heatherlydee

Rivers and Roads

2012-01-26T10:47:00.001-07:00

I saw this on Rebecca's blog earlier and about DIED. My love for The Head and the Heart runs deep and this song is one of my favorites. Which is why I posted another performance of it here, but you have to see this one as well. So lovely.

fashion

2012-01-26T08:00:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday Jenny!

2012-01-25T09:00:00.000-07:00

My dearest Jenny,

Today you are 27. That's still mid-twenties, right? I think Miranda would agree.

I'm not sure where I begin. God knew what He was doing when He placed us on the same dorm floor nearly eight years ago. Can you believe it's been that long?! Thinking back on our friendship, more than anything else, I just feel so blessed to know you. You have brought so much laughter and adventure into my life.

We were just little freshman nerds when we met and we have come such a long way, even going so far as to moving to a different state together. Our time in California is some of my fondest memories. In California we took risks, we were broken down, we grew up and most of all we had a ridiculous amount of fun. Everything adventurous, right?

There is so much I could say to you. I could quote Grey Gardens or perhaps sing "You Haven't Seen the Last of Me" in my Cher voice. But what I really want to say is "thank you for being a friend!" Lol! Okay, seriously though, I love you so much and I am so blessed to be able to call you my best friend. Let's be friends forever, okay?

I hope you have the happiest of birthdays and that this next year exceeds your expectations! I love you millions!

Triplets forever.

Jenny & NYE

2012-01-25T08:00:00.000-07:00

How is January almost over?! That's just crazy talk! I figured it was about time..ahem...to post pictures from when Jenny was here and our New Years Eve. Jenny flew in on Friday and we had a fun few days together. For New Years we got all fancied up, spent some time at our aunt and uncle's house, took silly pictures, went out to The Matador, then got home in time for more pictures and drinks before midnight.

Jessica. Heather. James. Jenny. Ashlee.

This is our "we found a baby" face. (Poor James.)

I don't remember what this face was, but obvi it was a good one.

Then we started posing with inanimate objects.

All dressed up. (Notice my Red Velvet dress?)

Photobooth fun. A must.

On Monday we had breakfast with Eric before he went back to school.

Monday was for exploring Freak Alley, The Record Exchange, a muscle man, chips, gummy bears and Burlesque.

Until next time or as Cher would say, "You haven't seen the last of me."

Music Monday: Taylor Swift & The Civil Wars

2012-01-23T08:00:00.000-07:00

Omygosh you guys! I about DIED when I heard that The Civil Wars and Taylor Swift did a song together for The Hunger Games Soundtrack. You know how much I LOOOOVEE each of them, but TOGETHER?! There song Safe and Sound it so lovely! Since they released it I have been listening to it probably 8-10 times a day. If I could marry a song, it would probably be this one.

Below is a video of song. The Civil Wars were performing at Ryman Auditorium in Nashville and Taylor surprised the audience by performing with them. I heard about all over twitter and lucky for me I found this video of it. I hope you enjoy it as much as I do.

P.S. See HERE for my post about Taylor in Vogue.

Fashion Friday Icon: Taylor Swift

2012-01-20T08:30:00.000-07:00

When I saw Taylor Swift on the cover of Vogue for February I was stoked. I absolutely adore Miss Swift. Not only is Taylor a fashion icon of mine, she's also an all-round lovely lady.

Taylor is a remarkable musician and artist with a fabulous style and she also has a sureness of herself, a confidence in who she is and what she wants. Taylor is a role model in the truest sense; she understands that as a public figure she has a responsibility to her fans and she does not take that lightly.

I am drawn to her grace, whimsy and transparency. In all the interviews I've seen and read Taylor comes across as authentic and genuine; traits that are rare these days. She seems like the kind of girl who would make the perfect best friend; she draws you in and you just can't help but like her.

Call me cheesy, but listening to Taylor's music makes me feel like I'm reading my own diary. She shares the deepest parts of her self, being completely vulnerable and allows us to identify feelings we weren't sure how to express. She's relate-able and honest.

I think I'm going to have to add on to my bucket list: attend a Taylor Swift concert and meet Taylor Swift. How rad would that be?!

"I don't ever want to be that person whose self-image overtakes who they are," says Swift.

source

After reading the article about Taylor I want to:

1. Embrace my awkward and who I am

2. Stop caring what people think of me

3. Conduct myself with grace

4. Live in the present, but plan and dream for the future

5. Be kind and friendly

Best of 2011: Blogs

2012-01-20T08:00:00.000-07:00

I love finding new blogs, especially when they are about things I'm interested in or written by people I can relate to. Last year was a great year for blogging. I challenged myself in my own blogging, grew my readership and discovered some awesome blogs. Below are 11 blogs that I started reading in 2011. What blogs are you reading?

1. Amanda Leigh Tyson

2. Coleman's in Love

3. Frills For Thrills

4. Leopard and Lavender

5. She Said

6. Life. Wedding. Nonsense.

7. These Mountains Are Mine

8. The Clothes Horse

9. Strawberry Moth

10. Seychelles Footwear

11. The Beauty Department

Best of 2011: Movies

2012-01-19T08:00:00.000-07:00

Hi lovelies! I'm back for another day of the "best of 2011"! Today let's talk about movies. Last year I saw boatloads of movies, many released in 2011, but many prior to that.

You may notice that a few of them are movies based on books, many of which are on my Best of 2011: Books post. I'm not one of those people that freaks out about books being turned into movies, worrying if it will be up to snuff. (Who says snuff?! Apparently me.) For the most part I can separate the book and movie and I try to appreciate each as it's own. I can see the merit in each. They are never going to be able to include ALL the details written in books into a 2 hour movie, it's just not going to happen. Enough of that, let's get to my list of movies.

What did you think were the best movies of 2011? What movies are you dying to see? Is anything good coming out soon? Are you the type of person who has to see a movie when it's first released or do you typically wait for them to come out on DVD?

1. The Help
2. Harry Potter 7.2

3. Wild Target
4. Tangled

5. What If

6. Soul Surfer
7. Bridesmaids

8. Never Let Me Go
9. Catfish

10. The King's Speech

11. 127 Hours

Best of 2011: Books

2012-01-18T08:00:00.000-07:00

I did a LOT of reading in 2011. I wish I had kept count of all the books I read last year. As I try to tally in my head, my guess is that I read over 40 books last year. Is that normal?! Haha! I LOVE getting lost in books and obviously 2011 was no exception for that. While I enjoyed just about every book I read last year, below are 11 of the most notable. Each of these books left quite an impression on me. I've linked to past posts I've written about the books.

What is on your book shelf or night stand or on hold at the library? What do I need to add to my book list this year?

1. Millennium Trilogy by Stieg Larsson
2. The Help by Kathryn Stockett

3. Life Without Limbs by Nick Vujicic
4. Between a Rock and a Hard Place by Aron Ralston
5. Savannah Series by Denise Hildreth (See additional post HERE)

6. Total Money Makeover by Dave Ramsey
7. Working It Out by Abby Rike

8. Cold Tangerines by Shauna Niequist

9. Stuff Christians Like by Jonathan Acuff
10. Reshaping It All by Candace Cameron Bure

11. Never Let Me Go by Kazuo Ishiguro

Best of 2011: Music

2012-01-17T08:00:00.000-07:00

Following are 11 musicians or albums that I discovered in 2011. I'll be the first to admit I'm a bit obsessed with The Civil Wars and Head and the Heart. They are my new favorites! Who was your new favorite musicians of 2011? What are you listening to lately?

1. The Civil Wars

2. Head and the Heart

3. Adele- 21
4. The Decemberists- The King is Dead

5. Jayme Dee

6. Karmin
7. Rayland Baxter
8. The Honey Trees

9. Justin Bieber

10. Foster the People
11. Florence and the Machine

Best of 2011: TV

2012-01-16T08:00:00.000-07:00

Hey lovelies! I hope you've had a fantastic weekend! I'm sure enjoying an extra day off today! This week I want to share what I think are some of the bests of 2011 including, television shows, movies, music, books and blogs. Many may not be FROM 2011, but that is when I discovered them, so just go with me on this.

First, let's start with TV. These are 11 television shows that I watched in 2011. Many of these are available on instant Netflix, by the way. What were you watching in 2011? What are you watching now? What shows must I see?

1. Buffy the Vampire Slayer

2. Veronica Mars

3. Better off Ted
4. Make It Or Break It
5. Pushing Daisies

6. Miranda
7. Switched at Birth
8. Bill & Giuliana

9. Ruby
10. Lost

11. Drop Dead Diva

John 3:16

2012-01-15T20:42:00.002-07:00

Fashion Icon Friday: Coury

2012-01-13T08:00:00.000-07:00

Hello darlings! How is your week going? My week has been insanely busy! Today I want to share with you a lovely lady who endlessly inspires me.

Miss Coury Combs of Fancy Treehouse is a fashion blogger based in Nashville, Tennessee. She has her own shop where she sells the cutest clothes, many of which you see on her blog. I just adore her style. Coury is whimsical and one of a kind. She always looks lovely and graceful. Even the details of her outfits are perfect. From rings and bags to shoes and hats, Coury always looks put together and polished.

After looking at Coury's blog I want to:

1. Try new color combinations and color blocking

2. Be more thoughtful in choosing accessories

3. Layer: skirts, dresses, sweaters, shirts

4. Wear more tights and knee socks

5. Stroll through the forest

bittersweet

2012-01-11T08:00:00.000-07:00

"We are where we are. The world is as beautiful and broken as it ever was."
-Shauna Niequist, Bittersweet

this week

2012-01-10T08:00:00.000-07:00

There are so many things I want to do this week and I wantto do them all immediately! Like most people, I wish I had more hours in theday. I thought it might be fun to write a little to-do list on my blog.

1. ReadHarry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince

2. Cross-stitch

3. Practicepiano *

4. Blog *

5. Scrapbook *

6. Mani/pedi *

What are you up to this week?

Young Adult

2012-01-09T08:00:00.000-07:00

Over last weekend, Jenny, Ashlee and I went and saw YoungAdult (written by Diablo Cody). I had never even seen previews for it and wasunsure of what it was about. Jenny saw it once before and said we’d like it, sooff we went to the movies. Overall, I thought it was really good. Not only didit make me laugh, but it also taught me some unexpected lessons.

To sum it up, Young Adult is about Mavis Gary, a divorced,37 year old, writer of a soon-to-be-canceled young adult book series. Mavisfinds out that her high school boyfriend, Buddy, and his wife, Becky, had ababy girl. She goes back to her hometown believing that she and Buddy are meantto be together and works up a plot to get him back. It is slightly painful tosee her advances toward a married man who has obviously moved on. Mavis isridiculously diluted; you can’t help but simultaneously feel embarrassed and sorryfor her. I’ll leave it to you to see how it ends.

While watching I was mortified how much I could relate withher. Now, I don’t have some married, ex-boyfriend who I am plotting to get backwith, but there have been a gentleman or two who have, in the past, taken upresidence in my thoughts. Ladies, you know what I mean. The kind of guy who youhave some sort of history with, maybe not an official relationship, but you hada thing with one time and you really liked him.

When you think of him, you remember all those special timesyou spent together and how much he made you smile. You remember how he stoodcloser than he needed to when talking to you, that hug that lasted longer thanusual, and those words he spoke when you were having a bad day. Swoon. I know I’mnot the only girl that has ever over thought a guys actions and relived the timesspent together.

Now I don’t think there is anything wrong with rememberingthose times, but on occasion I think my mind takes the reminiscing further,perhaps like what happened to Mavis in Young Adult. The time Mavis and Buddyspent together was special. They were best friends and shared so manysignificant milestones. It’s safe to say that Mavis got a bit carried away withtrying to recreate the past. While I may have imagined how great it would be ifthings would have worked out with (insert name here), I have never gone so faras to attempt to break up a marriage.

I think a friend of mine stated the issue perfectly on herfacebook status, “Itis a proven fact that your mind alters your memories each time you revisitthem. Just think about that next time that the memory of an ex boyfriend makesyou miss what you once had. Your mind could be making him greater than thedouche bag really is.” When I first read this, after I finished laughingI realized how much truth there is in that statement. Okay, so he might not bea douche bag, but there is a reason Buddy and Mavis, he and I, you and he areno longer together. The relationship was not completely perfect, but that is how it typicallygets remembered. It didn’t work out. That’s okay. Does that magically heal abroken heart? No. But I believe in time we can see broken/failed relationshipsas stepping stones or lessons learned and we can become better because of them. I can remember those good times fondly, but I don't have to dwell on them.

Ithink girls are fed lies, like, “If you just realize what I just realized thenwe’d be perfect for each other.” (Sorry Colbie Caillat.) Ladies, it’s not ourjob to make him realize that we’re perfect for each other. If it’s meant to be,it will happen. In the mean time let’s stop wasting brain time re-living pastrelationships and hoping for a new ending. At least that’s what I need to do.Watching Young Adult convicted me that I spend way too much time and energyimagining the perfect happily ever after with a hypothetical man who will neverfeel for me what I felt for him. What is silly is that 98% of the time Icompletely enjoy this period of my life and feel totally content being single. It’sthose little lies that get into my head and cause me to doubt. Seeing thismovie gave me so much perspective on my “thought life.” I feel renewed; like Ihave a clean slate.

Iwould love to hear your thoughts on this. Are you single, dating, married? Haveyou experienced these feelings?

P.S. Have you read this article, You Never Marry the Right Person, from Relevant Magazine?

11 Lessons I Learned in 2011

2012-01-06T08:00:00.000-07:00

1. Life never goes how you plan, so plan to be surprised.

2. You will make mistakes, but it’s how you react andrespond that really matters.

3. God will ALWAYS provide; although not necessarily in theway you imagine.

4. Don’t be afraid to ask for help.

5. Take time to set goals for yourself; short and long term.

6. Feel the fear and do it anyway.

7. It is never too late; don’t let excuses stop you fromdoing anything.

8. A positive attitude and sense of humor can lighten eventhe worst situations.

9. This too shall pass.

10. Don’t wait for life to happen to you; be proactive, doyour thing, live abundantly.

11. Trust God; He's got this.

2011. Happiness Project Wrap Up.

2012-01-03T08:00:00.000-07:00

It's 2012! The beginning of the year always seems to be a time of reflection, evaluation, changes, goal setting, etc. I mean, who doesn't occasionally dream of a fresh start or a new beginning?

I want to take a moment to wrap up my December goals from my Happiness Project that I started last year.

December: Happiness

-Exercise regularly

-Finish my 2007 album

-Regular devotions

-Send Christmas cards

-Pay extra on my student loan

-Study for my Electrical Systems final/get an A on the test

-Eat vegetarian

December was an excellent and busy month. While I didn't exercise as much as I would like I probably averaged 3 times a week. My mom and sister have been doing a short workout video with me when I get home from work. I hope we can continue doing it this month!

Completing my 2007 was a task I wasn't sure I was going to be able to do, but Ashlee and I uploaded out 2007 albums for printing on Friday. I can't wait for it to get here! Next up is completing my 2008 album.

I don't know why finding a quiet/devotional time for me is so difficult. I still haven't gotten into quite the right routine, but it's a work in progress.

Thankfully, Ashlee did most of the work on our Christmas cards, because I wouldn't have been able to do it myself. We even got them in the mail before Christmas!

After some budgeting I was able to pay $250 more on my small student loan than the minimum payment. I'm hoping to have that one knocked out by my birthday.

While I didn't get an A on my Electrical Systems final (I got a B), I did end up with an A for my final grade in the class.

Eating vegetarian has been difficult. I did not always stick to it as I would have liked, but I have become more conscious of the food I'm eating and I think I want to continue with vegetarianism.

I cannot believe 2011 is over! It was an unbelievable year, full of so many opportunities and blessings. I am grateful that I challenged myself to complete my own Happiness Project. I have found how much I love setting goals. There is something so rewarding about figuring out that you want and going after it; even the simplest of goals. In 2012 I hope to complete the rest of my 26 before 27 goals.

See past months Happiness Project wrap ups:

January. Energy

February. Creativity

March. Work

April. Family

May. Faith

June. Play

July. Friends

August. Money

September. Education

October. Attitude

November. Food

December. Happiness

See my Twelve Commandments:

Be Heather.
Be better, not bitter.
Enjoy now. Enjoy the process.
Keep it simple.
Don’t make comparisons.
Be kind.
Save more than I spend.
What would I do if I weren’t scared?
Grow.
Stay in touch.
Everything adventurous.
There is only love.

new years eve

2011-12-31T10:11:00.000-07:00

Oh my! This month has gotten away from me! I've been dying to blog, but I've been quiet mostly because I've been trying to accomplish the goals I set for myself at the beginning of the month. That and the holidays have been a whirlwind! I have all these grand ideas in my head and so much to share, but at the moment my hair is up in a towel and I'm rushing to get ready, run errands and pick up my bestie, Jenny, at the airport! I'm so excited to be spending New Years Eve with her and Ashlee! It will be lovely!

I'm going to leave you to enjoy this sickingly adorable video that has been flying around the interwebs this week. I mean really?! If this doesn't make you swoon, I'm not sure you have a heart. ;)

P.S. I may or may not have been surprised with a piano for Christmas! I'll share the whole story soon.

Until next year my loves. xoxo

Wardrobe Wednesday

2011-12-21T08:00:00.000-07:00

One of the blogs that I love reading is Elizabeth of Delightfully Tacky. She is so creative and has such great style. Plus, her hair! I LOVE her hair! I was inspired after reading her post about fall color and winterizing a summer dress. The colors of her post reminded me of a hand-me-down dress from Jenny. I knew I wanted to recreate it, so that's what I did on Sunday. I also used Promise's Messy Bun Video Tutorial to do my hair. It is so EASY! I love it! I think it's my new favorite way to do my hair. I love finding people who share new perspectives. I never would have put this outfit together on own or done my hair like this, but I love how it came together.

Dress: From Jenny

Cardigan: Forever 21

Scarf: Forever 21

Tights: Target

Shoes: Seychelles

Bracelets: Premier Jewlery

Starlette Sparkler: Giant Dwarf Etsy

source

Music Monday: The Head and the Heart

2011-12-19T08:00:00.000-07:00

My love for The Head and the Heart rivals my love for The Civil Wars. That's saying something.

love was born

2011-12-18T13:29:00.002-07:00

Oh my! I cannot believe how busy this time of year gets! It seems like there is always an event, a party, a dinner, a church service, another gift to buy.... This month is so FULL! That is part of why my blog has been more quiet than usual.

One reason in particular that I've been so busy, that I haven't mentioned on here before, is that my family and I participated in a combined church Christmas Cantata. A few of us Lutherans joined with the Methodists and spent weeks practicing "There is a Rose." When my parents first asked if my sister and I would like to join we both said no, but then I was asked again by our organist and was compelled to accept. Ashlee wanted to know what I signed her up for when we attended the first practice last month and were given over 70 pages of music and a cd with 30 minutes of music. I was wondering the same thing myself. I was a little nervous.

It's one of those weird things about me. I love to sing, but I don't call myself a singer. Most of the time I feel like I don't know what I'm doing. I think God has definitely pushed me out of my comfort zones when it comes to music. In August my family was asked/called to lead the worship team for our church's new second service. Um. Hello. God. Me? Not. A. Singer. So I've just been obeying. God asked me to help lead/start the worship team. So I have. God asked me to join the Christmas Cantata. So I did. Not only have a learned so much from doing both, but I've met some amazing people and have been so blessed through these opportunities.

Everytime I would go to Cantata practice nervous or dragging my feet and everytime I would leave filled up and joyful. Last night was the Cantata. It. Was. Awesome. I was anxious, even after all the practices to walk into a packed church and stand on the risers in front of everyone because sharing my voice is such an intimate and vulnerable experience for me. As I stood there I said a prayer, threw away my doubts and sang out. It felt incredible. There is nothing like singing for Jesus. I know I wasn't perfect, but I'm so proud of myself for facing my fears and doing it anyway.

Participating in our churches worship team has been good for that too. We are still learning. There are Sundays where we mess up, but we move forward because we have to. Sometimes it's embarassing, but I keep going because God has asked me to. And there is always another Sunday coming up to prepare for. This has been a challenging lesson in obedience, but I know that I am growing because of it.

Speaking of growing musically, do those of you readers who are musically inclined or worship leaders have advice for someone like me, who loves music, but doesn't necessarily have much knowledge or experience?

I'm trying to convince my family that I need (and that we have room for) a piano that our church is going to get rid of. Hello! Free. Piano. I think they are getting tired of me "casually" bringing it up in conversation. For example, "Oh look! We just cleaned out that bedroom. A piano would fit perfectly." Wink. Wink.

christmas cheer

2011-12-16T08:00:00.000-07:00

There are no words for this video. Just watch.

story of my life

2011-12-13T08:00:00.000-07:00

THIS.

joy. pray. thank.

2011-12-12T08:00:00.000-07:00

Yesterday's sermon really struck a cord with me. Especially after what last week was like. I took some notes and wanted to share them with you. The sermon was based on the scriptures from 1 Thessalonians 5:16-24. I'll just share the first couple verses with you, but please read the rest for yourself. "Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus."

Pastor shared that having joy and being joyful doesn't equate with being happy. Joy comes from God and NOT from our circumstances. Our circumstances and the unknowns of our future can cause anxiety and worry. Joy is not easy because we do have trials in our lives and our futures are uncertain, but we KNOW that we are children of God.

That leads into praying without ceasing. We are to pray when life is hard, but we are also to pray when life is easy. Prayer is about relationship with God. The more we pray for EVERYTHING the closer we feel to God; we build a trust in Him and learn that we can turn to God for anything. Trust eases those unknowns in life.

Next the scripture says to give thanks in all circumstances. No matter what. This develops an attitude of gratitude and it shows where we place our trust. We are called to be grateful despite the unknowns in life. God has already prepared tomorrow for us! I love that! God even cares for us before we need providing.

God is there with us, even in the midst of our weaknesses. God doesn't always work in the ways we expect, but rather in the ways we NEED. It might be very simple rather than spectacular, but God is working. God simply provides even though He may not tell you HOW He will and He doesn't do a half-way job.

This is one of those lessons that I have heard many times previously, but I needed the reminder.

alright

2011-12-07T19:35:00.001-07:00

Oh man. This has been one of those weeks. If it could go wrong. It did. I'm not even sure how I've made it this far. Earlier today I was sitting at my desk telling myself that I could not cry at work. I'm blaming most of this week on my hormones. (Ladies, you know what I mean.) I'm also blaming technology for freaking out on me, causing me to get behind on work. It's just been a ridiculous week. I hope that your week has been a million times better than mine.

I'm praying that tomorrow is better. Sometimes in the midst of the craziness it's difficult to get perspective. I will feel better. I will get caught up at work. The world won't end. Everything will be alright.

on the tv

2011-12-01T08:00:00.000-07:00

It’s no secret that I love watching movies and TV shows. I’ma bit of a junkie. I know that it rots my brain and my eyes will forever becrossed and all that, but I just can’t help it. The same thing happens withbooks, I just get sucked into the story lines. I love the drama, the comedy, theaction. Lately I’ve seen many good shows and movies and I wanted to share.

Drop Dead Diva- When I first saw previews for this show I thought it must be the dumbest show ever. Seriously, a pretty girl who dies and comes back as a lawyer? Luckily, one day I was bored and turned this one. I fell in love. Deb/Jane is so sassy and fun; and strangely enough I can relate to the dead girl who comes back to life. Plus, Fred, the guardian angel melts my heart. My sister and I even got our parents watching it.

Cyberbully- One Sunday I was sick in bed and decided to distract myself so I turned this on. Emily Osment and Kay Panabaker are in it, plus it's an ABC family movie. So duh, of course I'm going to like it. The title of the movie sort of gives away what it's about, but it's such an important topic. I've been the target of bullying before, but never cyberbullying. It was eye opening to see what teens these days are facing. And just a suggestion to any teens reading this: The internet is not your best friend or your diary. You do not need to put EVERYTHING you think, feel, breathe, like out there for the whole world to see.

Wild Target- Emily Blunt. Rupert Grint. Magic. I. LOVED. THIS. MOVIE. That's all I'm going to say. You must see it.

You Again- I don't know how I waited so long to see this movie! Marni's brother is about to marry the mean girl who made her life hell in high school. It's a fun movie about changing your ways and second chances.

Revenge of the Bridesmaids- So I like ABC family movies. So sue me. Hey maybe Deb would represent you. I digress. I just realized there is another mean girl in this movie too! I'm sensing a theme. I'm also getting off topic again. So what is this movie about? Undercover bridesmaids played by Joanna Garcia and Raven-Symoné trying to sabotage a wedding. It's pretty silly, but very entertaining.

Karate Kid- I was pleasantly surprised with the new Karate Kid movie. Jayden Smith and Jackie Chan were great! Good life lessons.

Miranda- Jenny introduced me to this British show and it has quickly become one of my favorites. It's about a single woman who is 34 (read in her mid-twenties), she is a bit awkward in social situations and especially around men, she owns her own shop and has a crush on the chef at the restaurant next door. It's surprising how much I relate to her. I absolutely adore her!

Felicity- Oh, dear Felicity. What can I say about you? You are young and naive and are always embarrassing me with your angst and awkwardness, with your massively curly hair, your crush on Ben and friendship with Noel. I don't know what to do with you. I just can't seem to stop watching.

I'd love to hear what you've been watching lately. Anything I must see?

November Wrap Up and December Goals

2011-11-30T21:54:00.000-07:00

No way is tomorrow December! (I think I said the same thing at the beginning of November.) I can't believe the year and my Happiness Project are almost over. It's been a challenging and busy month.

November: Food

-Read The Kind Diet by Alicia Silverstone

-Drink 2 Miir Bottles of water a day

-Don’t eat out more than twice

-Try going vegetarian

-Help cook family meals

This month's goals were more difficult than I initially thought they'd be. I haven't made it quite all the way through The Kind Diet, but I should be done in the next couple days. It's been very eye-opening. I KNOW that the food we eat has an effect on health, wellness, body, etc., but I don't know all the facts, details, etc. It has definitely inspired me to think more about the food I'm putting in my mouth. The Kind Diet has been a good resource and I want to try some of the recipes in the back.

I don't think I've had EXACTLY 2 Miir Bottles of water every day, but I definitely upped my water intake. My friends know me as the girl who NEVER drinks water, so this is very good for me!

I'm not sure how many times we actually ate out. There were a couple nights that we were feeling too tired to cook, but we are all trying to be better about eating at home.

Going vegetarian was quite the challenge. Since Ashlee has gone vegetarian for over a year, we've eaten a lot less meat, so I figured it'd be no biggie. I quickly realized how prominent meat is in my life. I definitely stumbled through this month, but I think I'm on the right track and that going vegetarian is something I want to continue. Ultimately, I don't really want to label myself food-wise, I want to eat natural food that makes me feel good.

I've been doing so much better helping cook our family meals. So often by the time I get home from work I'm too tired to lift a finger. Last week I helped my mom make a delicious butternut squash lasagna and tonight I helped make a broccoli divan.

So December. The last month of the project. December is for Happiness. It is my boot camp month, combining all the topics from throughout the year. Now, I don't expect I'll be able to do everything perfectly, but it's worth a try. My goals are as follows:

December: Happiness

-Exercise regularly

-Finish my 2007 album

-Regular devotions

-Send Christmas cards

-Pay extra on my student loan

-Study for my Electrical Systems final/get an A on the test

-Eat vegetarian

See past months Happiness Project wrap ups. January. February. March. April. May. June. July. August. September. October.

Wardrobe Wednesday: A Bit Rusty

2011-11-30T08:00:00.000-07:00

It's been FOREVER since I've done an outfit post. I've been a bit of a lazy blogger lately, but I am hoping to get back into a nice routine.

Cardigan: Target

Blouse: H&M

Jeans: H&M

Shoes: Forever 21

Ring: Gift

Tuesday Inspiration

2011-11-29T08:00:00.000-07:00

I think these two drawings are just the prettiest! I even have the first one set as the background on my computer. What is inspiring you today?

you will

2011-11-28T08:00:00.000-07:00

I stumbled across Nan Lawson's beautiful illustrations on Rebecca's blog, The Clothes Horse. Are they absolutely lovely?!

whale

2011-11-23T08:00:00.000-07:00

This made me giggle. I just had to share.

home

2011-11-21T08:00:00.000-07:00

I've been wanting to paint again for a long time. I go through weird phases...I get ideas for paintings in my head, but sometimes it will take me months to work up the courage to try putting my ideas on canvas. My most recent painting was no exception. I worry too much that what's in my mind won't translate exactly how I want it to when I sit down to paint. I was inspired by the pictures below that I found on pinterest.

I LOVE the first two paintings and knew I wanted to use lines and color.

With the next two pictures, I knew I wanted to incorporate lyrics using vinyl letters.

When I first attempted to paint on Saturday things did not go how I planned. By the time I finished I felt like an ugly rainbow threw up all over my canvas. Sunday I tried again, repainting my entire canvas, but it was challenging due to the fact that I was quickly running out of white paint and was too lazy to get more. I managed to have just enough and finished this afternoon. The really hard part about having to start over is having to hand paint the letters since I was out of the vinyl letters, but I think they turned out okay. I used the lyrics to Home by Edward Sharpe and the Magnetic Zeros. It is definitely one of my favorite songs right now. I've already hung this up in my bedroom....not that I really have room on my walls.

MiiR

2011-11-15T08:00:00.000-07:00

Hello darlings! On Saturday I had the privilege of attending a screening of MiiR's documentary, "Beyond the Bottle." My sister has written about MiiR before. (See here.) Miir was started by a fellow SPU alum, Bryan, and I am so proud of what he and his team are doing.

So often I take for granted what I have been blessed with, even the simplest things, such as a glass of water. Did you know that nearly a billion people don't have access to clean drinking water? That number shocks me every time I hear it. MiiR is helping provide clean drinking water to those who need it most.

"At MiiR, we believe in challenging the status quo. We believe in thinking differently about what we create and who it may impact. we do this by making our products highly functional, well designed while giving back to those in need. We decided to start by making great bottles with significant purpose behind them."

As you can see by the pictures, my family LOVES MiiR bottles. Not only are the bottles unique, customized to us, and a "pleasure" to drink from, using a MiiR bottle eliminates the use of plastic bottles and one dollar of each MiiR bottle goes to provide one person with clean water for one year.

MiiR partnered with One Day's Wages, which is an organization to alleviate extreme global poverty. ODW uses 100% of the money raised to directly grant to organizations, projects, and causes around extreme global poverty. Rad, huh?

So if you need an idea for a unique Christmas gift that also makes a difference, MiiR is the way to go!

Follow Miir on twitter.
Follow Miir on facebook.

the unexpected

2011-11-14T08:00:00.000-07:00

I should know by now that life NEVER goes exactly how you plan. That seems to be the story of my life. This weekend was no exception. I got an unexpected phone call Friday while I was at work. My dad was attacked by a crazy neighbor cat after the cat tried to attack Blizzard. To make a long story short, my dad had to go to urgent care and we had to take the neighbor cat to the humane society to be quarantined in case it has rabies. The neighbors who own the cat are not exactly the friendliest and have a reputation for overreacting with other neighbors. After all that, the decision was made to stay home this weekend, so we missed my cousin's wedding. It's too bad, but I think we all really needed a weekend at home.

Speaking of the unexpected, yesterday morning I learned that one of our dear friends from church is moving to Las Vegas with her son. She has had some terrible things happen in her life lately and this move is a good opportunity for her to have a fresh start. I'm just so sad to see her go. Please say a prayer for guidance and wisdom for her as she and her son are making this new transition.

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What unexpected things have happened in your life recently? Were they good or bad?

11.11.11

2011-11-11T08:00:00.000-07:00

Today after work my family is leaving for my cousin's wedding. I'm so excited for K&D. He and his wife-to-be have quite the unusual story. They were previously married about 13 years ago, divorced about 6 years ago, and reconciled about 2 years ago. Their lives are a testimony to God's redemption, forgiveness and abundant love. I'm so excited so be celebrating with them tonight!

How will you be spending 11.11.11?

on the shelf

2011-11-09T08:00:00.000-07:00

Hey loves. I feel like I've had a difficult time writing "real" posts. By the time I get home from work my brain just seems to float away. I figured it has been awhile since I've shared my reading list, so that's what I'm going to do today.

Millennium Trilogy by Stieg Larsson
When I started the first book, all I knew is that it was popular, but I had no idea what it was about. My sister and a couple friends said that it took a chapter or so to really get into the book, which I also experienced. If you haven't read these, be warned, there is rather graphic sexual violence. Despite that, the stories Stieg Larsson told were amazing and intriguing, about a young woman named Lisbeth Salander and an investigative journalist, Mikael Blomkvist. I could hardly put these books down.

The Help by Kathryn Stockett

This is another one of those books that I heard that I must read, but I didn't really know what it was about or what to expect. It definitely lived up to all the hype. This is an amazing story that I laughed and cried through. It's about African American maids working and living in Jackson, Mississippi in the 1960s. I'm anxious to see the movie now!

Currently Reading:

Bittersweet by Shauna Niequist

I just started reading this last week. I previously read Shauna's book, Cold Tangerines (mentioned here, here and here) and loved her writing style. She offers so many beautiful insights about life, changes and growth. I can't wait to finish.

The Real Girl Next Door by Denise Richards

My sister read this a couple months ago and when I saw it sitting on the shelf at the library I picked it up. It's been an easy read and I'm nearly done. I always find it interesting to read about the lives of celebrities. It's easy to think everything about them and their lives is perfect, but when you get down to it, they are people too.

The Kind Diet by Alicia Silverstone

My sister, Ashlee, and my triplet, Jenny, have both read this book and since reading it, have both become vegetarians. (See my sister's post about the book here.) I'm so curious to learn more about how what you eat effects your health and your body. I previous read The Butcher and The Vegetarian and really enjoyed what Tara had to share about her take on food. (See my post here.)

tuesday inspiration

2011-11-08T08:00:00.000-07:00

Here are a few images that are inspiring me today. Happy Tuesday darlings!

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halloween

2011-11-03T08:00:00.000-06:00

I figured it was time to post my Halloween pictures or else I would forget until Christmas. As I mentioned before I decided to be Olive Penderghast for Halloween. It was an incredibly easy costume. I wore a black tank top, black jeans, black heels and a pearl necklace. I spent all of 35 cents on red felt and sewed the A. The only downside was that besides my family, no one got my costume. Duh, people! Anyway, I had fun in my costume. My amazing sister, Ashlee, was foursquare. I didn't post a full body picture of her costume, so you'll have to wait until she shares on her blog.

Compared to the past three Halloweens this year was very uneventful. Ashlee and I went to our cousin's party for a bit, but left early and stopped by the Matador before heading home.

positivity

2011-11-02T11:17:00.000-06:00

I will be the first to admit that I have done my fair shareof complaining and whining over the course of my life. It’s all too easy andheck, I’m good at it. Life isn’t going how I planned. I was unemployed for fartoo long. I was thousands in credit card debt. I have tens of thousands ofstudent loans to pay back. I don’t have a car. I don’t have a community. Granted,even those relatively minor issues can feel like the weight of the world, butafter writing all that out I am ready to slap myself. Negativity is sureobnoxious!

Lately through work and life I have encountered a number ofnegative people. (And I’m not denying that I was one of them.) These are thepeople who ALWAYS find something wrong or ALWAYS play the role of the victim,but never do anything to change their situation. Things do go wrong in life andpeople do get hurt; that is part of life. But really, when is enough, enough?Hearing constant negativity spew out of peoples’ mouths is utterly exhaustingand emotional draining. At some point, we need to stop wallowing andcomplaining, and just start doing something. Start with a small step. Ask forhelp. Say a prayer.

I’ve heard stories of people who are in much worsesituations than I have ever been in, yet with a quiet strength and an incomprehensiblepeace, they’ve walked through the darkest valleys. I’ve been at rock bottombefore (and I’ll probably wind up there again), probably not in the same way asanyone else, but I made the choice to rise above it. I’m done complaining aboutmy circumstances. (Remind me of this when things get hard.) Complaining,whining and worrying are not going to change where you are or what you aregoing through. However, I believe that a little positivity, courage and prayerwill go a long way to helping turn things around.

Wherever you are, whatever you are going through it’s time tothrow away the victim card and become a fighter and a survivor. It is time toTHRIVE and find real JOY in this life we’ve been given. Does this mean everythingis going to work out perfectly and life will be a breeze? Of course not, but weALWAYS have a CHOICE. The best part is, that whatever happens, God is ALWAYSright there beside you and God has an excellent track record. Remember, you arenot alone in this.

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November

2011-11-01T08:00:00.000-06:00

Is it really November?! These past couple months haven't really felt like fall, probably because our weather has continued to stay fairly warm. It sounds like this is finally the week where we'll cool down. I'm looking forward to what this month has to offer. I'm certain November will be full of work, church activities and family time.

What are your plans for November?

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DSM to BOI

2011-10-31T09:00:00.000-06:00

I had a great work trip to Iowa last week! It still amazes me that they have such confidence that they want to invest in me by allowing me to go to different places. This trip was a lot different from the last one and was much more low key. (And I didn't delete all the pictures off my phone this time!)

My co-workers and I left Wednesday morning and got to Des Moines early afternoon, where we picked up our rental car (a Nissan Cube, haha!) and checked into our hotel.

After settling into my room and reading for a bit, the president took my co-worker and me out to a nice dinner downtown. Around 7pm we headed back to the hotel where I relaxed and watched TV and read.

The day was fairly leisurely. Our presentation wasn't until the afternoon, so we spent a bit of time going over possible questions, but most of the morning and early afternoon I read my nook and practiced what I was going to say for our presentation.

We presented at 2pm and my co-workers did a great job! I spoke for barely two minutes, but it was a good sized crowd and I was a bit nervous.

That evening, one of my co-workers wasn't feeling well, so the president just took me out for dinner. He made me choose, but google led me astray and we ended up at a sketchy dive bar. The food was greasy, but the conversation and company was great; the president is a man with a vision and is very charismatic and kind. After dinner we went back to the hotel and I spent the evening watching TV and reading. It was so relaxing!

The next morning was also fairly leisurely, as our flight didn't leave until after noon.

At the Denver airport we had the perfect amount of time to grab some food and take our time finding our gate.

I got in around 5:30 Friday evening and was greeted by my family, who then took me out to dinner. It was a quick trip, but I'm so glad I was able to go. I am feeling more confident in my position and have learned so much more about the company and how things work. I wonder where I'll go next? ;)

October Wrap Up and November Goals

2011-10-31T08:00:00.000-06:00

No way is October already over!That means it’s time to do some wrap up. My goals for this month were asfollows:

October: Attitude

-Laugh out loud

-Use good manners

-Give positive reviews

-Find an area of refuge

-Take myself on a Heather date

As you can see, these goals were more difficult to measurethan some of my previous goals. Like all the months before, this was a month ofemotional ups and downs. During this month I faced a point where I was quite…upset.(I guess that’s the right word.) My time in Seattle made me realize that my life isn’twhere I want it to be. I was faced with a choice. To continue to wallow or tomake choices and set goals that will turn my life in the direction I want togo. While we can’t always help the things that happen to us in life, weABSOLUTELY have a CHOICE on how we react.

It can easily be said that when I visited Seattle (which I will share pictures of soon)I laughed most of the time. I love spending time with my girls and we alwayshave a great time together.

Using good manners and giving positive reviews were thingsthat I was able to practice through my job. While I have been there for awhile,things are a bit different now that I am a permanent employee and I am dealingwith more and more co-workers and customers. It is especially important that Iam putting my best foot forward, displaying a positive attitude and being kindand courteous.

I don’t think I ever really found an area of refuge; atleast not a consistent one. For a short time that refuge was Seattle, but that was only temporary. I thinkI’m going to have to work on finding one here.

I just about forgot about the Heather date that I wanted totake myself on. It actually ended up that I had a lot of down time/quiet timeto myself on my work trip to Iowa.I had two evenings where I was able to snuggle into my hotel bed, watchanything I wanted on TV, read my nook, listen to music and eat chips and candy.(Not all at once of course!) It was so pleasant to have some time to myself soI could relax.

This month I learned that attitude really is everything.Life throws us curveballs all the time and remaining positive despite whathappens it so important.

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Here I am with two months left of the year, two months leftof my happiness project. So what does November have in store? November is forfood and here are my goals:

November: Food

-Read the Kind Diet by Alicia Silverstone

-Drink 2 Miir Bottles of water a day

-Don’t eat out more than twice

-Try going vegetarian

-Help cook family meals

BOI to DSM

2011-10-26T08:00:00.000-06:00

This morning I'm leaving for Iowa for a work meeting. I'm a little nervous because we're presenting to over a hundred superintendents. I've never really done anything like this before, but I'm ready to jump in the deep end. The president of the college has a way of delegating responsibility and giving his employees opportunities to lead and grow. It should be a really good experience. I'll be back on Friday and hopefully I won't delete all the pictures off my phone like I did last time.

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In the mean time be sure to stop by Michelle's blog for Beauty Week!

life update

2011-10-24T10:00:00.000-06:00

These past few weeks have been a whirlwind. Between work, trips and church commitments I’ve hardly been able to breathe.

We are remodeling my department at work, which meant packing and moving to the main building. I think I’ve finally settled into my temporary desk, which will be my home for the next three weeks. It’s actually kind of nice because I have more face time with other co-workers and they are all so kind. Now that I am feeling caught up, I know things are going to get crazy again. This week we have customers flying in for meetings and then I leave Wednesday for another work trip. Despite the busyness, when I stop to think about my situation, gratitude washes over me. I feel so blessed to work for an amazing organization that I know appreciates me. I really love my job, even when it gets crazy.

I mentioned previously that I just got back from six days in Seattle. I don’t even know where to begin with that trip. It really caused me to do a lot of reflecting, which sort of caught me off guard. I was expecting to have a fun time with some of my best friends, which I did, but I did not expect the emotions that came with it. My friends in Seattle have great jobs, great friends and a great church. They have an amazing community there. I feel like I'm really lacking a solid community in Idaho. I mean I have my family and church, but I don't really have a community of people my age who I can identify with. I really miss having that.

I am hoping that in the coming months I can find ways to experience that here. Something that I was struck with while I was visiting was that I can't wait around hoping that the things I want in life come and find me. While I can't control everything, there is so much in life I do have control over. I can create the life I want to live. I need to be intentional and set goals, but the life I want doesn't have to be far away or not attainable.

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Beauty Week

2011-10-24T09:00:00.000-06:00

Hi friends! Check out Michelle's blog this week! She is hosting Beauty Week with over 14 guest bloggers! You'll have to watch for my post.

to my future spouse

2011-10-21T20:45:00.000-06:00

Have you heard of/seen the website To My Future Spouse? Cory Copeland of Mad To Love began it. I spent more time than I would care to admit looking at it today. For over five years, I have kept a journal of notes, quotes and song lyrics to my future husband. While I desire to meet him, I am in no rush and am pretty content with my life as it is. All in God's time.

I was struck by many of the things that people wrote on the website. Some made me laugh, many made me roll my eyes and others made my heart skip a beat. Love is such an intimate thing, so seeing my own feelings written by others caught me off guard. It was especially interesting reading from the male perspective. I guess I don't really think about my husband longing or praying for me as I do him.

It kind of reminds me of Mandy's guest post awhile back. I had to share some of my favorites that I read today. For those of you who are single, what is something you want to say to your future spouse? For those of you who are married, did you write to your future spouse?

Dear Future Husband:
Check it.

back home

2011-10-20T11:00:00.000-06:00

I’ve been MIA lately, but for good reason, I just got home from six days in Seattle. It was an amazing trip, which I hope to share with you soon. Actually, there is a lot that I want to share, but that will come in time. I hope you are all having a great week. Love and blessings.

Back home
On the ground
We discover
That the gift
The great wings gave us
Is new eyes to see that
This place where we live
We love more than we know

emma stone red.

2011-10-11T08:00:00.000-06:00

I finally had my hair done yesterday. I'm so bad about going in between cuts and colors to have my bangs trimmed. It feels good to be able to see again! I saw Emma Stone on the cover of a People Style magazine a month or so ago and I loved her hair color. So when I went into the salon I had her in mind. I really like how it turned out and it's nice to give my hair a break from the blonde highlights.

Not the best lighting, but you get the idea.

My inspiration:

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While we were in the salon we were talking about Halloween costume ideas. By the time my hair was done I jokingly said that I should be Emma Stone for Halloween. Ashlee took it a step further and said I should be Olive Penderghast! I think that would be fun! I might go for it with my new hair! I should get a card that plays Pocket Full of Sunshine! And who knows, maybe I'll find my very own Woodchuck Todd. ;)

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Music Monday: Cary Brothers & Laura Jansen

2011-10-10T09:00:00.000-06:00

You may remember me mentioning Cary and Laura back in March. They are the cutest couple ever and so very talented. Check out their cover of Ryan Adam's Come Pick Me Up, they did for The Voice Project.

Cary Brothers & Laura Jansen » Ryan Adams from The Voice Project on Vimeo.

Music Monday: Adele-Someone Like You

2011-10-10T08:00:00.000-06:00

Like most people, I completely adore Adele! I think she is absolutely fabulous and exceedingly talented. Her songs are beautiful, heartfelt and relatable. Check out her music video for Someone Like You.

rivers and roads

2011-10-07T18:56:00.002-06:00

I've been listening to The Head and The Heart a lot this week. I love their album and I'm so glad Janelle shared them with me. Their song "Rivers and Roads" has been stuck in my head all afternoon and I can't stop humming or singing it.

Seattle & Whistler

2011-10-06T08:00:00.000-06:00

FINALLY! Here is a little recap of my trip to Seattle/Whistler.

Ashlee and I left on a Thursday evening and flew into Seattle. Jenny picked us up and we met the girls for dinner at Georgetown Liquor Company. The food was so-so, but the conversation was wonderful. It was great to catch up with the girls.

Friday morning we left around 9am, bound for Canada. After a quick stop at Starbucks we were ready to go. The drive was great. I kept annoying the girls by pointing out power poles, transmission lines and bundled conductors. We got to Whistler around 1pm and joined Jenny's mom and aunt for lunch in their room. After a bit of TV, we finally checked into our room and then got ready for the zip trek.

This was us before the zip trek. I was so nervous!

Up in the trees! So much fun!

We had great guides on the zip trek! They were so nice and patient with those of us who were nervous. On the drive up the mountain we saw the Olympic bobsled track and a bear. I was pretty nervous to go, but once you're up there it's not like you can give up. Our theme was to be bold and be committed. After the first big zip, most of my nerves were gone and I was able to enjoy myself. It was so exhilarating! On the very last zip they showed us how to go upside and let go. We were all hesitant, but every one in the group did it. I was the second to go and it was the weirdest feeling to step off the platform backwards and let yourself go upside down. Afterwards I felt like I could do ANYTHING! Deb said that she would buy us a round of drinks that night to celebrate facing our fears.

After zipping around the mountain we went back to our room, had dinner and got cleaned up before going back to the village for drinks. We went to Dubh Linn Gate Irish Pub. It was so much fun! Deb bought us our first round of drinks. We talked and laughed and ordered dessert and more drinks. Jenny's parents and aunt headed back to the hotel after awhile and we stayed to talk and laugh some more.

Goofing off in the bathroom.

Back in our room we ate tuna, cheese and crackers and laughed hysterically while watching Miranda. It was such a great evening!

Saturday morning we skyped with our sweet friend Amanda and then spent the rest if the morning walking around the shops at Whistler Village. We ended up back at the pub for lunch where we shared an enormous order of nachos.

The afternoon we relaxed in our room and went down to the pool for a bit before cleaning up for dinner at Elements Urban Tapas.

Dinner was amazing! My favorites were the two toned frites, salted potatoes and tempura artichoke hearts. Oh, and the chocolate ganache dessert. After dinner we were going to go back to the pub, but it was packed so we ended up at Citta for drinks on the patio and people watching.

Sunday we had a delicious breakfast at the pub before heading back to the states. We spent the afternoon and evening lounging at Jenny's watching Netflix, Extreme Home Makeover and Miranda.

Monday we slowly packed our things. We headed down to Seattle to meet Janelle for lunch at The Matador. We had so much fun catching up! Before too long she had to get back to work. Jenny, Ashlee and I spent what little time we had left walking around the shops in Ballard before going to the airport.

This trip flew by, but I had so much fun! I cannot wait to go back to Seattle next week so I can spend more time with my besties!

Steve Jobs

2011-10-05T21:49:00.000-06:00

I don't own an apple computer, an iphone or an ipad, not that I wouldn't want to. The only apple device that I have is a 2nd generation ipod that resembles a small brick. I don't really stay current with all the new technology. However, I do admire Steve Jobs and the company he created. He was exceptionally talented, innovative and creative and he left a profound mark on the world. My prayers go out to his friends and family during this time.

"Remembering that I'll be dead soon is the most important tool I've ever encountered to help me make the BIG decisions in life. Almost everything... All external expectations, all pride, all fear of embarressment or failure. These things just fall away in the face of death. Leaving only what is truly important." -Steve Jobs, February 24, 1955 – October 5, 2011

"The world rarely sees someone who has had the profound impact Steve has had, the effects of which will be felt for many generations to come. For those of us lucky enough to get to work with him, it's been an insanely great honor. I will miss Steve immensely." -Bill Gates

"Steve was among the greatest of American innovators - brave enough to think differently, bold enough to believe he could change the world, and talented enough to do it. By building one of the planet’s most successful companies from his garage, he exemplified the spirit of American ingenuity. By making computers personal and putting the internet in our pockets, he made the information revolution not only accessible, but intuitive and fun. And by turning his talents to storytelling, he has brought joy to millions of children and grownups alike. Steve was fond of saying that he lived every day like it was his last. Because he did, he transformed our lives, redefined entire industries, and achieved one of the rarest feats in human history: he changed the way each of us sees the world." -President Barak Obama

beautiful

2011-10-04T08:00:00.000-06:00

I found this on my sister's hard drive the other night. It's a collage I made my junior year of college. I was involved in a great small group for about three years in college with some great girls. We studied so many great books. I believe we made collages while we were studying Captivating by John and Stasi Eldredge. The quote on it is from Bethany Dillon's song 'Beautiful'.

Music Monday: Rock Mafia

2011-10-03T10:30:00.000-06:00

I LOVE this song. It will get stuck in my head for days at a time. It doesn't help that I love Big Bang Theory either because that reminds me of this song. Plus I adore Miley; she's one stylish girl. Enjoy!

September Wrap Up and October Goals

2011-09-30T09:00:00.000-06:00

I have a BIG announcement! I am officially EMPLOYED as aPERMANENT employee! WOO! I’m so excited! This has been a long time coming, as I’vebeen temping there for nearly five months. I signed the paperwork yesterday!Plus, I will be going to Iowafor work at the end of October!

This opportunity reminds me that God ALWAYS provides foryou, even if it’s not the way you imagine. After over two years of beingunemployed and having random temp jobs, it is such a relief! Those of you whoare employed might not always recognize how blessed you really are; don’t takeit for granted. Those of you searching for work don’t give up and don’t losehope!

Okay, enough of that. It’s time to wrap up my Septembergoals.

September: Education
-Take a class (Electrical Systems through work)
-Read Unlimited by Jillian Michaels & re-readReshaping It All by Candace Cameron Bure
-Learn a new activity (perhaps make macarons?)
-Practice guitar/Learn a song on the guitar
-Learn how to create a budget

I did take a class, but it wasn’texactly what I had in mind when I originally was planning. My work signed me upto take the beginning, 4 week, Electrical Systems class with all the linemen.The president thought it would help me and my co-worker better communicate withour customers. Four weeks later and I’m pointing out power lines and naming theequipment on the poles. I’ve gotten A’s on the first three tests and am waitingto hear what I got on the one I took yesterday.

I did read both Unlimited andReshaping It All. I highly recommend both. Unfortunately I didn’t take all thetime I should have when reading Unlimited. I definitely want to read it againslowly and do all the activities.

I did attempt to make macaronswith Ashlee. They didn’t turn out great…okay, so they weren’t even edible, butI did learn a lot while making them. I need to try them again. After all, I dowant to become a macaron master.

Practicing the guitar andcreating a budget fell to the wayside in the midst of my busyness. However,based on August, I did really good only buying needful things, and I completedbaby step number one of Dave Ramsey’s Total Money Makeover.

So what is in store for nextmonth, aside from more craziness? Well, October is about all about Attitude.

October: Attitude

-Laugh out loud

-Use good manners

-Give positive reviews

-Find an area of refuge

-Take myself on a Heather date

Fashion Friday: Elizabeth Olsen

2011-09-30T08:00:00.000-06:00

I don't think it needs to be said that I love Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen. I grew up watching Full House, their mystery videos and all their movies. Needless to say I love that their sister Elizabeth has been all over lately. She is just as adorable as MK and Ash. I was so excited to see her on the cover of the new issue of Nylon magazine. I cannot wait until mine comes in the mail!

source

easy?

2011-09-29T08:00:00.000-06:00

I cannot believe how busy life is! I don't feel like I've had time to breathe in weeks. I'm looking forward to a weekend at home. Full of sleeping in, writing, creating and more sleeping. I hope to share with you pictures and videos from my Seattle/Whistler trip. Until then, love and blessings!

BOI to IND and back again

2011-09-28T08:00:00.000-06:00

Hello friends! It has been far too long! I have been dying to come back and share what I've been up to, but I have been far too busy. As I mentioned in my last post, I went on a work trip to Indianapolis. I was pretty nervous, considering I've never traveled for work before, but I worried for nothing. It was a great trip! SUPER busy and exhausting, but so fun! Unfortunately, I managed to delete a bunch of my pictures off my phone, but thankfully I had still used my camera too. So here's a little recap of my trip. Forgive all the silly self-portraits. What's a girl to do? :)

I bought a Missoni bag from Target with a gift card from work. They wanted to let their employees know they appreciated them. I definitely feel appreciated! This bag was absolutely perfect for my trip!

Sunday

After a long day of travel, (BOI to DEN to IND), we checked into our hotel after 11pm. None of us realized that Indianapolis is on Eastern Time, we all thought it was Central. Needless to say, we all felt the jet lag. This was the view from my hotel room. Speaking of which, this was the first time I ever stayed in a hotel by myself.

Monday

We met early, set up our table, attending the openings and key note speaker. After running into a favorite customer, my boss decided my co-worker and I needed to take his wife out for lunch and shopping in the afternoon. So after a delicious lunch at Buca di Beppo, I introduced F and K to shopping H&M. After all, what fun is a per diem if you can't enjoy it? Haha!

That evening my boss took our customer, his wife, my co-workers and myself out to dinner at St. Elmo Steakhouse. It was quite the experience and some of the most expensive food I've ever eaten. I had the halibut with green beans and wine. mmm.... And of course, my boss MADE us order dessert.

This is the dress I bought at H&M. A girl can't have too many LBDs. I convinced my co-worker to get this dress in a burnt orange color.

Tuesday

T, K and I met in morning so T could help us study for our Electrical Systems test, since we missed class while we were in Indianapolis. We spent nearly four hours covering all the material, but by the end I could tell you the difference between a Grounded Wye Circuit and Delta Circuit. :) We worked up quite the appetite studying so I suggested we walk over to Jimmy Johns for lunch. The afternoon consisted of homework and talking to people.

That evening we met for a social hour and banquet. The entertainment was a ventriloquist who had many people in tears from all the laughter. From there I quickly headed up to pack and unwind with a little Keeping Up With The Kardashians.

Wednesday

Packing up and heading to the airport.

One last picture out my window.

Saying goodbye to Indiana.

Once I got home I had to study for my test the next day, unpack and repack for our Seattle/Whistler trip. I was absolutely exhausted, but somehow I managed to get it all done. And I even got a 96% on my test. :)

up in the air

2011-09-18T08:00:00.000-06:00

Today I am leaving for a work conference in Indiana. I still can't believe that I am only a temp, yet they have such faith in my abilities that they continue to invest in me. It will be a busy week, not only attending the conference with my co-workers and meeting customers, but also studying for the Electrical System class that I am taking. I will get back home Wednesday, but then after work (and a test for my class) on Thursday I will be heading back to the airport to go to Seattle/Whistler for the weekend. Needless to say my blog will be quiet this week. I hope to be back soon to share about my adventures. Until then, love and blessings.

Fashion Friday: Stripes

2011-09-16T08:00:00.000-06:00

I wore this the end of last month, but I've kept forgetting to post the pictures.

Dress: Express
Shoes: Seychelles
Belt: Target
Necklace: Premiere Jewelry
Bracelet: Gift from Jenny

The Beauty Department

2011-09-15T08:00:00.004-06:00

I'm a little late to the game, but have you check out The Beauty Department? If you are behind the times like me, it is a website run by Lauren Conrad, Kristin Ess and Amy Nadine, devoted to everything related to beauty. My blog roll is full of fashion, craft, lifestyle, faith blogs, but I haven't really found good beauty blogs.

When I stumbled across The Beauty Department I knew I'd hit the jackpot! They share tutorials and such about hair, makeup, inspiration, etc. I have been through all the pages. Twice. Okay, okay, three times. They give practical and easy tips and tricks that make me feel like EVEN I could do them. Below are links to some of my favorite posts so far.

Good Morning, Mr. Blemish!

Pin It Up, Girl! Hair Tutorial

The Long + The Short Of It Hair Tutorial

Leavin' On A Jet Plane

Blue Moon Nail Tutorial (Did this last weekend! Loved it!)

A Clean Canvas: Blow Dry Basics

Hydration Station

Guest Post

2011-09-14T11:38:00.001-06:00

Hi friends! I had the honor of writing a guest post for Noelle, over at These Mountains Are Mine. See what I have to say about singleness and relying on God. Check it out HERE!

up up update

2011-09-14T08:00:00.001-06:00

Hey loves. Besides my commandments I’ve been fairly quiet on my blog. I think it’s time for a little update. So much has been going on personally and, I guess you would say, professionally.

Personally:
If you also follow my sister’s blog, you may have seen that our cousin and her husband were approved to adopt and have been praying and searching for their baby. The last week of August and beginning of September was quite the whirlwind for them. Long story short, they are the proud parents of a six week old baby boy and are FINALLY coming home after a week of waiting for paperwork. We will be having a baby shower on Saturday and I’m thrilled. We’ve been planning and crafting like crazy to prepare. I can’t wait to show you pictures. Their story is a reminder to me of God’s beautiful faithfulness.

Sunday our church had a LONG voters meeting to make a decision about calling a new pastor to our church. I was hoping for something quick and easy, but alas, we were there for almost three hours and had to vote four or five times. A decision was reached. It wasn't exactly what I had in mind, but I know that God is bigger than my opinions and He is part of the process. If you have a moment please say a prayer for our church. Whoever we get for a pastor has quite the job ahead of him, as does the congregation.

Professionally:
I am currently waiting to be hired on permanently by this temp employer that I have been working with for the past few months. My boss is just waiting on the green light. I don’t even have to jump through hoops or do an interview. Apparently my performance has spoken volumes. The president has enrolled me and my co-worker in a 4-week Electrical Systems class to give us knowledge so we can better communicate with the customers. It’s pretty intimidating to be one of two girls in an entire class full of linemen, but it has been fun and interesting. I even got 100% on my first test! Also, I am going to my very first work conference next week. It will be me, a few co-workers and the president of the school. I am so excited! Today is a long day of training to prepare for it, but it will be worth it.

Life isn’t going how I imagined it would, but I’m enjoying every moment of it. I feel so blessed to be where I am.

source

Tuesday Inspiration

2011-09-13T08:00:00.001-06:00

Here are a few images I've found inspiring lately.

chaos

2011-09-12T09:00:00.000-06:00

"But it turns out that there are few things more chaotic than the beat of a human heart. Its beating up, slowing down. Pretty face, flight of stairs. It's always changing depending on what's happening out there. It's an erratic son of a bitch. But underneath all of that bump-da-bump mess, there is in fact a pattern, the truth, and it's love. Most important thing about love is that we choose to give it, and we choose to receive it. Making it the least random act in the entire universe. It transcends blood, it transcends betrayal and all the dirt that makes us human."
-Frank Allen Chaos Theory

Music Monday: Karmin

2011-09-12T08:00:00.000-06:00

My lovely sister, Ashlee, shared these videos of Karmin with me on Friday. I am blown away by Nick and Amy, they are so talented and super fun!

Commandment #12: There is only love

2011-09-09T08:00:00.011-06:00

I guess it is fitting that this is my last commandment, as it really sums everything up. Life is about being you, enjoying the journey, being kind, living abundantly, learning and friendships. Everyone has struggles, hardships and pain, but we also have a choice of what we make of it. I choose joy. Let go of all the rest.

When you boil down everything in life, love is really the only thing that matters. Forget the drama, the comparisons, the money problems, and the fear. Forget it all. At the end of the day, what matters the most is the people who are by your side. I am blessed with a huge, loving family who has raised me with a foundation of faith. I am blessed with dear friends who have stuck by me through tough times. I know these people will be with me until the end. Due to, um…being human, I know we will let each other down from time to time, but these are people who I know I can trust and who love me exactly as I am.

More importantly I know that I have a loving Heavenly Father who sent His only Son, Jesus into the world for me. No matter what happens in this life I know that Jesus has overcome the world by dying on the cross for me and for you. What a beautiful reminder when things get tough. God’s love conquers all. There is only love.

Commandment #11: Everything adventurous

2011-09-08T08:00:00.004-06:00

I was going to write something new about this commandment, but I realized I have already written about this before. The following is what I wrote on February 3, 2009, days after I got my tattoo.

I got a tattoo. [1.31.09]

everything adventurous
This statement is not only from a work of art by one of my favorite artists, Kurt Halsey, but it is also a statement I have come to live by.

everything adventurous
These past two years have been just that. Moving to California on my own to pursue school and ministry. Having two of my besties, Ashlee and Jenny join me in this adventure. One star for each of them.

everything adventurous
I never, with a capital EVER, thought I'd get a tattoo. But this is a reminder to me of the life I want to live and the faith I need to survive.

everything adventurous
Step out of your comfort zone. Take risks. Live life abundantly. Travel. Explore. Learn. Seek. Love.

everything adventurous
Seeking and following God's will for your life. Whole-heartedly surrendering control and your own plans and allowing God to work His best for you.

everything adventurous
Taking that step of faith. Not knowing what your future holds, but trusting in who holds your future.

Commandment #10: Stay in touch

2011-09-07T08:00:00.000-06:00

This commandment is actually more challenging for me than it sounds. Honestly, I am terrible at staying in touch with friends. It is a little easier if they live nearby, but even then I might see those friends once a month. And then there are all my friends who live out of state, maintaining those relationships is challenging.

I’m a walking contradiction. I LOVE my friendships. I THRIVE on them. I just stink at putting in the effort. My super lame excuse is that I dislike talking on the phone. I know. Lame.

I think it is safe to say that my friends know that I love them, but I want to put some action behind that love.

Friendships take a lot of work. It’s especially difficult to maintain and nurture those relationships when many of my friends are spread out all over the country. So that is where this commandment comes in. I want to make an effort. Whether it is texting more often, a comment on facebook, skyping, taking the time to write a handwritten card, sending a care package or even taking a trip, I want to be a better friend.

Dear friends,
Many of you live far from me. Others of you live close, yet we don’t see each other as often as I’d like. I miss all of you like crazy. I hate not being there and not knowing the everyday details of your life. I miss talking to you everyday about everything and absolutely nothing. I miss laughing with you. I miss going on random adventures. You have helped shape me and make me who I am. I hope and pray that you will forever be a part of my life. Thank you for allowing me to be myself with you. Thank you for accepting me as I am.

I love you dearly,
Heather

P.S. There is one friend who is like my little sister, but who I have never met in real life. Here’s a shout out to my darling friend, Amanda. We WILL meet this year! I want a picture of us together!

Commandment #9: Grow

2011-09-06T08:00:00.000-06:00

My senior year of college I took a class called Psychology of Personal Growth taught by the great Les Parrott. One of the objectives of the class was to heighten self-awareness and set goals that lead to a life of health, wholeness, interpersonal effectiveness and fulfillment. We did a variety of assignments, from writing an introduction to ourselves 10 years in the future to doing interviews with friends and family asking them to give us personal feedback. One of my favorite assignments was taking the eharmony personality test that our professor helped write. I loved it so much that I convinced all my roommates to take it too. This class was about learning about me, my strengths and weakness, setting goals and growing into a better person.

This is a commandment that has become especially important to me since finishing college. One of my favorite professors would always say that if you are not growing you are stagnant. It’s one or the other. I tend to agree. I think it’s so important to continue learning and bettering yourself. It shouldn’t stop with school or a relationship or a job. Growing and becoming is an on-going, life-long process.

See your future.
Think big.
What does it take to get there?
Ignite your passion.
Rise above your circumstances.
Accept yourself for who you are.
Set goals.
Go.
Grow.
Become.