Porch Swings & Sunsets

moved

2011-01-16T16:46:00.006-06:00

I've made the giant move across the pond and now my blog is moving too. Please follow me to caitlinrodgersblog.com . Merci, and I'll see you there!

-Caitlin

one more step

2011-01-07T13:07:00.000-06:00

Sam: This is it.
Frodo: This is what?
Sam: If I take one more step, it'll be the farthest away from home I've ever been.
---
Frodo: Come on, Sam.
(Lord of the Rings)

Today, I'm taking that step as I follow my heart to Paris. Nervous? Yes. Will I miss you? Oh, yes, but this is it. And away I go.

almost there

2011-01-06T10:27:00.001-06:00

via

So many loose ends and a world of packing to do. I've had such a great time the last few days seeing friends one more time, yet even with all the goodbyes already, I can't believe it's almost here. Most of my brain is concentrated on the unending list of things to do and pack while trying not to freak out at what I'm about to do, but deep down, I'm jumping up and down with glee. Almost there...

rose parade

2011-01-06T09:40:00.004-06:00

Early morning start. Five layers of clothing. Famous California sun. A million strangers. 18 million roses. The Tournament of Roses Parade was such a beautiful way to start the new year.

theme

2011-01-01T07:58:00.001-06:00

This is your time
This is your dance
Live every moment
Leave nothing to chance
Swim in the sea
Drink of the deep
Embrace the mystery of all you can be
This is your time -Michael W. Smith

A good theme for this beautiful new year. I have a deep feeling it's going to be a tremendous one. Thank you, God for the gift of another year. You are so gracious and loving; my heart is whole because of you.

a rosy 2011

2011-01-01T07:56:00.002-06:00

What do you get when you put 18 million roses, Paula Dean, and a very early California morning together? My morning at the Pasadena Rose Bowl Parade! Happy New Year, y'all!

dear 2010

2010-12-31T19:21:00.001-06:00

Dear 2010,

I can't believe we've reached the end. How crazy is this? You are a year I'd tried to avoid with all my might (who do I think I am?) but you came and now are leaving and I'm still standing, well, really thriving. You watched me love my final semester at Baylor with all my might and saw my grapple with post-grad existence. You were a year to learn much, cry a lot, live it up, dream big, pray, try, and grow. Thanks for being you.

All my love,

Caitlin

countdown: the end is near

2010-12-31T19:08:00.001-06:00

I've bought this photograph last August before I started my senior year of college. Normally, I steer away from the obvious, uber classical Parisian decorations, but this photograph is huge, I really needed something to take up wall space, and for whatever other reasons, I couldn't say no. Up it went and every day since I've stared at it; on days that I didn't want to leave college, on days when I wondered what I would do after college, on graduation day, on days when I doubted I'd ever move on, on days that I prayed and waited for the future, and on days when I held my breath as I waited to hear back from AUP. What I realized a few weeks after being accepted at AUP, while yet again staring at the photo, is that the area of Paris featured in the photo is roughly the same neighborhood as AUP. Seriously. Perhaps just a block of two away, maybe you can even see the tops of some of their buildings, my answer was right there in front of me the whole time. I have to wonder if God was just smiling at me, all those many days when I questioned and doubted my future, knowing that it was right in front of me. The last six months have been an exquisite, sometimes painful journey as God has faithfully chiseled away at my heart, my fears, my focus, and much more. Allowing me, I believe, to be here, one week away from Paris, and ready. It's incredible. God is so good.

cali, here we come

2010-12-28T07:41:00.002-06:00

I'm off today to California with my parents to tag along as they visit on official Optimist business. I've never been to southern California and I'm excited. It's mind boggling that when we get back, the race will be on to prepare for my grand departure. I'm hoping to stay in the moment each day of the trip and let tomorrow's worries take care of themselves.

While we're in Cali, we'll be attending the Rose Bowl Parade. The only parades I've ever been to have been Baylor Homecoming's and while they are the largest of all collegiate parades, something tells me I'm in for a beautiful treat. Did you know that all together the floats in the Rose Bowl Parade are decorated with roughly 18 million roses? Fingers crossed for bright Cali skies. Have a happy Tuesday.

via

big move

2010-12-27T23:07:00.001-06:00

How was your Christmas? My Christmast included lots of loved ones, too much delicious food, and a new blog. Yes, you read that right. Dear friends gifted me a beautiful new blog to chronicle my big move (which if you've lost track, is a week and a half away!!). I've decided to time the big blog switch with my across the pond move. In the mean time, while I get it ready, you can preview the new blog here.

go tell it

2010-12-25T08:45:00.002-06:00

Go tell it on the mountain
Over the hill and everywhere.
Go tell it on the mountain
that Jesus Christ is born.
Hallelujah.

Praising King Jesus that He was willing to become baby Jesus in the hopes that my heart would one day be restored. Hallelujah. He is born.

A very Merry Christmas to you and yours.

the message

2010-12-24T14:26:00.001-06:00

Whenever I think about the night Christ was born, my mind wanders to the shepherds. Alone in the fields and watching their flocks, their worlds were rocked in an instant. Light busted into the dark and that was it; their lives had been changed. So they hurried off and found Mary and Joesph, and the baby, who was lying in the manger. When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child, and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them. Luke 2:16-18

For the rest of their lives, I'm sure none of them could ever forget or stop celebrating what they witnessed that night. Glorious, holy, special. They had been chosen to receive the exciting message and so have we.

A heavenly host of angles may have never filled the night sky before your eyes, it hasn't happened to me either, but God is trying to catch hold of our hearts every moment. It's incredible. God so wants us to know that Jesus came for us. This season, the true celebration of Christmas, is all about Jesus coming to Earth to live and die for us, so that if we believe in Him and that He died to save us, we will live- truly and wholly as we were created to be. We were meant for so much more than what this world wants to give us. Let's celebrate that and the hope Christ-mas give us. Merry Christmas Eve.

countdown: noel

2010-12-24T13:58:00.001-06:00

via

Paperwork and transactions are complete.
All is calm. All is bright.
Two weeks, Paris.
Until then, Joyeux Noel.

good tidings

2010-12-21T12:19:00.000-06:00

Christmas cards are by far one of my favorite things about the holiday season. I know some people think the tradition is outdated, but as I tear open envelopes that have crisscrossed the country and world to arrive at my doorstep,many of their authors are brought a little closer to my mind and heart, bringing with them a flowing river memories. There's really something wonderful about sitting down to read the adventures, traditions, celebrations, lessons, love, faith, and even heartache and failures that others have experienced in the past year. It draws us all a little closer together and there are few things I want more than that, during the Christmas season.

of thee i sing

2010-12-21T11:23:00.001-06:00

"Have I told you lately how wonderful you are?
How the sound of your feet
running from afar
brings dancing rhythms to my day?
How you laugh
and sunshine spills into the room?" -Of Thee I Sing by Barack Obama

Have you seen President Obama's Of Thee I Sing: A Letter to My Daughters? The book, beautifully illustrated by Loren Long, is a letter of love and encouragement from the President to his daughters about possibility and achievement. Chronicling American thinkers, artists, leaders, and dreamers, he encourages his daughters that they too, have great possibility in themselves.

Preview the book here. It certainly would be a great gift for any kid...or anyone with great dreams.

farwell, autumn

2010-12-20T11:44:00.002-06:00

via

"Delicious autumn! My very soul is wedded to it, and if I were a bird I would fly about the earth seeking the successive autumns."
-George Eliot

Autumn,
Today is your last day with us, did you know? Your big brother, Winter, is on his way. You may have heard rumors that he's a lot harsher than you...it's true. Don't get me wrong, there are a few good things about him; in fact,I love Kyle Dunn's take on it. Let's look on the bright side: did you know that the next time we meet, I'll be in Paris? Yeah, I'm excited too. See you then.
-Caitlin

the grand gesture

2010-12-19T23:57:00.002-06:00

Christmas is the beginning of the big gesture. This isn't where the great love story began and it's certainly not where it ends but it is the beginning of Jesus' grand gesture. He came to Earth, to live as one among His own so that He could take care of His own. When I think of the night Jesus was born, I imagine a hush coming over the world, like a blanket thrown over a bed; earth a reverent witness to its Maker coming to live with His creation.

That's the place I want my heart to rest this week: quiet reverence. Lately, my mind has been very focused on January 7th. My thoughts circle around and around that day, like a penny in a well waiting to finally drop. I've failed to take time to truly celebrate the joy of Christmas and I want this week to settle into gleeful celebration of the hope and grand gesture that is Christmas.

I hope this week, you too will be able to take time out, despite the hustle of shopping, cooking, traveling and whatever else life might bring, to celebrate and honor the anniversary of the ultimate gesture of love: your Creator and Champion coming for you. You are loved and known by King Jesus, whether you realize it or not. The gesture has been made, it's up to each of us to choose how to respond.

The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the One and Only, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth. John 1:14

trend shmend

2010-12-17T12:35:00.001-06:00

I don't care that I've fallen in line with the bateau shirt craze. In fact, I'd proudly be the line leader. Franchement, I'm in love with these striped shirts and you can't take them from me. Now that that's out of the way, you can understand why I find this little timeline dedicated to the obsession, found over at Chance, charmant.

countdown: un(e) américain(e) à paris

2010-12-17T11:53:00.002-06:00

That's me...in three weeks.

In an interview this week, Diane von Furstenburg said the best advice she ever got was, “Fear is not an option.” I’m adopting it as my mantra. Anytime that my heart starts to flutter at the thought of what’s to come three weeks from today, I'm telling myself that fear is not an option....because it's not. Joy, excitement, relief, disbelief, wonder, humbleness, even mixed-feelings about leaving home and the ones I love...those are allowed, welcomed even, but fear, however is not invited to this party.

delicious reads

2010-12-17T11:18:00.002-06:00

If you're still looking for a gift to give or just a pleasure read for your Christmas holiday, I'm sharing two of my favorite books I read this year. To say the very least, they're both delicious reads.

In A Homemade Life, Molly Wizenburg invites you into her kitchen, her life and her heart, which are often one and the same. One book review I read perfectly described the reading experience like this: You won't know whether to start the next chapter or run to the store to start cooking. And they were exactly right. Molly has incredible ease with her prose and unabashedly writes her best, worst, and most intimate moments in life- perfectly tying a favorite recipe with each chapter. The book is an absolute pleasure to read. In fact, when recommending the book to a friend, I promised that if she didn't like it, I would buy the book from her...still haven't heard from that friend. Bet you she's reading or cooking...

David Lebovitz, a food writer and cookbook author, lived in San Fransisco for twenty years before moving to Paris. The Sweet Life in Paris is a laugh out loud, take no prisoners depiction of life among the natives in the City of Light that leaves you thinking, "Oh my gosh. Is it really like that?" Lebovitz has a reporter's knack for observation and details with a wit and sharp edge to match. The result is a savory chronicle of the always glorious, sometimes confounding food, tradition and life of Paris

o colored lights, family-ornamented, memory laden christmas tree

2010-12-13T10:22:00.006-06:00

My dad and I finally put our Christmas tree up last night. When my brother and I were younger, it was a competition to see who could rummage through the ornament boxes fastest to find our favorite ornaments first. Today, the process is a little more subdued: my dad does the lights and me the ornaments while mom comes in and out to give helpful critiques here and there. I used to wonder why we didn't have an elegant, color coordinated Christmas tree- the kind you see on TV and in magazines. They're just so beautiful, so clean looking, so...organized. If we did that though, we would lose the history that we hang on every branch. Ornaments my brother and I made in elementary school, ornaments that nod to our personalities, our loves, our faith, and our travels. The tree is a reflection of us- and I love that. So once again, as we turn out all lights in the house to gaze upon the tiny twinkling ones of our tree, we celebrate not only the Christmas season, but our family as well.

countdown: q&a

2010-12-10T12:13:00.003-06:00

via

Trans-Atlantic flight? Booked.

Countdown to departure? 4 weeks.

Becoming a tad anxious in both good and bad ways? Most definitely.

Am I going to do this whether or not I'm nervous? Absolutely.

home again

2010-12-10T11:57:00.005-06:00

Ever see lost pet signs posted around your neighborhood? I don't know about you, but they just about break my heart. My dog once escaped the backyard for an hour and I fell to pieces. That's why I was so excited by these posters around my neighborhood yesterday.

A point for the home team.

the alexis lesson

2010-12-10T11:39:00.002-06:00

As the days and weeks dwindle down to my departure date, there’s only one thing I’m truly nervous about. It’s not learning a new city, it’s not submerging myself in a new culture and language, and it’s not even going back to school. It’s building a new community of friends to do life with. Truth is, I don't have the best track record with this. Have you ever heard the story of how I met Alexis, my college roommate?

Picture it: move-in day at Baylor. I had just said a tearful good-bye to the parents and walked back to my new dorm room to find it empty. Experiencing a bite of loneliness already, I gazed around my new room trying to take it in. Not ten minutes later, a knock sounded on the door and I opened it to find a red haired, blue-eyed, big smiled girl. Having been told by Sarah (a family friend to Alexis and future sister-in-law to me) that we had to meet, Alexis had come to introduce herself. I, however, having just said good-bye to my parents wasn't ready to make small talk and being unhappy with the dorm I had been placed in, wasn't looking to make many friends there. Apparently I said hello, my name and not much else, shutting the door in her face.

I literally still cringe thinking about how I acted. I'm embarrassed at how rude I was and laugh at my complete oblivious state- shutting the door in the face of my future best friend and roommate. Who does that?

As the semester went on, Alexis and I hung out a few times, but it wasn’t until second semester, at a time when I really needed a good friend, that the magic sparked. From that point on, there are very few of my college memories or even day-to-day experiences that didn't involve Alexis.

The summer between freshman and sophomore years of college, I consistently prayed for friendships: that the ones I already had would be deepened and that new ones would spring up and be rich in love and life. Ask any of my close friends from Baylor and they will attest to the undeniable, ridiculous fun that was our sophomore year at Baylor. You can’t bottle that kind of chemistry, love, or lack of sleep. It's a fact that nearly every one of my dearest Baylor relationships either grew or began my sophomore year. God is faithful.

A few weeks ago, while once again wondering if anyone will want be my friend at AUP, God helped me see that He tried to give me my best friend ten minutes into my Baylor experience. He tried. I’m the one that shut the door. I’m so thankful that God and Alexis gave me another chance because the next year when two of Alexis’ best high school friends joined us at Baylor, the magic multiplied and they too, are two of my favorite and best friends. I’ve learned my lesson and now know that January is my opportunity to not make the same mistakes: open heart, open mind, no shutting of doors.

God is forever faithful. I’ve seen His hand and love every step of this crazy journey so far- He’s not going to stop once I get there. Though I don’t know their names or their faces yet, I believe those new friends, people to do life with, learn from, share with, are out there.

One of the best things about life is that we get to share it with people. Look around your life. Who are the people you’ve been surrounded by that have made the difference? Aren’t you so glad for them? Me too. Past, present, and future, me too.

this is how you do it

2010-12-07T22:38:00.003-06:00

I read today that the average high for Paris during the month of January is 39 degrees Fahrenheit. Yikes, baby. That means it's gonna be cold outside.

I'm crazy about this photo. Isn't she fabulous? Shot by The Sartorialist during Paris Fashion Week last winter, she is every bit of bundled-up and layered chic.This, my friends, is how you do it.

love the present

2010-12-06T11:07:00.003-06:00

LOVE the PRESENT: Banana Republic Holiday 2010

merry happy 24th

2010-12-03T18:37:00.003-06:00

Happy 24th to a certain Katie Diane from a certain Caitlin Diana. As you can tell by our names, we were clearly meant to be. Growing-up, she was the closet thing I ever had to a sister and I still look up to her today. She photographs, she social works and most of all, she is relentless and radical in her love for Jesus. She's one of the best. Merry happy 24th to her.

countdown: reality check

2010-12-03T17:40:00.002-06:00

Earlier this week I found these videos about life at The American University of Paris and it all became a hundred times more real. Real people, real places all coming to life, my life actually, in a mere five weeks.

5th street xmas

2010-12-03T17:15:00.000-06:00

Remember the time I forgot my memory card and couldn't take pictures at Christmas on 5th? Okay maybe you don't, but I do. So while I'm mourning the fact that dear friends and I didn't get to corral in front of the Quadrangle tree for our traditional photo shoot, I'm loving the fact that we sang with Matt Wertz, laughed till the wee hours, and were simply together again. And yes, Baylor as usual, was its beautiful self. Some things will never change.

20x200

2010-12-02T10:50:00.001-06:00

I read about 20x200 yesterday over at Elements of Style and had to share it here. I think these book prints are just enchanting. 20x200 has a plethora of prints for as inexpensive as $20. Check.it.out.

actin' a fool

2010-12-02T10:31:00.002-06:00

I sometimes traipse around in my world running on sickly sweet half-lives of entertainment. I'll skip a bible study here or a prayer time there and at first notice no difference. This causes me to make the mistake of believing I can get away with it again...and again. Until that is, I'm hurtling down I35 screaming at the person in front of me because they’re going too slow. Or until I selfishly think of myself when a loved one needs you to do them a quick favor. Am I alone in this?

Suddenly overwhelmed with shame, I finally acknowledge where it went wrong. My sickly sweet life has made me sick- or, at least a headcase. And then I'm crying while driving down the highway because I can see how ridiculous I’ve become and how un-Spirit led you’re being. Thankfully, it’s also in this moment that I can see how wondrous God is. How great His love is and how remarkable my relationship with Him is: despite the fact that I'm actin’ a complete fool, He’s still there. He's waiting to show me that there’s a better way, but for the moment, all He really wants is for me to stop and run into His arms.

We weren’t meant to live our lives on the fumes of sugary sweetness. We’re suppose to pursue the abundant life, but that takes hard work. Faith and mercy and love aren’t always the easiest things after all, but they’re so good for you. They require your daily attention if they're going to take root. I’ve always loved this line from an old hymn: Turn your eyes upon Jesus. Look full in His wonderful face and the things of earth will grow strangely dim, in the light of His glory and grace.

Thankful for Jesus, grace, and the chance to try again today. What about you?

hey december

2010-12-01T10:55:00.001-06:00

It's December! Can you believe it? In celebration of the definite start of the holiday season, I'm sharing my favorite Gap holiday commercial. I can't help but smile and start to groove. Enjoy.

P.S. As long as we're talking favorite Gap commercials (which in my case could be a long conversation), here's another and while we're at it, my absolute favorite.

take a break and celebrate: ban.do

2010-11-30T17:23:00.003-06:00

These little babies by Ban.Do have been talked about all over the blogosphere, but they deserve just one more minute of celebration. They remind me of Dorothy's ruby slippers (which you better believe I had a pair of in the third grade). Clip the sequined hearts onto your shoes and your heels are bound to get to clickin' from the sheer, shiny fun of it.

Their headbands? Be still. Their shoe clips? my heart. Even their blog is super fun. It's official: there's no place like Ban.Do.

my thanksgiving message

2010-11-30T16:55:00.001-06:00

I know that we’re past Thanksgiving. Trees are up, lights have been strung, and you're working hard to dodge the ten minute rendition of “The Twelve Days of Christmas” on the radio (or is that last one just me?), but I didn’t want November slip away without me sharing what I’m dearly grateful for this year.

I am so thankful for the last six months.

Wait. Hold the phone, Caitlin. Haven’t you hated sitting around, feeling pathetic for not knowing what you were going to do with your life? Struggling to find something, anything that remotely appeared to be a career?

Oh, yes. You are completely correct.

Yet even though the last six months have been trying and may appear on the surface to have been incredibly unproductive, they have involved a lot of work on the heart, mind, and soul.You see, without a lot to do, there’s a lot of time to think. Think, think and rethink.

Even though I didn’t admit it, I felt pretty reckless, foolish, and to be completely honest, wasteful, about graduating without a single prospect or plan. It seems to me now, that God in His great mercy saw that there were things to address and work on before I could go on and out into the wild future. I heard a quote by John Mayer the other day, "To evolve, you have to dismantle." That's I exactly what I've had to do.

The last six months have brought clarifications, lessons, and even a revelation or two. God who is forever faithful, met me in the trenches complete with rolled-up sleeves, to work out fears, crazy ideas, and misunderstandings. It’s been a time of studying and learning, of fear and angst, rest and reassurance. It’s been the opportunity to once again share day to day life with my parents. It’s been the chance to see and even work for a dear friend that I don’t always have the chance to see on a regular basis. It’s been a time to just be, get back to me and come closer to Jesus.

If you read my blog regularly, thanks for sticking in there when all I did was mope and complain. Thanks for listening and coming back. I’m thankful for you and for the last six months that have allowed me to dismantle and evolve. Above all, I’m thankful for a God who gives dreams- big dreams- wild, impossible ones. I’m thankful that God is not satisfied with ho-hum existence and isn’t willing to allow it for me – or you. Happy Thanksgiving.

My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever. Psalm 73:26

a most delectable countdown

2010-11-27T15:56:00.000-06:00

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I have to admit, I don't think I've ever tasted a macaroon- weird, I know. However, they are to France what cupcakes have become to the U.S. of A... an obsession. Six weeks from today, I plan to find out just what all the fuss is about. Growing-up, each six week grading period at school felt like a mini-eternity, but I have a hunch that the next six weeks are going to fly. I plan on taking deep breaths, loving each day and being in that time and space. The next will follow before I'm ready- of this too, I am certain.

happy one year

2010-11-22T10:48:00.002-06:00

Hard to believe it's already a year since this beautiful, jubilant day. I'm so thankful for them and proud of them.
P.S. Don't they look the slightest bit Kennedy-esque? Yep, I thought that as well.

wanted

2010-11-22T10:39:00.002-06:00

via The Sartorialist

WANTED: A pair of fabulous, all-purpose, all-weather, walk 'till I drop boots to show a good time on the streets of Europe, most especially, Paris.

Have you seen any?

countdown: paris vs. nyc

2010-11-19T16:20:00.000-06:00

Have you seen Paris vs. NYC? It's such a fun print series by graphic designer Vahram Muratyan dedicated to my future home and perhaps, future future home. You never know...

Countdown: 7 weeks

anthro opening

2010-11-19T15:33:00.001-06:00

I’ve been working the last two weeks at the new Fort Worth Anthropologie in preparation of it’s opening today. If you don’t know the company and store, get to know them. They value beauty and creativity, foster femininity and individuality, and promote an all-together thoughtful and lovely slice of life. If you’re close by, stop in at the new University Drive store- it’s decked to the halls for the practically-here festivus season.
And in case you were wondering, here's a few of my favorite things in the store right now:

i do love a good wedding

2010-11-16T11:17:00.001-06:00

Is it silly that I'm kinda really excited these two finally announced their engagement? And to top it off, Kate even has Diana's famous sapphire and diamond ring. I love a good wedding and there's no way theirs (next spring or summer) will disappoint. Congratulations to Will and Kate!

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lubbock or leave it

2010-11-16T10:51:00.003-06:00

This past weekend, a Lubbock road trip with four high school best friends was in order for surprising our sixth, Audrey, for her 23rd. It was the first time ever that all six of us had been together in one of our college towns and quite possibly the longest period of time we all had been together since high school graduation...four and a half years ago. The surprise, masterminded by Rex and Eliz was perfect and the quick trip is something I won't forget. There was lots of silliness and many laughs, but no one could deny the love that filled the 32 hour trip. It was also an undeniable truth that we indeed are growing up- our lives are moving and taking shape with announcements and changes every day. I'm so happy we got this kind of opportunity to be together before I leave- they are five reasons why I will always love Fort Worth.

factual countdown

2010-11-12T08:01:00.001-06:00

Paris Street, Rainy Day by Gustave Caillebotte, 1877.

Fact: This is one of my favorite paintings.

Fact: When the tableau came to The Kimball a few summers ago, I would sit on the bench in front of it and just stare, getting lost in the world of Parisian drizzle and grey.

Fact: I can’t believe that in EIGHT weeks, I will literally, physically be getting lost in Paris. Still, even over a month after being accepted into graduate school, I still find myself shaking my head in disbelief anytime I think of it. Me? This can’t possibly be happening to me. Seriously, me?

Fact: Apparently so...!!

happy dance

2010-11-08T21:40:00.001-06:00

I'm doing a happy dance. a major happy dance...cause my visa came in the mail!

I can't believe it. I'm good to go...this is for real!

twenty-nine years

2010-11-07T12:16:00.002-06:00

Today I wish my parents a happy happy 29th wedding anniversary.

For better, for worse, in sickness and in health- they’ve lived their vows and been a demonstration of partnership, love, and devotion for my brother and I. When I stop to think about the many blessings in my life, their marriage is at the top of my list. I am continually amazed at God’s goodness in and to my life- that He would not only let me be their child and grow up in a stable, loving environment, but also have the opportunity to watch them love one another as well as the world they come in contact with.

P.S. Aren’t they so cute? (Last week in Montreal…so is the life for a president and first lady.)

add it to the list

2010-11-05T11:47:00.000-05:00

How intéressant is the new Pompidou Art Cultural Center? Located in Metz, France, the modern art museum opened earlier this year and largely showcases pieces on loan from the Pompidou Center in Paris. I’m adding the museum to my list of must-sees.

9 weeks, mes amis.

all the right words

2010-11-03T22:34:00.001-05:00

Before leaving this morning (waaay before the sun came up) to trek to Houston for my visa appointment with the French Consulate, I decided to read from my daily devotional book in hopes of finding any encouragement for the day's journey and slightly nerve-wracking meeting. I kid you not, the title of November 3rd's devotional was, "I Will Go Before You" and reads as follows:

I will go before you
and level the mountains;
I will break down gates of bronze
and cut through bars of iron.
I will give you the treasures of darkness,
riches stored in secret places,
so that you may know that I am the Lord,
the God of Israel, who summons you by name.
-Isaiah 45:2-3

God's imagery of going before us lets us know that he desires us to go on a journey. This is not so frightening. Most of us are aware that the Christian life requires a pilgrimage of some sort. We know we are sojourners. What we have sometimes not given much thought to is what kind of a journey we are to be taking.
As we stand at this intersection of God's calling, we look down two highways that travel in very different directions. The first highway quickly takes a turn and disappears from our view. We cannot see clearly where it leads, but there are ominous clouds in the near distance. Standing still long enough to look down this road makes us aware of an anxiety inside, an anxiety that threatens to crystallize into unhealed pain and forgotten disappointment. We check our valise and find no up-to-date road map but only the smudged parchment containing the scribbled anecdotes and warning by a few who have traveled the way of the heart before us. They encourage us to follow, but their rambling gives no real answers to our queries on how to navigate the highway.
(from John Eldredge's Knowing the Heart of God)

Unbelievable. I stand amazed, as always, at the thoughtfulness and generosity of how Jesus provides for me. Can I get an amen?

raise your voice

2010-11-02T10:34:00.001-05:00

REDBLUEGREENDONKEYELEPHANT
RIGHTLEFT LIBERALCONSERVATIVE
MIDDLE HIGH LOW TEA DRINKER
NO DRINKERGRANDOLDPARTYDEM
It doesn’t matter. What does matter is that you honor the best thing about the United State: the right to speak. Today, if you're eligible to, use your voice by voting. Whatever your opinion, great – how very American of you. Now go voice it at the polls. Vote. Vote. That is after all, what really makes America the beautiful.

via

bowl-coming festivus

2010-10-25T17:51:00.000-05:00

It was so good to see familiar faces and hug necks of people who were once a fact of every day life. To catch up and hear how they too, are adjusting to this sometimes bewildering post-grad life and share the news of our new paths in life. Catch-up coffees, long dinners, and late-night hang outs mixed in with Pigskin, parade and football game and made Baylor Homecoming 2010 a weekend to remember. And when the Bears won the big game, Homecoming became Bowl-coming as the football team is now bowl-eligible for the first time in fifteen years. It wasn't until I was driving home yesterday that I had my first realization of how hard it's going to be for me to leave loved ones come January. If only Baylor and all my favorite people could relocate with me...think about it Baylor, that would be a homecoming to remember come 2011!

homecoming holiday

2010-10-21T09:45:00.001-05:00

I'm off to Waco today for Baylor Homecoming and I'm giddy about it. Yes, it's true that this homecoming will be the first time in three years I won't be dancing on Waco Hall Stage, I won't have a hand in making a parade float, and won't have watched campus put it all together. BUT, this will be the first homecoming in four years that I'm not utterly sleep-deprived. That's the true beauty of being the spectator instead of the host. Yet even better, this will be the first time in all by Baylor Homecomings (which are many, going alllll that way back to 1989) where I will actually be coming home. Coming home to one of the best places I know and to many of the people who helped make it what way. Happy Homecoming!

perspective

2010-10-20T18:23:00.002-05:00

She is quick and curious and playful and strong.

One line. Seven stories. That's the plan for a new collection of short stories released by Kate Spade and the Strand bookstore. I l-o-v-e this idea. Isn't it amazing how a single sentence can lead people in a galaxy of different directions? A direction you would have never thought of- that's the beauty of another person's perspective. Read more about the project and even excerpts from the stories here.

P.S. Not to be a total girl, but aren't those book covers assez mignon? Oui, I thought so, too.

Anthro Outfits On-The-Go

2010-10-19T11:10:00.001-05:00

The best things, be it a book, a room, or a marketing campaign, always have the greatest details.

Anthropologie's Outfits: On-the-Go is no exception.

a conversation about worry

2010-10-18T12:01:00.002-05:00

Ever feel paralyzed by nerves or fears? Last week, this visa process had me freaked out. I mean, beyond all reason, convinced I was headed for doom.

Me: I'm never going to get this visa.
Reason: Why would you think that?
Me: There's too much paperwork and nameless, faceless people handling it. I don't have any of the control. I can't even figure this website out. Hold on, I have to go to HOUSTON?
Reason: You didn't have control of your graduate school application and look how well that turned out. You still have twelve weeks and by the way, you like French people, that's why you're going to France. The people at the consulate won't be any different.
Me: Yeah, but...
Reason: But what? When are you going to get it that worry will do absolutely nothing? Except break you down and perhaps distract you from that fact that this whole thing (the visa, moving to France, life in general) is all about faith. Faith that God has it under control. Faith that the dreams you care for so deeply, are loved and known more by God than you. Newsflash: The fact that you can't see the entire process happen in front of your two eyes isn't a reason to freak out. Do what you have to do and then let go. Let go and wait on God.
Me: You're right. There's always going to be something I could worry over- two weeks ago it was getting into graduate school. This week it's getting the visa to go to graduate school. What will it be next? Right here, right now, I'm making a lifestyle choice: I'm defriending you, worry.
Reason: That's what I'm here for. Now stop your crying and get on with life. You've got a lot to do. Haven't you heard? You're moving to Paris in twelve weeks.

let them take cake...

2010-10-16T16:27:00.003-05:00

Priceless: Watching wedding guests last night fills ziplock baggies full of reception leftovers. And I don't mean half a bag of fruit- I'm talking armfuls that required multiple trips to and from peoples' cars.

Shameless: My best friend and I joining in on the mayhem.

And this isn't even half the loot.

Alexis sums it up well.

state fair

2010-10-11T10:57:00.001-05:00

Corny dogs, cotton candy, fried food galore- our experience at the state fair this weekend was food, food, food. The bears may have lost, but the reunion of ex-roomies (minus one) couldn't be tainted. It was marlavous, right ladies?

signed, sealed, delivered

2010-10-08T10:19:00.001-05:00

Fresh off the FedEx truck and into my hands straight from Paris (with love I'm quite certain), the package every newly accepted grad student hopes for...

P.S. Did you hear about the Paris apartment that had rent paid for 70 years while not a soul inhibited it? AND when people finally went into the apartment, they found painting masterpieces worth three million dollars! Crazy, non?

looky looky from st.louie

2010-10-07T16:52:00.001-05:00

Fresh off the press and from St. Louis, look what has arrived!

The Fall 2010 issue of The Optimist proudly introduces Optimist International's new president, Danny Rodgers, aka, my dad!

P.S. Isn't the cover, shot by Kate Leverenz, awesome?

paper faces on parade

2010-10-06T23:57:00.001-05:00

Love this images (via style.com) of last week's masquerade celebration of Vogue Paris' 90th Anniversary. Also love this post by one funny, lucky girl...if only, right?

announcement

2010-10-06T10:27:00.003-05:00

All photos via LittleBrownPen

I have to admit, I've daydreamed about writing this exact post for a over a year and yet as I type, I still don't believe it.

Come January, the porch swings, the sunsets and I will be moving to Paris!

Monday I was accepted into a graduate program at The American University of Paris for Spring 2011. Since then, I feel like I've gotten engaged or something with all the phone calls, emails, and texts I've been making and receiving.

What else can I say, but God put a dream in my heart and people in my life to encourage it. He was faithful every step of the way and is leading me into what I can only believe will be one mighty adventure. I keep thinking, "Are you sure, God? Me...really?" But throughout this entire process, I trusted that if I was suppose to be accepted I would be- there were plenty of variables in the equation that could have gone wrong...but they didn't. There's a lot of paperwork and procedure to get through before the trans-Atlantic flight, but I know that He will carry it all through to completion.

Oh my gosh...I'm moving to Paris!

it's a new year

2010-10-01T22:55:00.001-05:00

Wait...what? Yes, you read that right. Didn't anyone tell you it's a new year today?

It's with great pride and pleasure that I announce the new year for Optimist International and the beginning of my dad serving as International President. I know it's been quite a journey for my dad and mom to get to this day and it's such a happy happy thing to watch them take off into the arena today. God has given my dad such a courageous heart to lead Optimist International and I know great things are going to happen in the next 365 days.

For them, it's going to be a year of travel, a year of connecting, and a year of serving. So many memories, lessons, and experiences await them and I kind of feel like the proud parent watching my loved ones go out into the world to seize the day.

Wishing for only the best and expecting only the best. Happy New Year y'all!

the alchemist

2010-09-30T23:16:00.001-05:00

via

"People are afraid to pursue their most important dreams because they feel they don't deserve them, or that they'll be unable to achieve them."

---------

"The alchemist said, 'No matter what he does, every person on earth plays a central role in the history of the world. And normally he doesn't know it.'

---------

"Well, then why should I listen to my heart?"

"Because you will never again be able to keep it quiet. Even if you pretend not to have heard what it tells you, it will always be there inside you, repeating to you what you're thinking about life and the world...You will never be able to escape your heart."

----------

"We are afraid of losing what we have, whether it's our life or our possessions and property. But this fear evaporates when we understand that our life stories and the history of the world were written by the same hand."

Just finished reading The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho and have told myself that I am never allowed to give up on my dreams. I may have found them in my heart, but someone greater put them there and with Him, I'll see them come to life. Never give up, no not ever.

it's official

2010-09-27T18:45:00.000-05:00

Yesterday, fall fell.

You know the feeling.

Crisp air seeping into your skin.

It feels as if the seasons switched in the flip of a page.

But really, He brought it to us.

So now I'll breathe a little deeper, letting the earth and sky fill me up with their cool air and sunshine.

So glad you fell fall, really, truly.

letter to fall

2010-09-23T10:12:00.005-05:00

via

Fall, you're finally here and I'll let you in on a secret: you're my favorite season of them all. While spring may be green and summer easy, you fall, bring jackets, coolness, and color. You encourage us to savor the moment-the leaves, the afternoon air, the freshness all around. Thanks for being you and thanks for finally arriving.

timing is not my strong suit

2010-09-17T17:36:00.002-05:00

How fantastically wonderful are these?

The Jinger BOW and BOW scarf from Emmadime.

From MaxMelody on Etsy

Too bad I just made a pledge to myself that I wouldn't buy clothing items (yes, that includes accessories) until December- and now that I've admitted it to you...and my parents I am doubly committed. Guess they'll just have to go on the Christmas list...cough cough Mom and Dad. Let's look on the bright side, here in Texas it probably won't even be cold enough to wear them until then, but Paris on the other hand...

the right words

2010-09-17T17:20:00.000-05:00

We try to be too reasonable about what we believe. What I believe is not reasonable at all. In fact, it's hilariously impossible. Possible things aren't worth much. These crazy impossible things keep us going. -Madeline L'Engle

Praise be to sweet Jesus who gives me the words I need to hear on exactly the right day, at just the right time: today's daily devotional (1 seemingly random out of 365) and the chapter I've been putting off reading. Why does this surprise me? The words both my head and heart needed- how can we doubt He is always active and present in our lives? If His grace is an ocean, we're all sinking.

it's the small things

2010-09-15T19:10:00.001-05:00

Photos via

It's the small things...like the fleurish flourishes that filled Jason Wu's Spring 2011 Ready to Wear Collection. Petals galore, oversized-bows- oh how did Jason know? I'm crazy for the delicate femininity that fills the collection: the dresses that flit and flounce with every move, waist accents, even short suits, and stripety striped shirts. I want it all.

print-tastic

2010-09-15T13:27:00.058-05:00

Photos via
Diane von Furstenberg Spring 2011 Ready to Wear Collection

No one does prints quite like Ms. DVF. Distinct and bold yet lovely as ever, there’s something especially ebullient about those of the new Spring 2011 Ready to Wear collection. My favorite? Top middle in the collage above. Seriously, those prints together (or apart) make me crazy enough to consider selling everything I've got to get them...but then I snap back to reality... Make no mistake though, Ms. Furstenberg does not skimp on her solids either. Sleek and modern, they reinforce that DVF is her own kind of cool entirely.

fingers crossed

2010-09-13T23:50:00.002-05:00

Fingers crossed as now I wait.

starting to say good-bye

2010-09-13T12:10:00.001-05:00

Today marks the official beginning of the end- the end to the Oprah Winfrey Show. I don't exactly remember when I started watching her show- sometime as a little girl staying with my grandma in the afternoons. I remember once my grandma encouraged me to start a project of writing to women role models. I think the only two I eventually wrote to were Hillary Rodham Clinton (the First Lady at the time) and, you guessed it, Oprah Winfrey. I can only imagine what I must have written in the letter or how horrendous my spelling must have been (if you've seen my grade school writing journals, you'd know what I'm talking about), but they both returned my letter with one of their own along with an autographed photo. I can still picture the swirly "O" in Oprah's signature.

I know she has lost fans in recent years for her endorsements New Age religion, but Oprah is still in my eyes, so much more. Oprah to me is proof of what can happen if someone believes in her(his)self and goes after their dreams. Letting nothing- not closed doors or criticism, not setbacks or big change stop them, but continuing on until they find a way to live the life they feel called to.

Oprah is also an example of a person who lives vibrantly with arms wide-open. She seems to be a person who sees, breathes, lives and gives possibility. She cares about others and uses her name and resources to help them.

The night before her first national show, Oprah wrote in her journal, "I keep wondering how my life will change, if it will change and what all this means. Why have I been so blessed? Maybe going national was to help me realize that I have important work or that this work is important. Which is it?"

It's both.

whistle while you work

2010-09-08T16:33:00.000-05:00

When writing for extended periods of time, I call upon music as my trusty side-kick. I tend to stick with the instrumental, because they work a special magic (particularly the strings) in provoking my words to work. That and there's just something about words pouring in my ear while I'm trying to pull others out and onto the page that is simply too much for my brain.

Meet Joe Black via

I'm not sure why, but I have an especial affinity for soundtracks that include Meet Joe Black (side note: if you haven't seen this movie, watch is NOW. It's exquisite and at the top of my Movies Too Few People Have Seen List.), Last of the Mohicans, and Schindler's List.

What do you like to whistle while you work?

mantra

2010-09-07T11:14:00.002-05:00

Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light, not our darkness, that most frightens us. We ask ourselves, "Who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented and fabulous?" Actually, who are you not to be? You are a child of God. Your playing small doesn't serve the world. There's nothing enlightened about shrinking so that other people won't feel insecure around you. We were born to manifest the glory of God that is within us...And as we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same. As we are liberated from our own fear, our presence automatically liberates others. - Nelson Mandela

Amazed by the possibility and promise God is waiting to unleash inside each and everyone of us. Holding these words close to my heart and in front of my eyes today.

shine on

2010-09-07T10:57:00.003-05:00

There's been much ado about the J.Crew sequin pant (pictured above). While I concur that in all their sparkle splendor they make a spectacular trouser, they're not exactly the best shape or cut for most women. Imagine my excitement when thumbing through Vanity Fair, I caught glimpse of another sparkle treasure. The St. John Mahogany Sequin Pant (pictured below) is the safer route. Wide- legged and richer in color, this sequin pant will most likely look good on any woman daring enough to try it.

wall flowers

2010-09-03T11:12:00.002-05:00

Give me a wall! I need a wall! I've fallen madly for these wallpapers by Joy from Oh Joy! and Hygge West.

When I get to the point and place in my life where I am living on my own and in a permanent, long-term home- which A) I can't fathom right now and B) is a whillllllle down the road- I absolutely want to use one of these goods from Mrs. Joy!

pokes, pinches, & whispers

2010-09-01T18:30:00.000-05:00

Life gets tough Most of the time though, life gets hard because the world loves to pinch and poke at your heart, or even worse, whispers its sweet nothings into your ear and mind, which coincidentally happen to also be your strongest self-doubts and fears.

No one quite tells you how life is going to be after you graduate from college. Maybe they had a completely polar experience or they've forgotten their own, but I wasn't expecting all of this. I was under the impression that I had bought the package that included a life changing college experience that upon its conclusion, led swiftly and easily into a more grown-up, yet happy, satisfying, fulfilling life. Maybe my order got lost in all the paperwork, I don't know, but lately, I'm been experiencing my share of pinches, pokes, and whispers. I'm a failure. I will never leave my parents' house. I'm never going to become anything more than I am right now. Things are never going to change. On days that they're feeling particularly cruel, they laugh at me for thinking I could ever be a writer and that I have nothing to say and no one who wants to hear it.

Seriously, what is it with these pokes and pinches? In my heart of hearts, I know that things are going to change. I will move out and onto something- these things and so many others, God has shared with me since coming home. On a personal Caitlin to Jesus level, I feel that I've entered a new season of intimacy and dependency. It is sweet and good. I also love being home right now to hear the day to day, sometimes minute to minute developments in the coming of the 2010-2011 Optimist Year. My parents are entering a remarkable year of their lives and it makes me happy to watch them prepare to soar.

To borrow from Steven Curtis Chapman, God is God and I am (wo)man. I can only see a part of the picture He's painting. This I cling to every day, come doubt or dismay.

all dolled up

2010-08-31T20:02:00.002-05:00

Step-aside Barbie and Skipper, there's a new doll duo in town. The Anna Wintour and Grace Coddington have been designed into one of a kind dolls in celebration of Fashion's Night Out on September 10. Andrew Yang, commissioned by Barneys New York to make the dolls, reportedly hand-sewed and hand-painted every speck and stitch of the dolls. Anna's wig was specially ordered and cut by Yang to get the perfect razor-edge to the iconic editorial bob. Mais, pourquoi pas? This is Anna we're talking about.

The dolls are to be auctioned off beginning today, for more information, visit http://www.charitybuzz.com/.

find a new perspective

2010-08-30T19:14:00.001-05:00

One more addition to Banana Republic's charming fall ad campaign featured in the exemplary September issue of Harper's Bazaar.

favorite looks: emmy review 2010

2010-08-30T18:43:00.002-05:00

The 2010 Emmys aired last night. My favorite moment of the night was the show's opener: a Gleeish musical number complete with Tina Fey, Hurley from Lost, Betty White, and Jimmy Fallon - that and when Jane Lynch won for her role as Sue Sylvester. Outstanding.

The evening's fashion was as expected: beautiful dresses worn by beautiful women, but few left me wowed. It's true, the showstoppers and jaw-droppers are usually left to the Golden Globes and the Oscars, but I still expected to be a little more knocked-back. Black and navy, strapless and one-shouldered were the trends with some color sprinkled in between. My personal favorites include those below.

Toni Collette in Valentino: One of my top picks from the night. More times than not, a dress like this where the color bleeds in and out isn't altogether formal. However, the mix of color and graphics at the bottom of the skirt combined with a sweet, thin ribbon around the middle make this an elegant choice that stood out from the sea of solid-color last night.

Edie Falco in Bottega Veneta:

Eva Longoria Parker in Robert Rodriguez:

Claire Danes in Armani Prive:

Kristen Wig- I would be a huge fan of this dress if the outer-shoulder pads could be ripped off. The print is a delightful departure from solid color, but I can't help but imagine the black pads as birds about to take flight.

Kelly Osbourne in Tony Ward - P.S. She is so skinny now!

Julie Bowen in J. Mendel:

Lea Michelle in Oscar de la Renta- I loved the Glee girls- they all looked beautiful. Some may think the ruffles on this navy de la Renta to be beyond enough, but I love them. This girl is a star- she needs to stand out.

Dianna Agron in Carolina Herrera: This dress may look slightly like a doily in this picture, but it looked beautiful on camera. Plus, Dianna seems like such a lovely person- I love her and her dress.

Jayma Mays in Burberry:

Kyra Sedgwick in Monique Lhuillier:

January Jones in Atelier Versace- This dress has been put on a lot of "What Was She Thinking Lists" but I actually love the dress a lot, minus the cone/shell shaped top. Why must she channel Ariel/Madonna? Besides this, the dress is a head-turner and was one of the best shapes and vibrant colors of the evening.

that's a wrap

2010-08-27T13:32:00.000-05:00

Tired of the way you always tie your scarves? Elle Girl shows and explains how to get wrapped up thirteen new ways here.

top of the list: tappas

2010-08-25T20:03:00.002-05:00

Last night, I discovered tapas.

I realize that I may have just admitted complete culinary ignorance- did the whole world know about tapas and not tell me? Regardless, I've seen the light people and tapas are shimmering goodness! If like me, you're not too taught when it comes to tapas, allow me to include you in the wonderfulness.

Tapas, Spanish for "to cover," are Spanish snack tradition. They can be hot: Spanish meatballs, calamari, chicken and ham coquettes or cold: cheese, pita bread, stuffed peppers- the main point is that they are very small portions- enough for two maybe three bites by every person at table.

This serving style is designed to encourage and facilitate conversation. Instead of every person focusing on their own plate, you're sharing and dissecting the every nuance of each tapas. The experience is company centered, delightful, and entertaining. Even if you don't like what you're tasting at the moment, no need to fret- the next side is on its way. It's brilliant and my new favorite thing.

If you're looking for a memorable dining experience- get yourself to a tapas restaurant asap and don't forget to bring a party of friends with you!

birthday ginger

2010-08-24T17:33:00.007-05:00

Happy Birthday to you,
you are now twenty-two
Happy Birthday to one of my favorite people everrrr
Happy Birthday to you!

Happy Birthday to a friend I can't imagine not having.
Happy Birthday to a friend who is sunshine and joy, optimism and hope.
Happy Birthday to a friend who is passion no matter where or what she is doing.
Happy Birthday to Alexis who invites love, and joy, and strength into her life everyday.

She is the birthday ginger.

quote jar

2010-08-23T23:46:00.000-05:00

Right before I left Waco this summer, a few friends and I picked ten quotes each that we love, that we love to laugh at, and that move us. We made copies, gave them to each other and sealed them away in mason jars. I've been staring at my jar all summer and finally opened it last night. Just as I excepted, I could hear my friends voices and laughs behind each quote. Here are few of my favorites:

Faith is not belief without proof, but trust without reservation. -Elton Trueblood

There is nothing like returning to a place that remains unchanged to find the ways in which you yourself have altered. -Nelson Mandela

Ever notice how 'What the hell' is always the right answer? -Marliyn Monroe

I don't know why I find his stupidity charming. I mean, he's cheating off a girl who thinks the square root of four is rainbows. -Kurk from GLEE

The reason God changes people is to use them to change the world. -David Daniels

I haven't been everywhere, but it's on my list. -Susan Sontag

b. republic fall 2010

2010-08-18T11:15:00.001-05:00

Form Strategic Partnerships.

Multi-task.

Exceed Expectations.

Banana Republic Fall 2010

Photographs by Peggy Sirorta

As always, I've fallen for Banana Republic's newest ad campaign. Mid-page flip, mid- sentence, mid-stride, they always stop me in my tracks.

flower power

2010-08-17T23:07:00.002-05:00

via

How incredible is this flower carpet? This past weekend, 700,000 begonias were arranged on the floor of the Grand Place in Brussels, Belgium for a blooming weekend. The event is a biannual tradition for the country's capital dating back to 1971.

Besides the larger-than-life floral arrangement, this square, in the middle of Brussels, Belgium holds a special place in my heart. Not because of the history behind the buildings' facades (honestly, I'm not even positive I could identify them by name), but because this square was the first stop on my very first Euro-excursion.

Fresh-off the plane and wide-eyed, these buildings were a few of the first things to fill my Euro-fresh eyes- and I love them to this day. Any time I see a picture of them, I feel the same magic and awe I first felt in their presence.

Magic and awe. Heart-pounding awe and wonder. That's some flower power.

happy friday + ellen surprise

2010-08-13T13:10:00.001-05:00

Last night, So You Think You Can Dance crowned it's season seven winner, Lauren. The night was full of season favorite performances, with a twist added to my personal fav routine. Choreographed by Tabitha and Napoleon, it was originally performed by Twitch and Alex [seen here]. Daytime dancing queen herself, Ellen DeGeneres stepped in last night in place of injured Alex. If I thought Ellen couldn't get any better, I thought wrong.

P.S. If you have time for another video, click here. The video is a testament to the idea that kindred spirits come in every shape and size.

Happy Friday!

those days

2010-08-13T12:46:00.001-05:00

We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure. Hebrews 6:19

Some days it's easy to take a quick glance at myself and lose hope. It sometimes feels and looks like I'm doing nothing and that nothing ever will come of me. Those, of course, are the days when I listen to my flesh and the world. I let myself forget the Hope I have inside of me.

The writer of Hebrews is right, the Hope I have truly is my anchor for everything. It's the one thing I cling to today and every other day when I know little to nothing about what's going to happen in my life. I cling to Hope because Jesus is my one security in this life and I know that He has great things for me.

On the days that I do remember this Hope, I cling to it with all I have. Like a buoy in the raging sea, it keeps me above the water. Even more, on those days, I feel such a relief because I remember that the future isn't all on me. He who gives me great dreams, will also bring a means to realizing those great dreams. After all, they weren't my dreams to begin with, but His. On those days, I feel an incredible glow, or better yet, power from within because on those days I remember that Jesus is not only my anchor, but also my provider. His plans and dreams for my life exceed my most daring ones.

He is my hope secure, my anchor strong.

I really like those days.

fall in love fashion

2010-08-13T00:07:00.003-05:00

Senior year of high school, I wrote the fashion column for my high school paper. It makes me cringe now- the things I must have told people! In celebration and anticipation of fall coming (and not a moment too soon- it's an absolute inferno here in Texas) here is my wish list of things I want to be wearing this autumn.

Personally, speaking, the challenge and fun about dressing for fall is all in the layering: tights under dresses, cardigans over tees, jackets with scarves and hats to finesse the finishing touch. Layering is key and queen.

the blazer. both by b. republic

I've wanted a leather jacket for sometime...they're just cool, especially this one by b. republic. How dreamy and fancifully flouncy is this vest by j.crew? dream.y.

Cardigans are the catch-all, save all. Throw one on over a tee and jeans or pair one with a skirt, tank, belt. Love both of these by j.crew.

I'm in the market for a new, big-girl, "I will write professional pieces for you" kind of bag to carry my computer in. These, from Ann Taylor Loft and 9 West are two favorites I found this last week.

organizing my muses

2010-08-10T20:18:00.001-05:00

If you're anything like me, when you love an article, see a rad ad, or want to steal a great idea, you rip it out of the magazine or newspaper you're reading and keep it. While all intended purposes are good, this scrappy habit can quickly lead to chaotic paper stacks here and there on your desk and in your drawers, as well as many "where'd I put that?" mind cramps.

To ease my own personal pain, I finally put all my borrowed ideas, favorite articles, and inspiration in one place. It's actually quite easy. Taking an old binder and a few sheet protectors, group your papers in a way that makes sense to you. I've divided mine into four categories: fashion, home decor, design/ advertisements, and writing. I also often take a sharpie to the pages and makes notes on what originally drew my senses to the page. Slip the papers into covers and voila: organized muses.

i dream of velvet

2010-08-06T17:46:00.002-05:00

I love these photos featured in a fashion spread in this month's Harper's Bazaar. The deep colors and rich, heavy fabrics are all about autumn and I'm all about cool(er) weather. On days like today when the temperature exceeds 100, it's nice to be reminded that summer weather won't last forever...hopefully.

Photographs by Alexi Lubomirski

Have a lovely weekend!

bananas

2010-08-06T11:51:00.005-05:00

Several months ago, I shared my love of Harper's Bazaar covers, most especially the April 2010 cover that featured Demi Moore, a staircase, the beach, and a giraffe. I wanted to believe that the whole situation was for real and not just a photoshop dream, but seriously, who would do that? It turns out, Rachel Zoe would.

Thankfully, the premiere episode of the new season of The Rachel Zoe Project features the shoot from start to finish and in Ms. Zoe's own words, I went bananas for it. This video, by Harper's Bazaar, also gives a peak and a little insight into the shoot. I die.

starry night countryfied

2010-08-06T11:06:00.022-05:00

This Nashville street-side starry night took me by surprise. Smack in the middle of a world of beige and concrete, the night sky showed up and spoke up. I have no idea if the swirling mural is related to a near-by business or just there.

Speaking of starry nights, have you seen this video? Apparently it's every painting in New York City's Museum of Modern Art (on April 10, 2010) in two minutes, including Vincent van Gogh's own Starry Night. I've never been to the museum, so I'll have to take the video's creator's word. I'd certainly rather visit the museum in person, but still, kinda cool.

moved on?

2010-08-04T17:00:00.003-05:00

Visiting Waco last weekend was a refreshing experience. Staying with a dear friend and visiting with many others, gallivanting to and from favorite shops, and indulging at most of my favorite Waco dives, it was fun to be back in my college town. I even lucked out and got a little quality time with Baylor itself; because it's summer, campus was deserted, allowing it to be just me and Baylor- the way I love it.

While it felt good to be back, I think it felt even better when I realized that my attachment to Baylor and Waco has severely weakened since graduation. My heart does twinge when I think of many friends who will be returning to school in just a few weeks, but I think I've begun moving past Baylor. It was an incredible, practically blissful four years, but I'm happy to say that I'm excited about what's happening in my life now as well as what might be just around the corner. Trust me, this wasn't an overnight process, in fact, I fought it the whole way. Nevertheless here I am: removed and okay with it. Incredibly thankful for a beautiful past but sincerely grateful for a future.

There has never been the slightest doubt in my mind that the God who started this great work in you would keep at it and bring it to a flourishing finish on the very day Christ Jesus appears.

Philippians 1:6

[The Message]

team chris

2010-08-02T15:09:00.007-05:00

Confession, I've totally fallen in love with watching The Bachelorette this summer. Tonight, Ali picks her man...or maybe she doesn't? Either way, I'm be tuning in and rooting for Chris. If by some chance Ali loses her mind and doesn't pick him, you can find me on the first flight out of DFW to Cape Cod to find him. Okay I'm kidding...or maybe I'm not...who turns down a man who worked with inner-city kids in New York City and then quits to move home to help take care of his mom? He seems to have his head straight on his rather broad shoulders and his heart and priorities in the right place. Plus, have you seen him? Really, team Chris all the way.

Photos via Google and ABC

One of the many benefits of being the bachelorette absolutely has to be the clothes. Blush pink, chiffon, dreamy, and romantic, the dress above (A.B.S. by Allen Schwartz) is by far and away my favorite look worn by Ali this season.

happy birthday, dear dad

2010-07-31T14:57:00.008-05:00

I decided in honor of my dad's birthday today, I would share the mini-speech I gave to introduce him at the Optimist Convention earlier this month. Happy Birthday, Daddy! I love you!

My dad is many things to me.

He is my backpacking buddy. With him, I’ve climbed mountains and wandered through valleys throughout the New Mexican wilderness. We’ve share many adventures and beautiful views and a few scrapes and bruises along the way.

He is my editor. Since high school and all the way through college, he was my second pair of eyes for essays and papers. Long before I ever considered myself a writer, my dad saw something in my words and in my heart. With his encouragement and nudges, I began to see the possibility in myself to become a writer.

He is, with my mom, my greatest supporter. He and my mom have dreamed greater dreams for me than I myself had ever imagined; they seem to think that nothing is impossible. It’s through their eyes and hearts, that I often see my own possibility.

Optimist International has been blessed by the leadership of many remarkable men and one amazing woman. This next year I am excited that you will have a chance to see the kinds of wild dreams my dad has dreamed for the children and this great organization.

preview

2010-07-29T00:31:00.003-05:00

The post-it says it all.

http://www.caitlinrodgers.com/: I'll keep you posted.

discipline...are you out there?

2010-07-29T00:12:00.005-05:00

I've been struggling lately with my, shall we say, open schedule. I'm talking the kind of wide open spaces where the deer and the antelope play. Sure, it's fun at first: wake up when you want, watch ridiculous reality tv or old Grey's Anatomy episodes, blog a little, maybe make a trip to Starbucks or Target, hang out with the family, and call it a day. Make this your life for a few weeks though and you start to feel slightly pathetic. Actually, strike the slightly...I was just trying to be nice to myself.

I realized today that even though I don't have a thousand things filling my beloved planner right now, what has really been out of whack lately is my discipline. Honestly, I've lost my focus regarding so many areas of my life; I've let it all slide because it's summer and I've beginning this maddening journey known has post grad life. The excuses though, have grown into a life-sucking leech.

So for the next month, the word is discipline. What I do, where I go, where I spend my time, even what I eat- it's all being changed.

Discipline? I think I can start to see you now...

lost and found

2010-07-28T16:26:00.002-05:00

via

So we'll get on the green line and go four stop. Then,, jump off and switch to the pink line. After three more stops we should be there...hopefully.

I'll admit, the bit of experience I've had traveling the world's undergrounds was somewhat confusing. Even more, standing with my nose pressed to the giant metro map while my finger repeatedly traces the lines isn't exactly how I usually hope to blend in with the locals. Thank goodness for Transit Maps of the World by Mark Ovenden. I love that it's a complete collection of every rapid-transit system in the world, so now at least I can trace the lines from the privacy of the hotel room and not in front of a multitude of underground dwellers.

blogiversary

2010-07-25T15:29:00.004-05:00

Blog,

Happy one year blogiversary. Time has kinda flown since we started together. Remember how compelled I felt to start you after having read the entire blog of a friend of a friend in a single sitting? Her honesty, love, and enthusiasm was practically infectious and I felt like there was a great deal of the same tumbling around in my head and heart wishing to get out. When we started, I felt both meek and bold; it was a relief to have an outlet for cascading thoughts and whims. but at the same time uncomfortable to share my heart, my faith, my acute me-ness with...well, the world.

I'm not sure how much other people have gotten out of reading the two of us this past year, but I for one have found fortitude and solace. You've helped me develop my voice as a writer, introduced me to many designers, decoraters, and writers, and given me a wee bit more ferocity to attack writing- and life.

Keep it real.

Love always,

Caitlin

via
P.S. Wouldn't this be such a fun birthday dinner party? Yeah, I thought so too.

thursday quote

2010-07-22T21:19:00.006-05:00

via

"What can this incessant craving, and this impotence of attainment mean, unless there was once a happiness belonging to man, of which only the faintest traces remain, in that void which he attempts to fill with everything within his reach?...Because, in a soul that will live forever, there is an infinite void that nothing can fill, but an infinite, unchangeable being." -Blaise Pascal

philanthropy

2010-07-22T20:21:00.007-05:00

via
While in Nashville last week, I visited a rather remarkable shop.
Philanthropy, located in downtown Franklin, is a store with a serious social conscience. Decorated with nothing short of absolute creativity, thought, and attention to detail, it's enchanting and inviting- so much so that I wanted to ask to move in. Even more, the shop hopes to serve as a platform for their customers to make a difference. By pledging at least 10% of their sales to designated causes, the store has raised over $120,000 in three years.

Next time you're in Nashville, Philanthropy is definitely worth the visit. However, if you can't wait that long, check it out here.

directions to follow

2010-07-21T18:30:00.006-05:00

All signs point to Franklin, TN being the sweet little sister to Nashville...and they would all be correct.

letter to nashville

2010-07-20T11:59:00.009-05:00

Dear Nashville,
Thanks for being a place that David could love, so in effect, a place we would love visiting. Also, thanks for being a kicked-back yet trendy place full of dreamers who have passion and talent they're eager to share...I've wondered lately where all the cool, yet down to earth young people are...and now I know.

Dear Nashville guys,

Thanks for having the coolest haircuts ever and for rolling your jeans up. I love it. really.

Dear Bluebird Cafe,
Thanks for one of my favorite Nashville experiences and for introducing me to This & That.

Dear This & That,

You rock. Now really, how did you know just the song to sing? Y'all are officially my favorite duo and I am hoping extra hard that you have all the success in the world.

Dear Summer Nights,
Thanks for providing the perfect excuse to hang out until wee hours with a few favorite people I haven't had the pleasuring of seeing for quite some time.

Dear Centennial Park,
Thanks for being a beautiful green space smack dab in the middle of the city. It doesn't hurt that you have a life size replica of the Parthenon either. Also, much appreciation for providing the perfect backdrop for a self-timer photo shoot.

Dear Nashville restaurants in general,
You have some of the most delectable, taste bud satisfying, homecookin' food that I've tasted in quite a while. Loveless Cafe, Gigi's, Pancake Pantry, Merridee's Breadbasket...sheesh.

Dear David,
Thanks for being the best tour guide ever. We loved every minute of you showing off your summer/possible future city.

Dear 10+ hour drive home,
Thanks for allowing hours of "hot topic" conversation. And thanks for being a perfectly good excuse to hang out 10+ extra hours with Mark and Alexis.

Dear Nashville (yes, one more time),

Thanks for being the backdrop for our friend reunion. You may have only held our attention for a long weekend, but you now permantely hold several of our long-term memories.

Keep in touch,

Caitlin