Yet Another List

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"To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven." Ecclesiastes 3:1

I have been quiet in this space lately. It's not because I haven't wanted to write, but rather, I couldn't find my voice. In many aspects of my life, this has been a season for me to not talk. To instead, be still and know. Or, in many cases, be still and learn. Sometimes it was even, be still and just wait. And to be honest with you, it's quite comforting to shut up sometimes and not try to have the right thing to say.

While my voice has been astray, my mind has still been going as wild as ever. I've been reading some good books that have challenged me and I hope to discuss them another time. However, for this post I'd like to take a minute to look back at my list of goals I made last year and to see what goals I have cookin' for this year.

As I read through the small list of goals, I was surprised that I had accomplished almost everything I wrote down. Although it was a small list, the contents felt larger than I could handle. Seeing how each of these goals impacted my life this year encouraged me to do another one. So, here it is:

List for 2012

• I still want to get more involved with some sort of group or organization and live outside of myself while connecting to others.
• I want to be more spontaneous and a little more lighthearted.
• Continue living a more mindful and healthy life.
• Participate in something even more outlandish than Warrior Dash!
• Dedicate more time to developing my photography and writing skills.
• Spend more time in prayer.
• I want to continue to do activities or make decisions that go against who I always thought I was or would ever be. (Don't worry mom, I'm talking about positively going against my self-perceptions.)
• Finally get that tattoo I've been dreaming about. 
• De-clutter and simplify my life. 
• Live courageously enough to take each step one at a time. 
• Travel more.
• And lastly, be more reckless with my love.

My husband would probably want me to add "eat less candy" to the list, but I don't want to be foolish. I think this is a great starting point for this year, and I can't wait to review the list this time next year to see how these goals have impacted my life.

Happy New Years everyone!

It's Decided:

I need to be more decisive.

Anyone close to me knows how I struggle with this. I don't handle possibilities well, and I don't like thinking I could be making the wrong choice (even if it's what to order for lunch).

I read this blog post and it's inspired me to be more purposeful about the decisions I make, and the ones I've left undone. Here's a little sample from his post:

What happens when we don’t decide?

NOTHING. No change. no difference made. The world just continues on as it always has.
Which is precisely why we need more more decisiveness. The world deserves it. So does your art. So do you.


...Can I get an "amen"! Be sure to click through the link to read the rest of the post and possibly some of his other writings, he's very talented and each one I read challenges me.

To Grandmother's House We Go

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It's time to go and I can hardly stand it. I feel like a kid on Christmas Eve, fighting sleep because of anticipation of the coming morning.

In just a few short hours I will be making my way, along with Jakub, my parents, my brother and sister, and all of their kids, to the grand ol' city of Pataskala, Ohio. We'll be celebrating Thanksgiving with some of my favorite people on earth.

Did I mention Grandma Puckett will be there?! (you can read more about her here, if you are one of the few to not have heard of her yet). And on top of that, her food will be there in all its glory.

Since living in Oklahoma, holidays have been somewhat of a disappointment. I love big family gatherings, and frankly, we just don't have the numbers in this town. I love my family here but there's something about all the noise and laughter that I can't get enough of.

I can't wait to be with my cousins again, and for Jakub to see what Ohio is like. He hasn't met a lot of my family yet from Ohio so that will be exciting.

I hope everyone has a great week, and if you're having a difficult time coming up with something to be thankful for, I highly recommend you read this post. It opened up a whole new selection of topics for when you have to go around the table and tell what you're thankful for. Definite conversation starters, I'd say.

On The Road

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We're all loaded up! I'm taking my little family, pups and all, on a surprise getaway for Jakub's 27th birthday!

Earlier in the week I surprised him with a chance to "look at the stars" but now we'll be doing it for real. His birthday couldn't have come at a better time, and I think we're both going to enjoy this opportunity to leave every stress and frustration behind and just RELAX. That word hasn't been in our vocabulary as of late, so it will be nice to reconnect with what that looks like.

We'll be staying in a little cabin, far from the hustle and bustle of daily life. We'll definitely do some hiking and picture taking, and possibly horseback riding or even throw in a train ride here or there. Without a doubt we will be spending plenty of around a fire pit, being cuddle bugs. I'm also pretty excited that our pups will be joining us; this will be Charlie's first real outdoor adventure with us and it'll be neat to see how they react.

Well everyone, it's time for us to hit the road. Enjoy your night and I'll see you soon.

One Year

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It's been one year since I started this blog, and I'm amazed at how fast the time has gone! I'm so happy that I stepped out and took the risk of opening myself up. I think it's pretty amazing that this blog coincided with one of the most life-changing years of my life, and I'm so thankful that I was able to document some of the ups and downs and life-altering lessons I've learned along the way.

God is wild, and I'd be crazy to think the road he's led me down is anything else but to be more like him. Because of that, this has been one wild year. He has proven himself over and over this year to be true and to be beautiful.

I started this blog to document my life, knowing that I was in a liminal stage; somewhere between where I was and where I'm going. I still don't have a clear view of my future, but this year has reminded me (countless times) that it is not for me to know. Instead, I need to focus on each moment and be proud of where I am. I can't compare myself to others or what plan society would have me on; I'm on a path all my own, designed specifically for me.

I started out this year in the lowest pit of my life. Thankfully, God gave me footing and showed me that everything that was overtaking me was indeed, the most beautiful things about me. I now stand on those situations and circumstances with pride, knowing that God was with me each step of the way and he lovingly orchestrated each moment to give me hope and a future.

I learned to trust God in everything, knowing that he will not withhold anything that I need. When I prayed for understanding, he gave me wisdom. When I begged for mercy, he showered me with grace and peace. When I longed for unity, he provided a friendship unlike anything else I've ever experienced. When I asked for direction, he reminded me of who I am and why I am. And above all, he has given me the privilege of knowing how unrelenting his love is.

I don't think one thing has gone the way I planned this year. Despite how frustrating it is to see everything turned upside down and every which way but the way I wanted, I would not trade this year for anything. I'm so thankful that God sees the bigger picture and he doesn't bend to my every desire. Instead, he lovingly instructs me on a path that is terrifying and uncomfortable, knowing that it will be so much sweeter than anything my silly little imagination could doll up.

Though there is still so much pain and uncertainty around me, I am certain of one thing: God is love. I don't need to know how or when things will work out. I need to have peace in knowing that I am on the wildest adventure of my life with a God who, somehow, is wild about me and set on turning me into something he can use.

I can't even imagine what this next year will hold, but I hope to share it with you along the way!

Sweet Success

It's not easy to keep a secret from my husband, especially one that I'm so excited about.

However, the moment he opened the door to see hundreds of stars covering the room was totally worth the effort of keeping my mouth shut and being a little sneakypants.

Did you also know that I am mechanically inept? That, mixed with the original instructions being entirely in Japanese (and when I got ahold of the english manual, it showed me how to connect parts that definitely were not what I was given), made for an interesting assembly. If anyone could've witnessed the poor sight, they would've also gotten a handful of choice words. But, again, it was all worth it.

The assembly really isn't that bad, at least it wouldn't be for any normal human being. And now that it's finished, I feel like I could put another one together blind folded.

It's really neat because you can set it up to where it shows you the exact position of what the stars look like depending on what month it is and which direction you're facing and all that jazz.

 

I'm certain it's the best $22 purchase I've ever made! It makes you feel like a kid again, with the contagious excitement that anything is possible. And it can have so many uses: It can be a night light for when my nephews spend the night, or give an added effect of "realness" when we build blanket forts. It can make the days when we're stuck inside because of the weather more exciting, or just break up the everyday monotony. And most important, it can put a smile on Jakub's face.

And look how magical it looks covering an entire room!

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Or in a little nook

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It just makes your room (and life) come alive. I'm sure it'll be around for many years to come, and one day we'll get to share it with our kids. And if it breaks, hey, it was only $22 and I'll be able to try my hand at doing it blind folded. Everybody wins.

For Your Listening Pleasure

Oh boy, did you get goosebumps too?! I hope this brings you encouragement and a little pep in your step today.

I've been kindly reminded lately just how not in control I am of so many circumstances, and this song is perfect for where I am right now (and each step of the way). Hopefully I can come back soon to go into more detail but right now I have to go pick up my niece and nephews! Have a great day everyone, may he keep you and cause his face to shine upon you!

Think about it!

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Two Years

Yesterday, like most days, my husband outdid me. I wrote him a rather lovely letter, and he turned his into a piece of artwork. I got him a fun little anniversary gift, and he gave me a ring I've been pining over for quite some time.

It's a tough problem, having a more creative and thoughtful husband, but it's a problem I'll gladly keep without complaint.

I will, however, show you how we celebrated our two year wedding anniversary:

 We love exploring all the state parks and finding unexpected details of this state of ours. We'd been hoping to get away for quite some time and it just so happened that this was the first weekend we were able to, so we headed northwest to Jet, Oklahoma, to visit the Great Salt Plains State Park.

 It seems each side of this park offers something completely different. I thought those cracks were so entertaining! They would go down several inches deep and as you would step from one to another, it felt like you were walking on giant brownies! (I know, weird metaphor because most people don't step on such delicious desserts, but it's all I could imagine). It also made me feel like I was Indiana Jones because if you made one wrong step, it was lights out for you.

 Here's my fancy guy in what seemed like our own little world. It's really a strange feeling being in a place so still and calm, no leaves rustling or cars driving by, not even waves coming up to the shore; everything was still.

 The second part of our visit looked completely different from the first. There were parts that honestly reminded me of the beach in Oregon...but we are in Oklahoma?! We sat down to a great little picnic and enjoyed the beautiful weather.

 You can see the salt plains from this point. (It's the white line between the sand, that stretches for forever, and the sky).

 These two pictures are views from a pay telescope of the salt plains.

 We finally made our way to the salt plains. You can actually come and dig for crystals, but we missed the season by a day. We did however, sneak out onto the plains and explored a little bit.

 You can actually pick salt up straight from the ground! Again, in the middle of Oklahoma!

 Do you see that little mark in the middle of the plains? That would happen to be one of the most random things I've ever witnessed! There was a group of people filming some sort of video. We sat there for a while watching them do take after take, trying to figure out what the film was about. All I have to say is, it's unlike anything you've ever seen before!

 Throughout the entire trip we were, for the most part, completely alone. It felt as if we were on the moon or deserted in some crazy land (which is probably why the group decided to film here). It was such a unique trip and I'm so glad I had Jakub along for the ride.

It's been two years and it's only getting better. He's my best friend and biggest support. I honestly don't know what I'd do without this fella. Frankly, I'm glad I don't have to find out.

We've been through so much over the past few years and it's amazing to see how it has all brought us closer together. I know it's cheesy, but with him by my side, I can do anything.

Mercy

 I will sing of your mercy

That leads me through valleys of sorrow
To rivers of joy

 And though the pain is an ocean,

You have calmed greater waters;
Higher mountains have come down

--Jars of Clay

I'm about at my breaking point with all that is going on around me. Even though this is an uncomfortable--and completely bewildering--place to be, I know this is where I need to be.

I feel as though the breath has been knocked out of me and I am gasping, just waiting for it to return. 

His ways are not my ways and his knowledge goes far beyond mine. Life is relentless and I'm just thankful that I have a God in whom I can take refuge. My family, and my spirit seem to be getting attacked from every corner. There's no way I can do this on my own.

God is faithful, and his promises are true. He is mighty to save; he won't let you go. Above all, God is love. He has proven himself over and over, I have nothing to fear.

[note: I know this is vague; I can't seem to get much more out than this at this moment. Maybe one day.]

Party Time

Today, we are celebrating my nephew's birthday! He turns 11, and to commemorate this milestone I made some manly cupcakes.

Because, really, nothing says "it's time to party" like funfetti cupcakes and chocolate mustaches!

I used this as inspiration; here's how:

Step 1: Pipe melted chocolate onto wax paper in the shape of a mustache of your choosing.

Step 2: Once dried, turn over and glue toothpick on with extra melted chocolate, and let chill.

Step 3: Make sure it works!Then decorate cupcakes however you choose.

Easy as that! 1-2-3.

We're also going paintballing, something I've never done, and frankly, I'm terrified of doing. It is an experience I don't want to miss though. I'm sure after today, I'll see my family in a new light!

It's also so neat that this is the first birthday of his that I'll get to be present for, and I am so excited; he's one fancy kid! These are the times I live for.

But for now, it's time to go fight my battle. Wish me luck!

Creeping Up Behind Me

This is just beautiful. About as beautiful as my night is about to be. If you're lucky, I'll tell you about it later.

In the case that I don't get a chance to write about it (just like so many other things happening lately), just know that I'll be spending the evening with my husband and some dearly loved friends. This night is something that I need so badly right now and I'm taking full advantage of it. Love is a wonderful thing, and the fact that God brought us together! Don't get me started! This guy knows what He's doing!

Enjoy your night everyone!

Beautiful Things

Life has been much more time-consuming than I had anticipated. This season has definitely stretched me mentally, physically, and spiritually. I wish I had more time to update this blog on a regular basis, but it, among other things, has fallen by the wayside.

Fortunately, I do have a moment right now to give a little update on a few things going on around here that I am just so excited about! Like this:

Jakub and I made the coffee table of my dreams! It wasn't difficult at all, which is good for newbies like us, but it was so much fun to go through the whole process together. Plus, I think it makes our living room look so much fancier than our last "plain jane" coffee table.

We've been redecorating our house here and there and lately we've stumbled upon some great little treasures!

We found the owl money bank, butterfly pictures, and antique chinese bowl at the flea market this weekend.

And these little finds, plus a few others, were discovered this morning at an estate sale. A fancy box, old diana camera, camera filters in every imaginable color, and three fancy head scarves came home with us. We also brought home an old polaroid camera and something else that I can't quite describe--I can't figure out what it is!

I've had so much fun with Jakub, creating and scavenging for things that will make our home more "us". I especially love that my husband is the one to find the estate sales or garage sales; I don't feel like I'm having to drag him to do anything he's not interested in. I sure am blessed with this boy! He'd rather go thrifting than watch a football game--God knew what he was doing with this one! It feels so nice to have such a good fit with the man that I married, I wouldn't trade it for anything.

With everything that is going on and vying for my attention, I'm so glad that I have him by my side each day. I can't make any promises, but hopefully I'll be able to post a little more regularly. There's so much going on that I'd like to talk about. Or maybe this is a time where I need to just keep quiet and enjoy life for all that it is. I guess we'll see. Until next time, grace and peace!

A Quick DIY

Have I ever told you how much I love Pinterest? The other night it cut my work load for a project down to nothing and I thought I'd share in case any one else is having the same problem.

For some reason, our house tends to be the hot spot for solicitors. There's more salespeople knocking at my door than I can shake a stick at! The other night I had had enough and decided we needed a sign to ward off all solicitors. I looked around on the internet, at first only finding fancy signs like this one:

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This was a problem for two reasons: first, it was boring and ugly, and second, it was so boring and ugly, it might be overlooked and ineffective.

I decided I would make my own instead and went to Pinterest for inspiration. That's when I found these lovely FREE printables for such a task:

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This meant I could now spend my extra time working on some other projects we have going on around the house! After about 5 minutes of cutting and pasting, we had a sign that was attractive, would stand out, and most notably, not clash with our ugly front door! Now we wait and see if it's effective. The silence will be music to my ears!

Pinterest is certainly becoming my cure-all and I wouldn't have it any other way. If you're having any sort of problem, do yourself a favor and get on Pinterest!

I know I've been absent quite a while, I hope to be back this week with a little view of what has been going on in my life and all the lessons I'm learning!

The Beginning of The End

How do you tell your husband that his life will never be the same after today? That he will be fighting an uphill battle and possibly everything he knew about life will be thrown out the window? This is what I am struggling with today because something has captured my heart and I don't know what to do. Let me explain...

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That's right, homemade peppermint patties, and boy are they delicious! I've had this recipe saved on pinterest for a couple months now and today was the day I welcomed them into my home and I think they're here to stay. Thankfully my friend, Meg, loves this delectable treat as much as I do and so she was my partner in crime. [sidenote: I see why having an accomplice is so necessary: it lowers the feeling of guilt, and that is always a good thing.]

The recipe itself is pretty inexpensive, very easy to follow, and extremely rewarding. Before I saw this recipe, it never crossed my mind that you could actually make this at home. Never again will I be so silly. Now I just need to figure out this thing called self-control or my husband will be in for quite the surprise. You see, he doesn't share the same enthusiasm for sweet treats that I have, so he doesn't know the pull they have on me. I think once my metabolism slows down he's in for a whole lotta woman, if ya know what I mean.

If you enjoy peppermint patties, I highly recommend this recipe, but you've been warned: they mean business.

Not To Yield

To strive, to seek, to find,

 and not to yield.

-Lord Alfred Tennyson, Ulysses

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Come Again Another Day

Never has a flood light looked so miraculous! It may not seem like much to the unaided eye, but pulling up to our driveway this evening, this little light stood for so much: perseverance, ingenuity, strength, creativity, sanity, victory. Not to mention, the promised return of a cooled house.

The past 24 hours have been like a spontaneous mini-vacation for Jakub and I from reality (or to reality, I haven't decided). At first, we were so mesmerized by the rain and it's ferocity that we didn't even consider what the next few hours would hold; we just stood outside fully engulfed in the cool relief that comes when everything is crying out for rain and it finally appears.

When our lights started flickering, I had hoped the electricity would go out; I thought it would make the coming hour or so interesting. In reality, I felt like a kid again. It's the same feeling you get when hoping for a snow day. Any day of the week we could just turn out all the lights and have an evening like last night, but there's something about nature taking control that makes it all the more exciting.

I really had no idea that the power outage would last as long as it did. That's the tricky thing about being a grown up: you can't just enjoy when nature throws you a curve ball, you have to think about things like all the food in the refrigerator we bought the day before going bad. Thankfully that didn't actually happen and I got to spend a night (and the following day) with my husband completely uninterrupted by technology.

This meant we had to get creative with our time and we ended up doing something that reminded me of why I love this guy! We share so many of the same dreams and goals for our life together and that gives my heart so much peace.

We each took turns coming up with a topic for a list, and then we would each write 5 things going along with that topic and then compare lists. (Am I crazy to think that making lists is a fun idea?!) The topics ranged from things to accomplish by age 40, what we want to be known for, the top things we want to do that are out of our comfort zone, and where we'd like to retire and what we'd do in each city.

It was neat to see the types of things going on in our brains that we don't talk about regularly. It was also awesome to see how much we wanted the same things. I hope we can do this sort of activity every so often and really nurture our dreams and goals and make them a reality. I don't want to get in the way of Jakub reaching his goals and so it's important for me to know exactly what those are, and vice versa.

It was also pretty neat to compare how we each organized our lists on our paper. Mine was very neat, orderly, and balanced, and his was a jumbled mess mixed with doodlings that are out of this world. His was so chaotically organized and oozing creativity, while mine was meticulous and purposeful. That's very much the kind of people we are and it was interesting to see our personalities in something as little as list-making. (In fact, he caught me by surprise and made a mark on my paper and I almost lost it because it threw everything off! OCD, anyone?)

So, thank you rainstorm, you're welcome back any time you please.