Jeffrey leaving was not fun at all, but he made the trip so much more bearable.
How does your husband show you he cares?
Remember to refresh yourself,
Kelsey
Thursday, September 17, 2015
Love letters
Jeffrey is a project manager so he has been traveling a lot. Recently he has been to New York, Brail, Uruguay, and Vegas. While he travels I relax, craft, and do any girly thing I want. Netflix has been on life time original movies for a week now. Having a spouse that travels can be difficult but having a spouse like him makes it so easy.
When Jeffrey left for his 2nd trip of the month I came home to a scavenger hunt of sweet notes. Each day I got a new "clue" leading me to the sweetest most thoughtful, romantic notes. Please note Jeffrey is not romantic at all. It is only God's grace that gave him this sweet idea that made me swoon and giggle like a teenager in love.
My love language is words of affirmation and gift so this was perfect for me. His little notes gave me reassuring words and the scavenger hunt was such a gift from the heart. I am a total romantic at heart, can you tell?
Jeffrey leaving was not fun at all, but he made the trip so much more bearable.
How does your husband show you he cares?
Remember to refresh yourself,
Kelsey
Jeffrey leaving was not fun at all, but he made the trip so much more bearable.
How does your husband show you he cares?
Remember to refresh yourself,
Kelsey
Tuesday, September 8, 2015
Top Five Beauty Products
Here is a look at my top five beauty products that I cannot live without!
1. Dry shampoo. Batiste is the best dry shampoo I have ever used and trust me, I have used a lot. This brand smells great, doesn't leave a white residue, and leaves my hair soft and natural looking.
2. Dermalogica's age smart tinted primer. I use this every.single.day! This product is sent from God. When I do not feel like wearing make-up...which is always... I use this product. It leaves my face soft, rejuvenated, and looks like I am wearing foundation. It is very light and makes my skin glow!
3. Better than Sex Mascara. I am in love with this product and the name speaks well for itself. This mascara is the best out there. It makes my unruly lashes look long, thick, and luscious.
4. Pureology shampoo and conditioner. I used this while staying at a friends house and I fell in love. This shampoo made my hair look like I should be on a hair commercial. Although it is a bit more money then I would like to spend on shampoo or conditioner, it is worth every penny. You will notice a total difference in the shine, body, and look of your hair.
5. Wet Brush. After my brush broke, I had to venture out and purchase a new one. I am so picky about my hair brushes so I did research. Yes, I actually looked up blogs and reviews on hair brushes. After a lot of reading and questions, I decided to purchase this wet brush and I am so glad I did.
1. Dry shampoo. Batiste is the best dry shampoo I have ever used and trust me, I have used a lot. This brand smells great, doesn't leave a white residue, and leaves my hair soft and natural looking.
2. Dermalogica's age smart tinted primer. I use this every.single.day! This product is sent from God. When I do not feel like wearing make-up...which is always... I use this product. It leaves my face soft, rejuvenated, and looks like I am wearing foundation. It is very light and makes my skin glow!
3. Better than Sex Mascara. I am in love with this product and the name speaks well for itself. This mascara is the best out there. It makes my unruly lashes look long, thick, and luscious.
4. Pureology shampoo and conditioner. I used this while staying at a friends house and I fell in love. This shampoo made my hair look like I should be on a hair commercial. Although it is a bit more money then I would like to spend on shampoo or conditioner, it is worth every penny. You will notice a total difference in the shine, body, and look of your hair.
5. Wet Brush. After my brush broke, I had to venture out and purchase a new one. I am so picky about my hair brushes so I did research. Yes, I actually looked up blogs and reviews on hair brushes. After a lot of reading and questions, I decided to purchase this wet brush and I am so glad I did.
What are your favorite beauty items?
Remember to refresh yourself,
Kelsey
Saturday, September 5, 2015
Goals!
I have been thinking a lot about goals and where I see myself in the next few months. I have decided to share my goals monthly with you as an accountability for myself. Any words of wisdom, prayer, or encouragement are welcome!!!
1. SAVE, SAVE, SAVE! Jeffrey and I have been really great at saving the past few years, but life likes to deplete what we do save. Our goal is to save 4 months income into an emergency savings that we DO NOT TOUCH (hopefully). We have 2 months so far so we still have a lot to save. My goal is to put our typical amount plus an extra large amount at the end of the month.
2. SCHOOL DEBT. We have zero debt. except the dreaded school loan debt. Since knowledge is power we believe this is a "good debt" to be in. Although this good debt has landed us pretty good jobs, we both have Masters degrees so our loans are significant. Our goal is to put large "chunks" of money towards this to pay it off as quickly as we can while still living life and saving.
3. GETTING ACTIVE!!! I have been L-A-Z-Y this Summer. I want to get back into fitness and running. My goal is to run 3 times a week and stay as active as possible.
4. DRINK! water that is. What were you thinking? Although I do like wine as much as the next girl in her late 20's I need more water in my life. I will go all day without a single drop of water. Now, I will have consumed 2-3 cups of coffee by noon, so you can see my concern here. Basically, my goal is to drink more water. I would like to have 1 cup of coffee and then stick to at least 8oz. of water a day.
5. PRAY!!! My faith has grown tremendously over the past few months. Now that I am working at an amazing God-centered school and attending a church we love, my faith is growing stronger. We have had a hard past year full of "what if's" and "why's". Needless to say I have left all of my questions and doubts at the cross and have decided to trust in God. My goal is to grow my faith even more. I am reading "The Power of a Praying Wife" and have already seen a difference in my pryer life. This is my most exciting goal!
I am so excited to share these goals with you. Keep a look out for updates and new goals in October! What are your goals for September?
Remember to refresh yourself,
Kelsey
1. SAVE, SAVE, SAVE! Jeffrey and I have been really great at saving the past few years, but life likes to deplete what we do save. Our goal is to save 4 months income into an emergency savings that we DO NOT TOUCH (hopefully). We have 2 months so far so we still have a lot to save. My goal is to put our typical amount plus an extra large amount at the end of the month.
2. SCHOOL DEBT. We have zero debt. except the dreaded school loan debt. Since knowledge is power we believe this is a "good debt" to be in. Although this good debt has landed us pretty good jobs, we both have Masters degrees so our loans are significant. Our goal is to put large "chunks" of money towards this to pay it off as quickly as we can while still living life and saving.
3. GETTING ACTIVE!!! I have been L-A-Z-Y this Summer. I want to get back into fitness and running. My goal is to run 3 times a week and stay as active as possible.
4. DRINK! water that is. What were you thinking? Although I do like wine as much as the next girl in her late 20's I need more water in my life. I will go all day without a single drop of water. Now, I will have consumed 2-3 cups of coffee by noon, so you can see my concern here. Basically, my goal is to drink more water. I would like to have 1 cup of coffee and then stick to at least 8oz. of water a day.
5. PRAY!!! My faith has grown tremendously over the past few months. Now that I am working at an amazing God-centered school and attending a church we love, my faith is growing stronger. We have had a hard past year full of "what if's" and "why's". Needless to say I have left all of my questions and doubts at the cross and have decided to trust in God. My goal is to grow my faith even more. I am reading "The Power of a Praying Wife" and have already seen a difference in my pryer life. This is my most exciting goal!
I am so excited to share these goals with you. Keep a look out for updates and new goals in October! What are your goals for September?
Remember to refresh yourself,
Kelsey
Monday, August 10, 2015
Presently
The Nelson's have been back on the East Coast for two weeks now. We jumped back into reality and boy has it been fun, exciting, stressful, and crazy all at the same time. Here is what I am loving presently!
1. Succulents! Maybe its the desert-like heat in Charleston, the lack of water or the West Coast moving in, but I am in love with succulents. We even made our own garden. Maybe I will keep these alive.
2. Reading. Jeffrey and I have been traveling a TON. We have been back and forth to Georgia, Virginia, and everywhere in between. Needless to say we have spent a million hours in the car and half a million of those are me with a kindle in my hand. Currently reading: An Ember in the Ashes and currently loving it!
3. FALL!!!!! I saw a pumpkin at Hobby Lobby this weekend and got so excited about cold weather, leaves, boots, and sweaters! Lets not discuss the fact that it is only August. There are pumpkins out which means Fall is HERE.... almost! These boots are on my Fall "wish list"!
4. Teaching. I moved into my new classroom and have met all of my co-workers! I am enjoying teaching again SO much! I love my students, parents, co-workers, and school! Basically I LOVE MY JOB!!!!
5. Listening to Silento's Watch Me on repeat. I first heard this song in San Francisco, so it holds a special place in my heart in addition to a groovy beat in my head. I can't help but get up and "white-girl" dance!
I hope you're enjoying the last few days of summer. Lets all whip and nae nae into Fall with pumpkin lattes in our hands!
Remember to refresh yourself,
Kelsey
Tuesday, August 4, 2015
Lessons!
After our amazing vacation, I began reflecting on myself and who I am as a person. I have changed A LOT in the past year. Here are a few things I have learned:
1. I LOVE THE CITY! I am all about walking everywhere, taking the tram, and having buildings full of new places at your disposal. I love people watching and seeing the hustle and bustle. I even love being a part of the busy, always moving city life. Being in the city allows me to release energy which you all know I have. If you don't know me, well... I have SO MUCH ENERGY!!! My nickname was/is the energizer bunny, so the city is perfect for me!
2. I really like red wine. I was one of those that could barely finish a glass of red wine in five hours. Now, I have refined my pallet and I love red wine. The more bitter, the better. On our trip we were taught how to taste and drink wine properly. I feel so fancy now. Like I have been admitted into a secret wine club!
3. I cannot spell. This is not new to me at all. The realization is that I don't care. I am all about correct grammar and speaking well, but spelling isn't a huge pet-peeve... because I can't do it! I mean we have spell check, right!?!? Anyways, I have to embrace the fact that I cannot spell, it is who I am. Take it or leave it! Just know, when you read my blog you will find spelling errors. At least I am real. Can I get an AMEN!!!! Hey, have fun with my blog... see if you can find the spelling errors in each one (I bet there will be some driving you crazy) meanwhile the author embraces her faults.
4. I don't care what other people think of me (see #3). I have struggled with this for a LONG time. I used to care WAY to much about what others thought about me. Recently I have had the apiphony, who cares!!!!! I am Kelsey Marie Ross-Nelson. I am a 28 year old God-fearing woman who teaches elementary school who loves hiking, shopping, reading, and the city. I am who I am and if you don't like me then don't waste my time. Life is way, way to short. What a freeing feeling!!!
5. I am actually very easy-going. Remember that whole I have a lot of energy thing? Well, people mistake that for being high-strung (which I can be when I am stressed, we all can), but in actuality I am very easy going. I love just going with the flow. I have learned that I am in my element when someone else makes a decision.
6. I love people! I will be your best friend instantly from the second we meet. I love talking to anyone and if you give me the time of day, we will become besties! I am "real" and I wear my heart on my sleeve. I will tell you anything and trust you instantly. If you break that trust, I am o-u-t, out! I am so easy-going that you almost have to be "the-devil-himself" for me to "not like you". Basically, if you make me mad or if I would rather not talk to you, you're probably a horrible person (haha just joking...kind of). The point is, talking to people makes me happy and I love everything people have to say. I have learned that their experiences open my eyes and teach me valuable lessons!
7. I like taking pictures. I got this from my wonderful mom! I used to roll my eyes every time she held up a camera and said, "you'll thank me later". So, thanks mom, you rock! All of those pictures were so worth the eye rolls! You can tell how much I love taking pictures after reading this blog.
8. I am a foodie! I don't eat gluten at all. I also try to stay away from all processed foods. Yes, I buy my meats grass-fed only, my fruits and vegetables are all organic, and my cheese is in a block from Whole Foods.
9. I love being outdoors. Hiking and sight seeing are my favorite things to do. I would rather be outside having adventures any day.
10. Coffee is my favorite drink. I cannot function without my morning coffee. On some days, I will drink two-three mugs. Yes, I know I have an addition. Another fun fact is, I drink my coffee black. Now that you know this you may greet me with a black bold blend anytime!
There you have it, ten new, fun-facts about me! What has changed about you in the last year?
Remember to refresh yourself,
Kelsey
2. I really like red wine. I was one of those that could barely finish a glass of red wine in five hours. Now, I have refined my pallet and I love red wine. The more bitter, the better. On our trip we were taught how to taste and drink wine properly. I feel so fancy now. Like I have been admitted into a secret wine club!
3. I cannot spell. This is not new to me at all. The realization is that I don't care. I am all about correct grammar and speaking well, but spelling isn't a huge pet-peeve... because I can't do it! I mean we have spell check, right!?!? Anyways, I have to embrace the fact that I cannot spell, it is who I am. Take it or leave it! Just know, when you read my blog you will find spelling errors. At least I am real. Can I get an AMEN!!!! Hey, have fun with my blog... see if you can find the spelling errors in each one (I bet there will be some driving you crazy) meanwhile the author embraces her faults.
4. I don't care what other people think of me (see #3). I have struggled with this for a LONG time. I used to care WAY to much about what others thought about me. Recently I have had the apiphony, who cares!!!!! I am Kelsey Marie Ross-Nelson. I am a 28 year old God-fearing woman who teaches elementary school who loves hiking, shopping, reading, and the city. I am who I am and if you don't like me then don't waste my time. Life is way, way to short. What a freeing feeling!!!
6. I love people! I will be your best friend instantly from the second we meet. I love talking to anyone and if you give me the time of day, we will become besties! I am "real" and I wear my heart on my sleeve. I will tell you anything and trust you instantly. If you break that trust, I am o-u-t, out! I am so easy-going that you almost have to be "the-devil-himself" for me to "not like you". Basically, if you make me mad or if I would rather not talk to you, you're probably a horrible person (haha just joking...kind of). The point is, talking to people makes me happy and I love everything people have to say. I have learned that their experiences open my eyes and teach me valuable lessons!
7. I like taking pictures. I got this from my wonderful mom! I used to roll my eyes every time she held up a camera and said, "you'll thank me later". So, thanks mom, you rock! All of those pictures were so worth the eye rolls! You can tell how much I love taking pictures after reading this blog.
8. I am a foodie! I don't eat gluten at all. I also try to stay away from all processed foods. Yes, I buy my meats grass-fed only, my fruits and vegetables are all organic, and my cheese is in a block from Whole Foods.
9. I love being outdoors. Hiking and sight seeing are my favorite things to do. I would rather be outside having adventures any day.
10. Coffee is my favorite drink. I cannot function without my morning coffee. On some days, I will drink two-three mugs. Yes, I know I have an addition. Another fun fact is, I drink my coffee black. Now that you know this you may greet me with a black bold blend anytime!
There you have it, ten new, fun-facts about me! What has changed about you in the last year?
Remember to refresh yourself,
Kelsey
Friday, July 31, 2015
WHEN YOU HAVE 600 PLUS PICTURES!
You see, for every vacation we go on I like to make a Snapfish photo book.
Reasons:
1. They are wonderful books that hold tons of memories
2. I cannot scrapbook (ain't nobody got time for 'dat)
3. They remind me of how blessed we are to travel to different places
So, here I am making our San Francisco photo book complete with 600 photos! How does one sort through so many amazing, wonderful, important photos? Each one holds a special place in my heart, how do I choose?
1. Drink a lot of coffee, I am now on my third cup! Coffee keeps your energy up while you stare mindlessly into the computer screen.
2. Upload all 600 photos into Snapfish because they are all important! Then find a good season on Netflix because said 600 photos will take two-plus hours to load.
3. Try to pick the most flattering pictures of each person at each location.
4. Pick your top five absolute favorites from each location. Use all five!
5. Order your photo book in chronological order so when you look through your book it is like your on vacation all over again.
6. Know that you do not have to use every photo. It is ok, really it is.
7. Marvel at your new book, empty coffee mug, and watched Netflix episodes. You did it and it is oh so good!
If you have a chance to visit San Francisco I highly recommend it! My next 100 blog posts might be all about our amazing trip!
Do you make photo books after your vacations? If so, what website do you use and how do you filter photos?
Remember to refresh yourself,
Kelsey
Friday, July 24, 2015
5 Years of Marital Bliss
Things I have learned in 5 years of marriage
Marriage is a beautiful devotion between two people before God! Marriage is forever and in most cases only happens once. This one day will forever be ingrained into ones memory. I have no idea what my flowers looked like, I can’t remember the cake or what food we served. What I do remember is seeing the man of my dreams look at me for the first time with tears in his eyes. I remember being so nervous I slipped away from everyone for some quiet time with God. I remember praying for my future marriage and husband and feeling an over whelming happiness. I remember laughing as my father, my first love, walked me down the aisle. The feeling of my dad’s since of pride that his only daughter was getting married. I would not trade these precious moments for anything. They mean more to me than any photograph or gift.
As I awoke today on our five-year anniversary a since of joy and pride swept over me. Five years, half a decade! I cannot wait to spend one-hundred more half-decades with this man! As I looked over to a sleeping Jeffrey I remembered our five-years of marriage. To most five-years is simple and young (and yes, that is true), but to me our five-years of marriage are full and complex. We have grown so much as a couple before God and as a husband and wife individually before God.
I cannot speak for my husband of five-years, but I can speak for myself. Here is what I have learned:
- Never use the “D-word”. This is a nasty, not so nice word that holds empty threats and is just plain mean. I made this mistake once and I promise I will never, ever, ever use it again. We are all human and I slipped one day and used the ugly “D-word”. It was like word vomit. I hated myself for it and to make it worse, I really hurt the man I love and would never “D-word” him. So why say it if you don’t mean it.
- There will be good times and there will be bad times, but through it all you have your best friend. When you say your vows, “for better or for worse”, they are real! Jeffrey and I have been through a lot! We have moved from GA-FL-NC-SC (and who knows where else). Basically, we have moved a lot. We have loved some places and hated others. We have made amazing decisions and some not so good ones. We have struggled and cried as well as flourished and laughed. Through it all we have done it together, side by side. Jeffrey is my partner in crime, my best friend. He is the one thing that no matter where we go or what we do, he will always be there.
- Always “date” one another. Although we have been married, we always make time to each other without friends or distractions like TV or computers. We go on dates. We will go hiking, hit the beach, or go out to dinner. We make time to see each other and enjoy their company.
- Listen to each other. I am guilty of not stopping from my busy life to simply listen. I am not talking about listening to their story about what happened in the news, I am talking about really listening and hearing what they feel and think about your current situation. In life there are a TON of BIG, HUGE, LIFE-CHANGING decisions you will have to make. These are the times that you should sit and listen! Jeffrey and I have made a lot of decisions together (some great, some not so great) through it all, we listened to one another and guess what? It all worked out. Although we stressed and cried (A LOT) God was at work. Jeff and I talked and strategized and planned as a team and it worked! Always listen.
- God is number one in any marriage. Although Jeffrey is my better half, I do not idolize or worship him. Jeffrey is my partner, my equal. We are an amazing team of people under God our King. God is always first in our marriage and we always look to him for trust and answers. We seek God and ask him for abundant blessings. Jeffrey and I never looked to each other as idols. Jeffrey is not my King and I am not his Queen (this makes me laugh just typing it). Always keep your spouse as your equal. Remember they are human and will make mistakes and that is ok, love them for it!
Five great lessons out of five amazing years! I am not even going to pretend like I have it all figured out because I don't. We still have a lot to learn and a lot more growing to do and I cannot wait! Thank you Jeffrey for helping me turn into the woman I am today. I can’t image doing life with anyone else. No matter where life takes us I know I have you as my partner in crime.
Happy Anniversary!!!!
-Kelsey
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