tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26977318650201415412024-03-13T07:23:45.041-05:00AshewelryThe thoughts of a student, and online entrepreneur.Ashleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02810751864572355913noreply@blogger.comBlogger15125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2697731865020141541.post-41803766336286371322011-07-10T11:25:00.000-05:002011-07-10T11:25:46.494-05:00Playing Catch-Up --> Preparing for UgandaSadly, I feel like a layer of dust has settled over my blog :( Sorry about this! But -as you can imagine- I've kept pretty busy! As some of you know I've been in Uganda for the past couple weeks, but I want to rewind and shed a little light on these past few months. <br />
The time before my departure was quite stressful, but really exciting at the same time! I was able to conquer some of my big fears. . .like my fear of needles and taking pills. Although, when you weigh them up against yellow fever and malaria. . .you can guess which I chose. I almost passed out in the nurse's office after my Yellow Fever shot actually, a start to my list of "firsts" made with this trip.A lot of time was spent in research and filling out forms, but I know that it is all worth it in the end!<br />
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Through all the fundraising needed for the trip, I've discovered a deep love for my church & community during these past months. Thank you to all for your support, you know who you are! I will never be able to repay you for the opportunity you have helped me obtain. Also- a shout out to all who purchased <a href="http://ashewelry.etsy.com/">Ashewelry</a>! You were a huge help, as all the profit received went straight to paying for the trip.<br />
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I've really been able to connect with people in a new way since my decision towards missions and specifically missions in Africa. I actually have a couple of close friends who are also planning on taking missions trips during the summer; one to the Dominican Republic another to China. It's comforting to know that others have chosen to stretch their faith in this way and I can't wait to share stories! Although, I have to say (other than my immediate family) the person who has encouraged me the most in preparing for the trip has to be a fellow co-worker of mine. She has gone to Africa in the past and plans on living there as a missionary in the near future, as the Lord wills. Actually, her and her future husband plan on moving to Uganda! So I'm sure we are to have long conversations about the country and it's culture specifically. Her knowledge of the challenges of missions trips and basics of living in a third world country have already helped me immensely! Note to anyone traveling to a third-world country: Bring baby wipes & baby powder. There is no guarantee you will shower regularly. . .something to look forward to, I know :)<br />
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The week before my departure I was flooded with several emotions.<br />
***Sunday -Father's Day- I talked to the parents of the friend I mentioned earlier who traveled to China. They said that life was very tough their for their son. Knowing that this guy is very independant and emotionally stable, the fact that HE of all people was homesick. . .I was uneasy to say the least. This is coming from a girl who hasn't spent a week away from family, much less 6 weeks thousands of miles away from them. So, the beginning of the week I was nervous about feeling homesick.<br />
***Tuesday night I went to a weekly bible meeting that has been such a blessing for me already this summer. It's called "Pop-In" , the summer version of an outreach at school. The people at these meetings bury me in compassion and caring. Just walking in the room brings me peace. These gracious people prayed over me, knowing that this was the last week I was able to see them before leaving. Honestly? I've never been prayed over before, but God has showed me the power of prayer through many occurences this past month, and this was one of them. I was no longer anxious or worried about anything dealing with my trip. The peace of God that surpasses all understanding. Thank you God! The talks I was able to have the rest of the night gave me even more assurance that God was in control of my situation. It is He that called me to Uganda this summer. It is He that will keep me safe. <br />
***Thursday I discovered how much funding I had through being the missionary for VBS this year & support letters I had sent out. The result? Not what was expected. Finances has always been something I have been able to control in the past; organization in this area has been crucial to me. This was the first time that I had no control over my finances, but you know what? God had control over it and He still does. Right after hearing the total, I came outside and sat down to hear the LOUDEST clap of thunder I have ever experienced. No joke. Have you ever heard that God speaks to us through storms? Well, I know that God was telling me "Trust me! I called you to this trip, I alone will provide." <br />
That night our family was having a going away supper for me because my sister & brother-in-law would not be able to make it to the airport that Saturday. After dinner we took a walk down our road; we live out in the country so this is a walk I make pretty frequently. But this time it was different, the sun was setting, and I knew that this was the beginning of my "lasts" before I left. The last time I would walk on this road, see a Kansas sunset, see my sister, brother, and brother-in-law, not to mention my 3 month old nephew. I was battling nostalgia and homesick-ness and I hadn't even left yet! I now have a photo album of pictures my sister-the photographer took on the walk, and it is tucked in my suitcase.<br />
I talked to my sister Amy about the challenges of the next 6 weeks. You know what she said? Something to this extent: "Ashley, you'll experience a lot of hardship during your trip; like homesickness and emotional rollar coasters (like that past week). But this is the life of a missionary. Sometimes God has to take us out of our comfort zones to stretch our faith in ways He couldn't do while we are at home. Your faith will grow as a result of this trip, and I'm excited to see the results!" Amy, I am so blessed to have such a wise sister. I love you!<br />
***Friday of course was anxious excitement! I spent the whole day packing and imagining life in Uganda :)<br />
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My experience in various airports was definately not as confusing as I thought, I had no problems...thank goodness! I met up with a wonderful couple in Dallas, and we toured London together! It was amazing being able to see the city and it's detailed architecture - so much better than just seeing pictures! All I could think about was what life would be like in Uganda. . .Ashleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02810751864572355913noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2697731865020141541.post-51338355716208410152010-12-29T18:59:00.004-06:002011-03-31T16:23:04.829-05:00Questioning and Confirmation<a href="http://www.shorttermmissions.com/images/organization_logos/226.jpg"><img style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 230px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 88px" alt="" src="http://www.shorttermmissions.com/images/organization_logos/226.jpg" border="0" /></a> <br /><div>As I've mentioned before, I'm really excited about my <a href="http://www.empower-a-child.org/eachome/outreach.html">summer missions trip to Uganda </a>with <a href="http://www.empower-a-child.org/eachome/">Empower A Child</a>, but (unfortunately) the human mind is accustom to doubt. . .this is a big decision! I've been praying for a confidence that this is what He wants, not just what I want.</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>This past week, God definitely answered prayer! (Does He ever disappoint?) This Sunday, our youth group leader announced that we would be helping the members of our church with different tasks for donation; which would all be going to fund my trip. <em>Wait!</em> What? I expected to hear groans ("We have to do work for nothing?") But, instead, everyone looked really excited- they are glad to help with my trip :)</div><br /><div>Last night something out of the ordinary happened: I got an <a href="http://www.etsy.com/transaction/40803580">order</a> through <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/Ashewelry?ref=pr_shop">Etsy</a>!! My second order made to a stranger :) I was so happy! Then this morning. . .I was woken up by two very excited parents- I had <em>another</em> <a href="http://www.etsy.com/transaction/40839847">order</a> from Etsy. <em>What?</em> Woo Hoo! It was for one of my more expensive items- a cuff I had been wanting to sell for quite some time!</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>Now I'm beginning to realize that "God WILL provide"</div><br /><div>It's not just a saying, it's reality!</div>Ashleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02810751864572355913noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2697731865020141541.post-85948906447413092242010-12-29T18:25:00.003-06:002011-01-08T12:42:00.419-06:00My First Home Ashewelry Party. . .<div>I've heard that home jewelry parties are a great way to get the word out about your business. I've also heard that they are pretty <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">successful</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">financially</span>- which made it a perfect way to raise money for my trip to Uganda this summer.<br /><br />I decided to have the first (of many- hopefully) @ my house- come and go. So, after getting the word out through <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2"><a href="http://www.facebook.com/permalink.php?story_fbid=128766473852327&id=1370774128#!/Ashewelry">FB</a></span>, <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/Ashewelry">Twitter</a>, and mostly word of mouth, many people were excited! So, we cleaned house, set up, I made a basket for a silent auction, made a "Ring Stack Station", and set out the Christmas cookies.<br /><br />My expectations seemed to <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">exceed</span> the results. I thought there would be several sitting around our table sharing conversation and hot cider, a room full of friends, and (of course) lots of orders. Within the first ten minutes I had two customers show up!! Both of whom made orders- I was so excited! But...these two turned out to be my only customers all night. I spent the next three hours waiting for customers who had <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">RSVP ed</span>...but never showed up! <em>Being optimistic though, the two orders I had that night was better than not having any orders and not having a party!</em><br /><br />After seeing a lot of friends and neighbors the following day, I found that a lot had forgotten! BUT from that many made orders with me- by the end of the week, about 6% of my trip is funded :) it's a start!</div>Ashleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02810751864572355913noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2697731865020141541.post-87114619023212092462010-12-29T17:24:00.005-06:002010-12-29T18:18:22.043-06:00A New Purpose for AshewelryA lot of questions have been enveloping my thoughts lately- as you can imagine. There are many choices that one makes in a day, in a lifetime...but I've decided that I should take mine one at a time.<br /><br />Many, if not all followers of Christ wonder about God's Will for their lives, but I've heard once that about 97% of God's Will is written. (I'll bet you know what's coming next!) It is in His Word. As Luke 16:10 says: ""Whoever can be trusted with very little can also be trusted with much, and whoever is dishonest with very little will also be dishonest with much." at this moment, we know a portion of God's plan for our lives- that we follow His commandments. If we can't do these things. . .how can we expect Him to reveal more to us? If we can't follow His original instructions, there may be a reason that He isn't revealing more to us.<br /><br />With this in mind, it's a lot easier not worrying about what I should do next, because I am doing what I should at <em>this</em> moment. Although. . .I still wondered about which missions trip to go to this summer (or if I should go on one at all!) Many opportunities have come up- and I've seeked guidance from God and loved ones around me ((Proverbs 2:6-9 , Proverbs 20:18)) and God has gently shut the door on each one. Through each experience, I've become more sensitive to His leading.<br /><br />Through all this, I was reminded of what Elizabeth Elliot said about God's Will. "The Shepard is much more interested in making sure that the sheep get to where they belong than how the sheep are in getting there." I've talked to mom about this, and she mentioned that in Sunday school they discussed that very thing. We miss a lot of opportunities because of doubt. We want and audible voice and thunder! But some decisions require stepping out in faith! If the choice you're about to make is in accordance to the Bible and your concience, and after humble prayer your view doesn't change, then go ahead and act. If it's <em>not</em> what God wants, He will make it clear. He will shut the door someway. Even if the result is not what you expected, God was teaching you something!<br /><br />I narrowed down what type of trip I want. . . and I think I've got one! :)<br /><br />Empower A Child is an organization that brings volunteers to countries throughout the world to help in a variety of outreaches. Including an orphanage, juvenilles home, drama ministry, sports ministry, a childrens hospital, and VBS. I wanted a range of outreaches so I could make a better (career/life) decision based on experience. Otherwise, I will most likely be a liguistic translator (writing the Bible in a group's language) or a "Church planter" (developing a church where Christ is unknown). I would be able to choose when I go, and how long I stay. I'm also taking this trip with a close friend of mine, so we can share the experience.<br /><br />The trip we've chosen is to Uganda. I'm still in the information inquiring phase, just past the informing my parents phase :) they understand. . .but mom still wants me to stay in-state (or in-country!)<br /><br /><em>~Although, I don't have to stop making jewelry! Ashewelry will be a great help in fundraising money for this (fairly costly) trip!~</em>Ashleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02810751864572355913noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2697731865020141541.post-26465071642711061182010-08-12T10:35:00.006-05:002010-08-12T11:10:23.320-05:00Change of plans :)Alright, so if you have reading past blogs, you know that I'm 16 and my dream is to one day own a business selling my jewelry. Well, it's amazing how things change in a matter of only 2 weeks! <div><div><div><br /><div>No, let me change that. It's amazing how God can change things :)</div><br /><a href="http://www.hillsideag.com/SiteFiles/102495/Content/Great_Commission_with_Globe_and_Cross.jpg"><img style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 231px" alt="" src="http://www.hillsideag.com/SiteFiles/102495/Content/Great_Commission_with_Globe_and_Cross.jpg" border="0" /></a> Within 2 weeks God completely changed my perspective. He let me realize that the many plans I had were made without Him, and were altogether selfish. My thought was "God, if you don't want me to have a business, shut the door on it." (Now, don't get me wrong. Those who own businesses, or sell their own products may have a different story)<br /><br /><div>Anyways, during those two weeks I seriously considered becoming a missionary-- something that I hadn't thought about since I was little. And, throughout those two weeks, all I could think about was "Seek first the kingdom of God" (Matthew 6:33) and "The labor is great, but the laborers are few" (Matthew 9:37). I spent A LOT of time in prayer, and in His Word...and these thoughts didn't change. I mean, think about it- what could possibly be better than to see people groups that had once never even <em>heard </em>the name of Christ, <em>come to believe in Him</em>?</div><br /><br /><div>I'm undecided on a lot of things...like whether or not I'm going on a missions trip, which bible college/training I'll go to, and most of all: what <strong>country</strong> I'll go too...but, God will let me know when the time comes! I will just have to remain faithful in prayer and commitment.</div><div></div><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5504555721000856130" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 386px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 124px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_S3HvQJnqpiI/TGQcQ4yZqkI/AAAAAAAAAE0/Nijf46UjyAE/s400/third%2520world_Resized_357x268%5B1%5D.jpg" border="0" /></div></div></div></div>Ashleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02810751864572355913noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2697731865020141541.post-50952237159704789572010-06-30T17:24:00.004-05:002010-06-30T17:34:38.443-05:00Oh...my brain!<a href="http://www.boston.com/ae/theater_arts/exhibitionist/money_tree_color.jpg"><img style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 217px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 241px" alt="" src="http://www.boston.com/ae/theater_arts/exhibitionist/money_tree_color.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div>After quite an impulsive decision that I was going to invest in a mutual fund (after going through <a href="http://www.daveramsey.com/?ictid=glpdr">Dave Ramsey's </a>Financial Peace University), and months of barely any research, I have decided that <em>this</em> is the week I get down to business.</div><div> </div><div>Wow. Isn't THAT easier said than done! After signing up at <a href="http://www.morningstar.com/">Morningstar</a>, an online investing help, I was mor.ti.fied. ...yup! Just a tad bit more than I am ready to handle!</div><div> </div><div>Turns out I didn't know as much as I thought! So, I'm forced to click on various links from links from links just to comprehend what these knowledge filled authors and investors have to say!</div><div> </div><div>Actually....that's what I was just doing, so I guess I. should. go. back :(</div><div>This will all be worth it, right? I sure hope so! :)</div>Ashleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02810751864572355913noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2697731865020141541.post-58446763860880895832010-06-23T20:04:00.003-05:002010-06-23T20:19:36.880-05:00My first sale to ship!<div>Well, I can officially say I have sold jewelry to a stranger!</div><br /><div>After having my shop on Etsy for a little over 3 months, I finally have sold something!! I've had a few generous friends make an account on <a href="http://www.etsy.com/">Etsy</a> in order to buy from me...but there's nothing like having your first (genuine, official) sale! </div><br /><div>Just thought I would share :) </div><br /><div>Now, <em>this </em>is one of the many reasons why I love making jewelry- I get to share it with the <a href="http://www.thebetterbackstore.net/DataFiles/CategoryHeaders/Images/Gift_Packages.jpg"><img style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 156px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 118px" alt="" src="http://www.thebetterbackstore.net/DataFiles/CategoryHeaders/Images/Gift_Packages.jpg" border="0" /></a>world! </div><br /><div>And- I have found another! Packaging! Tailoring the ribbons and cardstock to the piece that I am shipping and my branding personality!</div><br /><div>Yes, I will definitely remain selling Handmade on Etsy :)</div>Ashleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02810751864572355913noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2697731865020141541.post-2937560437750751502010-06-10T14:32:00.002-05:002010-06-10T14:57:43.710-05:00Suspended, everything happens for a reason :)Alright, so I am a HUGE fan of <a href="http://www.etsy.com/">Etsy</a> and the community there. The people are nothing short of amazing, and never hesitate to help one another out. One of my favorite groups of people are my promoting buddies on a <a href="http://www.etsy.com/forums_thread.php?thread_id=6540572&page=1">Promoting Forum</a>.<br /><br />I've been struggling with a question for a while : Should I promote the fact that I'm only 16?!<br /><br />So, I decided to ask the Etsy Community, with a <a href="http://www.etsy.com/forums_thread.php?thread_id=6542678&page=1">thread of my own</a>. The reaction: everything I hoped it would be. In about 40 minutes, I got 40 responses to this question. And, let me tell you, there was a WHOLE lot of information I gained from it.<br /><br />Basically: DON'T promote it on Etsy, but DO promote it in your Blog, FB Fan Page, and Twitter.<br /> Try seeking local media, or younger targeted media for publicity. (one of the posters listed a shop that was featured in Seventeen Magazine : <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/MarciG?page=1">Marci G's</a><br /><br />I also got in contact with another shop that was started with a 16 year old. <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/madelaine" target="_blank">http://www.etsy.com/shop/madelaine</a> A shop full of eerie photography. She's 19 now, and plenty successful. A couple of others who had posted in the forum "convoed" me later, after an Administrator closed the thread. They just wanted to give me encouragement, telling me to never give up on what I believe in, and that they wished they had started when they were 16 :)<br /><br />The only downfall: The same admin. that closed the thread suspended me from the community. So, no more forums, Virtual Labs (which I had just newly discovered) and chat (which I hadn't used yet) BUT I don't regret making that thread...as <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/PoleStar">PoleStar </a>said in a post "...Just look at it as a way to focus more on your shop. The community areas can be a time suck."<br /><br />So, with that in mind, I am closing the computer and getting to work on some new designs :)Ashleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02810751864572355913noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2697731865020141541.post-70017399729626103372010-06-04T10:20:00.014-05:002010-06-04T12:35:45.935-05:00Following His lead<a href="http://www.houstonfreeways.com/modern/images/2007-05-13_i10/IMG_6668_i10_near_mm335_dirt_road_20070512_980.jpg"><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 567px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 295px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://www.houstonfreeways.com/modern/images/2007-05-13_i10/IMG_6668_i10_near_mm335_dirt_road_20070512_980.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div>I have always pictured a very long, dusty road when I think of a "journey". When people talk about following where God leads down this journey, the pathway of life, I picture a pitiful scene. Where God is in a trailor in front of me leading the way while I walk behind. I am covered in dust and sweat. I am tired and exhasted, and am supplied with only a cup of water every few miles.<br /><br />Before I continue, be forewarned that this post will be particularly long ;) So, grab your Bible and set aside some time to spend with me as we look into some of the truths of the love God has for us. Men are invited to join as well, but I don't think you will attain this information on the particular level that us females will. Alright, here we go.<br /><br />For the past two summers, while I am out of school I isolate myself to spend some time with God and His word. And, for the past two summers He has brought me back to the same subject- His love for me.<br /><br />Last summer, it was a website, called <a href="http://http//www.jimmyneedham.com/kellyspage.php">Kelly's Page</a> (this website=amazing, go to it if you're struggling with "waiting" for the right guy or...if you want to furthur experience the love God has for you!) This page was found after looking at my favorite artist's website- Jimmy Needham...so after you go to Kelly's page, go listen to his wonderful music!! :)<br /><br />This summer, it was a dusty old book that was found, not even fully read. But, the title caught my attention: <em>Do You Think I'm Beautiful? </em>Honestly, I am not that insecure about the way I look, yet I really wanted to read this book.Well I read the last chapter this morning, had to share everything that I've gained from it. These next paragraphs are going to be intermixing of my own thoughts and passages from Angela Thomas's book- which will be surrounded by (" ")<br /><br />The moment one accepts Christ, there is a wedding. The bride accepts and receives a Groom to spend the rest of her life with. This Groom is there to have, to hold. In sickness and in health, for richer and for poorer. He is there for her, although she might not realize that until trials come and He is by her side. His Perfect Love never fails.<br /><br />"When God looks into the eyes of a women, He sees all the beauty He created there. He sees every potential and every gift. He sees what can be and redeems what has been. He loves the curly hair that you wish were straight. He is taken with your smile and the shape of your nose. He's crazy about big feet and knobby knees and every curve that is particular to you. He is the One who loves the inside <em>and</em> the outside of you. You were all His idea, and you are physically and emotionally beautiful to Him. Do you want to dance?"<br /><br />Life after salvation is the reception. A dance. Following Christ -> our Groom is not a long, dusty road. It is a waltz, a two-step, an electric slide. God will be there for us <em>always. </em>We have to be the ones to take His hand when he asks us to dance. "When God says, 'Come dance with Me' He is not saying you have to know all the steps. This is the God of all creation who provides the music, sets the stage, takes you by the hand, and then leads. If you wil<a href="http://www.heartsoledance.com/Portals/0/WeddingImages/WedCoupleBlur70300Web.jpg"><img style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 430px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 324px" alt="" src="http://www.heartsoledance.com/Portals/0/WeddingImages/WedCoupleBlur70300Web.jpg" border="0" /></a>l rest in His arms, you can trust every turn that He takes. You do not have to look behind you to see where you are going because you can trust that He is watching."<br /><br />The more dependant we are, the more we allow Him to lead, the better dancers we are. There is no doubt we will trip, mistep, and fall altogether. But God will pick us up, dust us off and hold us close as we continue to dance with Him. Hold His gaze, move as one. If you let Him lead, you will easily follow. "The dance is you in the arms of God gliding around the center of the room, becoming the woman He thought of when He dreamed of you...To dance is to grab hold of what you were made to be and then let Him show you how to <em>become.</em>"<br /><br />We are not the leaders in this dance. Sorry, but every one of us are too clumsy and frail to perform a single dance move without God's lead (John 15:5). We may be the worst dancers the world has ever seen, but God takes us and through Him makes us a beautiful bride, one with class and elegance. When we let God lead, His perfect plans are fulfilled through our lives! His love for you is unfailing, He calls you beautiful! Don't believe me?<br /></div><ul><li>Isaiah 54:10</li><br /><li>Psalm 121: 3-8</li><br /><li>Ephesians 4:14-19<br /></li></ul><p align="center"><a href="http://www.weddingstand.com/articles/assets_c/2009/09/bride%20and%20mirror-thumb-350x233-6660.jpg"><img style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 296px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 203px" alt="" src="http://www.weddingstand.com/articles/assets_c/2009/09/bride%20and%20mirror-thumb-350x233-6660.jpg" border="0" /></a></p><p align="center">Psalm 45:10-15:<br />Listen, O daughter, consider and give ear: Forget your people and your father's house. The King is <em>enthralled by your beauty</em>; honor Him, for He is your Lord...All glorious is the princess within her chamber; her gown is interwoven with gold. In embroidered garments she is lead to the King...They are led in with joy and gladness; they enter the palace of the King.<br /></p><p align="left"><br /><em>"Enthralled </em>by your beauty. That means captivated, smitten, fascinated, spellbound, and delighted. That's exactly how the prince feels about the princess in fairy tales. But this sentiment is not fiction. Enthralled is how God in heaven feels about you. He is taken with you. Undistracted. Intensely interested. Emotionally connected. He enjoys your laughter and takes pleasure in the way you think. He is not bored with you, and He would never consider you ordinary. There is no way you will ever go unnoticed with God. You are beautiful to Him. Incredibly, breathtakingly beautiful. When a man feels this way about a woman, we say that he is in love.<br /></p><p align="left">You may have heard that God loves you, but maybe you have been like me and misunderstood. His love for you is not just a 'whole world in His hands' kind of love. This love is individual. God and you. One-on-one. Intimate. Personal. Romantic.<br /><br />God's love for you is passionate and pure and without reservation. He never holds back or plays games with your heart. There are no riddles with God. This kind of love does not stand you up. He always shows up, always remembers, and always keeps His promises. God's love is unrelenting. He does not turn away <em>even if you do</em>. His excitement over you does not wane. God's love is not some namby-pampy kindergarten crush. He is not fickle. God has seen you across the room, and He cannot take His eyes off you.<br /><a href="http://bryllupet.files.wordpress.com/2009/06/love-heart-cloud.jpg"><img style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 395px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 295px" alt="" src="http://bryllupet.files.wordpress.com/2009/06/love-heart-cloud.jpg" border="0" /></a></p><div>Do you get this? Do you hear me describing the love that you long for on this earth? Does this sound like the love you have been looking for all of your life? Maybe you have tasted this love in relationships or in marriage, yet you recognize that there is still a deeper longing. Is your heart pounding,'Yes that's the love I have imagined'? Our desires reflect our design. That love that God has for us is the love your soul was made for. It is an intimate, vulnerable, completing kind of love.</div><div></div><div>Satan whispers lies to you That God really <em>doesn't</em> love you, that you are certainly <em>not </em>beautiful! That at the dance, your only rightful position is to be a wallflower. No one would ever want to dance with someone like you!<br /></div><br /><div>When you are wrapped in the arms of Christ, dancing with Him, Satan will try to cut in. Over, and over, and over again. But if you are holding on so tightly to your Dance Partner, you will never even realize he is there.</div><div></div><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 480px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 250px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://www.bainbridgeballroom.com/info/info/standard_files/img_8887.jpg" border="0" /><br /><div>Enough watching, already. That's it. One foot in front of the other. One step at a time. Find the rhythm. There you go. Now, this isn't so bad, is it? I knew you had it in you. Wait a minute, I think you're smiling! Nope, it's more that a smile. It's something deeper. Something more brilliant. Can you see it? Can you feel it? You are beautiful. Yes, you. Breathtaking.</div>Ashleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02810751864572355913noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2697731865020141541.post-56426817407435533632010-05-28T12:00:00.003-05:002010-05-28T12:09:44.910-05:00I discovered Treasuries!I've never created Treasuries before, and I love it!! Here are the two I've created so far...<br /><br />Roses Aren't Always Red:<br /><p><a href="http://www.etsy.com/treasury/4bfc21da77b16d9177163a6b/roses-arent-always-red">http://www.etsy.com/treasury/4bfc21da77b16d9177163a6b/roses-arent-always-red</a></p><p>and Shops Without Sales: </p><p>(though their products are <em>beautiful</em>!)</p><p><a href="http://www.etsy.com/treasury/4bfeb6895c9a6d91883f2eac/shops-without-sales">http://www.etsy.com/treasury/4bfeb6895c9a6d91883f2eac/shops-without-sales</a><br /></p>Ashleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02810751864572355913noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2697731865020141541.post-821720268250492912010-05-22T14:34:00.007-05:002010-05-22T14:59:39.552-05:00Ice Cream Week!<a href="http://www.orgs.bucknell.edu/res_halls/RTK/KRSS/K3/ice-cream-cones.jpg"><img style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 262px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 341px" alt="" src="http://www.orgs.bucknell.edu/res_halls/RTK/KRSS/K3/ice-cream-cones.jpg" border="0" /></a> Ice cream week is something that I've been looking forward to, as well as DREADING!<br /><br /><br /><div>My foreign exchange student (sister) is leaving on the 26<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">th</span> :(( 4 DAYS! Back in January we planned the last week before she leaves for Brazil will be ICE CREAM WEEK! And now that's it is here, it is really, really sad (except for the Ice cream part...)</div><div></div><br /><div>Honestly, last year when I knew that we were going to have a foreign exchange student this year...I wasn't that excited. It was mostly for my older sister, Amanda who (was) living at home while going to college. When I started e-mailing her during the summer, I realized that even though she lived in a <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">separate</span> hemisphere, we were SO MUCH ALIKE! --crazy!</div><br /><div></div><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 514px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 254px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://attorneygeneral.utah.gov/cmsimages/US_Brazil.jpg" border="0" /><br /><div>This past year has been one that I will honest-to-goodness NEVER forget. I can't even list all the memories that we've shared this past year together. It seems as though I've known her my entire life! Last night I had even mistaken her <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">presence</span> at a wedding that happened two years ago!</div><br /><br /><div>A lot of the other families who hosted foreign exchange students haven't come half as close as me and Ana have...I think that when a family signs up to have someone else living in their house for a year that's all they sign up for. What I mean by that is they don't realize the experience they <em>could</em> have. You need to put forth a little effort! Risk a couple of <em>late nights</em> and <em>time</em> to <strong>listen</strong> and <strong>trust</strong> someone else with your stories, problems, faith, feelings...etc.</div><br /><br /><div>I can't express the relationship that Ana and I have. I KNOW that it will last, we will be an <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">essential</span> part of one <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">another's</span> lives up until we leave this earth. I thank God everyday that He put her in my life...</div>Ashleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02810751864572355913noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2697731865020141541.post-8519652468755657712010-05-18T16:58:00.008-05:002010-05-18T21:52:06.213-05:00First attempt at experimenting for a niche...<div><div>As you may know, I have a shop on Etsy (<a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/Ashewelry">http://www.etsy.com/shop/Ashewelry</a>) and all I hear about on the forums is how you need a niche to be sucessful. I realize that there are hundreds of others selling jewelry on <a href="http://www.etsy.com/">Etsy</a>, and so, I started to plan experiments for realizing a niche. </div><div> </div></div><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5472807443625929170" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_S3HvQJnqpiI/S_NRX7Fv6dI/AAAAAAAAAEk/j221mhxwupo/s400/CIMG0761.JPG" border="0" /><br /><div>My first experiment: Preserving Fresh flowers in Polyresin as jewelry components. I have seen only two shops- <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/TropicaliaCouture">Tropicalia Couture</a> and <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/RoyalPrincess">Royal Princess </a>on Etsy sucessfully do this, so I figured, why not give it a try? After researching the process, buying the supplies, and picking my flowers I began this process. About at this point is when it started going...downhill :(</div><br /><div>I broke only two while removing them from silicia gel, broke off petals while appling several coats of polyresin...and when I finally was hopeful to be finished, I used 3 sucessful daffodils to make a necklace for mother's day (for a test-run). To my dismay, within five minutes, a jumpring tore a connected petal :( Turns out six layers of polyresin is <em>NOT</em> enough.</div><br /><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5472805225944879714" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_S3HvQJnqpiI/S_NPW1lYkmI/AAAAAAAAAEc/0TtM9eGMLmM/s400/CIMG0718.JPG" border="0" /></div><div>I hate to give up so soon, but with two batches of beautiful flowers gone to waste, (except for the grand total of 4 flowers shown at the top of the post) and many hours along with it. This would be different if I enjoyed smelling like resin and paint thinner, but this is not the case! So, I move on to my next experiment, have any ideas? :)</div></div>Ashleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02810751864572355913noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2697731865020141541.post-48379194482933432062010-05-17T16:48:00.011-05:002010-05-18T21:14:35.805-05:00Averagitis - aka The disease of settling for "Average"I decided to post this after one of my random thought tangents...<br /><br />Yesterday was that Graduation I posted about earlier, and the closing speech sounded a tad bit depressing...to some. Our Stuco President, Perry is quite the speaker. So, automatically he had every one's attention, and now I bet most of them wish they didn't listen.<br /><br />Perry spoke about how almost everyone sitting in front of him (Graduates of 2010) had dreams of their future, and how only a hand full will actually attain it. He then addressed the crowd- parents who once had like dreams, and <em>settled</em> to live in a small town called Towanda, earning an unimpressive wage at a 5-9 job. That they had accepted it as their dream, compromising with reality and everything that comes with it.<br /><br />He then went on to define our society's view of "Success" which of course is being wealthy, healthy, and powerful. I wish that I had actually followed through with the thought "Oh! I should ask him for a copy of that speech!" Because at this point is where I would insert a heart wrenching, yet all to true fact of his.<br /><br />As he continued with his speech, I began to reflect on my business- Ashewelry. I have dreams to be successful at marketing, selling online, quitting my "day job" and owning my own Brick-and-Mortar shop after completing High School and College. (Yes...I'm still in High School)<br /><p><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5472369340077739858" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 222px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_S3HvQJnqpiI/S_HC68MSj1I/AAAAAAAAAD8/z6VsSOkXSwc/s320/78_Jewelry%5B1%5D.jpg" border="0" /></p>I worry about actually making it, giving up...and his speech reminded me- <em>I CANNOT SETTLE!</em> I can't degrade my efforts and dreams f<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_S3HvQJnqpiI/S_HCDDkldtI/AAAAAAAAAD0/9yFhHrksZyg/s1600/78_Jewelry%5B1%5D.jpg"></a>or anyone! This is essential- for all people, especially Entrepreneurs! We're <strong>Entrepreneurs</strong> for goodness sake! It's what we DO! :)<br /><br /><br />I don't know if anyone will ever read this post, but I have still gained something in writing it. Something to look back on, so I cannot settle. For. Any. Reason. If you have been somehow encouraged by this post, please let me know. We can overcome averagitis together ;)<br /><br />~AshleyCayleneAshleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02810751864572355913noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2697731865020141541.post-32720460816932016522010-05-01T14:26:00.006-05:002010-05-01T15:18:06.641-05:00Graduation, Summer and upcoming projects!<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_S3HvQJnqpiI/S9yFMa_z-pI/AAAAAAAAAC8/K6HKMnzSqxc/s1600/graduation%5B1%5D.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5466390496172833426" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 249px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_S3HvQJnqpiI/S9yFMa_z-pI/AAAAAAAAAC8/K6HKMnzSqxc/s320/graduation%5B1%5D.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div><span style="font-family:lucida grande;">The (school) year is ending, and that means graduation- of course. It usually doesn't truly effect me that much, but it does this year...I've had SO many good relationships with this year's seniors and it will be EXTREMELY tough to see them go. But when I really think about it, I'm bound to see them again, they'll probably come back in the next year to watch a game, see a play...etc. And I know that I'll be so busy next year that I might not even notice their gone...<br /><br />To tell you the truth, I think I will only notice the absence of two people. One being my sister (our families exchange student from Brazil), Ana. Even thinking about her leaving makes me teary eyed... The other is someone who seems to make every day survivable, pretty much my motivation to get up out of bed every day is to be encouraged by him. But (Lord willing) I'm convinced that I will see him frequently during the summer, before he leaves to go to K-State. And that we'll keep in close contact throughout the next several years. Honestly, he's one of those guys that seem to good to be true...and I know that God put him in my life for a good reason. But I might save that for another blog :)<br /><br />Summer brings a bunch of things! Busyness out the wazoo! :) Many, many activities crowd my summer, but I hope to make some quality time to do some experimenting with my jewelry...like mixed media- flowers, resin, feathers, clay (I'm SO EXCITED!)--stay posted to see the new additions!<br /><br />~AshleyCaylene </span></div>Ashleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02810751864572355913noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2697731865020141541.post-48335004199120212292010-04-26T16:48:00.001-05:002010-05-01T15:18:58.689-05:00So, after creating this page a couple of weeks ago, here's my first blog! --Typical of me :)<br />You who are reading this may have just clicked on my profile to find out what the heck "Ashewelry" means...well it's Ashley's Jewelry :)<br />Yes! I make jewelry, I haven't been able to stop since I read my first <em><a href="http://www.beadstylemag.com/">BeadStyle</a></em> magazine at my local library. This has grown into such a hobby that I plan on owning my own business- selling my jewelry! Crazy? Maybe! But for now, I'm starting out small. I have an album on <em>Facebook</em> devoted to showing (and selling) my creations to my friends and family, and also a shop online through <em>Etsy</em> at <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/Ashewelry">http://www.etsy.com/shop/Ashewelry</a> (which is my listed homepage) I'd highly recommend that you check it out! :)<br />Please post anything and everything to help me out, I'd apreciate it! -Whether it be encouragement, advise, or just letting me know that you read this! Thanks!<br /><br />~AshleyCayleneAshleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02810751864572355913noreply@blogger.com0