grateful I {November 2015}

// this post was meant to go out earlier this week but alas it has set unfinished in my drafts. In light of the Paris tragedy, I hardly have words. I weep for the senseless pain and sorrow that the Enemy causes in our world. I weep for longing for a world to know the life and peace of Jesus. I find myself pausing more to stop and be grateful for today. To be alive. To accept the gifts of today. //

Gratefulness.

We know it makes us happier. We know the Bible says to give thanks. We know statistically wise it makes us healthier. We know it makes life better.

But far too often we stay busy and hurried, never stopping to pause and give thanks. To stop and soak in the moments. To breathe that praise to God. To give thanks for the big and the small.

It's the holiday time leading into my favorite time of year. Not only does Thanksgiving remind us to be grateful but Christmas should too. (So I can put out my Christmas decor and no one gets upset, right? :))

So for a few posts this month I want to just list a few things I'm grateful for as a reminder and encouragement to keep on giving thanks.

Today I look back at some things from this last year....I am not always grateful for these things but I am grateful for what they are doing in my life.

- jobs for both Kenneth and I in AR
- a home in AR
- direction for the next step of our lives
- a large scholarship for school
- a home in NW PA
- several great opportunities to travel
- summer days at the lake
- opportunities for lots of growth
- the work of Jesus in my life
- redemption
-the persistent pursuit of Jesus
- introductions to new books, authors and blogs
- beginning to see change as a positive and not negative

What is something you are grateful for from this last year?

glimspes of grace: {un}intentional blogging break

No internet. A computer that will not cooperate. A move. Travels. Packing up all of one's belongings for a long ride across the country. Starting a new life. No internet. No phone service. More travels. School. A computer crash. Still no internet. Or in a rare chance of it's appearance, a billion things that new to get done, one computer between the two of us and hence no blogging.

Meet the unintentional blogging break. I hope it will be over soon but no guarantees.

Yes, folks that is my life the last few months.

First move in June. No internet and preparing for a cross country life change made blogging start taking a back burner.

Moved to NW PA and since then getting internet has been a rare occurrence. No phone service and no internet has made for feeling rather left in the boonies. It has been a bear trying to get our internet service set up (due to the former renter trying to port their number.)

Then there has been a new home. A new life. New friends. New schedule. New everything.

Can't wait to share more of the God-size dreams He is allowing us to pursue. Some of it is really scary and shaking but at the same time it's good.

Life in the eastern part of the US is sure a change for this Midwestern girl! :) But it's good and full of adventures. 

glimpses: change

This is the beginning of a new "series" where I give you a glimpse into my life, whether it be a grace that God is showing me, a funny happening, a struggle or just happiness from a day. Please comment below and give me a glimpse into your life. 

Change. Every 24 hours the calendar moves to a new date. Time changes. People change. Places change.

We can't ignore it so the challenge is, "How well do we embrace change?"

I also realize that changes can be thought of in many different ways. Personal change. Relational change. Today I'm talking of physical change (as in where we live, job, etc...)

What words come to mind when you hear "change"? uncomfortable, excitement, new, adventure, scary, different. I have discovered something funny about myself...I like change for a few months as long as there is still something familiar to come back too, or I like change if it's acceptable to others.

But for the most part I don't love major changes. Why? Fear. Often I want change badly but the scariness of it holds me back. The fear of change {new, not knowing} is the scariest part of change. How do I face change? Do I believe that God is using it to change me? Do I embrace it as opportunities for discovery and grace? The truth is without change things die. Without change there would not be adventure. Life changes. Life grows. It moves. It's alive.

This year has held many changes for me; marriage, new state, new town, new name, new job and the list goes on. And the changes don't slow down...another move this month, in two months a move across the country, academic life, new jobs...

I'm daring myself to face these changes with joy and courage.

5 kitchen necessities

Whether you're a newly wed starting your kitchen for the first time or a single starting your own apartment one of the basic needs of any home is a kitchen. Agree with me here, please. Food, drink, laughter - much of life starts in the kitchen.

Though I grew up being in the kitchen all the time, it still was rather overwhelming when I got to have my own kitchen and realized just all I needed. But I knew I needed to keep things down to a minimal. So here are my 5 basic necessities for a kitchen.

Yes, you can disagree with me on these and leave me a comment with what you would have!

1. A good blender - this is a big chunk of money to throw out but seriously it has been so worth it. Smoothies, soups, muffins, etc. There are so many great recipes that require a blender. Personally I love the single serve cups that come with the Ninja. They are perfect for a quick smoothie! (side note: I would highly recommend going with the set that has the food processor if you can. I didn't and now regret that!)

2. Crock pot - meal ideas for this are endless....breakfast, supper, I've even seen dessert or jelly recipes for a crockpot. Mine is perfect for cooking supper while I work away from home a few days a week.

3. Cast Iron skillet - if you only have one pan get this! Can you use it in more than one way? My kinda of pan. In the oven with a cookie, on the stove frying morning eggs and bacon, uses are endless. Once you buy one, season it (google has lots of helpful links) and you are good to go.

4. Ceramic knife - these things cut veggies and meat like no other. I do have a great set of stainless steel blades that I love, but the sharpness of ceramic comes in very handy.

5. Hand mixer - these are cheap but worth the time they save!

So what is a necessity in your kitchen? I'd love to hear!

*this post does contain affiliates - see my policy here*

coffee date {edition 2}

coffee, chocolate, cuddles and the Word with my favorite man

if we were having coffee today....

...I'd tell you about the amazing cup of French Press my husband got at a local coffee shop when we were with friends a few weeks ago. That stuff was good.

...I'd tell you how thrilled I am with having completed the Whole 30 this last month. It was hard but oh so good. And to be honest the clear cut yes and no's made eating much easier. Now to figure out what direction to head from here...

..I'd tell you how I have been reading the book Restless and it is making me think, pray and dream like never before.

...I'd tell you that I got a 3 day weekend with my man at home and how much I am enjoying it. We have been traveling so much it feels almost weird! Neither of us has to work (well our regular jobs - we're doing plenty around the house!) and it is just nice.

...I'd ask you about your present dreams, your future dreams and the biggest thing on your heart right now.

...I'd tell you how this month ever since listening to several hours of challenging messages my mind has been running with lots of thoughts. This year it spoke to current issues and how the Gospel answers the big questions and leads us. The Gospel gives hope, healing and restoration. It opens our eyes to our calling to be a healer, a helper, an advocate for the hurt, the needy and the broken.

...I'd tell you how much my heart aches with longing to bring hope, healing and freedom to the many many girls today who have been hurt by the lusts of men, agendas of others or the brokenness of not knowing Jesus Christ. There is a hurting world around us.

....I'd tell you how much I love rainy days but I sure wish it didn't bring so much mud with it #agirlcanwishright ? :)

two delicious new recipes from the Whole 30

...I'd tell you how God answered an incredible request - more on this later but suffice to say - WE HAVE A HOME this fall.

...I'd tell you that allergies sure have been affecting my breathing for running lately but this spring greenery makes every run worth it. I'd ask what your current favorite way to workout.

...I'd tell you that this morning I read Isaiah 58 and was blessed to overflowing at the redemption and hope in it.

What's on your mind for a coffee date this week?

in {all} things...

I finished reading the book of Psalms in the last few days and was struck again by the emphasis on praise. Praising the One who created us, who gives us life, who keeps us and who loves us.

"Let them praise the name of the Lord, for his name alone is exalted; his majesty is above earth and heaven....praise the Lord!"

...the world around us praises him
...creation sings praise to Him
...in life, in health, in sickness

Praising him should be the theme of our life. Praising Him is showing thanksgiving and acknowledgment of His hand in our lives.

Sadly, I find it much easier to praise God after something "good" happens. After something I like happens. Or on a sunny day when a cool breeze blows and it is great to be alive. Or after a cozy date night with my man. Or on a rainy day when I can cuddle up with books and coffee. Of course anytime after coffee.

But you know what? God doesn't want me to just praise Him then. Yes, He wants that praise because I believe He takes delight in seeing us have pleasure in creation, in others, in life. But He wants praise at all time.

why?

because He gives us life and love and strength. Our daily breath.

"the Lord is gracious and merciful, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love. The Lord is good to all...All your works shall give thanks to you, O Lord."

I have been convicted about how little I choose to praise Him when it's hard. I long for a heart of gratitude that flows of praise to God. God has done so much for me! And I get "praise-less" over the littlest of things. Life robs me. God longs to give me joy and rest. To return my praise with His love.

...to praise Him when the week is rough
...to praise Him when I'm struggling with my husband or other people
...to praise Him when the road ahead looks scary and the big questions of the future like "how will we have enough money to get through school?"
...to praise Him when my supper doesn't turn out like I want it

so today, let's be grateful. Let's praise Him - for He is good!

making me happy

It's a gorgeous day here in my little corner of the world with sunshine, singing of birds and frogs and warm air swishing through the open doors. The kind of day that makes you want to dig your hands deep into soil. Warmth that makes you want to go plant seeds.

It's good to be alive! I can't wait for picnics, exploring - all the the good things that spring brings. So with that here are a few things that are making me happy!

...the chorus of frogs and birds that I hear when I step outside
...awakenings of spring
... new adventure awaits with this coming of spring
...warm air
...several days with my man where we enjoyed being together, discussing and digging deep into things that God is showing us #letslivefullyalive
...discovering Jesus
...believing the truths of who I am
...living fully alive

...foggy morning runs
...new recipes that turn out well (don't ask about my recent crepe disaster)
...soup for rainy evenings

...crocheting my first real adult hat
...finally finishing a project that's needed done forever
...my darling new niece
...books that make me think (like Daring Greatly)
...blogs like this one and this one
...direction

inspiration...

when icy rain and snow changes your plans for the day, you cuddle up for hot drinks, games and relaxing with your favorite man...it's a good life, folks!

A question for you today....What inspires you? I would love to hear.

Honestly, I struggle to know what to write. Cooking? Well, others are better at that or the recipes disappear. (and for those wanting the blueberry muffin recipe - the link that was the original recipe disappeared on me. Weird. So it will come when I make them again to make sure I remember the ingredients right. Sorry!)  

DIY projects? Umm, well those happen about as rarely as you'll find the ocean in Kansas. (Okay, maybe not quite but why do I get so many ideas and do not do a one of them?) Lessons I'm learning? That's raw. 

*reading alert - this is a very honest post*

To my readers, what gives you inspiration for your blogging, passions and life? 

As I try to chart new roads with this blog, I'm seeking to find just where I want to be. First, I want this place to glorify my Jesus and be a channel for others to see His grace. But I'm scared to write often. I really haven't had much experience in life. I'm still learning. I have a long ways to go in living a life driven by His grace, not my performance or regulations. Living a life embracing joy and the adventure of living.

Should I blog? How much longer will I blog? There are so many beautiful places out on the internet. 

Why do I write? Because words speak to me. I am encouraged, blessed and inspired by the ladies who share their lives and thoughts here on this internet world. But those ladies are brave. Am I brave? 

Where is balance between sharing and saving? There's such a need for authenticity in this world. But there's also a line to not just spill it all.

So my friends thank you for coming along. This blog will likely never have a clear theme. I want to be real. Which means that off line life is the most important (um, yes that's why the new blog design isn't done and posts are not regular), which means that things will change from time to time. 

This blog is also a place for me to experiment in learning design.

God is doing beautiful things showing me the joy that is in this life and the beauty of living it full. But it's a long journey. Lessons, photography, stories, books - here you will see snippets from my passions, from what I'm learning and discovering in this adventure into discovering His beauty and grace. 

a snowy day

perfect for making blueberry muffins...(gluten and sugar free for the win!)

 capturing pictures of the snow draped back yard

journal time, coffee, reading, lots of discussion 

and a hike in the woods with my man

sigh...I love these unexpected days home with my man and I love slowly learning how to use my ipod better for pictures! :)

looking at goals...

Goal setting ... love it? hate it? why?

I love to set goals...finishing them is a different story. Cause usually I set goals that are way out of reach and if I get about half of them completed then I call it good. Laziness plus an overachiever attitude don't make the best combination at times.

What vision do you have for this year? the next 2? or how about the next 5?

What are your dreams? Is there a big dream you want to start working towards?

These are things to consider when setting goals. Knowing your vision and dreams for areas of life helps to weed out things that don't need priority.

What about responsibilities? A job that requires much of you. School. Roles. These affect our goals.

This year I began with many new responsibility. I am developing the vision I want for my home, as a wife, in my work, blogging, hobbies, etc. Now that I am responsible for a home, I have dreams for how I want it to look and feel. I need to put that into vision and then into goals. There's been many changes and will be more but I'm excited to keep on growing in these things.

So here's to 2015. A year of growing in grace, giving myself grace and living it. Occasionally I hope to write some month by month goals, possibly book reviews and other stuff that pertains to this.

Major areas that I break my goals down into... Relationships - with Jesus, with my husband, with others, Personal Growth, Reading, Physical, Finical (i.e. budget/savings), Creativity, Blogging. 

a few examples the overview of how these look...

Reading - after finishing school my reading has greatly suffered due to life so this an attempt to bring it back in. Reading relaxes me, expands my world and delights me. goal: 60 books with diving into many different areas.

Financial - savings goals, monthly budgets, special expenses, etc. (a favorite to way to earn extra income is through swagbucks.)

Creativity - bunching several areas under one name. :) Creativity is art and I need it in my life!
       home projects, music, photography (this area needs a lot of work!)
   
Blogging - write more. Design the blog and expand my knowledge in the web world.

"You are never too old to set another goal 

or to dream a new dream" - C. S. Lewis

     

tis the season...

...for my favorite time of year.

Fall is leaving us while giving some glimpses of the winter ahead. A brief snow a few days back made me excited for a winter with my husband. Cold days made warm by heat and hot drinks. (I miss my family's fireplace these days.) And the joyful anticipation of the holidays.

Thanksgiving. Christmas.

Decorations, lights, laughter, and celebrations. Family, food, events. Celebrating our God and His goodness and grace. Remembering His gifts to us and the incarnation of His greatest gift: Jesus.

snippets of fall

snippets from fall through my ipod camera :)

it's been a beautiful fall...leaves and cool weather...

...pumpkins and adorable candles...

...the coolest coffee shops on rainy afternoons 

...wind blown faces while enjoying the weather - I love this man! 

monday musings

enjoying - fall weather, it's colors and everything pumpkin (seriously from cheesecake to muffins to soup, pumpkin is so yummy!) If you are looking for a delicious healthy pumpkin dessert check out this recipe. (I baked them and they were great.) I can't wait to try these muffins soon.

celebrating - so glad this weekend we could celebrate 3 months of marriage - random dates with my man just get better all the time. I am so grateful for my handsome guy!

excited - to be spending time abroad with my man this month #firstflightsasamarriedcouple

loving - that scarf weather is here! (one cannot have too many scarves.... :))

If we are children of God, we have tremendous treasure in nature and will realize that it is holy and sacred. We will see God reaching out to us in every wind that blows, every sunrise and sunset, every cloud in the sky, every flower that blooms 

and every leaf that fades.

~ Oswald Chambers