Where to Find the Best Inexpensive Fall Decor

Autumn is on it's way! Are you looking to add to your Fall-decor collection, but you want to make sure your bank account stays in tact? Here are my top picks for where to find the best, inexpensive Fall decor pieces this season.

The Peculiar Treasure Turns 4 + Things I've loved This Year

I find it hard to believe, but my blog is officially four years old! When I started this blog, it was simply a place to write about my life, and I had no idea that blogging was it's own world of community, niches, and monetization. I didn't realize that I would end up finding my passion, and I sure as heck didn't know what I was doing. I just wanted to write without obligation, and without being graded (it was my senior year of college as an English major).

I rarely wrote anything at all for the blog. I would go months at a time without posting. That's not what I am counting as four years. The four years started when I realized I could make something of this little space on the internet. I still had no idea what I was doing (literally no idea!), but that was the start of something that would grow and become my career goal and my passion. So as bad as I was at blogging back then, I am so glad that I started a blog.

To celebrate the 4 year Blogiversary of The Peculiar Treasure, I am sharing my favorite things from the past year, both from my own blog and from around the internet! 

Growing In God

Over the past year, I feel like I have had a lot of great growing opportunities when it comes to my faith. I think the biggest part of that was the Hebrews Bible study I attended at my husband's seminary. This is where I learned Why We Can Come to God With Confidence, what the character of Jesus is (and why it matters), and how to live a life that is defined by God's promises. 

And though my growth was only a meager improvement, it still has helped me grow and learn things like How to Find and Use Your Spiritual Gifts, Why We Should Stop Being So Easily Pleased, and recognizing these 4 Things That Keep Christians From Growing. I have also learned The #1 Reason We Should Love Those Who Hurt Us, as well as 5 of the most Common Reasons Christians Stop Reading the Bible, and How Christians Should Handle Anger (even when we are furious). 

Blogging

When it comes to blogging, I've learned too many important things to count. I think the biggest lesson I learned over the past year though, was to settle into and be at peace with a blog that grows authentically, even if the growth is slower. I've learned to be at peace with my social media accounts, and to not feel the need to do things exactly as everyone else does them. I learned what I don't want to be as a blogger, and I learned how to be myself and better myself in the blogging world.

Ultimately, I learned (and am still learning) that if my blog isn't being written for the glory of God, then something is wrong. I learned that my dreams don't matter nearly as much as God's name being made great. Many times, those things intersect, but the latter is exponentially more important. 

Aside from my own blog, I also found a ton of people and posts worth checking out. So take a peek at those below!

My Favorite People and Posts From The Internet

When I Need to Laugh: Rhett & Link of Good Mythical Morning. These guys never fail to make me smile. You need to have their silliness in your life.


When I Need Encouragement: I recently heard Ruth Chou Simons on a podcast and absolutely loved what she had to say. I actually already followed her on Instagram but hadn't paid a ton of attention. But I have come to find that not only is her feed gorgeous, but almost every post is like a daily devotional. Incredibly encouraging, challenging, and full of truth. 

When I Want to Be Challenged In My Faith: I LOVE THIS LADY! Renee Young is such a sweet soul and I wish we lived near each other because I feel like we would be great friends. I love her Instagram posts so much. She isn't afraid to tell it like it is, with a heart that is so full of love. I always come away from her posts challenged and inspired.


When I Need a Reminder of WHY I Should Take Care of Myself: Marsha Apsley is not only a sweet blogger-friend of mine, she is also incredibly inspiring and encouraging when it comes to merging faith and fitness. She is so good at reminding us that our worth is in Jesus- not our weight, or our looks, or what we ate for dinner- but that's exactly why we should take care of our bodies, minds, and souls.

When I Need to Remember That Weight-Loss IS Possible: Lexi of Fat Girl Fed Up is so inspiring! She has lost 312 pounds over the last couple of years. She did it with diet and exercise- nothing else. I love following her on IG and being reminded that it is possible!

Thank You!

There are so many wonderful blogger-friends and creators out there on the internet who have helped me on this journey, but there's no way I can link to them all in this post. I am so thankful for the community of friends that blogging has brought me, and I am so appreciative of everyone who has helped, encouraged, and inspired me along the way (you know who you are 😉). Thanks, friends! You rock!

Dear Taylor: A Mushy-Gushy Letter to my Hubby for His Birthday

Dear Taylor,

Happy birthday, handsome! I hope today is amazing for you.

As your wife, I am particularly glad you were born. Our marriage would be a little tougher to maintain if you hadn't been. 😉

From God delivering you from a doctor who assumed your mom would want to abort you because of her age, to his leading us both to Montreat College, I'm so glad that God protected us, directed our paths, and caused them to cross.

You are the most patient person I have ever met. You are the quickest to forgive. The quickest to let things go.

You are hilarious. You make me laugh even when I really just want to be grumpy with you. Your dry, sarcastic sense of humor has resulted in more deep "belly laughs" than I can count.

When we first met, I thought theology was for people who wanted to think about God, but didn't really want a personal relationship with him. But in you I have seen how untrue that is. I've watched you change, grow, and deepen your relationship with God through theology, and that has been so fun to see.

You treat me with respect and love. You look at me like you love me. And you don't "vent" to other people about me when I am being obnoxious.

You let me know you are attracted to me, and you don't let my weight bother you.

You support my dreams even when they seem far-fetched.

Basically, you're amazing. I love you so much! I wish I showed it more, but I am thankful that you look past my flaws and love me anyway.

Thank you for your hard work. Working nearly full-time and going to seminary full-time for two years straight is no easy task. But you've done it with minimal complaining and a good attitude. I'm proud of you, thankful for you, and I appreciate you.

Happy 27th birthday, handsome! Thank you for choosing me and wanting a life with me. I look forward to spending a life's worth of birthdays with you!

Love,
Kristin

How to Host Your Own Pumpkin Party | Fall Pumpkin Party Ideas

Have you ever hosted your own pumpkin party? Fall is the perfect time to practice hospitality. Learn how you can host your own pumpkin party this Fall with these helpful tips and resources.

October Love, Goals, + Updates

Happy October, sweet friends! I'm really baffled that October is already here, but I am also thrilled. It's my all-time favorite month and I definitely think it should be celebrated! Like, maybe there's no school, no work, and no responsibilities all month. We'll all just spend October huddled around a bonfire with pumpkin coffee and apple bread. Because that's realistic, right? 😋

I could spend the rest of the month just posting about why I love October. And other than the fact that it would get pretty old for you, I would.
But since that's not going to work, I decided to do an October goals post, September updates, and some things I am loving for October- all wrapped up into one. You're welcome 😉

September Update

September has been a strange month for me. Very strange. I finished up a nanny job that I was contracted on through the Summer. I got a VA job that I worked for two weeks, but turned out not to be the best fit. I gained another client that has been an awesome fit.
Then, my hip and back injury (which left me bedridden for 5 days last year) acted up again and still hasn't settled down. It's not as bad as the last time that I had problems, but I have been doing a whole lot of laying in bed with a heating pad the past few weeks. I'm really hoping that the steroid shot I'll be getting next week will do the trick!

And to end September, we spent last weekend of the month in the mountains with our family, friends, and our church family. We were celebrating our home church's 10 year anniversary.

I really didn't have that many goals listed for September, and I met 3 out of 4 of them. Taylor and I actually did much better at adulting (i.e. being responsible people who clean, cook, and go to bed at a decent hour 😂), I was able to see baby E three times, and I finished Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire. Woot woot!

However, I did not get ahead on my blogging goals, because of the hip flare-up, which causes a lot of pain that gets worse when I try to sit down for long periods of time. I'm trying to find creative, practical ways to still get things done this month to make up for last month.

October Goals

Get Ahead On the Blog

I am desperately wanting to get ahead on my blog posts, VA work, and social media scheduling. For October, I'm just going to try to get at least three blog posts ahead and to revamp two posts with new images.

Workout Four Times Per Week

A while back, my grandparents let us borrow their stationary bike that has some pre-made workouts built in. We finally started using it recently and I think it's going to be a really good workout without murdering my hip. My goal is to do four workouts on the bike per week.

Focus On What Matters

Guys, I am so bad about focusing on the wrong things when it comes to my goals. I spend so much time participating in threads and worrying about numbers, that I neglect the most important parts of blogging: namely, crafting blog posts and newsletters.

It's really easy to get priorities turned upside in anything we set our hands to, so I'm sure it's not just me who struggles with that. But this month, I want to focus on getting it right. It's hard, and I cringe when I have to choose between growing my social media numbers and creating new content, but it's clear to me what matters most.

October Love

Apple Pumpkin Bread

I know I mentioned this apple pumpkin bread in my roundup post, but my sweet friend Gracie came to Charlotte and made this recipe again and it was even better than I remembered. Seriously, you need this bread in your life!

Blue Bloods

I love Blue Bloods, and season 8 just premiered a few days ago. The first episode of the season was heart-breaking, but I am so excited that it's back on. I might be a smidge addicted!

Birthdays

October is birthday month for me, for Taylor, and for several of my awesome friends. Unfortunately, October and these birthdays always seem to come and go before I have a chance to blink, but I still enjoy it thoroughly. I have no idea what I am doing for my birthday, but I think Taylor's parents are coming down for his. It'll be awesome.

Pumpkin Patches

Last year, going to a pumpkin patch was one of the highlights of my Fall. I went twice with baby E and it was so fun! This year, I am hoping that Taylor and I can go together.


What fun things are you looking forward to during the month of October? Did you do anything noteworthy in September? Comment below!

Decorating A Home To Create An Encouraging + Personalized Atmosphere

I received free product in exchange for my review. All opinions are my own.

Have you ever visited someone's house and just gotten an immediate sense of welcome and calm? Or felt like their home was yours?

Growing up, I heard a lot of that from my friends. They loved the smell of my house, the look of my house, and they loved getting to visit with my family and eat dinner with us. 

That was all my mom. She decorated beautifully, kept candles going, and always had something yummy in the oven. She welcomed people in and made them feel at home. And sure, my friends mostly loved us (not our stuff),  but there is still something to be said for home decor that creates a peaceful, encouraging, and pleasant environment.

As the granddaughter of an interior designer, I have really come to appreciate the art of choosing home decor that radiates the vibe I want to put off in my home. For me, I want to choose things that are personal, that are close to my heart, and that encourage me in my faith each day.

So today, I'm sharing a few ways I like to make my house feel inviting, peaceful, and like a reflection of who I am.

Handmade Pieces From Others

Many of my closest friends and some family members are very creative. We often give each other handmade gifts for birthday's and Christmas, and I love that about us! This year I have received a hand-painted coffee sign made from reclaimed wood, a hand-painted, framed, hymn art piece, and a distressed, wrought-iron cross. All of these gifts are gorgeous and things that I love having in my home. Not only are they lovely, but they also add a smile to my day when I think about the person who took the time to create each piece.

My Own Handmade Pieces

I can't paint or draw by any stretch of the imagination (it's bad, you guys!), but I do well with other crafts like making wreathes and candles. I have made a wreath for my front door for every season, and I love switching them out as the seasons change.

I love having a wreath on the door because it gives off a homey vibe before people ever step foot into the house. It gives an added touch of beauty and care, and sets a good first-impression.

I also love handmade wreaths because they tell a story. They are unique and show off pieces of the maker's personality that wouldn't be seen if they hadn't made it themselves.

Personal Touches

One thing that really makes a house feel like a home is pictures of loved-ones scattered throughout. Not only does it add a personalized touch, but I also find it encouraging to be able to look around and see photos of the people who love me well and support me.

Scripture Reminders

Just as an FYI, we did not paint our house. The people who lived here before us did 😂

One thing that is really important to me is to have scripture and Christ-centered messages around my home. Seeing them throughout the day serves as a great reminder and helps me stay focused.

I love scripture art. Having bible verses around my home can be a huge encouragement. I also love old hymns. Sometimes the lyrics are just so encouraging and perfect reminders of God's love and my desire to live for him.
So, when I was contacted by Aimee of Aimee Weaver Designs, I was thrilled!

Aimee and her husband make handmade, hand painted signs out of reclaimed barn wood. They make personalized pieces based on the customers request, and they also have pre-made signs with scripture, hymn lyrics, and encouraging quotes.

"We are passionate about creating beauty from yesterday’s treasures, from pieces of the past lying by the wayside. Our desire to redeem and restore includes using antique hardware, rustic hinges and original nails. Most of our reclaimed wood is found in old barns around the Lancaster County countryside." -Aimee

When I received my sign in the mail, I was immediately impressed. The piece that I chose is huge, very solid, and absolutely gorgeous! The wood is perfectly stained and restored, while still holding onto some of it's original character, and the lettering is beautiful. Even Taylor talked about how much he liked it, and he rarely says anything about home decor.

We absolutely love our sign. It is the perfect statement piece for our living room!

If you are interested in a sign from Aimee, seriously check out her website! The signs she and her hubby make are totally customizable. You can choose your own wording, size, and colors, so it fits into your space perfectly!

I love adding personal touches to my home, and choosing the right pieces can really add an encouraging and calm atmosphere. I love looking around my house and seeing all the awesome pieces that I've made myself, that friends and family have made for me, and that have encouraging and motivational quotes on them. 

Do you agree? How do you decorate your home? Do you like adding a lot of personal touches, or do you prefer to go with more standard, premade pieces? Comment below!

What I've Learned From Being A Nanny

Other than some time spent working in a local coffee shop, I have been a nanny since I graduated college in 2013. I never planned on being a nanny. I always thought I'd work at a newspaper, magazine, or something similar. However, I took a nanny job in August 2013 in an attempt to escape a part-time job I hated, and it ended up being a path I would be on for the following four years.

Nannying is a challenge. It has the ability to bring out my flaws, push my limits, and make me want to pull out my own hair. But it also brings about the sweet hugs and kisses from adorable little people, wonderful opportunities to share the love of Christ, and lots of fun memories.

There's a lot of things I've learned about myself and life from being a nanny, and today I decided to highlight a few of them.

My Patience Needs Work

I'm pretty sure most of you know this by now, but my patience is sub-par at best. I get frustrated by things that probably shouldn't frustrate me, and even though I don't let my anger take over outwardly, I often feel like I am going to blow a gasket on the inside. And there's nothing like taking care of a two year old to test your patience.
I have known for a while now that my patience needs some work, but as a nanny I am very aware that it needs a lot more work.

Sometimes the Little Things Are Big Things

On a more positive note, one thing being a nanny has taught me is that sometimes the little things end up being the big things. The willingness to run through the sprinklers even though I don't have a change of clothes. The choice to sing his favorite song for the 12,000th time. Or the kindness to growl like a dinosaur with him even though we've already been growling for 10 minutes. Those little things make Mr. T feel loved and let him know that he is cared for. When we've had a bad day the day before, when I come in the next morning he is usually glad to see me. He typically has forgotten the bad day and instead, he remembers the care I have chosen to give him.

When we take the time to participate and show kindness in the little things- to listen, pay attention, and play with them- we are investing in bigger ways than we know.

Sometimes I Just Want My Mommy Too

I'd be lying if I said that it was never frustrating for a kid to constantly ask where their mama is, but at the end of the day I totally understand. I want my mommy too, kid. Maybe if we both lay on the floor and cry together both of our moms will show up at the same time 😋

Eating Healthy Doesn't Have To Be Hard

Mr. T and his mom are vegan (minus eggs). This means that snacks and meals consist of things like hummus and carrots, edamame, and lots of fruit in order to get the nutrients that he needs.

Even though I am a big believer in meat remaining in a persons diet if it can be helped, I will totally admit that their lifestyle keeps junk food at bay and Mr. T doesn't feel like he is missing a thing. He loves the foods that his mom buys him and he eats it right up.

It just goes to show you, if there's no junk food in the house to eat, then you are bound to eat healthier options (and like it).

Everyone Is Different

Being a nanny to different kids over the years has allowed me to see that no one child is the same. Just because I am caring for a boy doesn't mean he will be anything like the last boy I cared for, and just because two little girls are the same age doesn't mean they will function at the same level.

I think most of us understand this when it comes to kids. But for whatever reason, when it comes to adults we expect everyone to be just like us, think just like us, agree with all of our quirks and preferences, and function on the exact same level that we do. But if kids don't work that way, then why do we expect adults to? Why do we adjust the way we do things depending on the kid, but when it comes to adults we ditch the grace that we would give to a child?

I'm not saying that adults should be allowed to act like a child without being confronted, but what I am saying is that if someone struggles in a particular area that we don't, or if we function differently than someone we work with, we should remember that just as every child needs the grace to grow and learn, so do adults. This is something that I struggle to remember, but it's certainly an important lesson.

Being a nanny is challenging, but it is also rewarding. It's nothing something that I want to do for the rest of my life (or for very much longer, for that matter), but it is a job that teaches me important lessons and that allows me to be a witness in the lives of little, impressionable people. It doesn't always feel like a blessing, but it is, and I am thankful for the lessons being a nanny has taught me.

5 Things Worth Loving This June

*This post contains affiliate links. As always, all opinions are my own. I only share products I love and/or believe you will love.

The fact that May came and went without giving us much of a chance to settle in has been reverberating around social media the past few days, and in a lot of ways, I felt that too. My beach trip and my visit from my friend both flew by so quickly- as fun things usually do. But I have to say, the other parts of May seemed to drag on.

June really holds some mixed emotions for me. I leave my job with my sweet baby E- and boy that's going to be hard, I start a new Summer job with a child I haven't met yet (his mom is really sweet though), and I will have to learn how to balance TPT with a new, busier, and more full schedule. I am nervous for all of those things, but I know that all things come for a season and have a purpose, I am going to try to take a little chill pill 😎

Plus, I can't really be too down about June. There really are a lot of great things happening and a lot to be excited about! And that's what I want to share with you today. So keep reading to find out what's worth loving in June!

30-Day HIIT and The Well and Fit Squad

I've mentioned Autumn of It's Autumn before, and I am sure I will mention her again! I love this girl! She's fun, quirky, encouraging, and inspiring. For the month of June, she has created the 30-Day HIIT Challenge, along with the Well and Fit Squad Facebook group for support and encouragement.
Now that I am pretty much back to normal from my sickness, I plan to implement this from here on out. I think you would really enjoy it too!
*It's not too late to sign up for the challenge!

Let's Get Moving Challenge

Another lovely woman that I've mentioned before is Marsha Apsley. She is incredibly sweet and genuine, has lived out both sides of this health journey, and is so inspiring when it comes to getting healthy and doing it for the right reasons.
Marsha and Autumn were on the same wave-length I guess because Marsha also created a June challenge. Marsha's Let's Get Moving Challenge is exactly what it sounds like: a challenge to get moving. This challenge is just about taking the steps to get active, even if it's only for 10 minutes a day. This isn't a bootcamp or a weightloss program, it's an encouragement to start somewhere, not be ashamed of starting small, and a reminder to lean on Christ through it all. Marsha also has a Facebook support group for the challenge and she takes the time to talk, walk, and pray with the group. She's awesome!
*It's not too late to sign up for her challenge either!

A Place Prepared

Have you guys ever heard of the blog The Hallway Initiative? My sweet, talented, and Jesus-loving friend, Julie, is the author and she just launched her first Ebook, A Place Prepared. As the virtual assistant who was fortunate enough to get to edit the book, I highly recommend it.
The book details some of the biggest and most challenging moments in Julie's life in order to show how God is present even in our most trying time. Julie's mission is to elaborate on the fact that even when God closes doors that we really wanted to be opened, we still have reason to praise Him in the hallway. Trust me, you need this book in your life!

Dale Partridge

Guys, I love hearing what Dale Partridge has to say. He has such great advice for young entrepreneurs, as well as some rockin' wisdom for Christians. If you don't like mega-blunt Facebook posts about faith and politics, his Facebook page may not be the place for you, but his books, webinars, and most of his blog posts are stellar for anyone looking to start, launch, or grow their business. He's 30 years old, makes 6-7 figures per year, and only works between 20-30 hours per week. Dale believes in working in a way that creates more time for loved ones and less unneeded stress. Talk about goals!!!
My copy of Dale's new book, Launch Your Dreams, just came in the mail and I cannot wait to start reading it!

Instagram

I have a post coming soon on my perspective on Instagram as a VA (virtual assistant), but until then I am sharing 10 Instagram accounts you are sure to love this June.

Chelsie | Hey There, Chelsie
Chelsie has beautiful photos, a lovely feed, and a positive attitude. What's not to love!?

Summer | Coffee with Summer
Despite the fact that I normally go for bright colors, Summer has one of my favorite feeds on Instagram. It's seriously so beautiful, light, airy, and perfectly curated. It's also an encouraging place to be!

Shannon | Salty Wanders
Love awesome adventures, unique travel spots, and beautiful photography? Shannon's feed is the place for you! She has some of the coolest excursions!

Amanda | Blissful Gal
Like beauty, fashion, coffee, and pops of color? Look no further than Amanda! Her feed is lovely and so is she!

Evi | Mon Fig
Encouraging, stylish, sweet, and fun- that's Evi! I love this girl and I think you will too. For fashion, mom-life, fun travels, and encouragement, follow Evi!

Kristin | The Blush Blonde
Even if we set aside the fact that this girl spells her name the right way (and us Kristins have to stick together! 😋), Kristin's account is a great place to be. She has a love for pink, pretty things, and beauty. I also really enjoy getting to know her more in her captions and seeing her health journey unfold as she fights against chronic illness.

Meredith Staggers | Cake and Confetti
Disclaimer, I just started following Meredith a few days ago but holy mole', she is just that noteworthy. Her photos are beautiful, fun, and just make me smile! If you like bright colors and fun things, this is the place for you!

Rachel Kaly | Sweet Simple Living 
Rachel is another person I just started following, but her feed is gorgeous, full of coffee mugs and lovely things, and she really just stood out to me (as far as first impressions go).  I think you will love her feed too!

Rachel Ritlop of The Confused Millennial
I love this sweet blog friend of mine. Honestly, she's been rocking IG for quite some time now, but she has recently improved her photography and her feed is completely #goals. Not to mention she has a lot of great business, blogging, and adulting tips for you. Follow her.


As you can see, there is so, so much to love in the month of June. So whether everything is feeling blah, exciting, stressful, happy, or sad, be determined to find something that makes you happy and participate. It doesn't have to be anything I suggested (though I do think you'll love at least some of them), but just find something that you are loving and enjoy it. Do something that will grow you as a person, will encourage you, and will just plain make you feel good and you are sure to love June!

Nothing But Fun Summer Playlist

When Summer rolls around, I want four things: to feel the sun on my skin, to lay on and swim at the beach, to drive with the windows down, and to sing loud to fun music.

Sun is inevitable. Honestly, by the time we are halfway through Summer, I'm going to probably end up complaining. It just gets so hot here. But for now, I am happy that the sun is bringing out my freckles and hints of red in my auburn hair.

The beach is something I crave the second it gets warm enough to be in the water. You don't have to do much convincing to get me to take a trip to the small beach town I grew up in. It makes my heart so happy!

I really don't even mind the drive down to the coast most of the time, because a large portion of it is on back, country roads, or highways that have a similar feel. I roll the windows down, prop my arm on the window sill, and crank up the music.

This coming week, I am planning on going to the beach to visit my friends, so the beach, the sun, and a long drive with the windows down will be covered. But for a trip like this, good music is a must. So today, I am sharing a fun playlist that you can listen to whether you are road-trippin' it up like me, or are simply cleaning the house. Either way, it's a great, Summer pick-me-up!

I like sharing playlists with you because I want to 1.) give you something fun to dance around to, and 2.) I want to help you find your new favorite song. So this playlist is a combination of well-known favorites, and some lesser-known songs I think you'll like.

My favorites include La Bicicleta, Jackie and Wilson, and Sing. I hope you love these, and I'd love it if you'd follow the playlist on Spotify if you do.





What are your favorite songs on the playlist? Did you find something new that you love? Comment below!

And if you want to read more posts about Summer, I'm teaming up today with some awesome ladies. So click the links below to check out their Summer posts too.

Summer Cookout Party- Curbside Overhaul

The Easiest Plants For Kids to Grow- Little Sprouts Learning

Looking Back at School Year Reflections- Everchange Productions

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?

The Most Embarrasing Stories Ever

Have you ever done something so dumb or so naive that, after the deed was done, you wanted to crawl into a hole and stay there a while? I feel like everyone has experienced that at some point in their lives. We all do really embarrassing things- I know I have.

What's funny is, if the moment was a long time ago, you probably don't think about it anymore. But if you are like me, every once in a while, something will trigger the memory and you find yourself blushing all over again.

I'm really appreciative of these sorts of stories though. Once I get over the cringe-worthy feelings of embarrassment, I realize that these stories serve to make me (and others) laugh. And since I love making others laugh, and I love when people have a smile on their face, I decided to share one of my embarrassing moments, and I asked a few other bloggers to do the same.

The point of this post is to make you smile and make your day one that is filled with chuckles. So enjoy the cringyness!

My Story- Balls

When I was in fourth grade, I had a crush on a kid named Daniel. Daniel was the kid that every little fourth grade girl thought was a hot, steamy, hunk-of-burnin'-love. Ya know the kind. Every class has one. And every class also has an awkward kid or two...I was one of them.

One day while we were all at recess, I was at the basketball court when Daniel and his friend came walking in my direction. They were discussing how many balls they had. "I have two balls", I heard. So, being the naive little girl I was, and wanting so badly to impress Daniel, I decided I would join in on the conversation: "I have four balls at home!", I said excitedly. The boys burst out into laughter and then went on their merry way. I wasn't sure what was so funny- I really did have four basketballs in the storage closet at home...

Is This Mud?

When I was growing up, my family used to visit my Aunt and Uncle's dairy farm in Southern Michigan.  I have fond memories of driving through corn fields and taking deep breaths of fresh, country air. On one particular visit, my cousins and I had lots of fun jumping on the trampoline of a family friend that lived right across from where many of the cows lived. For one reason or another, we decided to run across the street to visit the cows and feed them some grain.  

While the older boys ran as fast as they could across the street, I did everything I could to keep my little legs and arms pumping as fast as I could in order to catch up. They were older and faster and stronger, and I so desperately wanted to fit in.  When I finally caught up to them, the baying of cows and the smell of manure thick in the air, I saw that they were making a game jumping over what looked like strips of mud. In a desperate attempt to join in, I did my darndest to jump over the first set of "mud strips". Alas, I fell right smack dab in the middle of it. I remember looking down at my body firmly planted in what I was hoping was mud, and crying out desperately, "This is mud, right?!" amidst my cousins pointing and laughter, they replied, "NOPE! It's cow manure!" 

All I remember doing is crying and wailing over the fact that I literally landed myself in a pile of... cow crap. As a result, I had to bathe in the industrial sink in the barn and borrow a set of clothes from the family friend. It was a long, stinky, embarrassing day in the hot summer sun that my family still likes to bring up when we're all together! 

Vanessa, Tapestry Chronicles

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The Kale Salad of Doom

You know when you have an embarrassing moment and don’t want anyone to know about it, well this isn’t one of those times. See, I truly don’t want this to happen to you, because I feel like you really may be one seemingly good decision away from this disastrous and mortifying event.  

You are trying to eat healthy and decide that instead of the delicious waffle fries at Chick-fil-a, you are going to take a chance on the superfood kale side salad.  After all, you had a donut for breakfast, and you need something fresh.  So you eat the the superfood kale salad, and it is ridiculously delcious.  You have a fun afternoon planned at the children’s museum of Raliegh while your husband is in class at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary.  You make the 40 minute drive to Raleigh and your kiddos are sleeping in the backseat.  You don’t wake them, and you relish the few minutes of quite alone in your car you have just parked on the third floor of a parking garage.  Your one month old daughter wakes up and you decide to nurse her in the front seat while your son continues to sleep.  And then, something doesn’t feel right.  You’re not too worried because as a mom you are the champion of bladder and bowel control.  So just in case you get the stroller out and put the baby carrier on.  But now you are standing outside your SUV’s hatch and the gravity seems to be a good match for your tumultuous insides.  You actually start to panic and say a prayer along the lines of “God, please let me find bathroom in time.”  You see a total stranger two cars away and genuinely tell yourself that it’s a good idea that the stranger stay with your kids while you sprint to a bathroom.  But you don’t ask, because you think you can make it to the bathroom.  Your son is finally awake, and he is screaming.  In fact, both kids are screaming.  Your insides are scremaing.  You don’t know what to do so you make a break for it.  You snatch your son out of his carseat and put him in the stroller so fast, you probably have just set some sort of mothering record.  But you have to wear your daughter, so you turn to put her on your chest and your worst nightmare has just started.  You think, “Maybe it is just a tiny bit of gas and once it comes out, I will feel better and be able to make it to the bathroom.”  But it’s not gas.  And you can’t make it to the bathroom.  And now you are standing there, in a parking garage with a screaming toddler in a stroller and a screaming baby in the front seat, and your insides collecting in your favorite pair of jeans.  Replaying the scene in Bridesmaids where Lillian crosses the street in a wedding dress.  “It’s happening."  

So what now?  

Well, you’re not just a mom.  You’re a prepared mom.  You have an extra pair of pants, underwear, baby wipes, trash bags, lysol wipes, and no more dignity left to lose, so you waddle over to your son, feeling like he looks in a saggy diaper, and you just put him back in the car.  He is still screaming bloody murder, because he doesn’t know that his mom ate enough fiber in that side salad to feed a small nation and has just crapped herself in a parking garage.  You waddle to the front of your car, scoping out bystanders and vehicles passing by, not daring to make eye contact but enough glimpse to know they aren’t looking at you.  You take off your pants, and well, there is no saving them so you put them in your grocery sack.  A quick funeral for your favorite jeans.  Because you lost your dignity from a side salad, you might as well use the entire pack of baby wipes and lysol wipes to clean yourself.  You double bag the evidence. You are still talking out loud to  your children since the car doors are open, and you reassure them that they are okay and that mommy is just “folding up the stroller and cleaning up your mess.”  You change into your other undies and pants.  You put your son back in the stroller.  You strap on your daughter.  You shut the car doors.  You lock the car. And you make your way to the elevator, dropping the soiled bag into the trash before you leave the parking garage.  Nothing has happened.  You walk to the museum and text your husband, “I crapped my pants LOL".  You laugh, because what else can you do.

See, I don’t want this event to happen to you.  So that is why I am giving you this heads up, if you eat the kale superfood side salad, just be near a bathroom within the hour.  Not that I know any of this from experience or anything, but just trust me. 

Renee- Mulling Over My Morning Coffee

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Checking the Cervix

When I was in labor for my middle son, my sister came by for a little while. I didn't mind because labor had taken almost 12 hours by the time she got there and to be completely honest...I was bored. Cat, a little over 18, and her friend D were hanging out with my best friend, my husband and I when the midwife came in. The midwife did all the checks and then said quite pointedly to Cat and her friend "I'm checking her cervix now...do you want to leave?"

Well my poor baby sister had no idea what that meant and apparently thought you could check a cervix...I'm not even sure she knew what the cervix was! Anyway, D and Cat both insisted they were fine to stay and up went my legs into the stir-up and UP went the blanket that had been covering my lady parts...and down went both their faces! To this day when I see D her face goes bright red and she avoids all eye contact. And Cat will insist that she is my favorite because she has seen it ALL. 

At least now they know to leave the room in the event of  cervix check?

Lauren- Bellows in the Berkshires

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Well friends, that's it for today. I hope these stories gave you a good laugh, brought a smile to your face, and maybe made you realize that it isn't just you- everyone in the world has at least one weird, embarrassing moment (but they probably have a lot more than one) 😉

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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!