lovely little things

Relaxation has now become my friend!  The past couple weeks have been super busy for me, and transitioning out of the typical work week schedule into tutoring/errands/everything else has been an adjustment.  I thought I'd have it down by now with this being my third "teaching" summer, but it has shown me how much I truly can't rely on my own power and might.  I wanted to start a new feature on the blog titled "lovely little things" to spotlight what has been making me smile lately or what I'm loving currently.  These items have truly helped me to relax a bit more, stop and smell the flowers, and soak in the little lovely things in life. 

Enjoy!

Nothing says "let's start this day off right" like coffee in bed.  And the best part.  The Mr. woke up before me (which should be marked on our calendar because he is definitely not a morning person) and made us coffee.  

Pedicures have always been a treat for me, so I rarely ever get them.  Two weeks ago my mom treated me to one, and I took Miss Kylee on Saturday...I'm on a roll.  There is just something about sitting in that chair, bouncing around while it tries to massage you, and getting all the tightness rubbed out of your footsies.  

One word: Kylee!  We started her trip off right with a shopping trip to Francesca's where we both styled ourselves, gawked at some up and coming fashion trends, and purchased beautiful blouses which we quickly came home to put on for our dinner out.  I love that store!

Pinterest has been a happening spot for me lately because I've actually had time to try out some recipes I pinned ages ago.  This week one of the items I made were vegan sweet potato burgers.  I attempted black bean burgers last year and they were definitely tasty but very crumbly.  What I loved about these were the fact that they held together and had a nice crunchy outside.  The Mr. ate two.  He still proclaimed that these won't replace his usual all beef manly burgers, but I was just happy that he was willing to try something new.

Source: target.com via Jamie on Pinterest

I purchased this chapstick last week at Target and I have been in heaven every since!  It tastes amazing, doesn't rub off quickly, and leaves my lips feeling super soft.  I also love that there are lots of organic ingredients in it, and that it smells just so good!

Source: sephora.com via Jamie on Pinterest

So I am one of those people that has lots of lip glosses and lip sticks in the bottom of her purse and never wears any of them.  I go through little stints with them, and then decide that time wins over beauty and leave them behind.  Kylee let me use this lipstick on Saturday when we were going out to dinner and it is truly one of a kind! It is smooth, creamy, and it goes on with the slightest touch.  AND it stays on like a dream.  

today's the day!

I can barely sit still right now because the one and only KYLEE is on her way!!!  My dearest friend will be staying with me for a whole entire week, and the thought of seeing her everyday just fills my heart with joy.  It's been on my calendar for months and today is the day! 

So this post may have no substance but all I can think about right now is seeing my truest friend.  You can bet yourself our week will be filled with morning coffee talks, sangria by the pool, wine and cheese, beach days, breakfast at Claire's, indulging in desserts, smiling until our cheeks hurt, and so much more. 

Hope you all have a fun filled weekend and I can't wait to give you a recap on my dearest friend's trip. 

friday letters

Dear summer, thank you for your gorgeous weather, but where were you on the 4th???  I mean, the beach is still pretty on a gloomy day but did the sun really have to hide the entire time?  Also, I promise that one of these days I will finally get to enjoy you, relax, and soak up all of your beautiful rays of sunshine.
Dear Andrea, you are extremely beautiful inside and out-don't ever let anyone make you feel otherwise.  Always remember that God created you, He knows every hair on your head, and you are "fearfully and wonderfully made".  Also, you're a mean card player.  A little competitive???
Dear barre studio, thank you for my first ever barre class that kicked my booty.  I definitely woke up the next day feeling sore and loved every second of it.
Dear anxiety, we are not friends.  I've worked so hard to deal with you, work through it, find peace, and you have reared your ugly head once again.  I know that my prayers are being heard and hold fast to Matthew 6:25-27.
Dear Dana at Girl on the Go, three words: Best. Facial. Ever.
Dear husband of mine, you are so gosh darn handsome.  I love you more than words can say, and I especially love that you are always there for me, getting me through disappointments and happy times.  I also love how you think I'm funny, that you laugh at me but make me think you're really laughing with me, and that you can always put a smile on my face.
Dear Kylee, one more day!!!!  I can barely stand the fact that you, my bf, will be here tomorrow.  Currently I'm doing a happy dance in the living room, and the thought of spending so much time with you makes my heart overflow with joy.  Pool, wine and cheese, coffee, hikes, Cucina Urbana, the list goes on and on...
Dear Heavenly Father, I love the fact that blogging has brought me closer to you in the past couple of weeks.  Each devotion in the morning speaks directly to my soul, and you leave me speechless every time.  Thank you for your grace.  Thank you for being bigger than me, for having the power to overcome everything that hurts, thank you for loving me for all my sins and showing me how to be Christ-like.