My cup is overflowing; There's no place like home.

It is such a blessing how much we've learned this year as newlyweds. I have never known the extent of what family really means; how valuable and wonderful they are even if at one point in my life, I thought they'd never stop embarrassing me, or reminding me to clean this or that. This year I have opened my eyes to the value of my family, the priceless tag that was seen by leaving them miles across the states. I have never valued the way my parents raised me until this year. I am so thankful for their guidance and discipline in order to make me understand the depth and importance of hard work, and loving others. 
I am so thankful to have grown up in a Christ believing home, and that each year I have gained more knowledge of Him, or really more of a desire to Glorify Him in everything I do.
I am blessed to have learned this year how Marriage was made to glorify Him. I've learned the importance of being humble and to examine our hearts daily when they are not in the right place.
I've learned that I am a better cook than I thought, and have fun making new and delicious meals for my husband with Love. I've learned I love baking more than cooking, because I have a pretty big sweet tooth, and you can't go wrong with blueberry cobbler, or chocolate chip cookies.  There has been simple things I've learned, but yet I know even they have contributed to my growth into a wife, and a woman of Christ. I know the stripping away of my family and friends from Springfield was one of the hardest things I have ever had to do, beside being away from Matt for a year before our wedding. But I am thankful. My cup couldn't be more full and overflowing than it is now. I am over-joyed by the supply of Love and friendship Matt and I have found here. I know God placed us in the perfect place for a year to learn to be our own family, and fully trust God in everyday. We have had so much support here, and from back home. I know God truly Loves us, because if He did not, He wouldn't have placed these people in our lives. What beautiful gifts He gives! What infinite Grace He will continue to pour on us!
This year has been amazing. I am so proud of Matt and I.
As for now, we are moving back to Springfield. We will be leaving close to the 18th of June. Matt has decided his time at Brooks is finished, and has been feeling this way for some time now. He is ready to spend time really working on his portfolio and preparing more for future assisting jobs with other photographers. Our hope is to move to Portland when the time is right; if there is a place for us there. But for now, we will be enjoying at the most, a year of family and friends at home.
Matthew has been such a great husband to me this past year. It will be a year for us July 18th!
He has been incredibly supportive and understanding to my struggles and fears and has done nothing less than believing in me every step of the way to get me to believe in myself. I am so happy to be with my best friend everyday, and still miss him when he leaves for his classes. He has been such a follower of Christ by being such a gentle and loving leader, protector and encourager. I couldn't have asked for a more soft hearted bearded green-eyed cute husband than the one I have. :)


I am very excited to be home with family. To be able to save money and feel more stable. We are so happy that we'll be able to enjoy the simplicity of eating dinner together with our family, and to have endless conversations face to face with our friends. 
I am so happy God has guided us to this. He truly knows and cares for us and our needs. He is the ultimate provider.


With utmost Love,
Lindsay

My first Blueberry Cobbler & Family.

My Nanaw would be proud. I should call and tell her!

The result...

This was my first try at a cobbler. Mmm, my grandma used to make some type of berry cobbler in the Summer when we would visit her at her house. She is a big part of my inspiration in becoming a hardworking, selfless homemaker. She will not let you get her anything, and will not sit down and be served until everyone else is. She is as sweet as all the sweets she makes. Making this made me miss her even more than I already do.

I decided around Christmas time this last year, that I wanted to write a book about my two grandmothers. I want to ask them every question about their childhoods, their recipes, and the smallest details that makes them so interesting and beautiful.

Maybe it's silly, but I feel very much like my Dad's Mother, Nanaw. Maybe it's the fact that I feel so inspired by her, to make things; food, quilts, and make people smile. She is so quiet and petite, but can be so goofy, like me.

I don't think it was until I married Matthew, that I realized how important family is. Even if they embarrassed you when you were little, or still do to this day, the Love and comfort my family has poured over me through all 22 years of my life is to be cherished and given back to them. I remember always feeling angry at my father for his strict pattern of discipline, and doubting that I'd ever be like him. Well, I'll tell you something, I only try to keep things clean and have the motivation to be organized in every part of my life because of the discipline he gave. And my Mother, so silly and sometimes, she'd embarrass me the most. But it is her heart for the Lord and for serving others that taught me how to give grace to others like Christ. I love my family, and I miss them so so much. I miss my sister, even though there was a period of time when we wouldn't talk unless we absolutely had to, and it would only last a minute or less. Her blood is in my blood, and she is my sister. Even though we don't understand each other sometimes, we've shared many laughs over the same things. I also believe she's taught me a lot as well, even if they were little bits and pieces, I know her guidance as an older sister to me, helped me grow into the woman I am today.

And then, there's the In-laws, who are no one to fear, but cherish as well. I remember before getting engaged to Matt, thinking of the Douglas' as my future family. I remember even in my worry of whether Matt and I would be together, I was always reassured by the type of family I would join. Loving, caring, supportive, funny, and intelligent. I am so glad to be a Douglas. I can't even imagine living a day not being a Douglas. Matt and his family have given me so much direction and encouragement. They have made so many things I would have thought impossible, possible for me.

I wish I could be surrounded by these people, and all of the beautiful friends we have met, old and new, year round.

I Love you, family.

I cannot wait for the day Matt and I will contribute to the family, but we've got a few years until that happens, hopefully. :)

Much Love&Peace,

Lindsay

p.s. There's a ladybug on our window. Hello Summer. :)

May means Summer is getting closer.

Soon, Matt and I will be heading back to the Midwest for a month to visit. Most importantly, this visit will contain two weddings, of four of our best friends. I cannot believe it's been 5 years or so since I met my friends from home. There has been so much growth and maturity, sometimes it feels odd to be where we are...most of us getting married!
It's amazing how much God loves us, how He intends for us to have community and friendship. 
You know how blessed you are when friendship has been fruitful. 


This is an early morning post, which I normally don't do. I'm trying my best to throw words together and trying to make sense.
But I am off to work now. Wish me a stress free work day, where the time flies by! :)


Love,
Lindsay

News: New ideas, & weddings.

So, I know I've been on a string of personal journal posts, but I'd like to begin posting lighter posts.
I may begin a new blog, where I have updates of only my Etsy, and creations. I've been thinking of giving my pieces a new name, something made up, simple and catchy. Though, I have not figured it out just yet, but I will keep you posted. I'd like it to be something simple, that doesn't take up much space, and 'youandmeloveandpeace' is quite long. I'd be keeping this blog my journal.


I've been inspired to expand my line of creations. My in laws gave me a sewing machine for my birthday this year, and I'm so excited to begin making new things! There is a local fabric store within walking distance of our apartment, and I can't wait to find some beautiful fabric to work with.
I would love to dive more into wedding accessories, create light, and delicate designs, including hair pieces, boutonnieres, etc. 
I'm making boutonnieres for my friend Shelby, who is having a DIY wedding. I cannot wait to create something beautiful for their wedding.
I'm also thinking a lot about pieces for babies. I want to embroider cute onesies, make headbands, and maybe even little blankets.
There's so much to create! I wish I had more space in the apartment, and more time to just create!


I hope your day is bright and beautiful.
Much love&peace,
Lindsay

Freedom.

Ever since I could remember, I've doubted myself, and my capabilities. I think it's been the lack of encouragement I feel I never received for various things. I find myself today, being unsure of myself and if someone interjects, I quickly have to ask for assurance. I've discovered that I can be an introvert and there are struggles that come along with it.

In order to free ourselves we have to recognize what is holding us back and even when we recognize our fears and worries that bind us, we can continue to let them bind us.

I've always been someone who feels the need to speak or write my feelings, thoughts, and fears in order to let them go. It's like a balloon eager and ready to burst.

All of our worries and fears were known before they transformed. Our Lord and Saviour, washes us clean and when we are weak, He is stronger. Where we are incomplete, He is fills us with His wholesome Love. When we lack knowledge and understanding, He lights a path and gives us His wisdom. When we are poor, He enriches us with life. When we weep, He comforts us.

He is the ultimate caregiver, and provider. There is nothing He cannot do. The practical things, the day to day struggles and worries, He knows and He provides. 

All He really asks is that we follow Him, seek Him, Love Him, and Love others.

In our times of darkness, He waits for us.

Because His Truth sets us free.

"It was for freedom that Christ set us free; therefore keep standing firm and do not be subject again to a yoke of slavery." Gal. 5:1

"And you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.." John 8:32

"I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made.." Psalm 139:14

"Not by might, nor by power, but by my spirit, saith the Lord of hosts" Zeph 4:6

Love&Peace,

Lindsay

Today.

I feel like I accomplished quit a bit. I picked up all my messes, which can pile up if I'm not careful. Sheesh. But, I do clean up..and when I do, I'm pretty meticulous..well, as much as I can be in our small studio apartment. You have to move this, and then that in order to get to that. Which is not my idea of an organized home. Our apartment hasn't really felt like a home, but I shouldn't be caught up in why this isn't like that, or we don't have enough of this. 
I think I've stepped back to look at the way I've been thinking lately. How my want for things overbears my need. I've been trying hard this week to have more control, and worry less of what I don't have.
If I really want to follow Christ, shouldn't I let all my belongings be His hands? Isn't my money and all of my possessions His? 
I've had a hard time the past month or two. Just thinking of old friends, and feeling a bit alone. I think having a lot of time by myself can lead me to want to go out and buy little things I want, when in reality we don't have a lot of money to be spending as a newlywed couple. It is time to be saving our money more than anything.
I miss out on the simple pleasures in life by feeling the need to go to a place I can buy something I like and be surrounded by people I don't know. 
The simple pleasures I think of are reading a book, and sipping tea or coffee, taking a walk or going to the park, writing in a journal, making to-do lists, making something for someone; sewing, embroidering, card-making.
I need to be doing more of these things with the time I have by myself.


I think my mind kind of exploded a bit...but I know it needed to.
More than anything, I want to want one thing. I want to live by the spirit, and not by the flesh. I want to walk closer with Thee.

“Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is there is freedom. And we, who with unveiled faces all reflect the Lords glory, are being transformed into his likeness with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord who is the Spirit.” 2 Corinthians 3:17

Be Thou my Vision, O Lord of my heart;
Naught be all else to me, save that Thou art
Thou my best Thought, by day or by night,
Waking or sleeping, Thy presence my light.

Be Thou my Wisdom, and Thou my true Word;
I ever with Thee and Thou with me, Lord;
Thou my great Father, I Thy true son;
Thou in me dwelling, and I with Thee one.

Be Thou my battle Shield, Sword for the fight;
Be Thou my Dignity, Thou my Delight;
Thou my soul’s Shelter, Thou my high Tower:
Raise Thou me heavenward, O Power of my power.

Riches I heed not, nor man’s empty praise,
Thou mine Inheritance, now and always:
Thou and Thou only, first in my heart,
High King of Heaven, my Treasure Thou art.

High King of Heaven, my victory won,
May I reach Heaven’s joys, O bright Heaven’s Sun!
Heart of my own heart, whatever befall,
Still be my Vision, O Ruler of all.


With Most Love&Peace,
L.

Individuals.

There's a comfort in being connected to others around us; others who we can find fellowship with. It makes sense that the more we are like Christ, and the more we seek to be more like Him, the more we are connected and comfortable with ourselves and with our lives.

I've been thinking about the individual relationships with Christ that we've come to know.

Though I've attended church my whole life, and have dedicated my life to Him, I don't think I truly connected the importance of individuality and fellowship with others of our relationship with Christ as a believer until I was about eighteen years old. I met a lot of friends at that age that I know have helped me to be where I am today spiritually and mentally. It was the first point in time I felt connected with others. The fun adventures and events we always got ourselves into, the long hours of conversation that made me think and made me develop a true sense of fellowship with other believers. I found sincerity in those conversations, in the friendships I still hold onto today. There was sincerity by being able to confess my faults and struggles and not feel judged. To feel vulnerable, but know that it is safe in their hands.

Our relationship with Christ is unique and unlike any other. We can feel safe in His arms with our struggles, trust Him with every decision, and let Him naturally guide us with His wisdom.

I very much like the unmistaken similarities that are seen between how we're to treat others with the life of Jesus. These "small" things can easily be missed; the blessing upon blessing that Christ gives if we don't believe in Him. And isn't that what we yearn for? That others know Him and experience that our spiritual death is so that He may live in us, and we may be fruitful and loving.

There are days when I spend a lot of time discouraged with myself, with my sin and insecurities. But Christ died so He could wash away that negativity that drags us into the dirt. He died so we would be free of ourselves and of all the worldly things that tie us down.

When we're having a bad day, how can we not come back to reality and be joyful of what has been done?

Let's choose to be new creations. Let's choose freedom in Christ.

Romans 8:1-4

"1There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. 2For the law of the Spirit of life has set you free in Christ Jesus from the law of sin and death. 3For God has done what the law, weakened by the flesh, could not do. By sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh and for sin, he condemned sin in the flesh, 4in order that the righteous requirement of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not according to the flesh but according to the Spirit."

With Utmost Love&Peace,

Lindsay

Golden Day.

I've had a lot of thoughts about my birthday this year. I know I've listed things I wouldn't mind having, but I know a birthday should be less about wanting and more about thankfulness.

I've been reminiscing on how far I've come as a woman, with my goals and growth. I think my 22nd birthday will be memorable to me because it's the first year apart from my close family, who are miles away, with the exception of my husband. It's golden to me because I've faced challenges that have given me growth this past year. I know I have developed into a responsible woman, I've been given a loving and committed husband, and I've taken on more challenges that only with Christ could I be where I am today.

I'm thankful that I've been provided for all these years by my parents and God's grace. My mother is a petite woman, but her heart is so strong and tender. I know Her love and commitment for the Lord led me to Christ and helped me to see the need to Love others and see the best in them. I am so thankful for her loving touch and the laughter we always share together.

I'm thankful for my Father, and the hard work he put into putting food on the table and providing a roof over our heads. I feel like I had a difficult time with him growing up, and that I never truly appreciated him like I should have. It took me a few years until now to finally be able to step back and see the whole picture and appreciate him. I love talking to my dad now and realizing the hard work that goes into having your own home and having bills to pay. It took me having a new load of responsibilities to appreciate my dad and all his hard work, and I'm happy that my eyes have been opened.

I wish to finish this tonight...but I will have to finish in the morning. My eyes are too too sleepy.

Until then....

love&peace,

Lindsay

A few of my favorite things: Birthday Edition part II.

My golden birthday is monday! Yes, that means I'm turning 22 on the 22nd. God has brought me to a new place spiritually, mentally, and physically this past year. Today Matt and I had a sunny picnic on the Mesa, and watched hundreds of sail boats from afar, laying on a blanket in the grass. It is one of my favorite things to lay around in the warmest part of the day on a blanket at the park...and what is better is having the view of the ocean at the same time. I hate to sound like I am bragging at all, really. I know it is snowing in Springfield, Missouri right now and my family and friends are yearning for sunshine and warmth.

We are very blessed to be living in such a beautiful place. I feel like this is the weather my body agrees with. The only thing missing is all of our family and friends from back home.

Below are a few things that have caught my eye.

Click on each image for source.

New swimsuit needed here. I've been looking for vintage inspired suits for this Summer. I like this one quite a lot. It's from the Gap, with matching top.

I've wanted a camelback water bottle with the pop up mouth valve for a long time...they're not as expensive as I thought they'd be. The chocolate color is my favorite. This is the 16 oz.

These sandals are prettier in person.

I went to Old Navy yesterday evening and found two pairs of jeans for $30.00 and they fit perfectly. I bought a pair of Gap jeans 3 months ago, and they now they have a huge hole in the knee...I wore them everyday because I've grown out of my other pairs. Pretty disappointed because they were part of a Christmas present from my family, and I don't want them to think their money went to waste, but I will definitely still wear them! That hole in the knee ain't nuthin!

I'm not a huge fan of leopard print, but I am when it is modest, like this grey toned leopard print cardigan from Old Navy. Printed cardigans are a new favorite of mine.

Someone posted a picture of this scarf from Anthropologie on their blog, and I just had to share it. Anthropologie does such a great job giving texture to their pieces.

Tokyo Milk perfume, French Kiss scent. I've been using "Daisy" from Marc Jacobs, which I will always love...but this line smells so very lovely.

Here's another cute bathing suit. From Target, with matching bottoms of course.

That is all I have for you today. I'm pretty tired now from laying in the sun for a couple of hours. Ohh what a hard day. ;)

Love&Peace,

Lindsay

Soon.

Thought I'd leave you some funnies... :)

Will be posting again soon!

As for me and my plans...I've

got work.

Later Gaters!

Love&Peace,

Lindsay