August Goals & Currently Loving

Happy August, my friend! I hope as you read this post you are filled with fun memories from July and exciting plans for the upcoming month. If July was rough, I hope you can put that behind you and enjoy August. And if August is going to hold a lot of challenges, I hope you can still push ahead, do your best, and hold on to joy.

July was a tough one for me. Not because it was bad, but because it was far busier than I am used to. I have had a hard time adjusting and I haven't done nearly as much as I had hoped with my blog this month. But, I am thankful that it was busy instead of bad, and that after one more moth of craziness, there is a potential for things to calm down a bit.

So today, I figured it was time I updated you on how I did with my July goals, and share my August goals and things I have been loving lately. Grab a nice big cup of joe (or beverage of preference), sit back, and enjoy!

July Update

Drink At Least 64oz. of Water Every Day

FAIL

Not gonna lie- this really didn't even cross my mind. I did drink a decent amount of water, but I know I didn't hit my goal.

Walk At Least 6 Miles Per Week

FAIL- But not exactly...
I did not hit my 6 miles/week goal. I ended up doing between 2-3 miles per week. However, the reason for this was because the heat would have been irresponsible to have Mr. T out in. So in addition to the 2-3 miles, we've been going swimming at least once per week (usually more).

Finish Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire

FAIL
I haven't touched the book...

Blogging & Business

Increase All Stats

YES! PASS!I hit my Twitter, Facebook, and Email Newletter goals (and surpassed them).
I fell short on my Instagram, Pinterest, and page view goals (but still saw growth in all of them). However, even though I didn't hit my Pinterest follower goals, I have been getting more page views because of Pinterest than usual and that is at least partially due to my new, long pins! Yay for successes!

Update More Pins

PASS

Secure Another Virtual Assistant Client

FAIL-ish

I haven't landed another client, but I do have someone who seems interested.

Be Consistent

Meh. FAIL.

Goals For August

Grow my Blog Stats

Again, I have some numbers I want to hit, but consistent growth is my main focus.

Secure One Virtual Assistant Client

I really, really want to accomplish this so I have a better chance of working from home starting in September.

Contact One Brand For a Collab

I haven't been super brave about this yet, but this month I want to send my media kit to a brand I would like to work with and pitch to them.

Continue My Workouts with Mr. T

3 miles of walking and 2 trips to the pool per week is working out well.

What I'm Currently Loving

Lipsense

I have more coming on this in the future, but I finally tried Lipsense and I am a fan. Want to know more? Join my friend Summer's Facebook page: The Darling Lip Studio.

Hills and Valleys

One of my best friends introduced me to the song Hills and Valleys by Tauren Wells and I love it so much. If you haven't heard it but could use some encouragement, you should definitely check it out!

Pool Time

I mentioned that Mr. T and I have been going to the pool and it has been so nice to have a place to swim. I love it and it makes it feel way more like a true Summer.

Parks and Rec

Taylor and I have been re-watching Parks and Rec on Netflix and between Ron Swanson and Andy Dwyre, we just can't stop laughing.

Tips for Full-time and Side Hustle via Elle & Company

I read "How to Balance a Full-Time Job and a Side-Hustle" by Elle & Company  today and it is so helpful! If you are trying to manage a day-job and a side-hustle like me, this is a great resource!

Happy August, friends! What do you have coming up this August?

What I'm Loving Lately (Coffee Sips and Lovely Links)

It's somehow already Friday again, peculiar ones! How? How does that happen?
Day by day we eat, work, sleep, and repeat and time goes by so stinkin' quickly. Because of #adulting, this is necessary to a certain degree, but we also have to take the time to relax, smell the roses, drink the coffee, and do the fun things.

I only work outside of my home Monday-Wednesday right now, and I am still on the hunt for another job. I've been really stressed about that lately, and it has been critical for me to make sure I am taking at least a little bit of time for myself. When I don't, I end up with a horrible migraine and high blood pressure. No bueno.

I enjoy a lot of different things, but right now my "me time" is either reading through the Harry Potter books, singing to Pentatonix as loudly as I can, playing Harvest Moon for Wii, taking Epsom salt baths, and just sitting and watching Netflix with the hubby.

Another way you can relax is by getting cozy, sipping coffee, and reading really good, helpful blog posts. Sure, I do that all the time anyway, but it's different when you have been wanting to catch up on your favorites.

So today, I am sharing a hodge-podge of posts that are only connected by the fact that I enjoyed them. My hope is that you will too.
So grab your favorite beverage (you already know what I'm having!), settle in your most comfy of chairs, and enjoy these posts that I've been loving.

DIY Industrial Shelves by Love Doing Life
If a project reminds me of Chip and Joanna Gaines, it's a winner for sure! And that's exactly what happened with these industrial shelves that Elizabeth of Love Doing Life put in her home. It's a great project!

8 Productivity Hacks to Totally Transform Your Day by Coming Up Roses
Anytime Erica of CUR posts about productivity or blogging I am interested in what she has to say. She is an absolute rock star when it comes to those topics!

Why I'm Still Boycotting Target (1 Year Later) by Small Town Soul
Clearly, this one will be controversial. Lots of awesome people have varying opinions on this, but I just loved that Abbey was brave enough to share this post articulately. I don't necessarily agree with every single thing she says, but I fully know where she is coming from and I support her bravery. This is NOT a popular opinion and I've been in her shoes.

Why I Want To Be Worth My Weight In Salt by Pretty Simple Ideas
Friends, this is my absolute favorite post by Sarah of PSI. The Bible says that we should be the salt of the earth, and Sarah does an awesome job of explaining what that means and why it's so important. Check it out!

DIY Macrame Herb Garden From Recycled Bottles by Craftivity Designs
This is a super cute project that Lora of CD created using plastic bottles from tea. I really want to make one!


Which of these links is your favorite? Comment below.

Currently Loving: My current obsessions and life-happenings

Hi there, my fellow peculiar treasures! I cannot believe it is already April! This year is flying by and I am learning that life really does go by faster the older I get. I used to hear other people say that when I was a kid and didn't fully understand, but now I totally get it!

I also feel like it's been a while since I have given you any sort of life updates or anything like that, so today's post is all about my life, what's happening, what I'm loving, etc. Enjoy!

Listening to: Pentatonix

Guys, I am completely addicted to Pentatonix. I've loved their Christmas stuff for a while, but I haven't stopped listening to them since December. They create such beautifully crafted covers of awesome songs, write some of their own, and if I am completely honest, I swoon a little every time I hear Scott's voice. They are so incredibly talented and great for practicing your own harmonies, if you're into that.

Watching: The Youtubes 😎

Hubs and I have a few Youtube channels that we love to watch together when he gets home from work at night. To name a few: FailArmy, News Bloopers, Team Coco (Conan), Carpool Karaoke, and Worth It (by Buzzfeed). These are really fun and hilarious. A good way to end the evening.

Reading: Harry Potter

I started reading the first book in the Harry Potter series a while back, but didn't really get very far. About three weeks ago I started reading it again and ended up totally sucked in. I am now on the third book and really enjoying it. I have always been a slow reader, but it feels so good to get back into reading.

Learning: To Be Patient

Patience, unfortunately, is not one of my strong-suits. Whoops... Thankfully, I am married to a very patient man who balances me out a bit. And now that I am looking for a job, I am having to remember not to be hasty. I don't want to be so worried about money that I run out and get the first thing that presents itself, only to hate it immediately. I'm learning (very slowly) to be a little more patient.

Wishing: I was a Full-Time Blogger

Remember that patience thing? Well, this is an area that I have not yet learned the art of patience in. I want it so, so bad. I'm growing, I'm learning, and I am drawing nearer to my goals everyday, but I want them to come now, not later. But again...patience, young grasshopper.

Life Updates: Taylor's Seminary and My Job

After this semester (which will be over in a little more than a month), Taylor will only have one semester left! Part of me can't believe how fast it's gone, and the other part of me cannot wait for him to finish. I am ready to feel more financially secure, to be on a more stable schedule, and to actually get to see my husband at normal hours of the day. I'm so ready!

As far as my job goes, I will be leaving sweet Evie in a couple of weeks. I love nannying for her a whole lot, but her family wants to spend more time with her which doesn't give me enough hours to stay. That means I am on the job hunt again. I would love to be able to go full-time as a virtual assistant and have completely revamped my "services" page, so we will see how that goes.

Other than my job situation, there isn't much going on in the lives of the Cooks. We wake up, work, eat, sleep, repeat. Adulting at it's finest, right? 😉
But seriously, life is good. Yes, we are ready for the next season, but we are thankful for the over-all blessings of our current one.

How are you feeling in your current season? Is it all over the place and scary, or uneventful, like ours?

Vacations- This is How I Do It

I am exciting to be linking up with Grace Mountain Diaries and The Boutelle Family Blog today for their monthly "This is How We Do It" link-up.

I haven't been on many vacations in my life, but they were always good when we did go. We had several memorable trips that we took as a family, but even when we didn't get to go on vacation, my family always made life sweet and fun.
We were always spending time together, always watching movies, reading, or playing games- even when my parents were exhausted, they still made it happen.

To me, that's vacation. It's not where you go, it's who you are with. Vacation is about loving life with those you cherish most. That almost sounds new-age-y: "Vacation is a state of mind"...  :p

But seriously, vacation is what you make of it. Whether you jet off to Paris, stay at a B&B in the next town over, or remain in the comfort of your own home, a vacation is still a vacation. Relax. Sleep more. Eat out at a nice restaurant that you usually would't go to. Go for a walk on the beach. Stroll under the night sky. Frolic in a field of wildflowers. Hike your favorite trail. Swim in the sea.
Whatever your favorite thing is, do it. And do it with your favorite people. Whether you are single and taking a trip with girlfriends, or married and enjoying time with your main-squeeze, make your time-off count.

If you are close to your parents and grandparents, you could also use your vacation time to go visit them. The last few times Taylor and I have had a break, we've gone to see my family. Now, I will say, since I'm from the beach, that trip is advantageous in more than one way. But even if your family lives somewhere not-so-exciting, you will still enjoy going. Ask them if they are up for visitors, and if you can be tourists with them in their town. Go to their favorite restaurants, go with them to the park where they walk every evening. Join them on their weekly trip to the ice cream shop. Relax with them. Laugh with them. Cherish each moment with them.

Those are just a few pictures from our last beach trip (right after Easter). It may be a while until we get to go back, but I am thankful for our time there. This was our vacation: we got a few gorgeous days at the beach and it was also a fantastic time with family and friends. I love that we got the whole package. Some people aren't able to do that, but if you are, take the opportunity. It's a blessing!


What do you do for vacation? How often do you get to have a vacation or staycation?

You Had No Idea, Did Ya?

Yesterday, I was perusing through my Bloglovin feed, when I came across Venus Trapped in Mars' newest post. She was joining in on a link-up on a blog called Helene In-Between. The link-up is all about revealing facts about yourself that a lot of people probably never knew.

I really enjoyed reading Sarah's (author of VTIM) list, and decided I would join in on the link-up.

***Things you probably don't know about me***

*My hands look JUST LIKE my grandmother's hands (except for my thumb, which looks exactly like my mom's)- Since I am kind of obsessed with becoming just like these two wonderful women, I actually feel really special that my hands look like theirs...yeah...that's kinda weird. I know.

*I am terrified of ring-worms- When I was a kid, I got a ring-worm. The fact that there was a "squiggly worm" under my skin was incredibly traumatizing. I still cringe every time I think about it. And even though I know now that it's not really a squiggly worm, I can't help but think of it that way. Yuck!

*I still think of Satan every time I see a snake- They are gross and scary. Just like Satan. End of discussion :p

*I adore Mario Kart, Pokemon, and Harvest Moon- When I am sick, a lot of the time I will either play Harvest Moon or Pokemon, even now, at 24 years old. And whenever we go to visit my family, my mom, brother, dad, Taylor and myself always make sure we get in at least one round of Mario Kart. It's a tradition that no one plans on breaking.

*If you move the rear-view mirror in my car you.will.die- it hasn't been moved for about three years. That's because the last time someone moved it, I almost had a heart attack. It's fully an OCD thing. I absolutely cannot stand it when someone moves my mirror.

*My favorite band is The Jonas Brothers (pre-breakup)- I've always loved pop music. I guess most girls "grow out of it" and stop loving boy bands. Call my tastes under-developed if you must, but my music of choice will almost always be pop music, and the more boy-bands that are in that mix, the better! And I still think Nick is the cutest ;)

*The thing I am most attracted to about my husband (other than his love for God) are his lips. I'm sure everyone wanted to know that...you're welcome.

*I was seriously offended when my husband said my toes weren't sexy- We were playing "The Newlywed Game" with some friends and Taylor had to name "the least sexy part of my body", or something like that. He said my toes. Most people (normal people) probably would have been like "yeah, my toes are ugly"...but I, the epitome of odd, was seriously offended that he would say my toes were not sexy. They are soooo sexy. Husband be crazy ;)

*I played basketball in high school (and scored 1,000 points in two years). Even though I went to a small Christian school, so the competition wasn't as tough, I'm still pretty proud of this one. I miss basketball (and being skinny and in-shape).

So now you know more about me than you probably ever wanted too, You are welcome. Aren't I interesting? ;)


What are some things people would be surprised to know about you?

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

The "Get It Together" Initiative

As someone who gained 100 pounds in college, I could stand to lose a few of those. And I start every day with good intentions. I eat a healthy breakfast, I drink some water, I read a health/fitness blog post or two, and then something happens. I see a food blog, a recipe, or I get a craving for Mexican food (like yesterday) and I throw all of my good intentions out the door and invite fat, calories, and grease in instead. Is this as familiar to you as it is to me?

Earlier this year, I created a group on Facebook called "Get it Together" (find it here). I started this group to encourage myself and others to eat healthy, exercise, and be accountable. The group is good for me because I never like writing that I "failed" that day, so if I stay active in the group, I have something to keep me motivated. My friend, Challice, has also been trying to do weekly challenges. One week it may be "who can drink the most water this week", the next week "who can put in the most amount of time working out". 

Right now, the group is small. However, I think it would be more effective if it grew in both size and incentive. So, starting today, June 9th, I will be opening the group up to anyone who is interested in participating. Then, on June 15th, I will launch the Get it Together Weightloss Challenge.

The weight loss challenge will last one month (June 15th-July 15th) and will be based on a point system.

Daily Participation (Up to 3 points/day)- For every day that you share in the Facebook group (this can be a picture and description of a healthy recipe you made that day, a picture/description of what your workout was that day, a picture/description of your meal plan, etc.) You get 1 point per post and you can earn up to three points per day doing this. The purpose of this is that it encourages others to follow a healthy lifestyle too. If I had been craving a burger, but I log on to our group and see that you posted a picture and recipe for a yummy salad, it will be much easier for me to gather myself and eat healthy :)


Completion of Weekly Challenges (2 points/week)- Each week, there will be a new challenge. For example, one might be: Drink 70 oz. of water at least 4 days out of the week. Whoever completes that challenge would get two points.


Weight Loss (up to 50 points)- At the beginning of this challenge, you will need to decide on a weight loss (or health) goal. For example, I hope to lose 10 pounds during this month-long challenge. If I lose all ten pounds (or more), I will get 50 points. If I lose 5 pounds, I would get 25 points.
The same goes with health goals. If your goal is to get 8 hours of sleep each nights and eat three servings of veggies every day for a month, and you do that, then you get 50 points. Just makes sure you keep track of how often you accomplish your goals so that you can post them at the end of the challenge. If sleep and veggies was your goal for the month and you slept 8 hours a night 14 days out of the month, and you ate your 3 servings of veggies 25 days out of the month, then you would report that to me and I would convert that into points :) If that confused anyone, ask me questions in the comment section below.

This will only work if people are seriously interested. If you are trying desperately to lose weight, get healthy, or simply find motivation, this group might be for you! 

Who's with me? Leave a comment below if you are interested or have any questions.

Click here to request to become a member of the "Get it Together" group and challenge.

If you are joining us for the challenge, grab the button below to put on your side-bar.

    

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A Grateful Heart Hodge-Podge

Happy Monday! I hope everyone had a wonderful weekend!

Being grateful for the things we have should come as second nature to us, but many times we get swept away by the stresses of life that we forgot all that we have been blessed with. Believe me, I know. I'm the worlds worst.

But ya know, we can always correct that. We can always take a minute to reflect, and thank God for all He lavishes us with.  We can always see good- something to be grateful for- even when life is at its worst.

So on this busy Monday, I challenge you to think of five things that you are truly grateful for. Reflect on them and what they mean to you, and thank God for them. And remember to praise the Giver of all good gifts, not the gifts themselves!

I am thankful for...

1.) Coffee. I am thoroughly enjoying my hazelnut coffee as I sit in bed typing            this post. Coffee isn't necessarily important (though that's debatable), but it is        still something for us to enjoy. Talk about a gift! 

2.) Our New Adventure. If all goes according to plan, Taylor and I will be                   moving to Charlotte, NC at the beginning of August. It is going to be hard to       leave our family, friends, church, and Bible study, but we feel like this is the         next step for us. Though it is bitter-sweet, I am so incredibly excited about           this new adventure.

3.) The Pool. As many of you know, I adore the water. I love looking at it,                swimming in it, and splashing in it. Since I no longer live at the beach, I try to      fill my summer with as much pool time as possible. Thankfully, there is a            nearby pool that is very nice. I am very excited to frequent it!

4.) Odd-jobs. As we are saving for this very expensive thing called seminary, we      are trying to earn as much money as possible. Taylor has been working long,        extra hours to add to those savings. I, however, am having a terrible time              finding something. But over and over again, God keeps providing small side        jobs for me to do. Truth be told, I like those better anyway. I am so thankful       for His continuous provision, despite my lack of a "real job".

5.) My husband. I am thankful for this wonderful man who lets me cry in his            arms when I am sad, anxious, or even mad at God. He let's me cry, but he still      points me back to truth and a right way a thinking. The Lord knows how              much I need that, and in His gracious gift-giving, He blessed me with a                husband who does those things without hesitation. Taylor is not perfect, but          he is a gift from the Lord- one of the best gifts I'll ever receive.


Father God in Heaven, thank you for all of these gifts. Thank you for giving me what I need, and thank you for even giving me things like coffee that I don't need, but do enjoy. Help me to always be thankful for the gifts, but never praise them. Help me always have right perspective and praise you, the Giver, God in Heaven. Thank you for knowing what I need and giving it. I love you, God in Heaven, in Jesus' name, amen.

I am joining Emily from Ember Grey in her grateful heart link-up.

The Peony Project (A Grateful Heart)

Almost two months ago, I found something amazing: a blogging group that encourages a deep-rooted commitment to Christ, while offering emotional support, friendship, and blogging tips.

I didn't know that such a thing existed. A year ago, I was just getting into my blog for fun, unknowingly about to step into something that would re-kindle my love for writing and would become a venue for the devotional posts I had felt called to write since I was in high school!

The Peony Project, the amazing group I referred to above, was started by Betsy Gettis, over at Heaven's to Betsy. This is what Betsy has to say about The Peony Project:

We exist to provide a source of community in the wide world of blogging. If you're excited about what Jesus is doing through you and others in our little corners of the internet, if you crave a common space to share ideas and encourage one another, and if you're looking to make real, honest friendships in this crazy place called the world wide web, then you came to the right place!

Betsy is spot on about this group. Through The Peony Project I have already made several friends, I have been strengthened spiritually through many of their blog posts, I have been given great tips about blogging, and as an added bonus, I have gained page views. Though getting more page views is not the main point of this group, it still warms my heart to know that these women are taking time out off their day to come see my blog, which in turn, increases my stats.

The Peony Project is an enormous blessing. As I strive towards blogging as an eventual career, I already know that I've got this huge support group behind me! What an honor it is to be a part of this! I am so grateful.

If you would like to know more about The Peony Project, follow this link to Betsy's blog.

Are you a part of the blogging world? Is it just for fun, or is it your career? And if you are not a blogger, what do you enjoy about reading blogs?

*This post is part of Ember Grey's "A Grateful Heart" weekly link-up*

The Ministry of Hospitality

If you are like me, every time someone steps into your home, you are constantly watching to see if they appear comfortable. You want with all of your heart for your guests to love your decor, feel as if they are in their own home, and it'd be nice if they also thought you were the best cook in the world...is there anyone out there who feels the same way?

I love when people come over. Taylor and I host a weekly bible study for young adults in our home and we love it! It is so nice to have people come and fellowship. We like giving the gift of our home to them, in hopes that no matter what is going on in their lives, they can come in and feel comfortable sitting, resting, and sharing what is on their hearts.

We aren't perfect hosts. Sometimes I'm lazy. Sometime me and Taylor banter back and forth too much and probably make people feel like we are fighting (even though we are joking...most of the time, haha). Sometimes I don't feel like cleaning up as much as I should. Sometimes, like any other human, I'm grumpy. But I definitely hope (and think) that our friends always feel welcomed, loved, cherished, and comfortable when they step into our humble abode.

In reality, even though my natural reaction is to worry about the house itself- is it clean enough? warm enough? cool enough? pretty enough?- hospitality is really about Christ. Sure, it would be bad hospitality (and a bad witness) to let our house be filthy, or to act as if we didn't care if our guests were comfortable, but hospitality is so much more than a clean house.

Hospitality done right is a ministry in itself. When people feel welcomed, they feel loved. When they know that your home is open to them, people will typically feel important. In turn, when someone feels important, they will be more willing to share their heart, their pain, and their struggles. And as a person shares these things, we can better encourage them, love them, and lift them up.

When Taylor and I host our Bible study (or anytime we have people over), we strive to make each person feel loved. We do this differently- Taylor is a joker. He enjoys humor in most situations. I, however, am a words-of-affirmation kind of gal. But regardless of our methods, we desire that 1.) our guests will feel incredibly loved and welcomed in, and 2.) that they will see Christ through our marriage. In my opinion, both of those things are a form of ministry.

Furthermore, hospitality is something that God seems to have called each individual to. In 1 Timothy 5:9-10, Paul is instructing Timothy on what kind of widow can be marked as having adequately served the Lord in her life. He says:

No widow may be put on the list of widows unless she is over sixty, has been faithful to her husband, and is well known for her good deeds, such as bringing up children, showing hospitality, washing the feet of the Lord’s people, helping those in trouble and devoting herself to all kinds of good deeds.

Obviously, Paul saw hospitality as an attribute of godliness; otherwise, it wouldn't have been on this list.
And we see the same theme again (this time for all believers) in Titus 1:8,

Be hospitable, a lover of good, self-controlled, upright, holy, and disciplined.

And again in both Galatians 5:13 and Hebrews 13:16

 For you were called to freedom, brothers. Only do not use your freedom as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another. (Galatians)

 Do not neglect to do good and to share what you have, for such sacrifices are pleasing to God. (Hebrews)

No matter where Taylor and I go in life- whether we are missionaries in a dessert land, rich entrepreneurs in New York (now that's funny right there), or residents of North Carolina for the rest of our lives- I want us to be a couple who always welcomes people into our home. I want to always show people they are loved by inviting them in, lifting them up, and bearing their burdens. This is a ministry that I love, and that I feel very capable and gifted to do. Some people are much more gifted in other areas- areas that I am miserably bad at (like patience, preaching, and teaching). But since God has gifted me with both the gift of encouragement and the ability to reach out to people through hospitality, I hope to spend the rest of my life improving and growing in these things, using them as a witness for God and our Savior, Jesus Christ.

How do you exercise hospitality? What ways (other than opening your home) can you exercise hospitality? Are there creative ways of doing so? Comment below.


*This post is part of the monthly Peony Project link-up. If you would like to see more posts on hospitality, or link-up your own post about hospitality, follow this link.

Weekly Wishes

I'm really loving the weekly wishes link-up over at The Nectar Collective. Basically, the link-up is to help us stay accountable by actually putting our goals into writing, which for me, makes them more real.

This week, I am going to be fairly busy. I've got a job interview, tea with a friend, Zumba, a youth/young adult missions meeting at church, a doctors appointment, and training to become a special-needs tutor. In addition to that, I have my normal home chores, Bible study, and blogging. Whew! I'm tired just talking about it!

But regardless of the busyness, I can still make a few small goals for the week....

*Weekly Wishes for April 20th-26th*

Blogging: Get three posts ahead- I mentioned in my monthly goals that I wanted to get three weeks ahead on my blogging, but I think that three full weeks seems too overwhelming, so if I start with a few days ahead I can eventually work up to it.

Eating: Don't eat after 8pm- This was one of our New Year's Resolutions but we have failed miserably. I want to get back on track immediately. I did weigh a few days ago and had lost two pounds, so that's good....but there's still 98 to go!

Home: Make my bed everyday- I never make my bed. Even though I have a desk I end up blogging in bed in my PJ's. I want to get back in the habit of putting on non-pj-ish clothes, putting on make-up, and making the bed. I just feel more put together that way.

Spiritual: Read my bible 4 times- Again, my goals from the New Year have gone sorely downhill, as most do. I need this habit more than I need any other habit to be formed. So I'm workin' on it.

So that's it for me this week. Hopefully I can handle these!

Do you have any goals for the week or month? I'd love to read about them in the comments section! 

And you can also write your own weekly wishes post and link it up over at The Nectar Collective. It goes live every Monday, but you can link-up all week. 

Tourist in my Hometown *Volume 1*

Ever since March of 2014, when Taylor and I got married, I have lived in Waynesville, NC. It's not the beach, but it is a beautiful area with kind people and the cutest little shops all over the place. I haven't explored nearly as much as I would like to, but every time I do, I feel like I am entering into a new world. Waynesville has a lot to offer if you just take the time to look around.

Yesterday, my mother-in-law and I had another breakfast date (I'm really enjoying those!) and we decided to try a new-ish bakery that opened in Hazelwood, NC (right next to Waynesville).

Nettie's Bakery is barely noticeable if you are just driving by, but once you step inside you'll feel like you are in England (as much as someone who's never been to England can tell, anyway).

There are beautiful teapots all over the store and a china cabinet filled with teapots and china. I was very impressed by the cuteness of it all.

I decided to get a cranberry-orange scone, and Toni tried the Eclair with chocolate ganache. Let me tell you, people...that scone was bangin'! Seriously, it was authentic (in other words, it was a biscuit texture), with a barely there sweetness that was just perfect for breakfast. It was served warm with a drizzle of icing on top, but not too much. We had coffee with our pastries (of course!), and the owner said they serve a lot of English black tea as well.

After we had breakfast, we headed next door to a cute store called Robin Blu. I've mentioned it before, but it is such a cool shop. It's got candles, home decor, wedding decor, and very pretty jewelry too.

There were several coffee signs and mugs that I need for my collection ( Taylor would debate the need aspect of my statement :p ). I also loved the blue mason jar light fixture. Unfortunately, I didn't get the best picture of it...sorry.

If I worked in Nettie's Bakery, I'd easily gain 20 pounds, and if I worked at Robin Blu, I'd spend my whole paycheck every week! If you are ever in Waynesville/Hazelwood North Carolina, make sure you check these shops out. They are conveniently located side-by-side, so you have no excuse to miss out on one ;)


Have you ever really explored your town? I highly recommend it! If you do, please let me know. I'd love to read all about it. And let Jess over at A Stamp in my Passport know too! She's the one who started the "A Tourist in Your Hometown" posts.

Growing in and with God (#1- Prayer)

Hello all! I hope you are all having a wonderful day!

Today I am linking up with Katie over at Hot Tea and the Empty Seat. She has started a link-up called "Growing in and with God".

This week's "Growing in God" is about prayer and things that help us in our prayer time with God.

Prayer is something that is essential to the Christian's life. If we don't spend time talking to God, we forfeit our "all-access pass" to an intimate relationship with our Creator.

God has laid out very plainly that we should be in constant prayer:

And this is the confidence that we have toward him, that if we ask anything according to his will he hears us. And if we know that he hears us in whatever we ask, we know that we have the requests that we have asked of him.  (1 John 5:14-15)  

I desire then that in every place the men should pray, lifting holy hands without anger or quarreling. (1 Timothy 2:8)

I could easily find 100 more verses talking about praying and calling out to God, but I figured these three would be enough ;)

Prayer is so important, but I know I neglect it often, only praying about my wants or worries. I leave out praying for others and selfishly only think of myself. I also fail to pray that God's will be done. I ignore the fact that his way is best and in all my asking, I avoid acknowledging that no matter how God answers my prayers, his way is still perfect (and mine is not).

One thing that really helps me when I pray is typing out my prayers. Before I read any scripture or devotional, or write a blog post of my own, I sit down and start praying. I type it out because it helps me focus. I don't go off on rabbit trails or day-dream nearly as often. It also makes me more aware of what and how I am praying. Sometimes I look back and realize that I haven't thanked God for anything as I've prayed that day, which helps me refocus and start talking to God as I should.

I also like to follow the Lord's prayer (at least as a general rule) to know the best way and best things to pray. We can, of course, come to God about anything, but Jesus did teach us how to pray and I think that if Jesus, who is also God in human form, had a "best way" to pray, it's probably a good idea to follow it.

Is there anything that you do that helps you focus during your prayer time? Do you have a favorite spot to pray or a journal that helps you focus? Comment below.

A Grateful Heart (For my Husband)

March 1st was a big day for Taylor and I... it was our one year wedding anniversary! I can't believe it! In most ways, it's astonishing how this year has flown, but in other ways, Taylor and I were immediately so comfortable with married life that it feels like we've been married for a few years already.

I have such a grateful heart for the blessing Taylor is in my life. I am so thankful for the strong, passionate man of God that he is, and for his patience towards all of my weirdness. I'm grateful to have someone who is constantly talking about God's word and combating the wrong thinking of the world.

I'm grateful that our first year of marriage went so smoothly. We had our challenges, but for the most part, the first year was easy. God carried us through with a lot of grace. We learned to live together, learned to communicate in more detail (an essential part of daily married life), and learned a few hard lessons about ourselves.

I'm grateful that despite our individual selfishness- our wants, our needs, our whining - God carried us through and he continually uses our marriage (and flaws) to shape and sharpen the two of us. 

I'm grateful that my husband's desire (as is mine) is to let our marriage be the gospel to the world. A marriage that shows the forgiveness, mercy and unconditional love of Christ is what we are called to and what the world needs to see. I'm thankful that, despite our brokenness, we both have that same goal, and we both belong to the God who wants that for us and will help us achieve it, for his own glory!

My Grateful Heart List

• My husband
• Coffee
• Fuzzy blankets
• God's grace and blogs that continually remind me of that
• Chocolate Chip Cookies
• My Nana

This post is part of Ember Grey's "A Grateful Heart" link-up. Click the button at the top of this post to view the link-up! Anyone with a blog is welcome to write a Grateful Heart post and participate!

What are you grateful for today? Is there anything you need to be more thankful for than you have been lately? Comment below!

Dreaming of Waves

I'm a beach girl. I love the ocean, the sand, the hot sun beating on my body while the salty air simultaneously whips against my skin. I love kicking the waves as they rush towards me, I love swimming, and I love letting my dogs run along the shore.

Lately, I have been craving the beach something awful. Maybe it's just because everything has been so cold, but I think it's more than that. I only got to step foot on the beach once last summer and it wasn't the greatest beach weather. And before that, I had not been since Easter! Far too long for me. I love it and I miss it. I really hope that sometime in the Spring, Taylor and I can make it to the beach. Even if we have to wait until summer, I need to go. Yes, need.

I love the mountains, but there's nothing better than a hot-pink sunset over the sea. There's nothing better than looking over the ocean and knowing that there is so much more beyond what your eyes behold. To me, that's when God seems most mighty.

I love walking on the beach on a summer morning, or packing a picnic lunch and camping out in front of the water all day. Bring a book, bring music, or bring nothing. Either way, it feels so good just to be there. It's so peaceful, so calming.

Ocean Isle Beach is my favorite, probably because it's where I grew up. But I'd also love to go back to Charleston, South Carolina. Taylor and I were only there for a brief time before our honeymoon cruise departed. I'd love to go back and explore the town, and I'd love to go on the beach there.

I would also love to go back to the Gulf of Mexico. I went with my 6th and 7th grade class to swim with the manatees at Crystal River and we spend one evening on the Gulf playing football and eating pizza. I don't remember much, but I know it was beautiful and I'd love to go back. Really, I'd like to do that entire trip again.

I've been making a summer bucket list on Pinterest and all the themes still revolve around the beach, even though I don't live there anymore...that could pose a problem ;)

Ignore my "crazy-lady" face ;)

But I am thankful that the mountains have creeks, rivers and lakes. It may not be what I'm craving, but it at least gives me a place to splash around and swim.

Where is your summer "happy place"? What are you dreaming of and longing for currently? Comment below and let me know!

5 Ways to Focus on Others

Every single day, I wake up, start the coffee pot, let the dogs outside, turn on my laptop, and look at my favorite blogs. I sit in a cushy (and cute) chair at a table by the window, on a laptop that cost enough to feed a family for 2-3 months. I drink my coffee, unaware of the hands that prepared it, making very little money in the process, so that I could sit here enjoying it.

I am allowed to have comforts in my life. It isn't a sin, and I try to use what I have for God's glory. God is not dissatisfied with me because I own a laptop (at least in my humble opinion). But when I really sit back and examine the way I live, I quickly realize that my focus is not on others nearly enough. I live for my own comfort and my own enjoyment. Sure! I share the name of Jesus, I don't steal, and I try not to gossip, so that other's might see God through me. But there is so much more I could be doing; so much more that would require that maybe I don't sit and watch Netflix as often, or maybe, just maybe, I don't spent as much money on groceries, or makeup, or another coffee mug that I don't need.... just sayin'.

I was watching Bones (the best show ever, of course!) yesterday, and the episode was about human trafficking. Though the specific issue of trafficking is not something I know much about, it got me thinking about how many hurting people go unnoticed every day. How many people are being exploited, beaten down, or hurt (whether physically, emotionally, or spiritually), without many of us even knowing.

I've mentioned before that Haywood County now has Haywood Pathways (a shelter/halfway house/work-help program). How many people do I know that stay there, or work there? Zero. That's how many. And how many times have I served at the local soup kitchen? Zero. How many hats and scarves have I made to give to the homeless, instead of for my own profit? Zero.

I'm not writing this to hate on myself, or anyone else for that matter. I only wish to make us all aware of just how very selfish and contentedly cushy we are. I get upset when my laptop doesn't work right, and there are people just outside my front door who haven't eaten in days.

All that being said, here are a few ideas to get us focusing on others instead of ourselves.

1.) Use your talents- if you have a crafty skill, like crocheting, knitting, jewelry making, or even cooking, use that to bless others. Knit a hat and scarf set and take it to the local homeless shelter. Make a bracelet and give it to someone at work that drives you nuts, just because you can. Crochet a blanket for your Great Aunt that you haven't seen or talked to in a year, cook a meal for that elderly lady in your church who gets so lonely... whatever your skill is, use it.

2.) Send cards- Cards are not just for holidays and sick people. Instead of sitting in front of a Netflix marathon and eating way too many chocolate covered pretzels, sit down at the table and write out a few cards. My husband's grandmother is in her 90's, but every time we go down to her apartment to say "hi", she's got another letter for someone written out and ready to be mailed. At her age, it would be easy for her to say, "People should be writing me cards" or "People should be coming to visit me". But each week, she mails cards to people and helps out at church. She gives, instead of takes, and I greatly admire that.

3.) Get involved- Whether you put this into practice in your community or in your church, get involved. Help in the nursery at your church, volunteer at the food bank in your town, or help clean up from an event, even when it's not your job. Go visit a nursing home, or offer to babysit pro-bono for the new parents that haven't had a second alone since the baby was born.

4.) Use the Internet- Everyone has 10 seconds to write on someone's wall on Facebook, or send someone an encouraging pin on Pinterest. If you know one of your friends or acquaintances are struggling with something, there is no reason not to write a short blurb on their wall letting them know they are loved and being prayed for. Sometimes, 10 seconds is all it takes, and the internet makes those small encouragements possible.

5.) Pray- A great way to take the focus off of yourself and put it onto others is to pray for them. Sure, pray for your personal needs, but spend time thanking God for who He is and ask Him to take care of the needs of others. This is a wonderful way to get off the selfish-train. When we pray for others, not only are we preoccupying our brains with something other than "me-itis", but we also tend to realize just how blessed we are, and how much love the world needs.

Try putting one or more of these ideas into practice this week. I know I will!
What idea stood out most to you? Do you have any ideas to add to the list? Comment below and let me know.

Have a great day!

*  Kristin *

*This blog is linked-up with A Harvest of Blessings blog on their "Share the Journey" link-up. 

Currently Loving #1

Today is a special day because I am linking up with Crystal over at The Happy Type. Crystal challenged her readers to share about something they are absolutely loving online at the moment and then post it to her blog. You can check out Crystal's blog or the Link-up I've referred to here.

So for my first "Currently Loving" post, I thought I'd share a quote I found on Pinterest that really stuck out to me.

{via}

The reason this quote hit so hard is because I've spent most of my life taking everything personally. This really took a tole on me in college. There were a few people (almost always girls... of course) that had negative things to say that always got back to me. They didn't know me at all, and yet I still let their hurtful, untrue comments affect me for the entire four years of college.

The thing is, though I am far from perfect and certainly have plenty of flaws, the people who knew me well in college almost always had good things to say. That isn't to say I always made them happy, but they saw my heart and saw the good things in me. They would say things that uplifted and they were always being truthful. It was almost always the people who didn't know me at all that had negative things to say. 

Oh how I wish I had realized that then! It would have saved me a lot of tears. And I'll be honest... it may seem petty, but I still have trouble forgiving those girls. The words they said that they don't even realize got back to me still hurt.

If I had taken the quote above to heart, I wouldn't be having this problem. I would have long-since let it go, and I would not have been nearly as self-conscious throughout my college years. 

That is why I am loving this quote. It is something that everyone needs to remember. Trust me, the people in your life who know and love you will see your flaws and speak to you about them in love. The people who don't know you will just try to tear you down with accusations and judgments that may not even be true to begin with.

Give yourself a break. Don't believe and accept every criticism you hear about yourself. Be self-evaluating and make sure you aren't in the wrong, but learn to let false criticism and judgments go. Don't carry their hurt or accusations.

What are you currently loving online right now? Let me know in the comment section below. You can also write your own "currently loving" blog post and link it up at The Happy Type!