Bess' Bag

To My Valentine...

2012-02-14T16:49:00.000-08:00

Love Forever,

-Bess-

Crafty Valentine's Ideas

2012-02-12T15:08:00.000-08:00

Oh, my life is perpetually busy, & each & every Sunday evening I find myself in a fearful funk about returning to work on Monday {the work that follows me on through each weekend – no escaping it}. Cherish the time when you are young & free, ladies! I know I sound terribly pessimistic & all that jazzy blues… Anyhow [me trying to shake the feeling & return to utter trust that there’s a purpose for all this], I wanted to share these Valentine “Love Stories” I created out of wooden blocks of wood {shaped to look like solid little tomes}. I found ‘em at a thrift store for less than a $1, added scrapbook paper & embellishments, glittering ribbon to act as the page edges, & voila`! I rather like ‘em staggered on a table or straddling my mantle. Pray for me, dear sisters, Sunday evenings make me forget whose trip I’m on… & that I don’t walk alone. Forgive my complaining tongue, I promise to tuck it back into a smile next we meet. I can’t believe it’s almost the 2 year anniversary of Bess’ Bag! See ya soon! Happy early Val Day!

I am God’s girl & I will be content {oh, yeah, & hear me roar}!

Love,

-Bess-

P.S.: Here's some more Valentine make-it ideas...

{images via Pinterest (except for top 2)}

Song Love: "All This Time" by Britt Nicole

2012-02-04T14:41:00.000-08:00

This song reminds me of when my daddy passed... Whew! My "all this time" since has been tough & twisty-turn-y. My dad passed away when I was 13, & I accepted Jesus at 16. Looking back over my "father-less years" inbetween the loss of my amazing godly {the best} earthly father & trying to outrun my perfect heavenly One, I know my God was by my side - my running legs never fast enough to get away from Him. Now that I have my relationship with my heavenly Daddy, I still catch myself sometimes {now in my 20s}, when I'm walking through a rainy parking lot coming from a tough day at work, umbrella-in-hand, softly saying out loud, "daddy," still wanting both right next to me, but knowing that my God will carry me through the loneliness of my earthly father... His perfect love enough for me. Hope you enjoy the song...

Love,

-Bess-

Choose Life!

2012-01-22T13:00:00.000-08:00

Sanctity of Human Life Sunday, 2012

Facing a choice? Alone & afraid? Overwhelmed with grief & pain? There is hope, forgiveness, & a future in Christ.

Search for a Christian pregnancy resource center near you for help, to volunteer, or to donate. We can all make a difference!

"A person's a person, no matter how small."

-Dr. Suess, Horton Hears a Who!

Love & Prayers,

-Bess-

This Season

2012-01-16T11:49:00.000-08:00

Winter, that is winter-after-New-Year’s, can be such a long, dark, heart-tiring, finger-numbing time. Oh sure, it has high spots like friendly little snowflakes, steamy mugs of hot chocolate with floatable mini marshmallows, & frosty windowpanes that magically appear at dawn… but the highest high spot of Christmas has peaked & dwindled down to the lower midlands & valleys of the doldrums.

If there is in fact a time for everything (as Ecclesiastes 3:1-8 tells us; & I believe it, of course), then let January & February & the remains of this icebox-of-a-season be a time to pull ever closer to the warmth of our heavenly Father. Immerse yourself in the hardy coverings of prayer, reading His Word, & finding new ways to serve Him. Snow melts, barren soil eventually hosts green shoots that eventually bud, then blossom. This is not the end of the adventure, but the start. A season will not last forever.

Love,
-Bess-

12 Things Lists

2012-01-02T13:16:00.000-08:00

12 Things You Probably Don’t Know About Bess…

1. This February marks the 1^st full year of living by myself in my apartment + the 2 year anniversary of Bess’ Bag!

2. I’ve been on 9 airplane flights {all of which by myself}… one of which I didn’t think I’d survive. Nothing is more unnerving than being on a tiny craft, in the dark night sky, experiencing turbulence with a passenger screaming bloody murder behind you, & thunder clouds lighting up outside your window. Eeek!

3. I love pumpkin pie + the scent of it!

4. Most every New Year’s one of my resolutions is to “have adventures.” What can I say, I love ‘em!

5. Provided there’s no passengers, I always sing along with the car radio.

6. I wore a fancy ball gown on New Year’s Eve {only I was having a solo celebration @ my apartment – so no one got to see}. =)

7. I work in an inner city area.

8. {I hate to admit this.} I’ve never turned on the stove in my apartment! Yep, I’m not gifted in cookery.

9. I wear glasses!

10. I live literally less than a minute’s drive away from my church.

11. I bought a new {to me} car in December, cause my other one was duck taped together & considered “undrivable.” Ha! Undrivable, you say? I drove it!

12. At night when I can’t sleep, I like to think up the perfect baby names. =)

12 of my New Year’s Resolutions…

1. have adventures =)

2. eat breakfast daily

3. defeat worry

4. read, write, create more

5. take more walks, strolls, hikes

6. do new {good} things

7. take healthy chances & make sweet wishes – praying always

8. give more hugs

9. do my heavenly Daddy’s will & be a blessing in His Name

10. surprise people

11. continue to read the Word & memorize parts

12. give it all {what ifs, work, love, all the in-between} over to my Lord & leave it in His great hands

12 Things to Remember in 2012…

1. You are beautiful. God’s the best artist & your manufacturer… handmade with love & care.

2. You don’t have to have a boyfriend to feel happy & fulfilled. You do have to have a relationship with Jesus.

3. If you have accepted Jesus as your Savior, all your sins have been forgiven & you are brand new.

4. Be full of truth.

5. Physical intimacy is worth the wait… not to mention God’s plan.

6. Be careful what you let your mind dwell on… make it pure & God pleasing.

7. You can make a true difference for God right now {at your age; right where you are}.

8. The devil lies… a lot {it’s his native tongue}. It’s hard cause he’s sneaky, but don’t believe ‘em!

9. Valleys don’t last forever. Just keep moving.

10. You don’t have to be perfect. I repeat, you don’t have to be ~~purfect~~ perfect {& can’t, I might add}.

11. Joy is a choice {no matter your circumstances}.

12. This life is tough, but God will never leave you!

Love for the New Year {2012},

-Bess-

Happy New Year + That Girl

2011-12-31T15:24:00.000-08:00

Retro TV shows make me happy, & none more so than That Girl. Oooh, I love Marlo Thomas {the star actress}, her quirky charming personality, & fashion sense. This show has much to do with me going out on my own … I knew about the show, but had never seen it until around Christmas last year. After watching That Girl I couldn’t be content until I found my own little apartment & tried my wings… The rest is history. You can’t imagine the squeals let loose {in my apartment} the day I saw the commercial letting me know That Girl was coming back to TV… no more scrounging & saving to purchase the DVD box sets. Tomorrow on the MeTV network {which I sincerely hope you have}, they will be hosting a That Girl marathon, & in the days after that, you can find That Girl every weekday night at 9:30 eastern time! It’s simply fabulous!

I hope to do some That Girl fashion posts in the near future, too… so come back soon!

If you don’t have MeTV, or simply can’t wait till tomorrow afternoon, here’s the first episode {after the pilot}. Hope you enjoy & happy 2012!

Love,

-Bess-

{Last Minute} New Year's Accessory Tips

2011-12-30T14:25:00.000-08:00

I'm so excited about New Year's! Ahhh, a fresh start, new beginning, & all that jazz! It makes me grin from ear to ear {no, really} =). Not to mention that New Year's Day falls on a Sunday this year - oh, I'm going to pick out {from my closet} =) the perfect ensemble for church! Here's some quick accessory tips... No need to purchase a brand new outfit, make it fresh with all the little {sparkly} extras...

Add some sequins!

Add some glitter!

Love,

-Bess-

Christmas Open House

2011-12-26T14:28:00.000-08:00

Welcome! I wish I'd had the chance to show you around before the big day, but better late than never! Here's a little tour for ya... =)

My living room has a sort of green & blue color scheme, which I didn't want to alter just for the holiday season... so, I let my Christmas decor match what I already had in place.

My tree had a bit of a theme: nature/things that fly... butterflies, dragonflies, birds, reindeer =)

These glass bird clip ornaments were one of my favorites. {Michael's Craft Store $1!}

Love this quote I found in a magazine! It seemed quite appropriate, so I cut it out & layed it on a low branch. Note the bejeweled glittery green dragonfly ornament. {Walmart $0.97}

My bookish Christmas continues with my fireplace area. I tore bunches of pages out of tattered old books {I got them at my local used book store's 'free box'}, & placed them at different angles, taped/glued them together {from the back}, & cut them to fit behind the glass panels... Don't worry, I don't use my fireplace! I made a simple paper chain out of more old book paper + a stocking garland out of a $1 chipboard book I got {again} at Michael's, which I disassembled, covered with book paper, & hung on a ribbon. I love the wall sticker I got at the Dollar Tree which reads, "With God all things are possible." A perfect promise for Christmastime.

Click here to see how to create another bookish Christmas craft!

My simple card display {which I simply heart}. Click here to see how to create your own!

Hope you & your family had a blessed Christmas full of the hope, joy, & peace only Jesus can bring!

Love & Happy New Year,

-Bess-

Merry Christmas

2011-12-25T14:43:00.000-08:00

This is one of my all time favorite Christmas songs! Hope you enjoy!

Love,

-Bess-

Mistletoe Misgivings

2011-12-24T11:46:00.000-08:00

Remember the 'Dear Single Christmas Girl' post from last year {click here to read}? Well, it's another year, another Christmas, & I'm still waiting solo under the mistletoe. I don't know what it is about this year, but it feels harder somehow... Perhaps it's going home to an empty apartment after watching couples holding hands at the mall & chivalrous guys opening car doors. I just wonder is he really out there someone in this vast world... & if so, how will I ever find him? Is he just a figment? I need to go read that post again! Hope you'll join me! God is with us! What am I worried about anyway?

Christmas Love,

-Bess-

P.S.: Just keeping it real in this tough world! =)

A Bookish Christmas

2011-12-20T15:33:00.000-08:00

Yes, I love crafty Christmas-y things that are, at the same time, bookish! This little Christmas tree art was pretty simple. Here's how to recreate it...

What You'll Need:

fabric (for the backing), a page from an old book =), seed beads, needle & thread (for stringing beads), scissors, buttons, glue, frame

What To Do:

Cut a tree out of the old book paper {I find folding the paper in half and cutting out one side of the tree is easiest}. Next, string seed beads onto thread for a garland, & attach to tree with thread or tape. Glue buttons on as ornaments. Glue bedecked tree onto fabric. Place in frame & enjoy!

Bookish Blessings,

-Bess-

P.S.: I made a paper chain out of ye olde book paper, too! I heart the written {typed} word.

Christmas Song Love: "Jesus, Savior" by Chris August

2011-12-11T13:47:00.000-08:00

Love it!

-Bess-

{5 Minute} Christmas Card Holder Tutorial

2011-12-11T13:23:00.000-08:00

I love the idea of a simple homespun Christmas... This being my 1st Christmas in my own home, it's easy to get caught up in a decorating frenzy that threatens to steal all my free time & totally deplete my hot glue gun stick collection. Truth be told, this has been a very trying season for me. Stuff just isn't going smoothly... to put it lightly. So, I'm working to keep the decorating simple {yet chic} =) & focus on the true meaning of Christmas... which fills my weary heart with the hope, comfort, & confidence of my heavenly Father's love for His currently downtrodden daughter. He is sooooo good... & I know He will lift up my downcast face & wipe away all the tears {& tear tracks} in His perfect time. Love You, dear Father!

What You Need: long ribbon {wide ribbon works well}; paper clips {I chose red & white ones}; Christmas cards =) {I could see this project being used for photos, too!}

What To Do:

Take the ribbon and tie a nice bow {you may want to sew a couple stitches to secure the bow - I, however, did not}. Next, attach the Christmas cards {or photos} to the ribbon using the paper clips. Lastly, carefully hang the back of the bow on a nail {covering the nail head}. There you have it! This was super simple... I'm so pleased with how it turned out!

Christmas Greetings

{with love from a girl & her God},

-Bess-

Scrappy Christmas Blocks

2011-12-04T11:38:00.000-08:00

Season's greetings, Gal Pals & readers everywhere! Have some wooden blocks left over from a carpentry project? Here's a great way to recycle 'em!

All you need are scrapbooking papers/embellishments; old Christmas cards; ribbon; rubber stamps; glue/gluestick; etc. + wooden blocks, of course {which sadly aren't pictured below - I forgot}. =)

After designing, measuring, cutting, & gluing here's what I came up with...

I was so pleased, I made another... {But, I love the 1st one best.}

They both now sit snuggly on my tiny mantelpiece {which isn't really a mantelpiece at all, but this girl uses her imagination well}. Can't wait to show you my Christmas-y apartment {truth be told, I can't wait to see it myself...I'm still working on it}!

Crafting Love,

-Bess-

5 Minute {Or Less} Christmas Cuteness

2011-11-26T14:07:00.000-08:00

I am so excited... it's my 1st Christmas in my apartment! Yippee! I must confess, I've already got the tree up & decorated {though I'm not done yet}! Spreading Christmas cheer throughout the house is a dream, but it can be tiring, too. So, here's 3 easy fixes to add seasonal cheer in mere minutes! From my house to yours...

Easy-Peasy Ornaments

What You Need: clear (or plastic) bulb ornaments {available at craft stores}; tinsel {I heart vintage tinsels/glittery garlands}

What You Do: Pinch the little metal loop & pull the caps off your ornaments. Insert tinsel into the opening carefully. Insert as much as you want & then cut off the extra for the next ornament. Finally, put the metal cap back on. Ta da! Simply chic, easy-peasy Christmas ornaments... perfect for hanging on the tree, stacking in a bowl, filling a vase, etc.!

*****

Instant Christmas Cookie Jar

What You Need: clear glass jar; Christmas scrapbook paper

What You Do: Measure your jar & cut your scrapbook paper accordingly. Insert scrapbook paper. Finito! Hang a gift tag extra on the lid for an added touch. {Yes, I have a Hello Kitty toaster.} =)

*****

Quick Christmas Wall Art

What You Need: Christmas scrapbook paper; frame

What You Do: Find a Christmas-themed scrapbook paper {or even a Christmas card} you love, frame it, & hang it. Lickety split that was quick! =)

Christmas is coming fast!

Love,

-Bess-

So Thankful

2011-11-24T09:18:00.000-08:00

God has blessed us so greatly!

Thank You, dear Father, for our countless blessings... the greatest being the gift of Your Son, Jesus.

Happy Thanksgiving from my family to yours!

Count your blessings today (& everyday)!

Love,

-Bess-

P.S.: Here's some more {free} blessings for ya...

*Enter the code RGIFT2U for a free 8X10 collage print at Walgreens' online photo center (valid until 11/25/11).

*Enter the code STUDYBRK at Amazon to receive a $2 MP3 credit (valid until 11/28/11).

The {Jamie Grace} Joyful Girl Songbook {Compiled by Bess}

2011-10-20T11:53:00.000-07:00

Stumbling upon the following videos was such a God thing! I love these sweet little sisses-in-Christ! They just make me happy & I love to sing along with Mandi... Mandi, if you ever read this: You rock, sister! Okay, so all of these aren't Jamie Grace, but I had to add 'em anyways.

Love & Joy,

-Bess-

Dollar Store Fall Crafts {Yeah!}

2011-10-17T13:36:00.000-07:00

I was recently perusing my fave crafting blog “Ruffles & Stuff,” when I found this simple idea… Disney {that’s the fabulous blogger’s name (yes, really)} always inspires me. So, I took her project & ran with it!

Here’s my version…

What You Need:

glass vase (mine is from the Dollar Tree); small limbs/sticks (gather outside=); old books (I got mine out of a free box); scissors; pencil; glue; leaf pattern (optional); decorative moss (again, Dollar Tree); stones/pebbles (optional)

Pour a small layer of stones into your glass vase, and then place decorative moss on top of that layer. Insert sticks into moss at different angles. Next cut out (using a template or freehand) a bunch of leaf shapes from old book paper. Next, fold “leaves” a little to make them look more authentic & then glue onto branches {I also scattered a couple on the table, too, for a little extra effect.}. Finally, wrap a ribbon around the vase. There you have it, a simple, cheap chic easy fall fix for your table!

total cost: about $2

Autumn Leaf Garland

What You Need:

twine; silk flower leaves (I found 50 for $1 at the Dollar Tree!); needle/thread/scissors

This is so completely simple! I love it! All you have to do is sew (by hand) fabric leaves to your twine (you could also use hot glue). I alternated the colors (red, yellow, red, yellow) and left the spacing between leaves pretty much the same. I think I’m going to hang mine outside!

total cost: about $2

I hope to do some more crafting during my break! It's very therapeutic!

Love,

-Bess-

Falling Back In

2011-10-15T11:25:00.000-07:00

Autumn always makes me smile. It's pretty amazing that after all these 20-something years on this planet seasons still catch me by surprise...it's funny...

As you know, I've been absent lately from Bess' Bag, but {thank You, Jesus}, I finally have a break from work and I'll be back in full force for the next week. Let me tell you, girls, that my job has been the most uber stressful thing... I can't even begin to explain. After so much prayer to find the right job, I'm not sure of the reason why God has brought me to this... but I don't have to. The only thing I have to know is that He will bring me through. I have felt Him carry me these past couple months when I couldn't imagine taking another step forward. Jesus knows my pain & struggle {of this I'm very sure}, & I know He perfectly planned the following song to play on my car radio, too many times to count, as I've taken the dark winding path to work each morning... I hope it gives you strength {His perfect kind, which we just can't understand or measure} to face whatever it is that stands in your path...

Autumn Love {with His perfect strength},
-Bess-

"I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength."

-Philippians 4:13

Thank You, dear Lord, for showing up through my radio those dark early mornings, for giving me the power to continue & hold my head high as Your beloved, standing by my side, being for me, & carrying me when I couldn't go any further on my own strength... & for the comforting beautiful surprise of this season.

Love, Your Daughter Forever,

-Bess-

Missoni {For Target}

2011-09-18T00:25:00.000-07:00

Well, Target has done it again...another designer collaboration to make us smile & run with our red carts blazing the trail ahead of us! The buzz around the recent infamous fashion house's wares hitting the bullseye store has been great. I can't wait to see if anything lasts until clearance time! I sojourned to the nearest store today & saw some of the goods...adorable! The prices are pretty steep (of course, no where near as high as typical Missoni pieces)...but still, if you're like me you'll wait and hope for clearance time. While you wait, however, you can always scour local thrift stores & tag sales {I love autumn garage sales} for retro/vintage knits with similiar Missoni-esque zig-zag designs!

Love,
-Bess-

P.S.: I've been so busy! I've missed you guys!

Back 2 Cool {School} =)

2011-09-17T14:09:00.000-07:00

make it educational

fit it all in

everything looks better with an owl

penny for your thoughts

school girl approved

Love & Learning,

-Bess-

Bess' Travel Diaries: England + Wales, Part 5

2011-08-13T13:46:00.000-07:00

Dear Diary,

This land is filled with shopping delights! I bought 2 frilly tunics for 5 Pounds each at a shop on Portobello Road. It was my dream to stroll down London's world famous cheap & chic Saturday street market, & I actually did it! There were street musicians, tons of stalls & tables, + a myriad of tiny appearing stores that once you entered you could get lost in. Oh, but was it ever crowded! You couldn't stroll so much as shuffle very slowly {or dangerously dodge in & out of the mob}.

Cardiff Castle gift shop, Wales {above & below}

this Sleeping Beauty is quite the picky princess

Cardiff, Wales - I loved this stylish second-hand boutique shop window {they were collecting books for charity}

just push the big silver bow to enter =)

look who I spotted out & about collecting their {royal (& patriotic)} necessities

British shopping staples...

This shop {All Saints} is located in the Knotting Hill / Portobello Road area. The entire window front & much of the walls & other vertical space inside is covered with antique sewing machines!

even though it is right near Portobello Road's many flea-market-type venues, it is quite the upscale establishment

needless to say, I made no purchases here

Alice's is a famous little antique-brimmed shop on Portobello Road {I got so excited when I saw it}

Well, that concludes my travel diary {hope you've enjoyed it}! Certainly it wasn't possible to share all the details & adventures, but I hit the highlights. I still can't believe I went to England & Wales this summer! Remember to keep those in London in your prayers (riots)... I am so thankful that I was there when it was pretty peaceful!

Cheerio,

-Bess-

Worn Out {But Still Marching}

2011-08-12T20:11:00.000-07:00

I am so tired! I'd really appreciate your prayers right about now as I nearly nod off & fall face 1st into the keyboard {which would lead to some inexplicable code-looking words to appear (that if ever deciphered would simply read "worn out")}. I see many steep mountains {enshrouded with mist, making the peaks a mystery} in the distance & know the going is going to be tough, but the view will be more than worth it. I also have praises to add to my state of exhaustion: that I've made it thus far in my new job {& that I have a job in the 1st place (Thank You, Lord!)}; that I've had pretty good days; & that I've seen tiny victories; that I've only cried once (today, sadly); etc.}. This life sure is tiring! Well, gotta go. Thanks for listening & for all your prayers! Thank You, heavenly Father, for never leaving me to hike this life alone.

Love,

-Bess-

Happy 100th, Lucy!

2011-08-06T14:19:00.000-07:00

No one can make us laugh quite like Lucy can...

I love her!

Laughs & Smiles,
-Bess-

Bess' Travel Diaries: England + Wales, Part 4

2011-07-30T14:46:00.000-07:00

Dear Diary,

London is by far the biggest city I've ever ventured into... What was I thinking? This place is crazy busy - & of course I would choose to visit the two days that coincide with a Bon Jovi concert & some memorial service {not to mention a couple peaceful protests here & there + perhaps the hottest temperature registered (in Celsius, of course) this summer}. Most folks here are pretty stoic or at least disinterested in offering a smile to passersby or any other such pleasantry. Every time I hear an American accent my heart does a patriotic leap inside my chest & I move in to chat with my fellow Yanks. Get me back to my "old Kentucky home"...well, I don't have a home in KY, but ya know what I mean...

Big Ben with the London Eye peeping by in the background

Big Ben is actually the moniker of the bell inside the clock tower

houses of parliament

Trafalgar Square

London Eye

London Bridge {is not falling down, as you can see} =)

riding across the bridge {in an open air double decker}

I took a double decker bus tour around the city + a cruise on the River Thames. I helped this older man {a tourist from India} find the right dock to get on the boat cruise {I know, imagine me, in gigantic London being able to help others find their way around! It was definitely a God thing, how I was able to remain unlost for most of the time & make it back safely! Heaven knows I could still be there trying to find my way back if not for my heavenly Daddy guiding my steps. Thanks Father!}. Anyways, near the end of the cruise the Indian man reached for my camera & said {note he didn't ask}, "I will take your picture." So, I got a few shots, wanted or not, where he sort of told me where to stand & snapped away! =) Of course, I then offered to take his picture, which I did, after he instructed me to be "real quick." Never a dull moment.

Westminster {just think, William & Kate got married in this very church}

Tower of London {foreboding, isn't it}

buildings, buildings, buildings

No one {but God} knows how much I felt the words of this song as I wandered about the streets of London...

Love,

-Bess-

P.S.: Just one more travel diary entry left!

For You...

2011-07-28T16:25:00.000-07:00

God loves you.

"He determines the number of the stars & calls them each by name."
-Psalm 147:4

The amazing, awesome Star-Maker {God} =) made you, too - & He's waiting...

-Bess-

Graphic Tees + Maxis {Disney-Inspired Fashion Fun}

2011-07-23T10:04:00.000-07:00

I admit I love Disney characters! I'll never be to old to zip-a-dee-doo-dah it to the couch & find my heart singing along with Cinderella's cheery mice, to sympathize with Ariel's deep wishes, & cry over a wounded beast... that's just the way it is. So, it's no wonder Disney has found its way into my fashionable thoughts - & lent itself to another one of my faves: the maxi skirt. You can dress with a Disney-loving heart & look great at any age! I just wish I could still get away with wearing the princess dress-up gowns... oh well, this will have to do... =)

..Alice..

..Pocahontas..

..Ariel..

..Jasmine..

Summer Fun Love,

-Bess-

Bess' Travel Diaries: England + Wales, Part 3

2011-07-20T15:40:00.000-07:00

Dear Diary,

I’ve arrived in Didcot, England at long last. I’m staying in a cozy little B&B that, alas, doesn’t believe in the necessity of locks on a guest’s room door. Hey, I can improvise: I prop a chair in front of my door each night…a girl traveling alone can’t be too careful...

B&B {above & below}

East Hagbourne - a sort of medieval hamlet a stroll down the road from my B&B

quaint thatched roof

a very British scarecrow indeed

hollyhocks in bloom

a path I took

an old church

it may seem odd, but I love exploring a graveyard...

so much history + they make you think

ivy & stone

a shadowy path that I traversed, but quickly ran back from...very muddy & slightly creepy

a lush golden field in Didcot

sea of grass =)

More images of East Hagbourne...

It was from Didcot that I traveled to London {about a 45 minute train ride depending on the number of stops}. Here's a vid of the train journey I took more than once leaving London's Paddington Station back to my B&B in Didcot. Ah, I remember it well...

P.S.: It's a long video, so just take a mere peek!

Love & Adventure,

-Bess-

{Summer} Song Love

2011-07-17T15:06:00.000-07:00

Love this song {below}! You should see me grooving along in my car when this comes on the radio! I probably look pretty silly, but I don't care...cause "I love the way [He] holds me!"

bonus track...

This next tune was one of my main theme songs from my England + Wales trip this summer... & running for a train with all my luggage my 1st day there I pretty much think I proved the song wrong, =) but it's all about spiritual baggage anyways. The video isn't embeddable, so click here to view it on YouTube! Suitcases by Dara Maclean

The Redeemer by Sanctus Real

This Love is Free by Hyland

Fall Apart by Josh Wilson

Love {& Music},

-Bess-

Lessons My Apartment Taught Me

2011-07-15T16:01:00.000-07:00

1. Big bugs that refuse to die make me scream.
2. This world is not my home.

I’ll be delving into the latter of the lessons, needless to say.

All my life I’ve lived in the same house. Same street, address, bedroom, front yard, trees… Everything was cozy, familiar, &, in a word, home.

Then, I moved.

I had wanted to move out on my own & get my 1st little apartment for some time & after praying about it {a lot}, I felt it was the right time & place & I took the plunge. It was, in fact, a real head-under-the-water experience. I was expecting amazing freedom, adventure, & true carpe-diem-ness…with perhaps a cute guy next door mixed in {a forever sleepover feel}. What I got wasn’t that, so much. I got instead: grocery bills, lone ranger clean-ups, utility costs, wonderment as to whether my neighbors are psychedelic mushroom eaters, leaky faucets, mutant insects, loneliness, & maintenance men.

“But our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ, who, by the power that enables Him to bring everything under His control, will transform our lowly bodies so that they will be like His glorious body.” –Philippians 3:20-21 NIV

Now, I don’t want you to think that I’m so foolish as to have not considered such things before I signed my lease. I had – well, except for maybe the mushroom thing {I wasn’t that specific}. Anyways, it’s still tougher & less sleepover-ish than I dreamed. I feel a need to call my mom & tell her my plans every time I’m about to go to the store… in other words, this freedom thing is hard for me to get. Plus, I can’t just go down the hall & chat with my mom anytime, either. It’s lonely to live alone. Who’d of guessed?

“But our homeland is in heaven, & we are waiting for our Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ, to come from heaven. By His power to rule all things, He will change our simple bodies & make them like His own glorious body.” –Philippians 3:20-21 NCV

Even though I’ve looked forward to decorating my own place for forever, & I’ve finally gotten around to most of it – my apartment still doesn’t feel like home… & you know what, that just may be a good – no, great – thing. God is using my crazy little abode to remind me that this world & all its huts, castles, cottages, igloos {actually I think I read no one really ever lived in those – bummer for all my Eskimo dreams}, bungalows, tepees, & houses one-&-all are not our true homes. For those of us who belong to Christ, our true home is Heaven. I’m so glad.

Love,
-Bess-

I'm taking it back old school style! =)

Bess' No Bake Summer Pie

2011-07-08T11:25:00.000-07:00

Hey, I've got a quick & easy {no bake} (how I love those words) pie perfect for summer! {It's even healthy for ya as it's jam-packed with delicious fruit!}

I came up with the idea this July 4th. I'm sure I'm not the 1st to come up with it, but since I did, in fact, come up with it, I'm calling it Bess' No Bake Summer Pie! Oh, if you only knew this is my only hope of naming a recipe after myself, as I'm hopeless in all things culinary... if I make good toast I'm excited.

Ingredrients:
1 lb. strawberries
1 lb. blueberries
1 package of instant vanilla pudding
milk {to make the pudding - follow directions on the box}
whipped cream
1 graham cracker pie crust
{optional} graham cracker crumbs {smash up a graham cracker}

Important Notes:

You may use either fresh or frozen fruit. However, if using frozen {like I did}, it's best to plan to serve all the pie... In other words, no leftovers, because the bottom of the pie crust will fill with a juicy mess {even when placed in the fridge} after a time. The pie still tastes great, but the presentation just isn't there anymore. =)
It's unlikely you'll need the entire pound of each fruit.
You could definitely experiment using other fruits!
You will not need all of the pudding either. Save the rest for another treat!
Refrigerate leftovers.

Prep:

*Follow the directions on your instant pudding box to make your pudding before you begin.
*Slice strawberries.

Directions:

Take your ready graham cracker pie crust & fill the bottom with either one layer of blueberries or sliced strawberries {depending on preference - I used blueberries 1st}.

Spread the vanilla pudding over your layer of fruit.

Take your remaining fruit & make one layer over the pudding.

Top with a layer of whipped cream.
{optional} Sprinkle on graham cracker crumbs & top with a few blueberries/strawberries.
If not serving immediately, refrigerate until then.

It really was refreshing & tasty! Maybe...just maybe...there's hope for me in the kitchen, afterall! =)

Now We're Cooking,

-Bess-

P.S.: And...just causes it's summer & I wanna...

"I can do all things through Him who strengthens me."

Philippians 4:13

{Even cook!}

Bess' Travel Diaries: England + Wales, Part 2

2011-07-07T14:57:00.000-07:00

Dear Diary,

Today I traveled to Windermere - nestled in the heart of the English Lake District. Quite a trek from my little town in Wales! I had to catch a train at 6:25 in the morning just to get there by 11 something in the afternoon...but I couldn't visit Britain & miss out on the chance to see Beatrix Potter's Hill Top Farm home!

P.S.: I met a lovely Japanese girl named Shiho on the boat {I took a boat ride then bus (& back again) to visit Hill Top} who loved children's literature as I do! Shiho is an artist who wishes to create children's books. I'm so glad to meet a friend so far from home.

P.P.S.: I chatted with a Scottish man, too, who kindly gave me a pound for the bus when I couldn't find one. Oh, how I do love Scotland & am sorry I couldn't make it there on this journey!

Lake Windermere

a beautiful swan {+ a mallard duck in the right corner}

so picturesque

the view from Hill Top's garden

old British rose found in the beautiful garden out in front of Beatrix's farm home

foxglove {also known as Digitalis}

the perfect sight outside the garden {these rabbits were actually fenced in, but I saw droves of wild bunnies all over the English & Welsh countryside}

part of The World of Beatrix Potter Attraction {sadly I didn't have enough time to tour the exhibit, but I visited the gift shop where I took this photo (click here to learn more)}

click here for more on Hill Top Farm

Love,

-Bess-

July 4th Fun

2011-07-02T12:46:00.000-07:00

Patriotic Style

Crafty 4th Ideas

Visit Gabrielle's crafting blog Project Paperie for more red, white, & blue make-its! I just love her ideas & am so glad to have found her fabulous blog!

Stop by this site for even more American-inspired art projects!

Click here for loads of vintage patriotic images from my one of my all time favorite clip art sites, The Graphics Fairy! The pics are great for blog-use & craft projects.

Happy 4th!

Love,
-Bess-

Bess' Travel Diaries: England + Wales, Part 1

2011-07-01T14:15:00.000-07:00

The journey beckons {& begins}...

{overnight flight} U.S.A. to Heathrow Airport, London {I sat next to a lovely young American woman who lived in England with her husband & children. She even gave me her phone number in case I had any problems on my solo adventure!}
Heathrow Express train to London's Paddington Station {It was here that I nearly sat down in the middle of the mass of moving humanity & cried. I was exhausted, lugging my luggage behind me {that must be why it's called luggage}, & being told something different each time I'd ask how to get to the little town in Wales where I was to stay for the 1st 3 nights. But, I managed to hold it together. Thank You, Lord.}
London, England to Wales {by trains}

Dear Diary,

Wales is pretty darn cold! The natives were out in short sleeves & shorts, while I was bundled in layers & still shivering! Not to mention, the B&B is quite a long walk from the train station. What have I got myself into?

P.S.: "Awryt butt" (which sounds like "all right but") apparently means "hello friend" in Wales-speak {something to do with bud, as in buddy, only they call it butt}. Not where I come from buddy...or should I say butty.

Here's the room where I spent my 1st 3 nights {& killed 2 of the 3 sinister-looking spiders of the trip. Ugh!} It was a room for 2, but I stayed in it solo {of course}.

This old silver skeleton-style key fascinated me. They still use these antiquities over there! In fact, it was the key for the front door of the B&B, which was formerly a vicarage {thought to be built in the 1600s}. The floors were awfully creaky!

I spent so much of my time on trains or at train stations.

On day 2 I traveled to Cardiff, the capital of Wales.

Dear Diary,

Today on my way to Cardiff, I chatted with an elderly lady originally from Northern Ireland. As we neared a rail station, I took the chance to ask her what station it would be {asking questions is all I ever do, it seems}. She told me Welshpool, so I sat back & listened to her describe how her old aunt fell & broke her hip & went down hill from there {as I was waiting for the Shrewsbury station, not Welshpool}. As the train began to pull away again from its stop, the lady {Margaret was her name} finally took a breath & looked out the window. These are the words that next came out of her mouth: "Oh, no! This was your stop! I'm so sorry, I didn't think we were there yet!" To make a long story short, I had to get off at the next station, get a train going back the other way, & wait for the next earliest connection. Oh hum well, that's travel for ya!

Coming back from Cardiff proved even less appealing, as I missed the train by mere minutes that I should have taken {note to self: 24 hour clocks are a terrible confusing invention}. I had to wait about knowing that I wouldn't be coming into my little B&B town until after 10:00, which meant a long dark walk. So I did what any normal girl would do alone in a foreign land, I begged someone to use their cell phone & alerted my B&B hosts that I would be getting in rather late {hoping beyond hope they'd read between the lines & offer to pick me up from the station}. Sadly, they said they'd be out themselves... So, I did next what any solitary, worn out girl would do on a strange foreign mass, I went into the restroom & cried. On the long dark stroll home {note: when I say stroll I really mean speed walk}, I sang almost silently the old hymn from long ago... "What a friend we have in Jesus..." & prayed. He was with me all the winding way. Day 2 was quite something. What next? All I know for sure is, "what a friend we have in Jesus!"

P.S.: So glad I brought along that mini flashlight {a torch, to the Brits}.

bustling streets of the capital {note the Welsh flags flying}

these pom-pom-like flowers were so tall & large {sorta like something you expect in Alice in Wonderland}

clock tower {part of Cardiff Castle, which I toured}

click here to learn more about the castle

fancy angelic decoration above a fireplace {inside the castle}

one of the many stained glass windows

dining room for wee royals

study area {love the window seats}

this is one of my favorite pics {yep, I'm a bibliophile}

Norman Keep {located inside the castle walls}

bright ivy creeping up the ancient stones

Well, this closes part 1 of my Travel Diary. Stop back by soon for the rest of the adventure!

Love from Wales & Back Again,

-Bess-

Remember Me?

2011-06-28T17:06:00.000-07:00

Hello! I'm back... & it's sooo good to be home! Oh, I've so much to share - pics & stories & all that, but I'm way too exhausted at the moment. Don't worry, I'll be back in a day or two {when jet lag has subsided & I've stopped feeling the sway of the train}.

Loads of Love,
-Bess-

Tips for the Traveling Girl

2011-06-17T17:30:00.000-07:00

It's summer & road trips, sandy beaches, & camping outings {mmm smores}are calling our name. Whether you're traveling by plane, train, or automobile {or by foot} - it's smart to have good pre-journey prep.

Create a list of all the items you're taking & use it as a check list when you pack for home {no more leaving strays behind}.
Never leave your bag(s) unattended, especially at an airport.
Cross body purses are usually roomy enough for a camera & small umbrella + perfect for hands free sightseeing {not to mention more difficult for any sneaky purse snatchers}.
Beware pick-pocketers! Choose bags with zippers or a flap with clasps, & don't place things in your pockets {unless it's a gum wrapper or something} =)
Make sure your travel {& pretravel} is filled with prayer. Having a tough day & your feet hurt? Pray! Excited & grateful over the natural beauty around you? Pray! No strange area code or little red phone booth necessary! God's always there with you...pretty awesome, amazing news for the traveler & pilgrim of this life.

Pack with your journey & destination in mind. What do you truly need & what's practical?
Pack one fancy outfit or dress {+ shoes to go with it}; if there's a chance for a night on the town {NOTE: a clutch bag takes up little suitcase space & will make your ensemble look more finished}.
Going abroad? Research local street style & plan your outfits beforehand to avoid looking touristy.

Don't forget the essentials:

hair brush/hair accessories
toothbrush/toothpaste
deodorant
toiletries
sunscreen
shampoo/conditioner {or a 2-in-1}
body wash &/or bar of soap
face wash
band aides
cosmetics
Tylenol/vitamins &/or other medications
pajamas {sometimes these nightly necessities are forgotten - & believe me it's no fun to sleep in your clothes}
camera/batteries

Traveling solo, like me? Here's what us smart girls pack for the solitary wander:

Bible {This is my most important travel item. God can use it in amazing ways as you head out alone {with just Him} & open it up on a new path.}
journal/pen
whistle {for safety}
mini flashlight
umbrella
hat {of some sort}
personal music player {It's comforting to hear familiar tunes that encourage your spirit to rely on & praise your heavenly Daddy.}
snacks
street smarts {You can't pack this in your bag, but you better stash it somewhere. Don't: trust every friendly face; go out alone after dark; take a ride with someone you don't know; etc. It's hard to say what to & to not to do in every situation, but go with your gut, pray lots, be smart, & live the adventure.}

Love on this Journey called Life,

-Bess-

What to Wear?

2011-06-14T09:33:00.000-07:00

So, what should I don on my jaunt across the pond?

Pastel liberty prints, ruffles, & classic Britannia chic – in other words…

English Rose

Or trendy Vivienne Westwood-esque city style, say…

London Bold

Be sure to tell me your opinion on the matter at hand in the special edition Girl Talk Poll in the sidebar.

Cheerio,

-Bess-

The Land of Tea & Biscuits

2011-06-12T13:53:00.000-07:00

Yep, I'm so excited! I'll be heading off solo - no tour groups or schedule. Just me & my heavenly Daddy let loose throughout the quiet English countryside & bustling London metropolis! I know, I know, crazy, isn't it? But, I've been crazy before, as I went to Scotland in the same solo fashion one summer during college. I heart adventure &, yes, I've got the wanderlust...

Love & Anglomania,
-Bess-

The Books of Summer

2011-06-10T10:34:00.000-07:00

Summer is the perfect time to delve into a good read! Here's some of my favorite picks to snoop for at your local library or neighborhood bookshop...& since you shouldn't judge a book by its cover I'm not showing you any! {Not to mention, it saves on the image searching/uploading time, too} =)

SERIES READS

The Mother-Daughter Book Club Series

by Heather Vogel Frederick

Book 1: The Mother-Daughter Book Club

Book 2: Much Ado About Anne

Book 3: Dear Pen Pal

Book 4: Pies & Prejudice

I can't tell you how much I love these! They're my new favorites! I've read every one of the books {in order, which I highly recommend, since they follow the girls' changing lives from middle school - high} from my library & I just don't know how to go on without them now {dramatic sigh}. I need a new one, which I think the author is currently working on {thank you}. The books follow a group of girls & their adventures & misadventures; friendships & frenemy-ships; & ups & downs as they grow separately & together in a mother-daughter book club. It's so bookishly good!

The Penderwick Series by Jeanne Birdsall

The Penderwicks

The Penderwicks on Gardam Street

The Penderwicks at Point Mouette

There's something nostalgic & essentially summery about these Penderwick sisters. The latest book just came out this year {& I can't wait to read their latest adventures}.

The Boston Jane Trilogy by Jennifer L. Holm

Boston Jane: An Adventure

Boston Jane: Wilderness Days

Boston Jane: The Claim

I haven't reread these in a while, but boy do I remember loving em! Set in the days when lady's must be proper & America was still full of wild untamed lands to the west, a girl named Jane sets off on one wild ride that turns into a journey of self discovery & finding her place in the world.

SINGLE STORIES {NON-SERIES}

Cicada Summer by Andrea Beaty

This novel surprised me... it was really quite a moving read & it involves some of my favorite things: truth, secrets, Nancy Drew books, & mystery.

On Viney's Mountain by Joan Donaldson

Viney doesn't appreciate the Englishmen who come to her beautiful mountain community in hopes of building a new settlement. In fact, when they start to cut down trees & other rich flora, she becomes boiling mad. Complications, including love, create more problems for the spirited young craftswoman. This beautiful yarn set in historic Rugby, TN, is one of my newest favorites! I laughed out loud with this one & cried! Love it!

The Summer Before by Ann M. Martin

Remember the BSC? You know, the Baby-Sitter's Club? This new book reveals the summertime happenings & goings-on that led up to the start of the club… a fun & easy read for anyone who loved those baby-sitting girls.

Happy Reading!

-Bess-

P.S.: Know of another good read? Share em in a comment!

Blessings

2011-06-05T11:00:00.000-07:00

Hey girls! Remember "My 'Mercies in Disguise'" post a while back? Click HERE to revisit. Well, I'm so excited to say that I {finally, in God's perfect time} got a job...the job I went to school for! Praise God! Hallelujah! Oh my goodness, I'm excited & nervous &...everything...all at once! Please be in prayer for me & this new path - I'm certain it will be challenging, & I'm hopeful it will be rewarding as well. I persevered {Remember when in the other post I pulled into the Perseverance Pike parking spot?} - I interviewed at another place that I had already interviewed at 2 other times - & I got it! Thank You God for this position You have given me! Yippee!

Thanks for praying, girls! Love you all so much!

-Bess-

{Yes You Are}

2011-05-22T09:00:00.000-07:00

How the West Was Won {Fashion Wise}

2011-05-21T13:14:00.000-07:00

Hitch up the team & raid your closet for the rustic Ralph-Lauren-inspired pieces you may already have, such as: plaids, ginghams, whites, tans, anything with fringe, Native-American-inspired jewelry, lace, long ruffled skirts, cross-body messenger bags, leather, belts with big buckles, western-style goods, camel-colored blazers...

Bring the country look home for less by finding these picks from Forever21!

bracelet cuff with wood detailing - $10.80

tiered maxi skirt - $19.80

faux-leather messenger bag - $19.80

crochet leatherette belt - $5.80

eyelet fringed scarf - $8.80

Love from the Wild West, er South,

-Bess-

P.S.: I love finding modest fashion straight from the runways for ya! Hope you find it fashionably {& God-pleasing wardrobe-wise} inspiring, too!

The End is Coming {As Always}

2011-05-20T16:15:00.000-07:00

Have you heard the news? Jesus is scheduled to return tomorrow! Be sure to pencil it in on you planner & get ready {go ahead, chuck Monday’s homework & eat all the contents of your fridge} =). Hey, wait a sec. Put down that tub of whip cream. Who’s “scheduling” this anyway? Some guys somewhere. Really? Mere human folks???
Here’s what God has told us, through His Word the Bible, about His return…
Jesus speaking: “No one knows about that day or hour, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father.” –Mark 13:32 NIV
Mortal man may think they’ve carefully calculated the date of Christ’s return, but through their false wisdom, they’ve instead thumbed down one day we can rest assured our Lord won’t return on, for no one knows the date & time, but God. Since when did us “folks” trump angels, the Son of God, or the Father in the wisdom department {or any department, for that matter). Only God knows, so don’t fear when people of this world tell you it’s the end… Honestly, they don’t have a clue – the Bible says so.
The one thing to know is this: because we don’t know when Christ will return for His children, we must be ready always, through a relationship with God that only comes through a real, saved-me-from-my-sins-now-I-live-for-Him relationship with His Son, Jesus. Don’t have that yet? Not sure how to get it? Want to know what the Bible has to say? Check out the Good News page {click the link at the top of the blog, under the main Bess’ Bag logo/sign} & read through the scriptures; drop me a note; &/or open your Bible {you’ll have to sometime + it’s got all the answers to salvation anyway + even more tools for living this life with purpose, peace, & eternal hope}. I pray I see you in heaven one of these {unknown} days!

“Be on guard! Be alert! You do not know when that time will come. It’s like a man going away: He leaves his house & puts his servants in charge, each with his assigned task, & tells the one at the door to keep watch. Therefore keep watch because you do not know when the owner of the house will come back – whether in the evening, or at midnight, or when the rooster crows, or at dawn. If he comes suddenly, do not let him find you sleeping. What I say to you, I say to everyone: Watch!”
-Mark 13:33-37 NIV

Love,
-Bess-

My “Mercies in Disguise”

2011-05-17T16:01:00.000-07:00

Many of you Gal Pals know from reading my posts that I have spent much time searching for work since graduating college. I am grateful to God for the part time job I found last August, which helped get my foot in the door {Why does it always seem to get smashed?}, but I am still on the lookout for the career I truly went to school for. This summer will likely be full of interviews & waiting…in fact, it’s already begun, & I’d like to share just on the chance it might encourage you with whatever your facing right now.

A couple weeks ago…
I quickly wrote the date & time down on the edge of a newspaper. Yes, I had an interview lined up! Sure, it was for a place I had interviewed at once before a year or so ago, but it was something – I hoped. I decided to be good & write it on my calendar.
Family & friends assured me they were praying for me…some even went so far as to say, “this is going to be it.” The time made it so I had to leave directly from work & skip lunch to get there without the fear of being late. I dressed extra professional-like with a gray pinstripe blazer & matching gray slacks. I was ready – as ready as I’d ever be. It was very hot & let’s just say my air conditioner isn’t the best. The job was nestled into a not-so-nice neighborhood. I was passing by all the street names I’d heard on the local news notorious for late night shootings & gang activity. Praying for my interview & singing along with the radio, I pulled into the parking lot. This could be it! The parking spaces all had these little green “street” names in front with inspirational titles. I pulled into the 1st open slot: “Decision Drive;” I hoped that was a good sign.
I made my way to the office hot, hungry, but putting that aside for the nerves & anticipation of the interview. I told the lady at the desk my name & the purpose of my visit & then sat down. I was quite a few minutes early, but better that than late. I sat running everything through my mind that I wanted to make sure & say. The interview time came & went, & still nothing. Finally, after 15 minutes past the appointment the man came out who I was to interview with, & I settled my butterflies & rose from my chair. “It’ll just be a few more minutes.” I smiled politely, said that was fine, & sat back down – perturbed, but willing to wait. About 15 to 20 minutes later he came back out holding a Styrofoam cup of what appeared to be hot chocolate. And, I thought, “this is it now; people are praying & I can do this through Christ in me” - & got up again. This time he said, “Are you sure this is the right day? I think you read the e-mail wrong.” I stare at him in disbelief, “I don’t know. I thought it was this day,” heat rising to my cheeks from the most unpleasant recipe {sure to cause heartburn} of anger & embarrassment. “Is there any possible way you can see me today? I waited so long already,” I was almost begging here. “No, there’s no way,” he says taking a sip of his cocoa & not even attempting to apologize, “Come next Monday.”
I left the building shaking & fought back my tears until I got into my car, turned the key, pushed the radio knob, reversed out of “Decision Drive” & turned out of the parking lot. I sobbed as I drove through the “killer” streets of the city; it wasn’t easy going driving on unfamiliar roads & crying like a baby. The tears kept on coming though. Then, my radio played this song…

& just like the song says I “cried out in anger” at my God & “doubted His love” as I drove home, tears streaming, in my hot car. I listened to those words of Laura Story’s song & I tearfully said out loud, “I don’t believe it.” All the hope of that day - that had only been made larger through the countless many prayers & paths of my three year job search – fell unfulfilled upon me & made me cry out in defiant anger. Why, God?
Looking back & listening to the song many times since, I know it was no accident that song came on that drive home. And, I'm pretty certain I witnessed one of God’s “mercies in disguise” that day - even if I won't understand till I see Him face to face...but on that day I do, I will thank Him for it.

Love,
-Bess-

P.S.: I did go back on Monday {I had written the date wrong on my calendar - funnily enough not the newspaper, though} & when I pulled into the free space in the parking lot the post read “Perseverance Pike.” Even though it’s been a few weeks ago & I’ve heard nothing in response to my interview, I trust God’s mercies through the “tears, trials, & sleepless nights.” I hope you do too.

*Song: Blessings by Laura Story

Spring Trending {Accessories}

2011-05-14T13:29:00.000-07:00

Spring is upon us & what better way to update your wardrobe than through accessories? Here’s some ideas + the runway looks that inspired them…

Love,

-Bess-

WinsomeBess Etsy Sale

2011-05-07T11:32:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone! I've got a special sale going on at my Etsy shop: WinsomeBess!

Enter the code "BESSBAG" to recieve 10% off!*

Etsy Shop Link: WinsomeBess

Stop by for some shopping fun! Remember, everything's handmade & specially designed with love by me, Bess!

*Now through May 15, 2011.

Princess Style {H.R.H. Kate}

2011-05-05T14:07:00.000-07:00

We may not agree with every wardrobe choice she's ever made, but H.R.H. Kate has created quite a regal collection of queenly picks!

Of course, by now, you've heard the comparison be made between Kate's wedding gown & Princess Grace Kelly's. I see the resemblance, don't you?

Royal blue seems to be one of her favorite colors...quite appropriate, eh?

Royal Love,

-Bess-

Royal Goodies

2011-04-30T12:22:00.000-07:00

Stop by Etsy to find out more about these unique royal wedding tokens!

+ Here's what I might have worn to the royal big day {if only I'd had an invite}...

Love,

-Bess-

P.S.: Princess Kate inspired fashion ideas coming soon!

The Royal Wedding

2011-04-29T08:14:00.000-07:00

There’s something magical & inwardly stirring about the word princess. The same is true, with perhaps slightly lesser rank, of happily ever after & true love… because, honey, you can be a princess with problems just so’s long as you’re a princess. =) Isn’t our {or mine, at least} thought pattern strange. Being a princess is not all fairy tale lights, glass slippers, & dreamy coach rides. In fact, it’s giving up much: other career aspirations, freedom to come & go as you please, to act silly in public on the occasion that you feel so, to do as you like… It’s sacrifice, not just grace; it’s bothersome, not just beautiful.

There’s an inner part of most every girl & woman that yearns for princess-ship. Something in the title calls to each of us by name with promises to sweep us off our feet & make us regal, beloved, special, dazzling, & worthy. But, dear un-common girl, you are all those! The King of Kings – the one true King, our Lord – gave up His most prized possession, His Son, Christ Jesus, for you… &, in fact, one day your Prince will come {for all those who accept His gift of sacrifice & become part of His royal line} & you will live happily ever after. Now that you know your story’s end, & that you are, indeed, a princess, live like one.

“Now if we are {God’s} children, then we are heirs - heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ, if indeed we share in his sufferings in order that we may also share in his glory.” –Romans 8:17

Love,
{H.R.H.} -Bess-

Did you watch today’s royal festivities with Kate & William? I did in the wee, unkind hours of the morning – that seem least regal. Wasn’t H.R.H. Kate’s dress queenly modest & divine, & her in it? It was all sweet & lovely – from the little girls holding Pippa’s {Kate’s sis} hands, to the royal double kiss on the balcony, to the scripture read {from my favorite book of Romans}, to the choir lads young & old, to the push to get the ring onto the now Duchess of Cambridge’s finger {I do wish the Queen would have granted her the title princess, though – but she will forever be}. Here’s some of the highlights in case you missed it…

-bridesmaids & pageboys enter Westminster-

-Princess Catherine enters Westminster-

-walking down the aisle-

-royal vows-

-carriage ride-

-kisses on the balcony-

Peace for the Survivors

2011-04-28T17:07:00.000-07:00

The southeast US has been hit heavy by monstrous tornados that seemed to pile upon one another & swarm over communities with many blows. Nine fatalities have been uncovered in my area...one very close to where I live where a tree fell on a home. Thankfully, myself & my family were all kept safe with no damage other than small downed tree limbs. Thank You, God! Please join in praying for all those families that lost loved ones & suffered damage. It's crazy, there's trees down around the area pulled up by the roots & in some communities it's like everything's been smashed & turned into firewood. All that I've suffered is no power since yesterday early afternoon & some ruined freezer/fridge food {which I'm ashamed to say I grumbled about.} When I think about how some lost family members, friends, & their very homes, I know I've been blessed & can't complain. Thankfully, my mom & stepdad have power - so I'm over here for awhile. I can remember back when we had some major damage from a tornado a few years ago - this year we made it through safe. I had one scary moment this time around, however, - I was at my apartment alone when all this was happening - when I did climb in my tub & place a pillow over my head, as I heard some frightening banging noises above - thankfully, it was only powerful winds tossing things around & ripping some of the trim off my neighbors chimney. It's hard to know what to do after these things happen - the folks on tv say they've got enough volunteers & don't want extra people coming into areas at the moment... but I know at least I can pray.

Love,
-Bess-

Dear Father,

Thank you for delivering my family safely through these terrible storms & tornados. Please be with all those that lost loved ones & friends. Wrap Your arms around them & may they know You as their Lord, so that true peace can comfort their aching hearts. To those with aching hearts for lost homes & great damage, bring comfort, as well - hold them together & bring people together to help each other. Bring Your peace that passes understanding to those who don't know where or how they will fall asleep tonight. Please be with those hurt & also those missing survivors that may still be unaccounted for; Father, please keep them alive & let them be found by rescuers soon. Please let there be miracles & good to come out of all this & we praise You again for all of the protection You have given to us.

In Jesus' Name,
Amen.

Post-Easter Challenge 4 {Confession}

2011-04-28T12:08:00.000-07:00

Let me be honest. I have to be… I only completed one of the Easter challenges, which I myself created. I bet you can guess which one it was. Yep, that’s right, I read the Easter story. I had wonderful plans to complete the other two, but opportunities passed, people traipsed by & I left the blessed words unsaid. I failed & felt the pain of the thing I’d done – or not done. My sinful imperfection made me question who I was in Christ… made me feel like a bitter disappointment to my Lord. Certainly I fall short & sin daily, but I had purposefully put these challenges out there for not only myself, but for all of you…& then, I, the creator of the very scheme failed. I could have been instrumental in bringing someone to hear the message of Christ this Easter, which in turn could have changed an eternity, & dominoed from there.

Listen to some of the words of the song my heavenly Daddy placed on my car radio after the fact – when my failure was fresh & stinging…

“I wasted a rescue
Abandoned the mission
I've failed by my own hand
And watched it all go wrong
You said You could save me
That I couldn't save myself
You said that You loved me
No matter what I've done

When the light is gone
And life is just a dare we take
Still the fight goes on
To give my heart away

And it's out of my hands
It was from the start
In light of what You've done for me…

We're bent by our own plans
To keep us in the dark
And I act like an orphan
Forget that You found me
But You came like a whisper
And saved me with a spark…

And it's out of my hands
It was from the start
In light of what You've done for me”
-Out of My Hands by Jars of Clay

It’s funny, since the New Year I’ve been on a Bible reading plan, & on Easter Sunday evening, I sat, Bible on lap - feeling low I turned to the section for that day. It was Romans chapters 7 & 8, & when I started reading I didn’t know what I was getting into. It turns out it was the perfect place for a sinner like me to go. Here’s some of what I found:

You know when you feel like you should do something, but you let the opportunity pass - & then you turn around & do the things you don’t won’t to do that make you feel like a big let down mess? You’re not alone…
Paul speaking: “For what I do is not the good I want to do; no, the evil I do not want to do--this I keep on doing.” –Romans 7:19 NIV

Doing the things we hate & not the good things that we want, make us feel like horrible ugly flops, but Christ died to make us 'horrible ugly flops' clean & beautiful from all of these things.
“What a wretched man I am! Who will rescue me from this body of death? Thanks be to God—through Jesus Christ our Lord!” –Romans 7:24-25

You know that feeling of failure & soul angst? It’s not to remain. We who are in the Savior are not 'orphans'…
“Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.”
-Romans 8:1 NIV

I know I won't be finished with this challenge called 'life' until He calls me home. It will be a challenge, but Christ Jesus has won the final victory. Let’s begin again, knowing that we will fail at times, but seeking & striving beyond our frail humanity, because of the power of Christ in us & how He makes us brand new.

"For I am confident of this very thing, that He who began a good work in you will perfect it until the day of Christ Jesus." -Philippians 1:6 NASB

Love,
-Bess-

Easter Challenge 3

2011-04-23T10:28:00.000-07:00

This Easter Sunday, there’ll likely be several new faces {perhaps the one you invited =)} milling uncertainly about your sanctuary. Let someone new know that you’re glad she/he’s there! Whether they’re a visitor or someone you just usually don’t seek out, find someone new to greet with love. That person is someone for whom God sent His only Son to die – they’re special – just like you. Let them know it. That’s one of the messages of the cross…that we’re treasured by the One who made us. Perhaps, you could invite the newbie to a Sunday School class or other church event. Ask questions about where they live, work, go to school, etc. – people generally love to answer. Compliment an older lady’s attire or shake an elderly man’s hand warmly & introduce yourself. Hand them a bulletin & let them know about your church, preacher, & congregation. Introduce them to others. We’re called to love like Jesus loves. That’s a big order, cause He loved us with His whole life, & in the end He loved us more than life. Let’s start going out of our way to show this love. Remember how Jesus washed His disciples’ feet (John 13:1-20)? The King of Kings took on the position of a humble, lowly servant to show His love! After doing this He says, “I did this as an example so that you should do as I have done for you.” –John 13:15, NCV. A few verses later, Christ issues this – not a suggestion, plea, or idea – but a "command", “I give you a new command: Love each other. You must love each other as I have loved you. All people will know that you are my followers if you love each other.” –John 13:34-35, NCV. Even today, our love shows the world that we belong to Christ Jesus. Love is a command.

Love,
-Bess-

P.S.: I'm already practicing, see! =)

Easter Challenge 2

2011-04-21T17:52:00.000-07:00

Sure, you’ve probably heard/read the story all your life, but why not take time out this Easter to read it again…privately to yourself – don’t rush through it, but seek to soak up each verse & its meaning for not only the entire vastness of humanity, but to little ole’ you. You know, ‘you’ doesn’t seem that little after you read what the Creator of the universe did to see that you had a way to be with Him forever – if you’d just take it.

These words are some of the most powerful to me…
“But He {Jesus} was wounded for the wrong we did; He was crushed for the evil we did. The punishment which made us well, was given Him, & we are healed because of His wounds.” Isaiah 53:5 NCV (emphasis mine)

Where to find the Easter story…

NOTE: You may want to read a few chapters before &/or after, depending on how much of the details (such as the triumphal entry into Jerusalem; cleansing of the temple) surrounding the crucifixion & resurrection you want to read.

An account is found in each one of the gospels. Here’s where to find them all…

Matthew 26-28
Mark 13-16
Luke 22-24
John 13-21

Love,
-Bess-

Bess' Bag's 1st Ever Easter Challenge!

2011-04-19T13:40:00.000-07:00

This event wasn’t really planned. It sort of just happened, but sometimes that makes for the best recipe - & allows our Lord to do His stuff, when we listen to His nudging & follow. I’ve found myself lately falling into the trappings of apathy – you know, going through the motions of this life & lacking a passion, in this case, for Christ - mixed with a real want to live my life for Jesus, but feeling like a failure at my aim. You see, it’s not just my aim to point to my Savior in all that I do, it’s my very purpose for existence. If I fail in this, but gain in other areas, I’ve still failed. But, the one thing I know, is that if you seek to do God’s will with all your heart, He will help you to live it out. So, I don’t want another moment to go by – let alone another Easter, when I don’t strive to serve my blessed, risen Savior who gave up everything for me. It’s time to live for Jesus, because he died for you. Let’s start this adventure together & see what our heavenly Father has in store!

Love,
-Bess-

There’s perhaps no time like Easter to invite someone to church (except maybe Christmas). It’s true {& sad} that many people only go to church twice a year. It’s also sad {& true} that many of us who follow Christ don’t invite these “two-timers,” “one-timers,” or “no-timers” to church. I recently heard on the radio that when a major Christian survey group polled believers with a question something like ‘Do you share your faith with others?’ a large number responded positively. However, when the question was later reworded to something like ‘Are you evangelistic with your faith?’ the numbers dropped dramatically. You see, after some investigation, many were backing up their answers with these faulty thoughts: ‘people know I go to church;’ ‘people know I’m a Christian.’ When the words were changed to mean ‘Do you tell others about Jesus?’ the truth seemed to float to the surface.

You know, it’s not always the easiest thing to share the gospel, but it’s what God has called us to do. I’m sure it wasn’t the easiest thing for our Lord to give up His only Son to a world that didn’t deserve it. If you are a Christian, His strength is in you, & He will help you find the words to say to this world on His behalf. The world aches for His love, whether they know it or not.

For the 1st challenge, all that is asked is that you ask someone to church for Easter. It could be a classmate, friend, neighbor, perfect stranger at the shopping mall {not a store dummy}… So, let’s start to live out our faith. Be sure to be armed with the time(s) of your church’s service(s), address, & phone number… in fact, why not right it on a card to hand out?

If you complete this challenge & want to share your experiences please leave a comment on this post! I’ll be sharing my experiences, as well. I think I might invite my neighbor. Let’s share the Love that’s given us the hope to continue on.

In Christ,
-Bess-

P.S.: Here's the perfect song to begin again...

Easter Bucket Updo Mini Tutorial {+ Bunny Gifts}

2011-04-19T12:08:00.000-07:00

So, do you still have an old pail used for the Easter egg hunts of yester yore {I’m in a poetic mood here}? Well, let’s give it a more mature update, shall we? I promise it’s easy-peasy. Whose idea was it anyway to give egg hunts an age limit? At my church it’s little ones through elementary… Oh, well, we’ll just make our ole buckets extra cute, put a bunch of lovely blooms from our Creator in ‘em {okay, my are silk flowers}, & use ‘em to spruce up our room or porch! I pine for these! {Now, I’m in an Arbor/Earth Day mood, oak-ay!} Sorry, couldn’t resist! Yes, I may need some kind of comical, or other such, therapy. Sorry.

P.S.: Psst! We may be past the egg hunts, but below you’ll find some bunny-themed gift ideas just right for us.

What You’ll Need:
-bucket or basket
-ribbon (I used 2 types)
-large sticker or cutout
-hot glue gun
-buttons (optional)

Here’s What to Do:
-Find the ribbon(s) you want & rehearse the layout on your Easter pail. I used a wider purple grosgrain paired with a skinny green grosgrain.

-For a pail like the one I used (by the way, it’s from Michael’s ($1)), it’s hard to wrap the ribbon all the way around the bucket snuggly, because of the way the pail is shaped, so I cut ribbon to go about half (or a little more) around the bucket.

-Next, I glued the ribbons down using hot glue at the ends of each ribbon & a couple places in the middle of both the purple & green ribbons. If you only wrapped your ribbon halfway around your pail (like I did), you can hot glue 2 pretty buttons to each raw edge end of the ribbons.

-Hot glue your large sticker or cutout onto your pail. I centered mine & placed it directly onto the ribbons.

-Add flowers & enjoy! Viola! An easy Easter update!

Love,
-Bess-

Easter bunnies are sweet, but Jesus is the sweetest!

ring - ModCloth - $9.99
ring holder - Urban Outfitters - $12
umbrella - TopShop - $30
pouch - Mulberry
salad mixer - ModCloth - $15

"Max on Life" Book Review

2011-04-18T09:30:00.000-07:00

We all have questions, this much I know. Perhaps one of the greatest subject areas for questions is the spiritual – Why does God let us suffer? Does God listen when I pray? Where will I go when I die? How do we know God exists? In Max Lucado’s new book Max on Life: Answers & Insights to Your Most Important Questions, the author takes all the question marks & seeks to render the reader a period. The questions covered in the book have all been asked the author at one time or another, & are divided up into the following categories: Hope, Hurt, Help, Him/Her, Home, Haves/Have-Nots, Hereafter. There are a total of 172 questions in all, with most answers being about a page in length, plus both a topical & scripture index. Max (the title suggests he’s a 1st name basis kind of guy) digs up the scripture to aide are question-asking-selves, plus puts his Biblically-minded thoughts in common understandable terms. He often asks the asker to change their perspective on a head scratching situation or predicament. By no means does he claim to have all the answers, but Max does know the One who has it all figured out – the Creator, & even when we don’t understand, he ensures us that God does. Reading the book I’ve found a renewed sense of peace, purpose, & strength through Christ. As a believer, the author has often reminded me of things I already know, but his wording has made me see the truth in a more take-it-to-heart & live sort of way. I can definitely see God’s hand using Max’s… oh, & heads up to all those fellow would be writers that want to write with an eternal purpose, after the last question Max gives us all some “penning” advice in a section called “The Write Stuff.” Not only does this book answer questions, but it gives advice to scribblers! What more could you want?

Note: The section entitled “Him/Her” deals with relationship/marital questions, & because of this, I believe this book is best for older young adults on up.

*I received this book from the publisher for free (through the BookSneeze program) in exchange for my honest review.

Bookish Blessings,
-Bess-

P.S.: I'm glad our heavenly Father has got this thing called life covered... & us, His children, safe under His wings.

Song Love: "Here Goes" by Bebo Norman

2011-04-16T11:09:00.000-07:00

These words are so true...

"Never got anywhere by running away -
Never learned anything without a mistake -
Never loved anyone by playing it safe..."

-"Here Goes" by Bebo Norman

"Here goes everything!"
-Bess-

Those who want to save their lives will give up true life, & those who give up their lives for Me will have true life.
-Matthew 16:25 NCV (emphasis mine)

I can do all things through Christ, because He gives me strength.
-Philippians 4:13 NCV (emphasis mine)

It's Hip to be Square Wreath Tutorial

2011-04-05T11:36:00.000-07:00

Have I mentioned my angst against a computerless apartment? Oh. I have? Okay, I’ll try to stop, because I really do have loads of blessings + a heavenly Daddy who loves me. {So who needs to complain? Sigh. I just miss you guys (i.e. gals)!}

I’ve so missed creating tutorials on here, too! So, let’s begin – shall we?

It’s Hip to be Square Wreath Tutorial

What You’ll Need:

-frame (without glass or backing)

-twine

-silk flowers

-sticker

-scrapbook paper

-hot glue gun

Directions:

It all happened one day as I was strolling through my favorite thrift shop... There’s an aisle devoted to pictures/frames…& more often than not there’s picture frames without glass or backing. What can you do with those? Hmmm… My mind started turning & this tutorial was born!

-Begin to wrap the twine tightly around the frame {*starting near one corner*}, securing the end of the twine with hot glue, & hot gluing every so often.

-Wrap corners carefully, planning them out before you add any hot glue. I sort of went at an angle & then brought it to the other side & started right after the corner – thus some of my bare frame corners show, but I will later cover them with silk flowers or a sticker. {As this was my 1st time crafting wreaths from frames, I’m still working on some of the process.} =)

-Add silk blooms to the frame with hot glue + a sticker, with a scrapbook paper matte {cut slightly larger than the sticker} on a piece of cardboard.

Ta da! You could add a loop of ribbon to hang it if you’d prefer, or just hang it with a wreath hanger. There’s so many variations to this, too! Here’s some more ideas:

Wrap frame in…

-ribbon; scraps of fabric; wire; lace; burlap; spray paint it…

Embellishments…

-photos; seashells; buttons; pompoms; brooches; bows; house numbers; paint; faux butterflies/birds…

It is hip to be square!

Love,

-Bess-

P.S.: My back-less, glass-less frame cost only about 30 cents at the thrift store!

Spring Beauty Picks

2011-04-02T14:35:00.000-07:00

Bess' Notes: Items marked with an *asterisk* are ones I've tried myself.

*1. Country Chic is Bath & Body Works new spring fragrance - available April 14th. Currently you can try it in mini lotion form for $1! I was able to preview this scent in a full size lotion {which I've been using happily for the last couple weeks}! Country Chic is a sweet fragrance; it's got lovely floral notes without being a complete overpowering flower power punch. {You know what I mean?} Hints of citrus & woods balance it well. I love it! It smells like spring, drizzled gardens, & sunshine rays {well, at least to me}!

2. For warmer weather, spf lip balm is the perfect choice to protect your lips while adding some tint/shine. This one has an spf of 20 + it's from the makers of Vitamin Water, so it's got some good stuff in it to boot!

3. I love this coral-y pink nail polish color for spring {in any brand}! It reminds me of an impromptu picnic & the paler shades of a watermelon slice! {I believe the color shown here is called 'Cute as a Button.'}

*4. Nivea makes great stuff, & this no-sun gradul tanning + firming lotion is no exception! You can choose the lotion designed for your skin shade + desired tan {I chose light to medium, I think}. I could definitely see my skin become sun-kissed {light-medium glow} - I used it on my legs about every day for a week & the color did deepen with each application. The only problem areas were the ankles, feet, & knees where the color would sort of be darker or uneven...but once I knew that I could be more careful of those spots. I love that this lotion gives you a sunny look without the damange of the rays!

5. Physians Formula Mineral Wear loose air brush powder promises a skin pleasing effect - not only does it go on smoothly, but it's good for your skin + it has an spf of 30!

Love to Ya Beautiful,
-Bess-

TRUE BEAUTY: "Charm is deceptive & beauty is fleeting, but a woman who fears the LORD will be praised."
Proverbs 31:30

Nest Feathering: TV Stand DIY

2011-03-24T14:44:00.000-07:00

I’ve come to a realization. My apartment’s a forever-work-in-progress. I’m not going to be able to get everything “just so” so that I can show you around in one humongous post…it’s simply not possible {well, it’s possible, but scurrying about to get it all presentable may send me over the cuckoo’s nest}. So, I’ve decided to show you the progress – bit by bit, feather by feather. It’s funny, with all these bird analogies flying about =) that, indeed, my apartment does have a decidedly feather-friendly design element. I’ve always loved the simple, poetic, magical quality of birds… so I’ve sprinkled them about the house in various ways.

Here’s my latest DIY project... {I am getting quite excited by interior decorating – you should see me dance about when I see a design show on tv with fabulous ideas!}

My mom found this great tv stand for me at a yard sale for $8! It’s got great storage cubby holes on each side + in front. I wasn’t sure about the black shiny paint job, however. My original plan was to have mostly white furniture… Hmmm… Then I looked about me…on the walls were pics I’d put up in black frames {one even has a big black bow surrounding it}. I decided mixing the 2 colors wouldn’t be so bad. I thought it might even look neat, since the tv I bought {yes, I bought my 1st tv} is white, of all things. A trip to Michael’s soon after the epiphany, gave me an even greater one! At the front of the store was a big sign 7 for $1, & underneath were piles & piles of scrapbooking paper {a weakness of mine}. After digging in the pile for quite an embarrassing amount of time, I came to the check out with 7 different papers {I stopped myself from purchasing more} =), one of which was black, white, & even sported a cute birdie (see below).

After my crafting mind got into gear, I discovered the shiny black & white birdie paper would look great on the front blah panels of my tv stand. I rushed back to the store the next day & got more sheets, measured & trimmed to size, & affixed using pieces of wall sticker backings that I glued to the back of the scrapbook paper & then peeled the backing off & stuck on (so it can be removed without damage) {I love removable wall stickers, by the way, but more about that in another post.}. So, with 14 cent pieces of scrapbook paper {I’d say easily less than $1 for all} I updated my $8 tv stand into something quite snazzy {well, I think so} =)! What do you think?

Mini DIY project…
I love having plants inside! The big palm I bought came in a plain black plastic pot, which wasn’t very attractive, so I found a woven placemat at a thrift store, cut it to the height of the pot & hot glued it to the sides. It didn’t reach all the way around, but thankfully {& sneakily} it doesn’t have to as the back of it is towards the wall.

Love from the Nest Feathering,
-Bess-

P.S.: If you’re wondering about my tv antenna, it’s a strange one that has room for a photo. I was sick of looking at the fake photo frame models, so I cut more of the scrapbook paper & put it in.

P.P.S.: How do you like the blog's new look? {Notice the bird theme - yep, it comes full circle - home & blog.} =)

Instant Chic: Scarf Styling {With ModCloth Videos}

2011-03-21T12:33:00.000-07:00

There's something very Audrey Hepburn about scarves...& if Audrey isn't "instant chic" than I don't know who is! Amber, my great blogging pal {who I love sooo much} & sister-in-Christ, asked for a post on scarves & how to wear them. This is for you, Amber. {Hope you all like it, too, as a silk scarf is the lead favorite springtime accessory so far, according to this month's Girl Talk Poll!}

Bess' Notes: Last spring, I created a scarf post with even more ideas {including how to wear them as tops}. Visit here!

Neck Tying Lessons...

Bess' Notes: The tutorial below is entitled "Winter Scarves," but could definitely be used for lightweight or sheer spring & summer-evening scarves.

Head Tying Lessons...

...Silk scarves as seen on DKNY's ready to wear spring 2011 collection.

Springtime Love,

-Bess-

Dear Japanese Sisters (& Brothers)

2011-03-16T10:21:00.000-07:00

There are days in my own life when I wonder how I could ever make it through without the love, hope, & strength Jesus gives… & I’ve gone through nothing like the natural disasters of an earthquake & tsunami. So, dear Japanese sisters (& brothers), I pray you know Jesus as your Lord & that it gives you a “peace that passes understanding”* during this horrific time of loss, pain, & fear. God is with you & has never left, even when the waters rise & rage. Know we hurt for you, love, & pray for you daily. This path is hard, but it will not last forever. God will lift up your head. And, if you do not know Jesus as your Savior... if you have never been told about him…

Every person on this vast planet has sinned. We are all sinners because God’s standard is perfection, which we can’t reach. We have all done many of these offences (which are some of the sins we commit) (often repeatedly): lied, hated others, thought mean thoughts, lusted after another, stole, hurt others, hurt ourselves. We are all broken on our own, & nothing we can do can fix us. The penalty for sin is death, which means we should die if justice was given for our behavior. But, praise be to God, that the mighty God gave his own Son, Jesus, who was perfect & blameless, to die for us – everyone, every sin (no matter how horrific). When Jesus died on the cross, He took the death which should have been our own & vanquished it forever; He took our sin & with His death has forgiven us of all the wrong we’ve done. Now, we have the hope & promise of eternal life with our true Lord – in this special place no more pain will be felt, no more tears will fall, no more sins will be committed by or against us. We will be new & whole & in a place of amazing love, because we will be with God who made & loves us. But, God has given us the free will to make our own decisions, if we do not accept Jesus Christ as our Savior, follow & obey His Holy Word which is the Bible, strive to live anew, seeking to leave our sinful ways of the past behind, & striving to please & live our lives for Him (which doesn’t mean we won’t sin again, but that we will try our best to do right & to know Christ has covered our sins & will forgive them when we confess & ask Him). You must do more than just believe in God, because even the devil does that, you must obey what His Word tells you to about becoming one of His followers. When you become a Christian, God changes you & gives you the gift of the Holy Spirit, which guides & helps you along the way. He comes into your life & fills the void that you couldn’t fix on your own. With the Lord you now have peace, purpose, hope, love, strength to make it through (because He is in your heart) & forgiveness of the wrong you’ve done. It’s amazing!

When we were unable to help ourselves, at the moment of our need, Christ died for us, although we were living against God. Very few people will die to save the life of someone else. Although perhaps for a good person someone might possibly die. But God shows His great love for us in this way: Christ died for us while we were still sinners. -Romans 5:6-8

Peter said to them, "Change your hearts & lives & be baptized, each one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. This promise is for you, for your children, & for all who are far away. It is for everyone the Lord our God calls to Himself." -Acts 2:38-39

But these are written so that you may believe that Jesus is Christ, the Son of God. Then, by believing, you may have life through His name. -John 20:31

Please visit the Good News page & read through all the scriptures – there is hope for our terminal human condition.
We love you all so much! I which I could fly over & wrap my arms around you & cry with you & do something to help ease your pain. Know that my prayers are being lifted to our perfect God who will not leave you. I pray earnestly you will choose Him if you have not.

Love Your Sister in Christ,
-Bess-

*from Philippians 4:7

Modest Spring Runway Rundown {Dolce & Gabbana}

2011-03-11T14:52:00.000-08:00

Oh, how I love these looks from Dolce & Gabbana's spring ready-to-wear collection! The white lacey frocks are some of my favorites this spring! Aren't they amazing? They remind me of little white dresses from my childhood.

Bess' Frugalista Tips:

Add a plethora of vintage & new gold (or otherwise) pins to a crocheted bag to achieve the eclectic beauty shown above!
Layer on your chains, charm necklaces, & lockets.
Add a belt to your look (place near your bellybutton or a little above).

Love & Loveliness to You From Your Sister,
-Bess-

"The Truth About Dating, Love & Just Being Friends" Book Review

2011-03-11T14:23:00.000-08:00

Hey girls, I've got a book to recommend...

The Truth About Dating, Love & Just Being Friends by Chad Eastham

Yep, that’s some long title Eastham thought up, huh? It’s even longer if you look past the three little dots – okay, here’s the entire title of Chad Eastham’s book: The Truth About Dating, Love & Just Being Friends… & How Not to be Miserable as a Teenager Because Life is Short, & Seriously, Things Don’t Magically get Better After High School & Lots of Other Important Stuff, But We’ll Get to that Later… That sums up the book pretty well, however. It’s a tome geared toward teenagers & young adults (the Milleys, as the author calls us – those in the Millennial Generation (born anywhere from 1980-2000))…those in middle & high school are the main target, though, I’d say. I’m an older Millenial, myself, but I have to say, I truly enjoyed reading the relationship advice & wisdom found in Mr. Eastham’s pages. He puts things clearly, truthfully, & with godly encouragement (though in a non-pushy way, which makes this book great for a non-believing friend you want to witness to)… Oh, did I mention he’s quite funny, too? Well, he is – so you won’t be bored reading about “Dating, Factoids, & Quark-Gluon Plasma” (one of his chapter titles). He’ll hit you up with some of the strangest facts ever – seemingly unrelated to dating, relationships, & love on the surface – but he takes you deeper, & you come from the book not only better prepared for the relationships of life (friendship & romantic) but also smarter. For instance, did you know coconut liquid is a universal blood donor? Yep, Chad’s made me one smart girl. I love how in the chapter entitled “Why This Book Could Be Stupid” (stay with me here), he humbly explains that this book can’t answer all the complexities of relationships – you need to use what you know, too, & keep learning. Chad doesn’t have all the answers (as he’s confessed) - only God does – but he undoubtedly has wisdom teens & anyone else willing to read can glean from. From advice on how to tell whether someone from the opposite sex is attracted to you, to the myths of “just being friends,” to answers for our vampire/zombie/werewolf/weird obsessed culture… Chad helps guide you through the often crazy waters of relationships with a God-loving voice.

*I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publishers through the BookSneeze program, in exchange for my honest review.

Bookish Blessings,
-Bess-