Resolutions and words of the year are my spirit animals. But, truthfully, they don't mean much unless you actually take the time to implement them. Every year, about mid-January, we hear about folks falling off the wagon, so to speak, with all those good intentions. But you know, we never hear about those that get back on it, even though they fail. January gets a lot of press for being the "goal-making" month, but you can set a goal anytime. Achieve it anytime. Get serious about it anytime. So, what are you waiting for? Last year, my word was "possibility." I had no idea what God was going to do with it, so I just tried to be open to the Holy Spirit. It turned out to be a magnificent year. Yes, there were lots of low points - no year is without them - and hard spots. That's life. But, daaaaaang if God didn't show me what was possible. I was blown away. This year, I chose a hyphenated word which means it's still one word, right? My blog, my rules. Ha! What does it even mean? I'll tell you. For me, it's first and foremost about facing the things I've been putting … [Read More...]
Let’s Get Something Straight About Christmas Trees
Every December 26 I see it. And, I'm pretty sure you do, too. Friends and neighbors put their Christmas trees out for recycling. How dare they, right? Don't they know that the Christmas season lasts twelve full days? Don't they know they should leave their trees up until at least Epiphany? Oh gracious, y'all. Let me just state this up front: the decor of your house does not dictate the … [Read More...]
2018 Gift Guide
Last year, I did my first-ever gift guide and y'all loved it so much (and so did I) that I decided to do it again! On Thanksgiving Day, as I scrolled through my Instagram feed I was so tempted to fall prey to all the sales! and the deals! and the really, really good things on the interwebs! Because, truly, there are so many wonderful creators out there making some fabulous things for our homes, … [Read More...]
The Easiest Family Photos on Vacation. Ever.
**This post contains affiliate links.** I love to take photos, just ask my kids. When we're on vacation, I'm usually behind the camera which means I have tons of pictures of my kids and Scott but very few of us all together. Two years ago, I discovered Flytographer just before our 20th wedding anniversary trip to Europe. We got the most spectacular pictures of us. I mean, like … [Read More...]
My Friend Haley Wrote a Book & It’s More Than Good Enough
*This post contains affiliate links* When your friend writes a book and you're pretty darn proud of her, you want other people to know just how good it is. First, I want you to know a bit about Haley because I think it helps you understand her book a little better. She's the mama of four and she and her husband live in Waco, right up the road from me here in Austin. She has impeccable taste in … [Read More...]
East Coast Adventure: Sweet, Sweet North Carolina
Over the next few days, I'll be sharing bits and pieces of our epic road trip to the east coast. It was 13 days filled with joy, sibling fights, a bazillion rest stops, one major meltdown on the side of I-10, great memories and lots of hugs with awesome people. Oh, and we saw a ton of cool stuff, too. You can read all about it by city: New Orleans, LA; Atlanta, GA; Charlotte, NC; Washington, D.C. … [Read More...]
Luke is officially NINE (and he has one request!)
Every year, I think this day will be easier. Every year, I think the strides Luke has made won't surprise me. Every year, I think I will fully comprehend how much he has changed us. And every year I am wrong. Luke, nine sure came fast. It was an honor to write this year's birthday letter. There is one small thing you've asked for your birthday and I hope everyone reading this can oblige. … [Read More...]
East Coast Adventure: (Not) Hotlanta
Over the next few days, I'll be sharing bits and pieces of our epic road trip to the east coast. It was 13 days filled with joy, sibling fights, a bazillion rest stops, one major meltdown on the side of I-10, great memories and lots of hugs with awesome people. Oh, and we saw a ton of cool stuff, too. You can read all about it by city: New Orleans, LA; Atlanta, GA; Charlotte, NC; Washington, D.C. … [Read More...]
