Full Flames & Full Hearts

Recently, I’ve been noticing that I am really good at getting down on myself. I’m really good at pointing out the things that aren’t going right, and I let them get to me way more than I should. This past week of school was ridiculously stressful and that was all I have been able to think about. Exams drove me crazy, and all I’ve wanted to set my mind on have been the grades I may or may not have gotten.

Tonight was a much needed night. A trip with my youth group to a pig farm and a massive bonfire in Laurel Hill was a stress reliever that was warmly welcomed. I’ll be honest, though, I was not sure I really wanted to go at first… I mean, it’s a pig farm (In hindsight, probably the only real drawback was that pigs don’t exactly have the most delightful aroma…). But once we were there, I had a blast. Throwing the football, running around, laughing [and I mean a lot of laughing], and just being able to be stress-free for a night with some of my best friends was something I am SO thankful I didn’t pass up.

Through it all, I was reminded that it is so necessary to let go of the things that are currently out of your control, even when they make you anxious. I was reminded that allowing yourself to have joy rather than forcing yourself to feel stressed out is SO important. Most importantly, I was reminded that there are few things that a night of fire, laughter, chili, and a sky full of stars can’t remedy.

So next time you’re feeling like everything’s going wrong and there’s just way too much on your plate, remember that sometimes all it takes is a drive a little ways out of town and some sweet friends to ease your anxious heart.

Oh and I just can’t help but share some pics!…