7 Ways to Make an Awesome Day Even More Awesome

*Originally Published on The Peculiar Treasure on May 2015

Do you ever have one of those days where you just wake up and everything is awesome? Or maybe it even takes you an hour or two, but sometime during the morning you realize that there is joy surrounding you. The birds are chirping, the sun is shining, all the plants seem to be shouting "look at me!", and your mood is bursting with energy and positivity! Do you ever feel like that?

I tend to feel like that less than I would like to, but I do have those days- those awesome, beautiful days!

On days like that, I know I had better take advantage of those feelings. Those are the days where I am most productive, most pleasant, and most self confident. I am more likely to exercise and eat healthy, I am more likely to have a good prayer time, and I am more likely to have a grateful disposition.

Wonderfuls, when these days present themselves, I feel like we should take life by the horns and make the most of it by creating a day that matches our mood.

So here are 7 things you can do to enhance your already-awesome day!

7 Ways to Make an Awesome Day More Awesome

1.) Groom yourself and your home

When I was a teenager struggling with depression, my mom would always tell me to get up, make my bed, get out of my PJ's, and put on makeup. This was because she knew it would make me feel better. I used to not understand it. But since I have my own house and am living as a married "grown-up", I definitely understand now. I almost always feel better when I take her advice. There is something about a freshly made bed, a cute outfit, and a little bit of makeup that makes this gal feel more productive, put together, and ready to face the day. Give it a whirl. It can't hurt!

2.) Take a Day Trip

You know that restaurant in the next town over that you've been dying to try? Well, just go. Treat yo' self to a little road-trip. Invite friends or make it a solo venture- whatever your heart desires. Newness is always exciting, and you don't have to go very far to find that. Feeling super adventurous? Turn your day trip into a weekend getaway to the beach or mountains. Go hiking on a new trail, rock hopping in a creek, or for the over-adventurous folks, go skinny dipping in the sea- or on second thought... how about not ;)
Regardless of the size of the adventure, spend your awesome day doing what makes your heart sing.

3.) Read Outside

So maybe you aren't a very adventurous person...that's ok! There are still plenty of things for you to do! One of my favorite laid-back activity is sitting outside, soaking in the rays of sun that are dipping down to kiss my skin while I lose myself in a good book. Whether you like young adult fiction, self-improvement books, or Good Housekeeping Magazine, grab your favorite reading material and get yourself outside. Just don't forget the sunscreen!

4.) Clean Crap Up

Though I cannot relate, some of my friends love to clean. I don't get it, but thank God for them. In college, my wonderful friend and suite-mate would ask me if she could clean my room when she was stressed. Um, yes please! For those wonderful weirdos (a term of endearment!), on days when you are already feeling awesome, why not add more awesome to the mix by cleaning. You already know you enjoy it, and with your good attitude you will surely get things done more quickly- leaving you feeling productive and accomplished. Happy cleaning!

5.) Get Your Garden On

Another way to really enjoy your day is to spend it gardening. A lot of people feel so happy when they are able to get their hands dirty. Pull some weeds, plant some more flowers, or just take some time to admire the gardening you've already done. It is scientifically proven that looking at pretty flowers is a good idea ;)

6.) Ride a Bike

One of my favorite things to do is ride bikes. Somehow, this love skipped over my husband and friends... Sad day. But when I have a sunshine-y day staring me down, I almost always want to ride my bike. I don't have any bike-riding buddies around here, but I have got to stop letting that be an excuse because I love it way too much to miss out. So let's go ride a bike!

7.) Take Pictures

When the day is "pretty as a picture", why not actually take pictures? Do you have a favorite spot around town? A hidden gem that always brings a smile to your face? Then go capture it on camera. Don't know of anything in particular to snap pictures of? Then go exploring. Walk around town. Photograph strange things, beautiful things, mysterious things- all the things. Be creative. It's fun!

What do you like to do to improve the awesomeness of your day?

Note: Any day can be awesome. You don't need to wait for the perfect job, the perfect relationship, or even the perfect weather. Any day can be awesome if you will allow it to be. So rain or shine, happy or sad, do all you can to have an awesome day.

Good Days Are Always Possible

Most days for me are good ones. I don't have a lot of drama, I am blessed in almost all aspects of my life, and I really don't have a reason to complain. But regardless of how blessed I am, it's easy to fall into the trap of living each day as if they were just "blah".

I find that even when nothing bad has happened in my day, I often get annoyed, depressed, or bored if nothing life-changing happens. But seriously guys, I don't have to have a mind-blowing, jaw-dropping day of events to enjoy life. So it begs the question: why do I live life like I do need that to be happy?

As cliche' as it may be, it really is the simple things in life that keep me going! When I look at the things that matter most to me, it's mostly things like relaxing with my family as we talk and watch television, or going out to dinner with my hubby. Those are the things that make me happy. I don't need flashy adventures to enjoy myself. And I have all ideas that if you look hard enough, you'll find the same thing to be true in your own life.

A Simple, Happy Day

A few weeks ago, I decided that I wasn't going to wait around any longer to ride a bike again. I love riding, but I don't have anyone in my life that likes to ride (other than my dad who lives 3 hours away). I don't like riding bikes by myself- it's just not as fun. But I was sick of waiting around, hoping to find someone who loves to ride.

So I got my stuff together, headed to the park, and I went for my first ride in several years.

I'm not gonna lie- my butt hurt after about one minute ;)

But it felt so good to be on a bike, and to get some exercise without more walking. I only did 2.5 miles, which is nothing really, but I am so out of shape that that was it for me. Plus, I was going to South Carolina for the day so I couldn't stay long anyway.

Farm Time

I'm not a farm girl. Grass makes me itch, I hate poop, and I squeal if a bug flies at me. But I love going to my mom's farm and spending time with her, seeing her work with her animals, and petting the ones that are friendly enough to pet ;)

I love spending time with Blaze- the cutest farm-puppy ever- and petting the gross, fat, pot-bellied pigs. The female pig just had babies on Wednesday actually, and I am so excited to meet them (and hold them, and squeeze them, and love them <3 )

We didn't do anything exciting, really. We just hung around the house and ate lunch together. Then I headed home and watched Netflix with Taylor until I was too tired to stay awake any longer.

Why Am I Telling You About a Random Day?

It doesn't make a difference in your life that my mom's pig had babies, or that I finally got to ride a bike again. It won't help you in your troubles or bring you real joy. But there's more to this post than just boring you with the details of my day. Pinky promise! ;)

No. The point is this: My simple day should be an encouragement to you that everyday, "boring" or not, can be a huge blessing.

I didn't do anything record-breaking, and I didn't "accomplish" anything that day, but I enjoyed it, I treasure it, and it meant a lot to me. Why? Because family time is important. Because doing things that you enjoy- even when you do them by yourself- is a luxury that not everyone has. There are children in other countries who don't really ever get to experience childhood. They have to be adults as soon as they can walk and talk. But we not only get to experience growing up in a relatively safe environment, but we also get to pursue our passions, our hobbies, and time with those we love, even as adults.

So look around at your "blah" day. Is it really "blah", or are you missing out on the little moments that could actually bring you joy if you'd let them?
Take stock of each day. Let them be a blessing, even in the plain, mundane, lack-luster days. Chances are, they aren't nearly as "lack-luster" as you've believed them to be.

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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?

Apple Picking and an Update

Hi guys! I am so happy you are here! Thanks for always joining along with me in this big ol' blogging world. You're the best!

I've mention a lot on Instagram lately how excited I have been that my family and I are living closer together again. Having them so close has been super exciting! We've been able to spend so much time together even just in the past month.

In fact, this past Wednesday, my mom and I were able to go apple picking. The apple orchard that I always went to in college is only an hour away, so we drove to Flat Rock (just outside of Hendersonville, NC) and picked apples together.

Mama had never been picking and I was so glad I was the person who got to go with her on her first trip to the orchard.

Their were mostly Fuji apples to pick when we went, which was fine with me because I love em'!

It was so nice to be in the mountains again. I love the crisp air and beautiful views.

After we were done picking, we headed inside to see if there were any other types of apples we wanted to buy. I ended up with the Fujis and mama ended up with Ida Reds. We bought a few Asian pears too (YUM!).
Oh, and there was also a giant pumpkin :)

We also tried a homemade apple slushie and bought a half-dozen apple cider donuts that the orchard makes right in front of you. Seriously, they are absolutely fantastic!

I am so thankful for this time with my mom. I feel like we are catching up on all the time we missed while I was in college. Six hours apart doesn't sound like a lot, but it really is when you are as close as we are.

**************

Now, for a brief Charlotte update:

We have been in Charlotte for over a month now, and I am loving my job. Baby E is the sweetest little one ever and her mom and dad are great too. We have a great time playing outside, listening to music, and hanging out with the family dog.

Taylor got a job working at a Gourmet hot dog shop in Charlotte. He stays so busy and so tired, but I am proud of him and we know it will be worth it :) He is loving seminary and we are both working towards making friends and finding a church to call our own.

Thank you to those who are following and supporting our journey.

Happy Tuesday, friends!

Mug-spiration Monday *Vol. 13*

Was anyone else just absolutely thrilled by the weather yesterday? I know I was!
I pictured myself frolicking in a meadow, but one must be able to run to do that, so I settled for rolling the car window down ;)

The weekend was filled with a lazy, Bones-binging Saturday morning. Then my mom, dad, and brother came for a late afternoon visit. My brother spent the night with Taylor and I, and the next morning we got up and went to church.

Church searching is getting a little old. No church is perfect, but our tiny little church in Waynesville was truly the best church I've ever been a part of. And as we try new churches, I am seeing more and more how blessed we were.

After church, we headed over to the farm to hang out with my parents and brother and eat Sunday lunch. We hung out with the chicken, ducks, and goats, and I swang (swinged? swung? are those words?) on the farm swing, which was so fun!

Now we are back to the work week. Even though I am tired and dragging this morning, I am thankful that I really do like my job. I am thankful that I don't have to do the whole "office job" thing in order to provide for Taylor and I. I am also thankful that during the baby's naps, I am allowed to work on this blog. That is a huge blessing!

But regardless if you are a nanny too, or if you work in an office, at a school, at McDonalds, or even if you are the CEO of a major company, you can choose your attitude for the day. You can choose to be grumpy because it's Monday and you don't want to go to work, or you can choose to be thankful you are living another day, and thankful that you have the opportunity to do great things and be a good influence today. The choice is yours, but my recommendation is to skip the grumpy ;)

Mug-spiration Monday Inspiration

Spiritual Inspiration- God is with his children always.

Creative Inspiration- Make some art.

Work Inspiration- Dream dreams for yourself, and have a purpose.

There is enough negativity in this world to last a lifetime. How about we decide to be the light in the darkness, and the perky amidst the grump-monsters?

Have a wonderful day, friends!

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?

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.

Father's Day Gift's (throwback)

Note ***I am re-sharing this since Father's day is quickly approaching :) ***

Dad's are an important part of life. Without a dad, we can't help but feel like something is missing. This isn't to say that someone can't be raised well without a Father, but it does make it a heck of a lot harder.

I am blessed with a very sweet dad who loves me deeply. He and I are very different in a lot of ways, but in some ways I understand exactly how he thinks and I can see a lot of similarities between us. I am thankful for my dad and thankful that I can always tell how much he loves me.

Saturday, June 21st, is Father's day. Just like I wanted to treat my mom on Mother's Day, I also want to treat my dad on Father's Day.

But sometimes, dads can be hard to shop for. We know that Father's Day isn't really about the gift, but that doesn't mean we want to epically fail in that department. So since the day is approaching quickly, here are a few gift ideas for Father's Day :)

Gift Ideas for Dad

Treat Him to Dinner
Does your dad have a favorite restaurant? Tell him to clear his schedule on Father's Day (or somewhere close to it) and take him out for dinner and dessert. Believe me, he will feel special, knowing you carved that time out for him.
Don't live near your dad? Send him a gift-card to his favorite restaurant and tell him to splurge on a giant steak dinner.


DVD "Kit"
If your dad is anything like mine, he loves shows and movies (especially the "oldies-but-goodies"). Find his favorite shows on DVD and construct a bag with those movies/shows, along with a box of pop-corn and a bag of chocolates. He will be in television heaven!


Decorated Picture
This one is for all those sentimental-teddy-bear-daddys (again, like mine). Get an 8x10 picture frame (Walmart has some sturdy yet very cheap ones) and a piece of card stock in whatever color you prefer. Select one or two pictures of you and your dad and have them printed. Cut the card stock to fit in the picture frame. Use a glue stick or double-sided tape to secure the pictures onto the card stock. Decorate the rest of the exposed card stock with sweet words, art work, or scrap booking accents. After you are satisfied with your mini-"collage", put it in the frame and viola! My dad loves gifts like these.


Sports Tickets
If you and your dad have always watched sports together, why not get him tickets to see a team he likes! With baseball season in full-force, there are plenty of games to choose from. Can't afford the pro's? Take him to see your local minor league team instead. Even if it's not the Major Leagues, I'm sure he'd still enjoy the game- especially with you!


My daddy has always been fairly easy to please with gifts, but regardless of what your dad is like, I feel confident he will like at least one of these picks. However, if your dad is impossible to shop for, buy him a card. Write a note in the card telling him that the day is his and that you want to do whatever he wants to do. You can't get any safer than that! ;)

What are you thinking about doing for your dad for Father's Day?

Cupcakes, Friends, and Weddings- Oh My!

I'm exhausted. My feet ache and my brain is not quite functioning. But my heart is full and happy.

This past weekend was my friend's wedding. Bri and her fiance' are so sweet together and they have been waiting for this day for a long time! They are a Christian couple who have committed their relationship to the Lord and they strive to honor Him. And anytime there is a couple like that, it's hard not to be happy for them.

On Wednesday evening, Challice arrived from Kentucky to stay with me and Taylor during the wedding festivities. I have missed my dear friend and I am so happy she was able to stay with us.

We spent the day together on Thursday laying out in the sun and buying ingredients for Bri's wedding cake and cupcakes. That evening, we headed over to Asheville for Bri's bachelorette party at an Italian restaurant called Vinnie's. It was delicious and the service was fantastic! I was very impressed with our waiter and the food. We sat inside, but there was also the most adorable outdoor seating area with strands of lights hanging from the wooden ceilings. If you are ever in Asheville, I highly recommend Vinnie's.

After we ate we went shopping and then drove to Bri's house, where we watched my all-time favorite movie, 27 Dresses :D

The next day, me, Challice, and our friend Sara worked together to bake, frost and decorate the mini cupcakes that would be served at Bri and Chris' reception. We baked around 350 mini cupcakes. Half were red velvet cupcakes with cream cheese frosting, with a white chocolate pretzel on top. The others were white cake with cherry frosting and half of a cherry on top. They were so cute!

Challice also made the wedding cake!

The Bride looked beautiful!

Pre-wedding fun :)

Saturday was the wedding! The sanctuary and all the reception decorations looked perfect, the cupcakes were finished and delicious, Bri looked stunning on her big day, and we were all ready to see the happy couple get hitched. Everything went incredibly smoothly. 

I think the sweetest part of the day was watching all the dances. Bri and Chris' first dance was super cute, Bri and her dad danced and cried together (which in turn made me cry), and than I balled like a little baby when Bri and Chris honored her parents' approaching anniversary by having them dance to their own first dance song from their wedding day. It was ridiculously sweet. It made me happy.

 I am so thankful for Bri, and happy for her and Chris that they don't have to wait anymore. I am thankful for the time I was able to spend with Bri, Challice, and Sara, and thankful that I met some wonderful people.

Was your weekend as eventful as mine? What did you do? 

Happy Mother's Day!

Other than my husband (or rather, along with my husband), my mom is my best friend. She always has been and she always will be. She has always been such a strong, godly example and a blessing in my life. She has always been a mom who puts God and her family first, and she has always been my confidant, mentor, and friend. I am so thankful for who she is, all she does, and I am proud of her many talents and abilities.

Happy Mother's Day, mama. I love you so stinkin' much.

"You fill my guts with love; I love you from the heart of my bottom"
-Hannah Montana ;)

Spring Break: Family, Friends, and the O-So-Lovely Beach

Now that I am married, I am learning the art of trading off holidays from my family to Taylor's and back again. Holidays were always really special in my house, so I wondered how being married would change things. Thankfully, my husband's family has welcomed me in from day one and both Thanksgiving and Easter with them were wonderful. I feel right at home and I really wish both our families could celebrate together.

Sunrise over Lake Junaluska

Pastor Edward preaching before sunrise.

In our "Sunday best" for sunrise :p

One cool thing this year, was that we were able to spend Easter Sunday with Taylor's family, and since Taylor had Spring break the week after, we were also able to go see my family at the beach the next day. Sunday though, we had a beautiful sunrise church service at Lake Junaluska, and then went to breakfast before going to our normal Sunday worship as well. I think I had about four cups of coffee by noon...ooops ;)

My grandmother-in-law's gorgeous garden

My sister-in-law gave me this plant and I put it in an old coffee tin.
I love how it turned out! Sorry for the blurry photo though.

After church, we headed over to Taylor's parent's house and had very yummy lunch with my in-laws, Taylor's grandmother, brother, brother's wife, their kids, and their friends. I really enjoy his family and am glad that their gatherings are close-knit like my family gatherings have always been.

The next morning, we headed out on our journey towards Ocean Isle Beach. I cannot tell you how excited I was to see my family, friends, and get my white self out to the beach! It had been far too long!

Snickers the Labrador 

Trigger the man-goat ;)

It was exciting to see mama's farm when we got to their house. It is continuously growing and she probably has between 70-100 chickens by now, along with two goats, some guineas, ducks, and piglets. I'm really excited for her and she does a great job with her animals. I am proud of all her hard work!

We spent the evening playing Mario Kart 8 with my brother and hanging out with my parents. My mom cooked a delicious meal. It was the most tender, melt in your mouth pork-roast you could ever have, with rice cooked in the roast's juices, and green beans. Taylor and I ate enough to feed the United States Army!

Unfortunately I felt horrible all day Tuesday. I think the pollen was so bad down there that my allergies just hit really hard, but I was miserable. We will skip that day. There was a lot of laying around and moaning...

Wednesday was our "Easter" meal with my family. Beforehand, Taylor and I went to the beach. It was perfect. It wasn't too hot, but I never got cold. The sun was bright and it wasn't overly windy. I was so glad to stick my toes into the water and lay out on the sandy beach.

Easter lunch was awesome. I had some quality time with my grandparents, as well as my parents, brother, Uncle, his new bride (yay!), and their kids. Taylor and I ate a lot again- of course ;)

I am so thankful for my family and that we were able to have this time with them. They are such a joy to have in my life and I am seriously blessed. And I am equally thankful that Taylor gets to share all this with me from now on. God has blessed me immeasurably!

Thursday was dubbed as "friend-day". Two of my four best friends from high school still live in the area so I try to make sure I get to see them when we are visiting. We started the day with me, mama, and Gracie having coffee together. Because coffee is important. Duh.

Around lunch time, my brother (Jason), Taylor and my friend Elise went to Wing and Fish Company. Afterwards, we dropped Jason off at home and headed over to Grace's pottery studio to surprise her. We ended up painting pottery together. I painted a dog bowl for Molly. I am so excited for Grace to mail it to me after she gets the glaze on it and everything.

Elise, Taylor and I went to the beach for a couple of hours after that. The weather was perfect again! I cannot believe my luck with the weather this trip. It was incredible! Elise's boyfriend came for a little hit and we hit the volleyball around before we headed out.

The next day was spent playing more Mario Kart and spending time with my parents, grandparents, and brother. It was a really nice, chill day. Oh, and we did go for a walk on the beach with my brother and dad, too! It was the first time in around eight years that my daddy had gone to the beach and I was really glad we all went. Thank you to Taylor, Jason, and daddy (all of whom are not huge beach lovers) for being good sports and indulging my beach-love!

Saturday morning was bittersweet. It was time to leave which is always sad, but we were excited to sleep in our own bed and see our fur-babies. Before we headed out I had coffee with mama and then I also had coffee with Meredith, who had just come in town the night before. It was so good to see her. I've missed all of my friends and family a lot.

But, reality eventually sets in and eventually Taylor had to get back to work. I love where we live, but I wish the beach and the mountains were smushed together into one big city. That way our family and most of our friends, and our two favorite places in the world would all be right at our finger-tips.....oh, my wishful thinking *sigh*

What did you do for Spring break? Do you have any traveling coming up soon? Comment below.

And happy Saturday!