+he prayed for the moon to give him light

Another round of earliness, fluffy fresh omlettes for breakfast, celebrations and accomplishments, support, strangest of dreams, feeding the ducks, distancing, rearranging, riding the gas light for miles and miles and miles, as usual my chacos and their lovely adjustable straps, snickers ice cream while finally catching up, little fresh dinners with friends' family and all the entertainment that follows, actually keeping up with a tv show, genuine time.

+i'm falling into memories of you and things we used to do

Contant energy and soreness, confidence boosting, carving out, better moods, old thoughts, staying collected, new albums, clif bars, dark brown, great harmonies, sweet friendships, dates to mark, standing still, goofy dancing, hot to cold, humming even later.

+hurry now, lay me down, and let these waters flow

Catching up via snail mail, big pots of coffee for a Sunday morning of focus, hard workouts that make me feel accomplished, waiting on dinnertime, grocery lists, hoping the world (not my world) slows down one day, long afternoons at the park, catching up on journaling, sunkissed shoulders, knees, and nose, giggling.

"I could tell you the wildest of tales, my friend the giant and traveling sails.
Tell you all the times that I failed, the years all behind me, the stories exhaled.
And I'm drying out, crying out, this isn't how I go." -yellowcard

+i don't want to call you but you're all i have to turn to

Drizzling mornings that cool everything down, funny pollen patterns on my car, big blueberry muffins and coffee with saucers, every nook and crannie, alone time, pick-up ultimate frisbee, holding my own, loving the feeling of running in a cool breeze, watching soccer games and trying to understand the rules (still), sweet cece's with a crammed-full car, needing a jacket again.

+sleep don't weep

All day slow-pacing, jeans, not feeling overwhelmed, sweet lunches outside with alicia, talking through the past and present, crazy circumstances, being held up for good reasons, comfort in sunshine, walks home and new workouts, showers after a long day, that not-able-to-stop-smiling feeling, wii and sarah and movies, energy.

+wear another shoe to comfort the soul

Ovewhelmed by kindness, kelephant!, sweet reactions that blow me away, feeling blessed, nick hornby, snacking, intentionality, twigs, crafts, trying to ask the right sorts of questions, texts from what seems like the future, evenings full of stuff we love, learning to kick correctly, funny grocery trips.

+when you would sing that song for me

Birthdays, smiley faces in text messages, condensation, days that aren't routine, days that are routine,  breaking in new sandals, extra hair things, new highlighter colors, little packages full of promise, research, east nashville and great conversations, hitting new landmarks, matching, almond flavored anything, missed and good friends, being awake.

+love is a long shot, love is a bird in hand

Bike rides that end at Bongo, jam, card writing and making, the completion of lots of little projects, projections, taking it, testing the gas light, the very very quiet, goofiness at the end of long days, compliments that help, food abundance, enjoying the ridiculous.

+when this stops, we'll be laughing, sing our songs though they're barely heard

Surprising awakeness, books you can't help but read with a british accent in your head, big ole bottles of water, appreciation, understanding the new developments, long walks, parents, mis-matched, taking out the trash, communities, analyzing data, falling asleep in the happiest place on earth.

+picking apples, making pies

New coffee beans and oats, simple mornings, thinking things through, jitteryness calmed by caring, long long walks, sunshine, attempts, new (cheap) sandals, speechless afternoons, energizing crowds, sitting by someone who can't stop making me smile, support and loyalty, encouragement, being complimented even if it is very insignificant, til 2am phone calls, comforted.

+and raised this life up from the dead

Beautiful early mornings with intention, smooth logistics, feeling content, time passing quickly, free (good) coffee, polka dots, side headbands, helping where needed, conversations that remind you of your own situation, coupons, thirst quenching smoothies, royal blue, smallness, turkey instead of beef, deep appreciation, blubbering to someone who cares, giving away.

+let's not try to figure out everything at once

Walking to my favorite coffee shop, no lulls, breakfast being the best meal of the day, keeping motivated, baking a golden brown loaf of bread that's warm and soft, double duty, lima beans, finishing a thriller novel and being happy with the way it ended, italics, racing to see one another, the poise and beauty of a dance performance, athleticism, cool evenings, fitting in even when I least expect to, being offered a coat, late sonic turned mcdonalds runs, honesty, focus.

+sometimes they're right, most times the reverse

Quick turnarounds, refamiliarizing myself with super-hydration, great great fiction, frilly shirts that make me smile, plans, the color yellow when spring is in the air, a jar full of spring-colored m&m's on my counter, how cutely sweet ceces is decorated, sprinkles, crazy reactions, perfect leftovers and time, easy evenings, reading myself to sleep.

+they're the first to come and the last to leave

Steel cut oats made with milk and left steaming to just right and yummy, the perfect day for walking to work, experiments in bread-making, yummy oatmeal cookies, running into an old friend, friends invited to dinner, clean kitchens, strawberries galore, new water bottles, sweet understanding and patience, it being april, cold apartments to sleep in, dreaming like crazy.

+and i came here to talk, i think you should knonw

Sunshine, deep breathing, mid morning coffee at Bongo, Beaman hanging, fitting well, logic logic, ease clicking, free thoughtful meals, chopsticks, biking to see my boyfriend (the ability to), pick up frisbee on soft grass, coasting, compliments, breezes, last year's shorts, sweet evenings in.

+light will guide you home

Excitement lingering, long shopping adventures, Stephen King, silly cravings, sandals, being afraid of sugar, visits, basketball in sandals, the way fresh cut grass smells, preparation, so much changing, Dad's yeast rolls leftovers, crazy deals.

+with our secret codes and plans we can't remember

Early morning runs, coffee coffee coffee, green grass and new buds and life, cooler weather after a spring rain, warm sidewalks, sundresses, planning for the coming months, family, time, clocks, closed stores for Easter, remembering the reasons, company on long car trips, basketball and interview questions.

+be strong get off at the next stop, don't worry about a thing

Waking up to coffee, beautiful new facilities, wondering about the complexities that make it run, school spirit, power eating, soft spring rain cooling off the day, catching up and explorations, beautiful designs, tone tone tone, college-mindset-budgets, gadgets, dreaming about offices, small glasses, needing genuine people, "show me a place where hope is young," finding promise.

+i cracked the ceiling i stared at it too long

Waking up smiling and giddy, painting like nail polish, simple meals, light packing, rushed for nothing, sunshine-y drives, iced coffee from mcdonalds, productivity on a lazy day, jumping hugs, flip flops and painted nails, great conversation with a lovely lady, fancy dinners out for celebrations, neat and thoughtful things, amazement, feeling lucky, if i traded (needed to) it all, progressive.

"Everyday we've got to hold on,

'cause if we hold on we could find some

new energy." -Badly Drawn Boy (again).

+and if i knew the answers, i would tell you now

Raspberry cream cheese, stickers, good leftovers, the-good-kind-of-really-sore, hugs, excitement, affirmation, jelly beans kickin' in, bowls of cereal for dinner, the amazing difference two years can make, library dvd nights, tired hugs, realizing what the future may look like, certainty and writing out the lessons learned, embracing Easter.

"Do you know what true romance is, and could you show me now? Just what would be the chances, that I could tell you how.... and could you hold me now?" -Badly Drawn Boy

+i hope you know that where you are i wish you well

Double-checking and triple-checking, dresses, new flavors of coffee, fresh cut fruit, surprise easter eggs hunts, wonderful quotes, little chocolates, new traditions, remembrance, free breakfast coupons, pushing myself, feeling strong, hot weather at last, appreciating the shade/breeze again, crazy timing, giddyness, jumping up and down, no-stress-at-all-nights, dying easter eggs with devon, cross breezes, hardly able to sleep i'm so excited.

+if this is all we got, then we gotta start thinkin'

Getting there early, checking email constantly and waiting on that one particular one, the way stepping it up feels and looks, chacooooos, needing sunglasses, the way new books smell in the book store, leafing through the beautifully crafted notebooks and journals, yummy fresh food for dinner, opening windows and turning on the fan, warm fresh smelling laundry in a big heap on the ground, chocolatey chocolate chip cookies.

+there's no one you-er than you

Being a support, plugging away at work, crazy connections, making someone smile genuinely, the sunshine flooding now, running home - literally!, lunching away, almonds, celery, good sound systems, basketball in chacos, funny story telling, hard-boiling eggs (Easter time!), asparagus, catching-up and a willingness to articulate everything, listening and helping and asking questions, oh so many more jelly beans, rearranging the apartment and making it feel all the more home-y.

+everyday we wake if it takes too long, just tell me something new

Late late morning, armies and grenades, finishing the collage and hanging it, really expressing myself, feeling humbled and protected by God, making my bed, cleaning every nook and cranny, fresh foods, sour jelly beans, smiling non-stop still, trader joes, 19 cent bananas, news, good music that gets stuck in your head for days and days.

+another pale moon, shines like high noon

Early phone calls with the parents, big ole pots of coffee two steps away from my bedroom, photography on the most ideal of days, seeing a Preview Day in all it's complexities - from the outside, pilates, staying in pajamas for the better part of a day after a fast-paced week and traveling,  nap taking to a good book, getting a homemade meal made, sunshine and shadows all over my apartment, basketball playing, playing sardines in the park, good clean fun, playing tag and it starting to rain.

+without a change our lives won't ever last

Round two, confidence, strength from my Creator, freebies, even more confirming, fun ruffles outfits, curiosity, realizing I'd be sleeping in my own bed at night, shared thank-you cards, fancy lunches, meeting a legend, students students students, packing up and doing yoga, connections in the most roundabout way, free time at the airport to reflect, full length windows, fruit stands in the middle of nowhere, the whole row to myself, at peace and calmed nerved, pink shirts, kind neighbors, being picked up by Devon, popcorn and catching up, more basketball.

+we don't need our bags and we can just leave town

Seeing 5:00 in the morning, loyal friends, the way the ground leaves as you take off and dwelling in the clouds, sunrise over the plains, it's a small world, beautiful beautiful open air and space and that sense of freedom that comes with it, easy interactions, fun vans rides, everything clicking, when missions and values align seamlessly, mascot ice breakers, magnificent housing, fitting in, ghost stories! tents!, dakota-ians, iowa-ians, easy-to-walk-in-heels, the sunshine coming out and warming up the day, sharing nibs in class, sweet text messages of encouragement and support, apples-to-apples battles, feeling like old friends already, comfort, basketball going into overtime, awesome roomates, going to sleep smiling.

+but hours past like years, i wish you were here

Feeling like Friday all day long, those long walks to work, getting everything together, great conversations, researching and forming questions, former students who are still invested, pushing through with laughter, needs fulfilled, loving engagement, mentorship, listening to others, photography in the park, new treats, perfect evenings, articulating purpose/mission/drive and feeling confident in it, trusting God to calm me down.

+that only fear, my only hope, is letting go

Birthdays remembered, efficiency engaged, countdowns, rubbermaid, celery sticks, group fitness classes, getting reports all done, simple and yummy meals, learning how behaviors are mimicked, poofy hair on little kids, changing attitudes, butterflies.

+hard times come again no more

Cold weather and how it reminds you that the sunshine is not to be taken for granted, listening and listening and listening, friends&coffee, catching up on reading, feeling like steps and strides are worth it, defeating the feelings of it never happening, mail from Italy, vacuums, unexpected free-time, waiting and waiting.

+if it doesn't matter than just turn around now

Feeling like I have a second family, fruit bowls, comfy beds, leisure mornings, helping out wherever is needed, sweet reunions that are not what I expected, throwbacks, fall colors and foods, feeling welcome, not looking at the time, pumpkin-flavored anything...even in March, siblings and siblings-in-law, detours and dad loving maps, sleeping passengers and feeling like a caretaker, the happiness in arriving at home especially when it is later than expected.

+our boats collide i feel the breeze

Make-believe, attempting to bike-ride, straight hair, documentary-dvds, baking lunch for one, feeling warm, spring dresses, going anyway regardless, running on fumes-successfully, sunglasses, old shorts, getting fancy, relaxing, make shift pinning, goofy tables, appreciating good friendships, late night driving in new cars.

+you just haven't seen my good side yet

Week ends, not packing a lunch, open afternoons, cute cupcake shops and garden sitting, pleasant days that make everything peaceful, skin, late dinners with the fan going, new creations and good books, headbands, dark rooms, clean sinks, quiet dogs.

+what in that moment when you were running so hard and fast made you stop and turn for home?

"She said, 'What on earth made you stay here when you finally figured out what I was all about?' He said, 'I always knew you'd do the right thing even though it might take some time.' She said, 'Yeah I felt that's probably what saved my life..."

Desiring wholeness, not feeling guilty, beautiful & restorative sunshine, steadiness, reaching into my identity as a new creation, relearning patterns, windows down, photography and the way details can be satisfyingly captured, the smell of freshly cut grass, invitations into a home, working out the schedule, fantastic connections, struggling with approaching, new facts that change things, half-birthdays, nectartines, candle flames, ceiling fans.

"...There is a love that never fails, there is a healing that always prevails. There is a hope that whispers a vow, a promise to stay while we're working it out. So come with your Love and wash over us."-Sara Groves

+oh Love wash over a multitude of things

Morning birds singing, Crazy Love, across the street, salsa, so much better than expected, THE survival dinner, when the world seems still and perfect, ridiculously good meals with lots of leftovers, free milk, coupons, Robots, living, dreams with old characters in them.

+true love is not the kind of thing you should turn down, don't ever turn it down

Calming due to my Christ, stress managed, one thing at a time, homecookin', germantown, deep appreciation, a beautiful world in the now and looking forward, park days, digging in, smoothies in wine glasses, packed lunches for dinner, new collages chuck full of meaning and creativity.

+when a heart breaks no it don't break even

Catching the news early, straight, cursive, fun umbrellas for drizzly days, sweet tears on a comfy couch, surprise visitors, bus stop waiting, easy play dates, 15!!, tackling stress with baby steps, outfitting ezzy, facing stark realizations, feeling impressed, floored, comforted, and shy.

+i am humbled in this city, there seems to be an endless sea of people like us

The sleeping cave, getting texts with pretty pictures like the one above, lazy sundays, bowling with style, surprise high scores, turkeys, focus, funny emails from dad, coaching, more strawberries to go with the shortcakes, stress immediately cured, watching lots of episodes as the rain drizzles outside, always always having good meals together, wind, picking up the sarah, a good hug, bangs.

+now i just want to see you smile you know how it's just been awhile

Cleaning and time and energy, health and breathing, magazines and books, fancy cooking and preparing a feast, catching up with Lauren, desiring sunshine to break through, full use of the library, soft clothing, basketball obsession (?), teal blue/green, Saturdays and the way they feel endless sometimes, lovely movies, helping with videos, beyond the level of full.

+but if i move my place in line i'll lose

The sun peaking through puffy clouds, relaxing schedule, ken-kens, npr & the new yorker and their intelligent commentary I appreciate, talking to candidates, smiles from across the table, candles in cars, catch-ups that seem easier than most, kitchen-ware, eating local and it being the best meal in a long-while, basketball post-dinner for the 4th night in a row, good old movies, night-yoga.

+no one loves me like you, no one loves me the way you do

"As I survey the ground for ants
Looking for a place to sit and read,
I'm reminded of the streets of my hometown
How they're much like this concrete that's warm beneath my feet."
-Caedmon's Call

Half-awake goodness, earlier days, appreciating focus, the re-establishment process, oh sweet yoga, looking forward to afternoons in the sun even if it's a job, breaking through the patterns already established, care-taking and learning how to teach, constant plans that make me feel alive, spaghetti, basketball games and feeling the wind in our faces, chartering a new course for us both, mud stuck to shoes, laughing at all the sports stuff, imagination. 

+and i'll be on the other side to catch you when you fall

Morning pilates in my living room, longer strides, happy thinking sorts of days, giving devon haircuts and that he even likes them, sweeping, accidentally napping, good evenings and efficiency, beyond amazing dinners, alicia's element, caring about different things, new bluegrass jams.

+nobody said it was easy

"I was just guessin' at numbers and figures,
Pulling the puzzles apart.
Questions of science, science and progress
Do not speak as loud as my heart."
-Coldplay

Bananas, the way your body feels after you stretch it out, Josh Ritter, relaxing schedule, new 'shortcut' recipes, comfy work clothes, pandora, hearing familiar voices return again, emptyness and silece of a break week, motivation, new smoothies, baking baking baking, celery sticks in peanut butter, JJ's late at night, brick walls, ecclectic design & people, sharing thoughts.

+give me a break let me make my own pattern

Driving with the sun, sleepy goodbyes, mcdonalds coffee (so cheap), scents that fill you with smiles, long afternoons in the park, chacos(!!), shorts, slow-paced, surprise visitor for errands, new movies to dive into, amazing albeit late dinners from scratch, basketball one on one, understanding and time to re-group.

+it's only a change of time

Keeping up, new formats, appreciation of generosity, sitting idian style, more interviews (!), fancy lunching, elevating moods, energy, my best friend, how the oscars feel like watching a family, the promise, lounging around, the creek, quiteness and stillness.

+i'm nowhere and you're everything

Shimmering sunrises, morningsingenerallikealways, multiple walks, big shopping trips, fresh fruit for miles, tasty cookouts, a new basketball, feeling the love once again, sit down concerts, people watching, old people dancing, glowing robots, calmness.

+maybe i don't know where they'll take me, gotta keep movin on

A packed car that's ready to be driven, packing cereal for lunch, sweet messages and notes that fill me up with smiles, peaches in grocery stores again (even if they're not exactly ripe yet), lovely friends both near and far, recovering gently, bananas, rolled down windows, open roads, the family at dinner together, eating my body weight in chips and salsa, cutting up old t-shirts for saving/future crafting, feeling safe and protected in a real house again.

"And don't apologize, for all the tears you've cried -
you've been way too strong now for all your life."
-Mat Kearney

+a bridge weak enough to walk across

Designed well, sturdiness, lunch breaks outside, unwavering love when it is needed most, wrestling, s&c's, continued realizations that people are necessary, basketball, lists, burnt crusts, cookies with thumbs up approval, cinnamon, strawberry jam, desperation, old 90's bands.

+and i don't know what it is

"A need for something, now let me break it down again

A need for something but not more medicine." -The Avett Brothers

Cheerios, firsts, enjoying meetings, being able to support someone, not drowning, blushing, craving for more than the simple, helping with 8th grade homework, animated vocab, casual clothing, scarves, trader joe's for almost anything, fresh dark roast coffee, intiative, trying to understand how to accept love, the idea of the night-time sky, wonderings as I drift into sleep.

+just the tall grass and the trees - silhouettes and crickets singing

Crepe batter ready for breakfast time, steaming hot coffee that makes any cold and rainy day feel better, management, support from unexpected places, headbands of any sort, feeling every part, organization, desiring efficiency, imprints, news, easier than I prepared myself for, fruit salad / yogurt, falling asleep on my best friend’s shoulder, fantastically driven.

+don't let the human factor fail to be a factor at all

Walking...everywhere, pleasant weather, dalmatians, new books that get you from the start, feeling like it would be a good idea to go ahead and run towards freedom, creative recipes with what's left, looking forward, ink, higher, waiting on something and it being worth it.

"If we can call them friends then we can call them on red telephones and they won't pretend that they're too busy or they're not alone. And if we can call them friends when we can call - holler at em down these hallowed halls. Just don't let the human factor fail to be a factor, at all." -Andrew Bird

+holding loose ain't letting go

A sleeping cave, allowing myself to lazily begin, more and more notes, wax and seals, witty exchanges, re-arranging again again, fantastic brunching, solitude, warm clothing, impromptu walks, genuinely proud and excited for friends' successes and progress, perfect dinners, playground-ing, frisbee-ing, feeling loved, granting joy, pushing ourselves, the balance between what is time and what is freedom.

+the fire shines as truly as the sun shines, but it does not shine so far or to as many purposes

"Let me dismiss you with an easy request of Saint Augustine: simply love yourselves. That person does not love God who does not love self. Simply love yourselves. For if you love God, you would live eternally with God, and if you desire that, and attempt it earnestly, you do truly love yourself, and not otherwise" -John Donne

Early birds, prayer-filled, re-learning, notes galore, new font types, new bbq, clean clean clean, a lengthy walk and the way fresh-air feels all over, perfect smoothie recipes, adorable dogs outside, helping out, feeling in place, busyness for a purpose, basketball and the most interesting of combinations, photography in the recording studio, new atmospheres and thoughts to think, brilliantly written sitcoms.

+make your masterpiece out of each day in me, i beg You, beg You

Walking to work while talking to mom, sunshine again, appreciating the people who fill my time, saying goodbyes in style, my heart aching for better things, being strong enough now, logic, reeling from a good evening, realizing I cannot ever repay certain things/people in life and that is normal and good, elegance, lima beans, making dinner together, adventures, good quotes, coffee, getting into weighty conversations that mean so much to me, falling asleep to the sound of the highway.

+i close my eyes and keep on swimming

The smell and look of a big pile of finished laundry, sweaters, sunlight beaming, npr, enjoying the people I work with, extra afternoon time, the way yoga stretches every part of you, snacks, connecting and lightbulbs, plans and strategies that motivate, simple dinners, making time and never being more excited, fascinating new series, trusting and letting go despite how scared I may be.

+oh chariots, if you're out there, please swing low

Staying dedicated, braided pigtails, my boyfriend's warm hat, new friends, good coffee, knowing the locals, sweet comments, grapes, keeping it creative, visits, finally connecting, adventures in crepe making, spending my evening with a cute puppy who loves everything and anything warm, relaxing, orange juice in the cold weather.

+i thought i heard somebody callin in the dark i thought i heard somebody call

Cozy mornings, understanding Lent more, dresses even when it's blustery, responsibility, the way that people open up and enjoy themselves, learning, wonderful soup, taking the afternoon to explore, running into friends, understanding relationships, free pancake night, sharing good laughs with old old friends, realizing that it's still winter!, efficiency, letter-writing.

"The great danger facing all of us is not that we shall make an absolute failure of life,
nor shall we fall into outright viciousness,
nor that we shall be terribly unhappy,
nor that we shall feel that life has no meaning at all - not these things.
The danger is that we may fail to perceive life's greatest meaning,
Fall short of its highest good,
Miss its deepest and most abiding happiness,
Be unable to tender the most needed service,
Be unconcious of life ablaze with the light of the Presence of God -
And be content to have it so.
That is the danger: that some day we may wake up and find that always we have been busy with husks and trappings of life and have really missed life itself.
For life without God, to one who has know the richness and joy of life with Him, is unthinkable, impossible.
That is what one prays one's friends may be spared - satisfaction with a life that falls short of the best, that has in it no tingle or thrill that comes from a friendship with the Father."

-Phillip Brooks (1835-1893), Sermons

+and the foundation is crumbling

Unknowns and butterflies, excitement, loving maturity, support and encouragement, new experiences and new knowledge, opportunities, feeling fortunate, realizing there's no better time, realizing time is a gift, necessities, plan ticket shopping, dinner planning, soup/salad/frinedship combos, airport runs, freshly ground coffee, fabulous conversations, ironing so Devon looks sharp tomorrow, laughing so hard it hurts, the ever so wonderful The New Yorker.

+in paris or rome but i wanna go home

Rearranging, windows wide open, the feeling and smell of fresh air and the promise of spring, nesting even more, movie catch-up, news catch-up, cooking for one, extra long walks, warm breezes, fresh produce, homemade dinners for two, dancing and feeling giddy, fire alarms, shadows, soothing lanterns, pilates and stretching, friendships when they are so consistent and loyal, preparing (procrastinating).

+well life is ever changing but i will always find a constant

Slow mornings, driving with the morning, the sun and how it makes the snow-covered land glisten and shimmer and look so alive, mild weather the further i drive, time with the Holladays, connection, love, family, keeping the slow pace, swiftly going, yummy dinners back in familiarity, sharing a lovely new taste, the way home feels so comforting.

+oh my heart like a kick drum

Early morning workout videos, reunions, wittiness, feeling unique and standing out, panels, the squirrel behind the panel, old-fallen snow, heels and posture, alum knowledge, a break, finding my way with a paper map, success, volume and magnitude, climate differences, history and tradition, melting pots, inclusive communities, feeling like a race, knowing the stakes, good good friendships that are much too easy, knowing you have a long sleep ahead of you.

+and i'm frightened of those who don't see it

A world of newness, first connections, confidence, free breakfasts, energy, faculty with charm and spunk, free things, deep breaths, not needing to know, large bus rides, seeing a brand new city, innovation, architecture, depth of conversations, research in the field, another beautiful campus, tours, insight, coffee, mittens, good phone calls.

+oh and i'm traveling light

Suitcases and hangers, tennis shoes, being privvy to new knowledge, seeing behind the scenes passion, being included, easier each time, conquering the drive, how much more snow there is per hour north, new music, winding roads, phone calls, productivity, staying safe, feeling prepared for, sleeping light.

+memento memento

Getting used to the snow everyday, fresh blueberries, deciding, new dresses, wandering, feeling responsible, corrections that make me stronger, noticing those windows each day, the power of listening, air fresheners, icicles, happiness all the time and its possibilities, napping, feeling ready, directions and suitcases, and snacks.

+there's nowhere you can be that isn't where you're meant to be...it's easy

Snow covered Nashville, adjustments, arriving safely, when an intelligent person is noticeably engaged in their thoughts, warm smiles, watching the weather from the warmth of our offices, mid-morning visits, keeping busy, being accepted, sharing it, watching progress for the better occur, being proud, new sauce!?, being treated, love love love (trumpets), a bouquet of my favorite flowers plus some, dressing up, feeling fancy, sharing a treat, enjoying company, cute notes, hospitality.

+aint no mountain high, aint no valley low

Long walks with snow falling on your face, finding new streets, picking which house i like the best, colored doors, trying something new, generosity, sweet snorton on valentine's, being cheesy all day long, preferring others, a homemade dinner made for me, goofy cards, thoughtfulness, surprises, eating too much, enjoying every minute of our time, feeling special, feeling sleepy way too early, cute movies.

+you can try to swim the sea

Oranges, mini-biscuits, laughing out loud, the way the whole house smells when you bake bread, surviving a mini-kitchen fire, feeling like 3rd graders, cheesy valentine-making, pigs in blankets, being my mom, a new adventure, the feeling at the top of the rock-wall, cute moments, being paid for, wii in general, sweet friends to share my days with.

+we could leave this town and run forever

Haircuts, chewing gum, the day girl scout cookies arrive, tuxedo strawberries, leftovers that last all week and taste better and better, cartoon characters, splurging on pizza out and still using a coupon, baking and catching up, hearing encouragement, snickerdoodles in all their cinnamon-y glory, being loyal and committed, late nights at coffee shops.

+thinkin about good things to come

Letting the way your body feels dictate your actions, time to start figuring it out, full length windows, teaching in new ways, cold pizza for a snack, long drives in the country, playing in the neighborhood, fruity water, edificatiion, sinking into bed, silent nights.

+we are so fragile, and our cracking bones make noise, and we are just breakable

Follow through daily, peaches, the sun peeking out, how sarah knows when to surprise me with coffee, rekindling, when you get a warm long hug after a very long day, just right, sinking into the pillow.

+my world crumbles when you're not near

Staying busy and feeling productive, alligators, when your favorite things are the cheapest things, crystal light in a wine glass, old staff together again, analyzing movies, how the brain tackles hurdles while you aren't thinking about them, good posture, homemade soup late at night, coziness and feeling settled.

+don't let me into this year with an empty heart

Being able to walk to work, easier than we originally thought, sudden snow storms, beautiful coverings, boots to wade through the slushy ice, late night grocery trip runs, risks, laughing and feeling free.

+we love to talk on things we don't know about

Curls, gloves, hangman, fresh air, long naps, good smelling apartments, cheering, genuine laughs, remembering this moment for a later day, where i want to be, good people, not rushing, empty roads, great big conversations that i want to have.

+give the love you find until it's gone

Baking, big breakfasts, losing, libraries, new business ideas, movie after movie, people enjoying my baking, old school board games, best friends, classy little dinners, musicals I should have watched ages ago, relaxation.

"I wanna fit in to the perfect space, feel natural and safe in a volatile place." -Avett Brothers

+silhouettes in a window frame

How your hair falls after you've had it trimmed, appreciating who you are, birthday celebrations, comfy sweaters, international postage stamps, boca burgers, rain drops, sour patch kids, three-pointers still, foosball championships, laughing hard, unplanned evenings, cupcake preparations, being crafty, cold days.

+i don't have any questions, i don't think it's gonna rain

How slow time has become, movie analyses, lunch talks, ziploc popcorn bags, monsters, feeling up to that level, getting stronger, enjoying the rain, hot soup after yoga, cuddling when there's a storm outside, fresh, chick-flicks, lots of love.

+i've been wrong but it's alright

Learning to like homemade coffee more than cafe-bought, energy, passive motivation, finding new and creative blogs, core, perfecting a recipe you've been working on, ditching the car, straws, popcorn, how we both love wandering so much, the clairty art-making can bring, thinking-movies.

"Long ways away but you're never alone /Look at the sky over our home/ I'll be around a few more miles to go..."

+we expected something, something better than before

Good music stuck in your head all day, lots of focus and feeling healthy, little visits to and from, how the sun can heal things, the time for getting better, follow-through, safe roads, how meals feel like home, rosy cheeks because of cool fresh air, intentionality, mandolins, the national.

+i'm so sorry for everything

Seeing a dear friend again, a huge cup o' coffee for morning traffic, caution, sunshine, fullness, getting the bigger picture, kid-meals, doors closing, raspberries, having an unwavering quality, not turning away, long discussions just like before, 1/4 of a cup, being able.

"Baby, we'll be fine
All we gotta do is be brave and be kind
I put on an argyle sweater and put on a smile
I don't know how to do this
I'm so sorry for everything."

+there's no place to hide but i don't think i'm scared

 

Waking up to old memories, making and finishing a list, so much coffee, neighbors, how the sun melts away worries, squeaky wheels, snow ball fighting, syd, grass for hair, carrot stick noses, being with someone who keeps me smiling, a full stomach, ongoing shows, not needing the heater, understanding from a dear friend, fuzzy socks.

+you were right about the end

Chocolate chip pancakes, feeling like it's a ghost town, feeling like the world is closed for the day, letting the weather control our actions (for once), the coziest fort ever made, harry potter, lengthy letters, bubble baths, walking with the camera, little kids especially in snow outfits, chocolate, fighting with myself, becoming wiser, feeling protected.

+walk away now and you're gonna start a war

Being proven wrong, watching the snow come down in waves, watching Belmont turn white, preparations and staying warm, the new yorker, hearty lunches, snow angels, snow fights, free hot apple cider, old favorites, sweet 80's romances, a classic, good emails from grad schools.

+do you really think you can just put it in a safe behind a painting, lock it up, and leave?

New album, how the temperature can drop in a few short hours, projects that keep me busy and interested, organization of little things, deep reflection, another go at it, making plans and lists, time spent doing and teaching photography, explanations, spontaneous ice cream adventures, coupons, made up mandolin songs, a good backrub after a week of hard workouts, new ways of being frugal, preparations.

"Looking for somewhere to stand and stay, I leaned on the wall and the wall leaned away." -The National

+and today was supposed to be not just another day

Cheerios, valuable work, endless leftovers, freshly made bread, how the sun reflects when it is at such a low angle, cool breezes, squeezing things in, getting better at checking voice mail, understanding the direction, bare trees, knowing that regrowth is about to begin, constants, feeling inventive, looking forward to it again, newness again, visits, addresses, secret doors, new boxes, a new resolve

+so let's get out of here, past the atmosphere

Breakfast creations, time to reflect, new treadmills, jogging again, small steps towards stability, the squishy mats in the beaman, staying warm in the cold, understanding acts of humility, surprise sightings, taking a nap midday, bowl of cereal dinners, a packed student section, unison, who I actually have always wanted to be with, flow, three-points, just being with, good time spent.

+you told me i'm golden

The turning of weather, endurance building, realizing needs, wanderings, leftovers having dinner made for me, new music, pop corn from the stovetop, sweatshirts and blankets, closing another day.

+livin' inbetween sunset and sunrise

Fun interactions early in the morning, that cup, simple toast, filtering, cheap produce, cooking with company, making a recipe that smells like home, sunday afternoon restfulness, having the time to paint my nails, working through it, feeling importance, the other side, editing, just sitting, reading, leaving things scattered because something else is too important, heavy blankets that always do the trick.

+she'd stay that way if it was up to me

The way a good night of sleep feels, Saturday morning cleaning that reminds me of being home, the ingeniousness of clorox wipes, smiling even when you're alone, long walks on breezy days with good friends, simple relaxation, more walks, curled hair, using the resources at hand, the power of wind, a hug for every three-pointer, being frugal, making dinner that is tastier than any meal out, celebrating birthdays, bowling adventures, my iu hoodie's warmth.

+something in my heart will not give up on you

The idea of secret hideaways, shared, calm about the big things, ability to be consistent, running into people who have changed me, well-written lyrics, reaching the end of books, a new recipe, hearing stories, analyzing life in the only way we know how, good situations, peacefulness, the chance to discuss, frustration turning into relief and deeper love.

+we're moving forward but holding ourselves back

Cooking up a breakfast as the sun rises, vibrancy, extra room, new projects, the freedom to be creative, fireplaces, carrots, routine setting in, expectant about a meeting, at ease and confident, excited about the opportunity, simple but tasty dinners, arriving early, the new yorker mixed with npr, stillness, to the game solo, yoga routines in my living room, feeling compassion and the ability to dwell in silence.

+and i'm getting closer than i ever thought i might

The calm and quiet of rainy dark mornings, raspberry smoothies, new restaurants within walking distance, respect, long mom phone calls, hearing thunder but being safe, soup and grilled cheese on a rainy day, a filled apartment, good conversation, handwritten note of thanks, dishes done, looking back, being in the now, goofy workout videos in a tiny living room, laughing hard, big long hugs, easy to bed.

+come and be everything i am and all i know

Feeling safe, packing lunches, sunshine, a new class, testing the waters, feeling healthy, flakey biscuits, sticky notes, playing frisbee in an open field, fresh air, walks, the new patio, the smell of wood, follow through, my duck/swan/goose/bird coffee mug, double-checking, unexpected snail mail, tennis shoes, joining in, meet-ings, being able to comfort, a good verse.

+a little alone but it's alright, we are always living in twilight

Sleeping with a dog at your feet, sleeping in, peeking sunshine through the clouds, finishing touches, breathing easily, the smell of fresh laundry overwhelming a room, warm clothes out of the dryer, play time, overlooking, cheaper than you thought, counting down the hours, home workout videos and in all their overdramatic glory, sweet sweet reunion, catching up, hearing what God has done and is continung to do, time together, cooking for a friend, sharing stories and sharing life, realizing we are all together on this, grocery shopping together, ease of living again, vigilance.

+keep holding on

Warmth and friendship, overcoming, Harry Potter from the beginning, a new lunch location, catching up with someone who knows me all too well, spending the day together, trash to treasures, exploration, church on my own, sinking in, understanding how God constantly walks with me, small homemade dinners, even more time to spend with a wonderful friend, necessity.

+let Your turth be on our steps and in these rooms

Not being as shaken, sleeping in, curling up with a good book a puppy and a bowl of cereal, mckay's bookstore, needing my family, learning very important lessons, community, preparing for sleepovers, bowls full of grapes, relaxing times ten, taking care, depth, slumber parties.

+You always know where to find me

Real meetings, warmer days, lots of sunshine, the glee soundtrack, playing with a cute dog, leftovers, late movies, new hangouts, laughing out loud, learning how to, clean smells, heavy blankets, routines, blue ink.

+do you love your mind if you lose control?

Cooking pre-dawn, the smell of strong coffee brewing, lunches in kitchens, genuine joyfulness, having time for long goodbyes, new strengths, three different readings, low pony-tails, library organization, afternoons cleaning up, homemade veggie soup, meeting sophie, details remembered, bustling coffee shops, day-old-cheap-cookies, reality tv with calming friends, the ability to still hang out with good, close friends.

+are you in or are you out, leave your things behind 'cause it's all goin off without you

The joy of sleeping through a night, hot rollers, leggings, sour patch kids missions, appreciation, the heat of a long walk in the cold, when you are very hungry for meals, new revelations and thankfulness, re-dwelling, complements, attractive because of maturity, girl time, precious time, a lunch box, buying the ingredients for something new, sleeping again.