Five Questions With Christine Caine

We are beyond excited to have Christine Caine on the blog today. We recently spoke about her book Unexpected on LSK in this post, so it is a major blessing to be featuring five questions with Christine Caine today on the blog. Christine is not just a woman of faith, but she is a woman who is fervently pursuing the life in which the Lord has called her to live as an activist, author, and international speaker. If you attended or watched IF Gathering this past February, you know what I am talking about! Her passion for spreading the Gospel and loving God with all of your heart and mind is truly inspiring. Read the Q&A below to learn more from Christine and definitely read her book!

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-Your newest book, Unexpected, has spoken to our to hearts so deeply. What initially prompted you to write about stories of the unexpected happening in people’s lives?

When I first sat down to start writing Unexpected, it was actually headed in a very different direction. But as 2016 rolled on at the time, I saw how shaken our world was by unexpected tragedies and events. Then, the unexpected hit my own life in a whole new way. I share in the book that I stepped off of a boat where I was celebrating my 50th birthday with 150 of my closest friends to discover several missed phone calls and texts from my brother telling me my mother had passed away. That experience of feeling whiplashed by pain in a moment of such joy really defined a new direction for the book.

The result is what I would say is the most personal book I’ve written. God took me through my own wilderness season in writing the book. And because of that I think the stories are more than just stories, they’re testimonies of His steady faithfulness even in the most unexpected of circumstances.

-Your vulnerability and the vulnerability of the people you feature in Unexpected is undeniable throughout the book. What is your prayer for opening up in this way?

My prayer is that we will all become prisoners of hope. That we will develop the emotional and spiritual muscles needed to overcome fear with faith. That doesn’t mean we deny the reality of pain in our world, but it does mean that we aren’t defined by it and don’t define our lives by it.

-A chapter from your book speaks to the feeling of being in the wilderness and how God works in us during these times to prepare us for the Promised Land in our lives. If you could summarize that amazing chapter into one piece of advice for how to navigate the wilderness seasons we face, what would it be? 

When you find yourself in the wilderness, make God’s promises bigger than your disappointment and heartache. If you give up on His promises, you will give in to disillusionment, cynicism, and bitterness, and you will lose heart.

Our disappointment and heartache threaten to derail us every day. They can so easily distract us and shift our focus from God’s power at work in our lives to their destruction in our lives. What we chose to do with that disappointment and heartache will determine our destiny. Take hold of the promise that God’s power is bigger than any disappointment or heartache. And remember that the wilderness is a place to pass through, not a place to stay and set up camp.

-God is using you in such an incredible, bold, impactful way. You write in the book that you got where you are now by taking the long way and not being tempted to take a shortcut in the past- even if you might not have been where you expected to be by that time. When it comes to patience and trusting that the Lord’s steps are the right steps for us, what is your biggest piece of advice for readers? 

Put your trust in God’s plan into practice by embracing the place you are in today with passion and faithfulness. Focus more on becoming the person God designed you to be than on doing the things God designed you to do. He cares most about our hearts and souls, we should too. Remember that the long way around is where we build the muscles - mentally, emotionally, physically, and spiritually - that are required for the next step in our journey.

-You reference Scripture often in your book to support the stories that you share. Can you share with us now a passage from the Bible that you hold on closely to when facing unexpected times in life? 

One of my favorite Scriptures of all is Ephesians 3:20 which says, “Now to him who is able to do far more abundantly beyond all that we ask or think, according to the power that works within us.” Those words give me so much hope in the unexpected times because it reminds me that following God’s plan instead of my own is a grand adventure that will far exceed my dreams in the end no matter how rough and painful it may get in the middle.

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feature image via Christine Caine's Instagram // second image via IF Gathering's Instagram 

My Go-To Travel Uniform

This summer has been a summer of travel for me and Jase, and we have enjoyed it so much! You have probably noticed that on Instagram from all of the seat cleaning IG stories! Ha, but seriously though, I gotta wipe those seats down! :)Not only is traveling so fun, but it also makes coming home so sweet. With all the recent travels, I have definitely established my go-to travel uniform which makes deciding what to wear on take-off day a total breeze.For starters, this suitcase brings me such joy! It makes packing so easy and the color is super fun. I always reach for this sweatshirt, too, because it is incredibly comfy, and totally perfect paired with some black joggers...Everlane, Abercombie, and Lou & Grey all have great options. This carry-all bag makes for a great carryon on option; it is the perfect addition to a roller suitcase.Normally I travel with a hat on, but I didn't this time! A wide-brim one from Janessa Leone or a cap from Free People are typically on my travel hat rotation. You can't go wrong with a solid baseball cap, either. The finishing element is a great white sneak that is comfortable and well worn-in.What about you? What is your travel uniform?[show_shopthepost_widget id="3235492"]

Molekule Review for Allergy Relief

Has anyone else been struggling as much as Jason and I this season with allergies? Even my family in Dallas has been saying that it is the worst they have ever experienced.

We have tried everything holistic to bring relief - taking red ginseng, diffusing essential oils, keeping the windows shut - and nothing seems to be doing the trick. Until Molekule.

Molekule is a revolutionary new kind of air purifier. Instead of just trying to collect pollutants on filters, Molekule uses nanotechnology to actually destroy them at the molecular level (hooray!). Allergens, mold, bacteria, viruses and airborne chemicals are all completely eliminated, leaving nothing but clean, healthy air in your home.

Why we love it:

1) It’s aesthetically pleasing.

2) It has made a big difference in our allergies in just a week!

3) It can completely replace the air in a 600 square foot room once every hour.

This genius air filter destroys pollutants instead of just trapping them on filters where they can multiply and be released back into the air you breathe.

And the best part? They have an annual filter subscription, which ensures that you never run out of filters. Replacements are delivered to your door when you need them. It costs $129 a year, and the first year is free!

OUTFIT DETAILS:

overalls  (c/o) | top

images : felicia lasala 

[show_shopthepost_widget id="3236950"]Thank you, Molekule, for gifting me this air purifier! 

Osmosis Skincare: Clean Beauty for Scars

After my accident in 2011, it has been an ongoing process to heal the scar on my face. Fraxel lasers and filler specifically on my scar both made a significant difference, but as time goes on, and as I get more protected sun exposure (hello LA sunshine and beach obsession!), it still needs some lovin’.If you follow my social media and my blog, you know how I am a user of only toxin-free products, especially clean beauty products! Enter Osmosis. I was getting the most lovely facial by Camille Fields, and she suggested these specific products for further scar healing.I couldn’t wait to start this regimen! First, I put on the Catalyst AC-11 Level 3 DNA Repair Serum. Then I spray on the Clear Plus+ Activating Mist, and I finalize it with Rescue Epidermal Repair Serum After a week, I have noticed a significant difference in not only my scar but also my skin. It has been glowing and looks extra plump, smooth, and healthy.Osmosis products create permanent change by using clinical ingredients with a holistic, non inflammatory approach + they are completely free of toxic chemicals, SLS, phthalates, parabens, gluten, artificial colors and fragrances.Their philosophy is based on analyzing the skin and body as a whole to treat skin conditions at their source, restoring beauty and wellness.All of this to say, I couldn’t recommend this brand more to improve aging, diminish scars, and and feed the health of your skin!

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MY OUTFIT:

top | shorts (c/o)

Lo's Banana, Blueberry, Avocado Morning Smoothie Recipe

*Updated with ingredient amounts on August 20th! Hey guys! Lo here and I am sharing my blueberry, banana, avocado morning smoothie today on LSK. I make this practically every morning and it energizes me, nourishes me, and fuels me up with the best ingredients so that I can feel my best and have the best day. AKA, this smoothie is literally the BEST. :) At least I think so and I hope you do, too.Below are the ingredients I use. Instructions: throw it all in a blender. I use a few herbs and beneficial bacteria from Crucial Four that are specifically for the current needs of my body. Scroll down to read the health benefits of each. This place is a hidden gem in Dallas because it contains the most purely sourced products. I have seen MAJOR improvements in my health since shopping there.Ashwaganda: improves underactive thyroid function, relieves adrenal fatigue, combats stress and anxiety, improves depression, balances blood sugar levels, helps to fight cancer, reduces brain cell degeneration and improves memory, boosts immune function, increases stamina and endurance, helps to increase muscle strength, helps to improve sexual function and fertilityCollagen: improves health of skin and hair, reduces joint pain and degeneration, helps heal leaky gut, improves liver health, protects cardiovascular health; strengthens hair, nails, and teeth; boosts metabolism, muscle mass, and energy outputColostrum: reduces inflammation, supports a healthy gut, promotes ligament and muscle healing, strengthens immunitySchizandra Berry: lowers inflammation, supports adrenal function, improves liver function and digestive health, protects the skin, improves mental performance, helps with healthy sexual functionMucuna: Supports a healthy central & peripheral nervous system, supports the body’s ability to handle stress, supports physical balance & posture, promotes healthy motor skills & coordination, improves energy & endurance, supports the intellect, bolsters libido, revitalizes both the male and female reproductive systemsSpirulina: detoxes heavy metals, eliminates candida, helps prevent cancer, lowers blood pressure, reduces cholesterol, lowers chance of stroke, boosts energy, alleviates sinus issues, offers neuroprotection for brain disorders.Chlorella: detoxifies heavy metals, detoxifies radiation and chemotherapy, supports your immune system, promotes weight loss, gives you younger looking skin, fights cancer, lowers your blood sugar and cholesterolWe have this blender and love it. It is an investment, but so worth it if you are a daily smoothie type of person like we are. Let me know in the comments if you try this morning smoothie recipe and like it! Enjoy. xo

THE INGREDIENTS

Primal Kitchen Vanilla Collagen -2-4 tablespoons

Aloe Vera Juice -1/4 cup

Ashwaganda 1/4-1/2 teaspoon 

Black Gold Spirulina -up to 1 tablespoon

Chlorella (from Crucial Four) -up to 1 tablespoon

Mucuna (from Crucial Four) -1/4-1/2 teaspoon 

Colostrum -1 tablespoon

Schizandra Berry -1/4-1/2 teaspoon

Three Trees Almond Milk -1 cup

Bulletproof XCT oil 1 tablespoon 

Frozen blueberries -handful

Half a frozen banana

Half a frozen avocado

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My Clean Makeup Routine

I could talk about clean beauty and toxin-free products every single day! Who's with me? To catch up on all clean beauty posts, just click here and also check out @thecleanstuff on IG- it is my second Instagram account to serve as a library of all clean beauty and skincare products that I love, as are the clean stuff edits here on LSK. Today I am sharing my clean makeup routine for a simple, everyday, minimalist makeup kind of look. Enjoy!First off, I love to sit down in front of a large standup mirror where there is the best natural light. This makes for simple and successful application, as well as comfort! I always throw on this robe, too, post-shower and pre-makeup. Keep scrolling for the products that I use on makeup days! I am definitely a fan of going makeup-free some days, too. Gotta let that skin breathe :)For the eyes: ere perez brow gel, antonym cosmetics brow pencil, w3ll people mascara, and ilia shadow stickFor the face: w3ll people tinted moisturizer, rms uncover-up, vapour foundation, rms bronzer, and kosas blush/highlight duoI am so passionate about clean makeup as you know...putting pure ingredients on my face gives me such peace of mind throughout the day. Keeping my makeup routine simple brings me joy as well- quality over quantity! I also like the natural look, so keeping the products minimal and the ingredients pure helps with that.What about you guys? Would love to hear your beauty routine in a comment below + share with us any of your go-to clean products! xo

5 Nordstrom Buys To Invest In Now

Hey friends! Sharing five Nordstrom buys to invest in now, during the sale! I have and am so happy that I did, so naturally I had to share! Get the deets and inspo below.

good denim- this sale offers a great time to invest in a good pair of denim. These are so comfortable, flattering, and are a closet staple. Other good ones: these / these / these

ankle booties- these are so comfy and are those go-to boots for fall/winter. I bought similar boots last season, and they are already worn out because I worn them so much, so I was so happy to see similar ones and purchased them ASAP! Loving this pair, too.

forever luggage- luggage can be so pricey, so this sale provides the perfect opportunity to invest in a good quality suitcase.

trucker jacket- I have this same jacket in a blue denim color and wore it so much last season, so adding this gray color made me so thrilled. Levi’s is one of my all time favorite brands + it’s affordable and so classic.

cape poncho- my winter splurge! I love this cape sweater so much, and it is extra cute on!

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Wellness Notes | Part 2

Hey guys! As you know, I am so passionate about all things health and wellness and a BIG part of that is our diets. Feeling our best has a lot to do with what we feed and fuel our bodies with, so I am very particular about what I eat and drink!

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See below for a few notes about my personal eating habits. Also, we are excited to say that more recipes will be coming to LSK + to your inbox soon as we start exclusive content for email subscribers...coming soon! For now, check out this wellness notes post- part 1!

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I make a smoothie every morning filled with avocado, herbs, collagen, MCT oil, clean almond milk, and blueberries. It is so delicious! Before that though, I make fresh celery juice, per Dr. Cole's recommendation for gut health.

Details on both to come soon!

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My diet is filled with Kombucha for gut health and extra energy during the day. I love to snack on seasnax, Dang coconut chips (the sea salt ones), tiger nuts, and the lime Siete chips.

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When I am eating out, I lean towards wild fish cooked in healthy fats, grass fed and finished meat, and I avoid dairy, grains, sugar and gluten. Sometimes, I enjoy my cheat meal though with a glass of wine! 

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What about you guys?? I would love to hear your tips and tricks for feeling your best! xo

Lo's #NSale List

It's that time of year! Nordstrom's Anniversary sale is happening now for card members then opens up on the 20th for all. Below is my list of picks...things I am loving from the sale! This includes items that I have already bought, are in my cart, that I'm eyeing, considering, or totally drooling over. It's a long list...enjoy! xx Lo

project social teeequipment dusterphilip lim sweatertrouve blazercurrent elliott jeansrails teelevis jeansvince sweateralala crop sweashirtalala pantszella pantsalala jacketrag & bone denimnike sweatshirtnike sweatpantsnike sneaksmarc fisher bootiesleith finn sock bootiesadidas sweatshirtalo faux fur jacketframe denimray-ban polarized sunniesbp. plaid ponchotreasure & bond capeag denimSHOP THE IMAGES BELOW:

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