Monday Lovin’

Published on October 6, 2014October 5, 2014 by Caitlin Snyder1 Comment

It’s Monday, which means one thing – it’s time for Monday Lovin’! I’m taking a break today from my 31 day writing challenge, #write31days, to celebrate Monday, the start of another week. While it is difficult to pull myself out of bed, it is a fresh start, which is refreshing after a crazy weekend and during a busy season at work.

Right now I’m rejoicing that Gilmore Girls is finally on Netflix. True life: I almost gave myself an ulcer in high school because I drank A LOT of black coffee trying to be as cool as Lorelei Gilmore. Yes, that is a true story. I cannot wait to curl up with a cup of coffee (now with ample creamer and Splenda) and hang out with Lorelei and Rory, wondering how I can have their metabolisms and quick wit.

I gave up drinking pop back in August because of the mass qualities that I was consuming and out of a desire to put better things in my body. While I haven’t had any soda since, I have started drinking more coffee. Which is one of the things I am loving right now, and the cooler temperatures are making it even more enjoyable. I have a fun mug at work just so I can drink my coffee every morning.

This weekend, I traveled down to Bloomington for an IU tailgate. It was bitter cold, but the time I spent with friends, the Mother Bear’s Pizza and the mimosas were totally worth it. I am continually grateful for my four years at IU and the relationships I built there that continue to be a highlight in my life.

Happy Monday! Tomorrow I’ll be back talking about grace again, see you here!

Monday Lovin’

Published on September 30, 2014September 30, 2014 by Caitlin SnyderLeave a comment

My 13 year old brother made a public declaration that Jesus is the Lord of his life this weekend. Watching Jake get baptized was one of the sweetest moments of my entire life.

I spent three summers at my parents house in Cincinnati while I was in college. Since Jake is 10 years younger than me, he was a constant companion during those summers. I would take him on errands with me, take him to lunch and try to convince him to spend time with me, making up for the lost time when I was away at school. I used these summers to tell him all about Jesus. I practiced the sharing the Gospel with him and often asked him spiritual questions that were way over his preteen head. But somewhere a long the line, seeds were planted by me and countless others, God watered those seeds and now roots are taking form. Praise God!

He is learning at thirteen what I started to learn as an eighteen year old – following Jesus is worth it. There’s nothing else worthy of giving my life to apart from Christ. Jake has a long road ahead of him, part of me feels relived that I did not walk with Jesus in high school – high school is hard enough, but on the other hand, how comforting would it have been to know that I was enough for God as I walked through hard years of friendships and grades. Whatever age we come to be saved at, it takes a heart level change to realize that compared to following after Jesus, everything else is a loss. Jesus is worth it.

“Baptism doesn’t save you, it’s what saved people do.” -James MacDonald

Monday Lovin’

Published on September 22, 2014September 22, 2014 by Caitlin SnyderLeave a comment

About six weeks ago, after a weekend of confessing that I was not experiencing much joy and living life on autopilot, I sat down and made a list of things that were life-giving for me. The list consisted of reading, writing, running, cooking, listening, encouraging and crafting. This list is in the first few pages of my journal. When I’m starting to be drained, I look back on the list and remember where to start feeling like myself again. These activities help guard against the numbness that I have confessed comes too easily and is too comfortable to me in this two job working, trying to balance everything season of life.

This weekend, I was able to do a little bit of everything.

I made a dinner with a beautiful friend and we shared what was going on in our lives and our hearts. I’ve been friends with her for five years and the conversations we shared on Friday may have been some of the best we’ve ever had. I’m thankful fro friends who go deep, talk about insecurities and don’t judge you when you talk about yours.

A run before dinner on Friday and a run around the Indianapolis canal on Saturday morning with a friend were the perfect ways to enjoy the fall weather that has descended upon Indianapolis. Despite the havoc that fall causes my allergies, I try to squeeze in some time outside in the mild temperatures.

My roommate gets married so soon, and Saturday we were able to celebrate her upcoming nuptials with one of my most beautiful showers I’ve ever been to. Her aunts, mom and sister created the perfect atmosphere to honor her full of delicious food.

Saturday while spending time with a great friend, we could not seem to stop talking about grace. Oh how thankful we are for God’s grace and the ways it is never-ending. I am thankful that He uses me to demonstrate just how much grace He gives. It’s been a hard summer, wrestling with sin, exhaustion and calling, but His grace has sustained me.

Sunday morning I woke up early to decorate the windows at work. It’s a tedious task, but when it’s all done, it looks good. It’s also a rare opportunity to really get to talk with my co-workers. I left the mall with some new burns on my fingers from the hot glue gun, but some fun memories of all of us working together to create.

This Monday, I’m lovin’ running, reading, writing, cooking, spending time with sweet friends and grace. I am praying that I can find small snippets of time this week to spend time doing these activities.

PS- I’m also lovin’ this new blog and spent hours over the weekend moving all my old blogs over. More to come about that experience!

Monday Lovin’

Published on September 20, 2014 by Caitlin SnyderLeave a comment

After a jam-packed month of August, I forced myself to breathe this weekend. With clean sheets, freshly shaved legs and a rested soul, I feel ready to face the week with gratitude and enthusiasm. Instead of wanting to flip Monday morning off, I’m ready to greet her like a best friend because this Monday I’m lovin’…

1) Mexican food: Bakersfield lived up to all the hype. Margaritas, tacos and great time with friends was a perfect start to the weekend. A group of us met in downtown Indianapolis after work and re-connected. We’ve decided to make it at least a monthly tradition! What a great way to end a work week – wonderful food, tasty cocktails and beautiful friends.

birthdays

2) Two of my best friends celebrated birthdays this weekend. Oh how thankful I am for each one of them! Waking up in the morning and saying a sweet prayer to Jesus for putting them in my life put a smile on my face all weekend long. These two women have reminded me of who Jesus is, even during the darkness, hardest seasons of my life. Even when life is tough, and not meeting my expectations, I’m reminded that God sees, knows and loves me because of friends like these two. I wish I could have celebrated with each of them on their special days.

3) The Needtobreathe Pandora radio station has been my soundtrack for the past couple weeks. It’s full of fun, upbeat songs and some great Christian artists. I’ve loved listening to it in the background as I’ve worked and on long runs. It’s always fun to hear new songs and new artists that I wouldn’t ordinarily stumble upon myself. I highly encourage taking a listen!

4) I’m a summer girl, so as everyone gets excited about fall – fall clothes, pumpkin spice lattes and cooler temperatures – I roll my eyes a little bit. But, the color chartreuse (read: mustard) is a dominant color in the J.Crew fall color palate and I could not be more excited. I cannot wait to purchase an Expedition Vest in this super fall color! While the thought of party tanks, chino shorts, sundresses and flip flops going back in the back of my closet makes me want to cry, I am excited for some new colors to add into my closet.

5) I celebrated one year at MLJ Adoptions last week! I’ve loved working for this company that believes that children belong in families and is passionate about finding families for children in need. Over the past year, I have learned so many valuable lessons about advocacy, poverty, international relations, families, parenting and God’s love. I am thankful for the special stories that God has invited be to witness – stories of strong, resilient children being given a chance to thrive in a loving family environment.

Monday Lovin’

Published on September 20, 2014 by Caitlin SnyderLeave a comment

It is a Happy Monday! With a full heart and refreshed spirit, I head back into work this morning feeling encouraged by deep friendships and beautiful backdrops. When you have a friend whose parents have a lake house within driving distance, invite a fun group of people and GO! I promise you wouldn’t regret it. Oh, and wait until the second night, after a full day in the sun, to ask a deep questions. Sit back, listen, share, and encourage as people talk. It’s a sacred thing to watch.

Monday Lovin’

Published on September 20, 2014 by Caitlin SnyderLeave a comment

Happy Monday! Man, Mondays are tough, especially after a fabulous three day weekend getaway. I spent the weekend in Cleveland hanging out with two of my favorite people! I’ve known Sami for about 5 years; we met my freshman year at IU and I had no idea at the time the role she would go onto play in my life. It was Sami who introduced Jesus to me, and shared about just how much He loves me (while sitting on the floor of Ballentine Hall eating paninis). It was Sami who greeted me when I ran off the Rush Bus on Bid Day. It was Sami who I cried to over the phone the night before my grandmother’s funeral. It was Sami who introduced me to Mad Mushroom cheesy bread. It was Sami who came out with me at midnight on my 21st Birthday, even though she had to student teach in the morning.

Sami and her husband, Chris, now live in Cleveland, which is the perfect destination for a weekend away. Cleveland has awesome restaurants, breweries, parks, a beach, a cool skyline, and lots of green space. I loved getting to lay-out and eat some good food while spending time with sweet friends. We also watched Law & Order: SVU — my favorite!

Sami and Chris also recently got a dog, a golden-doodle named Graham, who is ADORABLE! He was a blast to take on walks and since he’s a puppy, he’s super playful. He’s literally the cutest thing I’ve ever seen!

Thank you Sami and Chris for hosting me this weekend! I loved having the opportunity to see Cleveland, and spend such great time with the two of you! It is such a gift to have friends who have known me over highs and lows in my life. I’m thankful for lifelong friends who remind me of just how good God is.

Monday Lovin’

Published on September 20, 2014 by Caitlin SnyderLeave a comment

Happy Monday! The morning came early for me today, and now I’m off to start another week. This week I want to choose joy over frustration, disappointment and worry. Here are some things that help me choose joy.

Great friends: There is something special about deep friendships that is good for my heart. Friends unafraid to ask hard questions, friends who can jump from a serious topic to a witty one-liner without notice, friends who tell you what you need to hear without prompting. Relationships are worth the fight.

My job: Adoption comes at a high cost, both emotionally and financially, and with risk. I believe God honors the risk. There are two specific stories of kiddos whose lives have been changed by adoption and for them it has meant life. On days when it’s hard to get out of bed or the monotony is a little draining, I think of the faces of the sweet kids to whom adoption is one of the ways God is redeeming their pasts.

I am enough and I have enough: This new saying of mine is helping me remember that things aren’t going to make me happy and to not use spending money to escape from reality. Real life is hard work, the mornings come early and there’s always another bill due or meal to cook, but mixed in with the real is really rich moments that I miss if I’m trying to numb myself to the hard stuff.

Monday Lovin’

Published on September 20, 2014 by Caitlin SnyderLeave a comment

Happy Monday! Mondays seems more difficult in the summer when the weekends are packed with fun things. Last weekend was full of excitement, and I spent all last week recovering, only to have another exciting weekend. I feel so blessed to have special friends to do life with. It seems that these days there’s always something worth celebrating! Things I’m loving this Monday:

1.) About a month ago, I had shared that I loved being able to join support teams of my friends going on mission trips or going into vocational ministry. Even more fun is getting their prayer letters updating me on how God is moving. As I opened my mail this past week, I was giddy reading about the ways God is using my dear friends to take the Gospel to new places. Prayer letters are the best!

2.) This bride. She’s a special one. I loved having the opportunity to celebrate her two weeks before she gets married. I have no doubt in my mind that she’s going to make an excellent Mrs. Cooper!

3.) Fresh fruit. ‘Tis the season for yummy fruit! I loved being about to go to the grocery store this weekend and load up on fruit for the week. I cannot wait to satisfy my sweet tooth with things that are good for me and not just junk. (Although… ice cream!)

4.) Summer vacation adventures. I’ve managed to save up all my PTO since I started working in September to use for fun times this summer. I cannot wait for a beach vacation with my extended family, time in Cleveland, a lake weekend and finishing up the summer in Las Vegas. It’s hard to believe that I will have taken two Las Vegas vacations in the 2014. I’m so blessed to have friends who live all over the country who are eager for visitors!

Monday Lovin’

Published on September 20, 2014 by Caitlin SnyderLeave a comment

I’ve been slacking on Monday Lovin’; partially because I’m a workaholic and partially because I’ve just been so busy, but I figured better late than never this week. Without further ado, the things I’m loving this week.

1) The Pacers. Being raised in Cincinnati, I’ve gotten to root for whichever NBA team I wanted. In high school, LeBron James played for Cleveland, and so my family rooted for Cleveland. Then he left, and my dad being the huge sports fan that he is, decided that he was still going to root for LeBron. Moving to Indianapolis this fall has put me in an awkward position sports wise. It’s a no brainer to root for IU sports, and I’ve always liked the Colts, but the Pacers have taken more time. Needless to say, I’m pulling for the Pacers. It’s fun to see a city rally around their athletes and their teams. I also love the way the Pacers play as a team and not as individuals; it’s so encouraging.

2) Summer. While it goes without saying, I’m already loving the summer time. Warm weather, fruity drinks, and lots of time by the pool – it puts everyone in a better mood. If you haven’t already, I recommend you try the Coors Light Summer Brew; it’s fantastic!

3) The Monon. While training for the mini marathon, I fell in love with the Monon. My love affair didn’t end with the race. This summer my motto is “Get fast, get fit, get tan.” I’m hoping to run another half marathon this fall, and I want to train better and smarter, and that starts now, with some long runs on the Monon. It’s a good thing I like it!

4) She Reads Truth. A daily devotional right out of the Bible. It’s a great way to start my morning, or if I’m being completely honest, end my day. It’s the perfect length and right now we’re reading through Nehemiah, a book of the Bible I’ve never read through. I’m really enjoying learning more and getting to read scripture in a new way. My favorite way to study scripture is to go deep and truly pick it apart, but this is perfect for the season of life I’m in right now. Reading it every day keeps me rooted and focused on what matters. I’ve been feeling really weighed down by grown up stuff – health insurance, cars, jobs, etc. so the reminder of eternity and God’s faithfulness through the scriptures is just what I need.

I hope you enjoyed your Memorial Day weekend! I’m thankful for all those who have served our wonderful country. We are blessed because of their sacrifice! Have a great week!

Monday Lovin’

Published on September 20, 2014 by Caitlin SnyderLeave a comment

After a wonderful weekend celebrating Easter, family and spring, it’s back to the grind on this Monday morning. I’m thankful for a 9-5 job that I love, supportive friends and family and a very special church here in Indianapolis. They make the grind less mundane. This Monday I’m loving:

1.) A dad who I share lots in common with. We were all talking at Easter brunch about our personality types. My dad and I (as far as Myers-Briggs) could not be more different. However, I hold our shared interests very close to my heart. He and I both love running, in fact we’re training for a mini-marathon in 2 weeks, we love reading, Barnes and Noble is a dangerous place for us, and beer, him probably more than me, but I do like it. I am thankful for a special relationship with him.

2.) Ice Cream. When I decided to give up sweets for lent, there was still snow on the ground. I did not for one second think through how I was going to celebrate the advent of spring without ice cream. As soon as Easter hit, I didn’t waste any time – I got ice cream last night with friends! I gave up sweets to break some back habits I had with food and to start seeing it in a healthy way. I’m so thankful for these 40 days; I look at food with new eyes. Needless to say though, I’m excited that I can go get ice cream with my friends now.

3.) This book. Someone suggested it to me my sophomore year of college and each time my dad takes my sister book shopping I look for it, and yesterday it was there! I’ve devoured it; it’s that good. Shauna Niequist makes me want to be a writer, a writer who speaks of hope, reminding us about the good in the world because a good God loves us.

4.) Redemption. Easter is a beautiful holiday to remember that yes, new things are great, but even better are the things we thought were lost, but instead they’ve been given new life. I like brand new, but even more, I like worn, old, broken-in, but seen with new eyes. Some of the best friendships in my life have been those that I was ready to walk away from, but I’ve stayed in them, and watched God change me and make the friendship even more special. I’m thankful that a life in Christ means that all that has been lost will be redeemed.

Happy Monday – may you be able to delight in things that you love today 🙂