Mug: Ashley Brooke Designs || Sweater: Soca || Similar styles here, here & here || Socks: Nordstrom || Jeans: Madewell || Similar Jeans here & here

Do you want to know a secret? I have a slight obsession with coffee mugs. Especially those that have fun little sayings on them like this one from Ashley Brooke Designs. I have been falling in love with this company for a while, so I was thrilled when they sent me this precious mug. Of course, this is the kind of shop where I could literally say, “Oh, I’ll take one of each, please.” So, be sure to check out all their adorable mug styles. Don’t tell the other mugs, but this one is my favorite.

There are a lot of traditions around the holidays that I truly enjoy. But, this year, my mom decided to change things up a bit. So, when she called and suggested that we spend Christmas Eve serving hot meals at the Nashville Rescue Mission, I was a little taken back. Most of my family has served before, and my sister, Hillary, is basically in charge of the food pantry at her church in D.C.; so, for them, this was no big deal. However, I was honestly a little nervous. I had never served at a homeless shelter before. I couldn’t understand why I was having such a hard time getting excited about something that I knew deep down would bring so much joy.

While scooping mashed potatoes onto each plate that rainy Christmas Eve, I stood next to a women named Kerry. Kerry is the type of person you never forget. She is the type of person that embodies the verse “be kind and do good” each day. Kerry works two jobs, but in her “free time,” she serves at the shelter twice a week. And did I mention she is also a mom to the most adorable teenager? While her work-ethic is impressive, it is her positivity that draws you in and makes you want to do more, too.

Now, I am not suggesting that in order to “be kind and do good” you have to serve at the homeless shelter everyday. (Although it would be great if you did!) Rather, you can live out this verse by committing to serving God’s people on a daily basis. Whether that is severing dinner to hundreds or just telling a friend you’re thinking about them, it’s the act of kindness that makes it all worth while.

Don’t be afraid to answer the call to do something that may seem out of your ordinary. Just go for it. When you do, I hope you get the opportunity to meet and learn from someone as God-loving as Kerry. Those moments can change your life for the better. And if you need a little reminder to live like Ecclesiastes 3:12, I have the perfect mug for your morning coffee that will do just that!

"I know that there is nothing better for people than to be happy and to do good while they live." - Ecclesiastes 3:12

Photography by Madi Flournoy Henderson

Sweater: Soca || Similar Sweaters here & here || Shoes: Sam Edelman || Similar shoes here || Jeans: Madewell || Similar jeans here

First, let me start by saying, “Happy New Year!” I can’t believe 2017 has officially arrived. I feel like just yesterday it was August, and I was greeting a whole new class of students. Now, we are halfway through the year, and I can’t even believe how quickly time is passing by. But, I guess it’s like the saying, “Time flies when you’re having fun!” (or, honestly, just really busy).

While January is certain to bring cold weather in Nashville, I will be extra warm in this sweater from Soca. I am all about that sweater life these days. I have teamed up with Soca for a fun collaboration and can’t wait to bring you more amazing looks from them in the future. But, for now, just know that this sweater is all you need for those cold days ahead.

Of course, the start of a new year brings the idea of a fresh start. As we ring in the new year, I am taking this time to pray about how a TAD more faith will evolve in this next year. But, it’s not only my blog. I am praying about what I should change or add to my everyday lifestyle to make this year the best one yet. I love how a new year and fresh outlook can bring these kind of thoughts and ambition out of us.

I also love that being a Christian means that I can decide to make a change in my relationship with Christ any time I want. I don’t need a ball to drop or the year to change to decide it’s time to work a little harder. My relationship with Him is ever changing, ever evolving no matter what time of year. While my side of the relationship may change, I find great comfort in knowing that His love always remains the same.

In 2017, I challenge you to not only think about what you want to do differently (or better) in your life, but also think about how you can strengthen your faith. Set some goals there, too, and truly work for them. One of my resolutions is to read the Bible everyday. Yes. Everyday. I spend a lot of time reading what other people have to say about the Bible, but I do not spend enough time diving into the Word on my own. One thing I know for sure, the more I learn about Him through His words, the more I will better understand His plan for my life.

What are your goals for the new year? Faith wise and personal? I would love to hear, so be sure to comment below. I know that God has big plans for us all in delivering His message this year. I can’t wait to see how He uses each and every one of you to make a difference in this world. Thankful for you all. Prayers for a strong 2017.