An Etsy Shop Update ~ Cyber Monday Sale

I've been on a journey, a pleasant one. I opened my Etsy shop on January 24, 2012 and God has really taught me about myself through this endeavor. I've learned patience and humility (just to name a few) and I know that He will continue to teach me. Aside from learning a lot, I've so enjoyed the crafting, packaging and shipping aspect of business. It gives me an adrenaline rush!

It being Cyber Monday and all, I thought that my readers would like a little treat and so... I'm offering a special deal for today that I'm sure you're all going to enjoy. 

For purchases made on Cyber Monday shoppers can use coupon code CMKK40 for a 40% discount.

And an added bonus: For each person who places an order during the Cyber Monday Sale, I'll be sending you a FREE Post-It Note Pad holder! 

Keep checking here and over at the shop because I'll be adding tons of new items in the upcoming months. You won't want to miss it!

Life Via Instagram 0001

//i'm lovin it// //baby-cam, notes and numbers// new...ur old blog post// //lovely leaves//

//my beloved canvas// he's president...again// watching the polls// good humor//

//hurricane sandy// good read// sunlight is the bomb// my scentsy//

Want to check out my feed? Search @kianna_rose on instagram

The Babysitter's Club

Last night was the first time I've babysat! Of course, I've watched my little sister and a few kids during Tuesday service but that hardly counts. 

About a year or so ago, we met Laura, our new neighbor from California. We've talked a bit, have had tea and cake and see each other ever so often. After I turned 15, Laura asked me if I would like to babysit little Donald.

She said, "You know 15 is prime age for babysitting."

I was super excited when my mother told me about last night's offer. Giddy with excitement, I began planning what I'd do with the little guy and hoped that we'd hit it off well. I hoped that he'd feel comfortable around me and that God would spare me from having to change any dirty diapers:) But, I would if necessary...

When I got there, Laura and Donald Sr. gave me permission to raid their cupboards, use their computer and talk on the phone. I didn't do any of that... I'd just feel really weird rummaging through someone's kitchen and then start blogging. The two headed off for a dinner date and there I was, just me and the sleeping baby. Donald slept the whole time, much to my disappointment. (I've yet to really meet him) Since I had tons of free time on my hands, I got time to admire the couple's lovely apartment and of course document my experience on instagram. (@kianna_rose)

Here are the two shots from my feed.

 //baby-cam, notes and numbers//

//i'm lovin' it//

Looking Over Old Letters

To send a letter is a good way to go somewhere without moving anything but your heart. 

 ~Phyllis Theroux

Over the years, I've collected letters, birthday cards and special notes from my friends and family. When I get some spare time I like to look over them all and after, I count my blessings. Each personal note was written just for me. I love reading them over and over, thinking back on "old times" with special friends or funny moments and memories. Each letter holds words, yes, but also memories that I always hope to cherish.

My favorite letters have been those that have brought encouragement and like the quote above says, they move my heart and sometimes... spur on tears. 

My favorite letters have been those of my cousin. She writes little notes that let me know she has been thinking about me and always asks pardon for her handwriting. It's beautiful, by the way.

My favorite letters have been those that don't say anything at all but have been drawings and scribbles from busy, yet thoughtful little hands.

So, I want all of my letter writers to know, I keep each and every one.

What are your favorite letters?

And The President of United States Is...

After months of campaigning, Barack Obama has won the 2012 Presidential elections. The race was tight but in the end, Obama secured his position as the 44th President of the United States.

Being only 15 years old, I know that I can't vote... yet, but I know that the "winner" was in God's hands. I have prayed throughout the campaigning and election that whomever wins, will be useful and positively influential to the U.S. I've prayed that this President will govern righteously and make Biblically aligned decisions. We think we know who would be a better President but God puts whom He chooses in power.

...he sets up kings and deposes them.

Daniel 2:21b

I've carefully considered both candidates and thought, "If you could, who would you vote for?" My "decision" (is private) was based upon my spiritual and moral convictions and when I do vote in 2016, that will be the method I use to select a President. 

Though he will probably never read this post, I pray that the President may remember and heed this warning,

From everyone who has been given much, much will be demanded; and from the one who has been entrusted with much, much more will be asked.
Luke 12:48b



and always remember,

For nothing is impossible with God

Luke 1:37

And readers, never cease to pray for our authorities, like the Bible commands.

I urge, then, first of all, that requests, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for everyone-- for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness.

1 Timothy 2:1-2

P.S. I'm super excited to vote at the next election. Watch out America, there's going to be a new voter in town!!!

Hurricane Sandy: My Story

I've had a hearty dinner with my family. I've showered and will soon be off to a warm bed. I think on how many fellow New Yorkers are living without these amenities at this very moment, nearly a week since Hurricane Sandy began. Many are without water, heat, electricity and some have gone days without food.

On Sunday October 28, 2012 I was told that a hurricane was making it's way over to New York. I didn't think much of it because last year's hurricane Irene didn't do much damage. It lasted a day or so and that was it. After church on Sunday, I was hearing talk of 60 mph winds, Con Edison (electricity provider in NY) planning to shut off electricity and the threats a major hurricane could pose to my city. My mind went into fast action mode and wondered if Hurricane Sandy could do as much damage as Hurricane Katrina. 

Once safe in the confines of my apartment, I had no idea that outside the brick facade, there were winds violently raging and tossing about.

Monday morning we went to my grandma's house and watched the news. What I saw and heard from that day until now has left me... shocked! Storm surges, out-if-control fires, gas shortages, starvation and more than 50 people dead or missing is unthinkable. 

Having a church service on Wednesday proved pretty much impossible so we had home church. Before the service began, we considered a portion of scripture; one that I think was perfect for the trial we were facing.

God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear, though the earth give way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea, though its waters roar and foam and the mountains quake with their surging 

Psalm 46:1-3

I think on this verse and the fact that Jesus is the calm in the midst of the storm. I put my trust in him and know that through Him, I can be strong.

You're probably reading this and are thinking, "Wow, she was at the heart of this catastrophe " Thank God I was not! I was safe but could hear the winds, pelting rain and even saw the hood of a SmartCar begin ripped off of the car. 

Can you imagine my surprise when I came home to see all of this right in front of my building?

A once strong and very much alive tree is now down and on it's way to death.

Uprooted roots ave made their way above the surface.

Can any good come out of this disaster? Yes, every cloud has a silver lining, and the silver lining in this situation was that a sister of our church gave birth on November 1, 2012. We don't know the name and won't find out until she is presented.

I wanted to thank all of my blogger friends who texted me and messaged me via instagram to make sure that I was okay. Thanks Kathryn, Arianna and Hadassah. 

The Awkward and The Awesome

THE AWKWARD

Coming home after Hurricane Sandy to find a fallen tree right laying in front of my apartment building. (Stay tuned for a Hurricane Sandy post.)

Getting really behind on my must-do list.

Not instagram-ing in almost a week... I think. 

Going to Target and a woman takes a shirt out my hand, comments on how pretty it is and then hands it back to me.

Slipping (and nearly falling) because I'm walking around the house with my socks.

Calling WEN hair care just to see if the sale price of $29.95 is still in effect and abruptly hanging up.

THE AWESOME

Sharing my words of thanks for my Pastor on Pastor's Appreciation Day. Thank you Jesus for my Pastor!

Sleepovers at grandma's house.

Finishing another blog design and the author loves it. Thank you Jesus for the gifts and grace!

My dad bringing me my favorite chocolate, Reese's Peanut Buttercups:)

Reading A Quiet Strength by Janette Oke with my mom.

Drawing the great fish that swallowed Jonah with the little sister. It makes me laugh every time she says Tarshish. 

Ice cream and a good ol' fashion Christian movie with the family.

A clean room and the canvas I got for my birthday is displayed on my book shelf.

Snuggled up in a fur blanket and reading late into the night.