January Jams / Playlist

Here is a playlist of songs I've been listening to this month. Let me know what you think, I'd love to hear what you're listening to as well. You can listen to this on spotify here.

Relentless // 2013 in Words

Sometimes it takes me a long time to figure out what I want to say. So just know, this post has been a long time coming.

On this day a year ago, I was sitting across the table from Trinity at a tea room in St. Louis.
Today, I am again sitting at a table across from Trinity in Starbucks. My year has come full circle and I'd like to share with you a little part of my life.

We'll start from the beginning and just jump right in, shall we? Honest and true, remembering back a year ago, the Lord broke me down in January. This was new to me, being broken. And I'm sorry to start off on such a sad note, but it is a genuine note. I believe in the first two months of this past year, I've never felt more reliant on God.  It was a hard lesson in selfishness and loving people and not taking people for granted. It's almost hard to look back and say that was a year ago, because it seems so far away from right now and so much has changed. But always for the better. Always. In addition to learning more about myself and the Lord, in January I started a job as a part of the University Activities Council that I've grown to love and I've learned more than I can imagine. It has stretched me to become a better leader, stand up for myself, have my own opinions and get things done. It has broadened my love and appreciation for art, music and culture. I've gotten to work with artists like John Mark McMillan and All Sons & Daughters, just to name a few. This opportunity has been an absolute blessing to me and continues to be.

The next big milestone I recall was in April, when I 'made something cool everyday' and that might have been one of the best decisions I've made all year. It was a month long project in art and graphic design and the experience challenged me artistically and creatively. The positive feedback I got from friends and family was overwhelming and extremely encouraging every day of that month and even in the months after. Some of my best work came out of that project, and I am hoping to do something similar again this year.

In May, my best friend and I made a funny finals video and got over 80 likes. She wore a clown suit. People were reeling for days. (Trin, we need to do that again.) And when I think about the first part of this year, I'm reminded of really happy times. A dear friend of mine wrote a phenomenal play and got to have it performed at our school, and I'll never forget the trip to iHop we made after the last show, debriefing on the meaning of it all and how wonderful everything was. Zach McCoy's wisdom and encouragement will never cease to amaze me. He understands people and has taught me so much; for that I am grateful. I'm also reminded of so many more adventures with such great people I can't even begin to explain. All of the concerts (Nashville to see Local Natives front row? Yes.), late night McDonald's runs, sentimental conversations, all-nighters and never ending laughs are bits and pieces of who I am today. It's you, my friends, who fill my life with joy and there are no words for the amount of thanks in my heart. I won Mozarkian queen unexpectedly at the end of spring semester, surrounded by friends again and my heart was full.

May evolved into June and June to July. I saw many friends get married. I saw some not get married, and breathe a small sigh of relief when they didn't, for they had much to learn. Some friends stayed and some friends went and in turn, the summer came and went. I got to work with kids of all kinds and show them Christ's love daily, which is one of my favorite things to do. Especially since kids are way better than adults. Kids say what they want to say and don't have filters and are really real with you, whether you want to hear it or not. And that's why I love them so much. I went to Disneyworld and the beach for my 21st birthday in July and when they say it's the happiest place on earth, they aren't joking. They gave me and my friend birthday pins to wear around and literally everyone tells you happy birthday. Even if they were required to, it was an extremely happy day. All I know is, that day was the most joyful day I've experienced in a while.

I remember feeling so weird about coming back to school in August. I was extremely stoked for new adventures, and the Lord certainly threw me for a new season of my life. Even now August seems so long ago. So many new friends and experiences. I got an apartment with some of my favorite people and that's been a huge blessing. You can see in the post before this (here) about what I was doing and learning in September, I encourage you to read that. I think the best way to describe this past semester is to say it was a roller coaster. Cliche, I know, and I'm sorry, but that's all I've got. A roller coaster in the best way possible though. I was taught to pause and enjoy moments as they happened. And the Lord was with my every step of the way, even though most times I told myself I couldn't feel it. The Sunday when I felt like I couldn't see any silver lining, and the Lord spoke words of encouragement through someone who I would least expect him to. That night that I spent reading old blog posts, listening to the rain at 2am and thanking God for his provision over my life. The Friday where Trinity and I sat and cried in a coffee shop with because we both had no idea what in the world was going on in our lives. The afternoon I spent at Barnes & Noble, listening to a dad and 5 year old daughter have a conversation about how much they loved each other. And all of the other things, which I shall not mention here, that have brought me at one time or another, grief and joy and sadness and contentment--

He was there.
And He gave me some wonderful people in my life who I've gotten the privilege of growing closer to and doing life with. Beka Todd, my heart, my other half, and now a dear friend of mine who I can call a kindred spirit. Jessica Palen, who is the epitome of wonderful, encouraging and has been there for me since the beginning. Tessa Hull, who is the sweetest soul and will forever be a friend of mine. The "Freshmen", you know who you are, who bring joy to my life day in and day out. My IFC Committee, for without them I could do nothing. The Becker family, who I one day hope to model my own family after. Numerous others; if you were a part of my year at all, know I am extremely thankful for you. And lastly but certainly not least, Davis Finley, who encourages me, has seen me at my worst and best, and likes me for who I am.

People say that their past year was "the best year ever." Well this time, I truly mean it. I'm immensely thankful for this year. Especially the sad times, for without them, the happy times would have no value. As I mentioned in one of my recent instagram posts, in this part of life, I am slowly learning. Learning patience, and understanding, and selflessness, and Christ-likeness. I'm thankful for a relentless God who's love remains and always will. But in regards to this past year, I don't really want to use the word 'learned,' I feel it's a bit cliche. Everybody has their lists of what they've learned the past year. That's wonderful, but I want to hear about what you experienced. What broke you? What mended you together? What's still mending you together? What did you encounter? I think I'd like to use the word "encountered." The ultimate thing I encountered this year is that the Lord is profoundly relentless. Most of the things I'd say that I "learned" about life, and love and belonging, I already knew. I just encountered them in a new way.

A constant reminder to me this year was Psalm 73:26. "My heart and flesh may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever." I had this set as a reminder on my phone everyday. And let us not forget Lamentations 3:24, "the Lord is my portion, therefore I will hope in Him."

Friends, this year was hard. This year was easy. This year was full of change. This year was beautiful. Thank you for reading. I appreciate you, reader, and thank you for doing life with me.

Adventures as of Late

The photos above were taken by my friend Trinity on one of our Saturday adventures, that of which I will be writing about soon. She recently wrote a post on all of the fun things we've been doing and you should check out her blog when you get the chance.

Friends--I know, I know. It's been a long time since I last wrote. Seasonal blog posts, I'm telling you. Apparently I'm all about that life. As I mentioned in one of my older posts, there are so many snippets of memories and stories in my head that I cherish, and in times like this, I wish I had written them down. I'm the kind of person who strives to enjoy moments as they are happening and truly appreciate them in the present, and keep those memories to share when they should be shared. My life has been a roller coaster lately, to use the most cliche metaphor. But here are some bits + pieces of my life that I thought I'd share with you.

My poor little car has been broken for the past two weeks and that's been a burden and a blessing
concurrently. I drive a green mini cooper, and I swear that thing is literally the vehicle version of me. Thankfully, my red schwinn Ruby is faithful through and through every morning at 8am. But honestly, not having a vehicle makes you realize the things you take for granted and the things you're missing out on. We had our first 70 degree day here a couple days ago and if I would have driven my car to and from class that day, I most likely would have just talked about how nice it was outside. But I actually get to feel it every morning and truly appreciate my favorite days of the year.

Lately, I've been abounding with inspiration from my surroundings. The other afternoon I was sitting at my desk, tucked away in the secluded, seldom-visited corner of campus where I work. Everyday I get to come in and fulfill design requests that I essentially have free reign over, listen to great music, and be with pleasant people all while working at my own pace. And as I was sitting there on that Wednesday, I was overcome with immense joy. A knowing, contented, fulfilling joy that I can't honestly explain in words. This feeling confirmed that I was, and am, indeed in the right place and doing what I was created to do for the glory of the Lord. I've been getting so much positive feedback from others about my work, I'm not sure what to do with it all. I just smile politely and say a simple thank you, that person probably never knowing how much a small compliment means to an overly sentimental person like me. I truly believe that you should do what makes you happy. That statement is said all of the time and may be overused, but it's extremely true. And maybe you haven't found what that is for you yet, or maybe you have. But you'll know you have when even the smallest task you do brings you joy and you feel like you're making a difference, even if it's in the tiniest way. Maybe it's that child you are spending quality time with, or that business plan you've crafted for the betterment of an organization, or that speech you've written to inform or inspire. God uses people in numerous way that we can't even fathom.

It's not all perfect though; to be honest, this past week has been somewhat difficult for me. Yet, I have found hope in each day. I've been reading the "Jesus Calling" devotional and every single reading has been directly applicable to my daily circumstances. My friends continue to amaze me as they speak truth into my life without fail. God's grace is boundless--my only hope is to emulate that in my daily life and through the encounters I have with people. It's as simple as that.

I have so many more stories to share, and I hope to write about them sooner than later. Thanks for reading, I appreciate that you took the time out of your day to hear about what God is doing in my life and maybe you can be inspired to do whatever it is that brings you joy.

"The Lord make his face to shine upon you and be gracious to you; the Lord lift up his countenance upon you and give you peace." Numbers 6:25-26.
(From the September 15th reading of Jesus Calling.)

Room Tour

This week I thought I'd share with you all some bits and pieces of some things that make up the decor in my room. Most of the things in my room either come from antique stores or were belongings of my grandmother, which I truly cherish and am so lucky to have such special family heirlooms in my possession now. I think it's so wonderful how decorations back then have come back in style and can be used in many ways today. I hope you enjoy these photos and are inspired by different ways to decorate your own space!

 

Isn't that old piano sheet sweet? I hope you all have a blessed week and are inspired by something you love!

-Ashley

Sweet Saturdays

This past Saturday was so wonderful, I had to tell you all about it. I got up early to hop the local farmer's markets in search for this week's goodies, and I think my favorite part was seeing all kinds of friends I knew shopping as well. It makes me happy to see all these people supporting local businesses. Later that day I went to The System to get my hair cut and colored by my friend Amy. She did a wonderful job and I ended up getting an ombre that starts at a darker brown and fades to carmel. Man, do I love it. The rest of the day was truly a sweet saturday- I met up with my dear friend Tessa who has become one of my closest friends as of recent. You can check out her instagram here! She is so wonderful to be around, she is insanely encouraging, and we always have something to talk about. We had a great dinner at a local Italian place named Bambinos and ordered some wonderful items off of their summer menu. They do not disappoint! And then we headed over to the Pickwick area an explored a bit. We stopped at a sweet Homegrown Foods store that reminded me of my morning.

We then stopped at a local sweet shop, Elle's Patisserie. Tessa is great friends with the owners and we chatted with the workers for a while. But most importantly, we enjoyed their Lavender Iced Coffee, which is to die for! Elle's is truly a delightful little spot and I'd encourage anyone who'd like a sweet treat and a friendly face to stop by there.

We then ventured over to the park with our blankets, watercolors, and iced coffee in hand for some painting, which was so much fun! Phelps Grove park is a quaint little spot with families running around everywhere. I'd like to go there more often.

The last photo is the beginning of my creation. I hope you all found your Saturday to be sweet!

-Ashley

Favorite Things // Neon Edition

Here are a few of my recent favorite things, but with a touch on neon! The bright color trend is becoming really popular in the summer months and I can't complain. As much as I love muted or pastel colors, I love my neon.

1) This Home Tweet Home key holder is precious from Modcloth.
2) I absolutely love Salt Water Sandals and I've been dying to get a pair.
3) Ruche has this wonderful Heaven on Earth eyelet dress. If you haven't checked out Ruche, you need to!
4) This. Wall hanging. Is. Amazing. Available through New Friends.
5) Urban has the best home decor, don't they? Wood Box. (on sale too!)
6) This bag is perfect if you want to add that summery touch to your outfit. From Anthropologie.
7) These fun sunnies from Modcloth.
8) I've wanted one of these darn Pantone iPhone Cases forever! They are so neat!
9) These recipe cards are seriously my favorite and are made by rifle paper co. Perfect for your kitchen.

Growing // A Reflection on the Past Year

Sometimes when I try to write things, I'm not even sure where to begin. There are so many snippets of memories and stories in my head that I cherish, and in times like this, I wish I had written them down. Maybe there's a reason for that though. Maybe I'll think of those memories in a different time when I need them more than I need them now. I think I am the kind of person who strives to enjoy moments as they are happening and truly appreciate them in the present. In light of this past semester (and year, even) I believe I did just that, and often. I believe I was woven with heartstrings for appreciation of wonderful moments, more so than most people. Maybe that's just they way I am, or the way I was made. I truly value each day that I'm alive, and each moment I get to spend with the people I love. It's a heavy happiness that weighs on my heart in the best way possible.

School can be tedious. Work can be boring. But people are not. People are not boring. They're made up of intricate stories, feelings and thoughts that can be shared, hidden, displayed, or expressed to other people. That fact that I get to do life with these people--these awesome, influential, inspiring people that I call my friends--makes me extremely grateful. No matter the level of friendship, each person I have encountered this past year has made me a better person, or has given me a new perspective on life.

And from that, I have grown in so many ways. I look back at old pictures from last spring semester and think, "Remember when we did that? That was so long ago!" when in reality, it was just this time last year. But so many things can change in a year. And they have! I'm not sure how to recap it in any other way, so here, it begins.

The Lord worked wonders in my life this past year, as he always does. Did I think this time last year that I would have a job as a part of the University Activities Council, booking bands, putting on film discussions and student showcases? Not necesarily. I remember one of my dear friends who had this job when I was a freshman, and I thought I could never do what he does. Well here I am, in the job, having the time of my life and influencing campus as best as I can along the way. I've learned more than I could ever imagine this semester, and connected with so many people through this amazing opportunity.

And the weddings. My goodness, the weddings. Who knew I'd be attending 4 weddings this summer (and be bridesmaid in one of those) of my closest friends? It's so crazy how fast things move in college. In life too, but really, in college. I couldn't be happier for one of my best friends, who I will have the privilege of supporting on her big day, as she gets married this June. I wouldn't have it any other way, though. I love seeing people in love, and weddings are giant parties of love. And those are my favorite kind of parties.

I've learned so many different things and had wonderful experiences--how many times can you say one of your friends wrote a play, and then got to come back and have it put on for everyone to see? A beautifully written play, mind you. And how many times do you get to see Local Natives, front row, in Nashville, singing along every word with your best friends? Only once, and it goes by the name of Spring Break. Positively the best show I've ever been to, words can't describe that weekend and how much fun it was. And I can't even begin to say how many times we spent at iHop, McDonalds, or just driving around town listening to good music. I have those McDonalds games memorized and I'm not even ashamed. Well…only a little bit. Anyways, towards the end of the year, the all nighters are really the greatest thing ever. So many stories of adventure, stargazing, conversations with friends, long drives, and sunrises go down in my history book as the most memorable moments I won't ever forget.

Lastly, and maybe most importantly, I've learned a thing or two about forgiveness, relationships, friendships, and people in general. I'm extremely thankful for good people in my life who are still so great to me despite decisions I have made that affect them. I wouldn't be the person I am today without their genuine friendship extended to me. The ups and downs of this semester have brought me closer to the Lord in numerous ways, I couldn't begin to list them if I tried. In light of all of the good times, I am extremely thankful for the hard times. Because without them, the good times would have absolutely no meaning. And those good times are something that I live for.

I'm still very unsure on what the Lord has planned for my life, and I question that daily. Who am I going to date? What job will I have? Where will I live? But the one thing I will take away for every experience that has happened this past year, is that God is in control. He knows what's best for me and His plan is ultimately the perfect plan for my life. All of the things that have happened and that will happen, work together for my good. And I fully trust Him with my everything.

As always, thanks for reading, and be blessed.