There is just something about Christmas. Even in the depths of grief, overwhelming stress, or when we are exhausted and desperate for rest, Christmas is still beautiful. Between the nostalgia, lights, and bustle, Christmastime still warms the heart at all stages of life. Eric and I even bonded, in part, over our love of Christmas. The beautiful evergreen trees in our yard is one of the reasons we chose our current home. We had a Christmas tree set up in the foyer beside the sanctuary during our June four-seasons-themed wedding. From our earliest days together, we knew Christmas was going to be … [Read more...]
8 Ways to Celebrate Valentine’s Day
Recently, on the radio, I heard a deejay say that 44% of Americans spend an average of $208 on Valentine’s Day. Maybe I am just incredibly cheap, but I was shocked. Coming from the child who was thrilled with her bag of Skittles and a card from her dad, it baffled me to hear that so many people spend over $200 on their Valentine’s Day celebrations. However, once one factors in roses, a gift, quality chocolate, and a nice dinner, I suppose it is easier to reach the $200 mark than I originally thought. And, for the couples who want to go all out for Cupid’s holiday, I say go for it (if you … [Read more...]
Are You Dating Your Christmas Morning Person?
In just a few hours, Eric and I will make our way across town to attend our friends’ ugly Christmas sweater party. After much searching (and finding nothing), I will be decorating a long sleeve t-shirt from Goodwill for my Christmas “sweater,” and I am still trying to talk Eric into decorating his beard with ornaments (I think I am fighting a losing battle on that one). All this Christmas fanfare, family gatherings, trees decorated everywhere, and excited children have made me think about all the Christmases Eric and I have spent together. Counting our engagement, this is our eighteenth … [Read more...]
Five Gifts Your Partner Really Wants for Christmas This Year
Just a few nights ago, I watched a video outlining which each enneagram (personality) type does not want for Christmas based on answers from the content creator’s audience. Heartbreakingly enough for me, Bath and Body Works (a strong staple from me!) was listed across the board as a no-go. Every enneagram type specifically mentioned that they did not want Bath and Body Works for Christmas (what?!?!). Well, since soothing body washes, festive lotions, and fragrant candles are some of my favorite Christmas go-tos, I felt more saddened by this news than I care to admit. That vlogger may as … [Read more...]
Are We Losing Our Freedom?
Happy Fourth of July to my fellow Americans. Something about this holiday makes my heart feel warm and my mind feel reflective. From the time I was born until now I have known liberty. As a child, I was repeatedly asked, “What are you going to be when you grow up?” Though at times it felt like an overwhelming question (as I often had no idea), the mere fact that I even had a choice was an example of our glorious freedom. Mom explained to me that some children did not have freedom to choose their path in life; but, my mind could not fully comprehend it. Later in life, I was able to choose … [Read more...]
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