The Ultimate Coffee-Lover's Gift Guide | Gifts That Every Coffee Fanatic Will Love

This post contains affiliate links.

Do you love coffee? Do you know someone who loves coffee? Are you looking for the perfect gifts for the coffee-lover in your life? Find the perfect coffee gifts here for yourself or your coffee-lover friends.

Products I've Loved All Year Long

This post contains affiliate links. This means that should you use one of my links to buy a product, I will earn a small amount of money, at no additional cost to you. All opinions are my own.

I tend to be a "stuff" person. I have way more "stuff" than I know what to do with, and my hubby says I shouldn't bring home any more furniture, because we can't fit any more in our house. And it's entirely possible that I am unable to fit any more clothes in my closet or very large dresser, even though I wear the same 8 outfits on repeat... Ooops 😳

I think it's safe to say that typically, this isn't a good thing. I buy things I don't need to be spending money on, and when I get the itch to shop, I tend to be impulsive. I do not- I repeat: do not- recommended this habit. It can be destructive. And though I have definitely improved in this area in the last year or so, it's still a struggle. Baby steps I guess? 😅

However, I will say that one advantage to my compulsive shopping is that sometimes I discover a product that really is awesome, and that I wouldn't have tried otherwise. I guess I could say that's the one redeeming factor of such a terrible habit.

I recently read an article by Joanna Gaines in which she said that for Christmas, she and her friends have a "favorite things" party. They get together and give each other gifts, but with a twist: each person is supposed to give the item that has been their "favorite thing" over the past year to the other guests.

I loved this idea for a Christmas get together, but since Christmas is over, I thought I might as well share my favorite items from 2017 with all of you, and maybe you can enjoy them throughout 2018!

This is going to be a big, hodge-podge list. You are going to see everything from K-Cups to beauty products. My hope is to provide you with a list of awesome things to try and experience this year. You may end up finding your new favorite product.

Coffee & Tea

Favorite K-Cup (Tie):

Trader Joe's French Roast & Peet's Coffee French Roast 

Obviously, I like French Roast. But what I love about both TJ's French Roast and Peet's French Roast, is that they are both smooth, bold, and don't break the bank. I can't afford expensive coffee unless it's a special treat, but with these, I can have really delicious coffee without worrying about that!


Favorite Store Bought, Whole-Bean:
Trader Joe's French Roast

If you've never purchased coffee at TJ's, it's a wonderful experience. Why? Because you pick a canister of whole bean coffee and go grind it yourself while you are there, which means you get to breath in the fumes of that fresh, "nectar of life" while you shop. Nuff' said, right?


Favorite Locally Roasted in Charlotte, NC:
Enderly Coffee ( I love the Guatemalan blend).

Enderly Coffee is sold in multiple sites throughout Charlotte, but I discovered it at the coffee shop at my husband's seminary. It's very good, locally roasted coffee. As usual, I go for the smooth, dark roast but they have other roasts as well. If you aren't in Charlotte, you can order online.


Favorite Tea:
Tiesta Tea (Blue Berry Wildchild)

I'm much more of a coffee person than a tea person, but every once in a while I crave a really good cup of tea. It wasn't until a couple of months ago that I discovered this tea, but I am sooooo glad I did. It's delicious, it's caffeine-free, it's not over-priced, and it's made almost entirely of dried fruit.

Heathy(ish) Snack Options

Favorite Protein Option
The Good Bean Chickpea Snack

I have absolutely fallen in love with dried and flavored chickpeas as a snack. They are high in protein, pretty filling, and oh-so-very delish! I linked to my favorite flavor/brand above, but there are lots of kinds you can try!


Favorite Salty Snack
Terra Root Veggie Chips

This is another snack I've been pretty addicted to lately! Terra has several types of chips I enjoy, but their original root chips are my favorite. They are better (in my opinion), than a normal potato chip.


Favorite Sweet Snack
Noosa Apple Cinnamon Yoghurt

Yogurt can have a whole lot of sugar if you don't pick carefully- I know that. And as far as health benefits go, I could find plenty of other types of yogurt that are better for me. But man-oh-man, Noosa Yoghurt (Apple Cinnamon flavor), is just incredibly good. It honestly makes a great dessert! At least there's protein, right? 😉

Hair & Beauty

Favorite On-the-Go Product
The Honest Company Leave-In Conditioner

Most of the time, I can just use conditioner when I am in the shower, but when I'm in a rush it's hard because my hair is so thick that shampooing and conditioning takes forever. But I discovered that The Honest Company's leave in conditioner is really great even in my thick hair, and it's a bit faster than trying to wash out my normal conditioner. It also smells fantastic!

Toothpaste
Jason Peppermint

I really don't like using regular toothpaste, because there are so many chemicals. I have tried my hand at making my own, but I don't like the consistency. Jason toothpaste is natural and keeps me from having to make my own.


Favorite Mascara for Sensitive Eyes
Physicians Formula Mascara

I have super sensitive eyes and I really struggle with eye makeup. I absolutely love having mascara, eye liner, and eye shadow on, but my eyes are so sensitive that it's hard. But finding a hypoallergenic mascara is helpful, because it doesn't sting as much if it gets in my eyes. I also really love the applicator brush on PF mascaras.


Favorite Nail Polish
Wet n' Wild 1 Step Gel Polish

Wet n' Wild gel polish is the best nail polish I've ever used. I like it better than Essie or OPI, even though it's basically half the price of those brands. It stays on longer and it's brush is better. I highly recommend trying it!


There you have it, friends! I hope you end up trying and loving some of these products! In the meantime, comment below and tell me about a product that you've been loving lately! I'm always up for recommendations!

3 Reasons I'm Not Giving Up Coffee

There seems to be two trends floating around out there. Trend number one is my camp: The coffee-lovers. The one's who see the beauty and full potential of those tiny, beautiful, fragrant beans! Camp number two belongs to those who have decided that they should no longer drink coffee for one reason or another: "It's bad for you", "Caffeine is killing us all", or "I like to drink _____ coffee substitute now".

For all the people in camp numero dos: you do you, Boo! There is nothing wrong with you choosing to go coffee-free. And if you are someone who is negatively affected by caffeine, then kuddos to you for recognizing that and taking care of your body. That's awesome.

But for those of us in camp number one, we feel a certain dedication to coffee- like a family member we want to keep safe. We are appalled when someone suggests we should cut back a bit (lookin' at you, hubby 😝😇😘). And we go to bed excited that we get to have coffee when we wake up.

Some may say we have a problem, but I disagree. And since this topic is just oh-so-very important 😋, today I'll be telling you 3 reasons I'm not giving up coffee.

It Connects People of All Backgrounds

How many times have you walked into Starbucks and seen a hippie, a girl in a long skirt carrying a Bible, a lesbian, and a redneck all in Starbucks at the same time? Maybe it's different when you get out of the south, but I know I have! And I think that is great!
The fact that coffee drinkers are from all sorts of backgrounds means that we can connect. I can make friends with the lady at the table next to mine regardless of how different we may be.
The same is true for people on social media who somehow always find their way to the coffee posts. All different religions, politics, ethnicities, etc. all liking and commenting on one single post simply because it's about coffee. And that is kind of cool in my opinion!

I appreciate the opportunities I've had to experience new things and meet new people because of my coffee habits, and that in itself is a good reason not to give it up.

Food (or beverages) SHOULD Be Enjoyed

Food and beverages definitely get idolized sometimes. We make food our comfort when we are depressed. We take advantage of food and make it all about how we love to eat instead of about our nutrition. I get that, and I agree that we should not become glutenous monsters who neglect our health for the sake of copious amounts of junk food.

But I also believe that food and drinks were meant to be enjoyed. That's not the point of them, but I still believe that God gave us good tasting food (and the minds to create other good tasting food) for a reason.

I'm not on any diet, and I am still having a hard time with self-control, but I do think that people who do the 80/20 rule (80% healthy and in line with their diet, 20% not) are on the right track. And 9 times out of 10, coffee would end up being my 20%. I can give up a whole lot of other stuff that needs to leave my diet, without needing to feel guilty about that 2nd (or 3rd, or 4th) cup of coffee.
There are tons of Bible verses that point to the deliciousness of food and drinks (in a positive manner), and none of the verses that address gluttony give any indication that it's wrong to enjoy food. And seeing that God gives us things all the time that are not necessary but are for our enjoyment, I'd say that God doesn't mind food and drinks being in that category either.

I Just Don't Want To

Look, I just really like coffee. I never want it to be too high a priority in my life and the times that that has happened, I've tried to correct it. But guess what- as long as I am keeping everything in right balance, taking care of myself, and taking care of my health, there's no law that says I cannot be a little, tiny bit obsessed with coffee. Capisce?

Guess what, friends! Even if you aren't a coffee-drinker (whatever the reason), we are so blessed to have things that we enjoy. Whether it's Crossfit, bacon and waffles, Netflix, journaling, or fill-in-the-blank, we all have that thing that we just can't get enough of. Enjoy it. Don't idolize it, obsess over it, or get your priorities all wonky, but seriously, enjoy it. I'm certainly going to keep on enjoying my butt-sized coffee!

Overcoming the Turmoil in Our World: Coffee Sips and Lovely Links

Between the women's march, "vagina hats", talks of Trump, Obama, abortions, and all the way down to whether or not it's okay to whip out a boobie in the middle of Target to breastfeed- the media has blown up in the past few days (and even the past year or so).

There's so much going on in the world that has nothing to do with feminism or women's rights, but right now, that's what is on my mind. And I have lots of opinions about each one of these things, but this blog is not the place where I share most of those.

I want to encourage you all to become better versions of yourselves, and I fear that if I opened up the floodgates of politics and sharp opinions, I would sorely regret it. So as tempting as it is for me to vent, rant, and spew all of my thoughts out onto this page, I'll refrain.

But you know what I will do? I'll tell you what I am thankful for.

I'm thankful for:

-The freedom to believe what I want

-The freedom to live by what I believe

-Rights and privileges that other countries do not offer

-Friends that love and respect me even when we don't agree

-A laid-back hubby who reminds me to calm down

-This blog

-Fun music that cheers me up when I am stressed

-Coffee...Lots and lots of coffee

-More Coffee

-Did I mention coffee?

Obviously, I am thankful for so much more than that, but this list was meant to prove a point: We can choose to focus on the things that make us crazy- that make us want to hide under a rock- or we can be thankful for the things we are blessed with.

Being thankful doesn't erase the issues of life, or the turmoil in our world, but it does re-frame our minds and hearts and helps us be more in tune with the blessings we have.


And since TPT's Coffee Sips and Lovely Links segments are designed to provide you with helpful links on specific issues, if you need some help overcoming the turmoil in our culture and in the world, here are a few helpful, encouraging links!

My husband started a blog recently and he has some great thoughts on how to overcome the outrage culture we are seeing around us. It's his first ever blog post, so you should definitely check it out. He's kinda cool 😉

Or how about this 2.5 minute interview with John Piper about the fact that God will supply ALL of our needs?

I also LOVE Chip Ingram and am always blessed by his messages. Honestly, I haven't listened to this one but I felt that this would be appropriate to this post (based on the title). I've never heard a Chip Ingram sermon that didn't encourage me: How to Experience Peace in the Midst of Uncertain Times.

I hope you come away from this post (and the lovely links I left for you) extremely encouraged. Be thankful, be humble, and walk in the truth of Jesus and his love.

If You Could Make Your Own Non-Profit (Mug-spiration Monday)

This past weekend, my mama and I had a long-overdue date. There was an antique fair in Cowpens, so I headed over there first. The antique fair was really cute and if I had more money and room in my house, I could have easily walked away with several awesome furniture pieces!

But where we went after the antique fair was the most unique and intriguing part of the day. I've never seen anything quite like it and it got me thinking.

Coffee Everything! (Favorite Things Friday)

*This post contains affiliate links*

Happy Friday! The sun is finally peeking out from behind the clouds and the air feels springy- my heart is doing a happy dance. It's the little things, right?!

Last year, I did a segment called Favorite Things Friday, where I did a round-up of all sorts of things- quotes, cool products, my favorite bloggers, etc. I took a break from those posts, but have decided to revamp a little bit and see what you guys think! So after reading this post, I'd love some feedback in the comment section.

All Things Coffee

This week, I want to talk about coffee! You know, that sweet nectar of life that brings joy, alertness, and bliss to taste-buds? Yes, that's the one!

Everyone picks on me for my coffee habits. They say, "why don't you just drink soda or tea instead?"- B L A S P H E M Y ! It's not all about the caffeine, though that helps. Coffee is a ritual, a tradition that ushers in each day. When I have time to sit quietly, drinking my coffee, and blogging, things go much more smoothly. 

So what am I loving right now that pertains to coffee? Here's a peek!

1.) D.I.Y Coffee Bar!

Life Made Lovely

I've wanted a coffee bar in my home for a while, but just don't have the right place for it right now. I've seen a lot of cute one's out there, but I love the way this one is done- the white brick, the teal cabinet, the eclectic jars and mugs, and a microwave, just in case you need to heat your coffee a little more! Perfect-o, if you ask me!

2.) Cute Mugs

Find them here!

I love coffee mugs! My hubby says I have "too many", and I say you can never have too many mugs! And personally, almost every time I go to Target, I find another mug or coffee-related item that I "need". Can anyone else relate?

3.) Flavored Coffee

Sometimes, people get a little snobby about their coffee. It has to be bold, smooth, and pure. Well, all those things are wonderfully delicious, but I can also fully get on board with flavored-coffee-goodness.

My favorite at the moment is Mocha- Coconut K-cups (made by The Donut Shop brand), and then I add some hazelnut creamer. It takes like a chocolate-y, tropical paradise. I discovered this combo over the summer, and I seriously cannot quit. Trust me, if you haven't already, give it a try. 

I also really love the Cinnabon K-cups, but who wouldn't?! I do try to stay away from those though, since it is light roast coffee (which means they have more caffeine).

4.) Homemade Coffee and Coffee Creamer Recipe Roundup

We all love Pinterest, right? And one of my favorite things to see on Pinterest is a good coffee drink recipe. So here are a few that look pretty dang amazing to me!

Refreshing Iced Coffee

Iced Caramel Mocha

Black Coffee Ice Cream

Nutella Hazelnut Coffee

White Chocolate Latte

So what did you think of the new Favorite Things Friday? Do you love coffee as much as I do? What is your favorite way to drink it? Comment below.

Mug-spiration Monday *Vol. 24*

“I'd rather take coffee than compliments just now.” 

 -Louisa May Alcott, Little Women

It's another Monday morning, with coffee in hand. It's still black outside but I know the hustle and bustle of cars on my busy road will start up shortly. I've had five days off from work, but it's time to go back and take care of cute little baby E. You'd think I'd be rested, but road-trips and holiday festivities make for a fun, yet exhausting time off. So yes, dear Miss Alcott got it right- I'll take the coffee.

Thankfully though, I will have a few more days off for New Years, and I have nothing pressing to do.

It's interesting to me, how the creeping up of the new year brings about such an excitement in my heart. It's just a new date on the calendar really, and yet somehow, I have all these new dreams and goals springing up in my heart.
Lot's of things to plan, cultivate, and grow. I'm extremely excited to share some of these things as time goes on, but not quite yet. My brain hasn't fully developed the thoughts and plans that my dreams need.

But as I think about these new goals that the new year's approaching has stirred up, I am realizing something: we need to always live as though it's a new year!

Why is it that we treat the 1st of January as such a fresh start, but we can't seem to think of Mondays in the same way? Why can't we start our weeks like we start our new years- with new plans, new dreams, and new attitudes?

It's easy to search through Pinterest at the end of December in order to find "5 Easy Steps to __________". It's an entirely different thing to decide every single week to make the most of our time and to set and accomplish real, attainable goals.

I want to decide today to make every week a fresh start. I want Mondays to be as exciting as January 1st. I want my Fridays to feel accomplished, because I started my week in a way that set me up for success in the days that followed.

What about you? Would you like to join me?

Mug-spiration Monday *Vol. 21*

Oh boy! Somehow I have to figure out how to get back in the groove of things- and I have to figure it out today... anyone else feeling the pressure?
It's usually like that coming off of a holiday: the food coma is still lingering since there were 500 pounds of leftovers, we probably didn't rest as much as we should have, and we are just feeling plain lazy.

Despite the struggle (it's so real!), I am extremely thankful for Thanksgiving with my wonderful inlaws and their extended family. We enjoyed two and a half days with them and we were very glad we had that time. We mostly just relaxed, ate, and Thursday evening we watched "It's a Wonderful Life". The only thing that went wrong was that I was in a lot of pain in my back and hips, but I don't really know what was going on there *sigh*

When we got back Friday evening, Taylor and I put up the Christmas tree, decorated the mantle, and set up our little nativity sets.
I love, love, love this time of year!

I spent Saturday making candles and baking cookies. What could be better? Oh yeah, I was listening to Christmas music while I did it- #lifeiscomplete.

I hope everyone had as great of a week/ weekend as I did. But whether you did or not, remember that you are loved more than you ever dreamed or imagined. Remember that Monday's (and all of the days) don't have to be bland or difficult. Choose to be thankful and joyful and determined all day. Choose to make it a great day.

Mug-spiration Monday *Vol. 19* Hodgepodge

Happy Monday, all! It is actually chilly and I am so excited that I can wear a hoodie without fear of roasting by mid-day! Woot woot!

There's a lot going on in the world right now. Paris is the issue that stands out the most, but there are so many others too. Chandler Larsen of Life as Larson had an excellent blog post about all that's going on in the world right now (read it here). It is important to actually be aware of all that is happening and to figure out ways to help. I may not be able to do anything for Paris, but I can find things in my own area to help with. We have a duty to know what is going on. Living in our own little bubble should not be an option. But, with that being said, we also have a duty to remain thankful and optimistic in all circumstances. It does no one any good to just be a blob of fear and sadness all the time. Don't sit around in self-pity wishing for good- be the good.

I'd like to remind each one of you that God has got this in His hands. God being in control does not mean a lack of evil in the world. As long as sin is around, terrible things will continue to happen. But God still holds us, and still has a plan. It isn't always easy to see in the face of tragedy, but He still holds us and still loves us.

I'd also like to encourage each one of you today that you are worth more than you think. You have such great worth, but it has nothing to do with anything you do. You have many gifts and talents- each one of us does- but even if all of that was stripped away, you would still be worth everything in God's eyes. He loves you.

Carry that with you today as you brave another new week. Despite all of the horrific things going on in the world, He is still good. Despite your own personal struggles, He is still with you. Even if you feel worthless, you are worth everything to God. And on a smaller (but still very real) note, even your meek and meager week may be filled with a good bit of dread. Regardless of what you are going through- whether you are fearing the Paris attacks, or just fearing how to pay rent next week- remember that you are loved and that the week will end, but God's goodness is eternal. I am so thankful that it isn't the other way around!

I hope that this bit of knowledge makes this Monday (and everyday) a whole lot sweeter. There's a lot that goes on in a week- some good, some bad- and we can choose to dwell on the tough stuff, or we can pull it together and reflect on the good. Sure, there are bad parts of the day, but there are always reasons to be thankful, and there is always something to smile about.

Think back on your week. What was the best part? Was there anything that stood out as worthwhile, even though it was difficult? What are you enjoying at the moment?


I definitely had some good moments!


Weekend Recap!
This weekend, I spent Saturday at the farm with my mom, bro, and their new Great Pyrenees puppy, Blaze. Blaze is the sweetest little guy. He is so mellow and he just follows everybody around on the farm and sits there when they stop in one area. He is a heart-melter!

On Sunday, Taylor and I went to church with our friend, Jeff. We are still trying to find the right church and the hunt has seemed to take forever.

Holiday Excitement!
I am really excited about Thanksgiving, you guys! It'll be so nice for me and Taylor both to be off for a couple of days, and we get to go see his side of the family. It'll be a really nice visit and a good little break. I love the little girl I take care of, but sometimes I just want my hubby :)

And personally, I think my November has been a great success so far, simply because I have already watched six Christmas movies, listened to Michael Buble's Christmas CD about three times, and have had my Pandora Christmas station set for about two weeks. Yep, you are very welcome ;)

Coloring Fun!
I have also really been enjoying my new adult coloring book lately. I don't color in it super often, but I will get it out every once in a while and it is really fun. I didn't know adult coloring books existed until about a month ago. I am thinking it would make a great gift to color a page and then frame it. I think a lot of people would really enjoy that.


I know that coloring books, puppies, and Christmas movies don't matter in the grand scheme of things, but I really do believe in seeing the good. We should never hide behind those things, but we should find joy in them and be thankful, despite any hardships that come.

Happy Monday! Stay strong!


What are you thankful for and taking joy in today?

Mug-spiration Monday *Vol. 17* and a Battle Against Sand

Happy Monday and happy November. I am not going to lie, I'm kind of bummed that October is over, but I am thankful for this beautiful weather that keeps coming at us here in North Carolina. It really has been gorgeous!

Unfortunately, I've really had a hard time with my energy level lately. I am so tired and very unmotivated. My Mondays- actually everyday- are spent wanting to lay around under a blanket while doing nothing. Fortunately, I have an adorable 11-month-old that I nanny that forces me to function as a human being. But the struggle is definitely real. I would love to tell you that today I am "all perky and crap", and I would love to tell you that you should be as perky as me and to "embrace this beautiful Monday", but I'm pretty sure that is called lying ;) The tireds are winning today so I cannot give much advice. However, what I can give you is a very entertaining story about me against a bag of sand... intrigued yet? ;)

Farm girls versus the 1,100 pound bag of sand

Yes, you read it correctly- 1,100 pounds. You see, I visited my Mom and Nana at the farm on Saturday, and my mom went to Lowes to buy sand for a project of some sort. When she was at the store, there were guys to load it onto the back of her truck, but when she got it home, it was just us vs. a giant bag of warrior sand. First, we tried pulling it together. The sand didn't budge- like at all...I wish someone had been filming us, because it had to be the most ridiculous sight. Next, we tied a rope to the ginormous bag, attached the rope to the ATV, and started pulling. The bag moved a little, but then started tearing. We did eventually get the bag of sand off of the truck, but only after much laughter, the threat of peeing our pants from said laughter, and the bag of sand tearing, opening, and falling upside down out of the truck.

#forthewin!

We both look pretty rough. Who needs beauty shots? :p

I love the farm :)

The dirt...post fight.

I may not be able to give you much Monday advice today, but I definitely have given you reason to have a good laugh. So go out into the world today, knowing that you can conquer any bag of dirt you face! And just in case that isn't the best advice you've ever heard (though I'm sure it is), here are a few more inspirations for your day!

Mug-spiration Monday Inspirations

Job Inspiration- Be crazy enough.

Spiritual Inspiration- I need this every single day.

Health Inspiration- Enjoy it!


I hope you have a wonderful Monday in the Lord :)

Follow me on social media

* Bloglovin' * Facebook * Twitter * Instagram * Pinterest *

Mug-spiration Monday *Volume 14*

Good morning (or afternoon, or evening, depending on where you are)! How are you today? I hope well! I'm sitting here drinking pumpkin coffee as I type. If you haven't had coffee yet, then go get it! Coffee is important! ;)

This weekend was wonderful. We had some Waynesville friends come spend the weekend with us, which was so nice! We haven't had a lot of human interaction outside of work and school since we moved to Charlotte, so having friends over was needed.

But one thing is for sure: I'm exhausted. I don't feel like doing anything. The past few nights I've had really stressful dreams and I've woken up feeling just as tired as I did the night before.

On days like these, we really do just have to push ahead. We have jobs to do, lives to impact, and talents to share. I personally have a baby to take care of while her parents are at work. I make a difference by showing her love and helping her develop as a little human. And whatever you do for a living is important too. You have something to give to the world, but to share it, you have to get up and get going.

It's hard on days like these, but remember why you get up. I get up because I want to share Christ with the world. That makes it a whole lot easier!

But if you still  need a little boost, here are a few "mug-spirations" for your day :)

Monday Inspirations

Spiritual Inspiration- My mom just sent me this. I haven't read it yet, but it sounds like a good, needed post :)

Work Inspiration- If you work hard now, you will be making things a reality while others are still dreaming.

Creative Inspiration- Creative people are...

Hopefully, you are feeling a bit more motivated now. Have a good day, dear friends. Keep moving, even when you don't feel like it!

Mug-spiration Monday *Volume 8*

Happy Monday! Got your coffee? Good :)

It's been so busy. Things are finally settling down- sort of. There are still plenty of boxes to unpack, still a job to find, and yesterday the church-hunt began. But that is all part of the adventure. Yep, even unpacking those boxes. Because adventure isn't just hiking Mt. Everest, or spending all day exploring. Adventure is also cleaning a new house with the love of your life, no makeup on, debating about where to put the couch, only to realize that there is only one way it will fit, so it doesn't matter ;)

Adventure is everywhere. Inspiration is everywhere. And the ability to be positive and embrace each day is at your fingertips. So whether your Monday holds lots of boxes left to tackle, a glorious day off, or inventory at your retail job, you still have the ability to enjoy the day; to make this day count.

Still need some extra convincing? Here are a few extra mug-spirations for you :)

Spiritual Inspiration- I couldn't decide which John Piper quote... this one, this one, or this one? ;)

Health Inspiration- this just made me laugh.

Career Inspiration- Work hard if it means anything to you.

Creative Inspiration- You'll know it when you find it.

Happy Monday, everyone! Got anything exciting coming up this week? Tell me about it in the comment section :)





Linking up with Cornerstone Confessions on Titus 2 Tuesdays

Mug-spiration Monday *Vol. 7*

Whew! If ever I needed to be reminded of my own Monday Mantra, it's today, yesterday, and all this week!

A friend, my mother and father-in-law, and I got quite a bit of packing done this weekend, but there's still a lot to go... I seriously have way too much stuff! So, this week, I work 9 hours a day, then come home and pack every night. Wednesday there won't be any packing because we are having our last Bible study. Then, Friday, as soon as I get off of work, I'll come home to load up the moving truck. Saturday morning we will leave for Charlotte. We will unpack the truck with the help of some wonderful friends, and then we will head back to Waynesville for a wedding. Then, the next morning, we will leave for a six hour drive to the beach so we can attend my Nana's 70th birthday party. Honestly, I am so overwhelmed I cannot see straight.

But, as I have said before, when we feel overwhelmed, stressed, or just plain grumpy, we must remember what we are thankful for!

1. God has provided an adorable house that meets all our needs in Charlotte.

2. Taylor has all his school books and they didn't cost that much.

3. Our church, family, and friends have all rallied behind us and helped us with this move in every way they have been able.

4. My husband and I get to embark on this adventure together. What a blessing!


There are about a ba-jillion other things to be thankful for, but those stick out to me at the moment. And when I think about those things, it's a little harder to stay grumpy and freak out. It'll all be ok.  I'll just take one day at a time. Or, better yet, as Kimmy Schmidt puts it:

You can handle anything for 10 seconds. So when you are doing something tough, just count to ten. Then start with a new ten seconds, until you've completed your task (paraphrased, The Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt).

So, without further ado, here are a few mug-spirational posts to get your Monday off to a fantastic start:


Health Inspiration: These look fantastic!

Spiritual Inspiration: Greater Joy.

Creative Inspiration: You can never use it up.

Work Inspiration: Work hard, succeed big!

Are you motivated for the day? Or are you struggling? Find joy in the Lord if you are His child. What can you do differently to change your state of mind?

Mug-spiration Monday *Vol. 6*

Woot Woot! It's Monday!
I am so excited for today: the day I get to see the house that Taylor found for us in Charlotte! Sure, we are only renting, but it feels so stinkin' amazing to finally have something in place! I'm sitting on the outside, but I am bouncing off the walls on the inside!

Obviously, today is special for me and Taylor. But even when there's nothing special going on, Mondays can be whatever you want them to be. You can choose to get up, get dressed, start the day with a positive attitude, and get a lot accomplished, or you can choose to drag your feet as you walk into work, figuratively shaking your fists at Monday every time something happens that you don't particularly like. The choice is yours.

So whether you've got something amazing happening today, or you are simply going into work as always, decide that today has potential. Decide that you will achieve goals, work hard, and have a positive attitude that will inevitably rub off on your co-workers. Ask God to help you with this. What is hard for us is quite easy for God.

Here are a few inspirations for your day!

Work Inspiration- Success is not an accident.
Health Inspiration- Even when you don't feel like it....
Creative Inspiration- Lose fear.
Spiritual Inspiration- Peace.


Have a blessed Jesus day, beautiful people. You are loved far beyond what you can possibly imagine. Christ took every bit of punishment for us on the cross. He "killed" death. Embrace it, believe it, and be thankful for it on this Mug-spirational Monday, and every day of your life.

House Hunting In Charlotte

House-hunting in Charlotte, NC takes a lot out of a girl. Thank God for His trust-worthiness and for an awesome hubby, family, friends, and coffee too!

Last Wednesday, Taylor and I headed off to stay with my mom at my family's new farm just outside of North Carolina. Staying with her was great. We were able to visit with her in the evenings and go look at houses in Charlotte during the day.

Thursday was the first time I had ever really seen Charlotte. And I have to admit, it was terrifying! I to me, downtown Asheville is bog enough, but downtown Charlotte makes Asheville look like a toy!

We viewed a house and an apartment that morning, to no avail. One was ridiculously expensive and one was not in a very good area (and wasn't a very good property). We at lunch at Bad Daddy's Burger Bar in the Dillsworth area. That burger was so, so good! It had fried bacon on it!? Who does that???

Any-who... after lunch we continued our apartment and house hunt, which didn't result in much success. We did, however, get to visit my friend Stephanie and her mom, who I had not seen since our wedding. That was a plus :)

The next day was much of the same as far as housing goes, but we were able to finally tour Taylor's school, which was a huge blessing. One of the head honchos, a very nice man, took us out to lunch. We also met Beth, a super-sweet woman around our age who came to RTS from Australia! So cool! She told me all about the women's ministries the school has that reaches out to and builds community among the female students and wives of male students (that's me!). I am very excited about that. I am going to have a hard time leaving all of our loved ones in the mountains, so establishing a community in Charlotte is really important to me.

We viewed another house after touring the school, but that one wasn't the right fit for us either. Thankfully, that afternoon, Taylor took me to Smelly Cat Coffee, in the NoDa district of Charlotte.

That was on my list of things to do in Charlotte, and I already marked that one off! Woot-woot! A let me tell you, guys, that was one of the best frappe's I've ever had! Go try it. Now. ;)

After visit Steph and her fiance' again, we headed back to spend the evening with my mom. I really enjoyed having time with her again. I am thankful for any chance at get with her, but I never feel like it's enough. I cannot wait to live closer to each other!

Taylor and I headed back home the next morning. We had a good trip with mama and with each other, but we went away feeling very discouraged about the housing situation.



But regardless of our frustration, regardless of the fact that we want to know where we are living and yet we have no clue, we absolutely know that God will provide. We know He will lead us where to go; we just have to trust Him. And I am thankful for that. I am thankful that my impatience doesn't negate His faithfulness. My grumpiness doesn't take away His provision, and my over-planning doesn't freak Him out.

Mug-spiration Monday *Vol. 3*

Happy Monday, friends! I have to tell you, I really am impressed with the attitude I now have surrounding Mondays! Last night, I was tired and stressed, and I was anticipating needing an extra cup of coffee (or 10) this morning. But to my surprise, I feel good. Sure, I may be a little stressed, but I am happy about the day and ready to take it on with vigor. Can I get a "woot, woot!"?

What is on your Monday agenda? Do you feel over-whelmed by the week ahead? Do you fear you don't have enough motivation or creative juices flowing to get that project done? Or are you looking for a job and feel discouraged that nothing is coming? Take heart, dear friend. Talk to God. Call on Him and trust Him. Is it easy? Not for us mere humans. But He is worthy of our full trust and He will take care of us.

So did you talk to Him? Good.

Now, grab a cup of coffee and find even more "mug-spiration" from the list below.

Mug-spiration Monday

Health Inspiration- This looks absolutely fantastic.

Spiritual Inspiration-  God is always with us.

Work Inspiration- Keep your goals. Have courage.

Creative Inspiration- Try using this creative checklist.



I hope you feel a little more motivated for your Monday (and beyond). Seek God in all things, drink coffee at all times (ok, maybe there's a balance there), and find joy in every day!

What does your Monday hold this week? How will you keep a positive attitude?

Linked-up with

Barb at Life in Balance

Five Things To Do in Charlotte

As I recently announced, Taylor and I plan to move to Charlotte in August for him to begin his seminary adventure. Though there is a lot we have to leave behind (which is difficult), we are also very excited for all that God has planned for us.

As I have been thinking about all of our transitions, I've also thought about all the fun things I want to do when we get there. The list goes on much further than this, but I have put together a small collection of things I'm excited to try.

Check it out!

Coffee

Visit Smelly Cat coffee shop- If any of you have seen the show Friends, you will understand the name of this shop. Even though I love the show, I stopped watching it because I felt it was affecting me negatively. But with that said, I still think it is super funny and I happen to adore Phoebe, who came up with "Smelly Cat". The fact that they named their coffee shop after this part of the show is actually pretty clever, and I definitely feel like there would be a hipster-vibe going on at this particular cafe. Once we get settled in, this is one of the first places I'd like to go. I mean, come on- it's coffee!


Food

Luna's Kitchen- After reading a review about Luna's Kitchen by Taralynn McNitt- author of Simply Taralynn and creator of Young in Charlotte- I definitely need to try this place. Although the restaurant is mostly plant-based (and I am a carnivore), it looks fresh and delicious. The first day I am craving a salad in Charlotte, I am heading to Luna's Kitchen. The question is, will I be successful in dragging my husband there?

Vapiano's Italian restaurant- This was also highly recommended by Taralynn. It looks expensive to me, so we'd have to save it for a special occasion, but this place definitely makes the list. Look how yummy their food looks!


Activities

Ride my Bike!!!!- I feel like Charlotte is calling to my inner-self, saying             "Welcome back to flat-land, Kristin. Pump up those bike tires. It's time to ride". Though I sound a little nutty when I put it that way, I am seriously excited about riding my bike. Hopefully, we will be in a neighborhood that is safe to ride around in, because I need to ride. Don't get me wrong- I love the mountains- but they aren't exactly conducive to riding my cute, little, classic bike around town, ya know?


Find a Church- Taylor and I are so blessed by Providence Church (our current church home). I have never been a part of a more wonderful church than Providence. We love the preaching, the people, and the genuine love that is felt there. Leaving our church behind is going to be tough. But thankfully, we already have several people in Charlotte giving us advice about different churches to try. It seems like there will be some good ones to visit.

Though there are plenty of other things I want to do in Charlotte- like going to festivals and exploring the different parts of the city- and many things I have to do- like finding a job- the list above is just a glimpse into that. This is an exciting time in mine and my husband's life, and I want us to embrace it. Sure, we are sad to leave his family, our church, our friends, his teaching job, the Bible study we host and the gorgeous mountains behind, but we are expectantly waiting to see what's next. It's adventure time!

Mug-spiration Monday *Vol 1*

Every Monday, we wake up, groggy and sometimes grumpy, trudging to the coffee pot. We turn it on, willing it with all we've got to brew that powerful nectar-of-life just a little bit faster. This is my every morning, but it is particularly representative of my Mondays.

But as much as I like coffee, I am learning that there's more to Mondays than a good cup of joe (shocker! I know!).

Monday's are fresh starts. A new week means new opportunities to accomplish goals, start new projects, and finish old ones. Mondays mean rejuvenation from the weekend (hopefully), and refreshed energy to help us through.

Have you ever thought of Mondays like this? Have you ever seen them as an exciting new chapter, instead of as a nuisance?

I started seeing Mondays more positively when I started staying home and blogging. I came to love Mondays because it meant a new blogging week with fresh perspective. And now that I am starting a summer nanny job, I want to continue to look forward to and embrace Mondays. I want them to stay sweet to me.

But how can we achieve this when Sunday wasn't a rest day, when we just need that one more hour of sleep, or when- tragedy of all tragedies- the coffee pot stops working?

Well, first of all, look to Jesus. I am terrible about getting grumpy far before I call on God and put life's little "problems" into perspective.

Jesus says, "Come to me, all you who are weary and heavy-laden, and I will give you rest" (Matthew 11:28). This means that when we just feel like we need more weekend, we can call on Jesus. Sure, it's not a huge problem, and yes, their are starving children in (insert third-world country here), but God still cares about our exhaustion, our lack of motivation and creativity, and maybe even our frustration over our bum coffee pot.

After going to Jesus, and after getting that nice, warm mug of sweet-goodness, Spend your Monday morning looking for inspiration. Find something that motivates you to work hard, something that motivates you to focus on God, something that inspires you to take care of your body, and something that makes you feel creative. Doing this is sure to create inspiration that wasn't there before. And that is what Mug-spiration Mondays are all about!

I am going to try to make this my Monday morning habit. Would you like to join me?

• Work motivation in the form of an Oprah Quote (which surprised me, haha)
• Spiritual Motivation- 1 & 2, because I couldn't decide :)
• Health motivation- I am focusing on my Get it Together Initiative!
• Creative Inspiration from this blog post :)

Happy Monday, everyone! Use it to your advantage! What steps will you take to make that happen?

Linked-up with:

Cornerstone Confession's Titus 2 Tuesdays