I have been pondering the concept of community for a few months now. I firmly believe that it's important to run along side people who build you up and are in the same stage of life as you are currently. For years, growing up and even when I first moved to Colorado, I would constantly pray for friends. Great friends. Friends that were of quality and people I could do life with. As time went on, I did actually gain some authentic friendships. But as seasons changed, so did my community. In the past, I have taken people leaving so personally. I've been offended, felt betrayed, and even cried asking God why. Let me point out, this was my own process and they were not in the wrong, but for years these types of changes hurt me. It wasn't until a few months ago, when I was processing it all in my car (which means I was probably talking to myself like a mad woman) did I realize where it was all stemming from. I was believing a lie. I said it out loud in my car and it shocked and disgusted me all at once: I believed that if I was a better leader, my community would have stayed. How heavy is that? It is a lie filled with guilt and shame, but I felt so free that I could finally identify the root cause. 

My encouragement to you is to find the root cause for why it is that things hurt you. When our physical bodies are in pain, the pain is pointing to where the problem lies. My hand won't hurt if my I stubbed my toe. I don't think we should dwell in our pain, but perhaps we could use it to identity where we need to be mending. It is in our best interest to be whole, healthy people. So currently, I am working on dispelling the lies that try to live in my head. From now on, I won't let them, because I am no longer a victim to those lies. 

When your grandmother turns 90, you do everything you can to celebrate her. These photos are a little late to the blog, so forgive me. And as it turns out, when you add a bunch of people and a few kids, getting a photo where everyone is smiling is more difficult than you think. Isn't that just like family- a bunch of complicated, beautiful people loving each other. I'm so grateful that these are my people. Happy birthday, grandma! You legacy is a powerful one. Your gentle spirit speaks volumes. I love you!

Watches are a lost art. There used to be something significant about having a watch and even passing it down to a loved family member. The elegance has been lost with the fast pace of technology and "smart watches," but Jord Watches has done something spectacular with their wood watches. They have created a product that is appealing to a variety of people with a variety of styles. I am sporting the Frankie watch style.  It's made of  100% natural, hand-finished woods which is treated to be splash-proof! The Frankie has an oversized masculine feel that is cool accessory to any outfit. I've gotten several compliments when I've worn this wood watch out. I'm obsessed. Check out some of the other Women's Wooden Watches HERE. Also, for you gift-giving-gals, there are more unique watches to choose from your guy, too! You can see all the Jord Men's Watches HERE. 

Want one for yourself? I've partnered up with Jord Watches to giveaway $100 code to go towards any of their watches! Once you enter you are given a consolation code worth $25, which will be given out on September 24.  So in a way it's like everyone is a winner! Just click on the link HERE. What are you waiting for!?

Currently stocking up on all the low back items that I can get my hands on. This dress is found on Shop Tobi's website and works for those transitions to cooler evening because it's a sweater dress. The best thing about it, is that it's easy, You know when an look just is cute without trying? Well, this one's it.