Currently {July}

I love these posts + think they're so fun to look back on so I decided to do one of my own! 
Currently....
thinking | how is it almost August?! drinking | A Chocolate Elvis from Planet Smoothie  reading | The Beach House by Jane Green, just finished Bloom by Kelle Hampton loving | my new camera lens  wanting | this Kate Spade bag in Ballet Slipper, please! looking | forward to the beach next week listening | "Roller Coaster" by Luke Bryan (Chris Young pandora- le duh) remembering | my mile long to-do list  trying | to make plans for the weekend wishing | I was back in Charleston  planning | our annual mom/daughter send off dinner enjoying | my quiet morning day dreaming | that we were flying out to San Francisco to visit family  waiting | to get the text that my dad was release from the hospital  liking | my L.L. Bean beach bag  wondering | where I will be this time next year  needing | prayers + disernment wearing | Coast Guard tshirt + running shorts  noticing | how my roots are starting to grow in...oy. starting | to realize how fast graduation is going to come pinning | home, weddings, babies- the usual. None which are happening soon :) smelling | the peonies sitting on my nightstand  and lastly... thanking | God for so many blessings I don't deserve 

Thankful

I think Friday the 13th should've been this past Friday. The day of unlucky events. (This post is long, but the back story is needed, so feel free to stop reading if you don't want to be here all day!)
It started as I woke up to a text from a dear friend saying her dad was in a major car accident leaving him in critical condition. I was shaken by the news but tried to stay focused on my long to-do list after finding out I had an unexpected day off. So I showered, ate breakfast, and continued with my morning routine. Something still wasn't right but I couldn't figure it out. As always, God has a plan, even when we can't see the bigger picture. I ate breakfast but still felt really tired, which sort of made sense since I had a busy week and not too many days off in a long time. I decided to take advantage of my time off so I sat down on the couch and caught up on blog posts + dvd. Somehow I kept feeling like my to-do list wasn't important and knew it could wait. All of a sudden my phone goes off. A text from my dad saying not to worry but he's in the ER with stomach pains. Um hello, of course I'm going to worry!!! He never goes to the ER so I knew it must've been really bad if he took himself to the ER. (I questioned why he drove himself there too! Men.) Frantically, I called my stepmom who works at the hospital to get more details- no answer. I assumed she was downstairs waiting with my dad. Then I remembered... she was away on a girls weekend (womp.) I rushed over to the ER.
As I was walking into the hospital it was the strangest feeling and one I had never been in before. I felt like I was becoming an adult as I was literally walking into the ER. I was the one taking care of my dad, not the other way around. What if I don't know medical terms they're talking about? What if I make the wrong decision? So many "what if's" were running through my head.
I finally walked into room 28. There we waited for tests to be done and to hear the results. 3:00 pm roles around and Dr. P finally comes in to talk to us about what was going on. An emergency appendectomy is scheduled for 5:00. There were so many emotions through me. Trying not to show them was the hardest- hopefully they didn't show. Thankfully, in the mean time, my stepmom showed up after driving (like a crazy woman, I'm sure) to get to the hospital. I was so relieved when she showed up. Nothing was fully weighing on my shoulders anymore. Surgery time came and went- it was such a blur. I didn't think I needed anyone with me while he was in surgery but I'm so glad I did. Dr. P came out and told us what happened with the surgery and it was more than just the appendectomy- dealing more with inflammation the colon + everything being twisted. (No cancer or anything like that, Praise Jesus) But it was exactly what happened with my grandmother and that was how she passed away. The tears were about to start flowing and the lump in my throat grew bigger. And thankfully, they caught it in time. They took care of it before anything ruptured. I was so so thankful I almost started crying as Dr. P was explaining everything. But, it's hereditary. I need to change what I eat and become healthy. It's more than time. Although I can't necessarily prevent any of this, I can change so it doesn't become more of an issue down the road.  Through all of this I've decided to look at it with a silver lining. As I woke up (bright + early) on Saturday morning, I was a handed a "Life is Good" mug. I sat there and smiled. Yes, life IS good. God is good. Regardless of the bad situation that happened on Friday, it makes you even more thankful for the good moments. A simple reminder with a big impact. 

God was with me during this whole process. I was so peaceful because I knew He would never leave me. God sure does know how to make you stop and take everything in. I can't thank God enough for a dad who's on the mend. Please pray that his wbc count goes down so he can go home + tremendous prayers for my friend Katie's dad who is still in critical care- my heart is breaking for her. 

Oh Hey Friday

I honestly don't know how to start Friday blog posts anymore. Maybe next week I'll think of something more creative. But for now, that's all I've got.
One: Disclaimer: I am not a fashion blogger + never will be! Good thing you didn't get your hopes up ;) With nannying 24/7 (basically what it feels like) I'm wearing gym shorts/t's constantly. Don't get me wrong, it's comfy but gets old after a while (never thought I'd say wearing workout clothes constantly would get old. Ha.) It felt oh so wonderful to "dress up" and spruce it up from my normal attire. Amazing what a fresh outfit + a little bit of makeup can do! Without further ado, my favorite outfits from the week...

Two: Sam Smith. I'm obsessed.

Three: Embrace it. Love it. Own it. = my new motto! If you missed that post, you can check it out here!!

Four: I started this book early in the week, but need other summer reading recommendations!!! What's your favorite beach read? I tend to stick to the same author and story lines (Emily Giffin is a fave) but I'd love other suggestions!

Five: Some of my favorite pins from this week :)

house outfit salad camera strap summer DIY halo wreath patio furniture
Six (because I felt like it!): Reminiscing and coming across my Newlyweds DVDs this week brought it to my attention that Nick + Jessica were married 12 years ago...12!! Crazy to think. They looked so young! Although I'm glad they're both happy in new marriages w/ babies I can't help but to remember the good 'ole days! #flashbackfriday

Linking up with: Oh Hey Friday, The Grits Blog, Friday Favorites

Own it

Yesterday, I read Elise's post on Owning It. If you haven't read it, go do it now! There was something in her post that struck a cord in me. Encouragement was the first word that came to mind. I began to brainstorm things in my life that I needed to own. None of us are perfect, but there is always room for improvement.

If Elise wasn't so far away, I'd be meeting her for a cup of coffee all the time. She's someone I admire. I love her heart and her ability to share it so freely. 

Below is my list of things I'm "owning"- some serious and some silly. Believe me there are many more that should be added too :)

I'm owning...

+With my parents divorce I take marriage and having a family so much more serious than I did when I was younger. 

+In fact, I pray every day that I marry someone who is 100% "my person" because divorce scares the crap out of me & is something I never want my kids to go through 

+Being a stay at home momma with kids running around the house is something I've always dreamed of. Sitting in an office having demands thrown at me is not my type of career

+I'm missing the south like crazy, especially North Carolina

+I'm struggling with being a single lady + God's timing in that area

+Going to the gym for me is not relaxing, rather stressful

+Confrontation is not my thing. Never will be. 

+I still watch the Bachelor/ette, even if it's drama filled, my reality show guilty pleasure. Shout out to Chris...if he's the next Bachelor, sign me up!!

+I don't pray nearly as much as I should or need

+I need to learn to not be so stubborn or cold hearted in certain situations. Need to be more forgiving 

+The "Nick + Jessica" era was my favorite of celeb couples...still can't part with throwing out my Newlywed DVDs

+I have a hard time giving my heart so freely for fear of being too vulnerable

+I love a clean room, but more than likely there will be clothes thrown on the floor

+I could have girl time all the time and never get sick of my friends

+In fact, there's always time for girlfriends

+I will never be a size 2 regardless because my body isn't made that way

+Blogging will always be a stress reliever and more fun than doing homework (aka right now)

Being empowered by other women is one of the best things we can do as a community. Thank you Elise for encouraging me to share my heart!!

Weekending...a day late

Tuesday already?! Man these days are flying by! I've been finding that the busier the weekend, the harder it is to remember to take pictures. I'm slowly learning that enjoying the moment is far better than snapping the picture. Anywho...on to what happened this weekend! 

Friday- Babysat + watched The Parent Trap with my 7 year old cousin aka my "mini me" It was her first time watching and she loved it! A girl after my own heart!

Saturday- Babysat...again. This time it was three precious little girls; cousins on my Dad's side. Of course I brought my new lens and tested it on these beauties. We also snuggled, watched movies + played outside. Saturday night I met up with a few friends. Being able to relax and socialize was exactly what I needed.  

Sunday- Babysat again...HA just kidding! I started Decision Point and had some quiet time in the morning before church. From the first few chapters I already love the program! The questions are easily relatable. I'm excited to see what the rest of the program has in store! Saturday afternoon I laid by a friends pool. Pure relaxation + sunshine + too many laughs to count...it was PERFECT!!! Why can't every weekend be like that?! 

Oh Hey Friday! {Randomness}

This week has felt like a loooong one. Monday felt like centuries ago! Friday, I am welcoming you with open arms- as always! :)
ONE |  I'm in major need of a beach day/weekend getaway. Working 5-6 days a week takes a toll on a girl after a while! Don't get me wrong, I love my job(s) + kiddos, but escaping from the everyday routine is a must. Hopefully the weather cooperates this weekend to escape for some R + R. Until then, I'll be dreaming of sun, sand + an ocean breeze! Check out what's in my beach bag...

beach bag | bathing suit | cover up | EOS | phone case | towel | sunscreen {best one I've found yet} | cosmetic case | hat | sunglasses |
TWO | Earlier this week, a little box arrived in the mail. Drum roll...my new camera lens!!! A Canon 50mm f/1.4 is now in my possession. True confession: it was more exciting than Christmas. In the few minutes after opening the box and quickly snapping a few pics, I realized how great this purchase was! I can't wait to use it and test it out more. An lens update will be coming later, I promise!! 

THREE |

Protein shakes in watermelon tumblers make me happy. Oh and Jules Kale pizza- it's delicious + healthy!! 

FOUR |
My sweet Momma surprised me with a set of wine glasses this past week, beach themed of course! She knows me too well!! Two of my favorite things: the beach + wine :)I'm glad she's starting my wine glass collection because they're super cute. Excited for girls nights and be able to use these glasses!

FIVE |

Of to the pool with the kiddos! #LifeOfASummertimeNanny {More on my new beach bag later!}

Have a great weekend!! Hope y'all have something fun planned!!

P.S. I posted my 101 in 1001 list earlier in the week! If you missed it, you can check it out HERE!

Linking up with: Oh Hey Friday, Friday Favorites, Meet @ the Barre 

101 in 1001

I've seen "101 in 1001" posts floating around for quite a while in blogland. However, it wasn't until recently that I got the itch to look into the idea further. I was pretty intimidated at first and was afraid what people would think of my list. What if they thought my goals were "silly"or "weird?" So I sat + revised, sat + revised until I was happy with my goals. I was inspired by so many bloggers and even took a few ideas here and there! Thinking about all of these goals got me so excited. 

If you've never heard of "101 in 1001" I can imagine that you're super confused. "101 in 1001" is a list of 101 things/goals you plan to do in 1001 days (2.75 years); a bucket list of sorts. For the first time I don't feel pressured like I have in the past with bucket lists or New Year's resolutions. This approach allows each of us to learn to live in the moment + doing things now, to experience life. Life is meant to be fun and spontaneous. Each of the goals listed below seem so obtainable, which is what I love so much about this idea!

Start date: July 16, 2014 End date: April 12, 2017 I used this to calculate my dates. 
101 in 1001

• Come up with 101 things
• Inspire someone to write their own list! Email me if you do! :)

For others: (0/6)

• 10 random Acts of Kindness (0/10)
• Write 10 handwritten notes (0/10)
• Host a themed dinner party
• Send flowers to a friend
• Write a letter to my future husband (who I haven't met yet!)
• Call/text my Dad once a week for two months

For the blogger: (0/11)

• Write a post for every task completed (if possible)
• Guest post for a blogger
• Post 3x a week for one month
• Create a book of my favorite blog posts written
• Host a giveaway
• Have an encouraging blog series
• Reach 500 published posts
• Participate in a blog swap
• Send out 10 packages to blog friends (0/10)
• Have a friend take a portrait(s) for my blog
• Redesign my blog

For the girl who loves pampering: (0/8)

• Be in bed by 10:30pm every night for one week
• Spend a whole day reading
• Spa day with girls at Hershey Hotel
• Get my hair done at DryBar
• Get a full body massage
• Subscribe to 3 magazines that I spend too much money buying anyway
• Spend a rainy day in jambes watching movies all day
• Find the perfect shade of red lipstick {and pull it off}

For the goal setter: (0/17)

• Write a letter to myself to be opened when the 1001 days are over
• Be social media free for one day
• Be social media free for three weekends
• Complete a jigsaw puzzle of at least 500 pieces
• Write 5 good things that happened every day for one month
• Add 3 new charms to my Pandora bracelet
• Find my signature cocktail
• Answer "50 questions that will free your mind"
• Throw out 20 things and don't replace them
• Read 20 new books (0/20)
• Start and finish a full series on Netflix
• Make a list of 101 positive things about myself
• Refrain from buying anything other than necessities for a month (no "wants")
• Celebrate graduating from college with the girls
• Watch the sunrise + sunset in the same day
• Cash in two mason jars worth of change into my savings
• Put $5 into savings for every goal completed

For the adventurer: (0/17)

• Learn a new sport
• Learn calligraphy
• Milk a cow
• Learn how to properly make a flower arrangement
• Take a spontaneous road trip with my best friends
• Visit a new state
• Renew my passport
• Attend a taping of Ellen
• Visit a winery
• Attend a wine tasting
• Meet Katelyn James
• Go to NYC at Christmastime
• Visit 5 new cities (0/5)
• Visit North Carolina again
• Swim with Dolphins
• Have dinner on a rooftop patio
• Try 10 new restaurants (0/10)

For the planner + organizer: (0/3)

• Purchase (my first!) Emily Ley planner
• Organize my Pinterest boards (at least once)
• Organize my pictures + documents on my computer (at least once)

For the creative gal: (0/9)

• Create an inspiration notebook
• Take a painting class with friends
• Start a recipe binder
• Attend a photography workshop
• Do 10 projects found on Pinterest (0/10)
• Start an address book
• Complete a Photo365 challenge
• Create a binder of apartment/ dream house designs + furnishings
• Photograph a landscape from the same location, capturing all 4 seasons and frame them together

For the fitness seeker: (0/5)

• Create a healthier lifestyle
• Get to a goal weight + maintain it
• Drink only water for a week (no tea, coffee, soda)
• Run a Color Run
• Eat clean for one week (no processed foods) + blog about it

For the professional: (0/7)

• Take the GRE
• Graduate w/ my Bachelors in Communication Science and Disorders
• Graduate w/ my Masters in Speech Language Pathology
• Get a new certificate
• Accept an SLP job
• Have my own classroom
• Make lessons for Teachers Pay Teachers

For the Faith seeker: (0/6)

• Complete a bible study from #SheReadsTruth
• Read through Proverbs 31
• Fill a prayer journal
• Put together a book of 100 verses/ quotes
• Write short gospel verses on 10 rocks with sharpie + throw them back onto the beach
•  Complete Decision Point

For the investor: (0/8)

• Purchase something from Kate Spade
• Invest in good hair products 
• Purchase stationary
• Find 5 "me" prints for my future apartment (0/5)
• Invest in a classic handbag
• Purchase a new camera lens
• Invest in a classic work pump + wedge
• Find my first apartment

• Use the money saved to buy something special
• Make a new list! 

Linking up with: WYWW, The Hump Day Blog Hop, Random Wednesday

July Goals

How is it already the middle of July?! The last time I posted was 12 days ago...yikes!! This hiatus has been completely unintentional. But sometimes, it just happens. Work and life are keeping me busy and I wouldn't have it any other way :) Hence why blogging got put on the back burner. I do miss writing and posting but coming home at 7pm and putting a blog post together doesn't work out too well. Alas, two weeks into July- here are my goals. 
Let's take a look back at June's goals first. 

Be intentional with more "me" time- focusing on my Faith/possible Bible study and journaling I've been looking into bible studies to see which one fits me best

Exercise 5 days a week + Clean Eating- need to get back on track- there's no other way to say that :) using the "I'm busy" excuse is no longer acceptable WHY IS THIS SUCH A STRUGGLE?! Does anyone have ideas to get back into the swing of things??

Finish 2/3 summer classes- Tomorrow they will be finished. one. more. day. WOO! Yes! Classes are done! The third and last class is in progress right now. In fact, I should be working on the assignment ;)

Begin to grow my blog- connecting with more bloggers, possible sponsorships and (hopefully!) increasing my followers  Okay, well this kind of happened

Update the tabs on my navigation bar! Done!

Schedule posts and keep up with writing! Er, well, this one didn't happen!

Read 2 books and start a summer reading list- this could be a bit of a challenge, but we'll try ;) Does reading one and starting another count?!

Use my camera more!! (And possibly purchase a new lens!!?) one of my biggest passions is photography. For my high school graduation project I shadowed 4 different photographers and it was an AMAZING experience. I loved every minute of it. However, as a college student I haven't had the time, which makes me sad because I love it and really, really miss it...So, this month's goal is to take more pictures!!  This actually happened

Have more "girl time" with my besties- this one's a given and needs no explanation :) Yes!! Woohoo! Loved seeing my girls more than just twice a year!

Try something new/do something different- possibly a new hairstyle and color...any ideas?? :) I did both! Hair cut + color...even went to a new salon!! LOVED it. More on this later :)

At least one beach trip... sand and saltwater is good medicine for this girls soul! We actually tried!! This month it's actually happening! 

Early to bed, early to rise- so I can be more productive

ENJOY JUNE. Sit and soak it all in. Enjoy the little moments. Sunshine, friends, and family. A few pool days and fruity drinks too :) This did happen, so that's all that matters, right?!

-Finish the book that I'm reading before I start a new one
-Purchase a new camera lens
-Post at least 5 more times
-Have a beach trip
-Clean out + organize my closet 
Easy to accomplish! Hope y'all had a great Monday!

Monthly Faves {June}

First off, Happy JULY!!  I hope June treated y'all well!! I'm happy to be linking up with Mia and Kelli today for for Monthly Faves! 
 
one: {Very Berry Hibiscus Refresher} Imagine you're driving with the windows down, sunroof open, music blaring, hair blowing all around all while sipping on very berry hibiscus refresher. It's a summer drink by far!
two: {The Fault In Our Stars} The ending. The ugly sobs. During the movie, I kept thinking I can't believe I'm not crying yet- everyone talked about how much they cried and I hadn't even shed a single one. Then, it hit me like a ton of bricks. Cold, hard, ugly sobs. Trying to contain most of the crying so the other movie watchers wouldn't think I was a complete psycho. Although I did hear other sniffles  so it didn't make me feel so bad. Regardless, if it watch TFIOS again at home, I'd be a basket case all over again. 
three: {It's a 10 Leave In Conditioner} Best. Detangler. Ever. 
four: {EOS lip balm} Late to jumping on the bandwagon! Picked this up as an imp use at the CVS register- pomegranate  flavor. I see the serious obsession. Wasn't a fan of the price at first, but soon found out it was well worth it!
five: {Brow Zings} My new favorite beauty product
six: {Endless Weekend Soap} By far the BEST scent ever. Bath and Body Works, you rock!! New favorite smell. I bought the soap then went  back to buy the candle and they were all sold out. Womp. Guess that's what I deserve for waiting to get the candle! But seriously, go buy the soap. You'll thank me later!
Go over and linkup with Mia and Kelli- I'd loved to see your June faves! Happy early 4th!!