looking forward.

Good evening!
I woke up feeling so content. Luke & I shared breakfast at Uprise Bakery- a weekly ritual for us- and had great conversation. The raspberry & poppy seed scone was mouthwatering & very satisfying. The rest of the day was spent working & rearranging the store. I enjoy & actually, I love my job. Isn’t that such a rarity? I’m blessed.
As for the weekend, I look forward to having no plans- a mini vacation at home with my best friend. It is so special to feel like I’m on vacation at home just because my best friend is in town; after seeing her I feel so refreshed & renewed.
We might bake {this} or talk a lot about {this}.
Whatever we do, it will be wonderful.
I bought a roll of film & I’m ready for many adventures!
& before I leave I want to share with you {this}.
Also, I hope to some day capture life through the lens like {this}.
love,
Natalie
ps. Luke & I found the perfect CSA. The farmer offers fresh, local eggs & small fruits- blackberries & raspberries. I hope we are chosen!

this day.

In the wee hours of the morning, I woke up very ill. I spent most of my morning heavy-eyed, dizzy & weak. By mid-morning, I felt much better- I believe it was something I ate or a 24 hour stomach flu of sorts.
I called Luke & he spent the morning with me, holding me while I ached & moaned. I’ve always felt so much comfort when I’ve been surrounded by others; their presence reassures me that I’m cared for. I woke up & he had made me toast & green tea. He’s so good! After he left, I spent the rest of my morning reflecting & focusing on the power of forgiveness.

I took some time to make these earrings, too. I love beading for myself & others. I love the organic, free-flowing shapes of the wire up & around the beads. I never have two earrings alike. I enjoy that about my art; their imperfections make me so happy.

I also took some time to bake. These carrot cookies from Simply In Season are delicious but a little light for the winter. I think they would be most appropriate in the summer- only if carrots were in season during the summer.

After fieldwork at a high school, I took a bath and then headed over to Luke’s. There was a package awaiting & we were both eager to open it! Luke’s mom filled the package with lovely Valentine’s Day goodies, & Madelyn (Luke’s sister) decorated heart-shaped cookies. I love receiving packages & it is so encouraging to be included in the love that Luke’s family shares.

In keeping with the calm & peaceful day, Luke & I walked around his neighborhood & onto a trail Jess told Luke about. It’s so great to have a trail with so much charm so near to us. We walked about & around the hills, skipped stones, & paused to reflect on the season. We spotted tiny hits of green along our walk & talked of aspirations for the summer. I look forward to planning our garden!

Now, I’m relaxing & making a mental to-do list. I’m overwhelmed with the joy that tomorrow is Thursday- one day closer to the weekend & one day closer to a weekend full of conversation & knitting & baking with my best friend! Tori, I cannot wait to see you! 
& before I go, I must share with you {this}.
I officially want to move to Vermont!
love,
Natalie

{light & love}




Where did the day go? I woke up, made some breakfast, & went to Uprise. The next time I looked at the clock, it was 5 & I had an exam.  Overall, my day was enjoyable. 
I also wanted to share with you {Compassion International}. Last Sunday, Luke & I adopted a five year old girl from Rwanda. I am so excited to send her letters & small packages full of stickers, coloring books & crayons. 
I hope you all have a wonderful evening. I’m going to spend mine knitting & baking cookies.
love, 
Natalie