I completely realize that I have failed to give proper attention here the last four (four?!) months, but I wanted to wait until I was in our new house to write a new post. That hasn't happened yet (It will!) but I felt impressed to write today. So I am.
Some days I shamelessly allow myself to get too stressed over things that I cannot control. I don't know why I do it, but it happens more than I would like. Especially recently. Ben is so wise though, I don't know what I would do without him when I go off on my little selfish tangents.
Today I jotted down things that I love. In no particular order, just things that make life so much more wonderful.
. husband and his way with words
. ruby and her big head
. my dad's hot apple cider
. the smell of old books
. love letters
. grace (endless amounts of it)
. scratchy records
. fries ( I wish I didn't love them so)
. compliments (giving and receiving)
. cold weather
. sigur ros
. discussing baby names
. sing a longs
. naps
I'm thankful for these things. I really am pretty blessed, even when I think otherwise. God is so thoughtful to allow me to learn patience in its truest form these last couple of months. I know He will use this experience later on for His glory, and I'm happy that I can be apart.
I hope you are able to reflect on lovely things this evening, too.
Tuesday, December 27, 2011
Saturday, September 24, 2011
Retro Active
I am a big fan of vintage & retro. With that said I am ecstatic that these two things are bursting this fall. Banana Republic has an amazing Mad Men collection full of tea length dresses and drool worthy trench coats, but also comes with somewhat of a hefty price tag. These looks can certainly be attainable while thrifting and/or hitting up your grandma's closet, but if you want the look and don't feel like digging through thrift store bins or depleting your bank account then may I introduce the fall collection at Forever 21. Same great style but extremely budget friendly! I mean and who doesn't love a good deal?
Inspiration:
Inspiration:
These looks are what my dreams are made of...
All images taken from forever21.com
Wednesday, September 14, 2011
Teachable moments
I cannot comprehend the love of God. In my humanness I try to compare it to the love I have for my husband, because it is the deepest love I have and continue to experience, but even that's no comparison. I fully believe that love is an action word and not just a feeling, but the love of God is so much more extravagant than anything else. I don't have to work for it, I don't have to date it and see if it's lasting; it's poured on me everyday no matter what I've done the day before.
This blows my mind. It really does.
Ben & I are in a teachable moment. We are experiencing our first year of marriage and all of the new value that it brings. I love our story. It's wrapped up in God's perfect timing and will and sometimes I can't believe that I was picked to be Ben's wife. It's wonderful.
At the beginning of this year we decided to start looking for our first home.
It has been an extremely raw and emotional experience.
We have been out of a place of our own for four months now. We found what we thought was a perfect place at the beginning of June. One week before we were set to close we found out that it had fallen through. We were staying at my parents house during that time and we had no idea what we were going to do. I remember searching for houses one Sunday evening and feeling so hopeless. We prayed together, believing that God was in the midst of this process and that He would open doors for us.
That following Thursday we offered on our perfect home. We felt peace.
I woke up that same night with a comfort in my soul that the Lord was ordering our steps and that everything would work out.
Two weeks before we were scheduled to close we hit a major hault.
I don't know if I have ever cried so much in my life. I felt confusion and anger and disbelief. I wondered if I had really heard the voice of the Lord. I felt very inadequate.
So here we are, almost a month later with no house or set time frame of when we will have our house or if it's even going to happen at all, but we have God's love. His grace has been with us during our confusion and sadness. I know there's a reason for it. I know we're learning patience & humbleness. I know He's writing a bigger story. I know He's in control... sometimes that's all I know. But that's enough.
I've had moments of doubt, but i'm quickly reassured that no matter what happens, He is with us. I know wanting a house seems trivial, when there's so many needs far more desperate than this, but it's significant to us and I know that God cares.
I want to be able to say that I didn't waste away this moment, but that I sought God everyday, and His grace met me where I am.
That's where we are.
Technically homeless, staying with my in laws, seeking Christ with everything we have in us.
Hebrews 12:28
"Since we are receiving a kingdom that is unshakable, let us be thankful and please God by worshipping him with holy fear and awe."
This blows my mind. It really does.
Ben & I are in a teachable moment. We are experiencing our first year of marriage and all of the new value that it brings. I love our story. It's wrapped up in God's perfect timing and will and sometimes I can't believe that I was picked to be Ben's wife. It's wonderful.
At the beginning of this year we decided to start looking for our first home.
It has been an extremely raw and emotional experience.
We have been out of a place of our own for four months now. We found what we thought was a perfect place at the beginning of June. One week before we were set to close we found out that it had fallen through. We were staying at my parents house during that time and we had no idea what we were going to do. I remember searching for houses one Sunday evening and feeling so hopeless. We prayed together, believing that God was in the midst of this process and that He would open doors for us.
That following Thursday we offered on our perfect home. We felt peace.
I woke up that same night with a comfort in my soul that the Lord was ordering our steps and that everything would work out.
Two weeks before we were scheduled to close we hit a major hault.
I don't know if I have ever cried so much in my life. I felt confusion and anger and disbelief. I wondered if I had really heard the voice of the Lord. I felt very inadequate.
So here we are, almost a month later with no house or set time frame of when we will have our house or if it's even going to happen at all, but we have God's love. His grace has been with us during our confusion and sadness. I know there's a reason for it. I know we're learning patience & humbleness. I know He's writing a bigger story. I know He's in control... sometimes that's all I know. But that's enough.
I've had moments of doubt, but i'm quickly reassured that no matter what happens, He is with us. I know wanting a house seems trivial, when there's so many needs far more desperate than this, but it's significant to us and I know that God cares.
I want to be able to say that I didn't waste away this moment, but that I sought God everyday, and His grace met me where I am.
That's where we are.
Technically homeless, staying with my in laws, seeking Christ with everything we have in us.
Hebrews 12:28
"Since we are receiving a kingdom that is unshakable, let us be thankful and please God by worshipping him with holy fear and awe."
Monday, September 12, 2011
My fitness Monday: comfortable.
"I forget that in order to really want to go, something has to happen to make me want to leave where I am."
-Beth Moore
I was reading one of Beth Moore's books yesterday and when I read that line it really spoke to me about health & fitness. Of course, I believe that it can be applied to a lot of day to day issues, but it spoke specifically regarding my journey to better my health. I have the tendency to rest on complacency and comfortability. The Lord is graciously working through, what I feel, are problem areas in my life. I never want to grow complacent with my life. I always want to dream bigger, work harder, and be passionate in loving life. I was entrusted with a body and I never want to take that for granted. I'm so grateful that I don't have to stay the way that I am, but that I'm offered fresh, new beginnings in Christ.
Everyday.
-Beth Moore
I was reading one of Beth Moore's books yesterday and when I read that line it really spoke to me about health & fitness. Of course, I believe that it can be applied to a lot of day to day issues, but it spoke specifically regarding my journey to better my health. I have the tendency to rest on complacency and comfortability. The Lord is graciously working through, what I feel, are problem areas in my life. I never want to grow complacent with my life. I always want to dream bigger, work harder, and be passionate in loving life. I was entrusted with a body and I never want to take that for granted. I'm so grateful that I don't have to stay the way that I am, but that I'm offered fresh, new beginnings in Christ.
Everyday.
Monday, September 5, 2011
Bare Necessities
My sister and her family visited town last weekend and Andrea and I got a little chance to go shopping saturday morning. She has recently lost quite a bit of weight and needed new clothes for her new body, and was basically starting her closet from scratch since she is a couple sizes smaller than what she was. Therefore, she was my first client! I helped her pick out flattering pieces that are necessities for a woman's closet. My sister is the complete opposite of me, fashionably speaking. She loves clean lines, structure, and matching, so it was a fun challenge for me to pick out pops of 'my style' with some structure.
Our shopping spree got me thinking, what does every woman need in her closet? So I jotted down 7 things I feel are bare necessities for every woman, no matter what her style is.
1. Black pants
- a nice, tailored pair of basic black pants that fit well! Black pants are everywhere so you don't have to spend a fortune, but make sure that the material is durable and will hold up over a long period of time.
2. LBD/ LWD (little black dress/little white dress)
- nice enough to wear to work, but can be dressed up with accessories for evening wear.
3. Blouses
- I believe you really only need 5 or 6 blouses to survive. The key to this is buying different arm lengths, material, patterns so that you can mix and match with pants or skirts that you already have to create a new look.
4. Cardigans
- wear them over a blouse, a dress, or buttoned up with a pair of pants, It's the perfect piece for a year long look.
5. Pencil Skirt
- I would choose a black or grey color so that it is more versatile, but this little item is the answer to a lot of my 'what should I wear today' questions.
6. Boots
- I can't say enough about a good pair of boots. I realize that we southerners only really have about 4 good months to wear these, but it is worth the investment! Boots go with dresses, skirts, pants, leggings, jeans... the possibilities are endless.
7. Jeans
- No matter what the fit (skinny, boot cut, flare, trouser) every girl needs a good pair of jeans.
If you're starting from scratch or re-expanding your wardrobe, I suggest looking into a few of these key essentials that will never leave you standing in front of your closet aimlessly looking at your clothes.
This sums it all up:
http://www.anntaylor.com/ann/outfit/outfit%3Acat50008/ANN-Must-Have-Outfits/cat50008?supCat=cata00002
Happy Labor Day!
Our shopping spree got me thinking, what does every woman need in her closet? So I jotted down 7 things I feel are bare necessities for every woman, no matter what her style is.
1. Black pants
- a nice, tailored pair of basic black pants that fit well! Black pants are everywhere so you don't have to spend a fortune, but make sure that the material is durable and will hold up over a long period of time.
2. LBD/ LWD (little black dress/little white dress)
- nice enough to wear to work, but can be dressed up with accessories for evening wear.
3. Blouses
- I believe you really only need 5 or 6 blouses to survive. The key to this is buying different arm lengths, material, patterns so that you can mix and match with pants or skirts that you already have to create a new look.
4. Cardigans
- wear them over a blouse, a dress, or buttoned up with a pair of pants, It's the perfect piece for a year long look.
5. Pencil Skirt
- I would choose a black or grey color so that it is more versatile, but this little item is the answer to a lot of my 'what should I wear today' questions.
6. Boots
- I can't say enough about a good pair of boots. I realize that we southerners only really have about 4 good months to wear these, but it is worth the investment! Boots go with dresses, skirts, pants, leggings, jeans... the possibilities are endless.
7. Jeans
- No matter what the fit (skinny, boot cut, flare, trouser) every girl needs a good pair of jeans.
If you're starting from scratch or re-expanding your wardrobe, I suggest looking into a few of these key essentials that will never leave you standing in front of your closet aimlessly looking at your clothes.
This sums it all up:
http://www.anntaylor.com/ann/outfit/outfit%3Acat50008/ANN-Must-Have-Outfits/cat50008?supCat=cata00002
Happy Labor Day!
Monday, August 29, 2011
My Fitness Monday: perseverance
Persevere. That word has insurmountable feelings accompanied with it. Don't we all want to persevere in whatever we may face on earth? I do. Christ died for me, to bring victory over EVERY intricate detail in my life. That's a reason to persevere.
I ran for ten straight minutes today. That number doesn't seem like a whole lot, but when I started I could barely run for two minutes.
I ran for ten minutes today.
As I'm continuing to read Made to Crave, I'm being challenged in my spirit. We were created with a great desire to crave. The enemy likes to use whatever he can (whatever we'll give over to him) to twist our deepest desire that craves God into anything that will detour that craving. For a lot of us, we've craved food. Delicious, sugary, salty, unhealthy food.
I am realizing that nothing will satisfy my natural craving for God, but God.
Everyday brings new struggles, but along with that an endless supply of grace.
I'm attaching a link from a challenge from the Made to Crave website that I really connected with.
http://madetocrave.org/2011/02/chocolate-is-my-comfort-and-deliverer-dacmic/
I ran for ten straight minutes today. That number doesn't seem like a whole lot, but when I started I could barely run for two minutes.
I ran for ten minutes today.
As I'm continuing to read Made to Crave, I'm being challenged in my spirit. We were created with a great desire to crave. The enemy likes to use whatever he can (whatever we'll give over to him) to twist our deepest desire that craves God into anything that will detour that craving. For a lot of us, we've craved food. Delicious, sugary, salty, unhealthy food.
I am realizing that nothing will satisfy my natural craving for God, but God.
Everyday brings new struggles, but along with that an endless supply of grace.
I'm attaching a link from a challenge from the Made to Crave website that I really connected with.
http://madetocrave.org/2011/02/chocolate-is-my-comfort-and-deliverer-dacmic/
Friday, August 26, 2011
upcoming & ongoing...
I had a friend recently text and ask me if something was coming back in style, and it spurred a new post.
What's in style?
Fortunately, my friend natalie already has great style. But many ladies don't know what to wear or what will look good on them. I can help!
The thing that I find most important is being yourself... sometimes that can land you a spot on what not to wear if cat t-shirts are your thing... but always stay true to yourself. You will never feel beautiful on the outside if you aren't comfortable with yourself on the inside. I am most comfortable when i'm pushing the envelope; wearing mix-matched patterns and colors, but that's certainly not for everyone. So here's my trend alert for what's hot now!
What's in style?
Fortunately, my friend natalie already has great style. But many ladies don't know what to wear or what will look good on them. I can help!
The thing that I find most important is being yourself... sometimes that can land you a spot on what not to wear if cat t-shirts are your thing... but always stay true to yourself. You will never feel beautiful on the outside if you aren't comfortable with yourself on the inside. I am most comfortable when i'm pushing the envelope; wearing mix-matched patterns and colors, but that's certainly not for everyone. So here's my trend alert for what's hot now!
- Orange- this color is huge right now! In every hue too: burnt, bright, and muted.
- maxi dresses- this trend has been around for a while now, but I don't see it going away anytime soon! They are perfect for anyday, any occasion. You can dress them up with heels and accessories or throw your hair in a bun, put one on and slide on some sandals. They are extremely versatile!
- lace minis- I love lace, so I am pretty pumped that these are around. If your tall like me, then you have to be resourceful and pair this with stockings or pants, but anyone can pull this look off!
- booties- I can't say enough about these. Wear them with shorts, wear them with pants, wear them with dresses... wear them over your feetie pajamas, ok maybe that's too much.
- leopard print- it's everywhere! pumps, nails, jackets, bracelets. It's the perfect accessory for almost any outfit!
- long skirts- flowy, wonderful, goodness. If you find one with pleats, count yourself blessed.
- High-waisted glory- call me granny, but i'm obsessed with anything high-waisted! The awesome thing about this trend is going to goodwill and buying a pair of high-waisted pants from the 90's for $6. You just can't beat that...
This is just a small preview of the amazing styles going on right now. It's a beautiful, beautiful season...
Happy weekend!
Monday, August 22, 2011
My Fitness Monday: My Birthday!
I'm just gonna go ahead and be honest- it's my birthday and there is a very high chance that I will be consuming something sweet today...
I'll keep this short, but I started reading the BEST book on being healthy physically and spiritually:
I will be focusing more on what I learn from this book as I continue to read it. I'm excited about partnering with my good friend, Devan on this journey. We plan on reading this together and keeping each other accountable. I highly reccomend this book! It's absoultely changing my entire concept on diet and weightloss. It's so much more than being skinny- it's all about what will make us worship our creator better!
Keep staying healthy!
(I'll be sure to apologize next week for what's going down today)
I'll keep this short, but I started reading the BEST book on being healthy physically and spiritually:
I will be focusing more on what I learn from this book as I continue to read it. I'm excited about partnering with my good friend, Devan on this journey. We plan on reading this together and keeping each other accountable. I highly reccomend this book! It's absoultely changing my entire concept on diet and weightloss. It's so much more than being skinny- it's all about what will make us worship our creator better!
Keep staying healthy!
(I'll be sure to apologize next week for what's going down today)
Saturday, August 20, 2011
Reflection
I actually did finish my challenge last week. Ben & I went out thursday evening when I got home from work and just as he began to start capturing my outfit, his camera died. And because we are basically living out of a suitcase right now, we don't have the charger. However, all is not lost as I enjoyed creating new outfits out of the same ol' clothes that I already have. I'll try to do this more often...
This week has been one for the books. Do you ever have one of those weeks where nothing is going right and it feels like your life is falling apart? That was my week.
I don't know what the future holds right now, but I do know that God is extending compassion and grace that only He can give.
That's the really amazing part about life. We can face such rejection and trials that leave us feeling completely inadequate and hopeless. But God...
He can revive our broken hearts. He can restore our mind. He can rebuild our lives! Completely! He's proven Himself faithful to me over and over. I can't help but bless Him in the midst of everything bad around me, because I know He is good and loving and in complete control of my life.
There is purpose in the bad and I'm choosing to surrender and say, this isn't about me. This is your show, and I just want to be on board with whatever it is that your going to do.
I'm so thankful that God is using this time to speak to mine & ben's hearts. I want our marriage to glorify God and I feel like it's shown most when we experience hurt, and we're still able to grow closer with each other.
All I know right now is God is in control. And that's really all I need to know...
This week has been one for the books. Do you ever have one of those weeks where nothing is going right and it feels like your life is falling apart? That was my week.
I don't know what the future holds right now, but I do know that God is extending compassion and grace that only He can give.
That's the really amazing part about life. We can face such rejection and trials that leave us feeling completely inadequate and hopeless. But God...
He can revive our broken hearts. He can restore our mind. He can rebuild our lives! Completely! He's proven Himself faithful to me over and over. I can't help but bless Him in the midst of everything bad around me, because I know He is good and loving and in complete control of my life.
There is purpose in the bad and I'm choosing to surrender and say, this isn't about me. This is your show, and I just want to be on board with whatever it is that your going to do.
I'm so thankful that God is using this time to speak to mine & ben's hearts. I want our marriage to glorify God and I feel like it's shown most when we experience hurt, and we're still able to grow closer with each other.
All I know right now is God is in control. And that's really all I need to know...
Thursday, August 11, 2011
blog lovin
I'm now on blog lovin!
<a href="http://www.bloglovin.com/blog/2806124/willow-and-gray?claim=nqs8ve5xevp">Follow my blog with Bloglovin</a>
...I'll post pics of my thursday outfit later on.
<a href="http://www.bloglovin.com/blog/2806124/willow-and-gray?claim=nqs8ve5xevp">Follow my blog with Bloglovin</a>
...I'll post pics of my thursday outfit later on.
Wednesday, August 10, 2011
Tuesday's gray and Wednesday too...
I can't wait to close on our house. Literally. I feel like the end of August will never come! So to pass time quickly I decided to begin a new challenge this week. I need things to look forward to, and this has been very exciting! But it is only wednesday...(debbie downer)
The Challenge:
Wear a new outfit everyday, without buying a single thing.
I often find myself stuck in this rut where I am constantly saying (complaining), "I have nothing to wear!!!" That is usually followed by a pout or a hysterical cry, because i'm a lady, and the hope that my husband will comfort me by saying "let's go buy you a new wardrobe". That hasn't happened yet, so I'll stick with this challenge to stay out of such rut. I'm just piecing together items that I already own and pairing them to create a new outfit.
So here is my tuesday and wednesday outfits: (monday will come later- nobody likes mondays anyway right?)
Now for the rest of the week...
*Thanks to my wonderful husband for the amazing pictures. Is there anything you can't do?
The Challenge:
Wear a new outfit everyday, without buying a single thing.
I often find myself stuck in this rut where I am constantly saying (
So here is my tuesday and wednesday outfits: (monday will come later- nobody likes mondays anyway right?)
skirt: urban outfitters
shirt: forever 21
leggings: target
mustache ring: gifted
skirt: anthropologie
shirt: forever 21
shoes: target
belt: gap
Now for the rest of the week...
*Thanks to my wonderful husband for the amazing pictures. Is there anything you can't do?
Monday, August 8, 2011
My Fitness Monday: making time
It's been a crazy couple of weeks- so much so that is has been nearly impossible to find time to excercise. We've been back and forth at my parents house, ben's parents house, hospitals, school, and work. I'm ready to get back in the routine of working out every night. I've noticed it really affects, not only my physique when I have to pause working out, but also my mental state. Running and walking at night clears my mind of all the worries and stress of the day. Sometimes I use that time as prayer time which is wonderful, but ben and I have also had some incredible talks as we are able to express our hearts in a natural environment. It really had become my favorite part of the day. Lately, I've had conversations with several people who always say they don't have time to work out and sometimes that is honestly the case, but it's one of those things that you have to declare in your mind that you are going to make time for. There are several ways you could fit in a workout in your day: wake up earlier and get a jog in; bring clothes with you to work/school and hit the gym right after; cut back on t.v. and use that time to excercise, etc. Anything is better than nothing! I hope I continue to be dedicated at striving to be healthy, and I know life will throw things my way that I cannot control, but I can use those times to control what I consume and when I go to bed, because those factors are just as important to stay healthy.
I'm going to one of the local 5k parks tomorrow to see what I can do-- I'll update on that next week!
I'm going to one of the local 5k parks tomorrow to see what I can do-- I'll update on that next week!
Tuesday, August 2, 2011
Oh August,
What a beautiful month. I am extremely excited about this August for several reasons; one of those reasons being it's my birthday month! I love birthdays and I feel like I need more than one day to celebrate, so I celebrate the whole month. I realize that's overkill, but let me have my month. I'll give you yours...
Another major reason i'm excited about August is because we close on our dream home on the 29th!!! I can't believe it. Buying a house has definitely been a frustrating, emotional, crazy time in our life, but I could not be happier with the home we're getting. It's perfect! See below:
Another major reason i'm excited about August is because we close on our dream home on the 29th!!! I can't believe it. Buying a house has definitely been a frustrating, emotional, crazy time in our life, but I could not be happier with the home we're getting. It's perfect! See below:
August may be the last full month of summer, but there's still plenty of time to wear flowy tunics, rompers, gladiator sandals, and straw fedora's. That's good too, because I'm not ready for summer fashion to end. In fact, I want to buy a lot of summer attire for my birthday, but I know if I do that I have fall lurking around the corner... and there it is- the great dillema- what season to buy for. So, my advice is to buy pieces that are versatile. Such as, a sundress that can be worn in the fall with boots and a cardigan, or shorts that can be worn with tights underneath when the weather gets colder. Even though I would love to be able to afford a new wardrobe every season, I'm not a celebrity, so that's probably not going to happen. And that's okay. I'm learning more and more to be thrifty, and create a whole new wardrobe out of the clothes that I already own. It's so important to me to let my creativity be shown through my fashion, and I get to do that by piecing a shirt that I have owned for a couple of months with a skirt that I've had for 2 years (and by not matching!!). Sometimes it gets frustrating, but I go to blogs that I love for inspiration, and then go stand in front of my closet with an open mind and creative eyes.
One of my goals for this blog is to show how to be unique and fashionable no matter what career you may have. I work for a bank, but I don't let the dress code affect my style.
I'm very excited about making my own clothes, I can't wait to explore my passion and dream and see where it leads! It's so fun to dream, I hope I never stop...
Summer looks I want to re-create:
kendieveryday: style twin
I love this flowy skirt. Perfect length! This type of skirt could easily be found at a thrift store and modernized with a little mending.
Rachel Bilson: personal style icon. Amazing summer cheek!
I love anything that's cropped or high waisted.
*The blog got a beautiful makeover- thanks to my incredibly talented husband.
Love!
Thursday, July 28, 2011
Short and sweet
I feel like my heart might explode out of my chest right now! In a good way, not like I just ate waffle house... Just a short recap: 1. we offered on a serious dream home last night (I'll go more into that later) 2. I just discovered my style twin! Her blog is called Kendieveryday and I am so incredibly inspired! It's exactly what I envision for my blog, except of course I want to include all of the ins and outs in my life and always talk about God's goodness! I'm having one of those moments where I feel like I can conquer the world- and I'm going with it! This is an amazing season that I'm in and I really can't wait to share all of it here. Have faith my friends, God is FOR us!
Monday, July 25, 2011
My Fitness Monday: Update
I just got home from working out and I've realized this: my favorite part of working out is when I'm done. I really do love the feeling I get after I've exhausted myself physically, and a lot of times emotionally. For example, I've been working towards one of my goals this past week, which was running a 5k, and last night I ran more laps straight than I ever have before. And I busted out crying. Thinking back, that seems a bit ridiculous but pushing myself was emotional... And painful! Running is getting easier. I never thought I would say that, but we've been trying to stay at it everyday and I feel like, just with everything, the more times you do it, the easier it becomes. Back in March of 2007 I decided to join Weight Watchers. I tried several diets before, but never maintained the commitment and always ended up cheating myself. I decided when I joined WW that time was going to pass regardless of whether I was working towards something or not, so why not work for something? I did! I lost 50 lbs during the remainder of that year by food moderation, drinking water, and exercise. Thankfully I've been able to maintain that weight (with the exception of a few lbs) but my mission now is to be healthy and in shape. So that's what I've been working on and what I will continue to work for. It's definitely not going to be easy, but most things worth fighting for never are...
Wednesday, July 20, 2011
summer, summer, summer time...
It's mid-July and summer is in full swing. Because I live in the South, I will endure a couple more months of the heat. I have a love/hate relationship with summer. I love the beginning when the warmth hugs you after a chilly spring, but summer is in no comparison to my beloved fall. The lovely thing about summer is that it stirs adventures within me. I have childhood memories of being at camp all summer long, catching fireflies at nighttime, jumping on our trampoline with my siblings and friends for hours, and just enjoying the season. Sadly, I grew out of that phase during my adolescence and reclused indoors, but this Summer I've been trying to make more of an effort to be adventurous like I used to be... I'll get there.
This Summer's fashion has been perfect; flowy tunics, bright colors, exotic accessories, braids, all things that make my heart happy. I'm looking forward to fall and the newness of that season, but I don't want to rush what has and will be an incredible summer, with even more adventures in store! I think it's wonderful to look forward to new things, but to be contempt in where we are... I'm learning that.
Quick beauty recap:
This Summer's fashion has been perfect; flowy tunics, bright colors, exotic accessories, braids, all things that make my heart happy. I'm looking forward to fall and the newness of that season, but I don't want to rush what has and will be an incredible summer, with even more adventures in store! I think it's wonderful to look forward to new things, but to be contempt in where we are... I'm learning that.
Quick beauty recap:
Monday, July 18, 2011
My Fitness Monday...
I am apart of the vast majority of Americans that battle with being unhealthy. I do not naturally have a fast metabolism and every single thing I put into my mouth has a consequence. Ben and I have been working out for a couple of months now and everytime I leave the gym I am very conscious of what I have been putting into my body. This is not a 'thinspiration' post or anything of the like. As a female, it is extremely easy to get caught up in wanting to be skinny instead of wanting to be healthy. Being skinny does not necessarily equal being healthy. We need to be accutely aware of cholesterol, diabetes, high blood pressure, etc. I was at a restaurant Saturday with Ben and our friend John, and right beside our table was a family sitting, who was an extremely obese family- even the kids. I kept noticing that they were constantly ordering food. An appetizer of fried onion rings, a basket of fries, and then of course the main entree which held zero nutritional value. I found myself feeling judgmental towards them: "how can you keep eating that stuff and not care how it has already affected you". And then, it was my turn to order: "I'll have a classic burger with everything on it, and because that's not enough, I'll have fries". I have absolutely no room to judge anyone, first because I'm commanded to not judge anyone but also because I am no different. I love food, I really do. It's easy to get in the routine of excersising every night, but choosing grilled chicken with steamed veggies seems nearly impossible! Why are we so unhealthy? I don't want to become focused on image because I can have all the surgeries in the world, but if I don't already value myself and my body, I don't know if I ever will. And image is just a small part of who we are! Knowing who we truly are in Christ, thats the reason to feel beautiful! I want to be healthy, and it's not going to come easy. It's gonna take a lifestyle change but I'm realizing how important it is for me to take care of the body I was given. I mean, what a way to glorify God!
So here are a few of my personal fitness goals:
1. Run a 5k. This will be the biggest challenge because I HATE running!
2. Cut back on my carbs/sweets intake. Also a struggle because I am fairly confident that I could live off these two...
3. Drink more water and less sodas.
4.workout 4-5 times a week.
5. Eat more lean protein.
These are just a few things that I'm determined to change in my life. I will post on here my results, failures, success, and everything in between. Here's to a life of being healthy!
So here are a few of my personal fitness goals:
1. Run a 5k. This will be the biggest challenge because I HATE running!
2. Cut back on my carbs/sweets intake. Also a struggle because I am fairly confident that I could live off these two...
3. Drink more water and less sodas.
4.workout 4-5 times a week.
5. Eat more lean protein.
These are just a few things that I'm determined to change in my life. I will post on here my results, failures, success, and everything in between. Here's to a life of being healthy!
Friday, July 15, 2011
dream a little dream for me...
I'm sitting here trying to figure out where to begin since I haven't blogged in quite a while. Lots of life has happened- too much to try to recount or write on here... So, I'll just start at what has been on my heart lately.
I still love fashion. I've tried to control it and not think about outfits, makeup, accessories, etc. all day long, but I can't! It is uncontrollable. Unfortunately, I work a full-time job that has absolutely nothing to do with anything fashion/style related (very thankful I have a job though...). With that being said, I have been doing some soul searching and praying about God's will for my life a lot lately. I have struggled with my purpose and destiny in life since I was in high school. I thought I had it figured out a couple of times, but most of the plans I made fell apart or I just lost interest. I know the "normal" thing for one to do after they finish high school is to go to college and get a degree and figure out your career there. That hasn't necessarily been the case for me. I did go to college, a couple of them to be exact, and I chose a ton of different majors. But I always felt like I was just taking classes to be taking classes. I really wasn't motivated because I had no passion for whatever major I was currently working towards.
I'm still trying to figure out what I am supposed to do... maybe the Lord will reveal it to me or maybe I just need to go out in faith, which can be extremely difficult at times. Ben and I have been talking a lot lately about what we want in life, church, our marriage; my husband is very inspiring and he's pushed me to actually go and do what I love. Even if it's not my main career, I should be running after my passion. With all this said, I have decided to do it! I'm going to start making my own clothes. I have been researching blogs about different d.i.y projects that are completely doable. Such as, thrifting for clothes and then turning them into something adorable and modern (I plan on doing that tomorrow!) And of course, picking out fabrics and starting from scratch. I am very excited about this and I hope to share all of my experiences here. I know that God has an amazing plan for mine and my family's life and I'm really just enjoying the ride while He paves the way.
Here are a few things that I have been loving on pinterest:
Goodness, just uploading these pictures got me excited! I love it!!
Love...
I still love fashion. I've tried to control it and not think about outfits, makeup, accessories, etc. all day long, but I can't! It is uncontrollable. Unfortunately, I work a full-time job that has absolutely nothing to do with anything fashion/style related (very thankful I have a job though...). With that being said, I have been doing some soul searching and praying about God's will for my life a lot lately. I have struggled with my purpose and destiny in life since I was in high school. I thought I had it figured out a couple of times, but most of the plans I made fell apart or I just lost interest. I know the "normal" thing for one to do after they finish high school is to go to college and get a degree and figure out your career there. That hasn't necessarily been the case for me. I did go to college, a couple of them to be exact, and I chose a ton of different majors. But I always felt like I was just taking classes to be taking classes. I really wasn't motivated because I had no passion for whatever major I was currently working towards.
I'm still trying to figure out what I am supposed to do... maybe the Lord will reveal it to me or maybe I just need to go out in faith, which can be extremely difficult at times. Ben and I have been talking a lot lately about what we want in life, church, our marriage; my husband is very inspiring and he's pushed me to actually go and do what I love. Even if it's not my main career, I should be running after my passion. With all this said, I have decided to do it! I'm going to start making my own clothes. I have been researching blogs about different d.i.y projects that are completely doable. Such as, thrifting for clothes and then turning them into something adorable and modern (I plan on doing that tomorrow!) And of course, picking out fabrics and starting from scratch. I am very excited about this and I hope to share all of my experiences here. I know that God has an amazing plan for mine and my family's life and I'm really just enjoying the ride while He paves the way.
Here are a few things that I have been loving on pinterest:
Goodness, just uploading these pictures got me excited! I love it!!
Love...
Tuesday, May 10, 2011
Bold and understated.
Well, I'm certainly not the most faithful of bloggers, but my days seem to becoming increasingly shorter. It's the craziest thing. I've been on a little bit of a mission since starting my new job, because I can't be as flexible with my wardrobe as I used to be and I absolutely don't want to be stuck wearing boring business outfits. I want to stay within my work's dresscode, but still be able to express my personal style. Hopefully I've stayed true to that.
I am always looking for new style inspiration, especially when I can incorporate clothes that I already own. I'm obsessed with Keiko Lynn and her take on all things fashionable. She is fantastic! Rachel Bilson and Zooey Deschanel are definitely some fashion icons of mine and the reason I love their style is because they are risky with their style personalities.
I love that! I always feel down when my outfits feel too safe, per say. I love mixing colors and prints an not being too "matchy matchy". To me, matching is a bondage. That is why I'm so drawn to different. And I appreciate those who take risks and are bold.
Recently I joined pinterest and it is the greatest avenue for inspiration! To anything! I of course mostly just look at the fashion and apparel tabs, but it has everything. I wish I had known about it before our wedding. I've posted tons of items I am loving right now, so if your on it look me up. And because I am writing this on my iphone at work, I can't post any links to what I am loving on. I will post pictures soon! Love.
I am always looking for new style inspiration, especially when I can incorporate clothes that I already own. I'm obsessed with Keiko Lynn and her take on all things fashionable. She is fantastic! Rachel Bilson and Zooey Deschanel are definitely some fashion icons of mine and the reason I love their style is because they are risky with their style personalities.
I love that! I always feel down when my outfits feel too safe, per say. I love mixing colors and prints an not being too "matchy matchy". To me, matching is a bondage. That is why I'm so drawn to different. And I appreciate those who take risks and are bold.
Recently I joined pinterest and it is the greatest avenue for inspiration! To anything! I of course mostly just look at the fashion and apparel tabs, but it has everything. I wish I had known about it before our wedding. I've posted tons of items I am loving right now, so if your on it look me up. And because I am writing this on my iphone at work, I can't post any links to what I am loving on. I will post pictures soon! Love.
Sunday, April 3, 2011
Since my last post, I have started two new jobs, come down with strep throat, and gotten into a wreck. Life is defintely eventful! But God is good, and i'm so thankful for His constant grace.
I've had some extra time to catch up on the local fashion scene, and I have to be honest i'm a little bit disappointed. The problem I always have is that I envision great pieces in my mind, but I can never seem to find exactly what I want in stores. I suppose that is justification for me to sew and create my own clothes. However, I have seen a couple of styles that I like online, which is such a great resource for shopping! You will almost be guaranteed to find something that you like if you look hard enough.
These are all from Modcloth.com:
These shoes are from Lulus.com, and totally remind me of a pair of Candies that I used to have way back in the day. It's amazing how styles always come back around. It kind of makes me want to be a hoarder and not throw out any of my old clothes... okay, not really :) All the more reason for thrift stores!
Lately i've been really praying about being more giving. I am the kind of person that can get so incredibly swept away in fashion and buying that it's very easy for me to lose sight of how blessed I already am. I have a (jam-packed) closet full of clothes, some of which I buy and never wear, and I seem to constantly want more. I live in downtown Augusta and I literally have poverty at my back door. It has been eye-opening for me to see what is really important in life, and what I value. I do love fashion, and I do believe that God instills within us things we love to glorify Him. So, my prayer right now is that I will learn how to use the passions that I have in life to bring honor and glory to His kingdom- and not for selfish gain.
He is just so good....
Morgan
I've had some extra time to catch up on the local fashion scene, and I have to be honest i'm a little bit disappointed. The problem I always have is that I envision great pieces in my mind, but I can never seem to find exactly what I want in stores. I suppose that is justification for me to sew and create my own clothes. However, I have seen a couple of styles that I like online, which is such a great resource for shopping! You will almost be guaranteed to find something that you like if you look hard enough.
These are all from Modcloth.com:
Lately i've been really praying about being more giving. I am the kind of person that can get so incredibly swept away in fashion and buying that it's very easy for me to lose sight of how blessed I already am. I have a (jam-packed) closet full of clothes, some of which I buy and never wear, and I seem to constantly want more. I live in downtown Augusta and I literally have poverty at my back door. It has been eye-opening for me to see what is really important in life, and what I value. I do love fashion, and I do believe that God instills within us things we love to glorify Him. So, my prayer right now is that I will learn how to use the passions that I have in life to bring honor and glory to His kingdom- and not for selfish gain.
He is just so good....
Morgan
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