a CHEERful year's end

     2013: Where has the time gone? It's been a while since I've written here, but not so long that I've written entirely.  I've been doing a lot of handwritten journaling lately, and well, much has happened since my last post!  A new year is about to begin and with it new plans are being made.  Like for instance, I do plan to catch you up on some of the lessons I've learned, foods I've eaten, places I've visited, and pretties I've purchased since my last blog entry, but until then... I'm leaving you with a little "taste" of what's to come!
      A hint:  I traveled back to my favorite city this past summer, and considering I woke up today with a case of what I like to call "the London blues", this cheerful recipe from my favorite, Free People Blog, was just what I needed to pull me out of my homesick-feeling slump.
     These delicious Cranberry-Lemon Scones are the perfect antidote for lifting spirits whether you're feeling down because the holidays are nearing an end, or perhaps like me, you're just missing the city of your heart.
     I made a fresh batch this morning, and take it from me; they're as delicious as the ones I once devoured across the pond!

Cranberry-Lemon Scones

Find the recipe here.

Enjoy, and cheers!

...Happy cooking, and a happy and blessed New Year!

The Second-Wind

     You know those times in life where you find yourself questioning, "why, Lord; why?"  Whether we choose to admit it, I think we've probably all been there.  In fact, just a few weeks ago, through serious tears and exhaustion, I found myself shouting this question at the top of my lungs in the stairwell of my office building, snot-nosed and tissue laden.  I kid you not-- it was an ugly sight. 
     All at once, out of nowhere, life seemed to be falling apart. (Writing this now, that statement seems a bit dramatic, especially knowing how much God has blessed me in the past few months alone,... but at the time, I felt the ground beneath me was stable as quicksand.)  Without going into too much detail,  I was stressed to the max, worried about things beyond my control, and just plain sleepy and sad.  But more than anything, I was mad-- for more reasons than one, but more than anything, mad at myself for allowing myself to feel these things and mad at what I believed was "weakness".  Oh, the difference two weeks makes when you cry out to Jesus!
     You see, I like to run.  Actually, it's more appropriate in saying I love to run.  It clears my mind.  It refreshes my soul.  It makes me happy.  There's something about lacing up my sneakers, cranking up "Of Monsters and Men" on my headphones, and taking to the pavement that's just so freeing. 

    So this, in part, could be why I practically ran to Irving Plaza for church at Hillsong NYC the Sunday morning following my cry-fest in the stairwell. I was looking for Godly advice, and yearning for uplifting encouragement.  And truthfully, I wanted answers!  Life had been going so great; I had never been happier, so why did I find myself in the situation I was in and feeling so alone? 
    Every single day, I pray God will make me more like Jesus.  It's my deepest desire in life.  And what I'm learning is He will do just that.  When we live in Christ, we will find ourselves in situations that are not idyllic to our human/earthly selves.  But it's the lessons we take from those tough-life situations:  patience, grace, love, forgiveness-- that make us stronger and ultimately more like Jesus in the end. 
    We know the story of Jonah.  The Lord tells him to go to Nineveh and preach against the sin there-- Jonah does the exact opposite.  He boards a boat going the opposite direction-- he thinks he's safe.  But out of nowhere, a storm pops us, it tosses the ship to and fro, and Jonah tells the crew to throw him overboard-- because his own disobedience was cause for the storm!  The crew abides, Jonah gets swallowed by a whale and in the belly of the great fish, Jonah waits-- and waits-- and waits:  for 3 days and 3 nights, he waits.  But what happened during that time determined Jonah's next steps.  God mended him.  In the belly of a fish, God mended Jonah.  The whale spewed him out onto dry land, and off to Nineveh Jonah went.  
     We talked about Jonah that Sunday in church.  The sermon was titled, "Broken. Mended. Second-Winded."  Pastor Rich Wilkerson opened the sermon with a harsh but true fact: "when God speaks to you, often times, He'll tell you to do something you don't really want to do.  And sometimes, you'll find yourself in a situation that you really don't understand?  What am I doing here?  How did I get here?"
     He explained that Jonah was broken inside the belly of a whale. And although his own disobedience led him there, God brought mending to Jonah. Just when Jonah was at his lowliest and loneliest-- God mends Jonah for the "second wind". 
     Pastor Wilkerson then went on to say, that "even in times when disobedience isn't what's got us broken, and life just seems to throw us a curve ball-- we find ourselves hurting, and yes, weak... it's crucial that we don't become discouraged.  For we know, "the joy of the Lord is our strength".  We mustn't misinterpret God's preparation for punishment. He is molding us into the image of His Son!" 
     This is where I found myself.  My heart was hurting, and I was broken.  I hadn't disobeyed God.  So why, Lord, why?
      It wasn't until the following statement, that I felt God practically reach out, tap me on the shoulder, and whisper in my ear: "Casey, listen up."
     "How many of you like to run?  As in, for enjoyment?"  At this question, my hand shot up high above the crowd.  Scattered across the room one or two other people raised their hands, and Pastor Wilkerson laughed and said, "what is wrong with you people-- seriously, who runs for pleasure?"  A few giggles here and there, and I'm beginning to wonder where he's going with this.   
     "For all three of you people in the room that raised your hands (haha), you'll relate to this more so than anyone.  You know those times when you set out on a long run, and you're running and running, and you come to a point where you're out of energy, and you just feel like you can't take another step?"  At this point, I am hanging on every word-- I've been there:  a few miles in, and BAM, I find my muscles aching, to the point where I think my legs may fall off my body. 
     Wilkerson went on, "But just when you feel like you can't go on,.. a favorite song comes blasting out your headphones, your adrenaline spikes, and you find yourself running harder and stronger than you were just minutes before?" 
     "Dirty Paws", a favorite 'OMAM' tune of mine, gets me through every time... 
     "This," Wilkerson stated,... "is the second-wind."
     At this, tears began streaming down my face.  I have been here so many times.  Just when I felt I would fall, the second-wind would come, and I found myself running onward.

     Jesus, too, brings us second-winds.  When we find ourselves broken and to the point where we just want to lay down and die, you can keep running:  the promise that Jesus "will never leave us or forsake us," is our strength!  If we remain in Jesus-- asking Him, in prayer, for healing... and continuously in study of His precious Word, we can have hope that He will get us through any brokenness.  For you see, brokenness is a season, not a destination. 
     You have to make a decision to worship Him through the feelings.  Through this brokenness, He'll provide mending.  He's mending you for the second-wind. 
     So how do you know when you're in the mending stage?  According to Wilkerson, "you'll find the pain hasn't fully gone away, but that you're grateful for what God is doing in your heart". 
     Today, as I sit here at my desk writing this post (during my 5pm "lunch" break, I might add), my heart is at peace, and I find myself thanking Him for the mending that's taking place in me right now.  My prayer life is growing; I have been talking to God out loud this past week, and there's no doubt in my mind He hears me.  He's working in me.  He's mending my heart, and making me more like Jesus.  Patience, forgiveness, humility and love-- I yearn for these traits, to share them in abundance, to be what is known as the Proverbs 31 woman. 

***

"She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come." 

 Proverbs 31:25
The New Living Translation describes her like this:  "...she laughs without fear of the future.
***

     I know not what tomorrow may bring, but I have no worries of the "days to come".  Jesus is bringing the second-wind, and I am living out the prayer, "Your kingdom come, Your will be done." Instead of trying to create my own story, I am living the one He has written for me. 
     My Jesus is running the race with me.  Forever encouraging me every step of the way.  Faster and stronger, I am experiencing the second-wind. 



True Beauty

     Growth.  I'm going through some deep, profound growth in my relationship with Jesus right now.  I've found that just when I feel like I'm at a "good place" in Our relationship,.. satan (who doesn't deserve to be in the same sentence with our God) jerks the rug out from under me, and I fall hard.  But even when I fall, I don't break.  My Savior is there to catch me; He rescues me all over again, and His light consumes the dark.  He is glorified, I grow in my faith, and through it all, I become more like Jesus.
    Our Lord's grace cannot be contained.  It is neverending.  It is ever sustaining.  The same grace that saves us, is the same grace that sustains us.  Praise Jesus.  It is by grace you and I have been saved.
     More on the above, later, but until then...
     Today, my amazing/beautiful/God-loving friend:  Carrie V, shared this video with me, which in turn, I'd like to share with all of you.  (Lindsay:  shout out to you for sharing it with Carrie. You two are truly amazing.)  Pretty sure this thing is going viral now...  Matt Lauer will probably be talking about it on 'Today" tomorrow morning...

See the sketches, and read more here.
   

    God continues to reveal many wonders and truths to this heart of mine, and I welcome them gladly, ready to accept.  He continues to mold and shape me into the image of His Son-- the epitome of true beauty.    
    

"Love is War"

     "Turn my eyes to see Your face, as all my fears surrender. 

Hold my heart within this Grace, where burden turns to wonder...

Let Your love be my companion."

 

Jesus.

hillSONG

    This past Sunday, I attended church at Hillsong NYC.  We sang this song, which just so happenes to be one of favorites, and I have had it on repeat each day since.  As you begin your Wednesday, take a few minutes to listen.  Hear the words of this song, and know them in your heart.  But above all:  go out and share this great and powerful news!  "I will rise, as Christ was raised to life. Now in Him... I live."  

~Happy Wednesday!

"beautiful creatures"

     In the words of Martina McBride, "this one's for the girls".  I mean technically, the guys could appreciate this post, too.  But today, I am particularly speaking to my sisters.
     Beauty.  We all strive for it.  We long for it from the time we are a little girl to the day we close our eyes in death.  Every girl-- young and old, wants to be "beautiful".  How else will our Prince Charming notice us?

     Why is it that we put so much work into being beautiful?  Why do we put so much pressure on ourselves to look a certain way, weigh a certain number, fit into an unrealistic jean size?  Truth is, we already know the answer. It's the photo-shopped girls staring back at us from the magazine stands at the check-out line.  The painted faces declaring that we should be wearing this type of eyeshadow and that color lipstick.  The Hollywood movie star kissing her lover, his hands wrapped delicately aroud her petite 22-inch waist.  We put the blood, sweat and tears into being "beautiful" because we haven't realized, believed or accepted the true meaning of beauty.  Oh, we get what the world is telling us about beauty and how we'll never actually attain it.  But just like everything else of the world, this is a misconception, better yet, it's a lie. 
     1 Peter 3 verses 3-4 is at the top of my list of favorite verses from the Bible.  "Your beauty should not come from outward adornment, such as braided hair and the wearing of gold jewelry and fine clothes.  Instead, it should be that of your inner self, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is of great worth in God's sight."  Daughter of the Lord, do you realize what this is saying?  You've probably heard your mother tell you once or twice, that beauty comes from within.  Turns out, ole' mom wasn't so old-fashioned in her way of thinking after all!
     Today, my heart was blessed after reading a beautifully written article titled, "What Is Beautiful?" (click to read).  The writer does an amazing job of redefining how we characterize beauty, and I really encourage you to read it. It ultimately inspired me to write this post, something I think God has been preparing me to write for several months.
      I have this friend.  She is a really great friend.  I've talked her ears off (figuratively), and I've cried on her shoulder (literally).  She comes to me for advice.  I share with her what I know.  We pray together.  In fact, I pray for her all the time.  She is awesome.  And, she is beautiful.  But like most of us, sometimes, she has a hard time believing it. 
     There's one day in particular that stands out in my mind between my friend and me.  I had just recently returned from a summer abroad in Europe, and I quite possibly consumed more pastries, pasta and gelato than I normally would here in the States.  Needless to say, I put on a few pounds.  Determined to get the extra weight off, I started a strict diet of protein, veggies, and carb-friendly meal bars (yuck).  I wanted to build my running mileage back up to where it had been before my travels, and I figured this diet of mine was the quickest way to do it. Then there was the fact that I returned home to a bridesmaid dress that had once fit perfectly and now wouldn't zip; and the wedding just so happened to be the following weekend! Yikes... (that's another story-- but yeah, we made it work; didn't we Michelle!) 
     So as I was saying,... this one particular day, I was eating my 'cardboard' meal bar and my friend asks why I'm eating this piece of junk.  I'm going on about wanting to lose a few pounds and improve on my running time, tone up a bit, yadda yadda, and she's looking at me like I'm out in left field.  I'm like, "you wouldn't understand, you're a skinny gut!", and she looks at me, with a hint of saddness in her eyes, that I'll never be able to forget.  She then tells me she had once been overweight and had struggled with an eating disorder throughout high school.  She says there were days when she would eat nothing more than cereal and water, while other days, she would binge and purge on boxes of cookies and bags of chips.  She explained that she would go to the gym and walk on the treadmill for hours at a time.  She admits that during this time, she dropped a lot of weight, but says she was plaiged with moodswings.  The smallest of things would make her angry, and she would, at times, shout out at the people she loved the most.  As she was telling me all of this, I asked her why she would do this to herself. She explained that when it come to herself, to be beautiful meant being skinny.  This made me sad; it still does when I think back to that conversation. 
     Since that day though, something has changed within me.  I've done some reevaluating, and was finally honest with myself about why I was freaking out about losing those extra 5 pounds I had acquired in Europe.  I was mad at myself for eating that croissant in Paris, disgusted with all the toast I had consumed in London, furious for indulging in that extra scoop of gelato in Rome.  But I've since come to realize just how silly I was being.  I had been associating beauty (or the lack thereof) with the extra 5 pounds staring back at me in the mirror.  True:  I had been taught the definition of true beauty (something that's found on the inside) throughout my childhood.  And for the most part, I understood it and believed it.  But there was still something ingrained within me that told myself I should look a certain way. 
     I would like to add though, how important I think it is to live a healthy lifestyle.  We should be making wise food choices everyday, in addition to being active.  And I think this is part of Godly living:  because "our body is God's temple". (1 Cor 6:19)  But when we begin obsessing over the scale-- or the mirror for that matter, that's a sign that we're attempting to find our identity in the world's perception of ourselves, rather than in Christ.

     This past weekend, my friend Carrie V. introduced me to a group of 10 girls with whom she attends church.  We had the opportunity to fellowship with one another, and I was encouraged to read their group study:  a book called "Perfectly Unique" by Annie Downs.  It explains how we are to glorify and praise God with our whole self, our whole body-- "from head to foot".  I've just finished the second chapter, so I've a little ways to go before I finish, but I can already tell you: so far, I like what I've read.  I encourage you to go buy this book, and read along with me.  There's a lot of girl-realted truth in there, something each of can relate to.
     As I sat there, enjoying my dinner at the Olive Garden, and getting to know each of the girls, I was overcome with appreciation for the magnificent craftsmanship of Our Creator.  Each of my new friends-- different in appearance and in personality.  Some shy, others who should consider a comedic profession. But each of them with one thing in common: glowing with love for Jesus, each beautiful.
     Coming from a girl who has a deep love for art:  all things Van Gogh, Monet, and Pollack-- I have to admit there is One Artist who surpasses them all.  Variations of hair textures (curly, straight, thick, fine) and eye colors; freckles, hawk noses and full lips; full-figured beauties and petite dolls, too: every last detail thought out by the One who made you.  The desires in your heart, your personaltiy quirks, even down to the way you laugh-- He designed every little detail.  He made only one of you.  You're one of a kind.  And if that doesn't make your heart flutter, hear this:  You were worth the work, and you were worth His time-- the Creator of the world, chose to create you.  You are special.  You are part of His plan.  And yes:  you are beautiful.  Accept it.  Live it.  Believe it.                     
    
                  

                         

"Bitter or Better"

     We've all had our feelings hurt. Our toes stepped on, our pride wounded. I bet you don't have a hard time thinking of a "friend" who's recently talked smack behind your back.  People have done us in, treated us wrong, acted unfairly.  In fact, you're just not sure you can let this one go without taking to Facebook and calling them out on it! That would serve them right, wouldn't it?

     Now, also tell me this... Just how many of us can say that we've never been the high tempered, sharp-tongued, toe stompee? Can you count on one hand the number of people you've whispered about, made fun of, or envied, in the past 24 hours alone? Whether you've said these things aloud to a friend or just thought them to yourself:  maybe about the co-worker who sits lazily at her desk while you work feverishly away at your keyboard ("having to take up her slack..."); or the classmate who just walked into the room wearing the new pair of boots you were so desperately hoping to buy (as you eye her up and down, then roll your eyes as she walks past).  Ouch. Truth smacks us hard in the face, doesn't it?  We've all been there, done that. 
     I think it's easy to, sometimes, call people out on their short-comings and keep a blind eye to our own.  Jesus says in Matthew 7 verses 3-4:  "Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother's eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye?  How can you say to your brother, 'Let me take the speck out of your eye', when all the time there is a plank in your own eye?"  Wow. This is powerful stuff.
     The reality is, we get angry.  And yes: there are times when we are justified in our anger.  We also get hurt.  We can't wrap our minds around the lies that our enemies tell about us, and it's painful.  But it's also inescapable-- it's in the world we live, and it's also in us.  "IT" is sin. We all fall short.  You've been wronged, but chances are you've wronged someone too.  Good thing we have a Savior that covers all that, isn't it? 
     So how do we cope with it all?  Where do we go from here?  Do we make up?  Do we stay mad forever?  Or do we sweep it under the rug, and pretend it all never happened?  Let's decide...
     The Bible says, "Do not let the sun go down on your anger." (Ephesians 4:26)  And personally, I believe these are words to live by (as is everything else God-breathed).  I can tell you from experience:  sometimes, it's hard to let stuff go.  There have been times when I've thought to myself-- "I cannot believe he did this to me".  Or, "she said what about me?" "How could she feel this way about me? I've always been so nice to her.".... you get the picture.  But I can also tell you firsthand, when your identity is found in Jesus (see my post: "Identity Crisis"), and you are striving to live like Him, you'll begin to look at things a lot differently.  Introducing:  forgiveness.   
     A few things regarding forgiveness: 

• It's important to note that in some instances, forgiveness isn't a one-time thing.  There are times when we've been so deeply hurt, that every day we have to say a prayer that God will heal our heart and take away the pain as well as the bitterness.      
• Secondly, I can't tell you how many times I've heard people say, "I'll forgive them when they ask me to."  HA!  That's a laugh.  Seriously, let me make this clear:  this does not exempt you from forgiving someone. Now, I'm not saying that you have to reconcile your relationship with them in every situation. There are times when we have to "come out and be separated" from people because of certain circumstances. But if we are unable to let go of the bitterness in our heart that's aimed at a person or persons, I have to believe we are missing something crucial.  Instead, we should really be praying for them. Praying that they'll come to know Jesus, the only One capable of changing the heart.  Matthew 5:44 "But I say to you, Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you".
• Which leads me to my final point:  if you've ever prayed for Jesus to forgive you, do you think He hesitates to do so?  This one's a no brainer.  Of course He doesn't.  So why on earth would we think we have the audacity to not do the same?  ..."Jesus, please forgive me,.. but Lord I just can't forgive them."  That's a no-go, jack. 

     If you take anything away from this post, let it be this:  we are called to be forgivers.  And I can justify saying this because followers of Christ are called to be like Christ.  If our identity is in Christ, we are called to live like Christ.  And Christ is a forgiver.  He is The Forgiver. 
     Also, if you're honest with yourself, I think you'd agree it's harder work being bitter than it is at feeling better.  There's a song by Matthew West that's really became a favorite of mine.  It says, "the prisoner that it really frees is you: forgiveness".  How true we will find this to be.  Take a listen; I think it will bless your heart.

 
     "Help me now to give what You gave to me: forgiveness."   May this forever be our prayer.  May this forever be our life.  One of forgiveness.  

Identity Crisis

     "Who are you?... hoo, hoo... hoo, hoo..."  Lyric from one of my favorite bands to date; question that many of us spend whole our lives hoping to one day answer.   

     Since returning to NYC for work on this year's Tribeca Film Festival, I've had to do some routine rearranging.  As Phillip said to me before I left, "we are creatures of habit. We like routine, and if we have to change our daily routine we have worked so hard to perfect, we find it hard to function".  Well I found ole' Phil to be right on this, as I have been a little perturbed to be out of my normal routine, going days in between my runs, sleeping less than my normal 8 hours a night, and "not having enough time" for my daily morning Bible study.  It's funny:  I've always considered myself to be a free spirit of sorts, going with the flow of things, chill as a cucumber.  And although this is how I am for the most part, I too, am a creature of habit.

     So as I was saying,... I've done some routine rearranging.  And guess what:  I am still breathing.  The world hasn't ended.  All is well.  I have decided to go on daily walks after lunch, use the first 20 minutes at my desk for Bible study in the mornings, and although it's not my normal routine, I'm adjusting to what works for me, and it's going great!
     Which brings me to the reason for my post:  today, while working at my desk, I listened to an online sermon from Pastor Mark Driscoll with Mars Hill Church.  (you can find a list of sermons, daily devotions, and other resources here.)  It was from his new sermon series covering the book of Ephesians, titled: "Who Do You Think You Are".  In the first part of the series, Pastor Mark discusses who we are as followers of Jesus:  "I Am ______."  This message spoke to me in so many ways.  Key points I took from the lesson: 

• Your identity is received NOT achieved:  meaning you can't earn salvation.  It is by "grace alone that you are saved".  In short, you can't save yourself.
• Your identity is NOT found in IDOLS:  (Items, Duties, Others, Longings, Sufferings)  So many times we try to find our identity in the clothes we wear, the jobs we work, the acceptance of others, the hopes of better tomorrows, and the heartaches of our yesterdays.  But all these things are lies and they ultimately fail us.  Identity is in Christ, not in you, not in idols.

     If you have some time-- better yet, make time (while answering your emails, or during your morning jog <there's an app for that-- "Mars Hill">) to listen to this sermon. "Click Here". 
     Pastor Mark ends the lesson with a statement that really resonated within me:  "on our deathbed, all that will matter to us is Jesus, and people."  We won't care about the trophies we won, the car we drove, the shoes we wore.  It'll be about the relationships we built-- the "I love you's" we said-- the acts of kindness we performed, all in the name of Jesus:  I'd like to think those are the things I'll remember as I take my last breath.
     Stop searching for yourself.  If you know Jesus, you're already found.  You have purpose.

~ Have a great day, friends.  And thank you, Phillip, for introducing me to this wonderful study tool.

Times, they are a changin'...

     So, it's been a while since I've checked in, partly due to the fact I've been spending the majority of my time away from the computer and with a certain S.O.S., not to mention the little fact that mr. Dell sort of kicked the can. The holidays were my favorite ever this past year, and my 2013 has gotten off to a great start!
       It might surprise you to learn that a couple of my challenges for the year have been altered.  I chose to do this for a few reasons, but ultimately because I feel that God is working on me: better preparing me to go out and share His Son with the world, whether it be in the work place, community, or with new friends.  So a revised list of the "5" is as follows...

1.)  run a half-marathon -  I've chosen my race and am running towards this goal!

 

2.)  read the Bible in its' entirety - forever in the works, as I've learned that studying the Word is far more crucial than just reading it... which is why I'm quitting the timeline

 

3.)  make a thus-far (scrapbook) of my life -  still very much hoping to accomplish this, although I'm considering changing "scrapbook" to "picture album"...

 

4.)  select and read 50 of the "100 greatest novels of all time-  this one probably isn't going to happen and I've come to accept that.  Although I enjoy a good novel,  I've recently found that I'm enjoying and craving "other" books instead!  That being said, I now have a new #4.

 

4.)  continue reading books that will help me strive to live more like Jesus

- "Multiply", by Frances Chan

- "Subversive Kingdom", by Ed Stetzer

- "Blue Like Jazz", by Donald Miller

- "Follow Me", by David Platt (just starting this one! Thank you Phillip!)

 

5.)  journey to the remaining states I've yet to visit - I'm getting ready to cross one off the list in a few short weeks!  It's a year for adventure: of all sorts!

 

 





Thanks Giving...

     A little over a month has passed since I wrote last, and boy has there been a lot to happen since the start of my 25th year of life.  I'm home for the holidays, enjoying time with my family and friends, and it feels great to partake in a bit of  "r&r".
     After making my narrow escape from the wrath of hurricane Sandy,  I went straight to work on my beloved CMA Awards show in Nashville.  It felt great to be back working with my "adorable" CMA family (Carrie P. and Traci J. among my other wonderful "brothers and seesters"), and the show was stellar.
     Then, after 'wrapping' (ha, get it....) the CMA's, we dove headfirst into the holidays, taping "A Country Christmas", set to air in December, along with some pretty adorable little "elves" that added many a magical moment to the show.

      As for that list of "fabulous 5 challenges" I'm working towards, a progress report of such is as follows:

1. run a half-marathon - my "training" has began, but this one is still very much in the works...
2. read the Bible through in it's entirety - thanks to a very special someone, I now have a reading plan to follow, and am enjoying my study time thoroughly!
3. make a thus-far scrapbook of my life - I've bought the paper!
4. select/read 50 of the "100 greatest novels" of all time - just another reason to keep visiting bookstores... 'the end' is near for novel #2.
5. journey to the remaining states I've yet to visit - none added to the list just yet, but the mapping/planning has begun!

      You can see, I've a ways to go, but I'm excited for the 11 months to come!  Because as we know, "life's a journey, not a destination".
      Finally, a week has passed since my mega-consumption of turkey and dressing, but "thank you's" to the Lord continue to go up in abundance, as I consider all my blessings just for the past year alone!  A few of my reasons to give thanks this Thanksgiving:

One really adorable little bundle of joy...
 

a second chance, a new tradition...

and numerous opportunities to share with others about my relationship with the Three in One,... in addition to many others including, but not limited to:  life altering experiences (Tribeca Film Fest!), new beginnings (Michelle and Jacob, Sarah and Marcus), abrupt cross-country road trips, an Olympic-filled summer, gelato in Roma', meeting new friends (Noel and Austin, Allison, Rachel, and the "Three Amigos"), catching up with old friends (Carrie V!, Sarah L., the list goes on), and finally, for plans that turn out to be dead-ends... all of which I am beyond thankful.  I can only describe it as "grace".

     I hope you each had a blessed Thanksgiving holiday.  May we never fail to give thanks to the One who grants us so much.  Let us start by remembering the "Reason for the season"...         

   
    

And so, it begins...

     

     So here's the deal:  I was recently inspired by a friend and fellow blogger (insert the wonderful, "Noel" here) who embarked on a really cool year-long challenge, to complete a list of 30 challenges before turning 30 next month.  <Check out her really awesome and inspiring blog, here.> Her list includes fun to-do's like, "raising a basil plant named Kyle", to more hard-core challenges such as "writing and directing her own short film and submitting it to a film festival".  Since joining her blog, I've been hooked on the idea of making my own special list of year-long challenges.  I've always loved the idea of the so-called "bucket list", but feel that an on-going list of yearly challenges (not resolutions) seems more appropriate for "living in the moment". After all, our bucket lists can tend to get pretty long at some point, and we may find that if we keep adding to that same list- year after year, never actually doing any of the things we hope to "someday" do, we'll be ready to 'kick the bucket' before those dreams and wishes have been fulfilled!
     Now, you may be wondering what the difference is between yearly challenges such as these, and the more infamously known: New Years Resolutions.  I like to think of it like this... Ten years from now, when I look back at a specific milestone in my life, be it turning age 25, 30, 50, or 80, I'll remember what wonderful experiences I had then, and which goals I accomplished during that time.  Whereas I find that many times, my New Years Resolutions tend to become redundant (lose 10 pounds, exercise everyday, etc) and fade into an after-thought by the time February rolls around!
     And so, it begins-- I crossed the big 2-5 milestone of my life yesterday, and I have chosen 5 special challenges of my own for my 25th year!  But before I begin, I would just like to say that my little list of 5 challenges are minuscule compared to the 30 life-changing challenges of my friend, Noel.  I owe her a heartfelt "thank you" for inspiring me to embark on a journey of lifelong challenges for myself!  May we each live each day to its fullest, each year at its finest, living in each moment fearless and free... and happy as can be!  

~Fab "5" of My 25th~

1. run a half-marathon (and a full one if I'm feeling rough, tough and ready... which is not likely.)
2. read the Bible through, in its' entirety (because I find something new, Every. Single. Time.)
3. make a "thus-far" scrapbook of my life (complete with photos, newspaper clippings, etc)
4. select/ read 50 of the "100 greatest novels of all time"(Austen, Dumas, Steinbeck- the works!)
   
5. journey to the remaining states I've yet to visit (I'm half-way there!)

Let the fun begin!  Here's to a wonderful 25th year. 

A picture is worth a thousand words...

     I'm back working in the Big Apple this week, which could be why my 'Instagram' feed is overflowing with photos.  I have recently became a little obsessed with this app and am literally taking pictures of just about everything lately.  Here are a few fun ones I've taken, during this go-around in the Concrete Jungle. 

<3 <3 <3

This pretty much sums it up; I love this place.

"keep the Son in your eyes"...

    

     The past week goes down as one of the happiest of my life. There are many reasons why, but I will only share one of them today.  I received an email from a very precious friend of mine that truly blessed my heart.  I met Sam and his beautiful (both, inside and out) wife, Cindy, while serving on the program in London this past summer.  You know how there are times in life, when it's evident that God put a person in your path?... well, this was one of those times for me. There were several instances, while chatting over coffee or pizza, that the conversation would turn to Christ.  We had so many wonderful conversations about Him; thinking back to them still brings a smile to my face.  The connection I felt with Sam and Cindy was instantaneous; and their advice-- life changing.
      Since returning home from London, we've continued to stay in touch through Facebook/email, due to us living in different states.  And those online chats are as dear to my heart, as the conversations we had talking face to face.  I wanted to take a moment and share just what I'm talking about.... the email from my God-given friends, ended with this beautiful conclusion:

"keep the Son in your eyes".  

     

     If I could express through my writing, the happiness I felt when I read this; so simple, yet so huge-- such a great reminder; words to live by!

     So to Sam and Cyndi: thank you. Thank you for your friendship, and thank you for your love.  The influence you have made on my life, I will cherish, always.  It's evident the Son is in your eyes, as well as in your hearts, by the life you lead.
     I strive to live a life, where that may be said of me.         

HE loves me anyway.

     Good morning, and happy Thursday!  Only one day until TG(oodness)IF-- get excited!  : )

     Soooo, I was doing some "Pinteresting" a couple nights ago and happened to run across a photo that caught my eye.  The picture itself was beautiful-- but what touched my heart was the words...
  

 Click here for more inspirational photos.

     Wherever you are on this Thursday-- in whichever situation you're in; whether you're feeling sad, lonely or lost-- I pray that you'll find peace in knowing there is a God who loves you more than you can fathom.  No matter our backgrounds or our failures,  He loves despite of it all.  Whatever you're doing at this minute, stop-- take a few minutes for yourself, and listen to the song below by Sidewalk Prophets.  You may already know it, but I encourage you to listen again.  Each time I hear it, my heart is flooded with peace and joy.  

"You Love Me Anyway"

"i am the nail in Your wrist, but You love me anyway.

i am the sweat from Your brow, but You love me anyway.

i am the nail in Your wrist, but You love me anyway.

And i am Judas' kiss, but You love me anyway..."

     He loves you.  Fall into the arms of Christ and accept His grace.  He will never leave your side.  He's the One friend you can always count on.  Even when you fail Him, He will still be there.  He loves you anyway... always and forever. 

I love elephants.

     It's a fact:  I love elephants.  I like the color black.  And I have a thing for four-leaf clovers.  But I seriously adore these massive four-legged, trunk-laden beauties.
     One of my favorite memories from grammar school was from the time my fourth grade class took a field trip to the zoo. Of all the animals there, my favorite was the elephant. Which is why I jumped at the chance to climb atop one of the giant creatures for a ride, (led by a guide, of course). I straddled her best I could with my short little legs and held on tight. And it was nothing short of incredible. Big black eyes, smooth grey skin, a sweet and gentle nature; she was absolutely beautiful. As the guide led us around the circular path, I remember leaning down to whisper into one of her-- the elephant's, not the guide's-- massive ears. Whether or not she heard or understood me, I didn't care. I fell in love with her right then and there. ...and for a minute, she was my Rosey.
     Which, you might guess, leads me into the topic of my list of "favorite things" for the week!  If you've read the book or seen the movie, you probably picked up on my "Rosie" reference. 

"Water for Elephants" is one of my all-time favorites. 

If you've seen the movie- read the book. If you've read the book- see the movie.

I love them both.

Next favorite: the adorable little Elephant House Cafe.

If I'm in Edinburgh, Scotland... you better believe I'm here!  Not only is the food delicious, but the place is filled with all sorts of little elephant nick-knacks, big and small, from all over the world!  And did I mention, it's know as the "birthplace of Harry Potter"?! Whattttt?.. click on the link above to check it out. :)

And lastly: the adorable little tokens that sparked the idea for this post: my new elephant earrings!

My gorgeous, fashion-savvy, doll-face of a friend, Kayte G., passed these beauties on to me after I made quite the fuss about them!  Bless her, she took them right out of her ears, and handed them over... love her! 

Best early birthday present ever... I think so.  :)

Fall Fashion Favorites...

     And speaking of favorite things (see post below)...  I haven't done one of my "fashion" posts in quite a while, but this year's fall trends have me chompin' at the bit and ready to write!  As someone who has an undying love for neutrals (blacks and browns make up the majority of my closet), this season's bold colors and wild prints have me reevaluating, and going ga-ga,(and no, I don't mean like Lady G). 
     Not that I'm an expert-- (I'm no Stacey London), and I ultimately believe that every person should wear what they like and feel comfortable in (look at K-Stew: ratty t-shirt and jeans, and I think, still so fashion-savvy)-- but I've picked a few of my favorite 2012 fall fashion trends and made them my own. By adding some new pieces to basics I already had (like an off-white button up shirt), I also made for a budget-friendly shopping spree!  And so... I thought I'd share them with you! :)

Favorite Fall Trend #1:  Mismatched pops of color!

The pink and orange in this necklace, paired with a mustard cardigan, reinvents the simple off-white

button-up blouse.

 

Favorite Fall Trend #2:  Animal Prints!

 

Pairing black and cream leopard-print shorts with complimentary colors makes this "wild" trend wearable.

Fall Fashion Trend #3:  Mix-&-Matched Patterns!

Mix patterns, like stripes and polka-dots, for an outfit that's all your own. 

(But keep in mind that matching up your colors <navy and green striped cardi + navy dots up top/green dots on bottom> is key to making your outfit look fresh and well put-together!) 

Happy fall y'all!

 

"these are a few of my favorite things..."

     Just a few tid-bits that have recently brought some joy to my already sunny-filled days........

Movie: "The Vow"

Music: "Of Monsters and Men"

(U.S. tour dates just released!)

 New books!

Fall mornings and coffee on the porch.

~These are just a few of my favorite things.~

"Happy Anniversary... to me". (beware, this one's a book)

     One year ago today,  I embarked on a new journey:  my own personal "pursuit of happiness".  I decided it was time to take a leap of faith and leave my full-time news producing job and go forth into, what I like to call, "land of the unknown". 

       Straight out of college, I had been blessed with the opportunity to work as an associate producer at the local NBC affiliate station near my hometown.  I had interned there the semester before graduating, and was excited to be taking the first real step towards my career in journalism.  I started out as an "on-call" AP, with an ever-changing schedule, sometimes working mornings, other times evenings, and yes, even the occasional exhausting overnight shift.  I was bound and determined to show my boss how much I wanted to be there, and to learn as much as I could in all areas of the newsroom.  Thankfully, my hard work paid off, and within my first few months of being hired, I was promoted from an "on-call" AP to... "morning show AP", which is where I ultimately wanted to be all along, considering my love of morning shows! (...Today Show, anyone?)  Yes, the position came with a hard-hitting, punch-in-the-gut schedule (Wednesday through Friday, I clocked in at midnight, and weekends- an early 3a.m. start to my day), but I ultimately fell in love with more laid-back approach of the morning newscast.  During this time, my personal life was on hiatus.  I hardly had the chance to see my family, let alone my friends, and as someone that literally thrives on sunshine, I had to black out my bedroom windows at an attempt to sleep during the day.  Still, I tried to keep up with my normal routines, meeting my best friend for the occasional yawn-filled breakfast after work, going for daily half-hearted runs, and sitting through Sunday sermons, "Amen's" jolting me awake, as I fought to keep my eyes open.  Don't get me wrong, I enjoyed my job at the station, and the people I worked with became friends whom I still cherish today.  But it was on the drive home one morning, that I asked myself this question: "Casey, where are you headed and what's your next step at getting there?"  Driving down the interstate that morning, I deliberated for my answer.  Since childhood, I had dreamed of growing up and finding not only a job and career that I was passionate about, but a life that I was in love with.  So, in that car, it was then and there that I decided to take the next step on my life journey... to take a chance and "leap", so to speak.  A few weeks later-- one year since my first day at the news station, I nervously put in my two-weeks notice. 
     New York City has been on my life radar as far back as I can remember.  I have longed to live and work in the "Concrete Jungle" from the first time I realized the location of "Studio 1A at Rockefeller Plaza".  So, at 23 years old, I decided that's where I was headed. 
     To catch you up, my junior year of college, I volunteered for my first freelance production job, assisting in the talent department  for the CMA (Country music) Awards show.  I worked as many hours as possible, and the following year I was invited to work the show again, and this time on payroll!  It was this go-around that I began to meet people and form friendships, and with much thanks to the Lord above-- I learned the meaning of "networking".  I fell in love with the world of event production, and though I still had (and still have) a passion for news and political journalism, I dreamed of an opportunity  to be part of some of the most well-known and beloved events and awards shows known to man. While working an event in NYC (thanks to my wonderful friend Carrie P, whom I truly owe a lot to), I had the pleasure of meeting other freelance production workers, and I expressed my dream of living and working in the city.  Many of them offered words of encouragement: "now is the time to go for it!", "do it while you're young", "life's all about taking chances and going for your dreams!"-- and said that if I ever decided to make the move, to let them know and they would keep me in the loop on upcoming opportunities for work.  I kept this in the back of my mind, and after deciding to leave the news station and take the next step in my career, I began looking for housing in NY. 
     I prayed and prayed that God would put the perfect opportunity before me, so when an old high school friend emailed me saying she was living in NY and would be happy for me to room with her, I  jumped at the offer without hesitation.  I gave my two-weeks notice, thanking my co-workers and peers for every opportunity and expressing how much I had learned from and loved them all, and shed many tears in the process of saying "good-bye".  They gave me their good graces, wishing me all the best in my endeavors, and reassured me if things didn't work out, that I'd always have a place to come back to, which I was so grateful for.
     My last day at the station was a memorable one: September 11, 2011-- the ten year anniversary of the 9/11 terrorist attacks.  After my last morning newscast, I sat at my desk watching footage of the memorial ceremony taking place at Ground Zero.  They were unveiling the new 9/11 memorial, and I thought to myself, "I'll get to visit there and pay my respects in just a few days."  I pulled up my email to write a few personal "good-byes" and "thank yous", and noticed a message from my friend and soon-to-be new roomy.  She was telling me, things had not worked out and unfortunately my room had fallen through!  I was in shock.  There, during the last few minutes on the final day at my job, I found out that my "plan" had been thrown out like a "what was new, is now old" news script.  What was I going to do?  Where was I going to go?  God help me.
     After leaving the station, I called my mom and told her the news, sobbing hysterically into the phone.  She said these simple words that resonated within my heart, and still do even now: "Casey, has God ever let you down before?"  Even at that moment when it felt like all hope was lost, I knew the answer was "no".  So I dried it up and began praying out loud in my car.  "Please Jesus, I don't know what I'm going to do. I need your help."  I was already booked to work two events (the first in NY, the second in D.C.) the upcoming week, so I decided to fly up to NY, sleep on my friend's couch, work the event, take the train down to D.C.- stay with another friend who lived there, then fly home. So that's what I did.  I worked the Andrea Bocceli concert, which was live (and underneath the stars) in Central Park- a sight to and sound to behold, then went on to work the Nickelodeon's "World-Wide Day of Play" in front of the White House!  And I had the chance to connect with two old friends (one in NY (thank you Leslie!), the other in D.C. (love you Rachael!)). 
     Afterwards, I flew home to TN and booked any event or show offered to me, but I still hadn't given up on making it to and settling down in Manhattan.  A few weeks later, I flew to LA and worked the Nickelodeon HALO Awards show, where I met an actress/dancer who was looking to sublease her NY apartment for 3 months because she had booked a gig on a cruise ship.  Perfect!  I was sold.  I told her I was interested, and that was that.  I didn't think twice about it.  I packed up my things and flew back to NY.  And guess what:  it was a no-go.  Yep... I'm not making this up.  Her show had fallen through, and it turned out she wouldn't be subleasing her room after all (which of course wasn't her fault- she was an absolute sweetheart). 
     It was then that I found myself at the end of my rope.  I was upset, I was mad.  Why was this happening?  Just when I thought a door was opening- BOOM- it shut in my face.  So what else was I to do but hop a plane back home. 
     I like to think this is the exact spot in my life where I found myself most vulnerable and willing to let go and give in to the Father.  One night not long after my second defeat, I found myself sitting in my bedroom floor, tears streaming down my face, pouring over my Bible, looking for any sign of comfort, an answer.  Why had my plan fallen through- not once, but twice?  I had always put God first, or so I though, and doesn't the Bible say when you do that, "He will give you the desires of your heart"?  Wasn't my deepest desire to live and work in NY?  ...and then, there was the answer to my question.  When I started putting my goal above the will of Christ-- seeking my dream of the city, more than seeking His will for my life, I knew those supposedly "open doors" were shut by Him, for me.  And it was in that exact spot that I thanked him for those closed doors, and began praying that "His will be done, not mine".
     I went to bed that night with more peace about where I was in my life, than I did on those nights that I thought I had a plan.  There is no peace like His peace.  I didn't worry what the next day would bring, or the next month for that matter.  I knew I was in His arms, and that He would not only guide, but carry me.
     A few short days later, I began receiving emails from some of my freelance networks: there was an event going on in Nashville, another in D.C., two events in NY; would I be interested?  I happily obliged, and flew in to work the shows, then flew back home a few days later.  The holidays approached and in December, I flew to D.C. to work the lighting of the National Christmas Tree, then back home to spend Christmas with my family.  I had the best of both worlds, really.  I got to travel, I got to do a job that I loved, I got to see my family and my friends.  I had time to join my church choir (something I had wanted to do for a very long time) and help with Sunday school.  And I had never been happier. 
     Shortly after New Year's I received an email that would truly change my life.  It was from a girl in NY, who works in the travel department for the Tribeca Film Festival (insert "Carrie V" here- you are truly wonderful!) and she wondered if I'd be interested in working the festival?  I would have to work at the NY office for two months in the spring.  I had been referred to her by a mutual friend and freelance production co-worker, and she had heard I was living in the city.  I told her about my crazy whirlwind of a ride, the two housing opportunities that had fallen through, but that I would definitely be interested if I could find a place to stay.  I began to pray that only if it was His will for me to work the festival, that things should fall into place.  And what do you know... a family friend of mine had a niece (Noel, you rock) who would rent out her loft to me for the two-month stint.  I took the job, went to NY and stayed with my new short-term roomy, and things could not have been more perfect.  I had the time of my life working Tribeca with Carrie V., and staying with Noel, and I knew God presented the perfect opportunity to me; an opportunity to get to experience living and working in the city, even if it was only for a little while. 
     But before heading to Tribeca, I had another little God-given surprise!  I booked an event out in Las Vegas, and made the decision (one that had many people thinking I had lost my mind) to drive cross-country for the trip.  But considering that "to see the Grand Canyon" was on the list of my "2012 New Year's Resolutions", I knew that God had provided me with this chance.  And yes- it was worth every minute and every mile in that car.  
      Moving on to Tribeca,... during this time, I received news that I would get to go back to London for the summer!  I had been selected to serve as a student mentor/RA for the study abroad program I had studied with back in college.  My freelance schedule allowed for me to be gone 6 weeks,.. yet another God-given opportunity.  
      Fast-forward to today:  it has been one year ago today, that I set out on my own personal pursuit of happiness.  As I sit here and write this, and think about the journey I've been on, just in the past year-- I can do nothing but smile.  Yes, I have gone through valleys, but the view from the mountain-tops made this year-long trip worthwhile.  I wouldn't trade a single day.  Since taking that leap-of-faith a year ago, I never would have guessed I'd have the opportunity to travel for work in NY, DC, LA, Vegas, then across the pond to London (be part of the Olympic summer games), as well as visit Paris, Scotland and Rome.  And just last week, I flew back to LA to work the MTV "VMA's", and also had the chance to visit with a friend (I love you, Karen!) and my wonderful family members who live there.
     Since that night I sat crying on my bedroom floor, God has done a number on my heart.  As much as I thought I had trusted Him before, I have found that I have complete trust in Him today.  Last night during my Bible study, He (yet again) amazed me with a verse I happened to stumble upon.  I know without a doubt, that He pointed me to that page, to that exact verse, a present just for me.  It read:

"Many are the plans in a man's heart, but it is the Lord's purpose that prevails." - Proverbs 19:21

     I found this verse to be extremely fitting for this anniversary of mine, and I thanked Him for His beautiful words of wisdom.  If there's one lesson I have learned from this past year, it is this:  we might think we have a plan as to where we're headed, but if we lose sight of the "North Star" and forget to use our Bible as our road map through life's journey, it's then that we get off track. 

     Finally to end (and if you've stayed with me this long- thank you, you're almost there)... I now know that what I thought to be my heart's deepest desire (to live and work in NYC) is only a dream and a passion.  It turns out, He knows us better than we know ourselves. For my love of continuous travel is far more deep than setting up camp full-time in Manhattan... for now, anyways.  And God knows that, which is why His plans for me are far better than my plans for myself!  

     The Bible reads, "Delight yourself in the LORD, and he will give you the desires of your heart."  May we never forget, the second half of this verse is not complete without the first: "Delight yourself in the Lord..."  For it is Him who should be our hearts deepest desire.  

     HE is the deepest desire of my heart.  His will for my life, is my heart's desire.  I long to live a life that brings Him glory, not me. And I have found my "pursuit of happiness" in Him. "Happy anniversary", to me.  

    *A funny note:  I took the photo (up top) of a sunset and added the text ("Enjoy the Journey") with a photo editing program several months ago.  So you can imagine my delight when, just days ago, while in LA, I was online and found this necklace (above) at a little store near my hometown!  Thank you Michelle for saving it for me, and thank you Courtney for purchasing it for me, until I could fly home to get it!  

It's perfect. :)

           

one "Olympic" summer

     Six weeks abroad... need I say more?  From London to Paris, to Scotland and Rome, this has been one Olympic-sized (and filled) summer that I'll never forget!  As you know (from a few posts ago), I was in London working with the same study-abroad program that I had studied with while in college.  Our group consisted of 100+ students and faculty, each eager to experience everything the city of London had to offer.  For the first three weeks we were there, the city had been prepping for, what else but, the 2012 Olympic summer games. Honestly, as much as I was excited for the games to begin, I was also expecting the worst:  super crowded (not to mention hot and smelly) tube lines, tourist filled streets, angry locals... one big hot mess.  However, to say that London pulled off this great feat as gracefully as such a city could, would be an understatement.  From my perspective and experience, London proved to be an A-list host city, stepping up to the plate and knocking it way out of the park.  Yes: there were loads of people. And true: the line to get into Victoria Park (right next to Olympic Park) to catch the Opening Ceremony was insanely long. But being witness to such an event, better yet, being a part of it... it's still inconceivable to me.  Never, in a million years, did I imagine I'd get to experience something as surreal as the summer Olympics, and in London, England of all places!  Definitely what I consider, the "chance of a lifetime".

     Of the numerous Olympic events set to take place, my love for running helped to determine the one event I could not miss:  the Women's Marathon.  My friend Allison and I (above)-- love her), along with other students and professors as company, made our way to St. Paul's Cathedral, where the runners would pass three times during the 26-mile race. As the rain began to fall, (as it often does in London), we huddled together under one umbrella- (apparently a funny sight to behold from the looks of passersby) while drinking coffee and hot chocolate, and painted our faces red, white and blue, anticipation growing each minute as the start of the race drew nearer.  Finally we got word the runners were off, and as the rain pounded harder, so did our hearts.  Twenty-seven minutes in, and there they were.  Bodies of steel, drenched in rain and sweat, making their way around the greatest city in the world: lap 1.

  And as fast as they came,.. they went... and as they went,.. we waited.  Until lap 2!  And then, lap 3... rain finally subsiding as pure golden sunlight streamed through the clouds welcoming the ladies to the near end of their exhausting challenge.  All in all, it was awesome.  And that's all there is to say about that.

 ************

     From London, I traveled all by my lonesome to a city I have dreamed of visiting long before watching "Eat, Pray, Love":  beautiful and delicious Rome, Italy.  Gelato, spaghetti, Spanish Steps and gladiators... one step off the train and I am,.. what we shall say, "Io sono l'amore!"  I journeyed out into the streets, wound down alleyways, and took in every little nook and cranny I could find.  And before "day 1 in Rome" came to an end, I found myself at the famous Trevi Fountain, penny flying over my shoulder, wishing desperately to return someday.

 *************

It's a period of my life that I could write a book about, but I will come to a close for now.  So to end.....

    ...In a way, I'd like to think I took home the gold... golden memories, of new friends and exciting adventures, I'll cherish until my "games" are over and I take my victory lap home.