Tuesday's Top Ten PLUS Ten: Events that Changed My Life

Tuesdays are the busiest day of the week for me. From 7am-9pm with a lunch hour, I have 5 different activites to bounce to and from. But this topic has been good for me, because I realize that every moment-even the busy mundane ones-shape my life. They may not be gigantic crucial events, but big or small it's all with a purpose. So without further ado, here are the events that have changed my life.

 1. Salvation
Without a doubt, nothing could have been more life changing than being saved from death and hell. It will forevermore be the most effective of events in my life.


2. Gracie
Going on 6 years ago, my little sister Gracie went to be with Jesus. Such a crazy and traumatic event changed things for my whole family, as you can imagine much would never be the same. But I wholeheartedly believe that every single ripple effect and the event itself was purposed and controlled by God.

3. Meeting My Best Friend
Looking back on it now, I never expected the 11 year old kids goofing around at the pool to become what we have. But that moment has changed so much, and resulted in something I wouldn't trade for the world. In the same category as meeting, would also be the choices that we have made to protect and build our relationship. You can read more about that here.

4. New Church

A few years ago my family started a new journey at a church closer to home, and since then much has changed. With focus on discipleship, growing, and journeying together for God's glory-we have all seen many positive improvements. The girl I was before, compared to the girl I am now is hardly the same at all.

5. Surprise Sister
When I was about 13 our family found out that my mom was having another baby. None of us expected it, with the oldest being 23 and the youngest 10-our house was quiet and becoming grown-up. In many ways things altered to fit a new baby. Now there is more chaos and snot-noses and dolls everywhere, but I love it! :)

6. Homeschooling
This school year will be the 3rd that my family has spent homeschooling. It has changed almost every aspect of our days, and enabled us to spend more time together and be more intentional with our education. It is definitely the choice for me. You can read more on our experience here.

I hate to leave you hanging..but due to the fact that I am only 16 years old, I have a whole adulthood life ahead of me (Lord willing) that I am sure will be filled with many life changing ups and downs. So, for the time being-I will leave the list incomplete. I'll get back to you in a decade or two :)

Don't forget to hop on over to BecKyle's page to read her list as well! Happy Tuesday, thanks for reading.. catch you next week!

Tuesday's Top Ten PLUS Ten: Decorating Tips

I love to decorate rooms! In fact, every time I set foot inside of an antique mall, hobby lobby, TJ Maxx or anything alike..I find myself wishing I was an adult with a house, because I'd have more rooms to embellish! And you definitely don't want to miss BecKyle's list this week, because she is a master at this kind of thing. You will be inspired for sure.

1. Don't be afraid to widen your color pallet! A room does not have to be just black and blue, instead try different shades or colors entirely! Things will fit together much more nicely than you might think.

2. Also along the lines of your color pallet..if you're starting fresh, consider this: Don't just go for favorite colors, but for colors according to the mood you'd like that room to have.

3. One thing I have learned, and had much fun finding out..is that print on print is NOT a sin! Have fun with those patterns and you won't regret it! Take these colorful patchwork cushions for example..

4. Give a room character by adding some dimension. My favorite example of this is a multi-dimensional wall collage. Love them.

5. If you have a fairly plain room, add a pop or two of color, it will bring everything out! Just like a black and white outfit with red shoes will make a statement, so would a room with a bright piece or two!

6. Make sure the space is functional. Any room can look nice, but if it has to be "just so" to make an impact, you may want to rethink your plans. Whether it is clever storage, or simply traditional ideas, make sure your room is livable, otherwise, what's the point? You'll constantly be fidgeting with it.

7. If you're bored with a room, rearrange it! Sometimes a more genius design is staring you in the face! You don't need any new pieces, and it can freshen things up more than you might think! 

8. Use candles, wax warmers, or just a pie in the oven to make any room feel more homey and luxurious. Not only does the brain associate memories to scents, but it can spruce things up with little-to-no effort! 

9. Paint that thing. You know that thing. The one that you don't want to get rid of but just doesn't quite fit. Or maybe paint the thing that could use some freshening. Or paint the thing that could be your pop of color. Just paint the thing. It will transform the room.

10. If you don't already, try your hand at thrift shopping and DIY! I find the hunt and the challenge fun, not to mention frugal and unique! There is something for everyone if you search for it! That is-in my opinion- the easiest way to personalize a room and really make it yours.

Thanks for reading! Don't forget to hop on over to BecKyle's list as well..you won't regret it!