tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9657694690872190592024-03-05T04:02:11.951-05:00Brown TownWalking the road of life togetherChristinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07542164015677602211noreply@blogger.comBlogger197125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-965769469087219059.post-46296547028219017272013-05-05T19:03:00.002-04:002013-05-05T19:03:25.587-04:00Back in Action<span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Hi there friends, if anyone is still out there. It's been a long time. I just needed a break and as my dad said I had "blogger block". During my little hiatus, I've been focusing a lot on life in general. We have been super busy with life. Nothing too exciting, just go go go. </span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">One of my main focuses has been choosing a healthier lifestyle. After the new year, I vowed to get back in shape. After going through some rough things I realized that I had put on at least 20 pounds since we got married. 20 pounds! That is not me at all. I've always been active and I've loved working out, but over the last couple of years that has slipped away. My motivation was gone. As I've written about before I went through a rough time with certain people in my life and I truly think that had a big impact on how I cared for myself and my self-confidence. Well friends, I am happy to report that that person is not here anymore. The new improved me is here with a new body! I started this huge feat with Shaun T and Insanity at my side. If you have not heard of Insanity, it is a 60 day workout program that whoops your butt into shape. Seriously, the hardest workouts I've ever done, but I loved it! It was so rewarding to complete it. I can officially say that with Insanity I lost 15 lbs. and since I finished it I've lost a grand total of 21 lbs. </span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">So that's not all I've been up to, but it is a major part of where I've been. I'm hoping to make my way back into the blogging world. Hope you all are doing well.</span></span> Christinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07542164015677602211noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-965769469087219059.post-91354197876064456762013-01-27T18:59:00.003-05:002013-01-27T19:00:36.456-05:00Ikea Hack<span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">We have been wanting to add a pop of aqua in our living room as well as add a new cabinet to replace the old bookshelf we had, so off to Ikea we went. We love Ikea! I mean how can you not love Ikea? It's cheap, modern, functional, and they have the #1 combo at the snack bar! We often make a day of it when we go to Ikea. I knew we could find a cabinet that would work; however, the old black-brown color was getting old and then inspiration hit! Let's do an Ikea hack! If you know me at all, you know that teal/aqua/blue-green is my favorite color in the whole world and that was the automatic thought for this cabinet. We found the cabinet we loved and then it was on with the creative juices. So here it is, our first Ikea hack, along with step by step instructions in case you get inspired :)</span></span><br />
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<b><span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Materials:</span></span></b><br />
<span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Piece of laminate furniture</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Plastic covering for floor </span></span><br />
<span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Zinser primer </span></span><br />
<span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Paint color of your choice (we got lucky and found an "oops" paint in the exact color we wanted)</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Brushes and mini rollers</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Sandpaper</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Minwax Polycrylic </span></span><br />
<span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">A handy hubby </span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br />
</span></span><span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">1. Find the piece of furniture you love. Consider the size, shape, functionality, etc. Don't worry about the aesthetics because that's what you are going to change. </span></span><br />
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</span></span><span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">2. Prime the bookshelf all over. No sanding required! Let the first coat completely dry then recoat with a second.</span></span><br />
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</span></span><span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">3. Once the primer is dry you can paint! </span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">
</span></span><span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">4. Let the paint dry completely. If you want to you can add some texture and distress the piece. We used sandpaper along the edges to give it a shabby-chic look. </span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br />
</span></span><span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">5. Polyurethane the entire piece. This will seal the look. I recommend using a sponge instead of brush, this will avoid air bubbles. </span></span><br />
<span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br />
</span></span><span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">6. Let the poly dry and voila, you have a beautiful customized piece of furniture!!</span></span> <span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">I think it came out great!</span></span><br />
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<br />Christinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07542164015677602211noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-965769469087219059.post-13977867329576265902013-01-06T17:04:00.002-05:002013-01-06T17:04:43.254-05:00Pinned It. Did It.<span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Today, Brandon and I were cleaning out our fridge before going grocery shopping. Needless to say out fridge shelves were disgusting. There was crud that had leaked and sticky stuff all over. It was gross! With a wrinkled nose I tried to think of a way to avoid this happening again. Then I remembered this fun little pin I pinned on Pinterest. It was for DIY shelf mats that are easily washable. YAY! I went and found the pin and it was so easy! All you need are plastic place mats. Target sells cute patterned ones, so off to Target we went. All you have to do is cut the mat to size using regular scissors and voila! You have a cute and functional fridge shelf again. You can put the mats in the dishwasher and it saves you the headache of removing all the shelves and cleaning them by hand. I'm all for less dish washing!</span></span><br />
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Christinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07542164015677602211noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-965769469087219059.post-56458034151888115672012-12-31T17:14:00.003-05:002012-12-31T17:31:11.331-05:002012- A Look Back<span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">2012 was a great year. It wasn't filled with major life transitions or monumental events, but it was filled with the people I love. </span></span><br />
<span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><i>January</i>: We went to 12 straight nights of <b><a href="http://brandonandchristinabrown.blogspot.com/2012/01/12-days.html">Code Orange Revival</a></b> at church and it was an amazing way to start the new year.</span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><i>February</i>: We celebrated <a href="http://brandonandchristinabrown.blogspot.com/2012/02/love-week-2012.html"><b>Love Week</b></a> at church.</span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><i>March</i>: We went to the <a href="http://brandonandchristinabrown.blogspot.com/2012/03/something-beautiful.html"><b>NeedtoBreathe</b></a> concert.</span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><i>April</i>: We traveled to <a href="http://brandonandchristinabrown.blogspot.com/2012/04/spending-time.html"><b>Atlanta</b></a> for a few days during Spring Break.</span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><i>May</i>: We<a href="http://brandonandchristinabrown.blogspot.com/2012/05/adventures.html"><b> traveled a lot</b></a>. We went to Wilmington for my sister's graduation and then to Edisto for Brandon's cousin's wedding.</span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><i>June</i>: We went to <a href="http://brandonandchristinabrown.blogspot.com/2012/06/you-stay-classy-san-diego-part-1.html"><b>San Diego</b></a> and I volunteered at <a href="http://brandonandchristinabrown.blogspot.com/2012/06/camp-658.html"><b>Camp 658</b></a> with some amazing kids. Oh yeah, and Brandon broke his ankle.</span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><i>July</i>: I watched one of my closest friends get married. We celebrated the <a href="http://brandonandchristinabrown.blogspot.com/2012/07/we-heart-olympics.html"><b>Olympics</b></a> and were glued to the t.v. for the next month.</span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><i>August</i>: We celebrated our second wedding <a href="http://brandonandchristinabrown.blogspot.com/2012/08/two.html"><b>anniversary</b></a>! Oh and school started back.</span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><i>September</i>: We went to Myrtle Beach for Labor Day and my cousin got married.</span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><i>October</i>: We went to Raleigh for our annual Wolfpack football game and we got tickets to the Panthers game that same weekend. Brandon began traveling for work and was in <a href="http://brandonandchristinabrown.blogspot.com/2012/10/im-back.html"><b>Florida</b></a> for two weeks, so I went to visit!</span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><i>November</i>: We ran the <a href="http://brandonandchristinabrown.blogspot.com/2012/11/color-me-happy.html"><b>Color Run</b></a>!</span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><i>December</i>: We went to the Panthers game, celebrated <a href="http://brandonandchristinabrown.blogspot.com/2012/12/christmas-recap.html"><b>Christmas</b></a>, and prepared to ring in the <a href="http://brandonandchristinabrown.blogspot.com/2012/12/13-in-13.html"><b>new year</b></a>. </span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Bring it on 2013!! I know it will be great!!!</span></span>Christinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07542164015677602211noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-965769469087219059.post-75215143770321412782012-12-28T17:03:00.002-05:002012-12-28T17:04:17.194-05:0013 in 13<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Resolutions, I've tried them. I am filled with good intentions, but I don't follow through. Why is that? Routine is so much easier than change and transition. It takes much less effort. This year I am not looking at it as a resolution because clearly that does not work. I want to be more intentional in some areas of my life and that is where I am going to focus. Instead of setting unrealistic resolutions, I'm going to pick 13 things I hope to do in 2013. Some may be similar to resolutions, but I am going to be intentional about them, more realistic. So here is my 13 in 2013.</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">1. Be more intentional in my personal relationship with Christ. I want
to read the Bible more and focus on quiet time with Him each day.</span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">2. Focus more on being healthy. I want to make working out a part of my weekly routine. It's not just about working out, but taking better care of my body and making time to build my confidence. My goal is to lose 20 lbs. and maintain a healthy weight and lifestyle. </span></span><br />
<span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">3. Try to keep my house cleaner. It's no secret, men are slobs. I want to try to make it a priority to clean up after myself and encourage him to do the same. I want to take more pride in my home.</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">4. Try to cook at least three times a week. Yes, I know 3 is low, but I struggle to even hit one night nowadays, so I figure three is realistic.</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">5. Paint the master bathroom and guest bedroom.</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">6. Use the old window I bought and frame a photo.</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">7. Try 10 new restaurants around our city.</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">8. Start couponing.</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">9. Learn more about photography and take time to build a hobby of it. Less lazy time, more learning.</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">10. Be more intentional on doing small things that honor my husband and show him I care.</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">11. Be intentional in my friendships. Keeping in contact and making effort to build these relationships with women who build me up.</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">12. Make a budget and stick to it.</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">13. Run a 10k. Hopefully, the Cooper River Bridge run. </span></span>Christinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07542164015677602211noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-965769469087219059.post-6241992235966638572012-12-27T10:00:00.000-05:002012-12-27T10:00:02.994-05:00December Cara Box Reveal <div class="Wifessionals-button" style="margin: 0 auto; width: 200px;">
<a href="http://wifessionals.blogspot.com/p/cara-box-exchange.html"><img alt="Cara Box" src="http://i1161.photobucket.com/albums/q501/Wifessionals/CaraBoxButton.png" height="200" width="200" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Okay, it's that time for the Cara Box reveal over at <b><a href="http://www.wifessionals.com/">Wifessionals</a></b>! This month's theme was "Holiday Sparkle". So fun! This month was a little different because you did not swap with the person who sent you your box. You had one person send to you and a different girl to send a box to. That way you get to know two amazing women! I had the pleasure of sending my box to <b><a href="http://theboyslockerroom.blogspot.com/">Nicole</a></b> and this month the lovely <b><a href="http://www.katyandclay.com/">Katy</a></b> was my sender. She sent me such a cute and thoughtful box. I loved it! Both of their blogs are adorable and you should go check them out. Katy sent me such a thoughtful box and it truly brightened my holiday spirit. Here are the cute goodies she sent. Thanks Katy!!</span></span><br />
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<br />Christinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07542164015677602211noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-965769469087219059.post-80295670183425394452012-12-26T18:26:00.003-05:002012-12-26T18:26:49.617-05:00Christmas Recap<span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">I hope you all had an amazing Christmas yesterday. I know we sure did. It started Christmas Eve when we spent the afternoon with my Grandma. She has Alzheimer's and we were blessed to be able to spend the afternoon with her at her assisted living center. Following lunch with her, we headed to Christmas Eve service at church. This year's theme was Timeless Christmas. The message of salvation was preached and after the weekend was done over 2200 people proclaimed new life in Christ!! Glory!! The service was amazing and the message was timeless.<span style="color: black;"> <span style="color: #444444;">They also did this really amazing video involving a piano which you can see <b><a href="http://www.stevenfurtick.com/elevation-creative/elevation-creative-in-your-presence-christmas-piano-remix/">HERE</a></b></span></span>. </span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"> We woke up Christmas morning and shared our traditional breakfast just the two of us. Brandon always makes his famous french toast, which almost didn't happen this year because at 11:00 Christmas Eve I realized we didn't have any syrup,but being the loving husband that he is, Brandon ran out to the only store that was open (Walgreens) and bought some syrup. Love him! Anyways, so we had our delicious french toast breakfast and then it was on to our presents. We always swap gifts Christmas morning before heading to our families' houses for lunch and dinner. This year, Brandon was way too good to me. Y'all! I got a Canon T3i!!! I'm so pumped. It is intimidating because I know nothing about photography, but I am eager to learn. I also got tickets to see the Lion King when it comes to town, which happens to be the night before our anniversary, how perfect is that?! He seriously is the best! I made Brandon do a scavenger hunt around the house to find his big Christmas gift and he finally found out that we are going to see Jeff Dunham's comedy show in a few weeks! Of course we couldn't leave out of furbabies and they each got some fun treats as well. </span></span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sheldon Cooper Quote mug, we are huge Big Bang Theory Fans</td></tr>
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<span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">After
Christmas morning, we headed to Brandon's mom's house for lunch. We
got some pretty sweet gifts there as well, including a new Keurig!
Also, I get to go see Wiked!!!!! Tickets to see two shows! 2013 is
going to be the best. Following lunch, we went to my parents' house for
our annual steak dinner. I got lots of clothes and oh yeah, my mom got
me tickets to see Taylor Swift, who is in concert the night before my
birthday!! Seriously 2013 is the year of shows. </span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Christmas was an amazing time to spend time with family and to receive lots of fun gifts, but the most amazing gift of all was sent by way of our Heavenly Father. Time stood still as a little baby cried in a manger and it was announced that our Savior had come. I am so thankful that Christ was born and that He died to redeem us. What an amazing Christmas gift!!</span></span>Christinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07542164015677602211noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-965769469087219059.post-5244066378981407802012-12-10T08:00:00.000-05:002012-12-10T08:00:06.617-05:00A Letter to You<span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">If any of you have been reading this blog for any length of time you know that I went through a period where I was deeply hurt by some friends in my life at that time. The residual effects are crazy, but God is good and He's preparing me for something greater. As I was laying in bed last night praying I couldn't get the situation off of my mind. This is not something new. I often think about it. I think I just want to be heard. I want them to know that I still think about them and that it kills me that they aren't part of my life anymore, even though I know I am probably better off. So, as I was writing this letter in my head I decided to put it out there. Part of the healing process you know, taking it from your heart to paper (or type in this case). I have sat down to write this countless times, so if it doesn't make sense or doesn't flow that's okay because it just free flowing from my heart. </span></span><br />
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<span style="color: purple;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Dear Friend,</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"> As I watch from afar and see our lives continually drift further and further apart I can't help but wonder... was it something I said, was I the cause of this divide? I'm sure I had a part to play; it takes two. I hope you know that I'm sorry for the role I played in this whole thing. </span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">This whole situation is just unbelievable. Two years ago I would have told you that you're crazy if you said that we wouldn't be speaking today. Two years ago I thought we would be there for each other for our weddings, babies, and being called twins in our old age just as we were in our teenage years. Our husbands would still be best friends just as we were, our babies would become best friends, and life would never change. Unfortunately, that picture is shattered, broken on the floor. I stare down at the pieces and think, what happened? I know what happened on the surface, but I still find myself baffled, not understanding why. </span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">I wish you could sit in my shoes and see what I've been through. Maybe then you would understand. There have been moments where I really should have sought out counseling, but I was too prideful and stuck. Yes, ironic, a counselor embarrassed to go to counseling. There were plenty of moments where I questioned myself and threw up my guard to avoid the pain and to protect myself from getting hurt. I was afraid to open myself back up because the one friend I never thought would abandon me did. I've struggled with bitterness, unforgiveness, jealousy, resentment, anger, and all the nasty little feelings in between. </span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Despite all of that, I find myself still missing you. Even though my life is completely different than it was, I still wonder if we will ever run into each other or if you will ever reach out to mend things. I wonder how it would be if we just said we're sorry. I wonder... </span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">But most of all, I want you to know that I forgive you. I've finally been able to free myself from that piece of the bitterness puzzle. Am I healed? No. Am I on my way? Yes. The Lord really does reveal Himself through our pain and trials. I'm trusting that this is just a piece of my journey and I truly believe it is shaping me into the person I am meant to me. I'm grateful for the time we were best friends and will never forget the memories we made together. They made my life more beautiful. Who knows what people will walk in and out of my life over the years to come, but I'm trusting that Lord has a plan even if it means breaking me down and building me into something new. For it is not my plan, but His. So, that's my heart and the words that have been bottled up for a while, too long. I'm putting myself out there and trusting in Him. For He is the almighty healer, the only counselor I need, and a friend that sticks closer than a brother. He knows what He's doing and I believe that whether or not we ever come together again it is meant to be.</span></span> Christinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07542164015677602211noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-965769469087219059.post-36512814671552200602012-12-06T19:18:00.001-05:002012-12-06T19:18:43.745-05:00Insta-Christmas<span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">This is just a look around our house and at all the holiday decorations! We love decorating for Christmas, but I refuse to put anything up before Thanksgiving. So, the weekend after Thanksgiving it was an all go! All the lights, sparkle, and warmth are so fun! I finally caved this year and let Brandon have a SMALL blowup for the front yard. What have I done??!! Anyways, here you go Christmas at the Brown's via Instagram!</span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">On another note, this is our Christmas card photo and I think it's super adorable! I love my little family!</span></span></div>
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<br />Christinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07542164015677602211noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-965769469087219059.post-75016618692671704392012-12-03T20:34:00.000-05:002012-12-03T20:34:55.233-05:00Lessons from Middle School<span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Working as a middle school counselor takes you back to a time of raging hormones, drama filled hallways, self-loathing, insecurity, and all things age 13. Not a fun time. I often tell my students "yeah, middle school is hard, but I promise you will get through it." To be honest with you, I don't even really remember middle school. I think I blocked it out. I remember snapshots of moments, but nothing concrete. Still, I find myself learning lessons from middle school. </span></span><br />
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<b><span style="color: purple;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Lesson #1: You are fearfully and wonderfully made</span></span></b><br />
<span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">My girls at school are so beautiful, I mean stunning. Why can't they see it? Ah, I remember those days...oh wait I still feel that way. I find myself telling them daily, you are beautiful, you are loved, you is smart, you is kind...oh wait that's The Help. But seriously, you would think being 12 years removed from middle school I would be more secure and less self-conscious. Sure, I'm more comfortable with who I am, but I still have my moments. They creep in and say "you're not skinny enough, your freckles are not cute, you need a better wardrobe" and my 13 year old self rears its ugly head. Seriously girls, we are beautiful, fearfully and wonderfully made by a Creator who placed every hair on our head. How amazing is that??</span></span><br />
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<b><span style="color: purple;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Lesson #2: Girls are mean</span></span></b><br />
<span style="color: purple;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="color: #444444;">Okay, I already knew that, but seriously! The number one issue I deal with as a counselor is girl drama. Girls are mean. I hate to say it, but this catiness does not go away in adulthood. I have learned that the only person you can control is yourself. If you act in a Christ-like manner and treat your fellow sisters as precious and worthy then you can be content. No, it doesn't take the pain away from being left out, stabbed in the back, ditched for someone more glamorous, whatever you go through, but it does show everyone that you are a warrior, a soldier. </span></span></span><b><span style="color: purple;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"> </span></span></b><br />
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<b><span style="color: purple;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Lesson #3: Don't sweat the small stuff</span></span></b><br />
<span style="color: purple;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="color: #444444;">My middle schoolers get so bent out of shape about the smallest, most insignificant things. They wear blinders. Middle school gives you tunnel vision. Seriously, they can't see 3 years ahead of that horrible 7th grade year. I promise you life is beautiful and it does get better. I used to be the worst perfectionist and a huge worry wart. I still have those tendencies, but my motto these days is "it is what is is". If I can't control it, I try not to sweat it. That's a lesson I see every day in middle school<b> </b>and it takes growing pains to learn it. </span></span></span><b><span style="color: purple;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br /></span></span></b><br />
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<span style="color: purple;"><b><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Lesson #4: You are stronger than you know</span></b></span><br />
<span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Middle school can make you feel defeated, insignificant, unnoticed, lost, but you are always stronger than you think. 12 years removed from middle school and life can make you feel that way. I often feel weak or unqualified, but that's Satan talking. The most tragic thing might happen or you might just be in a rut. Always remember, you are stronger than you think, especially with Christ on your side. Nothing is too big for our God. Through Him you are a conqueror. </span></span><br />
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<span style="color: purple;"><b><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Lesson #5: God has a purpose for you, a seed has been planted</span></b></span><br />
<span style="color: purple;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="color: #444444;">Oh, the cloudy vision of middle schoolers. All they see if what's right in front of them. They don't see that they are made for a purpose. They don't understand that what they do now has implications for what they will do in the future. Oh, wait that's my life too. Sometimes, I feel so unsure of where I am in life. I feel complacent or unfulfilled or like what I'm doing is not good enough for God. T</span></span><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="color: #444444;">he Lord is always working even if we can't see it. He is on our side. Seeds are planted daily that we reap the harvest from at the most unexpected moments. I want open my eyes and heart to be open to the purposes God has for me. </span></span></span><br />
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<span style="color: purple;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="color: #444444;">So yes, I am 12 years out of middle school, but the lessons I see daily are not just for tweens. They are for me and I am blessed to learn from them every single day. </span></span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"> </span></span>Christinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07542164015677602211noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-965769469087219059.post-65360311156373525252012-11-29T21:14:00.003-05:002012-11-29T21:14:59.619-05:00Cara Box Exchange<div class="Wifessionals-button" style="margin: 0 auto; width: 200px;">
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<span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">This month I joined up with Kaitlyn over at <b><a href="http://wifessionals.blogspot.com/2012/11/november-cara-box-reveal-link-up.html">Wifessionals</a></b> for her Cara Box Exchange. Basically, she pairs you up with another blogger, has a monthly theme, and you exchange care packages based on that theme. It's a really fun way to get to know another blogger and receive a fun package in the process. This month I was linked up with Kaylee over at <a href="http://kayleehornsby.blogspot.com/">All <b>Things Bright and Beautiful</b></a>. The theme was childhood and it was so much fun reminiscing about the fun memories from being a kid. Kaylee was so sweet and sent me a fun package with all things kids love. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">It was so nice to share memories, meet someone new, and be able to give a fun gift. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">So go check out both Kaitlyn's and Kaylee blogs!</span></span><br />
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<br />Christinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07542164015677602211noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-965769469087219059.post-50074699777089489322012-11-22T07:00:00.000-05:002012-11-22T07:00:11.507-05:00Thankful<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"> We are blessed beyond belief. The Lord has given us so many things to be thankful for that I cannot begin to name them all. I pray that each of you has a wonderful Thanksgiving and that you take a moment to reflect on all that brings you joy and the amazing life the Lord has given each of us. Happy Thanksgiving friends! </span></span>Christinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07542164015677602211noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-965769469087219059.post-68631591113835329992012-11-18T14:23:00.000-05:002012-11-18T17:46:38.157-05:00Color Me Happy<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">On Saturday, I participated in my first 5k, the Color Run!! It was so amazingly fun! If you haven't heard of the Color Run, it is a 5k run that has color stations along the route. At every station volunteers douse you in colored powder. By the end of the race you look like a rainbow! Brandon and I got to run it with another couple from our small group from church and one of their family members. We are so blessed to have amazing friends who made this so much fun. </span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">I got my colorful socks ready, my sweatband, and my clean white shirt just waiting to be colorified. The start line is a huge dance party and the run was also a lot of fun. There were a lot of hills along the route, but hey it was a great workout. At the finish line we headed to the color party, which is essentially a huge dance party. Every 10 minutes or so they do a color throw. Each runner got a packet of colored powder. On the signal everyone throws their color in the air to create a huge colorful cloud that rains down on you. In one word- Fantastic!!! This was the most fun I have had in a long time. Next on our list of runs, the Electric Run in April. So pumped!! </span></span><br />
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<b><span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Before</span></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">During </span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"> It really is the happiest 5k on the planet!!!</span><br />
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Christinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07542164015677602211noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-965769469087219059.post-44877789217112183712012-11-12T09:33:00.000-05:002012-11-12T09:34:05.199-05:00Pumpkin Pie Cupcakes<span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">I found this recipe on <span style="color: purple;"><b><a href="http://pinterest.com/cfbrown814/">Pinterest</a></b></span> and it was so yummy! They are like little mini pumpkin pies. Perfect for chilly fall evenings. One batter, no extra crust or filling and they taste amazing. </span></span><br />
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<b><span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Ingredients:</span></span></b><br />
<span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">2/3 cup all purpose flour<br />
1/4 tsp baking powder<br />
1/4 tsp baking soda<br />
1/4 tsp salt<br />
2 tsp pumpkin pie spice<br />
1 15-oz can pumpkin puree<br />
1/2 cup sugar<br />
1/4 cup brown sugar<br />
2 large eggs<br />
1 tsp vanilla extract<br />
3/4 cup half and half (or evaporated milk)</span></span><br />
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<b><span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">How to Make Them:</span></span></b><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Preheat the oven to 350F. Line a 12-cup muffin tin.<br />
In a medium bowl, sift together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt and pumpkin pie spice</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">In a separate bowl, mix together pumpkin puree, sugar, brown sugar, eggs, vanilla, and half and half until well combined</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Add in dry ingredients</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Mix well until there are no dry streaks in the batter</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"> </span> </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Fill the cups 1/3 of the way</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Bake for 20 minutes</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Cool in pan. When they come out they will look like cupcakes, but they will sink as they cool.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Chill before serving. Top with a dollop of cool whip. Enjoy!</span><br />
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<br />Christinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07542164015677602211noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-965769469087219059.post-34496508522017063342012-11-09T17:12:00.000-05:002012-11-09T17:12:17.911-05:00On Feeling Complacent<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><i><b>Complacent- </b>Contented to a fault; self-satisfied and unconcerned</i></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Satisfied to a fault. That describes my state of mind right now. I'm feeling complacent. In my job, in my spiritual life, in my every day life, complacent, unmoved, unmotivated...satisfied. I'm not satisfied in a good way though. It's like the color grey. Not, bright and moving nor dark and dull, just there, just grey. Not to say I'm grumpy or sad or depressed. No, I'm just not motivated. Do you ever feel that way? Maybe it's just me. I'm going along with the motions of life. I like to feel passionate, driven, excited, enthused. Complacency does not yield those feelings. It leads to stagnation and contentment. I don't want to be stagnant. I want to ebb and flow, meet the challenge head on, continually seek out new adventure, always seek Christ in new ways, but I'm not doing that right now. I'm just floating<i>. </i>Security and comfort are important to sanity, yes, but detrimental to growth. I want to expand my horizons and pour back into my passions. I want to light the fire of excitement and dig deep into what life has to offer. The answer is simple, but the action is hard. I think that's what makes it fun. You've got to take control of your life and get out of the rut of complacency. Maybe I'll try a new hobby or just get motivated to get out from in front of the television. Maybe I'll read a new counseling journal and get excited about my job again. Maybe I'll listen to a new worship album or pour myself into volunteering at church again instead of just showing up. I don't know what the cure is, but the blessing is that there is a cure and it's a fun one. Just get off my booty and take control. It's my one and only life to do it. <i> </i></span></span><i><span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"></span></span><br /></i></div>
Christinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07542164015677602211noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-965769469087219059.post-76685653636447073662012-11-03T10:29:00.001-04:002012-11-03T10:42:25.675-04:00Sweet November<span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">hello November! First of all, where did October go? I guess all the craziness with the hubby's job made our October kind of non-existent, but here we are and it is November. Is it just me or is this year flying right by? Anyways, fall has officially hit NC. I know we were slow to get there, but boy did it hit us quickly, like overnight. There I was enjoying the 70 degree weather to freezing my tooshie off. If you know me, you know I hate being cold. Hate it! Even though I hate the cold, there are some things that I love about fall. </span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">1. Boots, boots, and more boots!!! Did I say boots! Yes, I am kind of obsessed. I have already bought two new pair this season (on sale of course)! Now, I just need some cute clothes to go with them. </span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">2. Chilly evenings with a cup of hot tea in my hand. I love that warm feeling of drinking a simple cup of tea. </span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxAdqAN1aLc-kSiefa23tHGfT9GkAsxgbD0v1owqI05SrNJhAlyNrZvXn_RBF1ER1ovnCz8tvVU71epCagb2GkgUtefpicTsNefG3jbXnDgBadIlPwcC7GQQldT1XZZUTcR7_meJVDSQU/s1600/tea.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxAdqAN1aLc-kSiefa23tHGfT9GkAsxgbD0v1owqI05SrNJhAlyNrZvXn_RBF1ER1ovnCz8tvVU71epCagb2GkgUtefpicTsNefG3jbXnDgBadIlPwcC7GQQldT1XZZUTcR7_meJVDSQU/s1600/tea.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">3. Wolfpack football. Enough said.</span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidwqoL7_Vu3AFdsa_XRZgiMUDG7sqoLjS_leJoxEfxJFbYMPAwEM5SfAwJqWfMRA-jRfcJYpUckYGT7GrgYOdxl_8sIxD7J3OxGN2z-khBLrv8vqBJcelgkxO3IocbHaEyxioRNoSgPPI/s1600/374481_10100889440141739_381212321_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidwqoL7_Vu3AFdsa_XRZgiMUDG7sqoLjS_leJoxEfxJFbYMPAwEM5SfAwJqWfMRA-jRfcJYpUckYGT7GrgYOdxl_8sIxD7J3OxGN2z-khBLrv8vqBJcelgkxO3IocbHaEyxioRNoSgPPI/s1600/374481_10100889440141739_381212321_n.jpg" width="300" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhlot8QV9afmI_BPjRviJ7Llj-QLQ2s9LAGDY7Wsp3YASbvRCSrmqw_wZQ8q07aRwQgWQ4O1zIraVed6k1nP3nLlyTrpgRKZDY7mfEa5k82ImWfKCylnAe-acnpbxDEloZ282eD_uyX04/s1600/1061_10100889442751509_264338584_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhlot8QV9afmI_BPjRviJ7Llj-QLQ2s9LAGDY7Wsp3YASbvRCSrmqw_wZQ8q07aRwQgWQ4O1zIraVed6k1nP3nLlyTrpgRKZDY7mfEa5k82ImWfKCylnAe-acnpbxDEloZ282eD_uyX04/s1600/1061_10100889442751509_264338584_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">4. Fall wreaths. This was my first year making a fall wreath and I love it. </span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">5. The leaves! I love the colors of fall. I love driving down the street under a canopy of orange, yellow, and red. </span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><i>What are your favorite things about fall?</i></span></span></div>
Christinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07542164015677602211noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-965769469087219059.post-40944506815198072662012-10-28T16:04:00.000-04:002012-10-28T19:56:41.873-04:00I'm Back<div style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">
I'm back. I needed to take a little hiatus from blogging. I can't really pinpoint a reason, I just didn't have the creativity nor passion for it at the time. Needless to say, it is good to be back. The past month has been nothing short of crazy. Back in June, Brandon started a new job. We knew that there was the possibility of him traveling on occasion. Well, the traveling hit big time. No it wasn't a day here, a day there. I got a call at work on a Monday at the beginning of the month from him. "I'm going to Florida tomorrow...for a week". "Um, okay..." So off to Florida he went. Now understand, we have never been apart since we have been married and rarely while we were dating, so this was an adjustment. It went fine and he came back home that next week. Okay, great he traveled, did his work thing, now he's back home right? Nope. Four days later they send him to Florida again for the day. He's back that evening. Then he tells me, he going to be in Florida for the next TWO weeks. What?! Yep, he's been in Florida for practically the whole month of October. </div>
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So, what does a wifey do with her hubby in Florida for a month? We go to Disney! Duh!! I flew down for the weekend to visit between weeks. I flew standby to try to save money. Good idea, right? Wrong! I didn't get on two flights Thursday night. Bawling my eyes out in the airport, I sulk back to my car only to drive back the following morning. I made it on the Friday morning flight. Praise Jesus! A serious meltdown may have occurred otherwise. </div>
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Upon arrival Friday, we rented a kayak and set out to find some manatees or "tees" as Brandon calls them. We kayaked for about an hour and a half with no luck. We did see some beautiful springs, some flying fish, and some raccoons, but no tees. Then right as we were turning around I say "wait I think I saw something". Totally skeptical he kayaked over to the spot. We sat for about a minute then a manatee nose rises up out of the water. It was amazing. We were surrounded by a herd of them! Just the two of us in a kayak. One of the best experiences ever. </div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">That Saturday we drove the two hours to Orlando to Disney World! Yes, we are 25 years old, but Disney is awesome! We rode all the classics: Space Mountain, Tea Cups, It's a Small World, etc. It was great to have a spontaneous vacation in the midst of a tough situation. Yes, I did have to buy a 1-way ticket to get back home after not getting on another flight, but hey it was totally worth it. </span><br />
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<br />Christinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07542164015677602211noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-965769469087219059.post-43207405063936292202012-09-20T21:59:00.000-04:002012-09-20T21:59:10.434-04:00I Believe In...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I believe a good vacation can cure anything.</div>
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I believe redheads have more fun.</div>
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I believe in naps.</div>
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I believe that puppy and hubby cuddles are the best kind of cuddles.</div>
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I believe in family time.</div>
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I believe in taking time out for yourself.</div>
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I believe in loyalty. The kind that won't leave you when you need it most.</div>
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I believe in human connection.</div>
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I believe in having fun.</div>
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I believe in forehead kisses and holding hands.</div>
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I believe in laughter. The kind that makes you cry. </div>
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I believe in God's perfect timing.</div>
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I believe in singing like you're on a stage while driving.</div>
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I believe in taking your own pillow when you travel.</div>
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I believe ice cream is the best dessert. Any flavor.</div>
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I believe in NC State sports.</div>
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I believe in forgiving but never forgetting.</div>
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I believe in big comfy shirts and running shorts.</div>
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I believe in always wearing earrings.</div>
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I believe in challenging yourself to step out of your comfort zone.</div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">I believe that Jesus is Lord and His way is the only way.</span>Christinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07542164015677602211noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-965769469087219059.post-5866025293907248682012-09-16T19:31:00.001-04:002012-09-16T19:31:48.554-04:00Dig a Ditch<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Well hello there long lost friends! I know I have been MIA for quite a while...a month to be exact, but to be honest with you work is kicking my butt. I have been so exhausted and literally fall asleep every night before 9:00. I know, old womanlike. Anyways, I have had a relaxing Sunday and figured I should venture back into the blogging world. Something that has really spoken to me this weekend is the concept of "digging ditches". No, not like a construction worker or gravedigger, but in a spiritual sense. </div>
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Pastor Steven Furtick, my pastor, released his new book <i>Greater</i> recently and it has been our series at church these past two weeks. The book is hitting spiritual spots on my heart, especially this week. This week we talked about digging ditches. Elisha was asked to pray to the Lord to bring water to the armies who were dying of thirst in the dessert and God responded "make this valley full of ditches". He meant that if the armies would make preparations in faith that the Lord would show His faithfulness and bring the rain. </div>
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This really struck me. So many times I pray to God to make something happen in my life. I pray for reconciled relationships, I pray for the will to forgive, I pray for people to be saved, I pray for purpose, etc. etc., but rarely do I make the room for God to move. </div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">God is omnipotent, yes, but we are not helpless. He expects us to get up and step out in faith. We cannot expect God to honor our faith if we do not demonstrate it to Him. All we have is all God needs, but we need to use what we have to prepare the way for the Lord to do greater things in our lives. I am so guilty of this. I just expect that God will answer every prayer and I can just sit back and watch. Not the case. I need to get up and start digging some ditches because God has a rainfall coming my way that will cause the ditches to overflow with blessings. So let's get dirty and dig some ditches. </span> Christinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07542164015677602211noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-965769469087219059.post-10748782476237726192012-08-17T21:35:00.002-04:002012-08-17T21:35:57.815-04:00Friday's Letters<b style="color: purple; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Dear Summer</b><span style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">, I am so sad to have to say goodbye to you, but alas the school year is upon us. Hi Ho Hi Ho it's back to work I go. </span><b style="color: purple; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Dear Furbabies</b><span style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">, you are super cute and cuddly. I think you sweeties were the best decisions we have made in our marriage. </span><b style="color: purple; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Dear husband</b><span style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">, I can't believe this week we celebrated our second anniversary. It feels like just yesterday was our wedding day. So much has changed over two years and I love you more and more through it all. </span><b style="color: purple; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Dear Ice Cream</b><span style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">, I really miss you now that I am on this hardcore diet. Maybe we will have to have a rendezvous soon. </span><b style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"> <span style="color: purple;">Dear students and your parents</span></b><span style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">, please be nice to me and my educator friends this year. We would greatly appreciate it in advance. <b style="color: purple;">Dear Brandon (again)</b>, thank you for helping me hang pictures in my office today. You know my head is crooked and your measuring skills are genius, so you were the perfect man for the job. </span><b style="color: purple; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Dear Fall, </b><span style="color: purple; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="color: #444444;">I can now open you with open arms since I bought my new boots. I can't wait to wear them!</span></span><span style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"> </span><b style="color: purple; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Dear blog friends</b><span style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">, I hope you all have a fabulous weekend!! For those of you going back to school or who work in school or who have kids in school hope you have a wonderful school year!</span><br />
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<br />Christinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07542164015677602211noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-965769469087219059.post-12962536365069417592012-08-14T07:00:00.000-04:002012-08-16T16:22:59.260-04:00Two<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Two years ago today I made the best decision of my life and said I Do to the most wonderful man. I am still amazed that I get to be married to Brandon and that God chose him to be my partner in life. God created marriage so that we can have someone to share life's joys, pains, changes, and excitement with and that we would be drawn closer to Him through it. I am so thankful that my marriage is based on Christ's love for us and that I can continue to grow personally and spiritually through it. I am so excited to see what the Lord has in store for us through our marriage. You can see the video highlights of our special day <b><a href="http://vimeo.com/30602307">here</a></b>. Happy anniversary Brandon, I love you so much!</span><br />
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<br />Christinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07542164015677602211noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-965769469087219059.post-4024134509511246732012-08-12T22:32:00.000-04:002012-08-12T22:32:14.012-04:00Pintastic<div style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">
It has come that time of year where I will be heading back to work soon. Last year being my first year on the job, I really didn't have a whole lot of time to decorate my office. This year I am starting early and trying to put my personal touch on it. I want it to feel warm and inviting for the students, so I wanted to use quotes and bright colors. I am a big DIY fan and found a great way to showcase a quote on Pinterest, so I decided to use it. I found the inspiration <b><a href="http://makeanddogirl.com/2012/03/tutorial-diy-wall-art-with-quotes/">here</a>. </b>It was a fun and easy project.</div>
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<b>What you will need:</b></div>
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Canvas- Mine was 16X20</div>
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Staple gun </div>
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Fabric a little larger than your canvas</div>
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Letter stickers</div>
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Acrylic paint in your favorite color</div>
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Paint brush</div>
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A favorite inspirational quote</div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">1. Staple your fabric to the cavas. Make sure it is snug and the corners are flat. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">2. Use the letter stickers to put your quote on your fabric covered canvas. I had some dead space so I used these flower stickers as well. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPcx44rgCx4uHKo00LXKfUc2dq_-3yVg_hSCHNs67Qbbq122lH-iAJC2KIvlEM1UcS7KXAfphSEz67mgzYJn6WPWvqQWoNeqy5S9W89SWci7TdBGbKDrzrmySgTKYtMswUcTdY6BYNb80/s1600/012.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPcx44rgCx4uHKo00LXKfUc2dq_-3yVg_hSCHNs67Qbbq122lH-iAJC2KIvlEM1UcS7KXAfphSEz67mgzYJn6WPWvqQWoNeqy5S9W89SWci7TdBGbKDrzrmySgTKYtMswUcTdY6BYNb80/s320/012.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">3. Paint over the entire cavas, stickers included</span>. Also paint the edges of the cavas.<br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">4. Let your paint dry. Once dry, peel the letter sticker up. The letters will be in the fabric now. I didn't pull up my flower stickers because they were too delicate, so I left them for texture.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">There you have it! Your very own quote wall art. Some of the paint did bleed up under the stickers, but hey, it shouldn't be perfect :)</span> <span style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">This will go in my office next week.</span>Christinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07542164015677602211noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-965769469087219059.post-44507913890119015082012-08-04T15:05:00.000-04:002012-08-04T15:11:08.055-04:00Feed Me<center>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Okay friends, since I have been sick for over a week now my diet has completely been killed. I haven't been able to work out and with Brandon taking care of meals we haven't been eating well at all. That's why we decided to go on a major healthy living spree starting Monday. The problem is I am not a creative cook. I'm not really much of a cook at all, but I like to learn. It's easier for me to eat well and cook when I have a plan of attack. With that being said, we do not have very many healthy recipes. That's where you come in. I would love to learn some new healthy and delicious recipes for all meals: breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Post your healthy recipe(s) on your blog and send them my way by adding your link below. I can't wait to learn some yummy recipes. I will work on posting my own sometime this week. Thanks for feeding me healthy!</span><br />
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document.write('<script type="text/javascript" src=http://www.inlinkz.com/cs.php?id=179855&' + new Date().getTime() + '"><\/script>');</script>Christinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07542164015677602211noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-965769469087219059.post-4423411273261912982012-08-02T16:25:00.001-04:002012-08-02T16:25:41.481-04:00In Sickness and in Health<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh15GfFnM-4cgxKSHJk00O2_aZroOsdlmzecdGFXJ_NwhR6FBjeCUvDrr45SZKViG3lQLPt0s9Ztuhcppbcv9nnukYRLIRrHW1KvcVI_FzHqA65u-ScpJg5lCyV5PCUbWKBh-y2mAXKYBA/s1600/tissues.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh15GfFnM-4cgxKSHJk00O2_aZroOsdlmzecdGFXJ_NwhR6FBjeCUvDrr45SZKViG3lQLPt0s9Ztuhcppbcv9nnukYRLIRrHW1KvcVI_FzHqA65u-ScpJg5lCyV5PCUbWKBh-y2mAXKYBA/s400/tissues.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">This past week has been filled with kleenex, unkempt hair, nasty nose blowing, and little to no energy. I have been fighting a nasty sinus infection combined with an ear infection. I know, nice imagery there, but I will tell you that I have the most wonderful caretaker, the hubs. Seriously, he is the best. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">It is so nice to know that I can look terrible, sound terrible, and be completely unattractive and he will still love me. Even with his own broken ankle he has gone out of his way to take care of me. Whether that means getting up to let the dog out, going out to pick up dinner, or letting me have control of the remote, he wants to make sure that I am taken care of. </span><br />
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is most demonstrated in difficult times. I do believe that. It is
easy to love someone when things are going well, but it is a true sign
of love when you are there when things aren't the best. That goes for
any relationship, platonic or romantic. Think about it. When do you really need to feel loved? When you are at your best or when you are in the low? I will take it in the low. I really am blessed to have a husband that wants me to feel loved always, even with a snot-filled tissue hanging from my nose. </span>Christinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07542164015677602211noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-965769469087219059.post-43288223239925783772012-07-31T12:08:00.000-04:002012-07-31T12:11:24.969-04:00How I Make That Money Honey Link Up<center>
<a href="http://thebargainblonde.blogspot.com/"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e215/LindseyLeeTTU/HIMTMHbutton.jpg" width="293" /> </a></center>
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Today I am linking up with Lindsey over at <b><a href="http://thebargainblonde.blogspot.com/">The Bargain Blonde</a></b> for the how I Make That Money Honey Link up. This link up is all about what you do for the daily grind, your real life job. I love getting to find out about the girl behind the blog and about everyone's actual "real lives". So here you go.</div>
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Growing up in youth group at church I had the opportunity to travel on several summer mission trips to work with kids. We traveled to places like Jacksonville, FL, Charleston, SC, West Palm Beach, and Memphis, TN. I found a passion for working with underprivileged kids and knew that I wanted to help others when I grew up, specifically kids. For me, it just clicked that this was my calling. That paired with my passion for helping and encouraging others pointed me in the direction of some sort of counseling. </div>
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I ended up graduating as valedictorian with a BA in Psychology and minors in Spanish and Sociology. This catapulted me into my career path. In order to be a counselor you have to have a Master's degree. I ended up getting a fellowship to study School Counseling at UNC Charlotte, my hometown where Brandon just happened to get an Engineering job after we graduated. It was meant to be. <br />
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I finished my Master's in School Counseling in May of 2011 and began the job hunt. I ended up getting a job as a middle school counselor. I just finished my first year counseling and I absolutely love it. I get to work with students on academic, personal, social, and emotional concerns. I speak to kids about issues ranging from friendship to suicide and self-mutilation. My job is never boring and I feel like I am making a difference on a daily basis. </div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">I never thought middle school was the age group for me, but I love them. They are in their own special world with unique issues. Plus, a perk to working in the school is that I get summers off, Praise Jesus! After working with middle school issues for 10 months, I definitely needed a break. I am looking forward to continuing to grow my counseling skills and make a difference in kids' lives. </span></div>
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<br /></div>Christinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07542164015677602211noreply@blogger.com0