Merry Christmas from the Butson's

driftwoodvisual.com on the pacific coast

             Every Christmas season presents us with an appropriate reason to thank all of our wonderful friends and family that have been so gracious and loving throughout the year. Kate and I want to let you know how blessed we are to have you in our lives! Thank you for your support, your encouragement, and your prayers.

As we conclude 2011, we recall what a year it has been. As many of you know, in the middle of the year, Bell Shoals Baptist Church presented me with an opportunity to be mentored and serve as the pastoral intern for a year. Though this wasn’t really even on our radar a year ago, Kate and I both knew this was of the Lord. Prior to the move back to Tampa, Katie and I were finally getting rooted in our lives in North Carolina. Katie worked many different jobs all across the Triangle and by the end of our stay found an incredible job just five minutes away from our home. During my time of schooling, Katie has been such an amazing partner in ministry and provider for our home. While in school, I had the great privilege to serve as the youth pastor of Antioch Baptist Church in Chapel Hill. In this position, I had the opportunity to see many people come to know the Lord as Savior and follow through in believer’s baptism. Though we missed family and friends back home, our time in Raleigh was an incredibly sweet time for spiritual and marital growth, and nothing can really beat a spring season in Raleigh!

In August, we began a new chapter of our lives, in a new home, back in Brandon, Florida. Since moving, we have been able to reconnect with so many great friends and family. We are known around these parts as “Uncle Dee-Dee” and “Aunt Kee-Kee” by our joyful twin nephews. Though we have yet to change any poopie diapers, we are enjoying our new roles in the family. Katie is a stylist at Studio 3 Salon  with a great group of women, who she adores.  She has the honor of serving with the Lion’s Club as the Festival Liaison for the Strawberry Queen Scholarship Pageant. She is definitely soaking up her time in Plant City with friends and family for as long as the Lord would have us here.

Beyond June of next year, I will have completed the Masters in Divinity from Southeastern Baptist Theological seminary and my one year pastoral internship. From that point, we are again open to what the Lord would have us do. Though starting a church is a fire burning within our hearts, we are  open to anything the Lord has for us! We know that we will be cherishing our Christmas here with family and friends. This season, we pray that Christ’s love would become abundantly clear to you and that it would spur you on to fulfill His work! Everything I mentioned about what we have been able to do this year is in light of such a good God that we serve and the great people that have supported us along the way. Each of you has had a profound influence in our testimony and we are very thankful for you!

Continued Blessings this Christmas Season,

Daniel and Katie

Please Help My Unbelief

I suppose airing out your day to day struggles might, at times, be frowned upon by society. We put up walls, pretend to be perfect, and create an illusion that even though we know life isn't perfect, our life is pretty close to it. But, hey, since when have I ever made a decision because it might be "frowned" upon? No more walls. No more pretending. I don't serve society, I serve God. I remember my youth pastor's wife telling me when I was 13 to never feel alone. Not only has God prepared every step for you, but He is walking with you, and there is another believer out in the world who is feeling or has felt the same thing....You are not alone.

Most days I would say I find joy in the small things. My favorite song on the radio, a reminder of God's love, my husband's sweet voice bellowing through the house as I walk in the door. My "most days" have been pretty hard to find lately. The darkness sets in and the enemy some how finds a way to sit on the throne in my head. I don't battle addictions to alcohol or drugs, or shopping (well, maybe the shopping sometimes ;) My battles are fought completely in my own head. Some times they are self created, some times I succumb to the attack of the enemy, and some times I am just too tired to fight back. Most of these battles remind me of a song loop, never ending and repetitive. Self-defeat, unbelief, and the mere thought that being me is simply just not enough. I have moments when I am not sure....not sure about anything. All of this coming from a girl who had a 20 year plan at the age of 5. And all of this coming from a girl married to a pastor, the guilt that I feel is sometimes simply unbearable. How do I minister to others, to my high school girls, how can God use someone who is constantly battling a lack of faith in her own life. How can He use someone who quite simply feels as if she has nothing left to give. How can He use me and why would He want to?

Moving here, to Raleigh, has been the best thing I have ever experienced. It has been the hardest, please don't get me wrong. But I have been pushed out of my comfort zone time and time again and forced to rely on God, myself, and my husband...because that really is all that I have. I've taken my self-worth and rested it on the shoulders of a job, a degree, a paycheck, a title, a status...only to find myself right back at square one. When will I learn? God has been trying to teach me the same lesson for four years, and how many times will He try and how many times will it take for me to finally have an "Ah-Ha" moment? I have voluntarily placed myself on a merry-go-round all the while knowing how I can get off of it, but choosing not to. I know the Sunday School answers, I know what the Bible says, heck, I even know what I would say to a gal in my own position. But when the tables are turned, when will I know, and really know, that my identity is found in Christ. My worth is found in Christ. My tomorrows belong to Him. Every tear I have cried or will ever cry has passed through His hands. Every heartache, every joy, every blessing, every sorrow has and will pass through His hands. How long must I wait? And in the midst of the chaos in my head, God gently whispers to me that it is not a matter of waiting. I am not waiting on Him. He is waiting on me, to fully surrender; my plans, my pride, my life, my everything. To realize that I was never meant to do this on my own. He has been eagerly waiting for me to cry out His name, to put my foolish pride away and to see who I am in light of the Cross, not in light of this world.

Let me hear of your unfailing love each morning, for I am trusting you. Show me where to walk, for I give myself to you.  Ps. 143:8 (NLT)

Angel

Ms. Dana,

If you read this, I hope you don't mind that I posted this picture. It has been on my phone for a couple of years now. That smile still inspires and touches lives. 

She is forever loved. And so are you. 

Weddings. Weddings. and MORE Weddings.

Love Weddings. Love Brides.

Inspired.....

Well Elizabeth (check her blog out)....I am jumping on the 30for30 Challenge...you totally inspired me with all of your fabulous remixes. So, 30 pieces from my wardrobe, 30 different outfits, 30 days of only shopping my closet. LOVE. IT.

I always feel a little strange blogging...I certainly don't think that anyone needs (or wants for that matter!) to know what I do every second of everyday and just how many pieces of Hershey's dark chocolate I have consumed in a 24 hour period...if you read this, bless your soul. If it brings the slightest bit of joy to you...even better. Some of you I know and I pray for your often, for those of you I don't know, I pray for you too; That God's love would be so present in your life and that as the world fails us daily, He is unfailing. His love is unfailing.

I got off topic...story of my life. 30for30...here we go! The original 30for30 gal....check her out. My blog hero...okay my second blog hero. Ms. Ruth (the beautiful life) you are my first ;)

love.love.love.

Hunter Green....the new fall make-up color. DO or DON'T?

Favorite Fall Fashions:

 Hunter Green Eye Make-Up.

We've gone from the smokey eye, to the chocolate smokey eye, onto the green smokey eye. All the same rules apply....make your eyes the focal point of your face. Keep lips and cheeks to neutrals tones to keep away what my Mom so affectionately calls the "Jezebel" mistake ;) Less is more....Less is more. 

I am not her biggest fan, however, she always gets it right with her make-up.

Just a side note...if you notice in the left hand corner of this picture the powder underneath the models eye...that is an AWESOME technique to use with smokey eyes or when you are using a lot of color. Take loose powder, use your index and middle finger to pack the powder underneath your eye from the inside working out. This will serve as a little buffer area to catch any shadow particles that fall during application. When you have completed your eyes...take a large powder brush and dust off in an outward motion. LOVE.

Boots. Boots. Boots.

I am in love. And the best part is that they are all under $50 and available at target. The rain boots come in a rainbow of colors...I fancy the Navy Blue ;)

Olivia Harsham....you would be so proud. I am finally a lover of all things Anthropologie. I am building my version of Anthropologie through the creations of Target and Forever 21...so fun. 

and...

I promised I would never jump on this bandwagon. I am a wide-leg-sailor-style kinda pant girl. Well, I lied to myself. I bought my first pair and I have just about warn them out after three weeks. I am certain my co-workers think I only own one pair of pants. They are so versatile. Heels, Flats, Flowy Tops, Sweaters, Belted Button-Downs, dressy, casual....they are a mainstay in my wardrobe now...I've crossed over to the dark side of the denim world.

Lastly...My favorite Fall DO

A Girls Night Out...

These are some of my favorite gals....a few are missing. It was so wonderful to have some of my favorite women in one room. I was tickled pink (as my Nana used to say). 

If you haven't been to Sundown Southern Eatery in Winter Haven you are missing out! 

Love. Always.

Hem Gems

Wow...these are rocking my world! I totally wish I would've thought of this...but I adore these gals for creating such a wonderful product!

I have short legs....ask my brother...it has been his joy in life to remind me of how long and lean his are...and how mine...well...are not! He got the Jimison height, I got the Sharer build....which I am quite content and very happy with ;)

If you are like me, you have to have multiple pair of your favorite denim...one for heels, one for flats, and one for those in between fabulous shoes that you absolutely had to have that do not fall in the high-heel category or the flats category. 

Check out hemgems.com

1 set of 8 will allow you to instantly hem your favorite denim in no time....and its not permanent!!! Ya!

fabulous birthday wrapping. bridal hair. deeper still. my guy. deb knoske photography. the thought of one day picking up our little boy from africa. grace. mercy. forgiveness. all which i do not deserve. 

yet HE freely gives. vintage pink bikes. ballet flats. mirrored side tables. strawberry salad. downtown life. gaspari tissues. converse. toms. dinner time at home. with my guy. simplicity. bare mondays. diet coke. did i mention diet coke. fred's breakfast with my bro. dreaming. learning to live. everyday. 

Bliss

Lost footage of the past year...I can't believe we are well into the summer. 

Where has the time gone? 

Ok. Cliche. I know. 

Random moments of the past six months...all equally fabulous moments. 

Carry, David, and Deb...I am ready for our 5 year Vegas anniversary ;)

A New Spin on Foundation Brushes

Friday's MakeUp Fix

LOVE LOVE LOVE this! The craze right now is the airbrush make-up look and system...if you've stepped foot in a Sephora in the last three weeks you can't miss the HUGE kiosk front and center promoting their $200 airbrush make-up system...now I am not knocking it...I haven't even tried it...but...I can think of a better way to spend $200...maybe the fabulous Frye Vintage Billy Cowboy boots I have been eyeing for a year now ;) To each her own!



Well....we just switched over to mirabella make-up here at the salon. The thing I love most about this line is the educational support we receive from it. We had a class a few weeks back and his first suggestion was to put on foundation with a powder brush...I must say I was a little proud of myself...I use this technique and people always look at me like I am an alien when I talk about it...I am not alone!

You will fall in love...I promise...Choose a liquid foundation, one with at least SPF15. You will only need a small amount. Most come in a bottle with a pump...1 pump will do ya! Dab your brush in the product and make a circular motion around your face...I start in the middle and work outward...but make-up is all about taking techniques and finding what works best for you...just give it a shot! Swirl away!

love.

Tampa Bay Tan...you WERE my friend!

Everyone knows this snow white girl can't tan for a darn thing! Seriously...I have a complex. Anyways, I went home to Plant City a couple of weeks ago. A few of my friends have discovered the most amazing spray tan...ever....my Mom and brother are regulars and swear by this prodcut! Ha! So I went. I tanned. I fell in love. Two weeks later the newness has worn off and I have fallen out of love...lets just say I look like a leopard met a tiger and had a baby...stripes and spots...thats me. My feet look deformed at first glance...I am serious. Daniel just thinks it is the most hilarious thing...this coming from the man with Cuban blood running through his veins.

I like to think I am an expert in sunless tanning. Its been my BFF for over ten years now. I am not sure about this product anymore. My Mom and bro have had awesome success with it. But they have a pretty dark base color. So for now it looks like I will have to learn to be comfortable in my own skin...spots and all.

My remedy for banishing the spots and stripes:

Tub Soak- soak in a warm tub with Baby Oil and add a little baking soda...this will help to loosen the tan

Scrub- Exfoliate! Baby Oil will work wonders. Apply it to your skin and allow it to sit for several minutes. Then take a wash cloth soaked in Baby Oil and GENTLY scrub. If this is not effective use equal parts Baby Oil to Baking Soda to make a paste and apply directly to the skin.

For stubborn areas try using lemon juice...the citric acid is a natural exfoliant.

Back to the old faithful airbrush...works every time ;)

In My Beauty Bag this week......

Eyeshadow on your lower lids...ever tried it?

I know what you might be thinking. Eyeshadow goes on your upper eyelid. Lets rock the make-up bag a bit and make all of our products work for us. There are two ways you could do this...eyeshadow as your eyeliner or eyeshadow over your eyeliner.

1.If you decide to use eyeshadow as your eyeliner choose a color combo that suits your coloring and use the darkest shade it has. Use a small-headed shadow brush at the base of your lower lid and swoop from the corner of your eye inward. This is such a fabulous alternative to pencil or liquid liner which can make your eyes look smaller and closed.

2. In addition to using liner, layer an eyeshadow on top for a kohl-rimmed smudged effect definitely gives you that one-two punch and its completely fool proof. "Rough" line your eyes...don't be obsessed with a perfect line...we will buff it out with a brush and shadow. With a small-headed shadow brush or a smudge applicator brush begin at the outer corner and work your way inward. The concentration of color should always be wherever you want to emphasize. In this case, starting on the outer corner and working in will help your eyes to appear larger and open even though you are lining your complete lid.

Finish with a lighter shimmer on the inner corner of your eyes to really open them up...kind of channeling Bambi with big doe eyes...that's the point ;)

My favorites....

MAC Eyeliner in "Teddy"

Physicians Formula Baked Wet/Dry Shadow

I go for the coffee version of the smoky eye...its a little more on the natural side.

Happy Thursday!

Mama Dips....

Paula Deen has to have a sister in Chapel Hill by the name of Mama Dip. I must say, she gives Fred's Farmer's Market a run for their money if there ever was such a thing. I thoroughly enjoyed my vegetable plate that a vegetarian would dare not touch...vegetables aren't vegetables unless cooked with bacon right?? Daniel raved over the chicken and gravy and mac n'cheese. I think it might be our new favorite spot. Afterwards of course I came home to try to redeem myself for the "home cooking" we had partaken in and looked up a plethora of organic/healthy/low-fat recipes to put on the menu for the week....

I am soooo obsessed with weelicious.com....pop over and check her out. Now, some of her recipes cater to, say, the infant and three year old in your life ;) However, a lot of her stuff is absolutely fabulous....the Balsamic Chicken, lime and maple syrup sweet potatoes, and skirt steak fajitas. Easy to make, healthy, and absolutely delicious....I think my fitness geek brother would approve ;) You can even add recipes to your online Recipe Box, I love when people make it so easy!

Adding to my beauty bag tomorrow....I am so excited ;)

Worn out...yet my hope is in your Word

The Hebrew letter Kaf (or Kaph)

Psalm 119

The literal meaning of the letter Kaf is "palm." I love this....the palm is the place in the body where potential is actualized. Think of all the work you do with your hands each day. From the moment you wake up, to second you drift off to sleep, our hands are constantly in motion or they are idle. Momma always said, "Idle hands are the devil's handy work." It is so true...and FYI...that's a country song, just in case you were wondering ;). Today I started to think about all that my hands do and don't do. The work that they set out to accomplish each day, is it work to better the Kingdom or is it just busy work? Do I wake up each morning focused on today's work? Or, do I wake up and miss out on today's work because I am too busy focusing on tomorrow's? For me its the latter. I often get too concerned with what God is going to do tomorrow or the next day or next year that I miss out on what He is doing today. There is definitely a balance of living for today and preparing for where God is sending us tomorrow, however, that balance is sometimes hard to find. Each day, my prayer is that I will seek to serve the least of these, to love the unlovely, to be obedient and faithful even when I am physically exhausted, to surrender these hands that I have to the Father to use as He may choose. Regardless of how our society measures success, we must hold onto and treasure the simple truth that we are here to be His hands and feet and in His eyes that is true success.

On the other "hand" of Kaf........Kaf is also the root of the word kipah. In English kipah translates into cap. Therefore, it is said "You have placed your Palm over me," meaning God's hand is over your head. I like to view His palm as an umbrella. When you are walking in the rain with an umbrella you are protected from the effects of weather around you. Now, using an umbrella implies an action, a choice, and choosing to follow God is the same. We must actively seek Him and the more we seek Him, the more we find Him....I love that. Picture it.....the maker of the Universe, the One who created the oceans and skies, the mountains and desserts, every creature and human being...He has His palm over your life. I love to visualize that....it takes me back to Sunday School as a 5 year old and singing "He's Got the Whole World In His Hands", except this time, His hand is over you, like an umbrella, shielding, guiding, and protecting. What an amazing God we serve that He would care enough to shield and protect the least of these... the filthy, the dirty, the weak. Someone just like me.

Its Summer Time!!!! (okay...Spring...but we are getting close!)

Spring time in North Carolina is breathtaking. The blossoming trees, green shrubbery, and "pleasantville" temperature all make for an incredible picture perfect movie scene. It is honestly my favorite time of year...even in Florida ;) It is also the window in which I can see summer....my MOST favorite time of year. The amount of make-up lessens, bright nail polish comes out and everyone's relaxed vibe takes me right back to a Kenny Chesney song...there is nothing like it!

In my MakeUp bag....

I have racked up on a few of my favorite items this past week. For a gal on a budget I've learned whats important and whats not ;) I am as white as a ghost so sunless tanner is the most important thing when it comes to wearing fun summer dresses and tank tops. This chick burns like there is no tomorrow.

Tan Towels are AMAZING! Use in circular motion and concentrate on even coverage and you will have NO STREAKS! The color is fab and never orange. If you want to be darker you simply use a towel a day until you have reached your desired tone. Be sure to gently exfoliate skin before hand. I use just one to preserve and only cover the major areas; arms, shoulders, decolletage, and legs. It makes your product last longer therefore getting more bang for you buck! Stay away from DOVE products while using sunless tanner. They contain mineral oil and other ingredients that eat away at the DHA found in sunless tanners that actually provides the change in pigment. Wash your hands right after and you are good to go! No standing around waiting for it to dry...you are ready in less than 3 minutes!

Right now...my favorite mascara. I love the black-brown tone and it layers so well. Swivel the brush at the base of your lashes and work through with the same movement as you coat the entire lash. Do your next eye and then return to your first eye and repeat. Two coats provides amazing volume without looking spiderish...so wonderful! Even if I don't wear make-up for the day I never leave the house without mascara. L'Oreal sells most of their mascaras in packs of two...perfect for keeping one in your purse or carry all.

OPI D.C. Cherry Blossom...so not a new color...but my go to right now. It is perfectly fuchsia. Cherry-Pink that is politically correct...not that I am too concerned with being p.c. these days ;) It doesn't turn coral and has no hint of red. I call it Betsey Johnson Pink....I swear she should have her own line of OPI colors...it would be AMAZING! Just a trick I learned from my sister-in-law's manicurist...Apply a base coat and a top coat before you apply your nail color. It helps to prevent chipping. Apply 2 coats and follow again with your top coat. I am not sure exactly why it works so well, but girl it works!

Cool=Coral

Add a little freshness to your make-up palette. Coral is the color! If you are fair skinned stick with a sheer, light coral for your lips and cheeks. If you are medium toned- coral with a pink base will suit you the best. If you have a dark complexion, bright coral will make your features pop. Remember, less is more!

Summer is just around the corner, the bronzer is back! You can break it out! Use a large powder brush and create a C shape from your cheek bone to the outer corner of your brow line. Just a light dusting is perfect to work it back into your spring make-up wardrobe. Add a coat of mascara and a little lip-gloss and call it a day!

You are beautiful, make-up or not! You are loved and prayed for!

Kisses.

KB

Spring Time....thank you LORD!

Its spring. Thats all I can say. The two sweetest words I have ever heard from the weather dude's mouth. I am certainly a huge fan of all the spring fashions and have a deep love for flowy dresses, cardigans, and adorable flats. Its also a great time to get rid of your old make-up and products and start fresh. There is nothing like swooping on a fresh new wand of mascara ;) and cleaning those make-up brushes you've used alllll winter....ooops!

In my make-up bag this week....

Glides on. Looks great in pictures (I actually used it for MJ's wedding), and for all of you sensitive skin gals (thats me) it is oil free! Yay!! Apply it with a sponge or a foundation brush for more coverage. Avoid using your fingers to apply foundation please ;) Set it with CoverGirl Mineral Veil...which has been my go to product the last few weeks. Love these...they are soooo budget friendly!!

To clean make-up brushes...which by the way should be done a couple of times a week not every season...I'm preaching to the choir on this one. I figure if I only use them on myself whats the harm?? They're my germs. Wrong! The oil and make-up build up can cause breakouts and effect the way your make-up glides on the skin.

To clean your make-up brushes....

Use warm water and a mild anti-bacterial soap. Cup your hand under the running water and swirl your brush into the water and soap mixture. Repeat until the run-off is clear. Rinse and air-dry. A decent set of make-up brushes should last you if you take proper care of them.

Happy Spring!

From Paul Mitchell to Aveda...

Well...its no secret. I am officially property of Aveda now. I say this with a joyful spirit and maybe a little apprehension. After four years of living and breathing Paul Mitchell, from their color line to products to customer culture...I have gone to the world of pure plant based products and red pigment derived from Uruku instead of boiled beetles. Happy...yes! Crazy??? Maybe slightly. I started two weeks ago as an Aveda Institute Instructor. I will intern for license purposes and after meeting North Carolina's requirements I will be on my own!

I am still a lover of all products. You know that show about hoarders??? The one where people who are beyond being pack rats turn their lives and homes over to a professional organizer and a therapist? Okay...I don't hoard big stuff. I hoard products. If its on the market I've tried it or I've got a friend trying it. If I don't like it, I wait a week and give it one more chance before it gets chucked. I've tried so many products over the years that I have lost track. I will not, must not, forget any longer...and for the hair challenged of the world, this blog is for you ;)

In my Hair Bag this week.....

Paul Mitchell Worked Up Working Hair Spray

Love.Love.Love. Never too heavy. Great for creating curls with your flat iron. Fabulous for a messy up do. Makes your hair pliable yet gives you light hold without being sticky or freezing. Your hair still moves when you walk...an absolute must. Personally, I wear my hair up all of the time. Messy french twists, side chignons, wanna be Audry Hepburn style complete with the "bump." If my hair is clean, its too silky and won't do a darn thing. I am a dirty hair gal ;) If I've got clean hair Worked Up makes my hair dreams come true!

Big Sexy Hair- Back Comb in a Bottle

Want the bump without the "bump-it"? Avoid the Snooky look and let the bottle do the work for you. Big Hair is in if done right. Remember you aren't on a runway you're in reality, so unless you are playing dress up with your five year old, less is more. A little bit of Big Sexy Hair in the crown area is just enough to take your flat lifeless locks to voluptuous diva. Great for a night out with your sweet man.

Flower Bobby Pins from Forever 21

I don't know what I did before these!?! I have them in every color. I love that they add personality and a "vintage-esq" feel to any outfit. Put them in your up do. Use them to hold your bangs back. Attach them to your pony-tail holder. On the light side of your part, pin the hair back behind your ear. Quick and easy. No fuss. Just what I love. At $3 they are a fab addition to any accessory wardrobe.

June 1, 2009


For me, summer is always a time take advantage of. The extra hours, the relaxed atmosphere, the chance to vacation....its a great time to refresh my direction and goals. However, I have had an amazing first six months of marriage. A time that has pushed me into deep growth within my heart and soul. I've had to look deep inside my heart and examine how I respond in certain situations with Daniel and how to give up my pride. There is no room for pride. As much as I would like to think that I am not prideful at times, I know that I can be and have been. Personal growth is never something that I would say feels great and comfortable like your favorite jeans, but it is absolutely necessary. My dear friend Micah always says that God uses situations in your life to smooth out the rough spots, like sand paper on a rough piece of wood. He is refining us. Isn't that amazing? The Lord loves us enough to even care about the deepest parts of our being that I would even be ashamed to admit...He cares enough to not leave us that way. I know that I personally do not deserve His grace....yet His grace is always more than enough. I love the summer. I love the summer because it always brings me back to deep intimate fellowship with my Savior. I am deeply saddened and ashamed that it takes the summer to do that. My prayer is that my summer lasts forever. I suppose the fact that life slows down during the summer is partly the reason that I seek His face more often...however, my heart longs for His face. To truly be touched by His hand and share in fellowship with His children. I am sure that many feel this way, women in particular. There just are not enough hours in the day. But what am I giving my time to that is more important than Him? Why am I giving Him what is leftover, the trash one might say, over the treasure?