5 song series 

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Hello friends! Sorry to have been MIA this week; honestly life just caught up to me. I’ve been under the weather and haven’t gotten to photography my Monday post. 

Today, since I’m playing catch up, I just wanted to recap my “5 song series” so that all the post links are in one spot of you want to share! I have really loved this series and am hoping to continue it as well. For now, here is a recap of the series so far! 

5 songs for the mourning 

If you’re mourning, experiencing loss, or broken…these songs are for you. The Lord can hold us at our darkest moments and sometimes those moments are after a loss. Our world is losing life right and left…it’s a sad world, but these songs remind us that even in loss, God is there. And if we have accepted Jesus as Lord and savior, death is not the end. 

5 songs for the joyful 

God brings JOY! Our life shouldn’t be tampered with just pain and suffering…we must seek out the joy. These songs help to praise the Lord for our good days and all He has done for us. I think it’s easy for us to only seek God when we need him to fix something and we forget He deserves our praise and thankfulness at all times. I love these songs because they put my heart in the right perpective. 

5 songs for the anxious 

Anxiety is not from God and these songs can help push that fear away as we focus on God and who He is. I love these songs because they are so uplifting and such a good reminder for our minds. 

5 songs for the weary 

We all get weary. These songs are to pick you up when you’re down. Once again, no matter what emotion we are feeling and no matter what we are going through God is not far away and He is always there. We are never alone. I hope if you’re weary today that these songs will inspire you today. 

5 songs for the bold 

We are called to be bold in our faith. I hope you find these songs inspiring and make you want to pray for bold moves and strength. I love these songs because they make me push myself and prepare myself to pray bold prayers. 

I pray this series has blessed you like it has me. Would you like to see more? Let me know what you’d like to see! 

My Photography Essentials 

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If you didn’t know, W&W is also my photography business! I’m still learning but have already came so far in just two years. While I’m not expert, I wanted to share my personal Photography Essentials.


There’s are just my go-tos, yours might be different! But I love seeing what others use in their business! Like I said I’m still new, so I’m slowly building up my props and gear! Feel free to tell me a few other things you think I might need!

I do newborn, maternity, fresh 48, senior, family, birth, etc. so I don’t always use the same gear but I am just going to share my base gear and essentials I use for almost all of my shoots. I will also link everything that is still available to buy in case you want to get yours as well! I hope you find this interesting, here we go! Also, ironically this isn’t sponsored by Amazon, even though most of this is from it-I just love it!

Nikon D3100 with kit lens 

I believe that this one is now discontinued because its fairly old, but it does me just fine. I currently only have the kit lens but I am looking to add another one here in a few months! I love this camera, I can work it well and I am even still learning all the things that it does.

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Neewer 32″ 5-in-1 collapsible disc reflector

This is a new purchase that I am still learning about, but it was extremely affordable and has been a huge help already. Amazon once again is my saving grace and had these for under $15. I know there are much better quality out there but for me, just learning how to use them, this was perfect. If you aren’t familiar with these, the picture is confusing. It is actually one disc with different outside coverings that you can turn inside out for other colors; perfect for travel! It is portable and collapsible and fits perfectly in my bag. It has gold, silver, translucent, white, and black-all you could need! 61xV+5KZUqL._SL1001_

Vera Bradly Campus Backpack as camera bag

This one is possibly controversial, ha! I know it isn’t a typical camera backpack but I love it. It can stay on my back so I don’t have to carry anything. I also bought some inserts so the camera would stay safe which I will mention next. It has inside pockets where I keep batteries and chargers. Honestly I bought it so on sale it was much cheaper than any of the camera bags I first saw. It also has a good outside pocket where I keep smaller props like onsies, ducks, confetti, etc.

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Camera travel protection insert

Honestly, this little bag is perfect! It can take any bag and make it into a camera bag. I sit this in the bottom of my backpack and the camera and lens fit perfectly into it. Amazon carries it for under $13 and eligible for prime. One of my favorite essentials! 91U+rEvG7NL._SL1500_

EN-EL14 travel charger

I am honestly ashamed by how many chargers I seem to lose. I will probably find about 5 if ever move houses because I seem to lose them right and left. But thanks to Amazon again, they have them really inexpensive. This is my favorite charger because it has both a plug in and a car charger adapter, perfect for if you are on the road and need to charge. But it is always good to have one at home and one in my camera bag as well. 71yZSCu3PlL._SL1500_

San Disk Memory Card 

While there are many different kinds of SD cards, I tend to buy San Disk. I had to buy them for a college class anyway and have just always liked this brand. I have never had any problems with them so far either. Right now I have a 32 and an 8 but am looking to add maybe a few 16’s just so I have enough and don’t have to constantly delete things off my 8.

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Fur rug from Ikea 

The link and picture isn’t the exact on I have but it is the closest I could find for you to get! I do a good amount of newborn and child shoots so this is so perfect! I picked it up at Ikea and it is amazing. It is a great size for little ones and mine is a light grey so goes with boy or girl! If you don’t have something like this, get ya one! I found a similar one at Hobby Lobby too.

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Three Step Ladder 

I’m honestly not sure that this is the exact same ladder as I have, but I linked it anyway. The ladder I use is my grandparents old one that they have had for years. As a 5’2 photographer, most of my clients are much taller than me; which proves for awful angles! I prefer shots from almost a little above them if its face on to provide my clients with the best angle. So in comes the ladder! Some might need only a step stool, but I prefer this on because it gives me some much needed support and a handle if I need to balance if I am doing flat-lay shots.

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I am currently looking for a newborn posing bag, so if you know anyone or place that sells them…let me know!! If you’re in Oklahoma, i’d love to be your photographer! For more info see my photography page.

What are YOUR photography essentials?? I’d love to hear!

Beauty Blogger Tag

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Happy Makeup Monday! Let’s start off our week with a fun post! Today I am doing the “Beauty Blogger Tag!” I was inspired by Christina’s Chic Corner after I read her post of this tag as well, so make sure you head to her post as well!

I honestly love tag posts! It is a fun and informal way to get to know the blogger and just answer some fun questions! I have don a few tag’s in the past, but not a beauty blogger one! So here we go:

1.) What is your natural hair color? Do you dye it yourself or go to a salon?

My natural hair color is a mid-to-dark brown color. I feel like it is right in the middle but closer to dark if I had to guess. I do dye my hair, not all the time, but when I get an itch for something different. I do both salon and at home. If it is just a plain one color, I usually do it myself to save money. But if it is a harder color, highlights, any bleaching…I go to the salon! It honestly just depends on what I want and how much money I have at the time.

2.) How often do you wash your hair?

I used to have really oil hair, but I don’t now. So I aim for two to three times a week. Sometimes more and sadly…maybe sometimes less?? My hair seems to do better when it isn’t washed every day.

3.) Will you leave the house without makeup?

Yes! While I don’t have perfect skin, there are so many times I just don’t want to bother with makeup! Especially if I’m just running to the store or something. While sometimes I may feel self-conscious about it–I still do it!

4.) How long does it take you to do your makeup?

Honestly depends on the look I am going for that day. Just a simple every day look no more than probably 15 minutes, if that. But if I am doing a bigger look or for a special occasion I take my time and could probably use up two hours! I don’t like to have to rush!

5.) Do you read the comments on your posts?

Absolutely! That’s one of the best parts of blogging is getting feedback and getting to connect with readers. I try to read and respond quickly too.

6.) What camera do you use for your photos?

Either my Nikon D3100 or even just my iPhone. I prefer my Nikon obviously but sometimes it is just too much trouble for a little photo or two.

7.) What skin type do you have?

Who knows really. Most of the time I have oily skin, but lately I have had oily cheek bones and a dry dry dry forehead! I usually air on the side of oily though, because that seems to be what I am most of the time.

8.) What is your current facial cleanser?

I am currently using the Ole Henriksen Oil Control Cleanser. But I also love the Clean and Clear foaming cleanser as well.

9.) Do you have freckles?

Not really! A few on my arms but that’s about it. I do have a few beauty marks/moles that tend to look like freckles though.

10.) What is your favorite eye-shadow color?

Yikes! That is a hard one. I love grey, so versatile. Anything shimmery. I also love a purple eye look.

11.) How often do you poke your eyes with an eyeliner pencil?

Oh, probably every day!

12.) Do you use pencil or liquid eyeliner?

Both! I usually use a pencil on the bottom and a liquid on the top. I have a hard time using a pencil on the top lashes! They’re too rough. And liquid on bottom is a nightmare.

13.) What is your favorite lipstick?

Currently YSL Rouge Volupte! They are so moisturizing and so easy to apply.  But I am also loving Lipsense too!

14.) Name a makeup crime that you hate.

Foundation that is too dark!! I have when you/my neck doesn’t match the face…but it is something every one does! It is hard to perfectly match your skin unless you test it well.

15.) Do you like drugstore makeup?

Oh yes!! I use a good amount of drugstore makeup. They have some great quality stuff!

What would your answers be?? Let me know in the comments! 

17 Things to Make You Smile

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Happy Sunday! I hope you are enjoying a great day full of Jesus and family. What do you typically do on a Sunday?

Today I wanted to brighten your spirits! We all need a reason to smile sometimes. We can all use a little happiness in our busy and often stressful lives. Sometimes we get caught up in the chaos and the problems in our lives and forget to be happy and to remember the little things. That’s why I wanted to share 17 simple and easy ways to get your smile front and center!

  1. Buy yourself a new lipstick- A new lipstick always brightens my day and brings a smile to my face. How about you?
  2. Take a moment and read a chapter of the Bible- I suggest any of the Psalms, Exodus 14, or a chapter in Matthew.
  3. Stop and look at the flowers…literally- Sometimes even a glance at something beautiful like flowers can cause a smile on a hard day.
  4. Write a kind note to someone else- Remember that we aren’t the only ones that have hard days. So to cause a smile, try giving someone else some kindness!
  5. Take a walk and see Gods creation- When life is stressful, go for a walk and take a look around at God’s brilliant and beautiful creation. It always makes me smile.
  6. Have a Netflix marathon of your favorite funny movie or show- There is nothing in life that a Psych marathon or a few episodes of Everybody Loves Raymond can’t fix. Grab a snack, a blanket, and a crack a smile while laughing and enjoying your favorite show.
  7. Buy yourself a new outfit- Sometimes we need to spoil ourselves, so when life is tough go buy a new outfit and smile—show the world you’re in control.
  8. Pay it forward- Buy someone’s coffee or lunch! Spread smiles and happiness to others even when life is hard for us.
  9. Create something- If you paint—paint. If you make cards—make a card. If you write—write! Create something and I bet you will smile.
  10. Read a new book- For me, reading a new book (or a classic favorite) always tends to put a smile on my face.
  11. Take some time to yourself- Go get a manicure, a massage, or go have lunch on your own. Take a few moments to yourself to gather your thoughts and to relax.
  12. Have a worship service in your room- For me, nothing makes me happier than a worship session alone in my car or my room. God’s presence never fails to put life in perspective.
  13. Drink out of a fancy glass- Maybe this won’t make everyone smile, but it does me! There is nothing better than sipping tea out of a fancy wine glass.
  14. Spend time with loved ones- Show your family some love. Crack some jokes and love on each other.
  15. Talk with an accent- Some of the biggest smiles happen because my sister and I talk in fake accents while doing housework.
  16. Be intentional- Smile by being intentional. Love others, be caring, and have fun in life.
  17. Order a Venti instead- treat yourself and order a big coffee on those crazy mornings and smile because at least you have coffee!

Those are just a few ideas of things to do to make you smile. There is always something to smile about even on our darkest days. Jesus is always a reason to smile and have hope. If you don’t know about Jesus or salvation, I’d love to talk to you about it!

What are a few things that make YOU smile?? Let me know in the comments!

800, let’s celebrate! 

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I recently hit 800 followers on my Instagram account for this blog. Now, for some of you, that’s not much to celebrate. I know a lot of bloggers have thousands of followers but I’m not them…and I’m excited for this milestone!

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Gaining an audience and a following takes work and time. It isn’t an overnight thing. I’m about much more than numbers; the number of followers doesn’t mean that the blogs are necessarily impacting or successful. But sometimes it’s nice to hit a big number you have been trying to reach.

Lately I’ve been really struggling with comparing myself, especially as a blogger and creator, to other people in the same field. I work my tail off for 10 followers while other bloggers get hundreds a day. So when I hit 800…I decided I wanted to celebrate. It’s a big number for me and something I’ve worked hard for.

Bring on the balloons! Bring on the confetti!  W&W insta hit 800!! I’m also excited to announce that when I hit 1000 I’ll be doing a giveaway! A little beauty, a little makeup, a little encouragement item; you name it, it’ll be a great first giveaway!

 

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I want to encourage everyone to celebrate the small stuff! Whether its 500 followers, a shared blog post, or a kind word that someone gives you…if you own your own business or are a creator enjoy every milestone you hit. It doesn’t matter where everyone else is in their journey…celebrate each milestone YOU get too! Enjoy each step in your journey and celebrate it no matter how small.

 

 

 

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That moment when the confetti you bought was to heavy to really blow… HA!
Make sure you’re following me on Instagram! Don’t miss this celebration and the eventual giveaway! Let’s get writingsandworship to 1000 followers!

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An open letter to my future husband 

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I write you almost as much as I think of you. My prayers for you are spread through journals and documents from long ago. I’ve prayed for you every time I long for you. I pray that you’re being molded into what I need and I the same. 

I’m learning a lot about waiting. I tend to say I trust God and His timing but sometimes it’s hard to believe He hasn’t forgotten me. I never thought I would have to wait this long to meet you…then again, maybe that’s why I still am. 

I’m not perfect. I’m obsessed with Kate Spade; which you’ll probably spend most of our marriage trying to keep me from using our entire bank account to buy all this KS. I worry a lot. I get obsessed with a certain show on Netflix…just warning you that’s all we will watch when I fall in love with a show. You’ll probably be sick of my countless hours of 90s sitcoms I watch. I make a big cup of coffee and only drink half. All these things you might hate about me, but I know there will be stuff you love about me too. 

I pray that you are ready to handle me when we finally find each other. I believe that God is still equipping each of us to be exactly what the other needs and that’s why we’re still waiting. 

Are you ready to meet me? Have you prayed for me? I like to write you when I get impatient. I try to take my impatience and make it into prayer for our future. 

I can’t wait to write our vows, decorate a house, and be able to hold your hand all the time. I hope I’m enough for you. I hope that our lives won’t be perfect, they’ll be full of love. 

For the record I love peonies, all things gold, and Dr. Pepper icees. I love typewriters and famous lines from literature. I hate eggs and fish. And I’m horribly terrified of bees and wasps. I need encouragement and acts of love. I can’t wait to know all this about you. 

I hope you’re waiting for me too, and thinking of me. I believe that God is having us wait for a reason. His timing is best and I have to hold onto that. Please know I have thought of you for many years and when I finally meet you will probably be one of the best days in my life. Until then, I’m learning a lot about marriage by watching friends and trying to become the woman that you need me to be. 

Until that day my love, I’ll be here waiting and praying. XO 

Smile Brilliant Update + Results 

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I received this whitening set complimentary for testing purposes, all opinions and thoughts are my own. None of these pictures have been enhanced or edited to make results look different. 

Welcome to W&W, I hope you’re enjoying a lovely morning on this first Monday in June! Today is the much anticipated update and results from my at-home teeth whitening for sensitive teeth kit from Smile Brilliant.

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If you didn’t see my first post about these custom fitted trays and at-home whitening kit, make sure you check it out before we go any further.

First off, here is the “before” picture! I wanted you to know where I started from before I go on and tell you how amazing this stuff is! As much as I hate showing you how bad my teeth were…it’s part of the process. So I’m laying aside my embarrassment to show you the results!

*please forgive the grainy quality of this photo. I was having issues with camera. But this is not edited at all*

My tea and coffee addiction had really gotten to my teeth and honestly, I had stopped smiling with my teeth most of the time because of the state of them. But Smile Brilliant honestly changed that around! And I still have whitening and desensitizing gel to use to continue the process. Here is my results so far:

after Honestly I can tell a difference even beyond what those pictures show. I can smile again with confidence! Here are a few pictures since I have been whitening neither of which have been edited at all:

Here are some of my top tricks and thoughts of the whole experience: 

  • The desensitizing gel is key to the whole process for me. If it weren’t for that gel, I probably wouldn’t have been able to continue with the process. I even skipped it one night, just so I could tell you how it went, and I had so much sensitivity and uncomfortable feeling. So if you have sensitive teeth, make sure you get kit that caters to that.
  • Make sure you apply a thin layer. The only time I had some stinging sensation was if I applied too much whitening gel and it leaked onto my gums. My suggestion is to make sure you’re using the syringe to apply s thin layer. Don’t take off the top of the syringe! (I may or may not have done that at first…)
  • Carve out time for yourself. This can be a time consuming process…but it is so worth it! Self-care is important and vital! 
  • Stay with it! You can’t just use it once and expect it to stay white forever. Even though I saw results after the first few sessions, I am going to continue to use it for the best results. Remember this isn’t an overnight fix!

The results aren’t as shocking as I was hoping, but I can definitely tell a difference and that is what matters. I had some family reasons that kept me from devoting every day to it at first, so I am sure that is part of it-it does take time! I did notice that various lighting make the results look more obvious so I included other pictures.

I plan to keep you updated as I continue! But this is after about a month of continual use. I do admit I couldn’t do it as often as I wanted because of my sensitivity but I am still seeing amazing results!

This was my very first notice of results! 

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