Keep the Change


After such an intense and inspiring summer, I have been thinking a lot about change and what my goals are for the next few months, and year, even. Leading up to this summer I was anticipating a new season of life, and now that we're almost through, it's arrival is ever closer. (If it seems like I'm speaking in code, my apologies, I'm only still thinking through all of this myself, so it's a bit of a stream of consciousness) I'm expecting great changes in my life, in the positive sense, as I am always in the process of discovering and refining the person that I am and aspire to be, and it's only natural in that process to experience lots of change.

When I first began thinking on this subject about a year ago, my reaction was that of resistance..I was comfortable, happy, and didn't want to change; however, as life has continued, and I have grown, it's become obvious to me that the only way to truly get where you want is to challenge yourself to change and grow in new ways, to be open to different experiences, and to live fearlessly (a few more of my thoughts on living fearlessly).

So if we realize that change is essential to becoming the person we want to be, how do we begin? There's a lot of different thoughts on this subject, but a few of the things I've found beneficial in the process are as follows:

1. Continue to learn and expand your mind
If you're not continually learning, you only know what you know...but how much more is your world expanded if you consider yourself a student of life; learning whenever and wherever you are. I've found this to be so true, especially when you're no longer attending classes, and your learning now takes on a different format. Be aware of people, experiences and opportunities to learn something from, and read, read, read..I cannot stress this enough to you, except to say this cliche phrase "readers are leaders" but seriously, look at all of the successful people of the world and you'll see that they are continually learning, reading and expanding their world; this will be a key to great growth and positive change in your life!

2. Set goals of who & where you want to be.
How do you get somewhere if you don't know where that place is? Setting goals has become one of the most important habits I've set for myself. What helps is to think in terms of measurable, achievable and exciting changes & accomplishments. Maybe your goal is to finish a degree in a certain amount of time, travel to a new place, become better in an area of your life, read more..etc. Whatever those goals are, be sure to write them out and set them in a place where you can read them on a daily basis...the process of repeating them to yourself daily puts those thoughts into your mind where your subconscious can begin to work on them, and sooner or later you'll find yourself in the process of, and actually achieving them! Talk about some good change! :)

3. Be patient & consistent.
Ooh, this is a hard one for me, as I would love to just write out what changes need to be made, and BAM, it's all done! Unfortunately, this isn't the case, and changes take time, so allow yourself to grow, experience the process (however long that is), and to make mistakes. We often measure ourselves against a standard of perfection, but forget that we should instead use a standard of grace...you're human after all! With that said, do your best to be consistent..this is key to both achieving goals and changing. When you set a goal, be diligent in making the necessary adjustments & habit patterns to achieve it, and if you do mess up, get back up and try again..don't allow failure to keep you from a full & abundant life! Be patient with you, and consistent in your actions and you'll achieve much.

Here's a few thoughts to end this with:

-Examine your life & determine areas where you can grow & change to become a better version of you!
-Write out 5-10 goals and set them in a place where you can read them daily.
-Be willing to challenge yourself & get out of your comfort zone!

What changes do you need to make? 
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My Favorites


I'm back from an incredible summer full of memories, learning experiences and time with some of the best friends anyone could ask for! Many summers have been awesome, but this one seemed to surpass those by quite a lot. I couldn't have asked for a better team of leaders to be a part of, and to work alongside as we shared and taught kids from all over the world how to live a life that is dynamic, leadership-driven and fun! God truly blessed my life with this team and experience, and while it went by faster than imagined, there's still more adventures to be had, and now it's time to repack the suitcase for a little bit of a relaxing change of pace...beach & pool time, anyone? 

Hope you've been having a fantastic summer also; have you done anything awesome?
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All You Need Is Love..


I'm so happy to have Emily here to share with you today; she's been such a lovely person to get to know through the blog world, and she's always got the sweetest smile and a happy outlook on life! I know you'll love her as much as I do! Enjoy!
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Hi lovelies!  It's Emily, here, from All You Need is Love!
I'm so excited and honored to be guest-posting on Candice's wonderful blog.  

Today I'm going to share a recent trip that my darling husband and I went on -- it was very special in a few different ways and I'll get to those specific ways as the post continues....

This vacation was booked in celebration of our 5th (!!) wedding anniversary, and we jet-setted off to the amazing and spectacular Esperanza Resort in Cabo San Lucas


The view from our villa!

Because of our hectic and long work schedules over the past few months, we ESPECIALLY enjoyed all of the relaxing, lounging, and just soaking in the BEAUTY of the resort.

The gorgeous ocean, the majestic cliffs and the beautiful sunrises and sunsets were truly spectacular, and a wonderful reminder of God's perfect hand in creation, and His perspective of beauty.   Every day waking up here was so special in that way - and I strive to see and NOTICE beauty more in other ways, in my every-day life. 

Another way this trip was so special - was just getting to spend time with my husband and best friend.  It's so easy to get caught up in every day life, not appreciating those you care about, and almost taking wonderful relationships for granted.  But we truly had the best time celebrating our love, our marriage, and our appreciation for each other.  It was so refreshing and wonderful to just BE together.  


And the most special part of the trip was.....


Yep!  We got to celebrate our baby-to-be!!
Our 5 year anniversary trip, turned out to be a little "babymoon" instead!  


We are so excited to be welcoming our precious baby this Christmas Eve!  

And that was one trip we will never forget!  Thanks for reading along, and please stop by my blog to see more of our every-day life.  It's full of food, fashion, family, and fun!  :)
And thanks for having me, sweet Candice!


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Catch up with Emily via:

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Just A Refresher


With the heat of summer fully upon us now, I am always looking for ways to stay cool. I have collected a few of  my favorites as of late for you to enjoy as well!

Beet Orange Juice
I love juicing fruits and vegetables as a way to get more of my vitamins and nutrients, and when I came across the suggestion from a friend of doing beets with oranges I was determined to try it out! Beets have a very unique flavor and a lot of nutritious value. Their rich ruby color is just beautiful when juiced (pictured above)!
Recipe:
1/2 or 1 full beet
2 oranges

Save one section of orange for garnish and to enjoy! {YUM!!}
Juice fruits and vegetables and drink with a cute straw :) 
Here's to a nutritious boost for your orange juice!



Smoothies
Smoothies are always a delicious choice especially in this warm summer weather. There are so many recipes out there. I love to try out many different ones from green smoothies to berry flavors and tropical pina coladas! So research some recipes and go for it!!
Here is a quick and easy berry smoothie that I've had on repeat! It is so refreshing; it's almost like a berry sorbet!

Recipe:
1 Cup of frozen mixed berries
1 Banana
1/2-3/4 cup of orange juice or almond milk 
(depending on if you want a fruity splash or more of a berry flavor)

Blend and enjoy!
Optional: Add protein powder for and extra nutritious benefits

Iced Tea

After tasting some delicious mint iced tea at a backyard party I was convinced that this was something I must make at home! It is easy as can be and soo refreshing and delicious! 
I make it with an iced tea maker, but you can easily do if for just one glass with your microwave. I used Bigelow Mint Medley  tea with some Stevia for sweetner.
Make your tea and pour over ice!
I am also wanting to try mango iced tea with an orange for garnish! I enjoyed it at a restaurant and it is so tasty! You'll have to try it!

And one last tasty favorite!
Orange Sparkling Water and Fruit Ice Cubes

I had this with dinner at a friends house one evening and loved it. If you are in the mood for something bubbly, this La Croix sparkling water will hit the spot with a subtle hint of orange. I think it would be rather tasty with some frozen fruit ice cubes too!

Cheers to keeping cool, hydrated, and refreshed this summer!



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Wordless Wednesday

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Party Like It's Your Birthday

Yay! Today is my birthday! Since I'm currently in the middle of an adventure, I'm planning on actually celebrating when I am home again. Birthdays are always fun, whether it's mine or someone else's; it's a chance to celebrate the person and the wonderful life they have lived up to this point... I also enjoy hosting celebrations which may have something to do with it too :) 
Anyway, it's going to be a wonderful day, and I'm looking forward to another fantastic year ahead!
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How To Wear: Summer Denim

I wore an outfit like this the other day, and it perfectly pulls together the classic style and the trends of summer. When I purchased my printed denim shirt (mine has a faint paisley pattern) I wanted to make sure that I didn't have too much of a rodeo feel when I wore it, so instead I went for a more classic and preppy look. Pairing it with a closet staple, navy shorts, and accenting it with a colorful statement necklace seemed to be the perfect option. Tucking it in with a gold belt (a favorite as of late!) adds a nice, clean finishing touch along with a little extra sparkle on the sandals and jewel stud earrings. I finished off the outfit with another favorite, my envelope clutch with zipper edging in cobalt blue. Hope this inspires you to create some fun summer outfits! This look can also be created with a regular chambray shirt or even a fun button down! 

How do you style your denim & chambray?
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Wordless Wednesday













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Simple Summer Style

When it comes to all things lovely, be it style or interior design, I always look to Michaela & her blog for inspiration! Not only is she beautiful, her talent for creating and styling is also very impressive! I'm so thrilled to have her sharing with all of you today; be sure to check out her blog & say hello! 
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Hi Teatime Thoughts readers! I'm Michaela and I'm thrilled to be here today sharing a few of my favorite looks with you. When Candice asked me to share a bit of my style with you, I was excited! I'm an interior designer and stylist, but also love to put cute outfits together. What girl doesn't?! :)

My go-to outfit is always a dress.  They are easy, comfortable, fun and instantly girly.  Throw a sweater over your favorite dress and the outfit is perfect come Fall. Colored and patterned denim, as well as simple skirts and blouses are always a fun way to switch it up. Today I pulled a few of my favorite outfits as of lately!

outfit details 
 outfit details



If you want to learn how to do this waterfall braid, you can get the full tutorial here!

Thanks for having me today, my friend! Happy day!
xoxo
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