Spring Cleaning, err crafting

So, the weather was on a warming trend and then suddenly it has been overcast and cold again. But the warm weather did spark a motivation for some spring cleaning...and crafting...despite the fact that some of it will have to wait until the temperatures begin to rise again.

I am especially ready for the weather to be warm so we can get out and work in our yard. Its amusing to me the things that become fun once you are a home owner. Home Depot is suddenly a magical place. Yard care is suddenly something I'm googling often. I would rather save up for home decor items or new furniture than for clothes or accessories. . .

This year we are prioritizing getting our yard in order. The lady who previously lived in our house did about zero landscaping upkeep and it shows! So as Spring has begun to arrive, we've already been hard at work clearing dead brush, raking up random piles of leaves (how did those get there!?) and planning out how to make a back yard oasis. Can't wait for the growing season! I'm envisioning lots of backyard barbques, yard games, smores around a fire pit, sunbathing, etc. :) :)

And until I can get my hands dirty outside, I've been doing a little spring crafting inside. Thanks to inspiration and a tutorial from this blog, I made two new pillows for our front porch swing...



It was actually my first time sewing pillows. And they are made from two napkins from World Market. The material is so sturdy, they feel like canvas - perfect for outdoors! I even made them with a flap on the back so I can change them out at any time. And honestly, it was pretty easy. :)


Also, a new Spring wreath for the front door...




Come on back Spring! I miss you!

An update on him

Due to some recent answers to prayer, I thought I'd update you on Kyle's new adventures these days...

1. New job - Kyle begins his new job on Monday as a Marketing Coordinator for USA Funds. Hooray! We've learned a lot through the process of waiting for a new job - I think mostly that God's timing is always better than our own. Don't get me wrong, there were a lot of struggles, frustrations, disappointments, etc along the way! Yet we had to humbly learn to trust and relinquish control to the One who holds every detail in His hands. We had to trust that opportunities we thought were perfect, He knew better. And that even in heartache and confusion, ultimate peace and fulfillment are found in our relationships with Him, not in the outcomes we wish to see happen. (Much easier said than done!) I also think our own relationship has grown in new ways as we together daily sought guidance, encouraged each other when we didn't understand, and surrendered our desires and control over to Him. In these times, I realize it's more about how we handle the process than what is the end result.

2. Freelance - Kyle has begun doing freelance work for a local businessman. He manages this man's website and is introducing him to the world of social media. It's a nice side gig that Kyle hopes to continue in the future with maybe more clients.

3. Podcast - Check out a feature arsenal.com did of Kyle and Joel's podcast while we were over in the UK: http://www.arsenal.com/usa/sh/usa/news/features/feature-arsenal-review-usa-in-london-.(I'm even in a few of the shots!) It's a great plug for their podcast and they since have had a large jump in followers! They also recently interviewed an ex-Arsenal player who is now a US scout for the club. And lastly, their podcast has picked up a sponser (soccerpro.com) which allows them to have giveaways and prizes on the show. I know both Kyle and Joel are excited about the future of the podcast as they continue to make contacts both locally and abroad!



We are so very thankful for the opportunities God has given us and look forward to what the future holds!