the Christmas tree and read. Goodnight! Thanks for catching up with me.

Weekly Recap

2011-11-04T06:00:00.000-07:00

Sorry it's been awhile so here we go...

in one word or phrase- Let me crave all things of you.

I'm dreaming of you- Chilly weather, Christmas lights, lots of sweets, holidays!

songs on repeat- Switchfoot- Restless
Hillsong United- Forever Reign

you are good when there's nothing good in me

you are true even in my wandering

my heart will sing no other name

Jesus I'm running to your arms

gotta write it down-
"We are not made acceptable to God by who we are but by whose we are."
lesson learned- Even when I'm feeling weary in everything I do. When I'm overwhelmed and a bit scatterbrained He still wants me. He still pursues me and romances me back to Him. Nothing that I do could make Him stop the chase to bring me back. Such a faithful Lord.
highlight of the week- Finished reading Heaven is for Real and I loved it. A 4 year old boys story about his trip to Heaven and back. I started it before bed and finished it with my morning coffee. Couldn't put it down. Definitely not one to miss.
picture to frame- perfectly adorable even in moms silly diy felt masks.
weekend to do list- A long list of ~~should dos~~ but really I'm going to try and be as lazy as possible this weekend. Is that bad?

Happy weekend sweet friends!

I like you

2011-10-11T19:57:00.000-07:00

A few of my favorite things this week...

One. If you've been reading here for awhile you know that I am inspired, encouraged, love love love Katie Davis. Her book came out last week and I bought it for my husband for his birthday. (Totally a gift for myself too) Buy it! Seriously you won't regret it. Read it with some tissues though and be prepared for a huge heart change.

Two. Can't stop listening to...

{All will be made new}. Can't wait! Oh and I met JJ & Dave last weekend! Completely fan girl chased them down to say hi. Yep. It happened.

Three. I sat down and finally watched Breakfast at Tiffany's all the way through and I'm officially crazy about Audrey Hepburn. I'm thinking Holly Golightly for Halloween. She's adorable! Let's see if this pregnant lady can pull it off.

Source: None via Nicole on Pinterest

Four. Sitting in big comfy rocking chairs, in perfect fall weather, talking to a wonderful friend about happy things. Attended my first women's retreat with these sweet friends. Definitely a fan of retreats. Looking forward to going to more.

I'd love to know what are you liking this week

now for something completely different

2011-10-10T13:19:00.000-07:00

Dear little modern day diary,

I am way overdue for a catch up. So many life changes have happened in the last month alone I'm not sure where to begin.

Let's start here--->

Yep, surprise! After many discussions of let's just wait awhile longer, we found out God had a different plan. It's still early on but I'm really bad at keeping this stuff hidden, so we decided to just spill the news. Not to mention I've realized that the whole body remembering muscle mass thing works for baby bumps too. ha! It's such a different excitement by #3. I just feel such a quiet curiosity about who this little person is going to be and how much life is going to change when he or she gets here. So here we go!

Turns out that wasn't the only blessed interruption of our

plans.

One of my favorite quotes is by Sir Francis Drake that says, {"Disturb us, Lord, when we are too well pleased with ourselves. When our dreams come true because we dreamed too little. When we arrive safely because we have sailed too close to the shore. Disturb us, Lord."} That's secretly been my heart's prayer so it should be no surprise that He knows it and answers.

At the end of summer I jumped into helping out in the women's ministry at my church. I wanted to get out of my comfort zone and really stretch myself. I had never had a passion for women's ministry until recently. And the perfect opportunity came up to be used to encourage, help disciple, walk side by side with other women that I really care about. I'm right in the middle of my commitment and it has been wonderful. I'm so happy that I listened to the tug to step out.

Ok now for that something completely different part...

A couple of months ago my husband felt like God was pulling our family into a new direction and it turned out to be leading a youth ministry at a new church. Stephen has such a passion and heart for youth I know that he will be such a blessing to the teenagers God places him with. Me on the other hand, ha! I would be lying if I didn't say that this unexpected surprise didn't scare me. I may be shocked by all these new events, but God isn't. I would be crazy to run from change at this point. His plans are always better than mine. Priscilla Shirer says, "The word of the Lord is designed to reshape your purposes, putting you in a position for Him to do through you what you cannot do on your own." And I guess that's the thing I love about all of this, that even if I'm feeling uncertain about my abilities I never have to second guess His. Its the uncomfortable changes that cause me to run and hold on tighter to Him.

All in all I'm excited to see where this journey is going to lead. I'm still amazed at the fact that He wants to use me in the first place! Thanks in advance for all your prayers and support in this adventure.

Dear self

2011-09-25T12:20:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I was talking to someone about what it's going to be like when my boys are 16. To be honest I don't even like to let my mind wander that far ahead. I'm having a hard enough time with the reality that they are already 5 & 2. I've seen people write letters to their 16 year old self on here and I think it's a really cool idea. Not that I can go back and change anything now, but maybe my 16 year old children will someday read it and let it soak in.

Dear 16 year old Nicole,

Here are a few things I wish I could tell you from 26 year old me.

First, be nice to mom. Right now you think life would be so much better if she'd just leave you alone, but in a few years from now you're going to realize just how much you need her by your side, holding your hand through the really big stages of life. I know you won't believe it but you'll actually be best friends one day.

I know you think you absolutely must always be in a relationship but trust me you don't! Enjoy your friendships. Be patient. The future love of your life is around and is the last person you'd expect him to be. When its the right time your eyes will be opened to each other. In every relationship before him you've had to put so much effort in to make the pieces fit. With him it will be effortless. The second he comes everything will fall perfectly into place and trust me you'll wish you hadn't wasted so much time on every person before him. Be content with your time alone. You'll have the rest of your life to enjoy life as a pair.

Stop trying to make everyone elses style yours. Your not going to really know what you like until your 25 anyway. For now just keep it simple.

Don't stress about future career plans. You can try to make plans but make them in pencil and give God the eraser. His plans are always better. He knows us better than we do.

Be around positive people. Everyone else will eventually be left in the past.

Don't burn bridges with family. They are going to be around much longer than friends. If your going to take sides, side with them. Your not going to want to but you'll wish you had.

Always keep your eyes on the bigger picture. This life is temporary. It can end tomorrow. Remember that you were created ultimately to love Him who created you, to have a real relationship with Him and let Him shine through you. We weren't made for us. We were made for Him. Don't ever forget it!

xo,
Cole

she made me do it

2011-09-08T14:48:00.000-07:00

This past month has been a blur with all that's going on so once again I've neglected this modern day diary of mine. I promised a friend I would get back to it so here I am. Time to catch up.

My little shop had it's 1st birthday last week. Can you believe it's been a year! I'm still in shock over all that's happened. If you would have told me I'd have a page in Better Homes & Garden Holiday Crafts Magazine I would have laughed at you. But here we are on newstands now until January. I squeeled and jumped up and down when I saw it in the store. So unbelievably blessed!

I know I posted that we were going to the beach 3 weeks ago but due to a crappy little sickness that snuck up on me (2 hrs out of AZ) we had to turn around and come home. It took a few weeks to get back to normal but we finally made it to the beach this past weekend and had some much needed refresh time. Really wish we could have brought the 70 degree weather home with us though.

Did I already mention how much I really really enjoyed a vacation? ha.

Ok now to catch up on the deeper things...

Over the summer I went through a study on how the word describes a spirit-filled follower of Jesus and just how many of us go on oblivious to the supernatural power that lives inside of us. I don't have to wrestle through the rhythms of life on my own, "It's the Spirit who gives life; the flesh is no help at all." John 6:63 It's hard to give up that control and rely on the Holy Spirit to transform me inside out. Because I need him too. I really do. I want to be able to walk through hard circumstances with joy. And I know I'm not going to fulfill God's supernatural purposes without the Spirit. So I guess right now I'm still learning how to trust him to power me up to do what I can't do on my own. Learning to trust Him to be my sole source and sustainer.

A few weeks ago I committed to facilitating a women's study at church. They needed volunteers and I definitely felt the nudge. I also know that I'm not going to see the spirit at work when I'm always keeping myself in a nice comfortable spot. "It's when we get up and actually start running the play that He gets to work."

A week before the study started I had expected to be diving into the word and filling myself up before things began but that was not at all the case. I believe there is an enemy, he can't destroy me but he can throw me off track because that was what he tried very hard to do that week. That's why Jesus told us to be on guard. Today I feel like I'm still walking around with a limp but I'm able to look back at that test and see that I was never alone. He is walking with me through every season. Each test just strengthens us for the next and teaches us to rely on Him even more.

So much I want to share. I promise I'm going to try to get on here more. Bye friends!

2 posts in 1 day!! whoo hoo!