Christmas Excitement...

It seems like these past couple of weeks have just been one big blur filled with food, family, tons of gifts, and plenty of excitement. 

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We went to look at some pretty lights. 

Santa brought me plenty of gifts.

I got the chance to puppy sit this sweet baby. He was a Christmas gift for my sweet girls I used to babysit. 

We spent some time with family. 

And on Christmas morning we got some very exciting news... Benji's sister is pregnant! We have been waiting so long to hear this news, and we are thrilled! 

I hope everyone had a very, merry Christmas and took time to remember the real reason for the season! 

Day of Silence...

Prayers and love. 

-H.

On This Rainy Day...

As my sweet Abbie sleeps on the couch next to me and the candle is burning, I can't seem to stop thinking about those in Connecticut and the others all around America who went back to school today with a hole in their heart. I don't want to focus on the man who did this. I want to focus on the precious lives that were taken away far too soon and the teachers whose lives were taken away to protect their students. I think back to my experience in the classroom so far, and I know I would take a bullet for those babies any day. As sad as it as I find comfort in picturing them at the feet of Jesus listening to the stories and smiling so bright and beautiful. 

Praise the Lord that they are in the arms of the angels now. 

Please don't lose faith. God still reigns! 

Today...

Well, today has definitely been a day. I found out a few months ago that I was going to need gum surgery. I decided to wait until the semester was over to schedule the surgery. Today was the day of my surgery. Surprisingly, I've had only a little pain and some nausea from the medication. Other than that, this recovery has not been bad at all. Ice cream and potato soup aren't so bad either. 

However, today was a rough day for another reason that I'm sure y'all are familiar with. Today, a shooting took place in an elementary school in Connecticut. As a future teacher, this breaks my heart and scares me all at the same time. You would never think of a shooting happening in a kindergarten classroom. I am so hurt for the families, teachers, and children who will live with this pain forever. School should be a place of giggles and learning...never fear. I am praying that God will show his peace to all involved with this horrible situation. 

On a brighter note, I am so thankful for a teacher that made an impact on my life several years ago when I began babysitting her sweet daughters. I have loved seeing them grow up and greatly appreciate the many hours spent talking to her and figuring out that crazy part of life as a teenager. Today, she brought me such a special gift that has made this recovery process so much easier! I am so appreciative and thankful for her. I hope that I am half the mother, teacher, and friend that she is. 

Broke College Girl Christmas Gifts...

Today, I'm linking up with Meg and sharing with y'all a few ideas I have for gift giving this year. This year has been the first time I have not had a job since I was a junior in high school. I've always had a little change on the side. Well, your senior year in the teaching program is pretty tough, and I just knew I needed to focus on my work. (And it's paid off.) Anyways, thanks to a lack of money, the majority of my gifts will be handmade this year! Here's a few ideas I have...

I made this monogrammed burlap sign as a wedding gift in May. It's super easy and something that I'm considering doing again... or doing something very similar. 

I love making these kind of signs. Super simple, but so cute. 

I love these adorable ornaments. So, so easy. 

I would love to bust out my sewing machine again and make these pocket sweaters and t-shirts. 

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Anyways, those are just a few ideas. Any suggestions? 

Thankful Thursday...

Today, I'm thankful for the day God gave me yesterday. I had an awesome day, and I'd like to share it with y'all.

1. 

It was my last day in my practicum classroom. My first graders were awesome. They made me a sign and we had a little celebration filled with Christmas cakes, certifications, and a sweet book reading. My teacher and classroom grandma showered me with gifts and positive  feedback. As a true Southern girl, I gave them redneck wine glasses! I also made this for my teacher...

2. 

Then, to celebrate the end of the semester, my best friend and I went out to get some awesome Chinese food. Here's a picture of us from our last day of classroom activities before our internship...

3. 

After having a good end of the semester meeting with my professor, I had a one hour massage. It was heavenly. Benji gave me a gift certificate for my birthday (in July), and I finally used it. So, I have him to thank for that great part of my day. 

4. 

After my massage, it was church time. Our youth pastor gave an awesome sermon about the things we should really focus on during Christmas time: focusing on God's perfect timing and the gift instead of the gifts. I so needed to hear that message. 

5. 

Finally, I came home and watched the Duck Dynasty Christmas special. Uncle Si as an elf just made my day complete. 

Overall, yesterday was pretty awesome. I'm definitely thankful for it! 

My Christmas List...

December is here! It's so crazy how fast time flies by. Since it is December, I guess it's time to make it official by letting y'all know (and my Mama) what's on my Christmas list this year. 


Coffee Mug


Diamond and Pearl Earrings 


Nike Flex Run 


Burlap Toms


Portable iPhone charger 


Bath & Body Works Candle

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These are a few of my favorite things ;)