tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15491185417111677402024-02-07T16:45:24.369-05:00Camo & PearlsEmilyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02942686989321555815noreply@blogger.comBlogger45125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1549118541711167740.post-45771126966625121182018-04-28T14:35:00.000-04:002018-04-28T14:35:06.423-04:00Looking Ahead<br />
Hi y'all :)<br />
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As I sit here, a warm afternoon breeze is coming through the window, rustling the curtains beside me. Birds are chirping outside and if I listen closely enough, I can hear the creek on the other side of our yard. Supper is in the slow-cooker; it's southern pulled-pork tonight, with either sweet potato fries or mashed potatoes <span style="font-size: x-small;">(I can't decide :p)</span><br />
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It finally feels like spring at our little farmhouse, and I'm enjoying all the hope and cheerfulness that spring and sunshine always seem to bring. I just had another birthday, and soon hubby and I will be celebrating our 1st anniversary. Life feels perfect right about now, which also has an anxiety about it--the moments where life seems perfect almost seem too good to be real, and I'm left wondering how long it will last.<br />
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But I've learned that life is basically an ocean, and with every ocean, there are waves. Sometimes you speed across the waves, with the fresh saltwater spraying in your face and the sun in your hair. Then, other times you are sinking beneath the water, and the waves keep hitting you in the head, over and over and over, leaving you gasping for breath.<br />
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I know I've been sporadic as of late, and for that I apologize. I have enjoyed making our house a home, though. I've been baking and cooking like a crazy person, making all sorts of projects to decorate our home with, and spending time with good friends from nursing school. Not to mention that I read a novel for the first time IN TWO YEARS. That's right. Nursing school sucked the life out of me, and I so so enjoyed being able to sit down and read a book!<br />
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All the warm weather gets me excited for all the things I wasn't able to do since I was in school last summer. I already have plans for farmers markets, gardening, bike rides, and a million other summer bucket list ideas.<br />
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<i>What's the weather like where you are? What are you looking forward to doing this summer?</i></div>
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Emily xoxo<br />
<br />Emilyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02942686989321555815noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1549118541711167740.post-67104017017823928372018-03-21T11:49:00.000-04:002018-03-21T12:17:18.775-04:00How I Stay Productive Can I be honest for one moment? Some mornings, I feel like staying in my pajamas and doing nothing. Except maybe look at project ideas on Pinterest, dreaming of how productive I'm going to be. Finding the motivation to do it, though--that's the hard part!! I'm not claiming to be an expert at all, but I want to share a few things I do in my morning routine to help me stay productive through the rest of the day.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhppQ6Rk1UwPcBIzSFxbR_E4DCim7a-O0hCbEFg1OwMaaQNj6VCY3x4W79IbG0zIbLYQkKW-IiSYteX_4mR9jWebQxoqULLJLui5-agQG-26fnNnUUk6TPuDy3OXsHKpl-G2FM06rcAcPo/s1600/how_i_stay_productive.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="10 tips to be productive when you want to do absolutely nothing" border="0" data-original-height="1102" data-original-width="735" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhppQ6Rk1UwPcBIzSFxbR_E4DCim7a-O0hCbEFg1OwMaaQNj6VCY3x4W79IbG0zIbLYQkKW-IiSYteX_4mR9jWebQxoqULLJLui5-agQG-26fnNnUUk6TPuDy3OXsHKpl-G2FM06rcAcPo/s640/how_i_stay_productive.png" title="How I Stay Productive || Camo & Pearls" width="425" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">1. Wake up early. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">I wake up with hubby when he gets up for work, which is usually pretty early. As much as I love sleeping in on Saturdays, I have to admit that waking up early throughout the week is what keeps me motivated. It adds so many more hours for me to get stuff done, and gives me extra time to plan out my day that I might not have if I slept in till the last possible minute. Sleeping in also tends to make most people feel lethargic. So waking up early is a must for me!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">2. Drink a glass of hot lemon water</span></div>
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It doesn't taste great by any means, but drinking hot lemon water before breakfast has so many health benefits! It helps cleanse your gut, it contains vitamin C, and my skin, hair and nails, have been so clear and strong since I've started doing this. It really helps me feel less lethargic. I also try to drink cold lemon water throughout the day. The energy it gives me is amazing.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">3. Turn on your power music</span></div>
<span style="font-size: small;">I have to play music when I'm working. I usually like to start the morning with a praise and worship playlist, then I move on to other playlists depending on what mood I'm in. One of my favorite things to listen to is piano music. It helps me stay focused, but also relaxed. It's just the right amount of background noise. Here's one of my favorite stations to listen to on Spotify.</span><br />
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<iframe allow="encrypted-media" allowtransparency="true" frameborder="0" height="380" src="https://open.spotify.com/embed?uri=spotify:user:musiclabcollective:playlist:635MqX5a2yZk9ezHzxci6p" width="300"></iframe></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">4. Diffuse</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><i>{ Disclaimer: Before you use essential oils, PLEASE research them Some oils are harmful and even fatal to pets and children. So make sure you know what you are using. } </i>I am still learning about essential oils, but I love them! I got a diffuser for Christmas and use it all the time. There are so many different blends to diffuse that can helps motivate you, but my favorite blend right now is simply Orange and Frankincense. It smells great, and helps me stay focused. </span><span style="font-size: x-small;">(<a href="https://www.ellia.com/diffusers/adore-ultrasonic-aroma-diffuser" target="_blank">This is the diffuser I use</a>)</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgt8NT3GLteRv1vArbZvIvAAFJQcoa76ojVDEd1ihVsdALESIKk6TIyQsLvlMEFVWSYUB8odjVvmRfgvpMdYTCzsES2O8YBTTsJHtOklv5OmfQ1pRQ0ufyN9KsAxMxKT19DpRUcBH-q40Q/s1600/doTERRA_oils.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="10 tips to be productive when you want to do absolutely nothing" border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="1280" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgt8NT3GLteRv1vArbZvIvAAFJQcoa76ojVDEd1ihVsdALESIKk6TIyQsLvlMEFVWSYUB8odjVvmRfgvpMdYTCzsES2O8YBTTsJHtOklv5OmfQ1pRQ0ufyN9KsAxMxKT19DpRUcBH-q40Q/s400/doTERRA_oils.jpg" title="How I Stay Productive || Camo & Pearls" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">5. Have a game plan</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">If my day is planned out, then it's easier for me to stay focused. I like to break up my day into what needs done in the morning vs. afternoon chores. I try not to leave anything out. If I'm going to blog, I put that in my schedule, too. For me at least, having the accountability of writing down my goals for the day really helps. When I look back at my planner and see what I have/haven't accomplished, it makes me want to do even better the next day. It also helps me see if there's a better way for me to manage my time.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">6. Wash Face</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">I always start my morning off by washing my face. There's nothing like a splash of cold water to wake you up. haha. I use <a href="https://www.makeupartistschoice.com/Alpha-Hydroxy-Beta-Hydroxy-Cleanser_p_228.html" target="_blank">Alpha Hydroxy/Beta Hydroxy cleanser with tea tree oil from Makeup Artist's Choice</a>. I absolutely love it! It gives my skin that tingly sensation that feels so good and fresh first thing in the morning. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6LDXawXvxIthIJO4yY-iOBaxOp7RdcocuFM50fbF9qdZUEk-JSq3N8zuJg1wptoxtEY0FhUb2oCO_Rnxp9WqnlZvwqM0LjNl8Ay68WghmUMn9fnIovuuCvlvmMJZaRgobs2yBvK4NvI8/s1600/morning_face_cleanse_routine.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="10 tips to be productive when you want to do absolutely nothing" border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="1280" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6LDXawXvxIthIJO4yY-iOBaxOp7RdcocuFM50fbF9qdZUEk-JSq3N8zuJg1wptoxtEY0FhUb2oCO_Rnxp9WqnlZvwqM0LjNl8Ay68WghmUMn9fnIovuuCvlvmMJZaRgobs2yBvK4NvI8/s400/morning_face_cleanse_routine.jpg" title="How I Stay Productive || Camo & Pearls" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Some of the other products I use in my morning routine</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">7. Workout/yoga</span></div>
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My workout time is usually in the afternoon, so this isn't really part of my morning routine. But working out, along with yoga, help my productivity so much. I was out of the habit of working out, but have recently gotten back to it and I can't even begin to say how my better I feel! I'm able to get so much more done now that I'm working out every day.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">8. Read Bible</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">This one is a must-have for me. Days where I go without reading my Bible usually end up with me feeling "blah" all around. My attitude and productivity are so much better when I make time to read my Bible. I also enjoy it the more I read. One of my favorite passages to read when I'm not feeling very motivated is Proverbs 31.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">9. "Me Time"</span></div>
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It's so important to take some time for you during your day. I know if I keep pushing myself, I usually get burnt out. I like to schedule breaks where I can do something I enjoy throughout the day; whether it's reading, writing, playing the piano, yoga, whatever. The days I get the most done are the days where I take a couples moments to do focus on self-care.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">10. Remember why you're working.</span></div>
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Sometimes, even when I do all these things, I still feel like giving up. I have zero motivation. What I try to remember though, is why I'm working--or rather for <i>who</i> I'm working for. When I'm productive it benefits not only me, but also my hubby. I know he appreciates everything I do. And it brings us a step or two closer to having our own home someday. Even when I'm trying new recipes, or working on decor projects, I try to remember why I put so much time into them--because I'm working on skills and products that will help my family.<br />
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Basically, what I've found is that when it comes to staying productive, <b>it's all about having a routine!! </b>When you're in the habit of getting stuff done, it's hard to break that habit <span style="font-size: x-small;">(duh.)</span>. Like I said, I'm far from figuring it all out, but all these things have helped me so, so much in the last year as a new wife and also as someone who plans to start a business.<br />
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<i>How do you stay productive? What keeps you motivated throughout your day?</i><br />
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Emily<br />
xoxoEmilyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02942686989321555815noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1549118541711167740.post-58036021636196505412018-03-18T16:09:00.000-04:002018-03-18T16:09:12.046-04:00Throw Away Your Map<br />
I graduated from nursing school on August 6th, 2017.<br />
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I planned on getting a job shortly after.<br />
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I was going to start saving money so hubby and I could build a house, buy me a shiny black SUV, and hopefully start our own family.<br />
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Life had other plans.<br />
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Here I sit, still searching for a job.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGkC8lCYokLSjZ6g3VIhrZwz6Auxi0WLrKj7dsf6JcRcMLh6cdR4HgIXcQ3GZh3ChBaxsTE55bLWpeTbvaR4aatDM2lDYVEAvKWV3uBjjBt31wa2N908z-eVRcW9XmHfg16QmECfpvOFw/s1600/054.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGkC8lCYokLSjZ6g3VIhrZwz6Auxi0WLrKj7dsf6JcRcMLh6cdR4HgIXcQ3GZh3ChBaxsTE55bLWpeTbvaR4aatDM2lDYVEAvKWV3uBjjBt31wa2N908z-eVRcW9XmHfg16QmECfpvOFw/s640/054.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
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I know that it's partly my fault. I'm being picky because I want to make sure that whatever job I have is a good fit for both me and my employer. I want a cheery work atmosphere and normal hours. Those are hard to find when you're a baby-nurse, at the way bottom of the totem pole.<br />
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But I never dreamed I'd still be searching for that dream job.<br />
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If you're like me, you spent the end of your teen years planning out your life. You drew yourself a perfect map, complete with a plan B, plan C, and escape routes for every imaginable obstacle. You added the last stroke of road on your beautiful map and sat back to look at your creation. You couldn't help but smile at the way your life was going to go. <i>Nothing can go wrong now.</i><br />
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You started on your life journey. Sure, you had to take a couple detours, but you planned for those, too. There were even a couple times when you shrugged and said "Oh well. Plans change" and you added another road on your map.<br />
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But then, the unthinkable happens. That one detour you didn't account for springs out of no where. The one thing you never dreamed would happen. Or, maybe the one road you were sure on taking turns out to not exist. Either way, you suddenly realize that your map is now worthless.<br />
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I know, I'm incredibly naive.<br />
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I'm not saying that plans are bad. It's great to have a game-plan. But as I said, it's so naive to think that our plans aren't going to change. Doors open and shut and we have to learn to trust God in the hallway. We have to accept that we don't get to decide what opportunities we are given. Sometimes bad things happen to good people. And sometimes, good things don't happen to good people.<br />
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Am I disappointed that I don't have a job yet? Of course. But at the same time, I've been able to spend lots of time focusing on being a new wife; I've been able to go to a weekly Bible study that I wouldn't have been able to go to if I had a job; there were times this winter where I would never have been able to get my car out of the driveway due to snow. While I don't necessarily believe that there is a specific reason for not having a job yet, I do think that it has benefited me in a lot of ways. It for sure has taught me patience!<br />
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So from here on out, I'm going to throw away my map, because the truth is that I can't map out my life. All I can do is my absolute best, and put the rest in God's hands. Besides, sometimes it's fun not knowing what is going to happen next :)<br />
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Emily<br />
xoxoEmilyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02942686989321555815noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1549118541711167740.post-86376254108745069682018-03-14T13:31:00.000-04:002018-03-14T15:01:41.057-04:00March Playlist<br />
March crept up without any warning. I really don't mind. The sun doesn't set until after 7:30 and the days have been bright and sunny. I've been able to open up my windows a few times and enjoy the sound of birds chirping along with my music. It's amazing what a sunny day can do for your spirit, y'all.<br />
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Here's some songs that I've been listening to a lot lately. I hope y'all enjoy them as much as I do.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3462jCraWVoTkycPpvZKHJXK2H4iZTSL6dGirYg4hw0P83F5rEgaaA3BNOxu5fMYoyFf8VUjNm9YS6CqmE9IItwzOJEI88gIqZ0A-6r9IljVssP13rzW4tmdSdgpVc9AUe0LRpRWMUUw/s1600/March+Playlist.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="800" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3462jCraWVoTkycPpvZKHJXK2H4iZTSL6dGirYg4hw0P83F5rEgaaA3BNOxu5fMYoyFf8VUjNm9YS6CqmE9IItwzOJEI88gIqZ0A-6r9IljVssP13rzW4tmdSdgpVc9AUe0LRpRWMUUw/s640/March+Playlist.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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<iframe allow="encrypted-media" allowtransparency="true" frameborder="0" height="380" src="https://open.spotify.com/embed?uri=spotify:user:ema_paige:playlist:5wnkuQpGrstTbqUnrWhkU1" width="300"></iframe><br />
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<i>What songs are you obsessed with right now?</i></div>
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Emily</div>
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xoxo</div>
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Emilyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02942686989321555815noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1549118541711167740.post-48364326636242155692018-03-05T15:14:00.000-05:002018-03-05T15:14:10.097-05:00Finding My Place<br />
I'm 21. Almost 22. I'm used to being the youngest, whether it be in a classroom or in my circle of friends.<br />
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At 18, you're considered a legal adult. You graduate from high school. You drive yourself crazy trying to decide what you want to do for the rest of your life. You have advice flung at you, whether you ask for it or not. It's a horrible time of life, because you have to decide who you are and who you want to be.<br />
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Or do you? I still catch myself saying, "When I grow up, I want to..." and then realize that I am grown up. What do I want?<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNRbmijszywR7eLg9eF6bR3U3JwjX_PKkdKT0cfIzJ2yvgOEOw1t7lQEviJMgHyix5f7wR8tO15shPBIgD9KHbrWvDxioU-MO_5QBwAHBbwEyr-cKy_XTzEO9f2AwCndkQ8_cRFrCl_oc/s1600/tree.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNRbmijszywR7eLg9eF6bR3U3JwjX_PKkdKT0cfIzJ2yvgOEOw1t7lQEviJMgHyix5f7wR8tO15shPBIgD9KHbrWvDxioU-MO_5QBwAHBbwEyr-cKy_XTzEO9f2AwCndkQ8_cRFrCl_oc/s640/tree.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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What happens to all the dreams and hobbies we gave our time to growing up? Can anyone tell me? I took a moment for self reflection the other day. There are so many things I enjoy. So many things that I want to do, want to be. I love blogging, for instance. This blog has been a place where fourteen year-old me would post random stories about what I ate for lunch. It has been a place where seventeen year-old me posted novel snippets.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJaiK3Kd7nNt7qMeXH23ONiriW5X2Y84VTvI-RWhiKg3ZiTIW6OqhZPcgAtTiJEv0RNMfKvyuAGI5O_m33hHbkaI_jv3SoUVOEWfKEZPHdf8wsoJGsaLH1X9hObwYLqiqL9cJn9Flme2E/s1600/path.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJaiK3Kd7nNt7qMeXH23ONiriW5X2Y84VTvI-RWhiKg3ZiTIW6OqhZPcgAtTiJEv0RNMfKvyuAGI5O_m33hHbkaI_jv3SoUVOEWfKEZPHdf8wsoJGsaLH1X9hObwYLqiqL9cJn9Flme2E/s640/path.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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Yet somehow, adult me is at a loss for words <span style="font-size: x-small;">(which I assure you, is a rare occurrence)</span>.<br />
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I have read blogs on how to blog better. And each one says to find my niche, to find one thing and focus on it. That's so hard for me because I switch topics unconsciously sometimes <span style="font-size: x-small;">(sorry)</span>. Guess what? That got me burnt out. And I was so focused on finding the right thing to write, that I just stopped blogging. I stopped <i>writing period</i>.<br />
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I suppose you could say that I am still finding my place. But I know that my "place" isn't just one niche--it's a collection of little things: I still love to write and I'm a foodie who dreams of starting a food blog. I've discovered that sometimes it's more important to <i>do something </i>than to sit and wait for the right thing to appear. My husband once told me that making mistakes is good, because it means you're at least trying.<br />
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So here's to making mistakes. And here's to being authentically messy.<br />
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Emily<br />
xoxoEmilyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02942686989321555815noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1549118541711167740.post-81971840223729062242018-02-14T15:33:00.000-05:002018-02-14T15:33:05.688-05:00Valentines Day Playlist<div style="text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi79mN2PdkWD0nWdqv7t67BkNok57_uGioAiC4ET1DrIWUdv9WElB1QhHalBJ5HG2VDWM3-dOmuMNhNSPRZi-RMtqn0ZkuPxfLe8N8S9Pgi6K0IVSdhwPUg_KOAh6WOaLxJmSdItCnIkAg/s1600/Ultimate+Valentines+Playlist.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="800" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi79mN2PdkWD0nWdqv7t67BkNok57_uGioAiC4ET1DrIWUdv9WElB1QhHalBJ5HG2VDWM3-dOmuMNhNSPRZi-RMtqn0ZkuPxfLe8N8S9Pgi6K0IVSdhwPUg_KOAh6WOaLxJmSdItCnIkAg/s640/Ultimate+Valentines+Playlist.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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It's that time of year again. Whether you're just a hopeless romantic dreaming of that special someone, or getting ready for a big date night, here are some of the songs that I am considering necessities this Valentine's day with the hubby. The last two songs, <i>From the Ground Up </i>and <i>At Last</i> were played at my wedding, so they hold a special spot in my heart.</div>
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<iframe allowtransparency="true" frameborder="0" height="380" src="https://open.spotify.com/embed?uri=spotify:user:ema_paige:playlist:2v6Qqv71SvuSAXZyGc50OJ" width="300"></iframe><br />
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<i>What songs are on your Valentine's playlist?</i></div>
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Emily</div>
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xoxo</div>
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Emilyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02942686989321555815noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1549118541711167740.post-90326411457559797342018-01-01T13:27:00.000-05:002018-01-01T13:27:21.140-05:00A Blank Book<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Another year has come to an end and a new year has taken its place. Today is a fresh start, the first page of a blank book. For the first time ever, I am not sad to say goodbye to 2017. True, it was undoubtedly the best year ever--I got engaged, married, I graduated, my friendships grew stronger.... Memories were made. Yet the same year that filled my heart with so much joy also broke my heart. Loss has a way of blindsiding you--and that's also what 2017 brought. 2017 hurt people I love, and that in turn hurt me. My very best friend--the person who was like a big sister to me--had to move halfway across the country. And while I've learned that growing up means having to say goodbye, it doesn't make goodbyes any easier.</div>
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So good riddance, 2017. I'm more than ready to be done with you and see what 2018 has in store. You taught me so much, 2017. And while I may not be happy with the methods you have of teaching me, I am truly stronger and grateful for what I've learned. </div>
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As for you, 2018, I have a million and one things that I want to do and be better at this year. But instead of writing them all down, I'm going to stick with my tradition of choosing one word for the year. It wasn't nearly as hard to know what I want to focus on.</div>
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<b>Veracity</b> is my one word. Veracity... because I want to be in the habit of being honest with myself and with others. 2017 taught me the value of honesty. I know the sinking feel of knowing someone is telling you a lie. I know how keeping your feelings inside can eat you alive. So for 2018, my goal is to be an authentic, transparent person. As Philippians 4:8 says, "Whatever is true ..... think on these things."</div>
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Looking at the following photos make me smile. Most of them are very poorly taken, but they hold memories that remind me how blessed I am. 2017 may have been a roller-coaster of a year, but it will be a year that I know is going to stand out in my memory. I guess you could say I grew up in 2017. Even more than that, 2017 helped me find out who I am--or want to be--in this crazy world. It was a year of transformation. I still have so much to figure out, but I can honestly say that I broke out of the cocoon and opened my wings for the first time.</div>
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2018, get ready for me to take flight.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDmZfCLRvLWR97jic4ED9btHG7SCLb9kB0ie804SE2j5-RiEIW8unTnO3iyhGibpFGRGNfKp-RtU8MzlIkTUTnSHgAkFlot1REwsUm182SN0-luCG9E0R0JYNMPaISumWjjCe5w0FW7yI/s1600/125.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDmZfCLRvLWR97jic4ED9btHG7SCLb9kB0ie804SE2j5-RiEIW8unTnO3iyhGibpFGRGNfKp-RtU8MzlIkTUTnSHgAkFlot1REwsUm182SN0-luCG9E0R0JYNMPaISumWjjCe5w0FW7yI/s400/125.jpg" width="266" /></a></div>
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//engagement photots//</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLJfHuxDGVnnryZpFELGtzmeR55N5zd0SXXVIoop2ClLgt5CQarzox0rnhES68neeq_um79k4oaf74zYlHqaBHusIJM5wWRykAwj8YX9qtedKxLCAdLoTE0HmOAOPbBWFkuVuiFYOBm-Y/s1600/074.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLJfHuxDGVnnryZpFELGtzmeR55N5zd0SXXVIoop2ClLgt5CQarzox0rnhES68neeq_um79k4oaf74zYlHqaBHusIJM5wWRykAwj8YX9qtedKxLCAdLoTE0HmOAOPbBWFkuVuiFYOBm-Y/s400/074.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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//nursing finals//</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBAo7QomQjIqFSx7gknFMI3jeZRgw1WTFVJcoiMlzf6il-sP7RfNtN3yOAgyXsbtpAPtLQXVpSM3gvvT8qq4NxD9iUvRphQYSJC8u0XZ6uZw0m4mF2KTfyx1upfvHWGlOkjiHgmtiJdKE/s1600/098.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBAo7QomQjIqFSx7gknFMI3jeZRgw1WTFVJcoiMlzf6il-sP7RfNtN3yOAgyXsbtpAPtLQXVpSM3gvvT8qq4NxD9iUvRphQYSJC8u0XZ6uZw0m4mF2KTfyx1upfvHWGlOkjiHgmtiJdKE/s400/098.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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//honeymoon road trip//</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpTHfDmxdb5cO7sst_zUogTgGYoodXQ3MaiKDix1fI8izog9KYO883XypYcg6iU1sbwTMZC_ArSmEfRC8RQepE-a1OpkWS0j2S4l9heNrI7Q9HJd-xy66fNGSx7JH5lKwwVlmS5snc2sw/s1600/141.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="784" data-original-width="1600" height="195" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpTHfDmxdb5cO7sst_zUogTgGYoodXQ3MaiKDix1fI8izog9KYO883XypYcg6iU1sbwTMZC_ArSmEfRC8RQepE-a1OpkWS0j2S4l9heNrI7Q9HJd-xy66fNGSx7JH5lKwwVlmS5snc2sw/s400/141.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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//honeymoon road trip//</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikPsxROqs0lPxVjtvC6A7xjP07LwrHZU8RuCSjb-k1AowXsuBdI0-U3S5hOzyp3wTTBlrGgrgorJrn5ktZY4zE0PNmvDY-vdWExuaREGhJTvjdpg718jcRyr_yxPHAEKSkF5bRaBIvb3o/s1600/236.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1068" data-original-width="1600" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikPsxROqs0lPxVjtvC6A7xjP07LwrHZU8RuCSjb-k1AowXsuBdI0-U3S5hOzyp3wTTBlrGgrgorJrn5ktZY4zE0PNmvDY-vdWExuaREGhJTvjdpg718jcRyr_yxPHAEKSkF5bRaBIvb3o/s400/236.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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//wedding day//</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtKdywH8MQZ8Qnr8Kb-cWIrwTgCLgrWXi0D-KFKuEkiSa8Tb7tHIyIGCnzh58r37nVYo65iSvV96gCs3TDGFNZXrPz3xaYlfzGPojLPNUnbYRfHTFW20sw7WUTJrw9F2QY2q9WJw-cM3I/s1600/279.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1068" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtKdywH8MQZ8Qnr8Kb-cWIrwTgCLgrWXi0D-KFKuEkiSa8Tb7tHIyIGCnzh58r37nVYo65iSvV96gCs3TDGFNZXrPz3xaYlfzGPojLPNUnbYRfHTFW20sw7WUTJrw9F2QY2q9WJw-cM3I/s400/279.jpg" width="266" /></a></div>
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//wedding day cake-cutting//</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhb2lEUCrhx4GPEhsyNaGAGUNf4nd7PWQHE6aMd3LUZn_ktmkpGrHzZhnYws0dPR7YkBQlUxasIXsO54DBPX7E1Dpr_luA_4L2fORrjw3Pw5MogxrUWhgkdfZLcFcVL4blh-kxqp1cfjac/s1600/502.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1068" data-original-width="1600" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhb2lEUCrhx4GPEhsyNaGAGUNf4nd7PWQHE6aMd3LUZn_ktmkpGrHzZhnYws0dPR7YkBQlUxasIXsO54DBPX7E1Dpr_luA_4L2fORrjw3Pw5MogxrUWhgkdfZLcFcVL4blh-kxqp1cfjac/s400/502.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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//wedding photos in the rain//</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzCxAzOhYtPZdh6XyDyyL8Kw9TM41or2Mr_zXKyHs9FO2JRImOZ0p32EHw7wV-ZXUqFKXO-yj5HEDUs0oCNjPv9VSALnO2xVLd1pufQ4iXHe7y860B95LLs_yMxm9Oyy7pW2qDcW-ewW0/s1600/042.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzCxAzOhYtPZdh6XyDyyL8Kw9TM41or2Mr_zXKyHs9FO2JRImOZ0p32EHw7wV-ZXUqFKXO-yj5HEDUs0oCNjPv9VSALnO2xVLd1pufQ4iXHe7y860B95LLs_yMxm9Oyy7pW2qDcW-ewW0/s400/042.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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//our first home//</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHEmvZauJTz0MTGgx4FXzVI68yStY5qffyDCaEL41ye5ur_AVBb_MWyWphrpLE2XXi3fqIoCqt7U9Q0bmtH0xC2EL1T0USbCpnEaEb68kIxwwrUKPzZpmJ3QoAUNNGaxU3GKjQNyDWEdw/s1600/064.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHEmvZauJTz0MTGgx4FXzVI68yStY5qffyDCaEL41ye5ur_AVBb_MWyWphrpLE2XXi3fqIoCqt7U9Q0bmtH0xC2EL1T0USbCpnEaEb68kIxwwrUKPzZpmJ3QoAUNNGaxU3GKjQNyDWEdw/s400/064.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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//baking in my own kitchen//</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgSdP_hCa1Tq1CDVtkBJa9x9uC3soNd268tmmckKVvq2fJqmioWy2lumI7RTX8kL9lZvu5BG6ATUSpTkpsKADT40rAKaSpeQKh2Zl-DGghUohZa-kIQbjl6KyQmlpxzUGP4l_lNww3iGU/s1600/090.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgSdP_hCa1Tq1CDVtkBJa9x9uC3soNd268tmmckKVvq2fJqmioWy2lumI7RTX8kL9lZvu5BG6ATUSpTkpsKADT40rAKaSpeQKh2Zl-DGghUohZa-kIQbjl6KyQmlpxzUGP4l_lNww3iGU/s400/090.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
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//graduation//</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfvfYoy5vNTWp1L03Q2Hwsld6cS71gB6WjgCzGAnp3f_7dRxqQVfuW9WBVILOOu5fuK7A2-W_-n0ttUUTIThJXrASmZ8_GdD-X2BZhtn7dvcgiNPDU4MjAqG6RnoCXJiWLN4mtpw72CRc/s1600/009.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfvfYoy5vNTWp1L03Q2Hwsld6cS71gB6WjgCzGAnp3f_7dRxqQVfuW9WBVILOOu5fuK7A2-W_-n0ttUUTIThJXrASmZ8_GdD-X2BZhtn7dvcgiNPDU4MjAqG6RnoCXJiWLN4mtpw72CRc/s400/009.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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//Ben (hubby) surprised my with my favorite place to eat//</div>
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<i>What are some of your favorite memories? Any goals for 2018?</i></div>
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Emily </div>
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xoxo</div>
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Emilyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02942686989321555815noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1549118541711167740.post-2484146740565842172017-12-20T11:41:00.001-05:002018-03-14T15:15:58.714-04:00Like a Mirror<br />
Someone once told me that trust is like a mirror; once broken, you can put the pieces back together, but there will always be cracks. I thought it was a poetic way to put it. I never realized how perfect the analogy was.<br />
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And then I grew up.<br />
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I am abundantly blessed with a husband, family, and friends who love me. Yet the older I get, the more I learn that sometimes people you have trusted your whole life--people you consider friends--are the very ones who let you down. Just because you trust someone doesn't mean that they won't lie. Just because you consider someone your friend doesn't mean they are. I know, those are naive statements. I know that I still am naive. But when it comes to trust... Unfortunately, I have lost the innocence of thinking that trusting in someone makes them trustworthy.<br />
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Some have said that I need to let go and move on. That forgiving means forgetting. Somehow, I don't think that is humanly possible. Just like in the mirror analogy, I can forgive someone for lying. I can reconcile with them. But there is always going to be that flicker of doubt. And unfortunately, the flicker sometimes grows into a raging flame if a hint of dishonesty appears.<br />
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Merriam-Webster defines <i>forgiveness a</i>s:<br />
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<span class="mw_t_bc" style="background-color: white; color: #3b3e41; font-family: "open sans" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; letter-spacing: 0.64px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">: </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #3b3e41; font-family: "open sans" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; letter-spacing: 0.64px;">to cease to feel resentment against (an offender) </span><span class="mw_t_bc" style="background-color: white; color: #3b3e41; font-family: "open sans" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; letter-spacing: 0.64px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">:</span></div>
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Even in the Bible, it never says that God forgets our sins. It says when He forgives us, He puts them far from His mind (Psalm 103:12). I can stop feeling angry when someone lies to me and yet still remember that they did lie. Forgiveness isn't putting a gun in the hands of the person who shot you. Forgiveness is saying, "You wronged me, but I will not keep bringing it up to you." </div>
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I'm not saying this to make an excuse for being angry or for </div>
not forgiving someone. I guess I'm just trying to make the point that healing takes time. You don't have to trust someone who lied to you in order to forgive them. Anyone who says differently has most likely never had their trust broken. Don't let other make you feel like the bad guy, just because you have trust issues. Because it's normal. And it's okay.<br />
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Emily</div>
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xoxo </div>
Emilyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02942686989321555815noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1549118541711167740.post-29226154561834354712017-10-30T13:10:00.001-04:002017-10-30T13:10:34.136-04:00The Scars We Choose // Playlist<div style="text-align: center;">
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Hello, lovelies!</div>
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NaNoWriMo is fast approaching (day after tomorrow!) What better way to get ready than to create a playlist of songs that set the tone for your story? </div>
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<iframe allowtransparency="true" frameborder="0" height="380" src="https://open.spotify.com/embed?uri=spotify:user:ema_paige:playlist:6aaH3KL31kpHBc4ZgoX9hS" width="300"></iframe></div>
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<i>Do you create playlists for your novels? How are you getting ready for NaNo?</i></div>
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Emily</div>
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xoxo</div>
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Emilyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02942686989321555815noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1549118541711167740.post-23997081544054219042017-10-12T14:58:00.001-04:002017-10-12T15:58:59.186-04:00Beautiful Books 2017 // Introducing...Hello, all! Even though I've already introduced <i>The Scars We Choose</i> to you<span style="font-size: x-small;"> (maybe even more than once.... so does that mean I'm re-troducing you???) </span>I have never gotten past the first two pages of this novel -- which means I'm using this plot as my 2017 NaNo novel. Maybe it's considering cheating, but hey, I like to live dangerously. So I invite you to sit back and enjoy (or don't enjoy. whatever floats your boat) as I link up to Beautiful Books, hosted by the fantastic blogs, <a href="http://paperfury.com/" target="_blank">Paper Fury</a> & <a href="http://www.furtherupfurtherin.net/" target="_blank">Further Up and Further In</a>. <span style="font-size: x-small;">Don't forget to check out their blogs -- you won't be sorry. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">1. What inspired the idea for your novel, and how long have you had the idea?</span><br />
After a psychology lecture two years ago, I asked my professor why we only spent five minutes covering PTSD. She said that unfortunately, most textbooks don't go into great detail over it because it isn't considered a "common" disorder. I've always been fascinated and also saddened by PTSD; I wanted to read a book about it and also raise awareness. So I decided to write the book I wanted to read.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">2. Describe what your novel is about!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;">Eleanor—or Ellie—Duran was the shining star of her nursing class. She immediately snagged her dream job working with veterans like her older brother. Then Ellie’s brother committed suicide.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;">Somehow she manages to continue working in the mental health ward until a soldier with PTSD is admitted. Ellie avoids this blue-eyed soldier who never smiles because he brings back too many painful memories for Ellie. After Ellie is forced to work with the soldier, Alex, they form a friendship. Ellie is the one person that Alex confides in and Ellie feels that talking with Alex helps her feel closer to her brother and understand what he went through</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Alex recovers in record time and is soon discharged from the hospital. Then Ellie's nightmares start. It appears as if this blue-eyed soldier -- who suddenly smiles all the time -- is following the same path as Ellie's brother. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">3. What is your book's aesthetic? Use words or photos or whatever you like!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">4. Introduce us to each of your characters! </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: medium;">Eleanor Duran graduated at the top of her nursing class. She quickly became a star employee at her new job. That all changed when her brother committed suicide. Fast forward through a leave of absence from work and months of grief counselling; </span><span style="font-size: medium;">Ellie thinks she might be close to learning how to move on with her life.Then she meets Alex.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: medium;">Alex Lucas didn't really know what to think when he was sent home to be treated for PTSD. But then, he couldn't really think. Instead, his head was filled with memories dressed as nightmares, taunting him, telling him what happened was his fault. Then he met a nurse who was just as broken as he was.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">5. How do you prepare to write? (Outline, research, stocking up on chocolate, howling, etc.?)</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">By reading the DSM-IV of course{insert evil chuckle}!! I get way too excited about reading psychology books. I'll also write a pretty in-depth outline, because at this point I don't really know what is going to happen in this novel. And of course, I'll stock up on York peppermint patties. Because is there any other way to write?? </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">6. What are you most looking forward to about this novel?</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">The character progression is going to be a bumpy ride. This will be by far the most emotional book I've read. And since I sob over sappy food commercials.... This should be interesting.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">7. List 3 things about your novel's setting.</span><br />
Coffee shops that play old records of Cass Elliot. A dark hospital room with a window that overlooks this spectacular coffee shop. A big city with too many memories.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">8. What's your character's goal and who (or what) stands in the way?</span><br />
Eleanor wants to forget what happened to her brother. She wants to be able to close her eyes and not see him in his casket. She finally gets one night of being able to sleep... And then she meets Alex and he takes away any hope of forgetting her brother that Eleanor had.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">9. How does your protagonist change by the end of the novel?</span><br />
<span style="font-size: medium;">Ellie learns that just because someone is "broken" doesn't mean that they are <i>broken </i>in the way she thought. She learns that broken does not mean you are destroyed; it simply means that you have hope of being fixed.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">10. What are your book's themes? How do you want readers to feel when the story is over?</span><br />
<span style="font-size: medium;">I want readers to have a new awareness of PTSD. There is so much more to it than we realize. Anyone can get PTSD, and it can happen through something as simple as seeing a traumatic event on TV.</span><br />
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The whole theme of <i>The Scars We Choose</i> is that the thing we want most is sometimes what makes the deepest scars. No matter how broken we become, though, there is always hope. If you're broken, you can still be fixed, you can still do great things. A cracked window still lets in beams of sunlight.<br />
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<i>Are you doing NaNoWriMo? Or maybe you aren't, but still have some lovely story in the works--I'm dying to hear!! Feel free to <a href="https://nanowrimo.org/participants/emily05" target="_blank">add me</a> as a writing buddy!</i><br />
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Emily<br />
xoxoEmilyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02942686989321555815noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1549118541711167740.post-25518686959482342252017-10-03T10:56:00.000-04:002017-10-03T10:56:16.214-04:00Hiding Behind Silence<br />
I always believed in keeping quiet.<br />
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The opening line of Katy Perry's song <i>Roar</i> described me perfectly: <i>I used to bite my tongue and hold my breath / Scared to rock the boat and make a mess / So I'd sit quietly / Agree politely.</i><br />
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I told myself that diplomacy and peace were more important than anything. I certainly didn't want to be considered a troublemaker.<br />
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And to a certain extent, I was right. We are called to be peaceful, and there are times when we should hold our tongues.<br />
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But I was hiding behind that.<br />
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Using excuses because <i>Oh no, what if people think I'm a troublemaker? I want people to like me.</i><br />
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I still want people to like me. I still don't want to be a troublemaker. But I've come to realize something.<br />
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Silence can be more deadly than words.<br />
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Not speaking the truth can hurt more people than the actual truth.<br />
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Finding a balance between shutting up and speaking out is a battle. Not to mention knowing how to say something without starting a war. </div>
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It's always better to stand for what you believe in. Because otherwise, you're a hypocrite. Evil will triumph when truth is silenced. I pray for discernment, for wisdom. Also, for courage. Courage to speak up, but especially for the courage to stay quiet when necessary; sometimes, we have to pick our battles.</div>
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So here's to stepping out in faith, to truly believing 2 Timothy 1:7: "God has not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and love, and of a sound mind." Here's to being the light and spreading the truth. Here's to not hiding.</div>
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Emily </div>
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xoxo</div>
Emilyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02942686989321555815noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1549118541711167740.post-57304621148389392102017-09-18T15:14:00.000-04:002017-09-23T14:49:06.308-04:00Beautiful People // An Old Edition <div style="text-align: center;">
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After a far-too-long break from writing, I am back at it! Kind of. I'm linking up with an old Beautiful People as I focus on my newest novel, <i>The Scars We Choose.</i> This book has a special place in my heart because 1) I love psychology and 2) this book is from the perspective of a nurse. I've always wanted to write a medical type story since I'm a total medical geek. <i>TSWC</i> is going to be one of the heaviest, most emotional books I've ever written, which makes me nervous <span style="font-size: x-small;">(because I'm normally a happy person, y'all)</span>. To help me with that, I'm going to try writing this story by hand, because that always makes my take my time and put more emotion into my work. <br />
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<a href="https://img.buzzfeed.com/buzzfeed-static/static/2013-12/enhanced/webdr02/3/17/enhanced-buzz-15711-1386111262-21.jpg?downsize=715:*&output-format=auto&output-quality=auto" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="333" data-original-width="500" height="213" src="https://img.buzzfeed.com/buzzfeed-static/static/2013-12/enhanced/webdr02/3/17/enhanced-buzz-15711-1386111262-21.jpg?downsize=715:*&output-format=auto&output-quality=auto" width="320" /></a><span style="font-size: large;">1. Give a brief overview of their looks. (Include a photo if you want!)</span></div>
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Close your eyes and picture the most stereotypical jock you can think of. That's Alex. Tall, tan, broad shoulders, huge biceps. His chiseled jaw has just the beginning of whiskers. When he's focused on something, creases appear on Alex's forehead because he squints his pale blue-gray eyes. On shaking his hand six months ago, you would have noticed a firm grasp and confident posture. Now, the grasp is a tentative one, and the straight posture appears tense. </div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">2. Share a snippet that involves description of their appearance.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><i>"So this was the difficult patient. This was the drop-dead gorgeous hunk who was, unfortunately, crazy. I ignored the disgust I felt in my stomach as I remembered the way my coworkers described him. I knocked on the door frame and announced that I was entering. "I heard your call bell. What can I do for you?"</i></span><br />
<i> I was met with pale blue-gray eyes, darkened by circles at the corners. When was the last time he slept?</i><br />
<i> "I-- I dropped a vase. I'm so sorry. I'll clean it up, I just need the cleaning supplies." His shaky voice didn't match his stiff posture.</i><br />
<i> "I'll get the supplies, and I'll gladly clean it for you." My voice didn't sound like my own. </i><br />
<i> "Please." His voice faded away into the dimness of the room. "I need to."</i><br />
<i> Of course he did. It was a matter of self-worth. I'd seen his broken attitude before in another clean-shaven soldier with a shaved head.</i><br />
<i> He caught my hesitation and gave a forced smile. If it could be called a smile. "Oh. I'm not allowed to do it myself." His pale eyes were soft, not mocking. "Don't worry. I'm not going to hurt myself with the broken pieces." His chuckle caught me off guard. "It would be kind of poetic, though--a broken soldier using a broken vase to end it all. I--"</i><br />
<i> I knew by the look on his face that mine had revealed something. Something that I had hoped to avoid by never coming into this room. Something that I wanted to forget. Something that, judging by the look in those pale eyes, he recognized.</i><br />
<i> My voice sounded as cold as I felt when I finally choked out words. "I'll get someone to clean this up."</i><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">3. What is the first thing people might notice about them?</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">The first thing noticed is usually Alex's smile. It's a rare thing to see his smile anymore, but when he does smile, it's contagious and shining. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">4. What are their unique features? (Ex: freckles, big ears, birthmarks, scars, etc.)</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">Strangers often describe Alex as "the hot soldier with the ridiculously white teeth." His smile seems to literally sparkle.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">5. How tall are they? What is their build? (Ex: stocky, slender, petite, etc.)</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Alex's medical record says 6'2" but he thinks he is really only 6'0" (he really is 6'2"). Years of working out have made his naturally muscular body even more sculpted. </span><br />
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<a href="https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/564x/7c/d0/3a/7cd03aa70f28329d7e7a0531e6e49369.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="❤️❤️ Scott Eastwood❤️❤️: " border="0" height="320" src="https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/564x/7c/d0/3a/7cd03aa70f28329d7e7a0531e6e49369.jpg" width="213" /></a><span style="font-size: large;">6. What is their posture like? How do they usually carry themselves?</span><br />
Alex has model posture. He was taught to sit up straight and stand at attention in the military. Instead of looking confident, he just looks stiff and uncomfortable now. Alex is always on the defensive, waiting for something to go wrong, and it's evident in the way he stands like he's bracing himself.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">7. You character has been seen on a "lazy day" (free from usual routine/expectations): what are they wearing and how do they look?</span></div>
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On a lazy day, Alex can be seen wearing his usual army green shirt with a pair of Levi jeans. Of course, he still has on his dog tags and military boots. He totally forgets about shaving on lazy days, and his five o'clock shadow is a little scruffier than usual.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">8. Do they wear glasses, accessories, or jewelry on a regular basis? Do they have any article of clothing or accessory that could be considered their trademark?</span></div>
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Alex never takes his dog tags off. Never. He holds on to them like a sort of rosary. Everyone at the hospital considers Alex's combat boots his trademark. He always wears his boots because he says they're more comfortable than any other shoe.</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">9. Have they ever been bullied or shamed because of their looks? Explain! </span></div>
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Alex was born with exceptionally good looks -- great bone structure, classic features, muscles... Because of that, the men in his unit teased him about being a "pretty boy."</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">10. Are they happy with how they look? If they could change anything about their appearance, what would it be? </span></div>
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Definitely. Alex loves the way he looks. He knows that he's healthy, and he's never had a problem getting a girlfriend. The only thing Alex would change is that he wishes he had more wounds -- the kind on the outside, instead of inside where they hurt the most. Alex feels guilty that his looks are intact while others are burnt and missing limbs.</div>
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How is your writing going? Any new projects that you are excited about?<br />
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Emily<br />
xoxo</div>
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Emilyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02942686989321555815noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1549118541711167740.post-3488325434600697052017-08-14T16:05:00.000-04:002017-08-14T16:05:09.693-04:00When Dreams Come True<div style="text-align: left;">
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WARNING: this is a long post, filled with pictures and possible gushing of emotions.</div>
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On May 6th, I married my best friend. It was a crazy day, filled with nervous butterflies, the biggest smiles of my life, and visiting with friends and family who came to town for the occasion. We are now renting on old farmhouse on a cattle farm and loving every minute of our new life together. Between me finishing nursing school and my hubby working ten hour days, it has been a crazy adjustment, but one that we love. I honestly couldn't ask for a better man. He has stood besides through so much and helped me graduate from nursing school on August 5th. I can't begin to say how much I love that man.</div>
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<i>What is new with you, lovelies?</i></div>
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<i>Emily </i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>xoxo</i></div>
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Emilyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02942686989321555815noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1549118541711167740.post-27184099920232096852017-03-07T19:55:00.001-05:002017-09-23T14:22:20.339-04:00I've Found the One Whom My Soul Loves<br />
On January 21st, 2017, my best friend asked me to marry him.<br />
<br />
And I said yes.<br />
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The past month has been a whirlwind of planning and school and enjoying the knowledge that I get to spend the rest of my life with my best friend. He loves God with his whole heart, he makes me laugh, he makes bets that I can't finish the 4 for 4 deal at Wendy's <span style="font-size: x-small;">(I won the bet by the way), </span>and I know he loves me.<br />
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When I was a little girl, I used to dream about this time of my life. I still can't believe it's happening to me. All those years day-dreaming on pinterest don't even matter. Who cares what the wedding colors are, what shoes I wear, or any of that--I'm in love with the most wonderful man in the world. It's crazy to look back and see how far we've come and how our love story unfolded. I mean, I just got used to saying "boyfriend" and now I get to say "fiance." I can't even begin to say how blessed I am that he's all mine!<br />
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So I may or may not be seen in the blogging world for a while. Between wedding planning <span style="font-size: x-small;">(two months to go!!)</span> and nursing school <span style="font-size: x-small;">(graduation=5 months), </span>I'm running around like a crazy person. But it's the best type of crazy :)<br />
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Remember how I said I had a feeling 2017 would be a good year? Well I guess it turned out to be the <b>best</b> year.<br />
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<i>How have you been my lovelies?</i><br />
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Emily<br />
xoxoEmilyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02942686989321555815noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1549118541711167740.post-80005841618330232492017-01-02T14:13:00.000-05:002017-09-23T14:22:44.627-04:002016 >> 2017<br />
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Well. Another year has come and gone. It seemed to go faster than any other. What can I say?<br />
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2016 has been one of the best years ever. So many answered prayers. So many laughs. So many happy memories. Sadly, I didn't cross everything off of my bucket list last year. But ya know what? That's okay. 2016 was full of too many good things to be upset about not getting everything accomplished. My boyfriend and I were able to cross off a ton of things off our shared bucket list. And that makes up for everything I wasn't able to do on my own.<br />
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<u>2016 Bucket List</u></div>
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<i>Finish </i>Out of the Ashes <i>and continue to edit </i>Beginning of the End</div>
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<i>Write more letters</i></div>
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<i>Workout everyday - if not everyday, then at least twice a week</i></div>
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<i><strike>Wear more dresses <span style="font-size: xx-small;">(because they're adorable)</span></strike></i></div>
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<i>Practice piano and voice everyday</i></div>
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<i><strike style="font-size: 15.4px;">Sing a solo in church</strike><span style="font-size: x-small;"> (3 times - not as scary as I thought)</span></i></div>
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<i><strike>Teach myself to play my ukulele</strike></i></div>
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<i>Go to the drive-in movies</i></div>
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<i>Read 20 books </i><span style="font-size: xx-small;">(pathetic, I know. but hey, my college schedule is crazy!)</span></div>
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<i><strike style="font-size: 15.4px;">Learn how to drive stick shift</strike><span style="font-size: 15.4px;"> </span><span style="font-size: x-small;">(eh, kinda)</span></i></div>
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<i>Learn how to change the oil in my car</i></div>
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<i>Start one of the novels on my To-Write list (other than my trilogy)</i></div>
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<i>Make one new recipe a week</i></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">I was able to get through my first semester of nursing school. I met some amazing people this year, and I can't imagine my life without them. One of my goals for 2016 was to be able to do at least one chin-up before the year was over. I didn't do it before the year was over, but I did do one on New Year's day -- so I'm pretty happy.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">My one word for last year was <i>Live. </i>And that so perfectly sums up 2016. It was the type of year where I have to just sit and think, "Wow. I am so blessed." I haven't always been thankful for it. But God really went above and beyond this year. Every good gift is from Him. And I have to give Him all the praise.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">A lot of thought has gone into my word for 2017. There are so many things I want to focus on. And that's when I knew what my word was. <b>Focus. </b>This year I really want to stop and focus on enjoying the moment. To stop, look around, and count my blessings. Even when I'm feeling overwhelmed, I have an incredible amount of things to be thankful for -- and I want to focus on that. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">So even though there are things that I want to do in 2017, I'm not making an official bucket list or resolutions. I'm going to enjoy my year and the people I'm spending it with. Happy 2017, everyone. Let's make this year great.</span><br />
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Emily<br />
xoxo</div>
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Emilyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02942686989321555815noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1549118541711167740.post-37830456915052400292016-09-13T17:31:00.003-04:002017-09-23T14:47:38.222-04:00Beautiful People // September Edition<div style="text-align: center;">
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After a far-too-long break from writing, I am back at it! Kind of. I'm linking up with Beautiful People this month as I focus on my newest novel, <i>The Scars We Choose.</i> This book has a special place in my heart because 1) I love psychology and 2) this book is from the perspective of a nurse. I've always wanted to write a medical type story since I'm a total medical geek. <i>TSWC</i> is going to be one of the heaviest, most emotional books I've ever written, which makes me nervous <span style="font-size: x-small;">(because I'm normally a happy person, y'all)</span>. To help me with that, I'm going to try writing this story by hand, because that always makes me take my time and put more emotion into my work.</div>
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This month I'm focusing on my kind-of-main character, Alexander (or Alex) Lucas. He was active duty in the marines until he was diagnosed with PTSD. Now he's at Walter Reed Medical Center in Bethesda.</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">1. How did you come up with this character?</span><br />
I've always wanted to write a novel about PTSD and I've always wanted to write about the present day military. So I joined the two ideas together. I just brainstormed about what the most relatable character would be and Alex popped into my head.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">2. Have they ever been starving? Why? And what did they eat to break the fast?</span><br />
While Alex has never been legitimately starving, the closest he came to it was on a mission where he went two days without food. He ate the first edible thing he came across -- instant food packets that you mix with water.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">3. Do they have a talent or skill that they're proud of? </span><br />
Alex can burp the alphabet. He's quite proud of it.<br />
On a more accomplished level, he was the best sniper in his unit.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">4. List 3 things that would make them lose their temper.</span><br />
a) seeing someone disrespect the flag or the military fills Alex with a rage that he didn't know he had<br />
b) bullies -- especially when they prey on the weak ones who can't fight back<br />
c) people who don't fulfill their duties<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">5. What is their favorite type of weather? Least favorite? </span><br />
Alex used to leave the heat, but hates it ever since Iraq because it brings back too many memories. His favorite weather now is when it's numbing cold and snowy.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">6. What is their Hogwarts house and/or MBTI personality?</span><br />
His MBTI personality is ISTJ - Introvert, Sensing, Thinking, Judging. One of the major characteristcs of this type is a strong devotion to duty. They say people with this personality type excel in the military, which is exactly what Alex did.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">7. Are they more likely to worry about present problems, or freak out about the unknown future?</span><br />
Alex can't really think about the future or the present. He's stuck in the past, replaying what happened over and over again. The prospect of any type of future scares Alex, because of what he's seen and done. He doesn't think he'll ever be able to get over the past.<br />
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<a href="http://68.media.tumblr.com/f2536e306b06fbf6ff00a9bfc66c7c49/tumblr_nn44hwAb421tq5rv1o1_1280.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://68.media.tumblr.com/f2536e306b06fbf6ff00a9bfc66c7c49/tumblr_nn44hwAb421tq5rv1o1_1280.png" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="800" height="320" width="320" /></a><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><span style="font-size: large;">8. What is their favorite thing to drink?</span><br />
Ever since high school, Alex makes himself a kale smoothie every morning. He tosses some almond milk, kale, protein powder, celery, and one raw egg into the blender. He claims it's delicious, but no one believes him.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">9. What is their favorite color? Least favorite?</span><br />
Alex absolutely hates yellow. He says it's obnoxiously bright. What he doesn't say is that the color reminds him of his best friend in Iraq, who had a canary yellow shirt. His favorite color is olive green, like the color of an army truck.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">10. What is a book that changed their life?</span><br />
<i>A Grief Observed </i>by C.S. Lewis. Alex's nurse, Ellie, recommended the book to him. She read the book after her brother's death, so Alex decided maybe it would help him. It did. He bought a copy and wore the spine of the book out.<br />
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<i>Anyone else doing Beautiful People? Who is excited for NaNoWriMo?</i><br />
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Emily<br />
xoxo<br />
<br />Emilyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02942686989321555815noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1549118541711167740.post-32056979592466573242016-08-15T20:25:00.002-04:002016-08-15T20:25:13.067-04:00On Being Overwhelmed<br />
It happens. Life keeps marching on and all of a sudden, you are adulting. Fun, yes. And also no. Along with growing up comes stress, bills, college, bills, work, and bills. I'm not complaining. But today as I was sitting through the first day of my nursing program, it hit my how overwhelmed I was. I hate to admit this, but I felt like crying. I suddenly started to wonder if I could do this. Then it hit me:<br />
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I couldn't do it.<br />
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I can't do nursing school. No way. It's too hard.<br />
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At least, it is on my own.<br />
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But then I remembered the last part of John 15:5: <span style="font-size: large;">"... apart from me you can do nothing." </span><br />
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I know I'm not strong enough to do this on my own. And whatever you're going through, whether it be school, or work, or whatever is overwhelming you -- it's okay to admit that you are weak. 2 Corinthians 12:9 says that God's strength is made perfect in our weakness.<br />
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So how do we stop feeling overwhelmed? Give it over to the Lord. That's easier said than done, especially if you're like me, who wants to fix everything myself. Trying to do things myself will just lead to burnout. Here's the cool thing, though. <span style="font-size: large;">"I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." </span><span style="font-size: x-small;">(Philipians 4:13). </span>We have free access to Christ's strength, if we ask for it.<br />
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I wish I could say that I practice what I preach when I'm stressed. But I'm still learning. Something that helps me is listening to songs that remind me of God's power. The most crucial thing I've learned though, is to constantly be in the Word. Reading the Bible and talking with God at the beginning of the day is a must for me. I can tell when I skip, and I'm pretty sure my family would say that they can too. Find verses that will help you when you feel like you can't go on. Some that have helped me are Proverbs 16:3, Matthew 6:33, Isaiah 41:10, and Galations 6:9.<br />
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Don't get discouraged when you feel overwhelmed. It's completely normal. It's good to realize that you can't do something on you're own. That's what keeps us humble and ultimately, what makes us realize that we need a Savior.<br />
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<i>What do you do when you're overwhelmed? I'm open to advice!! </i><br />
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Emily<br />
xoxoEmilyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02942686989321555815noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1549118541711167740.post-57773933320803710322016-07-02T09:30:00.000-04:002016-07-02T09:30:18.732-04:00Beginning of the End // Excerpt<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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xoxo</div>
Emilyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02942686989321555815noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1549118541711167740.post-28751161941023601212016-06-30T17:32:00.003-04:002016-06-30T17:32:29.901-04:00Why Nursing??<br />
Two years ago, I was adamant that I was not going to become a nurse. In fact, I said many times, "I will never be a nurse."<br />
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If you had told me then that I would be in nursing school today -- and loving it -- I would have thought you were a crazy liar.<br />
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And yet here I am.<br />
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Yesterday was orientation for the student nurses starting in the fall. Can I be honest with you? I was a little terrified. The instructors tried to scare us (and did a pretty good job) so we would be aware of how hard nursing is. I sat there wondering if I could really this. Is nursing really what I want?<br />
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Then I thought about what made me decide to do nursing. Why did I leave my perfect job at the daycare for this? Maybe it's because I got excited every time someone asked me a medical question. Or because I was constantly looking up medical procedures <span style="font-size: x-small;">(yes, I know... I'm weird...). </span>Or maybe it's because I was always saying, "I could have so much fun being a nurse!"<br />
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My heart kept feeling a tug to become a nurse. I knew I would enjoy it. But see, there's this little thing called fear. And I payed more attention to fear than to that tug I kept feeling. Until one morning at work, our darling 9 month-old came in late. While we (my coworker and I) talked to her mom, we all noticed a rash on the baby's stomach that soon spread to her back and neck. Then her voice started to get raspy. I checked the baby out and told her mom that she should go to the doctors. Thankfully, the baby turned out to be okay -- it was actually just a bad heat rash -- but I suddenly knew what I wanted to do: I wanted to be a pediatric nurse. Specifically, I wanted to work in the NICU.<br />
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I want to be a nurse because no matter how stressful it is -- no matter how tiring it is -- it is totally worth it to hear someone say, "Thank you." When someone is in the hospital, they're scared and want someone to tell them it's okay. I want to be that person. I enjoy taking care of people and I want to encourage people when they are at their lowest. What better way to show God's love then to serve others?<br />
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All these thoughts ran through my head while I was sitting in orientation. And suddenly, I didn't feel as overwhelmed. Nursing is what I want and I will not let myself forget that.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Why Nursing? This is why: " src="https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/564x/65/b1/ec/65b1ece82a54384ca34fef2b6d3bf26d.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.pinterest.com/emapaige/nursing-school/" target="_blank">{via}</a></td></tr>
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Emily<br />
xoxoEmilyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02942686989321555815noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1549118541711167740.post-54956108374754746052016-06-27T13:19:00.000-04:002016-06-27T13:19:25.474-04:00A Novel Idea Link-Up // 6-21<br />
Hello blogglings! After a much-needed, unplanned break, I am back! Between summer classes, working, getting things in order for my nursing classes in the fall, and a trip to the beach <span style="font-size: x-small;">(which was wonderful) </span>my summer has been busy to say the least. I did make time to sit down and write at the beach, though -- something about salty-air breezes gets your creative juices going. I felt like writing a novel in one sitting. Then the power went out. Oh well. I'm back at it now, and ready to write.<br />
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<a href="http://www.furtherupfurtherin.net/"><img src="http://i1137.photobucket.com/albums/n506/MountainFireflower/Personal%20Files/Blog/a%20novel%20idea_zpst7dvpftu.png" /></a><br />
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This week, I'm linking up with Sky and Ashley's A Novel Idea. The prompt is to write a back-cover blurb for your novel. Writing cover blurbs are one of my favorite things to do, because it helps me sort out the key points in my novel. It's also a little terrifying -- a synopsis can make or break your story. I know how much I rely on back-cover blurbs when I'm buying a book, so I want mine to be just right. That's probably why I have a million synopsis ideas scattered all around. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAxRGqQOqFZhD1xXfW8DerQGbvdnyPp4OJV9aGGtgISxgJ9jRYmfsVmNTmy31lPjbzeNaFja_pbOubfkrgd09trwRnfhyphenhyphenXjh0wUUHuHUeQiYY6BwKkE40P_ZuMdOwhvL-aitri0XTIVls/s1600/Out+of+the+Ashes+-+cover.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAxRGqQOqFZhD1xXfW8DerQGbvdnyPp4OJV9aGGtgISxgJ9jRYmfsVmNTmy31lPjbzeNaFja_pbOubfkrgd09trwRnfhyphenhyphenXjh0wUUHuHUeQiYY6BwKkE40P_ZuMdOwhvL-aitri0XTIVls/s400/Out+of+the+Ashes+-+cover.jpg" width="266" /></a><br />
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After discovering the traitor, everything changed. Then the bombs fell. And life came crashing to the ground. Brynn believes that the spy -- once her friend -- is behind the destruction of their home. She disobeys orders and sneaks away to kill the traitor, though she can't shake the suspicion that he might be innocent. Brynn decides to ignore her feelings and go through with her plans -- until the traitor contacts her first. </div>
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<i>Have you linked up? If not, I'd still love to read your back-cover blurb!</i></div>
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Emily</div>
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xoxo</div>
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Emilyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02942686989321555815noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1549118541711167740.post-1981917694893187152016-04-29T11:36:00.000-04:002016-04-29T11:36:25.592-04:00Thankful<br />
And so finishes another semester of school. Next week is finals (cue tears and craving comfort foods), then I get a week break before summer classes. If all goes well, I'll be graduating next July. It's still not completely sinking in.<br />
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This year has been amazing. By the last week of January I had a major answer to prayer that caught me off guard (but in an amazing way), I turned 20, threw an adoption shower for my aunt, and voted for the first time. It might not seem like a lot to you, but in the first four months of this year, I feel like I've <i>lived</i> a lot -- which is super exciting since <b>Live</b> is my one word for 2016.<br />
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I guess if I had to use one one to describe how I'm feeling, it would be <i>thankful</i>. God has sent so many blessings my way and it's a little overwhelming. I can't even begin to count my blessings. But I can try.<br />
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I'm thankful for....</div>
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<i>friends who really care</i></div>
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<i>my college and career sunday school class</i></div>
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<i>warm weather</i></div>
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<i>a boyfriend who encourages me </i></div>
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<i>pictures drawn for me by the adorable little munchkins I babysit</i></div>
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<i>passing my latest lab exam with an A</i></div>
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<i>woods to take a walk in</i></div>
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<i>the freedom to vote</i></div>
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<i>ways to keep in touch with friends that I haven't seen in forever</i></div>
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<i>gift cards to my favorite store so I can get new clothes</i></div>
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<i>new books </i><span style="font-size: x-small;">(oh the smell of new books!!)</span></div>
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<i>conquering my voice recital without forgetting words or tripping</i></div>
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<i>not breaking my face when I ran into the door yesterday in front of my whole A&P class </i><span style="font-size: x-small;">(let's not talk about it)</span></div>
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<i>my brother and sister </i><span style="font-size: x-small;">(they're hilarious, in a good way)</span></div>
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<i>parents who understand that I'm stressed about finals</i></div>
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<i>my amazing church family</i></div>
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<i>the 2nd season of </i>Fixer Upper<i> on netflix</i></div>
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<i>answered prayer</i></div>
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<i>getting to meet my new cousin soon!</i></div>
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<i>What are you thankful for?</i></div>
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Emily</div>
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xoxo</div>
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Emilyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02942686989321555815noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1549118541711167740.post-84271966388240984342016-04-12T19:46:00.000-04:002016-04-12T19:46:11.006-04:00Two Decades // April Playlist<br />
It has been one whole week since I turned twenty. I'm two decades old. It's a little hard to believe. When I was a little kid, twenty seemed so old. I never really pictured myself being this age. One thing I've learned in this life (although it seems like the more I learn, the less I know) is how amazing God's grace is. I fail everyday, yet Jesus still died for me. That's mind boggling. I have so much to be thankful for and I don't deserve any of it.<br />
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My April playlist is a bunch of songs that mean something to me. All of these songs were kept on repeat at different times of my life (go ahead and judge me). <i>Can You Feel the Love Tonight</i> was my favorite song EVER when I was little. Kindergarten and first grade was the Backstreet Boys phase (I was in love with Nick Carter) and fifteen year-old was the One Direction phase (apparently I had a thing for boybands. sorry, not sorry). This playlist is on a constant loop for me as we speak. Oh, nostalgia!<br />
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<i>Dear ten year-old me,</i></div>
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<i>If I could tell you one thing to prepare me for the next ten years of my life, I would say that God knows exactly what He is doing. Sometimes things don't work out. But oh, sometimes they do and it's oh so wonderful when things do work out. The next thing you need to do: start exercising right now. Don't wait till after high school -- you'll regret it big time. Oh and please be careful on your bike and climbing trees. That doesn't end well. Enjoy every single minute with your best friends, they won't be around forever. When you make no-bake cookies, FOLLOW THE DIRECTIONS PERFECTLY (it might take you a few years to figure that out, but you'll get it eventually). Start taking voice and piano lessons as soon as you can and don't forget to practice everyday. Oh and writing a novel is hard work -- you're first draft will be absolutely horrible and you won't ever want anyone to read it, BUT writing gets better the more you do it. Oh and pay more attention in Anatomy and Physiology when you get to high school (you're going to go to college for nursing, in case you're wondering). Twenty is an amazing age to be. 2016 is an awesome year as of April -- you have the best people ever in your life and you will be so happy to see where you are. Trust me.</i></div>
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<i>Love, twenty year-old me </i></div>
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<i>Yes, driving is just as fun as you thought it would be. </i></div>
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Emily</div>
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xoxo</div>
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Emilyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02942686989321555815noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1549118541711167740.post-24221474054329713992016-03-24T18:05:00.001-04:002016-03-24T18:05:57.151-04:00Life as of Late // March Playlist<br />
Spring is finally here out in the country and I'm totally ready. 2016 has already been an amazing year and I can't wait to see what the rest of the year has in store. Lately I've been....<br />
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<b>Studying</b> like crazy for Anatomy and Physiology and getting things around for summer classes. This semester is flying by -- how is it going to be over in just a month and a few weeks??<br />
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<b>Preparing </b>for my voice recital. The song I'm singing is <i><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jkiyxvaQQOc" target="_blank">I Enjoy Being a Girl</a></i>, which I absolutely love to sing, but it's kind of a flirty song and I... am not the most flirty person. It's definitely going to be a step outside my comfort zone, but hey -- if I don't go outside my comfort zone, it won't get bigger.<br />
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<b>Excited </b>for baseball season to start. My brother is playing for the high school team again after taking a year off. I cannot begin to describe how much I've missed watching him play. And let me tell you, he is a.mazing. No, I'm not saying that just because he's my brother -- he really is good. Just trust me.<br />
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<b>Listening </b>to <i>Les Mis</i>. Because why not? Anytime is a good time to listen to it. Oh and feast your eyes on this video.<br />
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This will totally be my kids.</div>
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<b><strike>Finishing </strike>Finished </b>my new favorite tv show, <i>Lost</i>. Let's just say.... I haven't cried over a show like that in a while. But you need to watch. Really.</div>
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<b>Reading</b> <i>The Importance of Being Earnest</i> by Oscar Wilde. This play is hilarious, people. Seriously, I laughed out loud multiple times. And if you've never seen the movie, I highly recommend it -- definitely one of my favorites!<br />
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<b>Trying</b> to get back in the habit of working out. Ehh it's getting there.<br />
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<b>Suffering</b> from allergies. As wonderful as springtime is, pollen is my enemy. What would I ever do without Claritin-D?<br />
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Anndd, the playlist for this month. Yes, most of these are <i>Les Mis</i> songs. No, I am not sorry.<br />
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<i>What have you been up to lately?</i></div>
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Emily</div>
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xoxo</div>
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Emilyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02942686989321555815noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1549118541711167740.post-61462963617900541602016-03-07T13:13:00.000-05:002016-03-07T13:13:34.009-05:00The Scars We Choose<br />
One of the many ideas on my To-Write list was a novel about a PTSD patient. Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) has always fascinated me, but I didn't study it too much until psychology class last semester. If you'r'e unfamiliar with PTSD, it used to be known as shell-shock and was linked to soldiers in combat. It develops after a traumatic experience and is characterized by flashbacks, nightmares and continuous fear. We know now that anyone can get PTSD: car accident survivors, abuse victims, and nurses. You could even develop PTSD from watching something traumatic, like coverage of a natural disaster on TV.<br />
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I was disappointed when we only skimmed over PTSD in psychology. I started to research like a madman <span style="font-size: x-small;">(I'm good at that) </span>and discovered that there isn't much awareness for PTSD. Sure, there are some movies and TV shows where a character might have the disease. But the stories don't even begin to touch on what PTSD really is.<br />
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I decided that I wanted to write this novel more than ever. Characters and the beginning of a plot began to take shape. As I continue my research, it's amazing to see how much PTSD affects not only the patient, but everyone around them. There seems to be an idea that people with PTSD are dangerous -- and they can be -- but that isn't always the cause. I want that to come through in my novel.<br />
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And so was born <i>The Scars We Choose.</i> A nurse with a lot of baggage tells the story of Alex, a soldier with PTSD. The nurse, Ellie, dreads having to work with a PTSD patient, but the two end up bonding over their love of classic books <span style="font-size: x-small;">(even though he hates her favorite book and she hates his)</span>, the Beatles, and their love of creating artsy things <span style="font-size: x-small;">(he writes, she draws)</span>. Both of their worlds are falling apart in some way, so they take comfort in knowing that they're broken together.<br />
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I love both of these characters so much. Ellie deals with anxiety because of an accident with her older brother, and Alex acts tough and unapproachable, but he's really just a ginormous teddy bear. Since this novel is about PTSD and depression, it will have more of a dark undertone, which is something I'm nervous about. But my goal is to leave readers feeling hopeful not only about PTSD, but also about other mental health issues.<br />
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<i>What are your latest writing projects? Have you ever written a novel about mental health? Do you have any tips?</i><br />
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Emily<br />
xoxo</div>
Emilyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02942686989321555815noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1549118541711167740.post-76795649372358905192016-02-11T21:39:00.000-05:002016-02-11T21:39:06.586-05:00February Playlist // Valentine's Day<div style="text-align: center;">
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Well, well, well. February just kind of snuck up on us, didn't it? And do you know what makes February so popular <span style="font-size: x-small;">(hint: it's not Abe Lincoln's birthday)</span>? <i>Valentine's Day.</i> So of course, I had to make a playlist full of lovey-dovey songs because I'm sappy like that. Enjoy :)</div>
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<i>What are some of your favorite sappy love songs? Any fun Valentine's plans?</i><br />
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Emily</div>
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xoxo</div>
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Emilyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02942686989321555815noreply@blogger.com2