Kanakuk Ashley

October Baby...

2012-02-12T08:00:00.000-06:00

Hey K2 Kanakuk Friends,
Well, after reviewing Courageous a few weeks ago, some folks contacted me about previewing October Baby that is coming out March 23, 2012. I can't wait. I just watched the Trailer and it already has me curious and excited to see this journey of a movie...

Life IS precious. EVERY life.

Be awesome & Love Jesus,

kanakuk ashley robbins
ashley@kanakuk.com

Now or Not Hiring...

2012-02-10T08:00:00.000-06:00

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Hey K2 Kanakuk Friends,
Well, I am bogged down with about 200 new staff applications on my lap. The K2 Women's Director, Trish Helsel, and I have been hiring all week. Hence the title of the post. We are now hiring but hopefully when this post goes up it will all be done...sort of.

Summer 2012 is going to be amazing...I'm praying big things already.

Be awesome & Love Jesus,

kanakuk ashley robbins
ashley@kanakuk.com

1 Mom + Daughters + NYC...

2012-02-08T08:00:00.000-06:00

Hey K2 Kanakuk Friends,
Well, if my littles were bigger we would for sure be signing the dotted line to go on this trip. Kanakuk is hosting a Mother/Daughter Retreat to New York City! Is a 2 year old too young to enjoy NYC and sit through Broadway musicals? Yeah, prob!

Here are the details. Go grab your momma (or momma go grab your girl(s))...

APRIL 19-22, 2012

(details: I actually have none but the dates but for all other actual details you can call or email Tracy at 417-266-3211 / tracy@kanakuk.com.)

Go! Sign up! It's NYC with your best friend (and if she isn't right now it's even more so the best time to go). Memories girls, memories!

Be awesome & Love Jesus,

kanakuk ashley robbins
ashley@kanakuk.com

February: The Month of Hearts...

2012-02-06T08:00:00.000-06:00

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Hey K2 Kanakuk Friends,
Well, I am sure most of you have realized it's February. Surprise! The month of Valentines, pink pink and pink, red, cards, flowers, dates, or in my case growing up as teenager between the years of 1995-1999, it meant a night of Celine Dion and begging for my 16 year old crush to be THE ONE and to arrive at my house for a surprise dance/dinner in my backyard. (very zach morris prom show or for those who don't know 90's TV, very zac efron in HSM). I never got flowers on Valentines. I never had a date, till college when a guy friend took me on a pity date. Trust me sweet girls that it's okay. You will survive. You are AWESOME.

I hated Valentines day...it's okay if you do too. It's normal. Just don't get all crazy and bitter??? Not cool.

Be awesome & Love Jesus,

kanakuk ashley robbins
ashley@kanakuk.com

He Does...

2012-02-04T08:00:00.000-06:00

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Hey K2 Kanakuk Friends,
He loves you.
He loves you.
He LOVES you.
He loves YOU.

Today I want you to hear that you are loved. No matter what the world is screaming at you. You are loved by the Creator that created you. When you live your life for Him, He loves you. When you don't maybe make great decisions and screw up, He LOVES you. His love doesn't change. His love is deeper than anything we can comprehend. When we feel at our worst, His love is still there.

Maybe all those sentences are cliches...but they are TRUE cliches. True promises. Remember them today!

Be awesome & Love Jesus,

kanakuk ashley robbins
ashley@kanakuk.com

Feel Like vs. Actually Look Like...

2012-02-02T08:00:00.000-06:00

Hey K2 Kanakuk Friends,
Well, the girls of TriAthlete will appreciate this but this little picture just CRACKS me up. I am 100% positive this is 100% true of me. Promise!

I can't look at this without laughing...

Be awesome & Love Jesus,

kanakuk ashley robbins
ashley@kanakuk.com

S'more Bars...

2012-01-31T08:00:00.000-06:00

Hey K2 Kanakuk Friends,
Well, I'm missing kamp a bit today and s'mores ALWAYS makes me think of kamp...ALWAYS! So here is a little recipe for ya...go ahead and go make 'em!

S'more Cookie Bars

1/2 cup butter, room temperature
1/4 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup sugar
1 large egg
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 1/3 cups all purpose flour
3/4 cup graham cracker crumbs (approximately 7 full graham crackers)
1 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp salt
2 super-sized (5 oz.) dark chocolate bars (e.g. Hershey’s)
1 1/2 cups marshmallow creme/fluff (not melted marshmallows)

Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease an 8-inch square baking pan.

In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light. Beat in egg and vanilla.
In a small bowl, whisk together flour, graham cracker crumbs, baking powder and salt. Add to butter mixture and mix at a low speed until combined. Divide dough in half and press half of dough into an even layer on the bottom of the prepared pan. Place chocolate bars over dough. Two 5 oz. Hershey’s bars should fit perfectly side by side, but break the chocolate (if necessary) to get it to fit in a single layer no more than 1/4 inch thick. Spread marshmallow fluff evenly over the chocolate layer.

Place remaining dough in a single layer on top of the fluff. This is most easily done by putting the second half of the dough in a gallon size freezer bag. Use your palms to flatten it out, and then use scissors to cut down both long sides of the bag, so it will open up book-style. Open it up carefully, and the dough will stick on one side of the bag. Then place the bag, dough side down, on the other three layers. From there peel the bag up ad spread the dough where it is uneven.

Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, until lightly browned. Cool completely before cutting into bars

Makes 16 cookie bars.

I'm headed to the store today to get these ingredients! I'm salivating just thinking about them!

Be awesome & Love Jesus,

kanakuk ashley robbins
ashley@kanakuk.com
(source: S'mores Bar Recipe)

Let's Go to the Beach...

2012-01-29T08:00:00.000-06:00

Hey K2 Kanakuk Friends,
Today, it's a bit cold and cold. So today I wanted to go here. What is it about a beach that just takes you away? What is it about the sound of waves that just calm my heart and make me hear the beat of my Creator more?

We must find a way to hear those waves in the chaos of our lives. To sit on our seashores and to calmly listen to Jesus. I pray I do that...every day.

Be with Jesus, even if you don't have a beach out your backdoor.

Be awesome & Love Jesus,

kanakuk ashley robbins
ashley@kanakuk.com

Read Anything Good Lately?...

2012-01-27T08:00:00.000-06:00

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Hey K2 Kanakuk Friends,
I have a dear friend who reads like she is a librarian...but a super fun, cute one. She reads ALL the time. I have realized I have stopped reading...so 2012...let's read? Mmmkay?

So what books are out there that need to be read by me?...(here is my list so far)
1. The Help
2. War Horse
3. Extremely Loud & Incredibly Close
4. Through My Eyes (Tim Tebow book)
5. One Thousand Gifts
6. The Hunger Games

Okay, thoughts...I don't know a lot about these books but have just heard good things. Thoughts?

Be awesome & Love Jesus,

kanakuk ashley robbins
ashley@kanakuk.com

Courageous...

2012-01-25T08:00:00.000-06:00

Hey K2 Kanakuk Friends,
1. slow and a bit cheesy.
2. did.NOT.see.that.coming.
3. why am i crying hysterically when 10 minutes ago i couldn't get past the cheesiness of this movie.
4. still crying and totally entrenched in the film.
5. LOVE LOVE LOVE the movie.

I am sold! I know sometimes the christian entertainment industry can be rather, well, cheesy. I am very well aware. I have liked the other Sherwood pictures they have put out and love that they are getting out to the masses and proclaiming truth. The hubs and I watched this movie a few nights ago and were in tears the last half of the movie (I was, the hubs was a bit teary eyed). I couldn't get the word RESOLVE out of my head. As the movie ended here were my thoughts:

1. Dads are so important.
2. Loving your wife is the first step to being a great dad. (after loving Jesus more than anything)
3. Dance...always dance with your spouse and kids.
4. Don't grow up on kids...meet them where they are (i.e. running, crafting, singing elmo songs for 2 hours)
5. I want our home to be filled with the authentic name and power of Jesus. I want the hubs and I to kneel before our Lord together and show our kids God's love and raise the next generation to love Jesus with all abandonment.

As the movie ended I loved that I looked at my husband and said, "I am so thankful you are already a man that is courageous and has a heart of resolve in this home." It's worth the wait girls...I promise!

Be awesome & Love Jesus,

kanakuk ashley robbins
ashley@kanakuk.com

Oh, man...

2012-01-23T15:37:00.000-06:00

Hey K2 Kanakuk Friends,
Well, it's Monday. The hubs is on the road for kamp and the littles and I are home. Sickness has been hanging out at our house for a bit and the smell of one little's throw up has been perfume for me the past week. All that to say as I kissed the hubs by today, I curled up into our bed to sleep.

There's no point to this post except to say one thing...resting is good.

Be awesome & Love Jesus,

kanakuk ashley robbins
ashley@kanakuk.com

Remember...

2012-01-19T08:00:00.000-06:00

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Hey K2 Kanakuk Friends,
Oh, how sweet the Lord was as He has been reminding me of this TRUTH. Remember His promises. Remember His character. Remember.

Be awesome & Love Jesus,

kanakuk ashley robbins
ashley@kanakuk.com

Lovely Headbands...

2012-01-17T20:48:00.004-06:00

Hey K2 Kanakuk Friends,
I think this summer I will once again be wearing a headband each day because of several reasons...
1. It means I don't really have to "fix" my mop of hair.
2. They are a bit of femininity (spelling??) when I am usually sweaty, stinky and more sweaty.

So if you want one (I am obsessed with them and love making them) head on over to

www.lovelyheadbands.blogspot.com and you will see how to order. Let your obsession begin. Whether for little girls, teens with your messy buns or moms who just need a way to hide that they maybe haven't showered in a few days...these are awesome and just $12. Steal!

Be awesome & Love Jesus,

kanakuk ashley robbins
ashley@kanakuk.com

Be Silly...

2012-01-17T08:00:00.000-06:00

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Hey K2 Kanakuk Friends,
Well, the hubs and I had a wedding reception a few weekends ago and we had such a fun dancin' night. I know to some of you that weirds you out...us old folks with 2 kids dancing like teenagers (correction: not like teenagers on MTV...the teenagers like that are silly and wacky). We danced funny, silly, twirly, goofy and every other crazy adjective! We had a blast! I had never heard half of the songs but it was so fun!

So today, I beg you to be SILLY! Go laugh like a kid while you wrestle your dad. Go twirl around in an apron as you and your mom eat whip cream out of the can. Just go be silly. Our seriousness or "grown-upness" is so boring. Go be silly...appropriately so.

Be awesome & Love Jesus,

kanakuk ashley robbins
ashley@kanakuk.com

Teenage Memory...

2012-01-15T08:00:00.000-06:00

Hey K2 Kanakuk Friends,
I'm sure all of you would NEVER be so silly, girl girly as to have THAT crush that you doodle everywhere, journal each day, and think up your own movie in your head which usually ends with the crush fighting the whole world to get to you and to tell you that you are the perfect girl and he loves you.

Anyone? No one really wanting to admit it. Okay. Well, I thought today I would think back to being a teenager. Back meaning around 15 years ago. Yep, I'm 31. So me as a 16 year old. I want to simply validate your thoughts but also speak into them...not that you will listen but maybe, just maybe you will remember 1 line that could change your decisions.

The print above is so true of life as a teenage girl. Why do you think the Twilight series is an obsession of most teenage girls? Why do you think Justin Bieber is a gazillionaire? We love to dream up this story, our very own team edward vs. team jacob and we have the whole movie in our mind about the guy in the locker next to us and he barely knows our name. Oh how I remember this.

Lesson: It's not real. The normal, great kid 16 year old boy will never have a monologue to you that is like Justin Bieber's latest hit. It's not real and I believe the Lord did this for a reason. It's not time to awaken your heart to that boy. It's time to lock down your heart to Jesus and your daddy that the Lord has put in charge of your heart till it's time to for the changing of the guard. Most likely at 16 when your dream world is in overdrive is not going to be the time. So protect your heart. Know that movies are great. Fun. Great. But not reality. Crushing on boys is fun, talking with your mom till midnight about your crush is great...but allowing it to consume your heart so that reality is blurry is not good. So hang in there and some day your doodling of a boys' name will be real. Wait for Jesus to write that in...it's the best movie ever.

Be awesome & Love Jesus,

kanakuk ashley robbins
ashley@kanakuk.com

Lord, When I'm Older...

2012-01-13T08:00:00.000-06:00

Hey K2 Kanakuk Friends,
The saying, "I'll live for the Lord when I'm older" is a statement that drives me bonkers. Now, I'm aware of my own junk and my desperate need of a Savior so no judgements here...BUT truth will be here.

Why do you say that statement? If you truly grasp salvation and the gospel then you would never wait to walk with Jesus. Ever. On Sunday our pastor knocked the hubs and I to the ground...he said we, as marriage partners, should see the gospel being lived out in each other. WOW! You don't have to be married for that to mean something...

Does your life exhibit the gospel lived out?

Be awesome & Love Jesus,

kanakuk ashley robbins
ashley@kanakuk.com

A Blank Mind is...

2012-01-11T08:00:00.000-06:00

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Hey K2 Kanakuk Friends,
Well, I'm sitting here and I am quite blank today...blogging ideas??? I can do random stuff...I can always do random stuff but I just have no awecrepic ideas rushing to my blonde brain today. (please take no offense if you are a blonde. I personally embrace blonde moments).

I am going to stay calm and just write our blog...

Be awesome & Love Jesus,

kanakuk ashley robbins
ashley@kanakuk.com

Passion 2012...

2012-01-09T08:00:00.000-06:00

Hey K2 Kanakuk Friends,
42,000 college students.
$3.1 million to stop human traffic in Nepal and more.
1 God that can awaken souls.

"Jesus has come on the scene and he has stretched out his hand to the funeral procession to awaken you to the reality that God can do anything and everything," Giglio said. "The day that happens is when you declare the power and mystery of the Gospel. That's why you're alive."

These 42,000 could radically change this nation, this world. Don't let this simply be a 4 day conference. Live it.

Be awesome & Love Jesus,

kanakuk ashley robbins
ashley@kanakuk.com

Resolutions...

2012-01-07T08:00:00.000-06:00

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Hey K2 Kanakuk Friends,
Resolutions...to do them or not to do them or to write them but not really do them? Which category do you fall into? I am in the speak of them but they are broad (like continue to balance family and "stuff"). The husband and I speak of them to each other but again, ours are broad...big picture things.

Okay, fess up...do you write them down but only last like 2 days? Admit it, c'mon, there is freedom here. haha!

Be awesome & Love Jesus,

kanakuk ashley robbins
ashley@kanakuk.com

Hey 2012...

2012-01-05T15:38:00.000-06:00

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Hey K2 Kanakuk Friends,
It feels odd to type "I'm back!" I don't really know why but it does. So let's just say "what up" instead? Mmmkay? Perf!

How was Christmas? New Years? Break? I type these questions very much knowing they are rhetorical (is that how you spell that. I don't want to do spell check today. here goes it to the masses). Our break was great. We had a very long road trip, 2 very sick little ones, great family time, lots of pj days, sweet conversations between hubs and wife about life as we are listening to "Kisses from Katie" book, and lots of sliding (little ones got a little slide) and lots of tea parties (little ones got a tea set). It was so glorious!! Family time as our little 4 (plus aunts and grandparents) is soooooo good.

I have been surrounded by medicine like I am a pharmacist...it actually made me think of my college roomie who I adore and don't ever see who is a pharmacist (that was just a random thought that I typed and I probably should delete b/c it has nothing to do with your life but I don't want to). Prayerfully the littles will get better...soon. They are so snuggly when they are all sick and snotty. YOU, grown up teenage girls, were sick and snotty at some point and your parents sat and snuggled you and your blankie and watched mickey mouse clubhouse for 3 hours straight too...memories!

Happy New Year everyone (let's all pretend it's not January 5th but January 1st). Perf!

Be awesome & Love Jesus,

kanakuk ashley robbins
ashley@kanakuk.com

Merry Christmas...

2011-12-25T08:00:00.000-06:00

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from the Robbins' family to yours!

(p.s. how stinkin' adorable is that print!!! totally heartin' it!)

Be awesome & Love Jesus,

kanakuk ashley robbins
ashley@kanakuk.com

Merry Christmas Eve...

2011-12-24T08:00:00.000-06:00

Hey K2 Kanakuk Friends,
Hope tonight has everyone nestled into their homes or churches truly having the gut check/heart check moment of knowing Jesus as their Savior. The moment when all the candles are lit and singing together I am always in awe of Him! Let us remember you EACH day!

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Be awesome & Love Jesus,

kanakuk ashley robbins
ashley@kanakuk.com

Christmas Traditions...

2011-12-22T08:00:00.000-06:00

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Hey K2 Kanakuk Friends,
Well today is all about traditions...well, not technically today but today is all about thinking about traditions that you love or hated but now love as you are older and wiser...

We Medlin's (that was the ole maiden name) and now Robbins' have GRAND traditions...okay, not really but I love them GRANDLY. We have a candle from Israel that the madre always lights and all of us kids are together (via cell phone now days) as we read Luke 2. We open 1 gift on Christmas Eve. We have our kids wear Christmas pajamas (Robbins). We always went around and each person would open 1 gift at a time so we could all admire and it wouldn't go so crazy fast!

So traditions...what are some in your family?

Be awesome & Love Jesus,

kanakuk ashley robbins
ashley@kanakuk.com

Christmas Tuney Tunes...

2011-12-21T08:00:00.000-06:00

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Hey K2 Kanakuk Friends,
Well, I know all of you are just waiting to iTunes to make a playlist of Kanakuk Ashley's hot beats! No, weird? Anyways, here it is...(Disclaimer: Christmas albums don't equate to each artist loving Jesus. Just fyi. It means I like their Christmas album and that's it. Just fillin' ya in!)

1. Love this album...fav song: Winter Snow.

2. Heart that voice!

3. Haven't heard all this album but his sisters worked at K2 so I had to put this up. loyalty!

4. Personally haven't listened to all songs but love "Have yourself a Merry little Christmas."

5. Don't be mad...I just adore the little "Under the Mistletoe" song...you either love or hate him. And if you hate him, I think you love him too.

6. From Justin to James...classic and timeless!

7. I love "Love is Christmas" and "Winter Song."

8. Timeless and smooth as the velour on Santa's pants!

9. Always phenom!

10. One can never have too many Hillsong albums.

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Oh Charlie Brown...

2011-12-20T08:00:00.000-06:00

Hey K2 Kanakuk Friends,
Well, at our Kanakuk Christmas party the boss quoted these lines from Charlie Brown's Christmas and I just loved it...read and reread again if you want!

Charlie Brown: I guess you were right, Linus. I shouldn't have picked this little tree. Everything I do turns into a disaster. I guess I really don't know what Christmas is all about.
[shouting in desperation]
Charlie Brown: Isn't there anyone who knows what Christmas is all about?
Linus Van Pelt: Sure, Charlie Brown, I can tell you what Christmas is all about.
[moves toward the center of the stage]
Linus Van Pelt: Lights, please.
[a spotlight shines on Linus]
Linus Van Pelt: "And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. And lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid. And the angel said unto them, 'Fear not: for behold, I bring unto you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the City of David a Savior, which is Christ the Lord. And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.' And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host, praising God, and saying, 'Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.'"
[Linus picks up his blanket and walks back towards Charlie Brown]
Linus Van Pelt: That's what Christmas is all about, Charlie Brown.

Be awesome & love Jesus,

kanakuk ashley robbins
ashley@kanakuk.com

Countdown...

2011-12-19T14:53:00.002-06:00

392988 seconds till Christmas...Woohoo!!! Family, fun, fellowship and many moments to prayerfully stand in awe of our Savior coming to this world to save us. Amen!

Be awesome & Love Jesus,

kanakuk ashley robbins
ashley@kanakuk.com

Christmas, Anytime, Message...

2011-12-16T08:00:00.000-06:00

Hey K2 Kanakuk Friends,
This is just my 2 cents...if you know how to get podcast (why did I just type that like you guys don't know how to do podcasts?) then I really encourage you to go to iTunes and sign up for The Village Church with Matt Chandler. Pretty incredible. Also Watermark has their services on iTunes. Todd Wagner, the pastor, is a legendary past kamp guy. Both are just awesome messages to put in your heads and hearts and lives. Check them out.

Be awesome & Love Jesus,

kanakuk ashley robbins
ashley@kanakuk.com

Christmas Classics...

2011-12-15T08:00:00.000-06:00

Hey K2 Kanakuk Friends,
I am just oozing the Christmas spirit as each day I get to blog and I just love this season! I came across these on Amazon. Super fun! I grew up watching these classics! I just love them. Now that I'm a mom some of the "bad guys" are a bit scary (the big bad snowman dude...yikes!) so make sure your little little ones are old enough for that.

You can buy this set here...and nope I haven't been paid by any of these sites to mention them. Just so you know. :)

Be awesome & Love Jesus,

kanakuk ashley robbins
ashley@kanakuk.com

Christmas Tunes...

2011-12-14T08:00:00.000-06:00

Hey K2 Kanakuk Friends,
Glory! This is one of my fav albums at Christmas time. I remember my dear friend from kamp getting me attuned (not sure if that's a word or not but it felt right) to Sara Groves and I am hooked.

You can find it here or on iTunes.

Be awesome & Love Jesus,

kanakuk ashley robbins
ashley@kanakuk.com

Elf Quotes...

2011-12-13T08:00:00.000-06:00

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Hey K2 Kanakuk Friends,

Well, Elf is on my brain. Such a funny and awesome movie! The hubs and I will definitely be watching it at some point. So enjoy these little reminders of awesomeness!

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Be awesome & Love Jesus,

kanakuk ashley robbins
ashley@kanakuk.com

December Loves Part 2...

2011-12-12T14:49:00.000-06:00

Hey K2 Kanakuk Friends,
Here is part 2 of 5 more Favorites for the Holidays...let me note to that I truly desire Christmas to stand for the celebration of God's wonderful plan of bringing his Son to this earth in a stable. I do not see gifts as more important AT ALL. This is meant for a light hearted, fun, "oh ashley likes that, weird" occurrence. Nothing deeper.

6. Boot Socks. Love these boot socks from here. However they only have 2 of the colors and of course it's the grey and dark green. I heart those mustard yellow ones. I would put my whole self in them if I could!

7. Owls! I am obsessed with 3 things right now: owls, burlap and lace. Random but obsessed! This owl necklace found here is just a.dor.able! It's only $12.99. Bargain!!!

8. Colorful, Small Earrings. I am obsessed with these! You can click here for this gals blog but when I clicked on her shop there were no items. These earring are everywhere though!

9. Beautiful prints...I love the messages and the whimsical feel to her prints/design. You can see more here!

10. Kisses from Katie...I honestly have not even read this book but am going to hopefully this month. I read her blog (www.kissesfromkatie.blogspot.com) and she truly is a faithful, inspiring young woman. I am writing to her at some point this month to see if she has a 2 and 1 year olds that my girls can befriend and send toys/clothes/whatever they need and to build this for my 2 girls for many years and prayerfully someday take them and meet the 2 girls of Katies. Weird, maybe, but maybe just maybe she might go for it...mom to mom. She wrote a book and I just want everyone to go buy it to support the Lord's ministry through this young woman. You can go here to read more about it and find out where to buy it.

Be awesome & Love Jesus,

kanakuk ashley robbins
ashley@kanakuk.com

December Loves...

2011-12-09T08:00:00.000-06:00

Hey K2 Kanakuk Friends,
I will be giving away all the following prizes...YEAH RIGHT! Who do you think I am Oprah? How cool would it be if I could...dream, dream...

1. Pinterest. I am officially obsessed. But not in the way that everyone else is. I honestly am DOING stuff from it. Like a lot of items. I tag stuff that I actually want in my house or crafts and DIY's that I am actually doing. Woohoo for action steps!

(I know that #1 is not technically a gift of some sort to give someone...sorry)

2. iPad2. Ha! Well this is truly just a want...just think they are cool.

3. I love small businesses and this is MY FAVORITE on Etsy. The Red Thread has cute Christmas decor, adorable onesies/burp cloths and if you have anyone with a baby you must buy a Christmas beanie hat! Presh!

4. Daytimers, planners, and colors, OH MY! (did you get the movie reference there?)...I love my yearly planners. Last year I got one from here but this year there is a voucher for an Erin Condren (usually $50) and so I bought a $50 voucher for $25 buckeroos! Woohoo! That's 50% off! Who wouldn't love a little organization in their life...it adds minutes to your life if you plan!

5. Lovely Little Headbands...(shameless plug, but I am obsessed with these even if I do happen to make/sell them too). I am still rocking these basically everday. I just love them and just think they are lovely with a dirty hair, messy bun look that I rock every day. You can check them out here.

More to come tomorrow...

Be awesome & Love Jesus,

kanakuk ashley robbins
ashley@kanakuk.com

Dancing Elves...

2011-12-08T14:17:00.001-06:00

Hey K2 Kanakuk Friends,
I had some emails about how to "elf yourself" so I wanted to pass along the link. You just go to www.elfyourself.com powered by Office Max and you can upload a pic or take on if you have a webcam and then watch your little elf self come to life. It's hysterical!

Be awesome & Love Jesus,

kanakuk ashley robbins
ashley@kanakuk.com

Advent Calendar Update...

2011-12-07T08:00:00.000-06:00

Hey K2 Kanakuk Friends,
Well, here is a little peek into our advent calendar so far...it's been a blast! We keep teaching the girls (as much as a 2 and 1 year old will listen and learn) that this is all building up to Jesus' birthday! It's just been so fun...today we get to bundle up and take a family picture outside (and it snowed...perfect!)

Be awesome & Love Jesus,

kanakuk ashley robbins

ashley@kanakuk.com

I Wish...

2011-12-06T08:00:00.000-06:00

Hey K2 Kanakuk Friends,
This video is POWERFUL...but my prayer is that it isn't just powerful but that it brings change for parents and kids, teens, moms and dads to talk about purity...Don't be wishing you had...

Be awesome & Love Jesus,

kanakuk ashley robbins
ashley@kanakuk.com

The Perfect Pair...

2011-12-05T08:00:00.000-06:00

Hey K2 Kanakuk Friends,
I walked into our kitchen today singing Bieber's new Christmas song...precious. Anyways, the hubs asked what I was singing and I told him Biebs. He laughed as he had just gotten home from picking up my latest Craigslist find and I was so so ecstatic about this little project...so he put the two together and said "Justin Bieber and Old Furniture makes for a great day."

Oh that hubs, he's funny...and true!

Be awesome & Love Jesus,

kanakuk ashley robbins
ashley@kanakuk.com

Mom: Christmas Edition...

2011-12-04T08:00:00.001-06:00

{source}: It's actually a FREE Printable.

Hey K2 Kanakuk MOMS (really it should read PARENT),

I am going to try and start a mom post that pops up maybe 1-2 times a month. I am not posting about mommyhood b/c I am any kind of expert. Nor am I posting to build guilt into mom hearts which is such a huge battle...the Lord and I went rounds about guilt and now I don't live in it...freedom (said in a braveheart scream like Mel Gibson)

Okay, so I wanted to simply write/talk/question ask about being a great mom/parent during Christmas? I LOVE / HEART/ OBSESSED with Christmas. I love family, the tree, the wonderful smells, the old movies, games, ornaments, and the Christmas Eve service with candles that reminds you just 1/1000000 of the candles that may have been in that stable when our Savior was born. I want so badly for my kids to love Christmas b/c it's when Jesus was born. I know they will love the tree, snow, family and presents but I want them to know that if all the presents were stripped away their smiles and joy is still there b/c of a baby turned Savior named Jesus. How do we do this well? I honestly have no great wisdom that is proven from any research (considering my kids are still playing with the paper and just want more cheerios to eat)...but here are my thoughts (that's it...just THOUGHTS!)

1. Don't be crazy. Meaning this...your child's Christmas wish list should not be able to cover the whole living room floor. Have a budget and make it a budget that does not involve debt or major credit card charges. Our children need to understand this idea of not living above our means.

2. You must live in a way that SHOWS them Jesus is more important. That means not being ticked if your hubs didn't get you the "it" gift or your family doesn't have the newest i____ (fill in the blank with the newest Apple toy). You must show them Jesus by going shopping for a family that can't get any gifts. A family that on their child's wishlist it says: coat and shoes. They must see the Holy Spirit in you. I tear up thinking about this as I am challenged by my own typing...

3. Teach your kids to make/get gifts for others. I can't wait to begin to teach our kids more (they don't do a lot of deep thinking or communication at this point) about giving. I love teenagers that come to kamp and say they had to pay for some of kamp or kids that just get it...they don't lean over to you and say can I have money to go get you a Christmas gift (if they even ask at all). They save and get their parents a gift or they create something as the kids to give to their parents. The oldest siblings watch the little ones for 4 nights during the month for a date night. They all color a manger scene and frame it for their parents. They all come together to get their Grandma a digital photo frame all set up with pictures b/c she can sit there in a nursing home and see her legacy.

4. Open their eyes. Go deliver gifts to kids whose parents are in prison. Go feed food to the homeless. Read Kisses from Katie and send over care packages. Fill boxes for Samaritan purse and have the kids put some of their toys in there. Make them understand they are millionaires b/c they have a roof over their heads, running water and a fridge full of food.

5. Read about Jesus. Read about Jesus and talk openly that while gifts and monetary blessings are so fun that they don't mean anything compared to Jesus and knowing Him. Talk about if the "stuff" were all taken away that we all still have Jesus' love and hope and each other.

6. Start young...and if you can't...reprogram. I know this is a weird one...for me, I want to start young that Christmas is not a time to raise our credit cards (we actually don't even have one...Dave Ramsey lives in our house as my hubs) limit to afford our kids wish list. I want to start young in being grateful for 1 gift or just being together with a yummy meal and family. (I have to add this does not include my mom and dad who will spoil our kids as much as they like...haha! Grandparenting must be awesome!). But even with that I want my kids to LOVE my parents and just being with them...the gifts are just an extra...not an expectation. I never want the mountain of gifts to be an expectation.

* Now if yours are older...reprogram. Shock value can be huge here. What if for Christmas you sent your entire typical Christmas money for gifts to a missionary in Egypt. What if you all were allowed to gift 1 gift and the others would go to those without. I loved that for our birthdays growing up my parents would get us 1 gift and by no means a HUGE gift. I remember one year I got a pair of jeans I needed. I loved them and was so thankful. It taught me simplicity.

Okay...so those are thoughts...not expertise and no judgements. Monetary blessing is not bad and Christmas gifts are not bad either...it's your focus on the gifts and what you would be like if the gifts were all gone...JUST THOUGHTS...

Be awesome & Love Jesus,

kanakuk ashley robbins

ashley@kanakuk.com

These Would be Awesome...

2011-12-03T08:00:00.000-06:00

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Hey K2 Kanakuk Friends,
Okay, seriously, how fun are those little props for a photo session during the Christmas season with your family! It would be so fun! You could literally just set up your computer and click on Photo Booth and have folks pick a fun prop and be silly! It would be a priceless book for your grandparents of their whole legacy of a family! Such a fun idea!

Okay, so follow the source and order them (No I do not know who sells them nor am I getting paid...just love the product) or spend a day and make your own!

Go...do Christmas-ey stuff!

Be awesome & Love Jesus,

kanakuk ashley robbins
ashley@kanakuk.com

Biebs & Christmas...

2011-12-02T08:00:00.000-06:00

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Hey K2 Kanakuk Friends,
Okay, I finally listened to it and I think it's precious. That's all I will say. I love how you (girls) are either fans or totally not fans...but I have to wonder if the not fans are but just want to rock the boat. All in the name of being different...

Be awesome & Love Jesus,

kanakuk ashley robbins
ashley@kanakuk.com

Advent Calendar...

2011-12-01T08:00:00.000-06:00

{source: original pottery barn)

Hey K2 Kanakuk Friends,
Well, I have my advent calendar made and am thinking of all the little activities or goodies to put in each day...here are some thoughts (some will be for the whole family and others just for Shay and I since our little ones, well, are LITTLE):

1. I have a new addiction and person on my prayer list. Kisses from Katie is this amazing blog about a gal that has adopted like 13 kiddos and feeds hundreds each day. She left after high school and everyone thought she was crazy. She has a new book out and I can't wait to read it. One idea is that I want the girls and I to write her a letter and send something...money, small trinkets, something...I want to connect with her somehow. I know that's wacky...
2. Go see Santa.
3. Make hot cocoa in the coco-motion and add lots of whip cream...with each sip.
4. Go sing carols to the Rapps. (a kamp family that I think would enjoy it...Bronwyn if you are reading this look away, look away).
5. Play in the snow...obviously, if it snows.
6. Wear Christmas PJ's all day long.
7. Make a new ornament for the tree.
8. Read the Polar Express.
9. Go look at Christmas lights.
10. Take a picture as a family all bundled up.
11. Wrap our Christmas gifts in fun, creative ways.
12. Make our family the dancing elves e-card and send to family.
13. Watch Christmas Story.

That's all my brain can think of right now...thoughts?

Be awesome & Love Jesus,

kanakuk ashley robbins
ashley@kanakuk.com

Goodbye November...

2011-11-30T08:00:00.000-06:00

{source}

Hey K2 Kanakuk Friends,
November...you have been a beautiful awesome month. You're great. I'm very thankful for you...see what I did there?

Hello December...posts I'm brainstorming about...
1. wisdom on coming back home to high school friends when you are not the same person for Christmas break. wow, need to work on title.
2. do you know what Christmas means.
3. my favs...christmas gifts idea.
4. funny christmas pictures.
5. best hot cocoa machine tribute.
6. to snow or not to snow.
7. Christmas spirit.
8. elf.
9. games to play with your family.
10. funny stocking stuffers.
11. christmas movies.
12. my handmade advent calendar. oh, maybe i'll blog about each of my activities from our families advent calendar...hmm...maybe.

Just some thoughts...

Be awesome & Love Jesus,

kanakuk ashley robbins
ashley@kanakuk.com

I'm Dreaming...

2011-11-28T08:00:00.000-06:00

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Hey K2 Kanakuk Friends,
Just what I'm thinking and humming today...have fun days!

Be awesome & Love Jesus,

kanakuk ashley robbins
ashley@kanakuk.com

100 Ways to Make a Difference...

2011-11-26T08:00:00.000-06:00

{source}

Hey K2 Kanakuk Friends,
Well, after Thanksgiving I always have moments of thinking of children that are starving and we sit down to a meal big enough to serve a small country. Please don't get me wrong. I am not saying we shouldn't have Thanksgiving or the blessings the Lord has given to each of you and me. BUT I am saying do we think of others, of our world, of our neighbors under the bridge enough if any at all...I found this great site of 100 Ways For Your Family to Make a Difference. It's a great resource. Grab your friends or your family or both and decide to make a difference.

Be awesome & Love Jesus,

kanakuk ashley robbins
ashley@kanakuk.com

Happy Thanksgiving...

2011-11-24T08:00:00.000-06:00

{source} This is her shop but print must not be available any longer.

Hey K2 Kanakuk Friends,
Happy Thanksgiving from our family to yours! Sure thankful for this ministry that has somehow connected us all!

Be awesome & Love Jesus,

kanakuk ashley robbins
ashley@kanakuk.com

2 Days...

2011-11-22T08:00:00.000-06:00

Hey K2 Kanakuk Friends,
Yep! It's 2 days from the most epic parade of all times...besides Cabot, Arkansas Homecoming parade 1999. Obviously! MACY'S Thanksgiving Day Parade is on in 2 days...I'm sure you all knew that b/c you all have a countdown on your fridge. I'm sure of it!

Don't forget to watch...my momma and I will be...with 2 little extras this year. (oh, wait those two were here last year too...so it's their 2nd annual parade.)

Be awesome & Love Jesus,

kanakuk ashley robbins
ashley@kanakuk.com

Taylor Swift Interview...

2011-11-21T20:23:00.001-06:00

Hey K2 Kanakuk Friends,
I know I usually blog every other day but I heard so much about this interview today I had to post about it. I am so cautious when it comes to celebrities and I have no idea if Taylor knows Jesus and has a personal relationship with Him...but I do know she seems cool. She seems like she understands that she is a role model.

Click here to read the interview transcript.

This is the quote that just makes me adore her more...

Lesley Stahl: You're a role model and you know it.

Taylor Swift: I think it's my responsibility to know it, and to be conscious of it. And it would be really easy to say-- you know, I'm-- I'm 21 now. I do what I want. You raise your kids. But it's, that's not the truth of it. The truth of it is that every singer out there with songs on the radio is raising the next generation. So make your words count.

Be awesome & Love Jesus,

kanakuk ashley robbins
ashley@kanakuk.com

Favorite Thanksgiving Food...

2011-11-20T08:00:00.000-06:00

{source}

Hey K2 Kanakuk Friends,
Oh the delicious food that is coming in a mere week. I can't wait! I was dreaming of this magical food and overstuffed meal that is coming our way soon and I just wondered if I had to pick a favorite which one it would be...yeah, it's a deep question.

1. Green Bean Casserole. Kind of weird I know but it's my favorite. Then...
2. Rolls. Then...
3. Apple Pie with LOTS of ice cream.

What about you? What's your favorite?

Be awesome & Love Jesus,

kanakuk ashley robbins
ashley@kanakuk.com

Family...

2011-11-18T14:07:00.001-06:00

{source}

Hey K2 Kanakuk Friends,
Family. What does that word mean to you? For some of you it immediately makes you think of your mom, your dad and siblings. For others it makes you think of your grandparents who are raising you. Or for some family is a word you feel when you are with certain friends who truly get you. Family is a word that should be treasured and cherished.

Family...how do you treat yours?

Be awesome & Love Jesus,

kanakuk ashley robbins
ashley@kanakuk.com

Thankful Jar...

2011-11-15T14:41:00.001-06:00

this is my actual jar from my house. go crafty me!

Hey K2 Kanakuk Friends,
How have I let 4 days go by...so sorry. Today is about the Robbins' thankful jar. Shay and I started this at the beginning of the month but I must admit I stole the idea from Young House Love. We write on some paper each day something we are thankful for. We don't read each others and at the end of the month we will go through them together. I can't wait! I know one of the hubs said "beef" one day...he loves his meat!

So go start a thankful jar of your own. Go, go, go...I'm thankful for this ministry...Kanakuk Kamps!

Be awesome & Love Jesus,

kanakuk ashley robbins
ashley@kanakuk.com

Listen Up...

2011-11-11T08:00:00.000-06:00

{source}

Hey K2 Kanakuk Friends,
I am super super obsessed with this print from....ETSY. Did anyone gasp out of surprise!? No, okay. I typed in listen and this was one of the first things to pop up. I think it is so relevant (a word I don't necessarily want or try to be) for you all's generation. It looks real...

I, in no way, am being disrespectful to think that the voice of God is as simple as headphones so please don't get theological on me. I just like the idea of her being quiet and listening. We sometimes, well a lot of times, need to silence the world's opinions and listen to His gentle and strong voice in our lives...

Are you listening?

Be awesome & Love Jesus,

kanakuk ashley robbins
ashley@kanakuk.com

Staple Gun Wins...

2011-11-09T08:00:00.000-06:00

Hey K2 Kanakuk Friends,
Well, I had the brilliant idea to recover these "poofs" I bought at a garage sale a few weekends ago. I talked to my professional sewer (a fellow kamp director) and we decided to cut circles and then sew elastic on. Well, if my professional sewer would have done them they, I'm sure, would be perfect with elastic perfectly fitted around the poofs. But it's me we are talking (typing) about...so what did I do?

I tried the elastic and when it failed, I flipped those poofs over and just started stapling. I figure if I ever want to change the fabric I chose I just yank out those staples and do it all over again. At the end of the night I must confess that those staple guns are hard work. The hand was definitely a bit sore...okay, I was super whiney about it to the hubs! He mocked with love and we have 2 awesome poofs in our home now.

This post has no reason to influence your life. Just a random story. You're welcome.

Be awesome & Love Jesus,

kanakuk ashley robbins
ashley@kanakuk.com

To Do...

2011-11-07T14:10:00.002-06:00

{source}

Hey K2 Kanakuk Friends,
Sorry that I am a bit behind in blogging. Goodness, time out for me. Just kidding! I feel like today I have like 1,000 to do lists running through my head...one for the garage projects, house projects, girls clothes to reorganize and work. It's just too many lists for my blonde head (please, fellow blondies let's not take offense but simply embrace it).

So this is my new to do list for this moment. I'm off to go put on a scarf now...check that off!

Be awesome & Love Jesus,

kanakuk ashley robbins
ashley@kanakuk.com

What's Next?...

2011-11-03T08:00:00.000-05:00

{source}

Hey K2 Kanakuk Friends,
Well, you all are aware, if you have been following this blog for long, that social media is not my favorite (which is pretty hypocritical considering I am blogging). But I just want to quit facebook so bad as I just feel to "out there" to the world. It feels awkward to read about what people ate at lunch and that they are ready for a nap after studying for 6 hours. It's just weird, to me, and probably just to me. Anyways, that is for another post...(don't be the person that reads this and gets all passionate about social media. I get it, I embrace it, and am a part of it. I just still want the option to not love it in my heart.)

So I was thinking today as I was checking my messages on facebook. What is going to be next? I mean twitter is big. I'm not on it b/c it feels like you have to always be funny. Alas, I don't want that kind of pressure. But what will be the next like big deal in this crazy connected world...

Just wondering and wanting you to wonder with me...

Be awesome & Love Jesus,

kanakuk ashley robbins
ashley@kanakuk.com

Wisdom on Sorority Life...

2011-11-01T08:00:00.000-05:00

{source}

Hey K2 Kanakuk Friends,

Well, the "Wisdom to Pass Down" post was pretty successful (it went viral...haha, kidding!) so as I replied on Facebook to my sorority 10 year reunion (don't do any math to figure out my age...just kidding, I don't get the whole don't ask women there age...I'm 30! Woo!) I thought about how special of a time it was. It is like no other time in life. I am not the person that looks back to college and says, "it was the best years of my life." If that were true, I would still be like a 13th year senior. It was an amazing time but I do pray I always love the exact stage of where I am TODAY.

I know a bit of folks that WERE campers are now in college so thought this could be helpful...or maybe not at all but you will get to laugh at me and find out where to buy the ADORABLE sorority prints from Etsy.

Anyways, as I looked through the girls from my pledge class that had responded to the get together I was once again taken back to those days. The days when I was surrounded by 250 girls that were all at different points in their journey with the Lord. I was never super close to any of them as I rushed as a junior and therefore asked to not to have to live in the house but they are still connected to my heart. I know for me as I look back there are some little nuggets I just wish I would have realized more...

1. Picking a sorority is not about YOU or "go where you feel comfortable." This is the extreme opposite of being a believer is about. When you go through rush (and yes, rush is a big game) you need to not think "oh, where am I most comfortable," but "Lord where do you want to uncomfortably use my life to bring You glory?"

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2. Be bold. Girls always tell me they started drinking b/c of the sorority life, pledging or what have you. Girls, if you tell the house you don't drink and won't drink they cannot force you to. If they do, it's not a good sorority. Put your foot down from the beginning. The first night after pledge day we all spent the night at the house. It was so awkward as I was so out of my comfort zone (I rushed as a junior literally b/c the Lord told me to in a communication class one day...random!) and we were all told to bring something that means a lot to us. (this story is not to toot my horn but to show you an example) So I brought my Bible. I knew it was a way for me to be very clear whose I was and what life I want to live. It would give people a glimpse of not just luke-warm christianity but this is the single most important thing in my life. So I was scared and shaky but I shared with each girl that my salvation in Jesus Christ was the most important thing to me. I think they knew from that point on that there would be no crazy hazing for that pledge, but yet I didn't miss out on anything.

3. Look around & See Past the Front. I do wish I would have been more intentional with people in my house in college. I was so busy building a stupid resume filled with meaningless successes that I missed just loving the girls that surrounded me. Just seeing the stories, hurts and hangups that needed Jesus or just encouragement. I didn't look past the perfect dresses for chapter nights or all the girls looking like they had a blast at the frat party or the girls that gossip about each other until that person would walk up...I so wish I would have looked past that and not ran from it but pressed into it to see the heart.

4. Make Memories. As a christian it does not mean you can't be in a sorority and do it right and well. You can. Study nights...take a cupcake break. Be the girl at the house on Friday night if someone needs a ride. Go get her. Go write your pledge trainer a note saying thanks and that you are praying for her. Ask girls you eat with every day at the house...how can I be praying for you? Be silly during Rush Work Week...keep perspective for the house. Make an 80's dance party in the 16 girl room in the house.

5. Bite your tongue and leave your judge hammer at home. Jesus was about love and grace. Let's say that you have that figured out and live life for the Lord. I hate to tell you but there might be those around you who it takes a bit to figure it out. I am not telling you "don't be bold" or to be lukewarm. But don't walk into your sorority house with tracks flying out your pants and your Bible smashin on their faces. Bite your tongue by not gossiping...how would you look any different if you are gossiping about others in your house? And don't judge, just love them with Jesus' love.

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6. Share the gospel when the door is open. The hubs had a leadership guy that got to speak at this fraternity recruiting night #1. He was supposed to speak on the character of the house and the religious aspect (I'm guessing they wanted him to mention they have Bible studies for those interested). Well, this fellow ended up sharing the gospel and infusing Jesus to every recruit that walked in. When asked to maybe tone it down on the "Jesus" stuff, he answered no, he couldn't, and the leader who respects this guy said "okay."

7. Be fun. Be silly. Don't be all hoity toity stuck up weirdo judgy christian girl. Be joyful, be patient, be kind, be loving...Be Jesus. (although I am fully aware you AND I mess up tons...it's okay. own that and change)

8. Be involved. Help with things when asked. When a gal heading a committee needs volunteers...do it. Don't just sign up for the banner which is fun to make but help with something that shows your support of other girls in your house.

9. Really celebrate your sisters' accomplishments. I remember feeling in the room when we would all celebrate something in our chapter meetings but you could feel just jealously oozing from folks. Yuck. Be a girl that hugs a girl for getting best pledge or president or pledge trainer. Write them a note later to tell them congrats and that you will be praying for them. Rejoice...

10. Don't lose you! Don't go out on week 1 to the frat house knowing it's not a good situation. If you do, learn and get involved in a small group outside your house. Get accountability. Don't think you have to be the world driven "sorority girl." Be you, be different.

Well that's all my wisdom...and even those 10 things I'm sure not everyone would agree with. But there ya go. Take what you want and ignore the rest if you want.

Be awesome & Love Jesus,

kanakuk ashley robbins

ashley@kanakuk.com

Boots...

2011-10-29T08:00:00.000-05:00

{source}

Hey K2 Kanakuk Friends,
BOOTS...I ~~want~~ need some boots! I am just a sucker for a good, cognac no heel, big circumference for calves boot. Anyone else? No...weird.

Fall just brings out the shoe-aholic in me to just love boots. No heels (sorry just a personal thing there...running after 2 little ones in 4 inch boot heels = not attractive or practical.). I just love them. At a football game I went to that is what I did while tailgating...just looked at people boots...not in a creepy way. In a "no, not quite those" or "don't want dark brown cuz then i can't wear with grey and black" or "those are perfect except oh, wait, my calf musles are close to don ford's size." That was my day.

Anyone have a favorite pair they would like to share? I found my new planner by asking so I'm going to start asking...remember I might have a smaller budget than the average American for fall boots.

Be awesome & Love Jesus,

kanakuk ashley robbins
ashley@kanakuk.com

Kanakuk Staff Interviews...

2011-10-27T08:00:00.000-05:00

Hey K2 Kanakuk Friends,

If you are an alumni kamper that awesomely checks KanakukAshley or if you are a kamper that is in college or if you are in college and check this YOU HAVE TO COME INTERVIEW TO WORK AT KANAKUK/KIDS ACROSS AMERICA.

Seriously, just click HERE and you will be sent to the Kanakuk Movie Tour page and just click on your state and it will show you where all the shows are and you can go to them, fill out the application, and interview. It is literally the.best.job.ever!

Be awesome & Love Jesus,

kanakuk ashley robbins
ashley@kanakuk.com

Pumpkin Chili...

2011-10-25T08:00:00.000-05:00

{source}

Hey K2 Kanakuk Friends,
(Side Note Notes:
1. that is not a baby of mine.
2. i don't know whose baby it is.
3. it was too cute not to use as the main picture.
4. this post has nothing to do with babies but pumpkin chili recipe.
5. i typed in pumpkin to etsy and this was one of the first things i saw. PRESH.PRESH.

I made Pumpkin Chili. YUM.dizzle.YUM. It was so deeeelish. Grab a friend, your momma, your dadda, your little sister or bro, your aunt or whoever and snuggle into your snuggie, rent a redbox (no I was not paid by redbox for that ad. it would be awesome if i was though!) and eat some yummy chili. If you hate chili, you should not make this.

RECIPE @ www.allrecipes.com (Click Here)

Prep Time:
20 Min

Cook Time:
1 Hr

Ready In:
1 Hr 20 Min

Servings (Help)

USMetricCalculate

Original Recipe Yield 8 servings

Ingredients

2 pounds ground beef
1 large onion, diced
1 green bell pepper, diced
2 (15 ounce) cans kidney beans, drained
1 (46 fluid ounce) can tomato juice
1 (28 ounce) can peeled and diced tomatoes with juice
1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice
1 tablespoon chili powder
1/4 cup white sugar

Directions

In a large pot over medium heat, cook beef until brown; drain. Stir in onion and bell pepper and cook 5 minutes. Stir in beans, tomato juice, diced tomatoes and pumpkin puree. Season with pumpkin pie spice, chili powder and sugar. Simmer 1 hour.

Nutritional Information

Amount Per Serving Calories: 409 | Total Fat: 16.4g | Cholesterol: 69mgPowered by ESHA Nutrient Database

I will tell you that I added a can of corn and I would not add the whole onion next time. But that is b/c the hubs hates onions. The corn just gave it a bit more color. The hubs' granny tried it today and LOVED it and we had it last night with all our Kanakuk Institute K2 guys and they ravished it! They added Tabasco to it...oh, boys and their hot sauces!

Be awesome & Love Jesus,

kanakuk ashley robbins
ashley@kanakuk.com

Why Hollywood?...

2011-10-23T08:00:00.000-05:00

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Hey K2 Kanakuk Friends,
Why? Why do we (america, teenage girls, media) have this crazy, crazy, CRAZY obsession with Hollywood (ie: fame, famous people, actors, singers, dirt on all of them, what their kids eat for lunch, etc)? We want to know everything.

I blog about this b/c I just spent 30 minutes going to different sites (foxnews.com, people.com etc) looking for something to blog about...my mind was rather empty -- Surprise! I left that 30 minutes with nothing to blog about except how much we are obsessed. Trust me I am with the obsession at times...when I check out at the grocery aisle I pick up People or one of my best friends passes down People magazine to me every so often. I like to know too. BUT WHY?

I by no means have the answer, simply wanted to pose the question. So talk amongst yourselves...

Be awesome & Love Jesus,

kanakuk ashley robbins
ashley@kanakuk.com

One of My Heroes...

2011-10-21T08:00:00.000-05:00

Hey K2 Kanakuk Friends,
I could tear up and start laughing uncontrollably as I begin to type this post. Betsy Bolick is the definition of an amazing, Godly, funny, fun, real, humble, sassy, phenomenal woman. I feel so stinkin' humbled to refer to her as a dear friend. I am super selfish when it comes to her friendship as far as someday when she is headling Women of Faith conferences with the likes of Beth Moore, Kay Arthur and Vicki Courtney I want to receive all the recognition of being a friend to THE Betsy Bolick. You think I'm kidding but I tell her often that I just want to be on her Board of Directors someday when her speaking is a full time gig...which brings me to my post...BETSY!

Ya'll she is amazing...goodness, I said this already. I know a lot of you need speakers for church events, discipleship now retreats, women's conferences, etc. PLEASE consider Betsy Bolick! She can speak on anything, anywhere to anyone. Obviously her testimony alone is a story of God's hand and grace and faithfulness. Her story is HIS. She is vulnerable, passionate, funny, authentic and hearts will see Jesus in her. She is working in one of the Carolinas (I promise we are good friends I just get my states confused) but her heart is to be sharing the messages that God continually puts on her heart. She is just an amazing communicator. Once you hear her once you will want her back for like every event...seriously! So please click http://www.betsybolick.blogspot.com/ and check her out. She blogs often and her contact email to set up a speaking engagement is betsbol@gmail.com .

So grab your youth pastor and tell him about this gal. You won't regret it as she truly allows hearts to hear Jesus through her messages! Life changing!

p.s. Yes, I am shamelessly plugging her and her ministry...why? BECAUSE I BELIEVE IN HER SO MUCH!

Be awesome & Love Jesus,

kanakuk ashley robbins
ashley@kanakuk.com

Are You Organized?...

2011-10-19T08:00:00.000-05:00

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Hey K2 Kanakuk Friends,
Well, my brain is overwhelmed with organization right now. Out of the 15 things on my to do list 10 of them have the word "reorganize" in them. I just had to do the Robbins' big grocery run that I try to do once every 2-3 weeks depending on how the hubs is eating or if he is in town or traveling with kamp...depending on that it can even be once a month. So I thought it might be good to ask yourself what in your life could use a bit of organization? A certain drawer in your dresser? A bag stashed under your bed of random junk? Your purse? Go. Print a chart. Throw away. Organize Yourself! It is so refreshing! Don't say I didn't warn you if you start organizing and can't stop. It's a sickness.

Be awesome & Love Jesus,

kanakuk ashley robbins
ashley@kanakuk.com

It's Monday...

2011-10-17T14:31:00.001-05:00

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Hey K2 Kanakuk Friends,
Well, I was looking for something to blog about and came across this already perfect image with already perfect question. Perfect right? The comical thing about this is that I'm not really reading a book right now (minus the Bible). So ponder the question for yourself...what are you reading right now?

p.s. Upon further review I am technically reading a lot of books...i.e. Princess of the Potty, Pajama Time, The Going to Bed Book, You are My I Love You, Colors, Brown Bear Brown Bear...so there is my very incomplete list because our precious firstborn and I read about 50 books a day.

Be awesome & Love Jesus,

kanakuk ashley robbins
ashley@kanakuk.com

Wisdom to Pass Down...

2011-10-15T08:00:00.000-05:00

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Hey K2 Kanakuk Friends,
Well, I get a lot of questions in the summer about high school and how to do it right or how to go through high school well. So I thought I would simply give you some tidbits from what I learned. Disclaimer: I am still clueless and still a hot mess in need of Jesus! So read and take what you want...

0. the above sign is false. we will have regrets because we are sinners. it's what you do with the regret moments and how you grow from them.

1. A Friday night here and there (or every weekend) kickin' it at home with your 10 year old sister/brother is not the end of the world. Seriously. Make popcorn, make a fort and watch a movie they want to watch.

2. Gossip is just stupid. Don't let it bother you, don't be a part of it, and don't be afraid to stand up to it.

3. Your parents know stuff. Quit treating them like they don't.

4. You are worth more than your looks, your reputation, your body or your moves on the dance floor. You are worth...well, priceless.

5. Don't be afraid to be alone...whether you are social or maybe shy, don't be afraid to get time alone and just sing, pray, be at peace with your thoughts. This actually means no phone, iPad, iPod, iNano, iShuffle or any other contraption with an "i" before it.

6. Go to CHRISTIAN counseling. This one might sound weird. What I mean is that who, out of all of us, doesn't need to be with someone that can ask us deep questions and listen as we talk about ourselves. If it's your mom, great but if not find someone that asks deep questions about you...your heart. And if it happens to be a paid professional...WHO CARES!

7. Be loyal...be a loyal friend. Friends in high school can change as much as Justin Bieber does in 1 concert. So be loyal. Don't talk about your friends. Don't exclude friends because they aren't cool anymore. Be loyal.

8. Show respect for your parents in front of friends/people. When your parents come to get you don't yell and slam the door close. When your friends ask if you want to come to a party tell them you gotta check with your parents first. When your boyfriend asks to stay out past curfew tell him no because you respect your parents. (then please break up with him...seriously)

9. Having or not having a boyfriend and high school does not predict your dating future for the rest of your life. promise. I married the most awesome, godly, coolest guy in the whole world and in high school I dated 1 guy all 4 years...bubba. So trust me you will be okay.

10. Believe in something. I, obviously, believe that to the our need for a Savior and that Savior being Jesus...but search, dig, go there in your heart of what you really believe and why. I promise there is a Creator and a Father at the end of that journey who made you and loves you.

Okay, well, there are some tidbits...

Be awesome & Love Jesus,

kanakuk ashley robbins
ashley@kanakuk.com

Bahahaha...

2011-10-13T08:00:00.000-05:00

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bahahahaha....Hey K2 Kanakuk Friends, the post today is this hysterical print on Etsy. This just makes me laugh so hard. I think once I get a desk for our house and actually hang these shelves I have had for 2 years and buy some frames or clips I will buy this little print and hang it above my desk. I mean seriously....if I could video me laughing and add it to this post I would...which would be a perfect post.

bahahahahahahaha!!!!!!!!!!

Be awesome & Love Jesus,

kanakuk ashley robbins
ashley@kanakuk.com

Scotty McCreery...

2011-10-11T08:00:00.000-05:00

Hey K2 Kanakuk Friends,
Okay, girlies...Scotty's CD just was released on the 4th. Did you guys buy it? What are you thoughts? I haven't bought it but I think Scotty is just a precious boy (this is how I know I am old and a mom b/c I just typed precious boy like he grew up next to us and I saw him running around in his diaper at the wee age of 2). Anyways, I love that he loves Jesus (from everything I have seen) and he just seems grounded...O, Lord please don't let me eat my words on that one. Not that word..."seems." Please Hollywood be nice to him and Scotty if you know Jesus...live it and make an impact. Live for something greater than selling your album. Live for Jesus who gave you this wonderful gift.

Cheesy post...yep. Do I love it? Yep. Thoughts, go?

Be Awesome & Love Jesus,

kanakuk ashley robbins
ashley@kanakuk.com

Dream...

2011-10-09T08:00:00.000-05:00

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Hey K2 Kanakuk Friends,
Goodness, I love dreamin...I sometimes just sit in our house just dreaming of all kinds of things...dream vacations, dreams for our family, dream of getting on a HGTV show, dreams for kamp, dreams of weird flashback moments...lots of dreaming is done in our home.

I love the idea and hope that comes when you have dreams...dreams of a certain school or a certain boy asking you to the dance or a dream to be a dance teacher with your own studio...whatever the dream I wish I could be a cheerleader for each of you. Truly! I pray that this world has thrown you around so much that you have lost your will to dream and dream wildly. Dream of the craziest things...becoming an actress, writing a book, living in the jungles of Africa to share the gospel...anything. Just keep dreaming.

So grab your journal and write your wildest dream...mine at one point was to be Katie Couric...I think my life is WAY better than even my craziest dream.

Be Awesome & Love Jesus,

kanakuk ashley robbins
ashley@kanakuk.com

It's Okay...

2011-10-07T08:00:00.000-05:00

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Hey K2 Kanakuk Friends,
How much do I adore this print from Etsy above? (Side Note: how obsessed on a scale of 1-10 am I of Etsy? 500 Bazillion). I think as I typed up the "slow down" blog post I love writing just little gems. Little sparkle gems for you to put in your little pockets of your heart and to maybe remember them.

So mistakes...I by no stretch of the imagination am asking for you to be a grace abuser (def: someone who knows Jesus, knows of His grace but accepts Him and then doesn't change. lives life for herself. like joe's crosstalk this summer when he talked about being a punt returner that always waved for fair catch.) in that you make mistakes knowingly and freely just to live how you want to. I am talking about being so scared to make a mistake because it means you aren't perfect. It would mean you don't have everything together. It would mean you need Jesus just as much as the next girl. It's okay my sweet friends to not have it together at all times. Goodness, as I type I am in grey sweats, grey large tshirt and my face has salt on it from running earlier at which point I felt like dying. There is a roast bubbling in the crock pot but it's not quite thickening like I thought so it's just grey water around it. I have pink little sweatpants that have, well pee, on them from a certain little secondborn hung on the washer needing to wash. My bed is made but my closet has clothes all up on the floor in there. I am still needing to finish a project that was due last week for Kanakuk (sorry Trish) and I have nothing red to wear for the Arkansas Game this weekend which is on my mind more than should be appropriately so. Having life all together at all times would be so...boring.

So see...in that summation of my day (really just this hour) I am a hot mess. I don't just make mistakes, my life is usually a big mistake where I realize I NEED Jesus so much. It's like stupid that He loves me so so much for all my heaps of mistakes, craziness, and quirks...but He loves me even in lots of grey.

Be awesome & love Jesus,

kanakuk ashley robbins
ashley@kanakuk.com

Slow Down...

2011-10-05T08:00:00.000-05:00

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Hey K2 Kanakuk Friends,
Oh, how I adore this beautiful print above. I love the play on the message by bumping down the "low." I just love it. I worry sometimes this world is just too fast. I look at even gals at Branson High school and they are so busy. Schoolwork, sports, community service, jobs and the list goes on and on. These are great girls...great, godly girls. But sometimes I just want to slow them down. Remind them that being the busiest or the brainiest or the beautiest (I know it's not a word but it went with my rhythm) is NOT the most important thing. To be able to slow down and cuddle on the couch with your big brother to watch the Sing Off. To be able to slow down to go on a caramel apple spice run with your daddio. To be able to slow down to grab your friend's hand to say, "are you okay?"

Sweet girls...slow down. In heaven, you being the top 3% of your class will not be the deciding factor of entrance or not. In heaven, you being involved in EVERYTHING will not be a part of the process once there. Slow down, enjoy Jesus, love people...

Be awesome & love Jesus,

kanakuk ashley robbins
ashley@kanakuk.com

Love Whooooo You Are...

2011-10-03T14:42:00.002-05:00

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Hey K2 Kanakuk Friends,
It is so interesting...whether you are 86, 43, 30, or 15...we all STRUGGLE to LOVE who the Lord has made us to be. Why is this? Why do we not see the beautiful creation that Jesus made? Instead we see all the bad, all the negative, all the things we want changed. I type this today thinking of one of my dearest friends...and every other friend...and for that matter me.

We have to choose each day to wrap up in the love of Jesus and the perfect Creator He is like a fall scarf on a cool day. His love and purpose in us is so much bigger than anything we could fathom with our feeble, tiny minds (mine tinier than others). So today seize this...love who you are b/c of who made you.

Be awesome & Love Jesus,

kanakuk ashley robbins
ashley@kanakuk.com

Sonic + Mom...

2011-09-28T14:30:00.000-05:00

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Hey K2 Kanakuk Friends,
Okay, today's post. Read this. Grab your mom (or fill in the blank with any family member. Key word: family member) and go to Sonic Happy Hour. Always be creating memories...go.

Be awesome & Love Jesus,

kanakuk ashley robbins
ashley@kanakuk.com

Go Play...

2011-09-26T16:00:00.000-05:00

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Hey K2 Kanakuk Friends,
It is bea.utif.ul today! I have no idea why I added the "." in between that word but I just needed the dramatic effect. So there ya go!

Seriously, quit reading this blog and go play catch with your little sister or brother. Go wash your parents car or have a dinner picnic. As I type this I realize I forget not everyone lives in the south (I know Branson is not in the south but I just like to tell myself that I still live in the south. Let me live my dream people). So if your weather is a bit under the weather, throw on a snow coat and go shiver outside...it's good for your throat that cool, crisp air. Ha!

Off to play with 2 little munchkins!

Be awesome & Love Jesus,

kanakuk ashley robbins
ashley@kanakuk.com

If I Could Go Back...

2011-09-24T08:00:00.000-05:00

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Hey K2 Kanakuk Friends,
Okay, so growing up I didn't go to Homecoming dances. We, good 'ole Cabot High, didn't have dances. Or at least I can't remember having them. We did have proms which is basically the same thing these days. But here are the lessons I would like to impart to you...take them, apply them, ignore them, or whatever you would like to do...

1. wear cute flats. i mean honestly they make ADORABLE flats these days. get some sparkly ones and you are set.
2. go comfy. comfy. comfy. don't go crazy with a dress that is uncomfortable and you have to wear all kinds of craziness underneath to make it work. just go normal.
3. borrow. borrow. borrow. if you have friends that are older or have some cute dresses...borrow.
4. wear YOU. wear something that is you. wear something with natural fabrics and tones. there are moments for va-va glam but only if you live in hollywood and you are going to the emmys. homecoming dances are small town sweet dances...look natural.
5. keep makeup YOU. again, don't change your whole routine for one night. guys like natural YOU. and if they don't, well, not a good guy. add a bit more color to the lips if you want and another coat of mascara but don't get cray-cray.
6. hair. ponytails can be elegant and are so great. enough said.

well, maybe this is more of a lesson in naturalness in homecoming dresses/style. I would just like to have a disclaimer that I have no styling degrees or even any training. I just am sharing what I think is beautiful and what I wish I would have done for my 2 proms in high school and chi omega functions in college. BE YOU.

Be awesome & Love Jesus,

kanakuk ashley robbins
ashley@kanakuk.com

Kanakuk Ashley

October Baby...

Now or Not Hiring...

1 Mom + Daughters + NYC...

February: The Month of Hearts...

He Does...

Feel Like vs. Actually Look Like...

S'more Bars...

Let's Go to the Beach...

Read Anything Good Lately?...

Courageous...

Oh, man...

Remember...

Lovely Headbands...

Be Silly...

Teenage Memory...

Lord, When I'm Older...

A Blank Mind is...

Passion 2012...

Resolutions...

Hey 2012...

Merry Christmas...

Merry Christmas Eve...

Christmas Traditions...

Christmas Tuney Tunes...

Oh Charlie Brown...

Countdown...

Christmas, Anytime, Message...

Christmas Classics...

Christmas Tunes...

Elf Quotes...

December Loves Part 2...

December Loves...

Dancing Elves...

Advent Calendar Update...

I Wish...

The Perfect Pair...

Mom: Christmas Edition...

These Would be Awesome...

Biebs & Christmas...

Advent Calendar...

Goodbye November...

I'm Dreaming...

100 Ways to Make a Difference...

Happy Thanksgiving...

2 Days...

Taylor Swift Interview...

Favorite Thanksgiving Food...

Family...

Thankful Jar...

Listen Up...

Staple Gun Wins...

To Do...

What's Next?...

Wisdom on Sorority Life...

Boots...

Kanakuk Staff Interviews...

Pumpkin Chili...

Prep Time:20 Min

Cook Time:1 Hr

Ready In:1 Hr 20 Min

Servings (Help)

Ingredients

Directions

Nutritional Information

Why Hollywood?...

One of My Heroes...

Are You Organized?...

It's Monday...

Wisdom to Pass Down...

Bahahaha...

Scotty McCreery...

Dream...

It's Okay...

Slow Down...

Love Whooooo You Are...

Sonic + Mom...

Go Play...

If I Could Go Back...

Prep Time:
20 Min

Cook Time:
1 Hr

Ready In:
1 Hr 20 Min