Do the Shuffle

It's been awhile but the next challenge is the "iPod shuffle." I'm about to share with you the first 10 songs that come to my iPod shuffle. I will even give a little bit of an explanation or story behind them (especially if their embarrassing)!

1. Your Side of the Bed- Little Big Town
          --After seeing them in concert last summer I fell in love with this song!

2. Cruise- Florida Georgia Line
          --A friend told me about this song long before it became popular, I have a hard time listening to it now because I think it was overplayed just a little bit :)

3. Indian Outlaw- Tim Mcgraw
          --Apparently I like country. This song always gets me moving.

4. Until You- David Barnes
          --Sappy, little, love song. Love it on those lovey days.

5. You Belong With Me- Taylor Swift
          --Can't say I love this song that much anymore, but I definitely was on the Taylor bandwagon for        awhile.

6. Breathe- Taylor Swift
          --I'll be honest this is probably my favorite T-Swift song. Love the lyrics!

7. Somebody's Heartbreak- Hunter Hays
          --Love him! Can't help but sing to this as loud as I can in my car!

8. Blood- The Middle East
          --From one of my all-time favorite movies, Crazy, Stupid, Love!

9.Strangely Dim- Francesca Battiselli
          --Just a fun upbeat Christian song

10. I Need You- Faith Hill and Tim McGraw
          --Love this couple and this song. One day I'll try and sing it to my husband ;)

There you have it. My first 10 songs on the iPod. I'm a sucker for country! I crave sappy, love songs. And I'm always looking for something upbeat!

~Holly

Top 5 Pet Peeves

Top 5 pet peeves is hard because only one pops into my mind at first ! I'm sure I can think of more, but my very top pet peeve is:

1. Breaking plans.

Let me explain. I would rather have someone tell me that they are not available at all, or don't want to do anything then have them break plans. I am a pretty schedule person and look forward to things. When plans are broken I have a hard time accepting that. I understand if it's an emergency and breaking plans is a must, but if its an up in the air thing, I'd rather not plan it all. Basically, don't tell me your going to do something if your intentions are not to do it.

Woah! I know that sounds harsh. I believe I practice a lot of grace with this pet peeve! I'm not that mean ;)

2. Heavy Breathing: I only mean heavy breathing in quiet areas like a movie or church. If I'm trying to focus on something, it gets pretty distracting.

3. Tangled Earbuds: I really hate that. You could lay them on the table untangled, walk to the kitchen for water, come back and some how they managed to get into the hardest boy scout knot ever!

4. Slow Walkers: Okay, so I'm not the most patient person (I'm working on it). I walk pretty fast cause usually I'm just trying to get from point A to B. When someone is walking slow I just really need to get around them!

5. Being Sticky: I really don't like to be sticky/dirty on my hands. It just gets really distracting and irritating!

There they are, the top 5 things! Please don't use them against me. :)

~Holly

10 Years

Where would I like to be in 10 years?

Hmmm.... that's tough. Situations and perspectives are constantly changing. So, I guess the question right now is "at this very moment where do I see myself in 10 years?" (Even then that's challenging, cause I honestly don't know.) Since the last post was about relationships, I'll start with that. I would like to say be married and maybe having, or close to having, my first kid. At this rate though who knows what will happen:) Seriously though, I hope to be married to the man God designed for me, the man of dreams (cliche I know!).

I hope in 10 years that I am thrilled about what I am doing in life. I want to be involved in a church community of friends that I love living life with. Taking trips, attending kids soccer games, having BBQ's in the summer, ya know all that jazz? I hope to have other families that I can share life's crazy adventures with. I plan on camping lots and traveling to places I have never been!

Marketing is what I have a passion for, sports marketing. Even more specific, event planning. So, if I could obtain some type of job with sports marketing and event planning that really would be a dream come true. I absolutely LOVE the Broncos. We don't miss a Sunday! Ideally, that is where I would want to be. Working for those beloved Broncos.

In ten years I hope to be in better shape than I am now. I hope I continue my passion for fitness and eating right. I pray that I stay motivated and am able to implement that into my families lives. 

Most importantly, in ten years I hope I am seeking Jesus in every aspect of my life, more and more each day. I hope that my relationship and love for him is overflowing. I know that sounds so cheesy and "Christiany" to say, but I really do pray that. I realize that I may not even make it to 10 years without Him.
So why not take the next 10 years with him, growing closer and closer, and becoming who he designed me to be. 

In all, I hope to be a married. Loving life and my job. Fitness guru. Adventure taker. As well as, enjoying being in His presence daily. 

~Holly

The Challenge

As you can see I am not the best at keeping up with my blog. Life gets busy and sometimes blogging just slips my mind. I enjoy blogging, or writing, because it helps me unwind. It helps me dig deep, think logically, and express myself in a manner that I sometimes struggle with. So, I decided to take a challenge. For the next few weeks I will be writing about different topics to not only help my well-being but give you a chance to get to know me a little better. My promise is to be honest, brutally honest, so that you have a better understanding of who I am.

The first pressing topic is.....current relationship (or lack there of)! This is always an awkward topic for me. I mean when your not in a relationship and you can't rant and rave about your significant other than there isn't much to talk about haha. Well, I have been through my fair share of love (sort of) and heartbreaks. I'll break it down for you. I don't think I've ever been in love. I would consider it being in "infatuation." I say that because I think love is always reciprocated. There is a mutual love for each other, a selflessness. The boy, and I mean boy, I was dating at the time didn't reciprocate that same love. We semi-dated for a few months and both realized that it wasn't what we needed or were looking for. I was heartbroken, but I've realized it was due to the fact that I was more fond of the idea of him, rather then he himself. It took me awhile to realize that. Fortunately, we're still friends (we have been since high school). 

A previous friendship that has really shaped my perspective on relationships was with one of my best friends from college. Since we met we were great friends. He was my "go to." Throughout college my roommates were all pretty much in serious relationships (the ones that are married/getting married now). So, he and I did pretty much everything together. He always had some intentions of dating but after a gentle turn down we remained friends. You know those typical boy/girl friendships, being "best friends" but not sure if we would be good together type of thing? Welp, that was us. About a month after I graduated we decided, or I guess I decided, to try it out (sounds like I'm trying a new food or something). Things were great and I really valued the foundation of friendship we had before any sort of relationship started. However, things ended pretty sourly. We had our differences and his perspective really changed. I later realized how much of a blessing that really was, and how God was in complete control of the whole thing. 

Currently, there is no man in my life and I am okay with it. Lately, I've realized the importance of my friendships, the foundation and basis for successful relationships. In both previous instances it has really benefited me and "him" to know each other before deciding on what to do. Although, neither of them turned out the way I would have planned I am still thankful for their outcomes. 

Most importantly, I have realized you can't love without God. God is love. Try and grasp that, GOD IS LOVE. He is the secret to love, because he IS love. There is no love without him. Mark 12:28-29 states that clearly, saying,

29 “The most important one,” answered Jesus, “is this: ‘Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one.[e] 30 Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.’[f] 31 The second is this: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’[g] There is no commandment greater than these.”

It is the Great Commandment. It is so important that our foundation is founded on the Lord's love. I am by no means an expert on relationships, but I know the importance of modeling a marriage after God's love, cause like I said, He is love. Since all relationships are based on God's timing, I am patiently waiting in His love. I'm fully embracing that love since there is none like it. There is no greater love that the love he provides for me daily. 

~Holly

Online Shopping

When I first think of online shopping, I think the worst. I have always heard of addicted shoppers and credit card balances way to high! As children we were never allowed to so I always just believed it be something I didn't want to get entangled in.

Then I was introduced to Pinterest. Although its not specifically an online store it definitely has opened my eyes to a lot of safe online shopping. Which may or may not be a good thing. I have had to do a lot of party planning lately, my best friends just keep getting married on me. So, the party planning begins and my money saving instincts kick in. I wanted to plan the greatest parties but sometimes that calls for more money then I currently have. I have to buy gifts, supplies, favors, and anything else that may be needed at a moments notice. I always look for places with free shipping or promotional codes that are easily accessed. Here are some of my favorites:

http://www.baublebar.com/

Such a great sight for all your jewelry needs. They have trendy and chic accessories that is fitting for business and a girls night out. When you purchase from their sight you not only get cute jewelry but you are rewarded points. 1 point = $1.00, you can apply those points to your future purchases.

http://www.urbanpeachboutique.com/

Another one of my favorites, that I've used for wedding jewelry, is Urban Peace. Currently they have 30 days of giveaways! I suggest jumping on that right away. Such a fun and flirty style!

http://www.etsy.com/

Of course, you probably already know all about Etsy. It's been blowing up Pinterest! I used Etsy for some very cute bridal shower invitations. Etsy is everything crafty! From jewelry to woodwork to invitations! Anything you order from Etsy is from a personal store so costs are all different. 

http://www.6pm.com/

My favorite place to shop for things online is 6pm! They pretty much have all my favorite brands! The greatest part about their website is the price listed is what you pay. No shipping or tax costs! I highly recommend this website. Not only is it cheap but you get what you want fast! 

Shopping online can be scary. I always thought I would be cheated out of my money. But if you find the right places then I would say shopping online is a safe bet for those days that you just don't have time to look anywhere else but the internet! Shop away my friends, shop away (responsibly of course)!

She's Married

The day finally came! My long-time best friend got married! It is crazy to me how we have anticipated this event for so long and in a matter of 5 hours its over. It had to be one of the greatest times spent with my best friend. I've said it before and I will say it again, I find it truly incredible to see my best friend find the man that God has specifically designed for her. I've seen God work in her life and change her heart to be a selfless, caring, Proverbs 31 woman. To finally see her husband, whom God shaped and molded to fit together perfectly, baffles me. A relationship and marriage like theirs really just proves how big our God really is. It is encouraging to see how prevalent God's hand is in our lives.

This weekend we celebrated life, relationship, and most importantly the union of two beautiful people. The day of the wedding began with errands, food pick up, and decorating. We jammed to sappy, love songs and our favorite country tunes. As the time started getting nearer we got dressed, did our make-up and curled our hair. I had the honor of doing Court's hair. I was stressed but it turned out beautifully and she was a gorgeous bride. The ceremony entailed such genuine vows, joyful tears, and an unquestioned loved. I feel blessed to be a part of it all and so happy I have an outstanding couple to call some of my closest friends.

The bridesmaid after the rehearsal 

Grubbing at the steakhouse for the rehearsal dinner 

I had quite the weekend! Fortunately, I had a four day weekend, so I was a happy camper! It started off with my 23rd birthday. Courtney and Brittany took me to eat at Snooze, one of my favorite breakfast places.  If you ever go there be sure to taste their cinnamon roll pancake! Delish! They spoiled me with a Magic Bullet! I was so happy. You know your getting older when you get excited for appliances as a gift.

After breakfast it was time to celebrate Court. Her bachelorette party was a 2 day event! We had a beer-bike scavenger hunt in 80's workout gear. She had to accomplish tasks such as dueling a stranger to a sword fight (which she won of course), holding hands with strangers, and taking pictures with a guy shorter than her (she is a whopping 5'2"). Needless to say it created a lot of laughter and memories. Saturday we ventured to a fun shop called "Ceramics in the City." We painted pottery and drank some mimosas. That night we took Denver nightlife by storm. Okay, maybe not, but we did dance the night away at the Cowboy Lounge. It turned out to be a fun weekend to celebrate Court and her union with Nick. 

To end the Memorial Day weekend I ran the Bolder Boulder. I always enjoy running races. Its a mental battle that I love to win. I like to say I have killer endurance but running definitely challenges that! My goal was to run the 6.2 mile race in 45 minutes. I'm proud to say I beat that goal with a 44:42. Turned into a fun day with friends and family celebrating the many men and women who fought for our country! 

HAPPY HUMP DAY! 

Transitions and Encouragement

Yay, to a new start! I never thought the day would come when I would move out of my parents house and start a career. My whole life all I've known is 9 months of school and 3 months of summer. I had a cozy room at my parents house, hung out with my friends, and basically was "living the dream." I had a great childhood and upbringing. There always comes a day when its time to grow up! :) Recently, I just received job at a law firm doing receptionist work. Fortunately, my sister works there so it has made for an easy transition. To make more of our sister bonding time, I moved in with her and her husband. I am feeling extremely fortunate to be where I am. The Lord really answered my prayers, and has blessed me in so many undeserving ways. I am excited for these new beginnings.
I will admit, I miss my parents already (I'm a home body). They have really prepared me for the big events in life though. I am blessed to model my life after a woman like my mom. She has genuine, bold heart that represents a Proverbs 31 woman. My dad is my go to. He is selfless and a man of after God's heart. He wants the best for each and every one of us (even my friends). Needless to say, I have been prepared for this new phase in my life and I'm glad I dont have to do it alone. I have my beautiful sisters next to me and outstanding parents to give me encouragement.

New Beginnings

Change, change, change. Its a hard and so exciting at the same time! As a recent college grad I think change has been the most prevalent in my life, as of recently. My routine for the past 17 years has been 9 months of school and 3 months of summer. Nothing changed, and I liked my routine. I could always count on pool days in the summer and a long Christmas break in the winter. Life was easy :) boy, did I take that for granted.

However, I do realize as we grow it sparks a different level of maturity. I have responsibilities, duties, and obligations that I haven't before. There are needs to be met, friends and family to love on, and goals to be accomplished. As much as I cherish the moments I had in grade school and in college I realize how happy I am to be where I am today.

Its been 5 months since I have graduated college and there has been some significant changes. My two childhood best friends are engaged and planning weddings within months of each other. Being in both of their weddings is a lot to grasp. The first one is coming up in less than a month! My 5 best friends from college (including the two from childhood) are all moving into new homes and pursuing careers! It is such an exciting time for them and I genuinely love supporting them. In a lot of ways I feel left behind, not because of anything that they are doing but because I am simply not there yet. I'm on my way though!

I have been working for a company from Fort Collins for about 3 months now but recently just accepted a job in Denver! It has been my dream to work in the heart of Denver. My degree is along the lines of marketing and being in the city makes it easier to pursue those career goals. I am fortunate enough to have a supportive family who is pulling for me with this change. My sister, Lauren, and her husband, Luis, are gracious enough to let me live them for awhile as I transition.

Change is scary but it is inevitable. I cant wait to see what God has in store for not only myself but my best friends. Change is biblical, (Proverbs 16:9), "In their hearts humans plan their course, but the Lord establishes their steps." God's plans are unfolding for each of our lives, and this verse gives comfort and makes it easy to embrace the change.

Life comes in many colors. I think in the past month I've seen the rainbow spread across mine. From wedding planning to new jobs I think I've experienced more than my fair share of "tasting the rainbow" (punny I know). My best friends from childhood are both getting married within months of each other! In many ways its hard to grasp! However, seeing the man that God created and designed specifically for each of them hard to put into words. Each are unique and have different characteristics and qualities about them. Which just proves that their significant others are tailored to match them exactly. I am so excited to celebrate these moments with them this summer. I figured I could share a little of that with you.

Courtney and I's friendship started with knee kicker soccer. We fortunately lived down the street from each other so were able to play often. We never attended the same school so when Court stopped playing soccer and pursued basketball our friendship became more of acquaintances, occasionally running into each other here and there.

God knew what he was doing though. I attended college at Colorado State in Fort Collins and Court was at Metro State in Denver. She decided to transfer not knowing anyone but myself. A few things fell through with my roommate situation and we were looking for a third. Court just so happened to contact me at that time. I am so thankful she did. I look back at my college career and couldn't have done it without her. She's my "lil boy twirp." I lived life with someone who is quick to listen and slow to speak, but when she does its wisdom. She has a huge heart and goes extra lengths to show she cares. I admire the way she loves selflessly and gives her time generously. I'm so happy she found Mr. Nick. There is no one better suited for her.

Brittany and I have been best friends since kindergarten. Believe it. The first day of kindergarten we sat across the table from each other and since that day we've been buds. We went to school together from kindergarten to 8th grade, until I switched high schools. We were still attached at the hip. I was so proud, and still am to call her my best friend.

I love seeing God work in friendships. Britt chose a small college in Hastings, Nebraska to play volleyball. Although we weren't close in location our relationship was still the same. We talked once or twice a week about college life. Britt was hit with some pretty traumatic experiences that led her home. She decided to transfer to CSU our junior year of college. I would never have pictured us attending the same college yet God had other plans. We weren't able to live together at the time since her decision to transfer was a little late. However, she moved in with some of my closest friends. Britt and I know share the best group of friends anyone could ask for. I am the woman I am today because of her. She has a servant heart and is ready and willing to be by your side whenever needed. She loves to love and shows you that through conversation. She flourishes when she is able to give advice and pray for others. I'm thankful for who she is and who she has become. I couldn't have chosen a better soft hearted, loving man for her then Chris.


All in all, I feel blessed beyond belief to have these two women in my life. I love living life with them. They show grace, mercy, and love so selflessly. I see Jesus in them daily. My faith grows a lot stronger when I able to recognize His love displayed through them. Thanks best friends.

Intro

     Creating a blog is difficult and a little strange. The concept of writing out your thoughts for all to read is an interesting concept. However, it is an opportunity to reach others with valuable insight into things that I may find important. I am excited to write on the things I love such as food, fitness, friends, and family. Wow, thats some alliteration!
     God has been continually blessing me as I transition from college to career. Although, I am still in the process and have not found my career He has given me an overwhelming peace about His plans for my life. It is hard for me to question His plans when I know that without His intervention I wouldn't be where I am today. I am thankful that I am not in control. One decision can change your life, and thankfully God is love, He's in control, and He is good. I hope you enjoy my blog of all things me. I intend to use this as a way of not only informing but hopefully blessing those who read it.