Fresh Courage

Photography by Madi Flournoy Henderson || Book: Val Marie Paper

While growing up, I used to think that every night before bed I had to write down my prayers. I honestly thought that if I didn’t write down my prayers, I wouldn’t go to heaven. For real. So, for YEARS, I would read a chapter from the Bible and write down every single prayer. I would literally start by saying, “Dear God, thank you for this day… and so on, and so on.” Nowadays, it is so entertaining to go back and read what I prayed about in high school. For that alone, I am very thankful for my prayer journals.

As I grew in my faith, I quickly realized that I didn’t have to write down my prayers for God to hear them. Now, I spend a lot more time talking to God rather than writing Him letters in my prayer journal. With that said, lately I have started to feel like I need to write to Him again. Not every prayer. Not every night. But write to Him, so I can be able to really communicate with Him… Without being distracted by one of the million things that distracts me on a daily basis.

Recently, I discovered Val Marie Paper and fell in love with her “oh so amazing” prayer journals. So, you can imagine my excitement when I opened a package from her with this gorgeous journal in it.
 
This isn’t just any prayer journal. This particular journal helps you look back on your life and see God’s presence through each season. By doing this, it reminds you of His faithfulness. Val writes, “It’s so easy to forget God’s faithfulness and this, I believe is one of our greatest reasons for fear.” How quickly do we let fear hold us back from taking the next step? How quickly do we forget that He is always there? But He has been there and He will continue to be there. No matter what.
 
Val Marie Paper has two similar, but different journals called Fresh Start and Fresh Hope. While these two journals will make perfect gifts for my loved ones this holiday season, Fresh Courage is what I need in my current season of life. I am looking forward to growing closer to Him; and, at the same time, recognizing the unbelievable love He has always had for me.

A Gift From The Heart

Photography by Madi Flournoy Henderson || Dress: Fab'rik

With the holiday season upon us, so comes the stress of finding that perfect holiday party outfit (or, several outfits depending on how many parties you plan to attend this year!). I love a good holiday party full of decorations, friends and, of course, food. I also love this dress from Fab’rik. The length, the lace, the RED. It’s the perfect holiday dress for all occasions. 
 
One event I look forward to with my friends every holiday season is our little game of “Dirty Santa.” And every year it starts out the same. As the first few gifts are opened, most people sit back and act content with their selections. At some point, however, a brave soul speaks up to say, “I want that one!” Just as the first gift is stolen away, the fun truly begins. The laughter and excitement of this night provide some of my favorite memories of the season. I love watching the looks on my friends faces as the gifts on the table are opened and/or stolen away.

During this year’s Dirty Santa, we are changing things up a bit. One of our friends suggested that we use this precious time together to give back to our community. Specifically, she suggested that we bring a little something for a child in need, such as a toy or coat, in addition to our Dirty Santa gift. Coming as no surprise, the group quickly fell in love with this idea; and, now, the night will take on even more significance for me.
 
What my friend doesn’t know is that her little suggestion will not only serve as a gift to the handful of kids that might otherwise get nothing this Christmas, but it has already served as a gift to me. You see, after a very trying day, I needed the reminder that things could always be worse. I needed the reminder that there are people who need much more than me. I am so thankful for her giving heart that completely shifted my focus today.
 
Of course, I am going to encourage you to give back to those less fortunate this holiday season. But, I am also going to encourage you to give back to the people you love. Not through your wallets, but through your hearts. A heart that loves like He loves you is one of the greatest gifts of all. I pray it is a gift you give and also receive all season long.

But I am like an olive tree growing in God's house, and I can count on His love forever and ever. - Psalm 52:8

Hashtag Blessed

Black Friday. The biggest shopping day of the year has arrived. Only to be followed by Small Business Saturday and Cyber Monday. And let me confess, these days are a blogger's dream. The sales, the excitement, the comfy sweaters. But these days can only mean one thing - the holidays are here. 

I love the holidays. I love the hustle and bustle of parties, get-togethers, dinners and drinks. But every year I try so very hard to not get wrapped up in the stress that comes with the holiday mess. Don't we all. 

Before you embark on your marathon weekend of shopping I would like to remind you of something. No matter what sale you find, or what deal you snag, you are already hashtag blessed. Not because of the items in your shopping cart, but because of all the blessing that came with the birth of our Savior. The fact that you are not only loved, but forgiven, sought after and fought for by someone who wants to be with you so badly that He gave His life to save yours. 

So as the holidays get crazy please don't forget what the craze is really all about. The love that came when the Son was born. 

"Enter His gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise; give thanks to Him and praise His name." - Psalm 100:4

And because I care so much about your stress, I've listed some sales that are simply the best. 

- JCrew 40% off your whole purchase with code HOLIDAY 

- Madewell 25% off with code THATSALE 

- Sole Society 30% off all footwear (praise), and select bags 

- Nordstrom 20% off select sale items 

- Kelly Wynne 20% off

- Nisolo 40% off select shoes and bags 

- ASOS 30% off with code THANKFUL30

- Ann Taylor 50% off with code celebrate