Tuesday Tunes with Anthem Lights - I'm on Time!

   Hello there! Welcome back to Tuesday Tunes. (I'm trying a new opening...Not sure if I'm feeling it) Today's song is by a band that I really like, but that I always forget about, Anthem Lights! They have great harmony, and a variety of distinct voices. This is their Hymns Mashup (Pt. II) I enjoyed the hymns that they chose, and their background is really pretty. Special thanks to my friend who helped me find a song to feature! I hope you enjoy this. ~Promise

How Making Pillows Reminded Me of God

     Seven days from now, it will be Christmas, and if you celebrate this "day of days", you know that people traditionally give gifts on that day.  Well, I like to give people presents, and I absolutely love making things.  Since I have quite a crowd headed to my house this year, I decided to look for something small and relatively simple that I could make rather quickly and tailor to suit several peoples' tastes.
     Long story short, I was talking with my aunt about what she wanted for her birthday, and she said she wanted a quilted pillow.  Aaaandddd after making one of those, I was hooked.  So everyone is getting a quilted pillow from me this year.  :)

    Now you're probably wondering what this has to do with God's handiwork.  My message today (or tonight, since it's almost midnight right now) is one that you hear day after day after day, if not from friends but from your own mind reminding you of its truthfulness.

     I struggle a lot with insecurities.  I think we all do at one point or another.  I bet you, reading this right now, can think of at least one thing you don't like about yourself.  Maybe you wish you looked better or had a girlfriend or didn't laugh so obnoxiously.  Maybe you're like me and are insecure about a lot of things...afraid that you're too loud or too quiet or too clingy, or that you're just not good enough.

    But today I was standing there in our basement (which doubles as a sewing room) and I was examining a quilted pillow top that I had made.  I had drawn from the person's tastes when selecting the fabric -- or as I like to look at it, paint; combining his favorite colors and something he is passionate about into one 13" square of fabric.
   And as I looked at it, I was proud of it...and the Spirit seemed to whisper to my soul that this was how it was when He created...me.

    That He worked hard and long on me, laboring over me so I was *just* perfect.  And when He was done, He looked at me...and He was proud of me.

    And then I asked myself, "How would I feel if someone came along and said, 'That's the ugliest pillow I've ever seen!'?"  (We do this to ourselves, but I just can't imagine a pillow cover looking in the mirror and pointing out its flaws).  Perhaps the person would question my stitching or the size or the seam allowance or how it was ironed.  The fact that my hand-quilted stitches are always far too big.  The fact that my seams often don't match.  The fact that I can't sew in a straight line.  If someone came along and pointed all these things out, it would hurt...a lot.

    This is how He feels about me -- but to such an extent that I cannot fully comprehend it.

    Another thing I noticed today was that one of my pillows had an imperfection that I simply could not let pass.  And so I got my mom's seam ripper and started ripping out stitches....five rows worth.
    I guess you can say that's how it feels sometimes when He is refining us -- making us better.  He is ripping out the bad things to put in the good.


    And when I had finally finished a pillow, I turned it outside in (if you've never sewn, you sew everything face-side-together so your stitches are on the inside) and stuffed the pillow in.  Then I saw a part where the stitches hadn't caught the top of the pillow cover all the way, and I needed to resew it.  So I put it back on the machine and sewed a wider seam.  It made me think about two things: again, the refining process, and the way He teaches us...when we are dense He sometimes chooses to take *drastic measures*.

    I never thought making pillows for people for Christmas would have anything to do with God, but it did.  Just goes to show that Spiritual analogies can be found anywhere you choose to look.  :)

   

Dear Anxiety.

 

   Dear Anxiety, look, I know we've been together for a couple years now, and you're invested in this relationship, but I think we need to talk. See, I don't think this is working out. Whenever you get upset about something, I try to talk to you and calm you down, but you're stubborn and hard to talk to. You make a big deal over my mistakes, you make me second guess myself, and you never let me be at peace. You'll be gone for weeks, then suddenly, you're back without warning. How can I be with you when you're only around to remind me of my fear? Frankly, you make me feel sick. When you're around, it makes my stomach feel upset. Sometimes it feels hard to breathe or do the easiest task when you're looking over my shoulder. Also, I don't like your friend, Depression. He's so entitled! He acts like he owns my whole outlook in life. He makes everything seem gloomy and worthless. He makes me believe that you're going to be my steady companion in life, and that I shouldn't fight it, because you're the only one that cares enough to tell me about my mistakes and failures. Well, I have two words for you and your buddy. Get. Out. You're not welcomed here anymore. You've overstepped your bounds, and caused me many a day filled with sadness. See, I've found someone. He's kind, he forgives, he's compassionate, and he loves me. He said he'd give his life for me, and he did! He's not going to abuse me like you did, or drag me down like you and Depression. So, pack your bags and leave. We're through. Now that I've found what love feels like, I can't go back into your arms.

   Oh, and Anxiety? My new man's a king.

~Promise

Tuesday Tunes with the Piano Guys

Heyyyyy everyone! Today we're featuring a Christmas song from the Piano Guys! These guys are amazing. The piano is uplifting and sweet and the vocals are joyful. I've looked up to Jon Schmidt (the pianist) for a while now, especially because I'm a pianist. This year Jon Schmidt's family suffer a great lost. Annie, Jon's daughter went missing out on a hike, and was later found dead. If you think about it, maybe say a prayer for the Schmidt family, it's going to be a hard Christmas for them. In spite of tragedy, their music continues to bring hope and happiness to it's listeners. Thank you Piano Guys. God bless, and Merry Christmas! ~Promise

17 Things I Learned this Year

Hey everyone! So...If you haven't noticed, today's my birthday. I turned 17! Man I feel old....... Anyway, I thought that I'd share 17 things that I learned while I was 16. 

1. God is good! He's forgiving, loving, and strong, when you can't be. He's amazing, and I only hope that I can get closer to him this year.

2.  I have some pretty amazing friends. I may be biased, but I'm dead sure that I'm friends with some of the best people in the world.

3. Don't ever give up on school. Frankly, I don't enjoy school, but I'm coming to realize how important it is to push through and keep trying. 

4. Relient K will just keep getting better. At first, I listened to a couple songs from Relient K's newest CD, Air for Free, and I thought 'Meh. I like their old stuff better.' Well, now I have new found love and respect for the current Relient K. Keep it up Matt and Matt!

5. The new(ish) live action/CGI Jungle Book is actually pretty good. It wasn't exactly the same, and that's okay! It's a new take on an old classic that I grew up with.

6. Anxiety can be controlled. It takes a lot of hard work and prayer, but with God, nothing is impossibly. It reminds me of my favorite verse, 2 Corinthians 12: 9-10.

7. I could actually make a cd of my music! It blows my mind that I could record my music and that people would want to listen to it. Woooooooooaaaaaaahhhhhhhhhh.....

8. Blimey Cow is genius. They have some pretty good points, sarcasm, and humor. If you haven't checked them out, please do. 

9. Peanut butter really isn't so bad. 

10. Le Miz isn't really that bad. (but marius is)hahahah...don't kill me gracie...

11. The world won't implode if you don't have a significant other. As Jordan Taylor said, If you aren't happy alone, then being in a relationship won't fix that. 

12. The future isn't as scary as it seems. The future will still have God, and he's all I'll ever need. God's got his plan, y'all. Just relax and it let go. (LET IT GOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOoooooo no? okay then...) 

13. Disney's probably using mind control because the music IS TOO CATCHY. 

14. My family ROCKS. Yes, we can get on eachother's nerves, but we all need each other, and I love them a lot.

15. You are allowed to say how you feel. Yes, I'm an INFJ and I don't really like to talk about my problems or feelings, but it's unhealthy to keep everything inside forever. 

16. Extroverts aren't as scary as I thought. They might be loud sometimes, and overwhelm you, but they're still human. I've found that I'm kind of liking being around louder people because I get to talk less and listen to them. (haha) All joking aside, Extroverts can be wonderful leaders and speak up for us poor introverts. They're awesome. We need a diversity of people in this world. I'm going to go hug my extroverted Dad now...

17.  This blog is a God-send. It gives me a way do something meaningful, even if it's just a makeup tutorial. I really enjoy blogging, and I enjoy it even more when I look at the stats and realize that over 300 people in Russia have looked at our blog. People in America, Russia, China, France and the United Kingdoms and many more have peeked into our lives. That's pretty cool. 

Thanks for reading! God bless.

~Promise

I Don't Know What to Title This...

     Life has been absolutely crazy the past few weeks.  It's been upside down and all over the place.

     But through it all, I have had three friends who have stood by my side no matter what.  They have listened to me complain, rejoice, and everything in between.  One of them is someone Promise calls ENTJ (only I call him INTJ because he says he is an introvert).  One of them is the best Friend anyone could ever have...God.  He is ever so wonderful, and I cannot describe the ways I have grown close to Him in the past few months.

     The other one...is Promise.

     Promise, for ten years you have stood by my side through thick and thin.  For ten years you have done nothing but been incredible.  You are strong, capable, darned funny, and awesome.

     I was shy when I was six years old, going to a new place I had never been before.  I remember walking into my classroom at our girls' group, and Promise literally bounced up to me and introduced herself.

     Funny that we've essentially changed places since then.  Now I'm the bouncy one, and Promise is a definite introvert.  But this much will never change: I would not trade our friendship for anything.

     Promise, you've been through storms, and you came out stronger.
     You've taken me in as your little sister for years and years, and no matter what my trial, no matter what my hurt, you've sought a way to fix it.

     And let's be honest, I still laugh about the time you accidentally burned yourself while lighting a candle in front of all of your best friends, as we sat for a fancy dinner party.  And the time you were putting on blue lip gloss, and your mom asked, "What does it taste like?" (it was, obviously, supposed to taste like blueberries).  "Blue," you said.  And let's not forget the time you forgot you were allergic to hay and went on a hayride.  Later that night you were lying on our cabin floor with a Kleenex over your face and planning your funeral.

     Ahhhh, and how you always manage to get mascara on Kathryn's nose...

     I love you, my dear, dear friend.  Can you believe it's been ten years?!

     Happy birthday!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!  We're so old now.  ;)

     Never forget... "Letter to letter, we stick together!"

     (P.S. Count the number of exclamation points after "Happy birthday"... :P This is going to be fun when we're 94...)

     Love,
     Grace

Tuesday Tunes with Steven Curtis Chapman

Hey everyone! Grace and I are in a Christmas mood! Today I'm suggesting three songs from Steven Curtis Chapman's CD, 'The Music of Christmas.'

1. This Baby. I love the beginning of this song, the choir is so beautiful, then the music lightens up into a sweet telling of baby Jesus.

2. Going Home for Christmas. Grab your tissues. You'll need 'em. This song is so bittersweet. Joyful and heartbreaking, just like the birth of our Lord. This song makes me remember the people that I wish I could still spend Christmas with.

3. Angels We Have Heard on High. This is one of those Christmas songs that always pops into your head. It reminds me of the joy that encompassed the angels and shepherds. It's lively version of a much loved song.

Enjoy! ~Promise

Well, I Failed Again. ~Promise

   I AM SO SORRY! Yes, I forgot Tuesday Tunes again. I'll make it up to you by doing a large music post. Let's go.

   Today my 'Wednesday Tuesday Tunes' will focus on 5 of my favorite Tobymac songs, and there's even a few Grace might bring herself to enjoy.


1. Hold On this is an adorable song about Tobymac's wife. It's so encouraging and light hearted.

2. Changed Forever I love the lyrics in this song. I really don't see anything about this song anywhere and I think It's great. Also Nirva Ready's vocals, amiright?

3. Captured, remixed  'I'm your prisoner by choice I will rest at your feet, and I'll only lift my voice when you want me to sing...' Wow....The words are just beautiful. It's so deep and devoted. Love it.

4. Irene First off, I love the name Irene, and her story is sad and beautiful and hopeful and painful. I actually like the Latin flare of this song.

5. Get Back up Again This is such a positive song! When you're feeling down, this song is great to cheer you up. We've all fallen short, but God tells us to get back up again and keep trying.

   Enjoy! ~Promise

Promise's 10 Favorite Things about Fall

   Good morning, all! Welcome back to our tiny part of the Internet. Yes, I am aware that Fall started awhile back, but it hasn't felt like fall because it's been so warm! Now that it's finally cool, almost chilly outside, I'm making this list to celebrate!

1. My Mom's chili. I always look forward to cool weather, because cool weather means chili! Our whole family gobbles up chili during the Fall and Winter.

2. Scarves, boots, coats, and sweaters. I love Fall fashion. It's the season where I get to wear something other than shorts and graphic tees. My Dad's from Michigan, so he likes cool weather too. He and I get warm very easily, so no long sleeves until Fall. I love boots and bright, patterned scarves. They can make a basic outfit classy easily.

3. Hot drinks. As a type 1 diabetic I can't really drink sugary drinks because they spike your blood sugar too fast, but I do have  a few drinks that I can still enjoy. Trim Healthy Mama has a cranberry wassail that i love, and it's sweetened with stevia. I love hot cocoa and coffee, and even more together. Tea is my other favorite drink. I have this french vanilla tea that's awesome, and I really like roobious (I'm guessing that's how you spell that...) and spearmint tea too.

4.  This video by Adler Davidson. :)

5. Corn mazes. I love the thrill of getting completely lost, and finding your way out. It's like a giant puzzle, and super fun.

6. Thanksgiving. This is one of the only times I enjoy turkey. Honestly, my favorite thing is oyster stuffing. I love seafood, and this is one of the only times I get it. Thanksgiving is also a more positive time for me. I'm a pretty negative person, but it seems like around this time, people are a least a little kinder and more positive, and it rubs off on me.

7. Candy corn and those pumpkin thingies. Yes, I actually like these candies. Right now I'm avoiding sugar, but I'm probably going to splurge and eat a couple of these.

8. PEANUTS. No, not the food, the comic strip/ cartoons! My sibling and I are huge fans. I love the Peanuts Thanksgiving movie that airs on TV.

9. Being off from school-oh wait no I'm a homeschooler we don't do breaks...

10. Friends and Family. People are very important to me. I love doing things and getting together for things in the fall. It's a beautiful season to be close to people you love.


   Hope you guys enjoyed! What are some of your favorite things about fall? Comment below. See you guys tomorrow for Tuesday Tunes! (Yes, I know I missed it last week.)
~Promise

A Post for the Sake of a Post ~Promise

   Hey everyone. A friend pointed out that I haven't posted anything but Tuesday Tunes for quite a while, so today I'll try to fix that. :)

   I've had a lot of thoughts running through my mind lately. One being just how hard the teenage years are. You're basically lost, terrified, and depressed. You're surrounded by school and the pressure regarding grades, scholarships, college and tests. I know some people who enjoyed school, (namely my Mom) but I don't. It's all stress for me, especially math.
   Next, relationships. You wonder if you're ever getting married or if anyone will ever love you. Friendships are a blessing and a curse at this age too because you're all stuck in the same lot. It's a curse because you're all confused. It's a blessing because you at least have people that understand.
   There are a lot of temptations in the teenage years too. We have an over sexualized media in this day and age. It's never been easier to give in to temptation and fall into addiction. I know how hard it is. The good news is that you're not alone. It's common problem. Jesus offers forgiveness and grace. You might have made mistakes, but God won't hold you to them. You aren't a disgusting person if you've fallen into sin. You are an incredibly loved individual that has a wonderful future ahead.
   Life might be hard right now, but things will always get better. God will walk with you.
  

   Well...This turned into a strange post. I'll see you guys tomorrow. God bless! ~Promise

Tuesday Tunes with Becca Shae

Hey everybody, and welcome to Tuesday Tunes. Today we're doing a song by someone you probably don't know. I've liked Becca Shae for a while. She has an interesting style of music and some great lyrics. 'Surrender,' the song we're featuring today, might be my favorite. It's a creative take on a classic hymn and I love the piano. Enjoy! ~Promise

Tuesday Tunes with Unspoken

I'm tired. Sorry! Watch and be happy. Maybe post your thoughts on the song in the comments. ~Prommie

When God Ran

https://youtu.be/4nTNhIE2GyM

I first heard this song at a youth retreat yesterday morning.  I listened to it several times when I woke up in the middle of the night.  It's amazing.  GO LISTEN!  :)

-- Grace

Tuesday Tunes with Jordan Taylor

Hello and welcome to another session of Tuesday Tunes! Today we have a song from a YouTuber, Jordan Taylor, that Grace and I are big fans of. Jordan made an album somewhere about a year ago called 'Long Drive.' I hadn't really gotten around to listening to it until Sunday when Grace and I made our (possibly 1,000th...) Q&A style blog post. That's when I listened to the song I'm featuring today. 'Don't Let Me Go.' WOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOW. I think we all have times in our lives when we fall away from doing what we know is right. Sometimes we just feel disconnected from God. This song beautifully expresses that deep heartache from the bad choices we've made, and sends a heartfelt plea for God to stay with us. I can't quite do it justice with my own words. Give it a listen, and let me know what you think.

You can listen to 'Don't Let Me Go' and the rest of Jordan Taylor's album here.

 I recommend 'Need Each Other' especially.

Enjoy! ~Promise

This or That II: The Promise Edition

Hair up or down?

Uggggg, I get a lot of flack for wearing my hair in a ponytail all the time, but I like my hair down too. (Unless it's being knotty, pun intended, then it goes up.) 

Red or blue?

Generally, blue. Unless we're talking lipstick. 

Star of the show or behind-the-scenes?

Well, you've already asked me this....Don't know. I like acting.

Hot cocoa or coffee?

BOTH. At the same time. It's called a mocha and it's one of the tastiest things ever. 

A night at the opera (or a music recital of other sorts) or in the stands at a high school football game?

Football game. I don't like operas.

 

Brass instruments or stringed?

Stringed. Especially guitar and cello. I love to feel the vibrations.

Christmas or Thanksgiving?

CHRISTMAS. 

Shakespeare or a textbook? 

You're cruel, you know that? I could deal with 'Much Ado about Nothing.'

 

British accent or Scottish accent?

I love both.....I actually break into a British accent sometimes without realizing it. 

Elevator or stairs?

Stairs. More dramatic. ;)

This or That...THE SEQUAL Grace Edition

YOU THOUGHT WE WERE DONE WITH THESE...Oh no. These will never die.

1. No grains or no meat?
Honestly no meat.  You aren't taking my pumpkin-flavored Thomas English muffins THAT easily.

2. No lip balm or no lotion?
No lip balm.  I can't live without lotion for my hands, especially in the winter.  And I generally live without lip balm, as Promise often notices when she's trying to put red lipstick on me.  #noshame

3. Blimey Cow or Studio C?
Blimey Cow, as much as I love Studio C.  I agree with BC more.

4. Narnia or LOTR?
LOTR.  THE PARALLELLLLLLLLSSSSSSSS.

5. Book or movie?
Book.  I would much rather read any day.  Although, movies are more mindless...nah, always book.

6. Casting Crowns or Piano Guys?
Casting Crowns.  As you can tell by my YouTube history and Pandora stations.

7. Natural or painted nails?
Natural.  I VERY rarely have painted nails.

8. Day or night?
Daytime.  I'm still scared of the dark.  Buuuut, I do love a night on the town.  I love to look at the lights.

9. Dress or jeans?
Jeans.  All.  Day.  Long.

10. Cats or dogs?
Cats.  Always.

Tuesday Tunes with Grace's Request.

Hello everyone! (seriously, I have to figure out a better opening) Welcome to Tuesday Tunes. Today I'm doing a song Grace requested, 'Oh My Soul' by Casting Crowns. Guys, Casting Crowns is one of the only bands that Grace and I mutually love. This is a song from their new CD, 'The Very Next Thing.' Check it out!




 Enjoy! God bless. ~Promise

Tuesday Tunes with Mathew West! Again!

Hey everyone! Welcome back to Tuesday Tunes. I know I did a Mathew West song recently, but he has a new song out called "Mended." Let me tell you, this song is A M A S I N G. If you're going through something hard this is the song for you. Maybe you're making changes in your life, maybe you're dealing with guilt from past mistakes. This song reminds you, God is bigger than anything you're going through. Keep your head up! God's got a plan, and he'll help you out. God loves you! ~Promise

Tuesday Tunes with Steven Curtis Chapman

Hey everyone, today I have a song by one of the first musicians I ever listened to. Steven Curtis Chapman has some pretty powerful music. I love this song, called 'Magnificent Obsession.' It's a fluent expression of his love for God. The music is stunning, and the lyrics meaningful and desire driven. Try it out guys. ~ Promise.

Worn

https://youtu.be/UUEy8nZvpdM

I know Promise has always posted music videos, but I can't help this one.  It came across my Pandora tonight as I was working, and I couldn't help but realize how closely the lyrics relate to my life right now.

The past few days have been trying.  I had a falling out with some friends (and am trying to tactfully stick up for my beliefs and what is best for me), worked too hard, and my sickness has been prominent the past few days.  I told my brother that I am bone-weary.

Which was until the clock struck 9:30, and insomnia hit.  Now I am exhausted, at 1:48am....and the thought of getting up tomorrow morning is beyond me. 

One moment at a time, one step at a time.  :)  That's all I can take right now.

"That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be unto praise and honor and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ; whom, having not seen, ye love; in whom, though now ye see him not, ye rejoice with joy unspeakable and full of glory."  1 Peter 1:7-8

Dealing with Critiques ~Promise

   Hey...I'm going to be honest here for a minute. I just spent a few minutes feeling pretty depressed. As you know, I write music and that music means a lot to me. It's part of my soul weaving it's self into melodies and rhymes, so when someone shows me the problems withing said music, I can feel pretty down for a while. I decided to write out a few ways that I can deal with critiques.

  1. Know that when someone critiques your work, they aren't personally attacking you. (or at least, they shouldn't be) If a person spends the time to show you how your work can get better, then you're obviously worth something.

2. It's okay if you don't agree. A different opinion doesn't automatically mean it's the right option for you. When it comes down to it, you are the creator, and you decide how to put critiques to use.

3. JUST BECAUSE ONE PIECE HAS PROBLEMS DOESN'T MEAN YOU ARE BAD AT WHAT YOU DO. This was my first thought. I give up. If I don't do anything else, then I won't have to deal with critiques. NOPE. Don't listen to that! If the critic knew that his critique gave that reaction, then he'd probably feel horrible. A good critique encourages AND helps with weak points.


~Promise

Tuesday Tunes with Casting Crowns

Hey people! I'm short on time, so here you go. Wedding Day by Casting Crowns. It's good. It's beautiful. It shows the undying love of Christ. I'm sure Grace will add comments on the song since she suggested it.

~Promise

Promise's Quirks

   Hey everybody! Today, I thought I'd post about ten weird things about me...If you're still reading the blog by the time we're done, maybe post a quirk of yours in the comments.

1. I can't stand liking a Youtube video when it's already on a 0 or a 5. Same sort of thing with the TV volume, I have to have it to end with a 0 or a 5.

2. I don't really like peanut butter unless my blood sugar is low, then it's the best tasting food ever.

3. I hate the sound of polyester being scratched or rubbed.

4. I don't really like dill pickles, but I really like dill pickle flavored things, like dill pickle potato chips. The same goes for bananas.

5. I relate almost anything to a song or a movie, and I love memorizing movie quotes.

6. I especially like less well know Disney movies like The Emperor's New Groove or Tarzan.

7. I HATE spending money. It pains me to spend $10. (Kat can attest to this.)

8. I don't mind snakes or mice, but I HATE spiders. I don't know why...Irrational fear I suppose...

9. I will find a song I like and listen to it on repeat until my ears bleed.

10. I'm very picky about my nails. I can't stand having my nails jagged or rough.


   Well, that's that. Don't forget to comment!

~Promise.

Tuesday Tunes with Britt Nicole

   Hey People who actually read this! Today's post is from Britt Nicole.

These songs are especially for Grace. I think she might like the lyrics. The first song is called 'When She Cries.' I love this song, it tells the story of a broken girl and her struggles, and eventually her move towards a better life.









 The next (and last) song is called 'Still that Girl.' This song means so much to me. It reminds us that even when we go through hard things, we can emerge stronger than before.
   Enjoy! ~Promise.

Kathryn and Kat do My Makeup?!

Sooooo....Kathryn and Kat are some of my best friends...And I trust them to make good decisions....However......

They were going for a 50's feel. I think. ;) Hey, they're getting good, and if they need me to experiment on, then I'm game. It's really not THAT bad...maybe just clip my eyeliner's wings. Love you girls! 

(It probably would have helped Kat if I wasn't laughing so hard. Note to self, Blimey Cow and makeovers don't always mix...)

~Promise. 

A Delish Peanut Buttery Treat ~Promise

I told Grace via email that I had made a goodie involving peanut butter, and she replied with "PEANUT BUTTER?!!!?!!!?!?!?! GIMME GIMME GIMME GIMME GIMME GIMME GIMME GIMME GIMME GIMME GIMME 

GIMMMMMMMMMMMMMMEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE SSSSSSSSSUUUUUUUUMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMM"

Yes. That was a quote.


So, I figured that I'd do her a favor and give her the recipe.


It's pretty simple.


1/2 cup peanut butter

  1 cup powdered milk

1/2 - 1 cup sugar or coconut sugar

Simply combine in a food prosessor or a mixer, then roll into balls and place on a cookie sheet. They should look something like this.

Now, if you must, you can eat the peanut butter balls right then, but they taste even better after they've been in the freezer for a few hours.

So, there you go. You're welcome, Grace.

~Promise

Tuesday Tunes with My Childhood Music.

    Hey everyone! (Okay, Introductions are super annoying to write, so gimme a break, 'kay?)
   Today I'm feeling some nostalgia, so I'm taking a trip back in time to some of the music I liked as a kid.

The Great Adventure, Steven Curtis Chapman. This guy and his music has gotten me through some hard times. But I'll post on that some other day. I remember thinking how awesome this music was back as a 8 year old. Love that electric guitar. My family loves this guy. I think we have all of his CDs, except for the new one.

Revelation, Third Day. My Dad really liked Third Day when I was a kid. We have most of their CDs as well. I don't really remember all the songs I liked, but I know we listened to this one on road trips. It's pretty great, and I think Grace will like it.

The Motions, Mathew West. I remember when this album came out. I still love it. I do specifically remember loving this song. I've said it before, and I'll say it again, MATHEW WEST IS AMAZING.



Well, that was my trip down memory lane. Enjoy! ~Promise.

Divine Love -- Grace

I just wanted to....I dunno...get my feelings out?  I saw something a few minutes ago that had a huge impact on me, and I wanted to write about it.

If you're a regular reader on the Double H, you probably know I've been going through some health problems for a few months now.  I've been dealing with a lot of insecurity lately, partly due to that, and it seems like the devil's been sneaking some lies into my brain.

As if that's not trying enough, I've been thinking a lot about my future.  I'm a senior this year (FINALLY!!!!) ;) and I've been praying about what I'm supposed to do with my life.  Let's just say....I have a map, and God has a map.

And they don't match.

Sooooo, I've been trying to argue with myself to get over 1) my insecurities and 2) my self-will.  Neither of them are coming easy.

I'm sure you've been wont to ask the question, "Why me?  Why do I have to deal with this?"

I remember sitting in the car alone after having a breakdown in the grocery store.  Mom was finishing her shopping and I was...bawling.  I turned my face towards Heaven and I said, "Why me?  Why do I have to deal with this?  Is this my lot in life -- all of this lethargy and fatigue, all of this brain fog and forgetfulness?  Am I stuck with feeling insecure and depressed for the rest of my life?"  And then I told Him...that I felt terrible about myself.  I told Him my insecurities and weaknesses and all the reasons I detested to look in the mirror.

And the Spirit came, and He whispered, I love you.  And then one of the best things happened.  He told me one way He was going to use my life...to help others.  It was incredible.  I was excited.

Yet here I am, sitting here looking towards Heaven again, wondering, "Why me?  How is this going to benefit me?"  I think that's a common problem...just wondering what's in it for yourself.  But, I am.

And I just read a quote I loved a few months ago, and had forgotten about.  It's Charles Spurgeon.  Great guy, he was.  One thing: I think it's interesting that he spoke this back in the 1800s and the Lord used it to minister to me today, nearly two hundred years later.  Anything, what Mr. Spurgeon said all those years ago was this:

"Remember this: had any other condition been better for you than the one in which you are, Divine Love would have put you there."

-- Charles Spurgeon

What a great and divine Master we serve....One Who loves all of us so much that He put us in our respective places, knowing what kind of a refining we would need to be pure gold fit for His kingdom; knowing just what we would need in our lives to sustain us and help us become pure and perfect.

Charles Spurgeon was right. 

God is Divine Love.

Tuesday Tunes with Songs that Grace will Hate with an All Consuming Passion.

Hey peoples! Grace, you have been warned. Today's song is by Lecrae, an amazing christian rapper. (again, Grace, you have been warned) I really enjoy a lot of his music, and I'm going to post a few of my favorite songs. The lyrics are deep and thought provoking. Unfortunately, I can't get the music on here, so I suggest searching the following song titles on YouTube:

 1. Children of the Light.

2. Chase That.

3. Used to do it Too.

4. Free from it All.

5. Background.



Take a listen. ~Promise.

When You've Got to Surrender -- Grace

It's been one wild ride of a week.  I mean, this week could have been comparable to the world's tallest roller-coaster.

The latter half of this week found me questioning a lot of things.  You see, I like to know what to expect.  Even though I'm flexible in the minor things of life, I like to know the big things.  You know -- the super big stuff, like what grade I'm going to be in and what I want God wants me to do in my life.  (And yes, you're probably saying I'm crazy, but I like to know what my biggest calling is.  You know, some people are nurses, and some are teachers, and some are musicians.  For a long time, I've felt like I could be none of these...or all three...or something else, but I didn't know what).

I have questioned since Thursday a lot of things that I've already prayed about a ton.  Right now in my life I see two very distinct paths, a fork in the road.  And, as I can see it now, they both look straight and narrow.  Yet I know the Lord is very much interested in which one I shall take...and I am sure there is an answer that He would give to me.

The thing is...I've prayed about all of this before...and I'm pretty sure I know what He wants me to do.  The only problem?  I want to take the other road.

As a result of this desire and a retreat I've been attending this weekend, I wrote...this.

I stand before a parted road;

I see now two paths ahead.

And both are straight and narrow ways...

I cry to Christ Who bled,

"So bright the things I could achieve --

I'd be rich beyond compare!

Yet still I find I'm asking me,

'Would I find my Savior there?'

There's a widened road ahead of me;

I see it now so near...

Yet if I take that winding path,

I'd lose what I hold dear.

Though other callings tempt me still,

I'll walk the narrow way --

Though bright the things that call to me,

I'll go for You today."

:)

What is Beauty? Let's Chat...

Just a fair warning, this is going to be a very girl-centered post. ;)



So, this is me. Remnants of eyeliner still on my face, but other than that, no makeup.

As you know, I like doing my own, and other people's makeup. I'm a bit of an artist, so it sort of feels like an extension of painting. I love making people's features stand out. I believe that every person is beautiful, and they don't need to wear makeup if they don't want to. I also like to try makeup looks that aren't natural, just for fun. Today I did my makeup based on how social media sees beauty. Contour, filled in brows, full lips, perfect eye makeup (or as close to perfect as I could get it)

  Now I'm beautiful.

  Or...Am I?

   Why is this girl beautiful, and the other isn't? As I looked in the mirror, I was kind of shocked. I didn't really look like me anymore. I looked like a painted on mask.

   Now, I'm not at all slamming girls that want to do their makeup this way. It's fun to experiment and find new looks, what I am saying is this: Don't lose yourself in the process. Don't buy into the lie that you must look this way to have worth. Your worth doesn't come from tube of face paint. Your worth comes from the one who made you with worth. God. I know this sounds like the most cliche post ever, but people need to hear it. We all struggle with things that we don't like about our selves. I wish my nose was longer, I wish I didn't have acne, I wish I had fuller lips and defined cheekbones like Grace, perfect wavy hair and poise like my friend Kathryn, Kat's beautiful turquoise eye color and mischievous smile. But I'll bet there are things that they feel insecure about. Funny, huh? I guess my point is, embrace your God given beauty. Don't feel like you have to cover up your face. Let who God created shine through. Beauty is more that what you can see on the outside. Take my mom. She's pretty on the outside and all, but what really makes her beautiful is her deep love and loyalty to her friends and family, her caring nature and bubbly laughter. Most of all, her commitment to follow Christ and her trust in God. THAT is beauty.

   I have a challenge that I'd like to issue. Post one thing that you're insecure about into the comments. It could be a facial feature, a hobby, you name it. Maybe by admitting what holds us back will help us move past them.

And you, reading this post.

   I just want you to know, you are unconditionally loved and more beautiful, inside and out that you can imagine.

Love, Promise.

12 Things Homeschooling Seniors Think

One for every year of school.  ;)

12. "....COLLEGE??!?!?!?!"

11 "You mean like with a classroom?"

10 "And homework?"

9. "AND SCHEDULES??!?!?!?!!"

8. "I need a job...."

7. "I hope I get into that rad Chistian university...."

6.  "It's much too late to go public now..."

5. "I WILL NOT!"

4. "What am I supposed to do?"

3. "HELLO, GOD??  WHAT IS MY CALLING????"

2. "Oh my heavens, PLEASE let me pass the HiSET...."

1. "DONE!  I AM DONE!"

Tuesday Tunes with Mathew West.

Hey everyone! Another Tuesday, another Tuesday Tunes! Today we have a song called 'You are Everything' by Mathew West. I love the piano in this song, as well as the lyrics. He conveys such a passionate love for God through his music. I've long admired his position as a Singer/Songwriter. Check it out!
God bless! Keep your chin up. ~Promise.

Tuesday Tunes with Feel Better Music

Hey. Today kinda stinks, so I'm doing a list of songs that make me feel better. These songs tend to help me see the more positive side of life, and help me when I'm down. They start out as how I feel, and gradually turn into how I want to feel. Enjoy. ~Promise.

Things People Say to Thyroid Patients (And Their Responses) -- Grace

1. "Why don't you go outside? It might make you feel better."
What I say: "Oh, maybe I'll go for a walk tomorrow..."
What I think: "I can't even open my eyes outside.  How will that make me feel better??"

2. "Are you sure you're sick?  You don't look like it."
What I say: "Yeah, I went to the doctor for it."
What I think: "I'm in chronic pain, with chronic insomnia and exhaustion, cold intolerance, brain fog, anxiety, depression, slow metabolism, GI issues, and an enlarged thyroid....yeah, you're right.  All in my head."

3. "You're a teenager.  It's normal to be tired."
What I say: "I'm going to bed."
What I think: "....For seven months???"

4. "All you need to do is exercise and eat more healthy.  You'll lose that weight in no time!"
What I say: "Yeah!......"
What I think: ".............................."

5. "I fight hypothyroidism too.  I know how hard that is; I've walked that road myself for many years. Why don't you go take a nap?"
What I say: "Great idea!"
What I think: "YOU ARE THE KINDEST AND MOST WONDERFUL AND UNDERSTANDING AND AMAZING PERSON EVERRRRRRR!!!!!!"

:) I decided to turn a hard day into one which I could laugh at.  :) Zzzzzzzz, Grace

Tuesday Tunes with Jonny Diaz

Hello and welcome to the double h blog! Today on Tuesday Tunes we have Breathe by Jonny Diaz. This is a great message, especially for a 'super stresser' like me. I love how this song has a fast beat at the beginning, like a fast heartbeat, then it stops when you hit the chorus. I think the song gets the point across while being incredibly entertaining and creative. Enjoy!
~Promise.

(thank you random commenter for reminding me of this song!)

Sixteen Things Piano Players Say or Think

So, for my eighth anniversary of being married to my piano, I thought I'd post this.  :) Enjoy!

16.  “What level are you in?” 

“Um…..I’ve been playing for eight years and I just finished Chopin’s Prelude in E Minor?”

15.  “What’s the name of that song by Bach?  You know, the one that goes, duh-duh-duh-duh-duh?”

14.  “Would you mind turning pages for me this weekend when I play for the quartet?”

13.  “Sorry, I can’t hang out.  I’m practicing.”

12.  “You thought I was kidding when I said I practice all day??”

11. *Person asks question while I’m playing the piano* “……….nnnnoooo……..”

10.  “Five…..SHARPS???!???!!!?!?!”

9.  “I swear I played that key.  For some reason the sound didn’t come out.”

8.  “Ahh, yes, this measure.  I’ve played it ten times every day for the past two weeks.  It sounds great now.”

7.  “Hold on, let me take my shoes off.”

6.  “The house is empty?  I hope the neighbors like Anton Dvorak’s Largo from the New World Symphony!”

5.  “….my brain forgot how to do this….but my fingers didn’t…”

4.  “Dang key changes.”

3.  “Dear vocalist: please come in on time – NOT TOO EARLY!!!!!”

2.  *Thinks back on life’s story* “….I just played that song perfectly….”

1.  “Music is my life.  There is nothing else I love quite as much as sitting down on a piano bench and playing my sorrows away.”

~ Grace

Tuesday Tunes ON TUESDAY!

I did it! I actually have Tuesday Tunes going on Tuesday! Hurray! Today I'm doing two songs (I'm limiting myself to ONE Relient K...) The first one is Getting into You by Relient K. I love this song because it's sweet and thoughtful. I love the line that says 'I'm getting into you, because you got to me...' It's great how God seems to get to people, right? Enjoy.







The second one is by Hollyn. This girl has a wonderful, powerful voice that gives me goosebumps. I love this song, All I Need is You. It's a cover of Lecrae's song. (and I do love Lecrae) I love the way she adds her own personal flair to the song, while keeping the same over all feel of the music.




Hope your day is blessed! ~Promise.

Life ~Promise

   Life. It's funny, it's crazy, it's happy...
It's also painful, and sad.

   Summer days, flowers, cool breezes wafting through your hair, winter chills, hot chocolate, hugs from friends.

   Regrets, changes, moves, death, tears and dark nights that you cry yourself to sleep, praying that tomorrow will be better.

   I get it.

   I guess this post is to tell you that you're not alone. Life is hard, life brings pain and disappointment and failures, but it's something nobody should ever give up on. To you teenagers out there, hi. I know how hard you try to get school done, figure out who God created you to be, keep up with friends and family. Let's be honest. Life kinda stinks sometimes, right? It's okay to admit that you don't have it all figured out. I'll let you in on the world's big secret. Nobody has life figured out. But, I know who created life. I know who created you.
 
    I hope you know how much you are loved.

   Guess what? You know that voice in your head that whispers ' Nobody likes you, why would they? If you were gone, who'd notice? '

  NEVER.

  LISTEN.

   It's one of the devil's best tricks. You are valuable, needed, and cherished by those around you and by God! It breaks his heart to see you suffer. That doesn't mean you won't suffer. Pain makes us strong. Hardships lead us to the One who's strong.
 
    If you're going through a hard time in your life, don't give up. I promise you that it will get better. I promise you that Jesus will sit with you in the dark watches of the night.  I promise that a new dawn will break and the light of morning with draw you into it's arms.
  
   So, life. Crazy, unpredictable life.

It's kind of beautiful, isn't it?

God bless. ~Promise.

National Lipstick Day!

Hey everyone! Promise here, with a post about one of my favorite things, LIPSTICK. ( I know that I seem like a total girly girl all the time on here, but I promise that I actually do non girly things... )

   For lipstick day, I'm sharing three of my favorite lipsticks. 

This one is a Covergirl Outlast lipstick in the shade 'Plum Fury.' I don't really wear it that much because I forget about it, but I love the color. 

The next one is '70,' a lipstick from the Covergirl Starwars collection. Lipstick...AND Starwars? PERFECTION. I love the peachy rose gold shade. 

The last one is called Fire Opal from Revlon. It's a nicely pigmented lipgloss ( okay, technically not a lipstick ) 

It's a super bright orang-y red. 

Have a favorite lipstick, Grace? ;) ~Promise. 

MBTI as Christian Music

   Hey ya'll!  So, I should probably explain what this is all about (per Promise's note in all caps left here for me...)  :D  Saturday night, I was chilling out and listening to some music.  Last month a friend and I were talking about our current music obsessions, and he told me about the song Happiness by Needtobreathe.  I looked it up, and I currently love it.  So, I was listening to it Saturday, and this random thought when shooting through my head... "If Myers-Briggs types had theme songs, this would be an ESFP."  Thus, I emailed Promise, asking for help, and...here we are!  Thank you, kindly INFJ, for taking over so well.  Because you know us INFPs....ha...ha...ha *gets distracted by the butterfly floating through the garden*

   So...Grace and I are writing this post together. She's doing the 'Ps' and I'm doing the 'Js.'

   

   It took me a long time to decide on a song for ISTPs, but I finally chose Live Like You're Loved by Hawk Nelson.  The reason I chose this song is because ISTPs tend to be pretty laid-back.  They seem kind of spontaneous and just kind of...go-with-the-flow to me (even though they are full of oxymorons and tend to be rational, too).  They are very relaxed, and I feel like this song is kind of saying, "Hey, don't be so hard on yourself.  You're loved by God!!"

   For ESTPs, I chose Revelation Song by Phillips, Craig, and Dean.  The reason I chose this song is because ESTPs come across as blunt to me, like they're saying, "Here's the truth!"

Since INTPs are very logical, I chose I Can Only Imagine by MercyMe.  I've read that INTPs have an "unquenchable thirst for knowledge."  This song is one man wondering what meeting Jesus will be like.

   Since I'm not really close to ENTPs and haven't really figured out how they work yet, Promise suggested VIP by Manic Drive.  I have to admit it's pretty accurate for what little I know of ENTPs.

   For INFPs, I have picked Here's My Heart, Lord by Casting Crowns.  The reason I chose this song is because of our high Fi.  Fi means we look at our hearts and say, "This goes against my morals" or "This goes with what I believe".  I think the line that drew me to picking this song for us INFPs is, "Here's my heart, Lord; speak what is true."

   

   As for ENFPs, I've chosen And All the People Said "Amen!" by Matt Maher.  This song just makes me think of the bouncy happiness of ENFPs!  I just love it.  :D

   They say ISFPs like to "wake up a different person than they go to bed as", and that they're very passionate.  Since this is the case, I've picked Tell Your Heart to Beat Again by Danny Gokey.

   Now for my favorite one that I picked -- in fact, the song that inspired this whole post....for the 

   ESFPs, I picked Happiness by Needtobreathe.  This song was recommended to me by a dear friend, and after I listened to it for the first time, I was hooked.  One night I was listening to it when I realized, this could be the ESFP's theme song.  Always ready to have fun and be the center of attention, ESFPs are always searching for happiness.  :)

   Hey! Prommie here with our lovely 'J' friends!

   Starting off with INTJ. This is Not a Test  by Tobymac. I feel like the song has the fearless, logical heart of an INTJ. Its go that "quit messing around and go do what God wants, and for heaven's sake don't whine" thing that a friend of mine has. (love ya, Kat!)

   ENTJ. Grace is quite interested to find what I've picked for this type. (hi Jon! the HPEPP lives!) I chose Slow Down by Third Day. It just struck me as a "Keep up with me if you can!" Battle cry of a strong willed ENTJ.

   INFJ. Being this type, I had a super hard time choosing 'cause there are a ton of great INFJ-y songs out there. I chose This is Who I Am by Colton Dixon. This song kinda sounds like an INFJ's thoughts.

   ENFJ. This was super easy for me. My daddy's a ENFJ. This is Let Me Love You by Third Day (yes more Third Day. They're great.) ENFJs love fighting for people and Ideas. They're caring and courageous.

   ISFJ. My Mom's an ISFJ. She's kind and practical, and doesn't hesitate to help. I picked Brave by Nicole Nordeman. I think they'd appreciate the idea of letting go and letting God.

   ESFJ. I thought this was the perfect song. If We're Honest by Francesca Battistelli. It's caring and sweet and honest, like the ESFJs. I feel like they might enjoy this song.

   ISTJ. I picked this song, He is With You by Mandisa for it's reassurance. I know ISTJs sometimes just need someone to be there for them. They are so strong and determined to finish their task.You always have God. No matter what. (hi Kathryn! love ya!)

   ESTJ. Last One! Trust in You by Lauren Daigle. ESTJs are awesome, so determined and great at commanding order, but this song shows off the vulnerability that ESTJs sometimes have with control. I think they'd appreciate it. 

So, since Grace wrote the intro, I'll do the wrap up. I know I had a ton of fun (and work) doing this post, and I'm sure Grace did too. Enjoy! ~Promise --Grace

Special Guest Makeup on Promise's Mom!

So, this is my mom. She normally doesn't wear a ton of makeup and she looks great. Today I gave her a bright rosie lipgloss and some definition on her eyes. ~Promise. Special thanks to Prommie's Mommy! 

I'm Not Perfect -- Grace

I have a confession to make.

I'm a sinner.

I mean, we all are.  But there are some things I did right up until yesterday that made me...well, pretty wicked.  And there I was, vacuuming, and the song Slow Fade by Casting Crowns "randomly" came on the radio.

I struggled with a secret for probably about a year.  No one, and I do mean literally no one, knew about this.  Even Promise -- who knows all and sees all -- didn't know....I doubt she ever even guessed.

This sin of mine, as deep and dark as I knew it was, had ahold of me.  I was stuck for months in the vicious cycle of repent, fall, repent, fall...repent....and slip and fall even further.

And Slow Fade came on the radio.  The more I heard, I realized something.  Maybe it was the Spirit witnessing to me, or maybe it was my thinking, but the thought occurred... "If you continue down the path you are in, you will lose yourself."

"You will lose yourself."

So...last night I confessed to someone.  I told her almost everything.  And then I confessed to God.  I told Him that because of this sin I felt like I had lost my innocence.  And, tears streaming down my cheeks for the things I'd lost and the irreparable scars I'd gained, I sobbed, "O, Father, forgive me..."

I can't explain how nasty I felt for what I'd done.

And then, there it was...in my mind's eye.  A field, filled with beautiful flowers...and a Man in a white robe standing there.  A little girl, bawling, was running towards Him...and His arms were outstretched.  She reached Him and He caught her up in His arms as she cried into His robe...and He comforted her.

I don't know if it was the Spirit, or my imagination.  Maybe it was a little bit of both.  But that was exactly the picture I needed to see.  I know that no matter what you've done, He still holds His arms wide open to you.

You just have to come as a little child.

Tuesday Tunes, Grace Version

Hey guys!  So while Promise is off and away, I've been asked to do Tuesday Tunes this week.  DO YOU EVEN KNOW HOW LONG I'VE BEEN WAITING FOR THIS????  Hahaha, that's only because I'm going to subject you to Casting Crowns.  Hahaha...you poor folks.  Okay, here we go.

Just Be Held

This song has meant a lot to me in the past.  Every time I'm going through a trial, holding a burden, or walking through a valley, I listen to this song.  It brings me peace and helps me surrender my problems to God.  I do tend to worry about the future a lot, and there are parts of it that just...touch me.  "I'm painting beauty with the ashes, your life is in My hands..."  It reminds me that no matter what I see, God sees the full picture.  I see puzzle pieces, but He sees a finished picture.

Dream For You

This strikes me as one that Promise would like...Dream For You is a song that I can't decide if I like or not.  I'm not a fan of the music of it, but the words are just really.cool.  It reminds me that I have no idea what this future holds...but He knows.  I have my dreams, and He has His.  "So let go of your plan, be caught by My hand, I'll show you what I can do..."

The Well

This is my absolutely positively most favorite Christian pop song.  I love the message of this song!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!  "And all who thirst will thirst no more, And all who search will find what their souls long for, The world will try, but it can never fill...so leave it all behind, and come to the Well."  It reminds me that the world will try to satisfy my soul, but Jesus, the Son of God, is the only One who can satisfy the human heart.  It gives me encouragement when I'm going through temptation.

Slow Fade

This song really hit me today when it "randomly" came across my Pandora.  The part about "Be careful, little eyes, what you see; it's the second glance that ties your hands as darkness pulls the string" really made me stop and think.  Let's just say, I'm grateful for this song.

Glorious Day

My second favorite Casting Crowns song, I love the way this song just...sounds, and is written.  I love the piano introduction and I love how hopeful and sweet it is.  I also really love the chorus (which is often running through my head).  "Living, He loved me; dying, He saved me; buried, He carried my sins far away!  Rising, He justified freely forever, one day, He's coming, O glorious day!!"

I hope you enjoy these songs as much as I do!

Love, Grace

LATE AGAIN. Tuesday Tunes.

AAAARG! Forgot again. Today's post is encouraging songs that I love.


Mandisa - Press On

 I love Mandisa's powerful voice and her often wonderfully positive music. This song always helps me out when I'm feeling unsure or I just want to quit fighting. Her advice is golden, "One step in front of the other, no looking back, no looking back..."

Britt Nicole - The Sun is Rising

 I was hooked on Britt Nicole ever sense I heard 'Set the World on Fire' many years ago. I admire her ability to write some of her own music. Her lyrics in this song lift my spirit and help you look to the rising sun.











Enjoy! ~Promise.


BTW GRACE. I will be gone next week so Grace's writing Tuesday Tunes.

Korean Makeup on Grace!

Soooo, I tried out Korean style makeup on Grace. The only problem was that Grace was laughing while I was trying to do her makeup. ;)

~Promise. 

Dieu Bénisse France -- Grace

They say it was an odd day today.  It was odd for me too. 

I got up and went to Vacation Bible School, where I've been helping corral our fourteen first-graders all week.  I came home and ate lunch, and then I slept.  It was 6pm when I woke up, and I went to band practice.  I got home at 9:45 and worked on a story idea I had last fall.  It was 12am when I climbed into bed and started watching YouTube videos.

Last spring I gave up Facebook, and last weekend I gave up Instagram.  News just doesn't really travel on Pinterest, and I don't watch television anymore, really. 

But I saw the videos.  I clicked on one and saw the footage. 

Today was Bastille Day in France.  It was like our Fourth of July.  In a little French town called Nice, families and friends were gathered on a beachside promenade to watch the fireworks show.  It was about 10:30pm there -- they say it would have been around 3:30 here in the Midwest -- when there was another terrorist attack.

I watched the six-minute long video, and as I did, my heart shattered.  I slammed my phone down and wept.  Turning my face towards heaven, I cried, "O, Father, how long shall thy people suffer?"

Oh, how I long for Zion...

Please...keep this world in your prayers.

~ Grace

Looking Back -- Grace

Today I'm looking backwards.  I almost always look forward, to the future, but today I'm taking a moment to step back and look at how the Lord has worked in my life.

He has worked marvelously.

For the past seven years, my family has been going through a really hard trial.  It was May 2009 when I became aware of this trial, and I have been praying about it since then.  

This trial was that my brother became an atheist.  He and his wife raised their children in sin for some time.  Growing up, it was hard for me, knowing that my brother didn't believe anything that I grew to love.  It was hard for me, knowing that my nephews might not be able to make the right choices because of how they had been raised.  

Last summer I had a vision that my brother returned to church...and in April of this year, he began to bring his family to Sunday school.  This week I get to help in my oldest nephew's class at Vacation Church School.  He is so eager to pray for the classes, and he told me today,

"Sometimes you just have to trust God.  It's good to trust Him."  Then he said, "When I grow up, I want to be a Sunday school teacher."

This was so, so big for me...because I have been waiting for seven years to hear him say things like that.  I still can hardly believe it.  

Our God is a God of miracles.  He is AMAZING!!!

Know that God has a plan, even for our detours.  <3

~ Grace

Cheshire Cat Eye ~Promise

Currently I have a thing for Wonderland. I designed this eye makeup look for a dear friend of mine. I think it's insane. Exactly what I was going for. ;)

Trying my Hand at Korean Style Makeup~ Promise

Hey everyone! So I've been kinda into Korean makeup lately, so I figured I would try it out. The popular style right now is big eyes, gradient lips, dewy skin and blush almost under your eyes. I have to admit, my eyes look kinda huge. Gracie? Wanna let me try it in you? ;) 

Tuesday Tunes with Hawk Nelson

Hey Everyone! It's Promise  here with another Tuesday Tunes. Ha ha! I finally remembered! Today we're taking a look at a song beloved by Grace and myself. Diamonds by Hawk Nelson. Through the miserable, hard times God makes us strong. He's making us into diamonds. :) God bless fellow diamonds! ~Promise

Friday Tuesday Tunes.......Oops.....

   I'm done fighting it. I can't keep it in anymore. I'M DOING AN ENTIRE POST DEDICATED TO RELIENT K! They're one of my favorite bands right now.

First off. Which to Bury, Us or the Hatchet. I enjoy this song a lot. It tells a story of a fight and the different ways to deal with it. The person here chose the hard path. It is sad, watching a relationship fail, but it's also a life lesson.

Next we have Mood Rings. I love the guy's perspective in this song. We girls...We sometimes don't make sense. especially if we run with our emotions. Mood rings could be a great idea. This song makes me want to keep my head on straight so I don't confuse everyone else.










Okay...One more. The Best Thing. This is the first Relient K song I ever heard. I really like this song. To me it means finding God in a personal way. To think of him as your most intimate friend, because that's who he is. My favorite line is "When I looked into your eyes, and you dared to stare right back, you should have said 'Nice to meet you, I'm your other half." Yep. That's what I want it to be like for me and my Lord.





Sooo, that's it. Relient K, my current obsession. Hope you enjoyed. I'm going to try to remember to keep Tuesday Tunes on TUESDAY. ~Promise

Why I Gave Up Facebook -- Grace

I'll be straight-up-honest here: I love social media.  It's great.  There are some I use more than others, like how I like Pinterest and Instagram best because I'm a very visual person.  But Facebook was my first love.  Or...my first social media account...whichever is more appropriate.  :P  I got a Facebook the day after I turned thirteen.  One of my best friends lives at least two hours away, and I hadn't talked to her in years -- that was my first reason.  And now I have friends and family literally from Maine to Oregon.  Facebook was my way of keeping in touch with all of those people -- even family and friends that live in town.  I got health updates on friends and family in dire need.  I saw pictures of my little cousins and friends' babies.  I heard about birthday parties and weddings, celebrated engagements and well-wishes for trips, watched as friends bragged on their best friend or sent random "you're awesome" messages to others.  I shared my poetry on there -- the stuff that God gave me to share with others.

So why did I give it up?

(I'll be honest....I still ask myself this question sometimes).

It's a tool.  But it's only useful if you use it wisely.  I used to check Facebook once every five minutes.  I'm alone a lot, and it was very easy for me to get bored and turn to Facebook for entertainment.  And with two hundred plus Facebook friends, there's bound to be a new post every ten minutes.

What else could I have done with the hours and hours and hours I've wasted, waiting for....what?  For another like?  A comment that would make me feel good for all of five minutes?  I could have been writing, sewing, sharing with others -- things that are worthwhile.  I could have been spending time with God and reading the Scriptures.

But instead, I was wasting my time on a shallow little social media platform....waiting for....nothing.

(Disclaimer: I love Instagram...it's slower and more laid-back than Facebook, and I don't feel the need to check it as often).

So...what could you do with the time you spend on social media?  Eh?

"Lay not up for yourselves treasure upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and thieves break through and steal.  But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal.  For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also."

Matthew 13:19-21