Stitch Fix December 2020 + Coupon Code

This may have been my favorite Stitch Fix yet!  Stitch Fix is a fun personal styling company that sends you a box of five items according to your style preferences.  You try on the items in the convenience of your home, buy what you like and send back the rest in a prepaid mailing envelope.  You can see my first and second fixes here and here.  So let's jump right in!

Halls Brushed Knit Two Pocket Cardigan by Market & Spruce

This is a fun olive-colored cardigan that is oh-so-soft!  I'm not sure what this style of cardigan is called, but it is my favorite!  It has pockets too! 

Corinna Brushed Dolman Knit Top by Market & Spruce 

This shirt is also so soft!!  I wasn't completely sure about the colors before I tried it on, but I love it and it is so comfortable!  I appreciate that the neckline is higher and I don't have to wear an additional layer underneath for modesty. 

Marian Skinny Jean by Just USA 

I don't know how Stitch Fix does it, but every pair of pants I have received from them have been spot on!  I have short legs for my height, but their pants have always fit me well!  The color is perfect and they are also super soft.  

Larie Crew Neck Blouse by Papermoon

This shirt was really not my style, unfortunately.  The pattern feels a little too busy and the front was too short for my long torso.

Arnett Faux Wrap Knit Dress by Kaileigh 

This dress is adorable!  It is a fake wrap dress that ties on the side.  It was below freezing when I received these items so definitely too cold for an outdoor try-on pic!   I decided against keeping it since we're going into the winter season and it's already unseasonably cold here.  

I am super happy with the items I kept from this fix and have already worn them several times!  If you are considering trying Stitch Fix for the first time, I cannot speak highly enough of the experience I have had.  They accommodate a wide variety of sizes and styles and are open to your feedback and style interests.  If you're looking for a great Christmas gift for yourself or someone else look no further!  Use this code to receive a $25 credit towards your first fix!

https://www.stitchfix.com/invite/dcw7cv3zv3?sod=w&som=c

I hope you are staying warm and enjoying the Christmas season!

Emily

"You Redeem"

This year has robbed us of many things: traditions, vacations, time with family and friends, work, school, and maybe even some of the people we love the most. It is easy to dwell on what we have lost, instead of what we have or will gain from this trying season. A song below by Aaron Shust entitled “You Redeem” speaks to the reminder that whatever we face God can redeem and use for good.

Resting in the peace that God will redeem all that was lost makes everything a whole lot sweeter and easier to bear. It may not be this week, this month, or even this century, but God knows and will redeem in His perfect and holy timing. He is not blind to our suffering and feels our pain when we are walking through tough times. We often ask why it feels like God is silent and distant when we are suffering, but I read a beautiful analogy recently that noted the teacher is always silent during the test. Is the teacher still there during the test? Absolutely. The teacher is watching us maybe even more closely than usual during the exam and ready to respond to our needs. Teachers cannot give us the answers during the test, but they are right there with us during them. So reach out to God and know that He is still there and has not forgotten or abandoned you - He is right there in the midst of everything with you. 

 

“You redeem, You redeem

You restore what’s been stolen from me

You reclaim, You release

You rebuild with the words that You breathe

You redeem”

-“You Redeem” by Aaron Shust

“For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.” - 2 Corinthians 4:17-18 NIV

"For he has rescued us from the dominion of darkness and brought us into the kingdom of the Son he loves, in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins.” - Colossians 1:13-14 NIV

“For you know that it was not with perishable things such as silver or gold that you were redeemed from the empty way of life handed down to you from your ancestors, but with the precious blood of Christ, a lamb without blemish or defect.” - 1 Peter 1:18-19 NIV

“In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God’s grace.” - Ephesians 1:7 NIV

Cross-Stitch Nativity Scene Ornament

If you know me, you know I love to cross-stitch!  I happened upon a couple of cross-stitch ornament kits that had never been made while cleaning up.  This sweet one worked up very quickly and I love how it turned out!

"Home is Where the Heart is" Wall Hanging

I love these needlecraft kits by Dimensions.  I have made several of them at this point and they are wonderful!  This one is interesting as it looks like it is a cross-stitch, but it is actually embroidery!  It is a woven fabric with the design printed on it to stitch on top of.  Very clever and cute!  

The Heart of Thanksgiving

“Thankful” is probably not the first word that comes to mind when we think of 2020. Life as we know it has been turned upside down for the greater part of this year. In a year where it doesn’t seem like there’s much to be thankful for, I’m reminded that Thanksgiving doesn’t depend on our circumstances. The COVID-19 pandemic has robbed us of many things, but what it cannot eliminate is an attitude of thankfulness.


We may be closer to the true spirit of Thanksgiving this year than we have for many, many years prior. The first Thanksgiving celebrated in America was rooted in battles with famine, illness, and death. Despite these overwhelming obstacles and heartaches, the pilgrims chose to celebrate the blessings they did have. It’s not our circumstances that determine our gratefulness, but rather our attitude. It’s easy to express gratitude sitting around the table over turkey when the times are good. But will we still persevere and count our blessings when the going gets tough?


The apostle Paul instructs in his first letter to the Thessalonians to be thankful in all circumstances. This is the same Paul who was repeatedly shipwrecked, imprisoned, beaten, stoned, and endured countless hardships and persecution. Again, it’s not the circumstances surrounding us but the temperature of our hearts. So as we approach this Thanksgiving, we can still choose to look for the blessings.


Thanksgiving dinners may be smaller or nonexistent this year. Our favorite Christmas traditions may be canceled. We may mourn the absence of friends and family this holiday season. The painful realities of this broken world sting deeply - there’s no denying it. In spite of all this year’s hardships, we can choose a heart of thanksgiving over troubles, blessings over bitterness, and love over loss.

“Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” - 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 NIV


“Our greatest freedom is the freedom to choose our attitude.” - Viktor Frankl

Books I Want to Re-Read

Photo via Pinterest

Since I so enjoyed re-reading several books from my summer book list, I decided to compile another list of books I want to re-read.   As C.S. Lewis wisely noted: "I can't imagine a man really enjoying a book and reading it only once" :).

Christy by Catherine Marshall

 I have talked about this book so. many. times. at this point, I'm sure. What can I say?  It's one of my favorites!  :)  In this book, a young Christy Huddleston leaves behind her extravagant lifestyle to teach at a mission school in the backwoods of the Appalachian mountains.  It is just. so. good.  The TV series was alright, but the book is better. 

The Love Comes Softly Series by Janette Oke

There is something so comforting about these books.  Reading them is like watching a Hallmark movie.  The families have their fair share of troubles, but the stories always end happily.  It is so fun watching the families grow and mature over the "years" as the books progress. 

A Lantern in Her Hand by Bess Streeter Aldrich

This book is also very similar to the Love Comes Softly series.  It's another grown-up Little House on the Prairie style book.  Do you see a theme here yet?  :)  There is a sequel to this book, A White Bird Flying, that I still need to read too!

Number the Stars by Lois Lowry

This is a classic book set in World War II times.  There are quotes in it that are applicable to any situation I'm currently in.  It's a book that sticks with you long after you've set it down.   

The Lightkeeper's Daughter by Colleen Coble

This book has a lot going on - It's very busy with a lot of storylines.  Best of all, it has a lighthouse setting that caters to my lighthouse obsession. 

Gladys Aylward: The Little Woman by Gladys Aylward

Gladys Aylward is one of my FAVORITE missionaries.  She was a missionary in China where over one-hundred children called her "mom."  It is so beautiful to see how God was working through her and her life. I've read several other books about her life and ministry, but this one has been my favorite so far.  

Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen

It has been a few years since I last read this book, so I think I'm due!  I've heard there is a really good BBC Pride and Prejudice remake that I'm hoping to watch soon as well.

In His Steps by Charles Sheldon

In this book, a church congregation is challenged to ask themselves "what would Jesus do?" before every thought and action they make.  What they never would have guessed is how this simple question would radically impact their lives and the lives of those around them. 

What books do you turn to again and again?

My Favorite Authors

I am often asked who some of my favorite authors are, so I compiled a list of those I turn to again and again.  I find works by these following authors to be so rich and full of wisdom - I could probably never tire of their works. 

Photo via Pinterest

Elizabeth Prentiss - "Stepping Heavenward" is one book I have read over and over again through the years. She also has beautiful poetry that points you towards Christ.

Elisabeth Elliot.  So many amazing works by this great lady of faith.  Her example is very inspirational!

Corrie Ten Boom.  Wow.  Just wow.  "The Hiding Place" is one of those few books that will rock you to your core.  I am continually amazed and blessed by this woman's astounding faith in the Lord.  "In My Father's House" is another one of my favorites by her.  

Andrew Murray.  If I had to choose only one word to describe this man, I would have to choose "humility."  Actually, he has a book of that same title!  His books are so packed full of wisdom and truths that they take a while to read, and sometimes I reread several times before grasping everything packed into his chapters.

Janette Oke.  As far as fiction goes, Janette Oke is one of my favorites.  Her books have Christian themes throughout and are very refreshing.  The Love Comes Softly series is my personal favorite, but you can't really go wrong with anything by her.

Ben Carson.  Great inspirational author!  I read many of his books in high school and always found them to be very motivating.  I enjoy the medical themes interwoven with life truths. 

What authors do you find yourself returning to again and again?

What College Has Taught Me

Three years of college have taught me a lot of book knowledge, but possibly the most important lessons it has taught me are those regarding life.  I hope these lessons will stick with me long graduation fades into a distant memory. 

The world is full of hurting, broken people.

So be that listening ear.  Be the one that walks the long way to your car because someone is pouring out their life story to you.  Be the shoulder to cry on when life is tough for your fellow classmate.  Be the one that shares class notes with the person who missed a class when they were without childcare.  Smile kindly at the person who took your favorite seat.  Everyone is fighting their own often unseen battles, so spread God's love and grace when and where you can. 

Not everyone believes the way I do, and that's okay too.

They are still precious in God's sight and I should treat them as such.  I don't condone hanging out with bad influences, but you may be the light God intentionally sets in someone's path.  We can agree to disagree and still have respect for each other and our differences. 

You don't have to believe everything someone tells you.  

I was taught things in class that are contrary to the beliefs I hold.  But you know what?  It is so freeing to know I don't have to believe it just because they say it is true! What is true for someone else doesn't automatically have to be true for me too.  Others are entitled to their beliefs and I'm entitled to mine as well.  If that means remembering something only long enough to regurgitate it on a test, so be it.  Recognize it for what it is and then move on.  

Grades are important, but they do not define you.  Many grades are not representative of what you know.  You can be taught how to be a safe nurse, but you can't be taught how to be a caring nurse.  School can teach you how to start an intravenous line, but it can't teach you how to listen compassionately to a patient's fears surrounding the placement of one.   

Enjoy the journey.  Like everything else, "this too shall pass," so make the most of it through the joyful and the difficult seasons.  

Chesapeake Shores Review

                                      

Image found online

I have so enjoyed watching the Chesapeake Shores TV series on the Hallmark Movies Now app recently.  I know it has been around for a while, but I'm late to the party and never watched it while it was airing in real-time.  This fun series is set in fictional Chesapeake Shores, Maryland, and it has an amazing small-town feel to it. I love that the characters can drive their golf cart into town and grab a bite to eat.  All the beach and water scenes make me want to visit a northeastern beach. The series is *relatively* family-friendly.  It is a Christian show, but the Christian references are sometimes few and far between. All things considered, it is a pretty benign and light-hearted show that I believe you would enjoy too.

The first season had a lot of family drama in it.  Child custody disputes and old grudges added a good bit of tension to the first season.  It wasn't overpowering, but for me, it made it less enjoyable.  When I watch TV, I generally want it to be relaxing and happy.  I love Jess's personality but wish she was able to forgive the grudges she held against her mother (edit: they mellow out over time!).

The second season had a lot less tension and drama in it.  I thought something was off with Abbie but after some research, I realized she was pregnant in real life during that season.  She wasn't showing huge at the time, but it was funny seeing her always carrying something bulky or camera angles hiding her growing belly.  I enjoyed this season a lot more than the first one since it was more low-key and relaxed.  Trace and Lee's song will get stuck in your head - you've been warned!  Jess's romance is the cutest thing ever. 

Season three was a lot of fun.  Trace Riley, Simon Atwater, and Kevin's girlfriend really grew on me this season.  Admittedly, I didn't care a whole lot for any of the three early on.  Trace spent a lot of time on the road, which strained his and Abbie's relationship.  Meanwhile, Jess's relationship continues to bloom.  Her boyfriend's character, integrity, and commitment are admirable.  He has turned into one of my favorite characters on the show!  

Season four was lovely but sad to watch since I knew it was coming to an end.  It's six episodes were over way too fast.  This season was full of life-altering moments. I so enjoyed watching the characters navigate life and happily ever afters.    

Season five is supposedly coming out next year, so we'll see!  You'll find me impatiently waiting until then :).

Fall is in the Air!

Fall is upon us!  The days are getting shorter, the nights colder, and the air crisper.  This is my favorite time of the year.  There is a certain feeling in the air when fall approaches that I can't quite describe.  The fireplaces, the blankets, the pumpkins, the crunch of fallen leaves underfoot - I love it all!  Like Anne Shirley in L.M. Montgomery's iconic book, I am truly so glad we live in a world with Octobers.

Photo via Pinterest

As I pulled out fall decorations this year, I smiled when I unearthed this pumpkin and remembered its history.  Last fall at this time, a sweet group of girls and I got together for a night of painting and fellowship.  We had a blast singing to Disney tunes while painting wooden pumpkins.  Yes, we're crazy but we had a lot of fun!  The more creative ones of us (myself not included!) derived inspiration from Pinterest for our pumpkin decorating.  This colorful pumpkin is what I ended up with.  I cannot paint or draw to save my life, but I had lots of fun in the process!  Though fall gatherings look different or absent this year, I am so thankful to have memories such as these to reflect on. 

Corrie ten Boom's Words for Today

Beautiful sunsets recently!

We have certainly seen our world fall apart over the last months.  Every source of stability seems to have been pulled out from underneath us.  I have always loved quotes by Corrie ten Boom, but recently they are speaking to me even more than ever.  I encourage you to google Corrie ten Boom quotes and see what wisdom can be gleaned from her.  This quote by her has such relevance lately:  "If you look at the world, you'll be distressed.  If you look within, you'll be depressed.  If you look at God you'll be at rest."  Reading the news headlines produces all kinds of feelings and emotions the past months: fear, frustration, disappointment, questions...the list trails on and on.  "When will things go back to normal?"  "Will we live this way forever?"  "When will a stranger be able to see my smile without a mask?"  "When will I be able to hug the elderly at church?"  Every influence is telling us to worry, but Corrie reminds us that "Worrying is carrying tomorrow's load with today's strength - carrying two days at once.  It is moving into tomorrow ahead of time.  Worrying doesn't empty tomorrow of its sorrow, it empties today of its strength."   Worry and fear are pervasive these days, but fear is the opposite of faith.  We are reminded in second Timothy 1:7 that "God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind."  Even when the world goes crazy, our God stays the same and is still there for us to run to.  He listens to our worries and cares, reminds us that He is the one in control, and He is the One reigning on the throne.  Praise the Lord for this truth!

My Sister Started a Blog!

My beautiful, smart, amazing sister recently started her own blog!  She blogs about Christian lifestyle, music, piano, book and movie reviews, and all things lovely according to Philippians 4:8.  Go check it out!  Her web address is www.gracefullyelisabeth.blogspot.com or click here.

A Bookmark for My Mom

I had the joy of making this sweet bookmark for my mom recently.  One of my mom's friends cleaned out her crafting supplies and gave me the pattern and supplies for this bookmark.  The scalloped edging is darling and the colors are so calming.  This sweet bookmark is now ready to dutifully save the place in her books!

"Time-Out"

In the Medical-Surgical nursing class I’m taking this semester, we are each assigned a day to observe in the operating room.  It was an interesting experience and I got to see an intense surgical procedure.  One thing in particular that I saw stood out to me: before the first tool was touched or the first incision made, the nurse called what they identified as a “Time-Out.” This involved ensuring they were operating on the right patient, performing the right procedure at the right site, and identified allergies and other important data. It was a moment to pause and receive affirmation they were doing the right thing before proceeding on.  Of course, you know I love finding parallels.  So here it is: in our fast-paced, goal-oriented lifestyles today, we seldom take the time to pause and ensure we are doing the right thing and making the right decisions.  I for sure am guilty of this!  This OR experience made me ponder: Do I call my own “time-out” and seek God’s wisdom before I plunge ahead with something important or risky?  Or do I blindly trust my own knowledge, experience, emotions, and understanding of the situation?  Unfortunately, I often pick the latter.  How many mistakes would we save ourselves from if we paused for a moment before acting?  Probably quite a few.  With this “time-out” in mind, I am reminded of Corrie ten Boom’s wise words: “Is prayer your steering wheel or your spare tire?”  

"Footprints" Poem

Photo via Pinterest

"One night I dreamed a dream.

As I was walking along the beach with my Lord.

Across the dark sky flashed scenes from my life.

For each scene, I noticed two sets of footprints in the sand,

One belonging to me and one to my Lord.

After the last scene of my life flashed before me,

I looked back at the footprints in the sand.

I noticed that at many times along the path of my life,

especially at the very lowest and saddest times,

there was only one set of footprints.

This really troubled me, so I asked the Lord about it.

"Lord, you said once I decided to follow you,

You'd walk with me all the way.

But I noticed that during the saddest and most troublesome times of my life,

there was only one set of footprints.

I don't understand why, when I needed You the most, You would leave me."

He whispered, "My precious child, I love you and will never leave you

Never, ever, during your trials and testings.

When you saw only one set of footprints,

It was then that I carried you."

Though published many, many years ago, this beautiful poem still speaks to people today.  I have loved this poem as long as I can remember.  It's so easy to feel we are alone when faced with difficulty, but we must always remember He is still there with us, and it is Him who carries us through.  I hope this poem gives you as much hope as it has given me over the years. 

Books I have Read this Summer

In addition to the books mentioned here that I wanted to read, my list grew and these are other books I have enjoyed this summer:

Saved at Sea by Mrs. O.F. Walton

This is a Lamplighter book.  Though written for young children, Lamplighter books are so precious and encouraging and I can't resist the occasional one for enjoyment.  My love for lighthouses and "The Solid Rock" hymn met their match with this book.

Stepping Heavenward by Elizabeth Prentiss

This is one of my all-time favorite books!  I'm sure I have already written about it here many times.  I still get something new out of it every time I read it!

Love Takes Wing by Janette Oke

This is the 7th installment in the Love Comes Softly series.  This one had a different feel to it than the other books in the series, but it was good in its own unique way.

Love Finds a Home by Janette Oke

This is the 8th and final Love Comes Softly book and may have been my favorite yet!  So many loose ends were tied up and it all came together beautifully in this book.  Now I'm wanting to reread the entire series again just for the fun of it :).

Evidence not Seen by Darlene Deibler Rose

This book was recommended by a friend and I cannot stop thinking of it.  It took me a while to get through it.  Like books such as The Hiding Place, it is not all flowery and leaves you in a more somber mind than it found you.  It was humbling, inspiring, and made me thankful for what I have.

Grandmother Elsie by Martha Finley

This is the 8th Elsie Dinsmore book and one I started a *very* long time ago.  Like all the others, this one was full of sweet, simple truths and an enjoyable quick read. 

A Distant Melody by Sarah Sundin

When I read about this book on a blog, I immediately wanted to read it.  I love historical fiction, and this one was delightful!  The remaining two books in this series are on my reading list when school lets out again.

What books have you enjoyed this summer?

Emily

Candlemaking

With some extra time on my hands before school starts back up, I dug out some candle making supplies that have been sitting in my closet for some time.  One of my favorite gifts I ever received was a candlemaking kit for my birthday many years ago.  There was only a little bit of wax left in that well-loved kit, so I decided to finish it off and make something fun with it.

I repurposed some glass yogurt jars that have the cutest shape.  I used a scent named "grassy meadows" and it lives up to its name.  It smells like grass, but also has a hint of something sweet and fruity to it.  Almost like apple, or honeysuckle, or something to that degree.  It smells very nice!

After the candles had a while to set up and harden, I pulled out some white vinyl and cut out the words "joy," "faith," and "hope" on the Cricut.  Some twine around the necks of the jars finished them off.   Now they are ready to bless someone else!

Neither do people light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house.  Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.  Matthew 5:15-16 KJV 

"Everything is Possible with God" Cross Stitch

On a family vacation to the mountains, we visited a quaint needle stitch shop off the beaten path.  I have never seen so many needle crafts in one place!  Cross stitch, needlepoint, embroidery, you name it and it was there!  This sweet cross stitch kit made its way home with us and I am so glad it did!  The church reminds me a little of the church/school on the "When Calls the Heart" series.  We hung it in our kitchen with several other cross-stitches we have finished over the years :).

Thank God for Little Things

Poetry by Helen Steiner Rice is just beautiful.  Her poems so sensitively capture the heart and soul of a believer.  My sister has several books of her poetry and I love reading and rereading my favorites.  Thinking of the "little things" mentioned in the poem below, there are so many little blessings from God that we take for granted or completely fail to recognize.  This poem is so special and I knew I had to share it.
  

                                      

Thank You, God, for little things

that often come our way-

The things we take for granted

but don't mention when we pray-

The unexpected courtesy,

the thoughtful, kindly deed-

A hand reached out to help us

in the time of sudden need-

Oh, make us more aware, dear God,

of little daily graces

That come to us with "sweet surprise"

from never-dreamed-of places.

- From Heart Gifts by Helen Steiner Rice

Listening to the Father

As a nursing student, I have quickly learned that nurses must possess the art of listening.  Listening is a critical part of nursing assessments.  Nurses gather both objective and subjective data about patients through listening.  In our present age, we are all quick to speak but slow to listen.  We impulsively share our opinions but often fail to hear the hearts of others.  The act of listening is always being refined in the life of a Christian.  In my own spiritual walk, I admit to being quick to raise my requests to God but much slower to be still and truly listen to what God is whispering to my heart.  We know medical errors occur when healthcare professionals fail to listen effectively, but how many opportunities for spiritual growth do we pass up when we are the ones doing all the talking?  How many chances to minister to others do we forfeit because we are deaf to Christ’s voice when He commands us to be His hands and feet?  

A stethoscope is one of the ultimate tools for healthcare professionals.  In nursing school, we have learned to assess a patient’s heart sounds, lung sounds, abdominal sounds, and blood pressure with this valuable tool.  The use of a stethoscope requires intentional and dedicated listening - talking or excess background noise can drown out the sounds we are trying to hear.  How similar this is to a Christian’s spiritual journey.  Talking and excess background noise, whatever form it may take in our busy lives, drown out the most important Voice.  Like the nurse’s stethoscope, Christians have been given the ultimate tool for listening: the Bible.  God speaks to our hearts through His Word when we open ourselves to listening.  Praise the Lord for this gracious gift to us!  Lord, please help us to learn to listen to You.

“My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry.”  James 1:19

June 2020 Stitch Fix + Coupon Code

Hello again!  I enjoyed my first experience with Stitch Fix so much that I requested another box for June!  I was once again thrilled to receive my Fix this past week.  With summer temperatures heating up here, I requested summer items and reiterated that I don't care for spaghetti straps or low necklines.  Once again, they delivered and did a great job.  I received a dress, three tops, and a pair of shorts this time. 

French Grey - Evalynn Brushed Knit Dress

This dress screams perfection!  I just love everything about it - the colors, the print, the cut, the feel of the fabric, literally everything!  It is very versatile, can be dressed up or down, and seems to look good with everything.  Did I mention yet how much I love this dress?

  

Papermoon - Reece Mixed Material Top

This top is pretty cute and I love the color.  Interestingly, the back of the top is a solid knit fabric while the front is a woven floral.  Very comfortable and flowy for hot summer days.

Papermoon - Egan One Pocket Knit Top

Level 99 Tinley - Distressed Cuffed Shorts 

Unfortunately, neither of these items "made the cut" for me so I included stock photos instead. They are cute in their own way, but not styles I typically go for.  I'll be sending these back so they can go to someone who loves them and can give them a good home.  In the future, I'll be more upfront and specific about my likes/dislikes.  However, they did a great job with what little information they had to go off of.

Papermoon - Jaimin Tie Front Top

I really like this top!  The fabric is soft and feels like good quality. I love navy shirts and this one is no exception.  The tie in the front gives it extra flair and personality.  Yet another keeper!

All in all, this was another great fix and I discovered several new favorite items.  If you are considering trying Stitch Fix for the first time, I highly encourage you to give it a shot!  Use the link below when signing up to receive $25 worth of credit to apply towards any items you keep!

https://www.stitchfix.com/invite/dcw7cv3zv3?sod=w&som=c

I hope your day is blessed!

Emily

Summer 2020 Book List

I always look forward to when school lets out and I can begin books I have been desiring to read.  I read so much for school that when I do have free time during the semester I don't feel like using it to read for fun.  Tragic, I know!  This summer will be a bit different as I am taking a research class online and working.  However, I know I will take the time to enjoy some of these books this summer:

1. The Story of My Life by Helen Keller.  Helen Keller was someone who always fascinated me when I was younger.  I read every book the library had about her at the time, and then reread them again and again.  Something about her story and obstacles really caught my attention.  For a while, I was even trying to teach myself to read Braille because of her.

2. Just Do Something by Kevin DeYoung.  This tiny little book intrigues me and I now want to read it! 

3. These Happy Golden Years by Laura Ingalls Wilder.  I was obsessed with Laura Ingalls and her prairie life when I was younger.  I watched all the TV episodes and read all the books up until this one for some reason.  Though it seems silly, I want to read this one and the last one ("The Last Four Years") for closure all these years later.  This should be a quick read, and everyone needs one of those every once in a while!

4. The Confessions of Saint Augustine.  Interestingly, the back cover of the book notes that this is the first autobiography ever written.  That's pretty neat!

5. The Screwtape Letters by C.S. Lewis.  I read this book for a Classic Christian Literature class during high school and really enjoyed it.  It is written from such an interesting perspective.  A Bible Study group I'm in mentioned it and it made me want to read it all over again!

6. Love's Unfolding Dream by Janette Oke.  This is the next book in the Love Comes Softly Series for me. These remind me of a grown-ups version of Little House on the Prairie.  They are light reads and very enjoyable.

7. Meeting God at Every Turn by Catherine Marshall.  Catherine Marshall is the author of Christy - one of my favorite books of all time.  The inside cover of the book describes it as a "spiritual autobiography."  I'm excited to dig into this book and see what wisdom can be gleaned from Catherine Marshall's life. 

Time to grab a cool drink and get busy reading!  What does your summer reading list look like this year?

Puzzle Pieces for His Glory

Jigsaw puzzles are incredibly addicting to me.  I love a good challenge, and once I sit down to work on a puzzle I have a hard time peeling myself away from it.  Since I like to feel as if I'm being productive, even when putting together a puzzle, I often listen to an audiobook or something school-related while working with my hands.  However, I often find working on puzzles to be a very reflective time.   A time to slow down and process whatever is in my mind, which got me thinking how very much alike our lives, God's plan, and jigsaw puzzles are.  

Looking at a box of puzzle pieces, it's hard to believe that something beautiful can be made out of them, but sure enough, there is always a rewarding image upon completion.  I prefer the puzzles with at least 1000 pieces - a lot of pieces!  Taking the lid off of the box, there are so. many. pieces. just lying there waiting to be put in their rightful spot.  The sheer number is overwhelming to think about.  Thinking of our lives, there are so many pieces to be put in place.  So many thoughts, dreams, relationships, and a million other components.  Yet we have a Father who lovingly takes every puzzle piece of our lives, expertly putting them together to make something beautiful in the end.  Some pieces are oddly shaped, some may even be broken, yet they are still just as much a part of the finished product as the others.  I often struggle with deciphering where a puzzle piece goes.  I twist it, turn it, hold it up to the light, give up, and throw the piece back in the box when I can't find where it goes.  But God never has this problem with our lives.  He sovereignly knows where each piece will fit together perfectly in a way that will be glorifying to Him.  

Several years ago there was a doctor's office we went to that always had a jigsaw puzzle out for people to work on while they were waiting.  The catch was they never displayed the lid of the puzzle box.  This always frustrated me because I like to see the bigger picture so I can know what I'm working towards.  If each of our lives were a jigsaw puzzle being put together, how we would love to see the “lid” to see what it would look like when finished.  The problem is, if we knew right now what our puzzle would look like, there would be no reason for trust.  If I could see the masterpiece, I would have no need to trust that God knows what He is doing with all the puzzle pieces of my life in His hands.  Praise the Lord that He is putting together a masterpiece with His skillful hands.  Though we cannot see the end result, we can rest in the confidence that He is working everything for our good and His pleasure.  Like King Solomon in Ecclesiastes 3:11, we can earnestly believe that “He has made everything beautiful in its time.  Also, he has put eternity into man’s heart, yet so that he cannot find out what God has done from the beginning to the end.”  

"A Family is a Circle of Love" Cross Stitch

This precious little cross-stitch made its way into our hearts the moment we saw the kit at the craft store.  My mom particularly liked this design, so I gave it to her once it was stitched.  It is now the perfect addition to our kitchen! 

First Stitch Fix Experience May 2020 + Coupon Code

Hello, friends!  I have been wanting to try Stitch Fix for a while.  I first heard of it several years ago from some ladies at my workplace and kept it in the back of my mind all these years.  With all of my time at home recently, I finally decided to give it a go.  Upon signing up, I took a brief quiz regarding my fit and style preferences.  It asked good questions, such as how pants usually fit me, how shirts usually fit me, and the like.  As someone of average height with short legs and a long torso, this was very appreciated.  You can also specify during this time which colors/items you would not want to receive.  I was grateful for the opportunity to share that I did not like orange, brown, or animal prints.  A couple weeks later, I was ecstatic to have my first box delivered - I may or may not have stalked the mailman all day.  My box consisted of five items: three shirts, one pair of pants, and a necklace.

Pink Clover Daisee Button Back Detail Top 

STS Blue Ellie Skinny High Rise Jean

Bancroft Romilly Disc Pendant Necklace

This top was super cute!  It has adorable buttons up the back and is oh so soft.  I love stripes and this top represents my style well. The jeans are some of the comfiest jeans I have ever worn!  They came at the perfect time too, as my favorite pair of jeans had just succumbed to a hole that I couldn't fix.  They were just a tad too tight in the waist so I opted to "exchange" them for the next size up.  

Market & Spruce Hans Crochet Front Top 

STS Blue Ellie Skinny High Rish Jean

Bancroft Romilly Disc Pendant Necklace  

This top was also really cute, but I didn't love it.  I can't pinpoint exactly why, except that I could not keep a white shirt white if my life depended on it. It just didn't "speak" to me and I ended up returning it.  Returns are super easy, too!  Each box contains a prepaid shipping label and pouch to ship any unwanted items back.  

Alice Blue Ambriz Pleat Front Detail Blouse

This is my favorite item from this fix!!!  I appreciate that it can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion.  There is the opportunity after you have bought a Stitch Fix item to buy the same item again or buy the item in a different color. I love this top so much that I am tempted to buy it in another color. 

I opted to place my fixes "on demand" instead of on a fixed schedule.  This works for me and my lifestyle.  However, I can say I will definitely schedule another Fix again in the near future.  The quality of the clothing seems to be outstanding.  It was a fabulous experience and I highly recommend it.  If you are interested in trying out Stitch Fix (you totally should!), use this link below to get $25 credit.

https://www.stitchfix.com/invite/dcw7cv3zv3?sod=w&som=c

Until next time, my friends!