Spring Instagram Challenge

I've had Instagram for a few months now, and it has quickly become my favorite way to use social media. I feel so artsy when I use it. I've never done an Instagram challenge before, but I thought spring would be the perfect time to start. Every time I see a flowering tree, I feel compelled to take a picture of it. :) Here is the spring Instagram challenge that I came up with. I hope you'll join me!

9 Thoughts You Have When You First Start Working Out Consistently

1. "Why haven't I lost 5 pounds yet?"

It's easy to expect instant gratification for your hard work, even if it's just been a week.

2. "I have no core muscles."

Is a 10 second plank impressive?

3. "I could totally run a 5k."

This is thought after only a few days of running...but, hey, it's good to have confidence in your abilities.

4. "You can actually see my biceps now when I flex!"

This may have come from personal experience. Seeing progress is the best feeling.

5. "Where are all my workout clothes?!"

You quickly realize that 1 pair of workout shorts isn't going to cut it.

6. "I could definitely workout this hard every day."

This thought lasts about two days.

7. "Walking from my couch to the fridge counts as exercise, right?"

Yeeeah, no.

8. "Why did I think I could do so many reps?"

This thought comes the next day when you're experiencing soreness.

9. "I'm so hot!"

The best part about exercise is the confidence boost. You should be proud of yourself!

5 Minute DIY Gift: Bath Salts

DIY gifts are the best. They are fun to make, and they save money! One of the simplest gifts to make is bath salts. You just need a few ingredients, and it only takes 5 minutes to make. Here are the directions:

1. Gather your supplies. You will need:

• epsom salt
• a jar for storage
• a bowl and spoon for mixing
• an essential oil in the scent of your choice

2. Measure out the amount of salt you will need by pouring the epsom salt into your jar. This is how you will know that you are making the correct amount of bath salts.

3. Next, pour the salt into your bowl. 

4. Pour a few drops of essential oil into the salt. Be careful when you are pouring, since the oil comes out quickly.

5. Stir the salt thoroughly to spread the scent evenly. 

6. Spoon the salt back into the jar and lightly shake to even it out.

You're done! This is a thoughtful, relaxing gift perfect for anyone. You could also easily give this out as party favors. 

What is your favorite DIY gift to make?

15 Verses to Give You Peace & Strength

The best kind of peace comes from Jesus. Relaxation techniques definitely help, but nothing is as lasting or strong as peace that comes from your faith. These verses are perfect for renewing your faith and giving you strength. 

1. Psalm 29:11

"The LORD gives strength to his people; the LORD blesses his people with peace."

2. Isaiah 26:3

“You will keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on You, because he trusts in You.”

3. John 14:27

“Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.”

4. John 16:33

“These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.”

5. Philippians 4:6-7

 “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.”

6. Psalm 119:165

"Great peace have they who love your law, and nothing can make them stumble."

7. Isaiah 9:6

"For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace."

8. Isaiah 54:10

"Though the mountains be shaken and the hills be removed, yet my unfailing love for you will not be shaken nor my covenant of peace be removed," says the LORD, who has compassion on you."

9. Matthew 11:28-30

"Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.
Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light."

10. Romans 15:13

"May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit."

11. Colossians 3:15

"Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful."

12. Psalm 46:1

“God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.”

13. Isaiah 41:10

"So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand."

14. Psalm 27:1

"The Lord is my light and my salvation—whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life—of whom shall I be afraid?"

15. 2 Timothy 1:7

“For God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love, and self-discipline.”

What verses give you comfort?

Simple 4 Ingredient Peanut Butter Frosting

When it comes to desserts, I love anything peanut butter and chocolate. I'm pretty sure I inherited this from my mom. Since her birthday was coming up, I decided to make her a chocolate peanut butter cake. To do this, I wanted to make peanut butter frosting. I enjoy improvising with recipes, so I decided to try making a really simple, quick peanut butter frosting. It turned out well, and only took about 5 minutes to whip together!

Here is the recipe:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup smooth peanut butter
• 1 block cream cheese (8 ounces)
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1/4 cup milk

Directions:

1. Soften the cream cheese by allowing it to sit out for 30 min to an hour, or by microwaving it for about 20 seconds.
2. Mix the cream cheese, peanut butter, powdered sugar, and milk for about 3 minutes until it is well blended.

That's it! 4 ingredients and 2 steps. Simple and delicious.

For my mom's birthday cake, I made a chocolate cake in a 13x9 pan. I then poked holes throughout the surface and poured melted chocolate frosting over the whole top. Next, I spread the peanut butter frosting on. Lastly, I added crushed Reese's cups. It was delicious!

Do you like cream cheese frosting?