Lovely By M

Farewell Friends

2011-06-15T23:03:00.001-06:00

Well friends,

After 1,229 posts and 6 years of blogging, my blogging time here at Lovely by M has come to an end. Ending this blog has been something I've felt I've needed to do for some time now but its taken me a while to muster up the courage to actually do so. Six years is a hard habit to break.

I've absolutely loved and appreciated the internet friendships made, the people who have made me feel a little more sane in the not so sane moments of life, people who have related to me, shared their knowledge and their support and their kindness. I've loved receiving phone calls from my mom saying she just checked my blog and she loved.... I've loved being inspired by others lifestyles, homes, ideas, and beliefs. I've loved sharing a bit of who I am and pushing to be better. And most of all, I've loved receiving comments on my blog from my favorite commenter, my husband.

He has always supported my blogging habit because he wanted me to do something that I loved and enjoyed. Him and twig are the reason that I have kept going even though my desire and as you have probably noticed depth of posts have lessened. We have appreciated so much the support we've received for our 'lil business through this blog. It now scares me to think that those of you who support us in our venture won't receive updates if I no longer leave them here.

However, my heart has whispered to me for some time that this isn't where I need to be anymore. I no longer need to think up and plan posts, take pictures of anything and everything, measure myself up to her and her and her, re-do my header and sidebar a gazillion times, get blog envy, or even pressure update. My little family needs me more, my attention to spirituality needs me more, my desire to challenge my creativity needs me more, and our dream to live our business needs me more.

As I've wondered when I would actually take this leap and write this post, I came home from the grocery store tonight to find a little note with a "watch me" attached to the ipod. This video solidified my decision and is a beautifully perfect description of how I feel.

So friends, I thank you for letting me be me, for humoring me and visiting my space here often. I'm sure I'll still be checking in with you in your area of the www every so often.

Please don't however, forget the hubs and I over at twig. I will be blogging over there and if you liked following my blog here, please do come follow us. You will find a good mix of similar taste posts.

twigcreativeblog.blogspot.com
twig facebook

love to you all.

Mo

2011-06-15T16:23:00.000-06:00

This morning while up in her high chair, little J tapped her fingers together while saying "mo mo" and at that point, with over excitement I hollered for the hubs to come in and see. There she was, our little 16 month old signing "more"; a sign I have been diligent in using for the last 8 months or so as she has eaten solids. I never knew if she was picking up on the sign and this morning I got my answer. I then found myself scrambling to use other signs, wishing I had been more diligent with others.

So my lesson learned: Like they always say, your children listen to you more than you know and follow your example more than you realize.

She's kept up the sign all day long and I still think it's the cutest thing I've ever seen.

Childhood Dream

2011-06-14T15:50:00.000-06:00

You know what day it is! I'm over at twig talking about one of my childhood dreams and how I lived it vicariously through the library.

Sunny St. George

2011-06-14T15:10:00.000-06:00

We spent the weekend in St. George and if I've learned anything while traveling it's these few things.

Babies will never sleep as soundly away from home which also means you will be just as tired as they are.

It's refreshing to leave the camera at home and not worry about capturing every single moment. Leave it up to the hubs with his fancy iphone and just enjoy the moments in real time.

Renting a house online for the stay can be deceiving.

There is unique beauty in any place you travel.

I will always from now on put 2 babies instead of just 1 in a baby swing. Preferably chubby ones.

Hiking the red rocks will inevitably leave your shoes full of sand.

No matter the time of day or night, travel driving will make me fall asleep for long periods of time. Although I will wake up for a few seconds every so often just to stroke your arm and make sure you, the driver are still awake.

Search out the free events in the area. An outdoor movie night and a better than 7-Peaks water area rocked our weekend.

The said not-so-soundly-sleeping baby will then be off schedule for the next week or so.

Unpacking is never as fun as packing.

Going back to making dinner is hard after eating out and having meals taken care of for you. Although there is nothing like coming back to home cookin'.

I almost always need a vacation from a vacation.

Neat Receipts: A Review

2011-06-13T15:49:00.001-06:00

If you know anything about me by now, you know that I am a lover of good organization. So you can only imagine my joy when The Neat Company sent me the Neat Receipts Scanner.

Running a small business means that every aspect of that said business falls into your hands. The one part that I tend to slack on is keeping up with the accounting and inputting receipts. It's just a big task when receipts are coming in frequently and I can't possibly be hooked to the computer all day. So they inevitably land in a file until future time allows...however, I never quite seem to make adequate time for them. And you know the mess of them kills me!

So insert the Neat Receipts Scanner. This tiny little thing, so sleek and handy scans in individual receipts with the touch of a button. Up pops an image of the receipt and in enters the receipt information. Not every line on every receipt was recognized which is a slight bummer but it still beats me typing in every tidbit. This machine also allows you to export the info. into a spreadsheet which has me super duper happy. It is honestly was so easy to use, I pushed the button, walked away and had a little edamame snack in between.

I must say as well that I appreciated the packaging. It came tightly wrapped with simple instructions all labeled and written in plain terms. If I love organization, I'm going to love nice packaging and attention to detail as well ;o) I'm excited to use this for not only receipts but for J's drawings, keepsakes, documents, etc. It's basically an all around paperless organizer and I now understand why it's called Neat Receipts, for it is rather neat.

Here's to going paperless!

Internet Inspirations: Living Area

2011-06-09T20:39:00.007-06:00

I've listed my favorite internet inspirations of the week for your living area over at twig and I have to say, I want to devour image number 3, is an absolute new fave shop of mine. You must see.

Brunch Lunch Linner or Dinner

2011-06-08T08:00:00.002-06:00

As always, I'm hasty for a new recipe so I flipped through a recent Rachael Ray mag [who I'm not normally a fan of] and found this brunch treat to try. It turned out rather delicious and I love the idea of little individual servings.

Summer Entertainment

2011-06-07T10:21:00.001-06:00

I'm over on the twig blog announcing our Brightly Collection as now available in the shop, hip hip! and sharing my top 4 picks for outdoor summer entertainment.

and P.S. I just entered this giveaway for a trip to Pari', have you?

First Time Mac & Cheese

2011-06-07T06:00:00.002-06:00

Apparently it's a keeper.

I Went, I Finally Went!

2011-06-06T06:00:00.004-06:00

I rarely have a girls night out if you know what I mean because the hubs and the babe are quite perfect company but Friday night was a special night where the hubs and his brother swooped over to a matinee of the most appropriate movie for a guy's afternoon, "Fast Five" and then my sis-in-law and I whisked over the kids so that we could head over to the Rooftop Concert Series.

I've wanted to go a zillion times but not being in the local area anymore + having a little baby who goes to bed early calls for no late nights out on the town. However, the hubs knew how much I wanted to see Mindy Gledhill and he did whatever he could to make it happen.

Sarah and I left the house kind of giddy to choose whatever we wanted to eat, in which, we mentioned all the same places and were pleasantly pleased to pick up some vegetable-herb filled yummyness at Guru's and then head over to the show. Don't even worry about the 2 prime parking spots I passed up thinking we could get closer, to then circle around 3 more times and end up back over by the restaurant to walk all the way back to the concert, no don't even worry about that. It was a beautiful night and we welcomed the walk.

We cozyied into a small open area in the front; for there was no way I was heading all the way to the super packed back of the roof top, and the pictures tell the rest....

Mindy sings just as dreamily as she does on her album + is gorgeous, Ryan Innes was a new to me + folksy awesome singer, and Meagan Smith told humorous stories through her soulful & captivating voice. And I must say, I thought it was amazingly cool that a small group of local people made all that happen.

Revived was the feeling of the night. Sometimes it's good to get out and do something that you really love and that you really admire. Mindy mentioned that her family is the reason she's able to do what she loves and I jotted that in my mental notebook. I want to do better at being the reason my family can express their talents, their passions, and their goodness.

Who's with me for the next concert?

Roof Top Concert Series, Dos

2011-06-03T14:20:00.001-06:00

It's tonight and after wanting to see Mindy for ages, I might actually get to go this time! Be there or really miss out, did you see the pictures from the last concert?

Rooftop Concert Series

Hair

2011-06-02T20:58:00.000-06:00

I need some serious hair help! I've had the same old hair style for probably 7 years now. Even when I do try a new cut, I wait too long for a trim and it grows out to that old familiar style that gets me desperate for a new do. Remember when I went to Cat and let her work her magic? Well I loved it but somehow it's now back to its regular old self. Did I mention I wait too long? I'm considering getting the same cut Cat gave me before but in the end just need something cute + low maintenance [because I'm all too friendly with the hair tie] + hip. Oh did I also mention I have to wrap that hair tie around my thin thin hair about 5 times? Yep, so what do ya do with thin hair? I still don't know? Suggestions, pictures, requests?

[picture 1 = typical hair day, straight down, bangs to the side,
picture 2 = when i obviously cut my own bangs,
picture 3 = hair obviously done by a professional]

Dancing & Fries

2011-06-02T09:02:00.001-06:00

Some days J is a little sad. She's too tired but not sleeping, she's a little sensitive, and a little too particular. To add to the sadness, I don't always know what she wants. It makes a mom feel a little helpless. So tonight while dad was away, we turned on a little Louis Armstrong, she shimmied back and forth as she does so well while watching her mama dance in the kitchen playing an air trumpet. I gave lots of kisses and I love you's in between her bowl whisking and my sweet potato fry making and instead of trying to understand each other, we just spent time together.

Recipe here.

+ I've over at Twig talking about one of our favorite things to do in the city.

Rice Bags

2011-06-01T06:00:00.000-06:00

I hadn't thought how much J would love playing with bean bags until she snagged some from the church library and held onto them throughout its entirety. I did however think about all the germs that were most likely seeped into the very old & worn fabric!

As you know I have those good old scraps of fabric, you know the ones you constantly see on here. Really I should be posting 101 ways to use the same few scraps of fabric you have lying around... So I put in a few stitches, made a homemade funnel out of paper and instead of running to the store for beans, used rice that I had in the cupboard already. They were an instant hit. However getting the babes to hold still while I snapped a few pictures, that's a different story, they're just too fun to shake.

Mental Note- It's the simple and most often homemade toys that kids like best.

What homemade toys have you made that your kids love?

Husband & Wife Means

2011-05-31T20:25:00.001-06:00

Taking the little babe out to the playground and whilst she watches the neighbor kids run around playing tag; we talk about our favorite childhood games, kickball, steal the flag, kick the can, freeze tag...

Oh to be young again.

Just for Kicks

2011-05-31T10:08:00.000-06:00

Click on over to the twig blog to see what kind of kicks I'm talking about!

Curls

2011-05-27T06:00:00.001-06:00

J Luce gets a lot of compliments when we go out, not only because she smiles showing those little white teeth and those bright eyes while saying hi-ya; but also because she's got this head of curly curls. Several have told me that she'll hate them when she's young and love them when she's old. I secretly hope she loves them young and old.

Have also been thinking that she and he should get together. A perfect match.

Knick & Knack

2011-05-26T13:33:00.000-06:00

You know those stores you often pass that grab your interest but you just never really have the need to stop? Well there have been two I've been eyeing for some time now and the babes and I finally stopped in today. The first was Home Again and the second was Black Goose Design.

The shops were both housed in great old buildings, bold colored furniture, antique knickknacks, and a whole lot of charm. However I have to remember that I can easily + love the challenge of picking up similar chairs from the local thrift store or yard sale and refinish them just as prettily. It's really the pop of turquoise and yellow and red and green and blue that catches my attention in the first place. There were some really unique textiles that I would have loved to pick up though and a most perfect rocking chair that I'm still thinking about.

And don't you worry, I took some real quality phone pictures to share with you *wink.

Co-ink-e-dink

2011-05-25T02:00:00.000-06:00

Produce Bags

2011-05-25T01:00:00.000-06:00

I've gotten a lot of compliments on my re-usable produce bags while grocery shopping and thought I might as well share the love. My sis-in-law actually gave me these for my birthday last year which was fabulous. I love gifts that are unexpected but that are so you + functional.

It was ironic because around the same time I had been thinking about how much I loved my re-usable grocery bags and wondered how I could better utilize produce bags. They seemed like such a waste but yet I needed to put my fruit and veggies in something. These then showed up in my mailbox and its been bliss ever since. I love that the package comes with 3 different sized bags for varied needs. It's funny because I often hear people whispering to their shopping mate on how cool the bags are!

I also changed up my grocery bags after the possible lead poisoning scare that arose in the re-usable grocery bags you often see around grocery stores. I loved ours for their big size but it was either wash them for cleanliness or get possible lead poisoning from the colored graphic on front...??? So I went to my local craft store and bought large cloth bags that are easily washable, all natural fibers, and have pockets in the front for my produce bags, my grocery list, and my coupons, win win!

Lately

2011-05-24T08:55:00.000-06:00

I snapped this picture while very quickly making a couple of returns at the outdoor mall in my area. Was drawn in by the Anthropologie & Urban Outfitters sales but didn't have time to look around. Thank goodness the window displays are just as pretty & intriguing to look at.

I've been reading The Help and just found out the movie comes out in August!

Have felt like their is so much internet inspiration and not enough time to drink it all in. Particularly love the pickings all the time of Ali Loves Curtis and Annilygreen.

The rain rain rain has made us feel like we live in Oregon. I think we've come to grips that spring has surpassed and now we're just hoping for a summer.

The hubs came home yesterday with a big box of costco mangos, strawberry's, raspberry's, and edamame. Here's to beginning our sugar fast. We need a little body rejuvination.

J Luce has begun giving open mouthed sometimes licking kisses on the cheek again. Her bashful smile and giggle afterward and then wanting to give another is irresistible.

Made this recipe with the modification of skipping the rice and placing within lettuce wraps topped with shredded carrot instead. A nice twist on a favorite dish.

For You

2011-05-24T08:00:00.001-06:00

I'm over on the twig blog talking about a little gift we received in the mail and why it's so cool.

Almond & Peanut Butter

2011-05-23T09:45:00.001-06:00

After seeing this post on almond butter, I was determined to make some that afternoon. However, my almond stash wasn't as large as I thought it was and so I threw in some peanuts too...[that I bought last week out of the dry roasted bin only to come home and find that they were just plain 'ol peanuts with not even an ounce of flavor, ick]. Also however, I just checked the recipe again and realized that I didn't roast my almonds like it says to do in the first step...so I think I'll try this one again with a) an adequate amount of almonds and b) by following the actual recipe! However for the third time, I'm liking this idea and think I will become a permanent almond/peanut butter maker. No more store bought when it's this easy.

[Recommending]
101 Cookbooks

Perfect Parfait

2011-05-19T09:37:00.001-06:00

As if I don't post pictures of my homemade granola enough, here are some more [*insert smile icon]. However, thanks to some ripe red raspberry's we picked up from Costco + a little Giada at home watching, the hubs conjured up a parfait for an after dinner treat using the thus said granola. Equal parts of granola, french vanilla yogurt, and raspberry's.

These are the types of snacks that I would almost any day choose over something sugary like a chocolate cake. It's so much more satisfying, healthy, and delicious to my body. So I made a mental note to remember this; that not all "treats" have to be something with loaded sugar + fat. That's one reason I love to whip up smoothies; the natural fruit sugars are just as tasty as a cup of ice cream.

[*My granola recipe = 4 cups oats, 2/3 cup honey, 1/3 cup applesauce, nuts + coconut as desired, mix all together and bake until desired crispness at 300 degrees in oven.]

P.S. Head on over to the twig blog for the giveaway winner + announcement of the local event happening this weekend!

The Human Experience

2011-05-18T09:43:00.000-06:00

The other night we watched a documentary that made my heart so full I wanted to go save the world instead of lie down in bed. I often have the urge to do more, to make a big difference, but don't know where to start. It's inspiring to learn that people are doing, are helping, are reaching out.

Child abuse has been on my mind a lot lately. I want to know how to educate people, steer them away from this tragedy. I wrote a letter to my family & friends last summer titled "cotton thoughts" after having seen a worn out and angry mother forcefully and somewhat carelessly direct her children in the grocery store. One little girl looked like she had a burn in between her eyes and she cried saying she was hungry. I then stepped out of my bubble and the twirling fear inside my stomach and handed her a piece of bread from the loaf I was waiting to buy. I tried to chat with the mother which helped also calm her children but when they left and I left, I wondered what was next for them.

This event opened my eyes to several other pivotal events throughout the week that then beautifully formed words onto paper and I recognized not only the heartbreak of the world, but the hope.

As I yearn to reach out I also realize that starting within my own home and family is a big step in itself. Learning to teach and praise and raise a child(ren) is but its own feat and something to be proud of. It still doesn't stop the want and the desire to help those less fortunate and those who just don't know better, or those that do.

How do you help? How do you impact, share, teach, love?

Internet Inspirations

2011-05-17T09:13:00.002-06:00

I'm over at twig today sharing some of my favorite internet inspirations of the week.

And don't forget today is the last day to enter the big twig giveaway!

Nearly Perfect

2011-05-16T10:25:00.000-06:00

Friday:
Warm & sunny, literally played outside all day. Walks around the neighborhood, playground time, J crawling up and down the levels, pushing bark through the bars of the play set walls, blowing bubbles, kicking ball, first sunburn of the season on my white white skin!

Frogurt Yogurt, fill your cup with any flavor you desire with a few toppings to boot, sat outside and licked our bowls clean, to old navy for a summer hat for the babe, over to barnes & noble to comfy up in the kids section and read some books and then home to make some shrimp pasta.

Saturday:
German pancakes with fresh mango.

To mom & dad's house to help put together a swing set, afternoon pizza, outside time + lots of kids running and playing.

Spontaneous drive to the canyon, water rushing, cool breeze, blue skies.

Watched UP while eating a homemade smoothie + apple banana streusel.

Sunday:
Morning walk in the sunshine, J peered over the side of the stroller to watch the wheels turn.

To my parents church to hear my little brother give a mission farewell talk. Was so proud of him. Family + friends gathering and lots and lots of food. Family pictures. Sitting around talking, playing, seeing how far J could walk from him to her and her to him.

Spontaneous drive up to the city on the way home. Were all sleepy. Bath time for the babe, bed time for the babe. A little scripture reading, a little watching of the apprentice and then bed time for the hubs and I.

Was a nearly perfect weekend.

A Weekend Giveaway

2011-05-13T12:33:00.000-06:00

It's too sunny & warm here to blog so we're goin' out to the playground but just wanted to let you in on a grand opening celebration over at the twig blog.

One giveaway + 4 items to giveaway!

Enter here.

Happy Weekending!

Beehive Bazaar

2011-05-12T14:31:00.000-06:00

I'm over on the twig blog today giving a re-cap of last weekend's Beehive Bazaar!

Viva-Las-Vegas

2011-05-11T08:18:00.000-06:00

I want those floral lamp shades so bad!

Loved all the swirly whimsical details.

The frozen hot chocolate = heaven. It was sipped up in a second!

My veggie burger couldn't have looked better with this little ditty.

Scrunchies at H&M, do tell are they really back???

Hi Friends!

I've been away and the $13 wi-fi charge in the hotel didn't sway me enough to blog. I think the hubs and I embarked on the busiest + craziest week we've ever experienced last week and it ended with us making the drive sans baby to Vegas for an inventors convention hosted by his work.

We sure had a lot of excitement last week between graduations + markets + family visiting + traveling but we are sure glad now to be home in our own bed and house.

So, catch up here?

A few pics from viva la vegas--favorite moments = seeing AJ Khubani, Eating at Serendipity & documenting all my favorite details of the restaurant, Browsing & Buying from H&M, the classic Bellagio water show...a giveaway if you hadn't already noticed...and an update on the twig blog...because I missed Tuesday, so we'll do Wednesday and Friday this week!

Blossoms, Warmth, & Family

2011-05-06T10:53:00.000-06:00

We've had a whole lot of reasons to celebrate around here. Family graduations, family visiting, family gatherings, family, family, family! So whilst in the city yesterday at one of our celebrations, enjoying our first real warm spring day, I looked around, snapped a few pictures, and said the word gorgeous [in description of the weather] probably about 20 times.

And I bought J her first pair of real shoes yesterday! They are so cute I can hardly stand it. Hopefully they'll motivate her more to walk on her own!

Brightly Collection & a Bright Event

2011-05-05T08:47:00.000-06:00

I'm over at Twig showing our newest item that can only be found right now at the Beehive Bazaar!

P.S. The Beehive Bazaar starts this morning!

P.S.S. The twig blog now links through our website artist's corner!

Baked a Zillion Different Ways

2011-05-04T09:01:00.000-06:00

It made my day when mama boss sent me a message letting me know that even after 2 years of posting about these cookies, she's still using the recipe! However, she got rather creative with the mix which is exactly why I love these super cinch cookies because you can spice them up in any way you desire.

So with the reminder, I decided to whip some up as well and pull out whatever I had in my cupboards to add to the dough. I absolutely loved the look of her sprinkles but since I didn't have any, I went for the classic powdered sugar, coconut, and almond bits.

I must say, they were rather tasty and even better for wrapping up and delivering to the neighbors. I must also say, they'd be perfect for an afternoon treat today.

P.S. Since getting a baking mat, I can't bake cookies without it. It allows them to bake to perfection and I no longer end up with flat burnt cookies as I did on a normal sheet sprayed with cooking spray.

On the Crafting Counter

2011-05-03T14:44:00.000-06:00

The Beehive Bazaar is this weekend ya know...so why not at the last minute decide to add a whole new line of earrings to the stock? Why not?

And don't forget that the Roof Top Concert Series also starts this weekend. It's the Fictionist! [that deserves 3 !!!] Read updated details here.

Artist's Corner

2011-05-03T08:41:00.000-06:00

It's Tuesday!

I'm over at the Twig blog sharing an artist feature: Wendy from Moop Bags.

Have you seen the bags? Sturdy + Beautiful. Want one.

Saw & Snapped

2011-05-02T10:11:00.000-06:00

Scenes from the weekend.

Got the rain boots out but ended up needing snow boots. We're getting rather upset at this non-spring weather. A winter wonderland is what we got instead! Couldn't quite believe our eyes. Is it really May? Please Spring come, please!

Baby girl's egg art installation. She was so proud of her work. It takes a lot for a non-walking little gal to pick up an egg off the floor--lift up--balance--okay keep balancing--put egg on entertainment center--ooh pretty--put them all on--and then mom thinks the work is so fabulous she snaps a picture.

My failing strawberry plant. Doesn't help that we get absolutely no direct sunlight in our windows...and I guess that I forget to water it daily...oops. Hoping I see some green from it soon.

My bright necklace collection. I look at them more than wear them, but I like to walk past its dangles and glance over at its colorfulness.

In other weekend notes, a graduation + lots of family time + a card game + beatles rock band + sonic + a movie + reading a new book.

Twig Blahg

2011-04-28T14:25:00.000-06:00

Hi Friends,

Big Twig news here, we're a bloggin'! See you can't have a website, a twitter page, and a facebook page without a blog right. It's just not savvy these days. So here she is!

Every Tuesday and Thursday I'll be writing over at Twig and so I'll direct you over there from here. Hope you'll come visit and follow us as we share posts about good design and twig happenings.

Today I'm writing on product packaging and let me tell you, there is some really pretty packaging out there. Don't you love when you keep a box or a sack just because it's cool? Sometimes I keep them for years before finally realizing that it's time to part!

Mishap

2011-04-27T15:01:00.001-06:00

Remember these lovely prints?

Well I pushed print 6 please and walked away from the printer, only to find that a little mishap dotted itself on each and every one.

However, if you were planning to frame the beauty, you would never know that there was a little dotted line on the right hand side of the print.

So, want one of these mishaps for a super good deal?...because really I'm not sure that framing 6 of these on one wall would look that great...but I do LOVE my 1 displayed on our shelf.

They ran for $10.00 but we offered them for $5.00 during the Love Out Loud series and so I'll honor that deal and offer them for $3.00 + shipping now.

Email or comment if interested!

Latkes + a Review

2011-04-27T09:58:00.001-06:00

The CSN All Modern website kindly gave me a little spending money to use on their site. I must admit, I was completely overwhelmed as their is SO much to look at but I found that searching for a specific item greatly increased the ease.

I decided to search for a couple of kitchen tools that are missing from our collection and this cobalt blue lecreuset dish won me over. I realized that we don't have any pretty serving dishes beyond normal plates & bowls and especially don't have something that serves as both a baking dish and a serving platter. This last element was key.

So I ordered and in nearly a week, a box arrived at my door! The dish is not only a beautiful color but is the perfect size for my little family of 3. I knew right then that the first dish made in the new lecreuset would most likely be potatoes. And so it was.

Last night I decided to side our fresh strawberry banana with french vanilla yogurt crepes with a potato carrot latke recipe that I ripped from a Martha magazine years ago. Don't you love when those recipes you save for years and years finally make a showing?!

Because a latke isn't so easy for the little babes to grasp in her fingers and make to her mouth, she got a special helping of diced potatoes and carrots made in the new cobalt blue. I loved the thought that if I would have been taking that meal to someone, it could have stayed in the fancy dish!

But back to the latkes, I followed this simple recipe and we loved the outcome. The great part about latkes is that you can mix in several different vegetables and increase nutrient value but still keep that delicious potato flavor [for picky eaters]. We've tried them with shredded zucchini and squash as well.

So maybe you should schedule in some breakfast for dinner soon too!

Most Days are a Grilled Cheese Kind of Day

2011-04-26T09:33:00.000-06:00

Around here, some days are exciting with music class, projects, lunch dates, visits to the hubs, shopping, etc. But most days are just good 'ol grilled cheese days where we stay in and watch the rain drizzle down our window....and research answers for all the questions I've had on my mind lately. The last couple of weeks: How long do opened packages of food last in the fridge? I'm sharing my research here and please do correct these or answer more fully in the comments below!

How long do these foods last in the fridge after having been opened?
Thawed Chicken: 24 hours
Chicken Broth: 1-2 days; Frozen 3-4 months
Baby Food: 1-3 days
Homemade Soup: 2-4 days
Cooked Couscous: 3 days
Quiche: 3-4 days
Cooked Rice: 3-4 days
Cooked or Uncooked Veggies: 3-5 days
Cooked Chicken: 4 days
Deli Meats: 4 days
Pasta Sauce: 5 days
Bacon: 5-7 days
Cooked Pasta: 7 days
Cheese: 1-4 weeks
Eggs: 3-5 weeks [*tip, store in the back of the fridge where it is cooler. they will spoil less quickly.]
Salad Dressing: 1 month
Salsa: 1 month
Mayo: 2 months
Ketchup, Jam, Peanut Butter: 6 months
Mustard, Soy Sauce, & Like Condiments: One year

I also learned more on this Flour Shelf Life site than I ever knew!

Roof Top Concert Series, An Introduction

2011-04-26T08:31:00.001-06:00

I have joined in this local artist effort [although I'm not exactly local] in spreading the word about the return of the roof top concert series! I joined in on this sharing of info. because a] there's nothing more that I like than a good concert, outdoors under the moon surrounded by a crowd of fellow music lovers and b] i dream that events like this will continue to not only happen but make us feel like we live in a beautiful good world all the time.

The line up is stellar this year...and I mean STELLAR. The first show should be luring enough. Find all the deets about this year's concerts here:

Concert Series Website

Concert Series Facebook

Giveaway Winner from For the Easily Distracted

2011-04-26T08:18:00.000-06:00

#28 via random.org, Ingrid!
Check your email.

Loved hearing what you would all take pictures of at the moment. Sounds like most of you are enjoying lovely weather or cute pets or eye catching sunsets. Sure wish it would perk up and look/feel a little more like spring around here!

Holding Hands

2011-04-25T13:31:00.005-06:00

The long awaited weekend finally came and we dropped the little babe off with my parents to enjoy one of their Christmas gifts to us. A night in Park City sans baby. They're the best gift givers. We were so excited for Park City that last week felt like a month in waiting.

It was glorious. Hot tub + Restaurant eating + Movie [2 thumbs up to Water for Elephants] + Outlet shopping + Best companion + Good talking + Late night t.v. watching [and barely being able to stay awake...we're old] + Front desk cookies + Mountain air. It was a nice change to not have to live by a baby's schedule and to just have some me + him time. We held hands as much as possible while walking around; had forgotten that that just isn't possible anymore with a baby that requires 2 hands to hold and a diaper bag and the keys and the sippy cup and the.... However we did miss that little chubs of ours, although she had the time of her life with her grandparents and did just fine without us!

The weekend closed with a lovely Easter dinner with family and an egg hunt in my grandmother's beautiful backyard. It was a magical sight to me. Long grass, little white picket fence, tulips, blossom trees, bright eggs, and happy kids running all around. I sure love moments like these.

Hippity-Hop

2011-04-22T08:58:00.002-06:00

[I don't know if J or I gets more excited when dad comes home with gifts?]

This is our shout out of Happy Easter to you!

We're up for an extra special weekend, lots of picture details to come!

Favorite Easter links:

An Easter Declaration

Rice Krispie Easter Egg Treats

Easter Decorations
Gorgeous Easter Eggs

And, don't forget, the giveaway from For The Easily Distracted closes on Monday!

Much Less Boring

2011-04-20T16:38:00.003-06:00

The afternoon told me to create and this is what she led me to do...
[and p.s. the last who knows how many afternoons have led the hubs to this. Gosh just when I thought his website was stellar, it gets stellar-er!]

Yep it's those same old fabric scraps again...

Thank you Forever 21 for $3.50 Tees.

Liked this pattern...

But then decided on this one.

First sewed a straight line but then that old zig zag won me over.

Maybe should have stuck with the straight stitch???


And the photo booth gives it a 2 thumbs up.

Giveaway from For the Easily Distracted

2011-04-20T07:34:00.001-06:00

Who: For the Easily Distracted. Rhianne joined in a giveaway here on lovely quite some time ago and now she's back! I absolutely love the whimsy of her photography and she just recently listed a new line of black & white photos that are even more dreamy. She also blogs about daily life with a camera in hand here.

Giving: An 8x8 or 8x10 Photo Print of the Winner's Choice!

How: Take a stroll around Rhianne's shop here and then leave a comment on this post telling me what you would snap a picture of today. [non-bloggers please leave your email] by the end of Monday April 25th.

Extra Entry [in a separate comment]: Blog about this giveaway and link back here.

[images via Rhianne's Shop]

*Disclaimer: Being a handmade artist myself, I like to host giveaways to share some of my favorite handmade shops and of course support the handmade movement. I hope you will too support this handmade artist by truly visiting and hopefully purchasing something from their shop, not to mention sharing the love through your own social networks. Thank you for entering my giveaways and in turn helping us handmade artists do what we love.

Thoughts in a Random Sort of Way

2011-04-19T16:39:00.001-06:00

When I was in college, my roomie Liz made a "Cowboy Caviar" for us all to snack on. Actually I'm sure she made it as a snack for herself but she was too nice and all the roomies devoured it. At that time, I wouldn't have even thought of asking for the recipe or attempting to make it. That's just who I was back then. I thought that anything with a list of ingredients was too difficult for me. I shied away from anything of the sort.

This afternoon I made that cowboy caviar and paired it with some artisan chips. Absolutely delicious and the cream on the cake to my craving.

It also paired nicely to my day of thought and meditation [having made me remember that past memory you see].

While the hubs got ready for work this morning, I ran down to the complex gym for a quick workout before the babe awoke. I decided to unplug and not take my ipod but instead focus on thought. I used to "meditate" quite a bit when I was in college. It seemed to help me re-focus, renew creativity, and write more freely.

So I walked up a fake hill this morning while thinking. It's awesome where your thoughts go when you allow them. It's also awesome what you remember and feel when you let them. And it's awesome to sometimes just step back and not feel like I have to multi-task. [I'm walking and thinking, that's all I'm doing right now.]

A good friend and his wife had their first baby this morning, reading the welcome baby email sent a flood of my own birthing experience memories back. Chills and surrealism.

While searching for a granola recipe on my blog, I came across this post. And it once again fit in with my theme of the day, meditation, even rightly titled.

I wrote moment to moment images so well. Where has my will to express and jot gone to?

I like to peruse progression. I like to know that I've progressed and that while stuck in my own thoughts I can find that progression.

It seems today I may have gotten somewhere. Maybe not so practiced in the art of meditation anymore, but not so shy to carve out those oily green avocados while following a long list.

Color & Nutrients

2011-04-18T08:11:00.003-06:00

This morning I woke up on a cooking kick. Rain is drizzling on the windows outside and I want to make something yummy to greet the hubs home from work. Any suggestions?

A few weeks ago I was on a similar kick, muffin pan rolls for the neighbors [my new fave idea, put dough for rolls in a muffin tin and bake! perfection], homemade granola, steamed veggies, tried & true recipes...

It's just a nice feeling to get in the kitchen and bake and fill the house with a sweet aroma and have something delicious to snack on in the end.

Since sickness hit us in the last couple of weeks, we reflected on our health. We thought about how many times we've gotten sick this last year and how we could possibly dodge any more sickness by adding in more fruits and veggies into our diet. Our main ideas have been to remember to 1- add vegetables into dishes like spaghetti. Blending them into the sauce or simply adding them into the dish. A super simple dish to add whatever and how ever much. Also, 2- smoothies. We LOVE smoothies and probably make them at least 2-3 times a week. They normally consist of yogurt, milk, frozen peaches, frozen blueberrys, fresh strawberrys, fresh bananas, or fresh orange. 4- Eating out less. Our favorite form of entertainment is eating at a favorite and most delicious restaurant. However we realize that this can break the bank and most often can lead to overeating. So remembering that a homemade meal can be just as satisfying is key. And lastly 3- homemade baby food for J Luce. Although she is quite at the age of eating solids, she still likes certain mashed up foods and we've just realized how much more cost effective + nutritious homemade baby food is. We have a magic bullet which makes it super simple to blend up a small amount perfect for her meal.

Would love to know, how do you avoid sickness and add necessary nutrients into your daily meals?

Pulling instead of Being Pulled

2011-04-15T13:52:00.002-06:00

Just because...

[I can't quite get over J's cute chubby knees peeking out from her ruffly dress and leg warmers!]

Getting Out

2011-04-13T10:09:00.000-06:00

What to do when you're a bunch of recovering sicklings and are absolutely tired of your 2 bedroom apartment + cold rainy weather outside? You take a drive into the city and visit the local library; that is actually more like an art museum to me. You read books in the children's forts, walk along the roof top gardens, watch the buzzing bees in the beehive, and view the buildings architecture from the glass elevators.

[Recommending]
White Elephant Vintage

Market Bijou

2011-04-12T12:34:00.000-06:00

Bijou bijou, always a hip happening event. I must admit I was super stoked to take little J and just hang out down town + at the market all weekend but once again sickness hit us just in time to cancel those plans. Luckily, I spared most of the illness and just needed to take care of the hubs and babes instead of last time when it hit both Steve and I and we couldn't even attend our event. So once again, parents came to the rescue in helping out with the take down and gathering up of our display. We're beginning to think they deserve a commission!

However, I was able to visit Bijou twice on Friday and enjoy the buzz of handmade. I am seriously blown away every time we attend/participate in a market. There is so much crazy talent and ingeniousness floating around.

It was a rainy rainy weekend and we didn't seem to improve in the sickness department as the weekend prevailed but we're hoping for a quick recovery this week so that we can prepare for market #2 this weekend!

P.S. Were you at the market and I missed you? I'd LOVE to know! I noticed some fave bloggers facebooked about attending and I was sad to have missed you.

Sweet Pea Benefit Boutique

2011-04-12T11:49:00.001-06:00

Today, we're super stoked to be involved in a good cause. We've donated one of Twig's brand spankin' new anaPad's to the Sweet Pea Benefit Boutique. This boutique is benefiting two women who have struggled with infertility.

This struggle has come close to my heart in the last few years as the neighborhood we lived in when we first got married seemed to be a circle of women with this same trial. These women became my friends and watching their heartache, hearing their stories, and then also watching the joy of adoption; has opened my eyes to the difficulty of this problem as well as the miracles.

I've just browsed the site and the boutique offers a whole bunch of goodies up for auction. You simply comment with a price on an item that you want and the highest bidder will be contacted this Friday the 15th. So I'd say keep a close watch on that thing you want 'cuz you never know who will give the best bid!!!

Sweet Pea Benefit Boutique Blog

Bid on our anaPad Here

Husband & Wife Means

2011-04-09T21:31:00.000-06:00

When your husband is sick in bed all day and you finally get the baby tucked in for the night and can go in and spend some time with him, you realize how much you've missed him; even just from the other room.

Setting Up Shop...at a Local Market

2011-04-08T06:42:00.001-06:00

Guess where we're at today??? The Bijou Market!

It's begun, the market season...and we're booked for the next 4 weeks peddling our goods and wishing we had more time to sign up for the other 3 or 4 that are around these parts. Oh but it's completely exhausting + exhilarating to be involved in local markets where I can barely focus during set up time because my eyes are wandering to all the pretty goods being hung and draped around us.

I must say, our display is killer this year. Just thinking about it I get the chills. We really pumped it up a notch and it's all because we learned several key tips from the 2 markets we were involved in last year. So, today I'm focusing on our top tips for preparing for a local market and for those who aren't shop owners, a few tips for shoppers of local markets.

Hope to see you at Bijou this weekend...and a special thanks to Scoutie Girl for interviewing us yesterday and here's the direct link to my guest post over on the Grocery Shrink today!

Top Tips:
1- Prepare early. You receive a yes or no on entrance into a market at least a month or so before the show so use that time to slowly get everything ready. This will greatly decrease your stress, believe me! Their are always last minute needs and so if you're not worrying about those + your stock, you'll be a happier camper.

At our last market I heard of several people pulling all-nighters to get everything done; that just wouldn't work for us. I would be a mess and I would worry about forgetting important details. Make a list of all that needs to be done and in the weeks following up to the market, cross them off. A list is my life saver because preparing for a market includes little details like: business cards, table cloth, display items, product bags, vendor labeling, inventory list, etc. + whatever that specific market requires of you.

Preparing early then leaves time for you to look over your items and make any necessary changes or improvements. Because we prepared early, I was able to then add another 20 necklaces to my stock because I had the time + the time to mulitply resources.

2- Practice your display. This was our biggest mistake last year. You think that you can just pull all of your items together and that they will work but we learned that that isn't always the case. Our vase wasn't sturdy enough to hold our twigs, our prints didn't hang like we expected, our earrings snagged on the basket they were put in, all of our necklaces tangled into one huge knot.... It was just plain old frustrating and we felt a bit foolish showing up to our first market and then have it all crash down before it even started! However, we pulled it together but it wasn't the most eye catching display or the most well put together set up.

This year, we built a sturdier display; something that could hold all of the necessary components and something that would catch the eye of the shopper. We then, literally put every item on the display right down to placing our prints in their letter trays. It may seem silly but it is oh so necessary. We know now that it will work, that it will hold up, and that our set up will be a breeze.

3- Label/pack your items well. In the last picture shown above, I show the items I used to label our product last year. They turned out to be a doozy. The small rectangular stickers that I thought were quite attractive just didn't stick to our paper tags and several items lost not only their price but their vendor number. Our tags were okay but you can't always count on a tied on tag to stay tied.

Also, we chose to hang all of our necklaces...but you know what happens to a bunch of necklaces hung that several people are thumbing through? Tangles, tangles, and more tangles. When they take off several at a time to get to the one in the back, they get all tangled and then they are frustrated, the people after them are frustrated, and you might lose a sale.

So this year, we went with normal envelope labels that stick strongly to a plastic bag. We wrapped them around the edge for added strength and packaged up all of our goods. I still have yet to find out if the package gives people enough visual of the item; but with several hanging up on the display as examples, I think it should work out just fine.

Knowing how to display and make readily available your items is probably the hardest part of being involved in a market.

4- Odds & Ends. Create an inventory list and add/delete items as needed right before the show (sometimes you sell something online that you had originally added into your show stock). An inventory list is key as you can compare it to the end of the market sale list and make sure all was accounted for. Write in the name of the item, the quantity, and the price.

Pull out a box the week of the market and over time add the items you need to remember to take. If you do this right before the show, you're bound to forget something. I left mine out on my kitchen table the week of and went back several times with forgotten items.

Grab a large ziploc bag and add to it items such as clothespins, wire, tape, a permanent marker, extra labels, and scissors. You never know what you might need when setting up your display!

Lastly, just make it you. Your not just selling your items, your selling a look and a lure to get shoppers over to your table, so make your display a statement of your shop and your craft. It really is a high to be involved in a local market. You are surrounded by so much inspiration and craftiness and it's awesome to be complimented and valued for your work. You also get to meet so many wonderful people.

Tips to Shoppers:
1- Be kind and rewind. Meaning, if you take an item from a table but then decide you no longer want it, don't just leave it on the current table in front of you, return it to the table it came from. It's always confusing to buyers when a certain table gets filled with odd items from other tables.

2- Recognize all the work. Realize that you're not just paying for the product, you are paying for all of the time spent brainstorming, creating it, packaging it, labeling it, and displaying it. One of a kind items are really close to the heart of the artist and sometimes hard to even give up...so recognize all of the work that goes into it.

3- Business Cards. I used to just kind of collect business cards from tables because they were pretty or I thought that I would maybe check out their site but now I am much more cautious. If I know that I won't visit their site, I don't take a card. That is money right there. For us it is also time, because we create, print, and cut our own cards. Business cards are sadly kind of thrown around and trashed all too often but realize that that shop owner paid for that card and they want you to use it for what its original purpose, to visit their site and remember them.

And lastly, you're what makes the artist. So give compliments, feed back, and make custom requests. A shop is nothing without its fans and so in the end all appreciation comes back to you!

Clean Lines

2011-04-07T08:30:00.002-06:00

Tomorrow I'll be guest posting over on the Grocery Shrink about cleanliness and staying organized. I realized I must be passionate about the subject, I just kept writing and writing! So speaking of cleanliness, check out these clean lines from the platform bed the hubs made for us. I knew after this post, you wanted to see.

Perfect for storing my night time cough drops!

I don't quite know how he did it because one minute he was talking about it and then the next he was hammering and nailing and painting and after 2 Saturdays, it was done! I love the fact that most of our furniture is now a beautiful result of my husband's talents. 2 coffee tables, J Luce's crib, and now our bed. Want an original bed design? My man's, your man.

Keep That Sun a Shinin'

2011-04-06T08:54:00.000-06:00

For the one sided print, I added a solid piece of fabric to the back.

Zig-Zag Stitch, My Fave!

A little red thread to spice it up.

So we had a little problem, that bright sun kept shining in at little J causing her to fuss and rub her eyes. I tried to find a good window shade and came home with one that read in big black and yellow letters "Baby on Board!" I couldn't do it friends, I just couldn't drive around with that thing on my windows! I mean I'm just not that loud of a person ya know.

That's when creative intervention came in. However I realize it's not everyone's cup of tea because some might not like the idea of a piece of fabric hanging in their window and it's not as see through as the shades sold in stores, but it is small enough to see around and I used a light more see through fabric for safe driving purposes.

So, I cut out a rectangle piece of light fabric, zig-zagged around the edges, poked 2 holes in the top and hung it with plastic stick to glass hooks. Now that I've tested it out, I would suggest also hanging the hooks on the bottom of the fabric as well for when the wind blows it up when you open the door it's sometimes hard to get the door shut without it blowing up and out!

We seem to like it so far and we can tell that sun to keep on shinin' without any fuss or eye rubs.

Jewelry Making Afternoon

2011-04-05T13:11:00.000-06:00

Last week my cute little niece was wearing some earrings and bobby pins that I made for her. I commented on how cute they looked and she then asked if I could teach her how to make some earrings of her own. I said of course and we decided to make a girls afternoon of it.

So my mom hosted myself, J Luce, my sister-in-laws, and their daughters and we had a little jewelry making afternoon! It was followed by a delicious croissant sandwich, fruit, and cookies lunch and girl talk of course.

The little girls were so cute and excited. They each made about 8 pairs of earrings and several bracelets! For the yet to have pierced ears girls, we used clip on earrings instead.

Now I was going to take pictures and make you an earring tutorial to follow, but we're dealing with our very first round of a throw uppy baby [feeling lucky however that this is a first at 14 months!]...so poor little J needs some extra love today...but I'll leave you with a few of my tips + a tutorial link that is basically what mine would have looked like anyway!

*My Tips: 1- Did you notice the towel in all of my pictures above? It's not the most beautiful setting for jewelry or for pictures but it is my number 1 tip when making jewelry. Spread out a towel and pour your beads out onto it. This allows you to see what you have and not worry about beads rolling all around. 2- For little ones, putting a small strip of tape on the end of a bracelet wire allows them to string on beads without having to hold the other loose end. Just pull off the tape when ready to tie the stretchy band together. 3- Favorite place to buy buttons that do not have the typical holes in the front = Joann's Fabric & Craft or Michaels Craft. Favorite place to buy flat beads that can be made into earrings or beads for bracelet making = Michaels craft.

*Tutorial:
How to make vintage post earrings via A Life Through the Lens on Marta Writes
[side note, i use jewelry glue instead of a glue gun]

Creatively Dating Your Spouse

2011-04-04T13:28:00.001-06:00

Sometimes when you've been married for a while or when you bring a little kiddo into the picture, dating doesn't always happen...or better said, happen the way it used to. It used to mean an actual getting ready, going out, most likely spending money, coming home late la dee dah. But now we like to throw the word creativity into the mix.

I've mentioned it before but the hubs is the most clever person I know. He spices up the mundane, has tricks and ideas up his sleeve, and never fails to surprise me.

So on Friday afternoon he pulled out some cleverness and it =ed this bit of creative dating that I'm talking about.

Three cards numbered 1-3 with my choice of any of them or what was inside his pocket. I chose his pocket, but don't do that, you'll just get used chapstick, choose a number... ;o) So I chose number 2 and you know what it was??? A stroll over to the local village of shops. Yay! Something I had been wanting to do + we were hit with extreme summer weather and so it was perfection [although it snowed several inches the next day, boo].

And so we walked and talked and browsed and brainstormed and oohed and awed over our sweet little girl and soaked up the sun and then we returned home for some homemade parmesan salmon sticks and a peach smoothie. I tell you, it was a glorious evening and made all the better just because that hubs of mine decided to write some numbers on some cards and make me laugh and smile instead of just saying, hey lets walk over to those shops yeah?

Creative dating can make all the difference. Are you a fan?

Mag Feature

2011-04-04T13:20:00.000-06:00

I'm jumping a little for joy because our wooden toy camera was featured in the current April issue of PN Magazine! [exclamation exclamation exclamation]. Pick yours up at Barnes & Noble, Target, Whole Foods, Etc.

So amazing to be featured right beside Dwell Studio and Jonathan Adler just to name a few.

However, we don't currently have any wooden toy cameras in stock. Why some of you have asked. Well, we like to mix it up each season and bring you something new. So, we just released the anaPad as our new wooden toy of the season. But, we're taking tally's and just may be bringing the camera's back due to recent requests. Would you like to request one? Leave a comment and help us know if we should bring them back!

Eat Your Fruit + Your Chocolate

2011-04-01T08:00:00.004-06:00

If you are gearing up for General Conference this weekend like we are, this is the salad a.k.a. treat that you need to make.

Snicker Apple Salad.

We love it in the summer time, the fall time, the winter time, and yes even right now, the spring/haven't seen spring yet time.

Its become our favorite salad for taking to a dinner party or a picnic. Thanks to aunts and moms for passing on easy + delicious recipes!

4-5 Large apples of your choice---chop into bite size squares
4 Large snicker bars--chop into bite size squares
1 Tub of Whip Cream
And mix it all together!
You can also add the powder of 1 vanilla pudding & 1 Cup of milk for added flavor.

Hope you have an inspiration filled weekend. Will you come back with events to share?

My 7 Answer Acceptance Speech

2011-03-31T07:00:00.005-06:00

I got a lovely surprise from an old college friend weeks ago and am just getting around to responding...eek! It was an email telling me she gave me an award on her blog! It was nice to read her comment about my little old blog and get to know her better. I've recently become a big fan of her re-vamped blog and new outlook on living a country life. Check it out here.

Now onto answering 7 random things about myself:

1. I am totally a fan of the stripe trend. Anytime I see a striped cardigan or t-shirt or duvet or rug, I covet it.

2. Since high school I have been allergic to citrus, mainly tomatoes, oranges, and lemons. I think I have finally kicked the allergy and have recently enjoyed ziti, spaghetti, and fresh oranges!

3. I think my most embarrassing moment happened last week while slipping on sour cream in the middle of walmart [that J Luce in fact dropped just seconds before]. Milk went flying, pants covered in white cream, and screaming baby that my motherly instincts somehow saved from flying out of my arms. But all in all, if you're going to have an embarrassing moment, have a baby with you; you forget all about being embarrassed and worry about her instead.

4. I ate 4 bowls of cereal last week in one day all before 3:30 p.m. That's how much I love the stuff. I could eat cereal or breakfast food for that matter 3 meals a day and still be a happy camper.

5. I probably check my email about a gazillion times a day...so wanna chat? I'm sure I'll respond!

6. I've never really been a t.v. fan but I'll admit, reality t.v. lures me in.

7. I secretly want to organize a band and go play/sing at a local music house. I can't imagine the high it is to sing on a stage in front of a crowd. Mmmm but I guess the high could go to a low if you're not very good...

anaPad

2011-03-30T08:53:00.002-06:00

Today is a big release day for Twig. The hubs said it perfectly, "we don't have a swanky release event and we don't have Steve Jobs, but we have our own Steve and now have our own version of the iPad."

So without further ado, the anaPad--a children's toy that promotes analog learning and creativity in a digital world.

See more pictures on our website www.twigcreative.com and see them in person next week at the Bijou Market if you are local.

*And might I just add, this says it's for kids but we keep finding handy reasons to use it, lists, entertainment during stake conference, leaving notes for one another...really, do adults have to take over every child's toy? Some things are just that cool.

but...it gets even bigger...

Sweet Marta posted about Twig today and some of our products. Check it out here!

Giveaway Winner from Something Diane Made

2011-03-29T09:48:00.000-06:00

#2 via random.org [I always like when I don't have too count too far in!]
Becca! Yay, a recent new blogging friend of mine. Check your email!

And...so many of you seemed to admire similar things within other people. It had me looking at myself and hoping that some of those qualities are in there. An absolute good reminder, thank you!

Toss Toss

2011-03-29T09:34:00.003-06:00

I've had this goal to eat more salads and since I'm not really a salad girl, I knew I had some preparations to make.

Right after I had J Luce, a neighbor brought over the most fantastic homemade vinaigrette that had me eating salad everyday. I had spinach and sliced mango in the fridge and candied almonds homemade from my mom in the cupboard. When I would get nearly a second to prepare a quick lunch, ya know in between holding and rocking and feeding a newborn, I would dash to the fridge and toss together a salad.

So I knew what I needed to do this time around. I bought some spinach, found a seemingly similar vinaigrette, sliced some mango, and candied some almonds...although now that I think about it, I don't know if my reasoning for eating more salads is justified because I'm basically eating green leaves with sugar sprinkled on top.

But...that's my kind of salad.

Almond Recipe Here.

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Fine Little Day

Successes & Failures As of Late

2011-03-28T13:26:00.000-06:00

01. Lentil Soup- Failure! Why did I even assume that lentil soup would be good in the first place? Those tempting food network chefs, they can make anything look good. But really mine just soaked up all of the broth, consisted of a terrible texture, and inevitably ended up in the trash with us resorting to cheese toast and a peach smoothie for dinner!

02. Couponing- Success! Is this just a Utah thing? Went to a class, have family mentors, ordered multiple newspapers, and had my first attempt at it by getting 10 boxes of pasta for free and toothpaste for 9 cents. Yep, if you put in a little effort and watch the sales, you can snag awesome deals. I use this website for help [she lists both local and national deals].

03. Sunday Wear- Success! Last week's church wearing outfits were mighty fine if I may say so. The hubs walked out in his sailor sperry's, striped shirt, and herringbone tie and I was smitten. I dressed in my baby blue low heels, high waisted skirt, argyle tights, and mustard yellow cardigan with sailor buttons and thought we made a pretty good pair. The babes then finished off the family look with her green & white striped cardi with side flower and yellow + green birdie skirt. It was a high style day I tell ya!

04. Carpal Tunnel- Failure! Does anyone else struggle with this? I literally wear my arm out on the computer until it runs up into my neck and practically makes me ill. I can't not get the things done I need to but can't seem to fight this terrible pain. Exercises? Preventions?

05. Bed Frame- Success! Rad ='s the hubs building us a bed frame! I showed the headboard that I snagged in our local newspapers classifieds but we then wanted to trade out our metal bed frame for a platform type bed. His skills + time made for the perfect combination and we now have a one of a kind bed.

What are your failures and successes from the week?

[Recommending]
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Love Out Loud Series: Friday Finale

2011-03-25T08:31:00.001-06:00

Is it silly that I feel a bit sentimental that the series is ending today? I do. It's been a really great 2 weeks, reflecting on bettering the every day, learning from others examples, and being motivated to be my best self.

I drove past this brick wall last night [arrow pointing to above] and then drove around the block and parked in the middle of the street to then hurry and snap a picture of it. I love that if someone is going to graffiti a wall, it says something positive + understandable for that matter. I thought it was perfect for today's last Love Out Loud post.

Today's Question to Ponder + Share in the Comment's Section:
So as we end and think about how Life Loves You, do tell, How do you Love Out Loud?

P.S. Don't forget the giveaway from Diane and the Love Out Loud Print for only $5.00 through the weekend!

Love Out Loud Series: Kristine on Get Dressed!

2011-03-25T08:02:00.001-06:00

Hi there! My name is Kristine and I have a personal style blog called Kristine. Or Polly.

Photo: Cami Takes Photos

Style, to me, is a way of expressing myself. It is an art project. It involves having a collection of treasures in the form of clothes and accessories, and arranging them to create something that feels right. It is a way to create something beautiful. Just as how decorating your home according to your specific tastes influences how you feel inside of it- the same goes for wearing clothes that express your unique style. It makes you feel comfortable. It makes you feel alive and awake in your own skin. When you approach personal style in this way, it is easy to be excited about getting dressed in the morning!

Putting effort into getting dressed in the morning is such a simple way to boost the quality of your day. What I am wearing and how I present myself greatly affect how I feel about myself. Do I feel put together? Is what I'm wearing accurately reflecting my style and who I want to portray? These factors, though seemingly trivial on the surface, make a huge difference in how I feel about myself- which consequently affects how I interact with others and how self-conscious I am. When I am wearing what I feel most comfortable in (for me, it is color and patterns), I feel more confident and ready to take on any challenge.

Now, personal style does not mean constantly shopping for on-trend items. It means loving what you have, and thoughtfully adding pieces to your closet that you love - not necessarily what some fashion editor loves. Mixing and matching what is already in your closet is a fun and economical way to develop your personal style.

Tips:

Discover your style if you haven't already. Collect images from blogs or magazines. I have an 'outfit inspiration' folder on my computer that really helps me hone in on what I like. I highly recommend having one of these folders. Once you do, look at these photos every day. Analyze what you like about them - is it the colors? Is it the shape or silhouette? The accessories? Find out what it is, make mental notes (or physical notes!), and remember them the next time you go shopping. Or even better, try to recreate it within your own closet!

An inexpensive way to spice up your wardrobe is accessorizing! For example, if you have a closet full of neutrals, purchase colorful vintage scarves at your local Goodwill to tie around your neck or wrap around your hair. If you feel like your closet is too casual, purchase chandelier earrings at somewhere like Forever 21 - they can really do a number to glam up an outfit.

Kendi's 30 for 30 is a very fun way to explore your options within your closet. Basically, the challenge is to choose 30 items of clothing and mix and match them for 30 days. In addition, no clothes shopping can be done during this time! I did this challenge last month and was amazed at how much I learned about my style and what I need to focus on when shopping.

Never say you can't "pull that off". If you like something, wear it with a smile and have confidence in yourself. Like they say, you are wearing the clothes, the clothes are not wearing you. As you learn to wear clothes you love, but wouldn't normally wear, you will become more confident and feel more adventurous!

If you are normally a flats-wearer, put on heels every once in a while. You will be amazed at how confident you feel! I used to only wear flats until this last summer, when I interned at an office where I was by far the youngest (and perhaps shortest) employee. Heels, physically and psychologically, made me walk taller. They gave me that extra backbone to work with my superiors and be seen as an equal. Not to mention, heels are an easy quick fix when you feel frumpy because they lengthen your legs! My favorite heels are the Seychelles "Gypsy" Sandal in red that I got for cheap at a place similar to Nordstrom Rack. Not only do they help my posture, but they also add a splash of color to any outfit!

Kristine. Or Polly. Blog

*My Side Note: I was immediately drawn into Kristine's blog because of her whimsical pictures. Her style of course only adds to that and had me then a complete fan. I have always loved good style but am also a bargain shopper + a lover of a small closet [meaning I don't like to accumulate too much, I like a few good favorite staple items]. With that, I appreciate people like Kristine that help us know that it's not the size of your closet that makes your style or your daily dressing cool; it's how you mix and match and decide to represent yourself. I love her tips and absolutely loved how it was focused on making yourself feel good and increasing your own confidence and demeanor; not because of pressure, competition, or someone else's style. Thanks Kristine!

Love Out Loud Series: Thursday Quote + Question

2011-03-24T08:50:00.000-06:00

[Photo Credit]

"If the individual should set out for a single day to give happiness, to make life happier, brighter and sweeter, not for himself but for others, he would find a wondrous revelation of what happiness really is." -William George Jordan

Today's question to ponder and share in the comment's section:
How do you balance giving of yourself to your kids, spouse, neighbors, parents, friends, co-workers...?

Love Out Loud Series: Raechel on Balance

2011-03-24T07:00:00.003-06:00

Raechel here from Finding My Feet.

I am a mommy blogger.

I am also a Mommy. I am a wife and a homemaker and a seamstress and sister and photographer and Etsy shop owner. I am a Christ-follower and a friend and I happen to love home design too.

That's a whole lot of hats to wear when you're just one person!

Do you ever feel like you have so many great things that you want to do and so many people who love you and - even more - NEED you that you might explode? Sometimes I feel myself being pulled in so many different directions I start panicking. There are days when instead of deciding how I am going to steward my day I feel more like I have to choose who or what I will let down.

Do I fold laundry or play with my kids? After the kids go to bed do I skitter into my sewing room to release some creative energy or do I open a bottle of wine with my husband so we can rehash our days? Do I spend my time recording my kids' lives or do I close up my laptop and build a lego tower?

I'm an over-analyzer, yes. But I have a feeling I'm not alone. Or at the very least, I know we all struggle with how on earth we can "do it all", including those little things we really want to do, but feel guilty taking the time to do them.

About a year ago I was bemoaning this very problem to my older sister Rebecca. She told me I wasn't alone and, like a good big sister, had a fantastic answer for me.

She suggested I decide what things need to happen every day - what things are absolutely non-negotiable. For me, being present with my children is non-negotiable. Spending time with my Jesus is non-negotiable. And of course, my relationship with my best friend (my husband) is a must for me (and coincidentally, one of the best parts of my day!).

[Photo Credit]

"Then," she said, "decide what things are really important - important enough to you that you want to carve out time for them and be intentional about doing them." For me: housekeeping, relationships with friends, sewing, and blogging are the biggies. Blogging is one of my favorite creative outlets - it's my place to keep record of my family life and to enjoy writing, photographing, sewing and decorating. I love the community it provides and it really gives me a good satisfaction. I want to make time for each of these things.

{Notice I didn't put housekeeping in the have-to's? It is really important - and definitely needs to be done. But, I also believe that a clean home doesn't necessarily equal a happy home. Sometimes a slightly tousled home means happy children and a well-fed family. Life will go on if the floors remain unswept.}

Once I identified my have-to's and my want-to's, I could look at my days as a blank slate - or let's say, an empty jar - and start filling it in: boulders first, then stones, then sand.

Every day I make time to really be present with my children, my husband and my God. But within each of those days I have been able to identify specific moments of time that are a little more discretionary. Once the 'musts' are covered, I get to pick!

My husband and I spend the first hour or so after our kids go to bed on our own, doing something each of us wants to do alone. It's our time to unwind. Most often I like to spend that time blogging or sewing, and he likes to watch television, play FIFA or surf the web. The first nap time of the day is for my personal devotions, but nap number two is discretionary. A lot of times there are dishes to be done or laundry to be folded, but sometimes I get to sew or spend special one-on-one time with my 4-year-old if he's not resting.

I've been blessed with a lot of people in my life that love me and need me, and I also have the privilege of doing the things I love to do. Learning to prioritize these things has given life balance and allows me to enjoy each thing as I'm doing it - even vacuuming - knowing that there is time for this thing now, and there will be time for the other things later.

Happy Thursday, friends! Here's to boulders, rocks and sand - and making time to do what you love!

Finding My Feet Blog

Ragamuffin Etsy Shop

*My Side Note: Raechel is one of those bloggers that you randomly come in contact with and are so glad. She is so kind, so on top of it, and such an inspiring mother. This topic is one I've been anxiously waiting to share because it is dear to my heart. She touched on several points that had me nodding my head in agreement and boy did I need to hear her words and remind myself that we sometimes are all in the same boat. Thanks Raechel!

Love Out Loud Series: Wednesday Inspiration

2011-03-23T09:28:00.003-06:00

So let me tell you a little story. Last night, the hubs came home from work and promptly went into our bedroom. When he came out, he told me how much he's liked this Love Out Loud series I've got going and that he would have liked to be involved in it. I quickly exclaimed that I would love for him to be involved...but then he said that he already did something to be a part of it and that I must go find it somewhere in our room!

I think I leaped with a giggle into our bedroom. He always says that he knows when I'm truly excited because I jump in some way ;o)

Well I cheated and opened up his computer [honestly thinking that's where I was supposed to look] and I think I jumped all the way back into the kitchen probably saying I love it! I love it! I love it!. There was this print [insert arrow pointing down], a beautiful colorful typographically perfect print reading Love Out Loud!!! But it gets even better, can you see the hidden wording? Clever I tell you, pure cleverness.

And so here is reason # 1 million why I love my husband's talents + profession + support of my blogging. He's just absolutely incredible.

But of course we wouldn't just leave it at that, it gets even more incredible. We've put this print up in the shop for everyone to have and for this week only until the end of the series, you, my lovely readers can get it at 50% off. Yes you read that correctly, 50% off! Who does that?

So go get one now, it will look really really pretty framed on your wall, I promise.

Purchase the Print Here and enter code LOVEOUTLOUDPRINT for your discount! Hip Hip.

P.S. I was supposed to look on the mirror in the bathroom, there was a printed copy of the print hanging there! He laughed when he found out I went straight to the computer. What a cheater I was!

Giveaway from Something Diane Made

2011-03-23T08:14:00.001-06:00

Who: Something Diane Made. Diane's talent is something I've wished I could acquire but haven't quite had the patience for, thus I greatly admire those that do! She dabbles in the art of hats, shoes, baby cocoons, hair clips, wristlets....and the list goes on! You can also find updates and favorites on her blog here or her facebook page here.

Giving: 1- A Spring Flower Pouch [measures approx. 5 3/4 inches wide by 6 3/4 inches tall]. It is a pink + brown leaf print with dark brown lining, a pink flower a top, and a pink zipper.

2- A Hot Pink Flower Headband!

How: Take a stroll around Diane's shop here and then leave a comment on this post telling me what talent you admire in someone else. [non-bloggers please leave your email] by the end of Monday March 28th.

Extra Entry [in a separate comment]: Blog about this giveaway and link back here.

[images via Something Diane Made's shop]

*Disclaimer: Being a handmade artist myself, I like to host giveaways to share some of my favorite handmade shops and of course support the handmade movement. I hope you will too support this handmade artist by truly visiting and hopefully purchasing something from their shop, not to mention sharing the love through your own social networks. Thank you for entering my giveaways and in turn helping us handmade artists do what we love.

Love Out Loud Series: Tuesday Quote + Question

2011-03-22T08:36:00.001-06:00

[Photo Credit]

Today's question to ponder and share in the comments section:

Do we sometimes try too hard for happiness? What makes you easily happy?

Also, I've got a giveaway winner from the Giveaway Swap with Busy Bee Lauren!

#13, Shauna! Check your email.

Love Out Loud Series: Angela on Wholesome Nourishment

2011-03-22T08:00:00.008-06:00

Angela here from the Angela Hardison Blog and SeeSaw Designs.

[Photo Credit]

I'm on what I like to call a journey to nourishment. Because when I treat my body with respect by carefully choosing what goes inside it, I love the way I feel. At the beginning of this year, I made a goal to eat at least 50% raw foods every day. Along with that goal came a lot of unexpected but welcome changes in my life. I started to spend more time in the kitchen preparing meals, to learn (and care) where my food is coming from, and to understand how healthy food can heal - physically, mentally, and emotionally.

A few things I've learned and some noteworthy suggestions:

- There's an abundance of grains, seeds, fruits, veggies, herbs, etc. Explore them. Try new things. The possibilities with food and flavors are endless.

- Start your day off with a healthy breakfast and it will be easier to make good choices throughout the day. My favorite go-to breakfasts are a green spinach smoothie, or cottage cheese with fresh fruit. (And a tip: eating protein in the morning will help curb sugar cravings all day.)

- When I take time to admire and appreciate how beautiful fruit and vegetables are, I like them even more. Allow yourself to sit in wonder at the perfect sections of a sliced orange, the texture of a raspberry, or the fresh beets that turn everything on your plate a bright magenta. Nature is so inspiring.

- Have fun! Eating right can easily feel like a chore sometimes, but if you make up your mind to enjoy the process (trips to the grocery store and farmer's market, cooking and preparing, etc.) it will make all the difference.

[Raw Foods Photos by Angela!]

When I nourish my body, I feel alive. I feel happy, I feel creative, I feel genuinely inspired, and I love the whole world. It doesn't get better than that.

Favorite resources:

- 101 Cookbooks: a great source for healthy vegetarian recipes

- Quinoa: my favorite grain to cook with, full of protein and rich in nutrients.

- In Defense of Food by Michael Pollan: "Eat Food. Not too much. Mostly Plants."

Angela Hardison Blog
SeeSaw Designs Website
SeeSaw Designs Blog [equally a quick favorite]

*My Side Note: Angela frequently lures me in with her sharp + gorgeous photos and colorful + vintage lifestyle. I was greatly inspired the moment I saw her beautiful food images and even more so when I read about her raw eating journey. I truly believe that we are what we eat. Just think when you eat a greasy hamburger and fries, you can tend to be a little lazy, a little tired. When you eat bright fruit and a delicious smoothie, you are a little more energetic and a little more ready to conquer the world. Thanks Angela!

Love Out Loud Series: Week 2, The Finale

2011-03-21T09:03:00.008-06:00

Good Morning Friends,

[Photo Credit]

It's week 2 of the Love Out Loud series and we've got a great final line up for this week!

Did I or the contributors get you thinking at all? I definitely enjoyed your comments and the overall discussion that buzzed from the advice, quotes, and questions. It really is such a lift to hear from other people, their ways, their routines, their lessons; and learn that we're not too different from one another and yet we can still pick up a lot from each other.

How this Series was Born (2):
Last week, I spilled a little bit about how this series was born. To expand *confession* the term Love Out Loud came into my mind several years ago. I was a single college student living in Idaho with 5 roommates. We were crazy, we were friends, and we were so lucky to live in a quaint little house together. I received a call late one night asking if I could fill in for a teacher the next morning at church. I said yes but then felt a little frazzled as all my roommates went to bed and I stayed up with books out and lamp on, trying to put together a quicky lesson.

I tell you, it was inspiration from above because Love Out Loud was the topic of the lesson and everything fell into place so nicely. I would be teaching to a bunch of young women, myself included, and so I immediately thought about the pettiness that we sometimes (or quite often) let ourselves fall into. Women/girls can be so judgmental of not only themselves but others. I wanted to create a unity and remind them/me that we need to step outside of ourselves and we need to love out loud as we really know we can and should.

So now 4 years later, here I am needing the use of the meaning of Love Out Loud again. See I got a little distracted. I started to peer into the internet lives of women and I fell for the idea that I needed that rug and that skirt and that afternoon date and that superwoman mentality. I've talked about it before, but I think the deception to compare ourselves is ever so present and ever so hard to dodge in this highly electronic/sharing of our lives world. So even when deep down I knew that I shouldn't compare myself to others, the whirlwind of it all, swept me away.

Series Continuing Inspiration Starter:
"A person lacking faith and fearing the future, spends himself in fretting and finding too little satisfaction in his work, his loved ones, his life." -Richard L. Evans

"When the worries and cares of the day fret you,...wear upon you,...stop and let...calmness and peace assert themselves..." -William George Jordan

"We all acquire our scars, our heartaches, and our lessons learned, but the plain fact is that we have come through all the past. And the further fact is that we can't change all things at once--nor would we want to. Along with the adverse elements, there is goodness in life, and in people, and an overruling power and purpose. And after we have done the best we can, there is much for which we have to trust, much that we must leave in Higher Hands."

"There is majesty in calmness, and strength--and peace." -Richard L. Evans

Series Contributors (2):
Last week we focused on being optimistic day in and day out, following your heart and doing what you love, remembering your young married love and not losing that spark, and getting out and about and getting to know the town you're in.

This Week:
Tuesday- Wholesome Nourishment by Angela from Angela Hardison
Wednesday- Giveaway from Something Diane Made
Thursday- Balance by Raechel from Finding My Feet
Friday- Get Dressed! by Kristine from Kristine. or Polly

Today's question to ponder and share in the comments section:
How do you bring calmness and peace to your mind, body, and surroundings throughout the day?

So here we go again gals! Thanks for joining me and please keep your input coming; I truly love it.

Love Out Loud Series: Friday Quote + Question

2011-03-18T09:19:00.000-06:00

[Photo Credit]

"Blessed are they who never become wholly sophisticated, but who still dream and wonder and believe!" who have the "power of feeling things freshly...which no skepticism and world-weariness can dim." -Phillip Brooks

Today's question to ponder and share in the comment's section:
What brings you in tune with your inner child? Bringing out your imagination, allowing you to dream and taste and try and run and skip and be free?

A BIG THANKYOU to all those who have joined me this week for the kick off of the Love Out Loud series. It has been enjoyable to read the words of inspiring people including your comments and to read on topics that remind us to live, to do, and to be. Come back on Monday for a listing of next week's contributors!

Love Out Loud Series: Liz on Getting to Know Your Town

2011-03-18T08:58:00.001-06:00

Liz here from Say Yes! to Hoboken.

Living in San Francisco, we are fortunate to have great weather year round and an incredibly diverse landscape to explore. We live right in the city but often venture out to hike, camp, ski, backpack or simply walk along the cliffs to step away from the intensity of the city.

Getting out and spending some time in nature, even just for an afternoon, always makes me feel more alive and more grounded. Having a son that is extremely active, it's the perfect opportunity to let him run wild without limits (well, maybe a few limits).

One of our favorite places to explore when the sun is setting and when we might be feeling couped up in the house is a section along the cliffs, on the northwestern part of the city called Lands End. It's only about 10 minutes from our flat. There are pathways along high cliffs, caves to explore, waves to watch crash and remains from old buildings to climb. Oh, and plenty of rocks to throw. Plus it's beautiful and relaxing there, to watch the sun set on our often crazy and stressful day.

We also live down the road from a wonderful public and secluded beach called China Beach. Even on the warmest days of the year it's never too crowded and you have a beautiful view of the Golden Gate Bridge to your right anywhere you lay your beach blanket. The freedom to run and jump and throw to his hearts content makes me feel like I'm doing something right as a parent, at least in that moment.

Say Yes! to Hoboken Blog

*My Side Note: I've followed Liz's blog now for quite some time and I'm always renewed by her little tidbits of sewing charm, crafting ideas, unique finds, explorations, and flawless taste. Hers is one that gives you an all around browse of home, motherhood, beauty, style, and the best of the best. It's always a good reminder to get out and about and get to know your town. I have fallen in love with a many places just by taking the time to look up or find those small unique places that give your town just the right amount of charm. Thanks Liz!

Giveaway from Busy Bee Lauren

2011-03-17T07:50:00.002-06:00

Today's giveaway is a little different because I've teamed up with Lauren from Busy Bee Lauren for a giveaway swap! She's over here giving away the ridiculously cool "hippie headband" appropriately named Calm and I'm over there giving away a little something.

So what to do? Comment here and then head on over to her blog and comment there too!

The deets: The giveaway(s) will run until Monday March 21st in which we will both post the winners and send out the goods. All I'm asking is that you leave a comment telling me what you do for St. Patty's Day [as it's not always the most celebrated ya know] and non-bloggers please leave your email.

P.S. Have you read Lauren's blog? I came across her space by linking through another blog and she immediately became a regular in my list of followed blogs. There is just something about her realness, her style, her husband + wife adventures, and her down right like-able personality. I told her this the other day, but reading her blog is a bright spot in my day.

P.S.S. Hope you're wearing green today; Happy St. Patty's Day!

Love Out Loud Series: Thursday Quote + Question

2011-03-17T06:05:00.001-06:00

[Photo Credit]

“And the true realism, always and everywhere, is that of the poets, to find where the joy resides, and give it voice, far beyond singing.” -Robert Louis Stevenson

[Taken from this article that I read yesterday and highly recommend.]

Today's question to ponder and share in the comment's section:
What is one talent you've always wanted to acquire but have never tried?

Love Out Loud Series: Ashley on Husband + Wife, A Marriage

2011-03-17T06:00:00.003-06:00

Ashley here from I Believe in Unicorns.

Yesterday I caught Marcus reading my blog.

Actually, I didn't catch him. He was sitting next to me at the library when all of the sudden he turned to be with the IHEL look in his eyes to tell me he loved me.

I wondered what had brought about such affection. He looked embarrassed and wouldn't tell me. After some gentle probing, he admitted that he was reading the first two tabs on my blog (A Lovely Love Story and Us.)

and the memories made him happy. I could tell that he felt good knowing that I was so happy with him.

We've only been married for about 7 months and even still, remembering is our favorite thing.

We regularly talk about our engagement and how much we hated going home at night.

We talk about our wedding and being surrounded by our family.

We both were so full of love, I'm sure those around up feared a human explosion.

We talk about our 7-week honeymoon adventure, and how it was well-worth the wait.

I read out-loud from my journal, and we laugh about the early stages of dating.

And then we remember when we moved back up to school and the reality of life began.

And it was beautiful.

Lots of days are busy and 'regular.'

They aren't always filled with magic and romance, but we still get giddy when we're done watching a movie and we know we get to go snuggle in bed. We appreciate it, because we remember what it was like when we couldn't.

We can't wait to see each other after a long day of schoolwork because we're each other's best friend.

Little notes around the house showing appreciation can still be found under a pillow or hung taped to the mirror, because we know courtship isn't over.

It's beautiful to know that he's always there to hold me up when I'm feeling down, and that I'm always there to listen to his dreams in the morning.

Sometimes the reason I'm feeling down is silly, but sometimes his dreams are silly, too.

The best thing we can do for each other is to remember the good times, not to judge each other for the bad times, and just love, and receive love in return.

Afterall, that's what a marriage is all about, isn't it?

I Believe in Unicorns Blog

*My Side Note: Ashley hasn't been blogging for very long now but one read and you'll see why she has become a quick favorite. She writes incredibly well + entertainingly, she shares hip fashion, and she reminds me to love more, open my eyes more, and enjoy more. I was so glad she joined in on writing this post because there is nothing like reminding you of your own marriage love than hearing from a newlywed. The hubs and I too still reminisce about our honeymoon but the adventures now are pretty good too!

Love Out Loud Series: Wednesday Quote + Question

2011-03-16T08:15:00.001-06:00

[photo credit]

"One ought, every day at least to hear a little song, read a good poem, see a fine picture, and, if it were possible, to speak a few reasonable words." -Goethe

Today's question to ponder and share in the comment's section:
Do you connect with culture? With the arts? With the beauty around you? What is your secret or not so secret daily dose of just you joy?

Love Out Loud Series: Melanie on Following Your Heart

2011-03-16T06:00:00.003-06:00

Melanie today from You Are My Fave, a party planner + lifestyle blog writer.

My path to a self started career is similar to other stories you've probably heard. I had a job that made me miserable, I got laid off of that job and secretly rejoiced because I could watch Oprah again. I looked for something else without much success and did odd end jobs in the meantime. I was sad. I decided to remedy this by going after what I really wanted. It took about a year and a half of sort-of unemployment (I say sort-of because I was blogging and substitute teaching so it wasn't like I was doing nothing) before I started working on my event planning business. During that year and a half I had my ups and downs - ups because I could do whatever I wanted and downs because I felt a twinge guilty that I was being lazy and not really earning much money. It was during one of the down times where I gave myself a swift kick to the behind and said, "Hey, stop moping! If you want something, go after it. You're an adult. Stop making excuses." And I put my head down and started working. I still have a long way to go but the satisfaction of taking the first steps is pretty swell.

The act of doing what I love for a pretend living (my husband is the one who actually brings home the bacon) has significantly boosted my daily happiness level but if you're not in the position to do that right now, don't give up hope that you can't love the everyday. Your environment does have an effect on your happiness but you're outlook is what's most important. Never say, "I will be happy when..."

Fill in the blank with: when my baby sleeps through the night, when I make more money, when I buy a house, when I get married - the list could go on. We're all guilty of this now and again but it's really hard to spot the daily happy moments when you're staring at some point on the horizon. Because you know fair well that when you reach that moment in life, you'll just move onto wanting something else.

I still have the days where I'm not living my best life (as Oprah would say) because I have to do/be in situations that are less than desirable, but guaranteed there is at least one happy moment in each day. When I have to do a day of substitute teaching, I remember the little girl who told me I was pretty. When a party project fails, I remember the funny text I got from a friend. When dinner burns, I think about how much I like ordering pizza and we make it a party night. Good things are everywhere, you just have to open your eyes extra wide to spot them.

Two (party) things I love:

Cake stands! Fishs Eddy has a fantastic selection.

Big balloons! Sugar has a good selection of colors.

You are My Fave Website

You Are My Fave Blog

*My Side Note: I've been a big fan of Melanie and her work for quite some time. It is always inspiring to hear the story behind the jump into a self started business/dream. I have always believed that it is a waste to sit at a miserable job day in and day out when you know you were made for something else. Scary to change, yes, but Melanie is a prime example of the joy that comes from doing something you are passionate about. Thanks Melanie!

Sponsor Inspired

2011-03-16T05:00:00.001-06:00

As you know, there are a few 'lil shops over there on my side bar and the great thing about them is not only am I able to hopefully introduce a new handmade artist to you, but they each have a unique story. I was inspired by this message sent to me from Somer of Somer Knits and I thought it fit in well with this weeks Love Out Loud series. If she doesn't listen to her inner artist and offer you a unique handmade item; I don't know who does!

[Photo Credit]

"I don't have just a few designs that I mass produce. In fact, only rarely do I make something more than a few times, so many of the items listed in my etsy shop are one of a kind or one of very few. I am totally open to custom orders, but most of the time i am a very organic knitter, meaning I knit what I feel that day. Right now I am in to super girly. Bows, flowers, & ruffles! But I tend to make a wide variety so there are things for the not so girly as well." -Somer

Extra Link Ups from the Lovely Ladies on the Side Bar:
Somer Knits Blog and Facebook
Turquoise Alligator Facebook
Amy Peters Blog and Facebook

Love Out Loud Series: Tuesday Quote + Question

2011-03-15T08:16:00.008-06:00

[photo credit]

"To know what you prefer, instead of humbly saying Amen to what the world tells you you ought to prefer, is to have kept your soul alive." -Robert Louis Stevenson

Today's question to ponder and share in the comments section:
What helps ground you? Keeping authentic and true to you, your beliefs, your style, your individual character?

Love Out Loud Series: Gussy on Optimism

2011-03-15T08:01:00.005-06:00

Hi there {waves}, this is Gussy of Gussy Sews. A lot of my time is spent sewing ruffles, creating inspirational blog posts, and snuggling my husband and puppy. I'm excited to share part of my journey with you that led me to owning my own business at age 24, plus some tips on optimism :]

[photo credit]

My husband and I currently live in Minneapolis, MN. When we first moved here {from Detroit, MI}, I was so incredibly excited... we both were. We had just closed a 7-month long chapter of unemployment and I was feeling on top of the world over new job opportunities. I mean, we had moved 12 hours from family for these opportunities... I needed this excitement to last. And I was excited, but only for a few months. Turns out working a job you aren't in love with doesn't keep you feeling on top of the world for very long. I learned that quickly, and I was instantly bummed because the feeling that "this would be how I feel forever" hit me hard. For so long I prayed for a job, and then that prayer was answered, but it didn't seem... enough.

In the meantime, I was working hard at sewing my ruffled Gussy Sews products and through a series of events {really great blog traffic, meaningful relationship with other bloggers, attending Blissdom}, Zack and I decided it was time to prepare for me to quit my day job to work on Gussy Sews full-time. I couldn't believe it!!! This was such an exciting time.

Once we decided I was going to leave my current job to become an indie biz owner, optimism is what kept me going. I felt in control and finally felt relief in what had been a stale situation. It was so hard to maintain the energy needed to work 2 full-time jobs, especially when one job felt so wrong, but having something to look forward to kept me going. OPTIMISM. And now that I'm on the other side, having been my own boss for ALMOST a year {yeow!}, there are new challenges I'm facing that require me to stay optimistic. I know being my own boss isn't the end to difficult emotions, but we really feel I'm doing what I was called to do, and that will forever be so exciting.

But, one thing I've learned ~ no matter how big or small my goals are, I need to use goals to keep my optimism flowing.

[photo credit]

A lot of the time, my work with Gussy Sews is independent, which was definitely one of the reasons working my previous job {the one that brought us to MN} made work so incredibly difficult. I'm a people person... I crave interaction and love to encourage/motivate others. But I've found a new, different way to fill myself up, and that's through meeting with friends for coffee, quick phone calls to friends that live far away, planning partnerships with other bloggers, attending conferences/events, etc. OPTIMISM: knowing what makes me long-term happy & doing my best to always work towards those feelings.

Whatever fills you up, it's important to know that and make sure you are doing that. There are so many amazing gals online that have blogs, have a handmade shop {or have both!}, and one thing I remind myself constantly is, We all have hard days, but how much of that we share online is up to each person individually. It's OK if they don't share their hard times... I know they have them... and it's OK for me to have them. But I can't dwell on the negative {feeling overwhelmed; not good enough; not creative enough, etc.} so it's time to go do something positive. If there's ever a time I feel alone, I remind myself of that -- and, that's also usually a sign it's time to get offline, out of the house, and do something FUN! :]

Here's a quick list of how I stay optimistic:
* remember that my talents are a gift -- James 1:17
* take Bauer {our 8-month-old puppy} for a walk
* close the computer and spend a couple of hours in my studio creating something new {&/or working with a new medium}
* watch a good movie, listen to music, day dream {so many good ideas come from these things}

Honestly though, one thing that helps me to move forward each day with an optimistic viewpoint is that we didn't take victory over unemployment by relocating our family 12 hours from the rest of our family, and then have the opportunity to take a VERY EXCITING job risk just to have a "meh" attitude on life. I didn't experience wonder, doubt & fear for nearly 2 years only to accept that would be my destiny. I believe my God has bigger plans for me, plans that far exceeded that short period.

Life is not easy, but the best part -- the most encouraging part -- is that a wonderful, amazing, perfect life has already been planned for me. It's up to me to see that and own it.
xoxo

Gussy Sews Blog
Gussy Sews Facebook

Gussy Sews Shop

*My Side note: I happened upon Gussy's blog at a time when I really needed a motivational boost. To me she is an example of optimism, dedication, and faith. As you can tell from her story, she has worked hard to get where she is today, physically, emotionally, and spiritually. Her success in her business and everyday endeavors is because of that optimistic perspective and will power to make the most of her time & talents. Thanks Gussy!

Love Out Loud: An Introduction

2011-03-14T14:08:00.003-06:00

Hi Friends,

Today is the day, the day to launch my 2 week series LOVE OUT LOUD.

[please share this button freely!]

How this Series was Born:
A couple of weeks ago, after acknowledging that I just didn't quite have the spark and light that I used to I decided to make several daily changes. One big change included using my mornings more wisely. My little girl has been sleeping in until 10ish am [I know I'm living it up while I can!] and instead of sleeping in with her or doing less productive things, I found that I could accomplish all of the things that I had accepted as not having time for. Can you imagine how dramatically my day changed when I woke up, exercised, had spiritual reading time while eating breakfast, blogged, showered, and actually got myself ready for the day!

On top of that I recognized missing pieces like doing what I love and 1-Making something from hand [art, home projects, baking], 2- Stepping out of my bubble and giving both J Luce and I people time [we joined a music play group; great for baby play for her and grown up talk for me], 3- Lightening up and laughing more [sometimes I get too focused on my list of things to do that my attitude is poor when spontaneous-ness comes into play], 4- Better listening to my heart and being less selfish [visiting, sending a card, baking some cookies, and acting on the promptings I get to help someone else].

How this Series Relates to You:
I've always been a big believer in the need for others. I know that we need each other, because we become better individuals by learning from, being inspired by, and influencing one another. We're all a bit different and a bit the same; thus we have a lot to share and a lot to resonate with.

And so, insert the Love Out Loud series. It's all about being your best self and not just thinking about it but doing it. Martial said, "Tomorrow I will live, the fool does say; Today itself's too late: the wise lived yesterday." It's about opening our eyes to the fact that the everyday is what makes up our lives and learning through others pro-active resolve to love their daily life.

Series Inspiration Starter:
"It is obvious that the mind and spirit and intelligance of man are infinite, as we see what he can conceive: art, music, literature, science; the doing and making of too much to mention. It is obvious that man is the most marvelous mechanism on the earth, with body, mind, spirit--the chemistry and composition, and all the physical and mental functions: the power to grow, to think, to feel.

But we often ignore what we know. We know now that if we study, if we learn, if we use our time well, we shall be better prepared for the future. But even knowing this, we still waste much of time, much of life, in more or less aimless activity--or inactivity.

Any passing season is somewhat sobering, for time measures life, and in spending time we spend ourselves. As to time: We cannot save it; we can't call it back; we can't re-use it, ever. It is precious and important--for in spending time we spend ourselves." -Richard L. Evans

"The unwritten only still belongs to thee. Take heed and ponder well what that shall be." -Longfellow

Series Contributors:
Tuesday- Optimism by Maggie from Gussy Sews
Wednesday- Following Your Heart by Melanie from You Are My Fave
Thursday- Husband + Wife, A Marriage by Ashley from I Believe In Unicorns
Thursday- St. Patty's Day Giveaway Swap with Lauren from Busy Bee Lauren
Friday- Getting to Know Your City by Liz from Say Yes to Hoboken

and that's just this week! Stay tuned for more contributor info. for next week's line up.

Welcome to the series.
Hope you will join in, share your ideas & experiences and most of all make your everyday quality.

Today's question to ponder and share in the comments section:
What is a quote that gets you going or that you live by?

Giveaway Winner from Eager Hands

2011-03-14T10:50:00.001-06:00

#43, via random.org.
Tasha! Check your email.

I absolutely LOVED reading what brings you all Joy. Thank you for taking the time to really write out your happiness. It was so uplifting and now I have a bunch more new blogs to browse!

How to Wear Twig Earrings & a Necklace

2011-03-13T16:43:00.006-06:00

Like So.

*wink wink

Even better on a Spring day.

***

With some skinny jeans.

***

Did I tell you I bought my first pair? Love them.

***

Twig, fully loaded for spring.

*wink wink

Sunshine on My Shoulder

2011-03-13T16:16:00.002-06:00

This weekend was bright. Bright with sun and bright with lots of outdoor time. You realize how much you've missed the warmth of the sun when the first sign of spring shows its face!

J Luce enjoyed sitting out on the grass with her dad holding and pulling apart leaves while I waited in a gigantic post office line, we visited family and pulled out the 4 wheeler for a drive around the neighborhood, barbecued some salmon, and then the hubs and I couldn't resist a little tandem bike ride while the babe napped. I was heard saying "we sure have the life" and the hubs said, "I love when you're happy." All I've needed was a little sun!

Please tell me you enjoyed some sunshine too?

Cooking Tools

2011-03-11T14:30:00.003-07:00

I've always thought that the art of making food + food itself is beautiful but the other night I realized that the surroundings and the tools are quite beautiful as well.

P.S. Our go-to meal is always hash browns and eggs. Sometimes made into a breakfast burrito. I love it when I send the hubs a message saying "I'm just not quite feeling our meal for tonight, what about hash browns and eggs?" And he without fail says that he was hoping I would say that! What's your go-to meal?

[Recommending]
Sunday Suppers

Wand Feature

2011-03-11T08:21:00.002-07:00

Remember the cute little wands I made for birthday gifts for our nieces? Well Amy happened upon them and asked if she could feature them on her blog which is appropriately named Modge Podge Rocks. She's the queen of decoupage and will empty your bottle of modge podge before you know it if you start browsing through hers + shared ideas! Click here for the feature. Thanks Amy.

And speaking of wands, I can't get over this magical story about TWIG! Thanks Ashley!

The Trading Post

2011-03-10T08:18:00.007-07:00

I'm excited to introduce a new blog + a new concept to you that TWIG is involved with today. It's called, The Trading Post. Jessie contacted us after having seen our booth at the Bijou Market and let us know about her new blog that not only features giveaways but also offers something new that I haven't heard around the blogging block, trading. Cool right?

A shop lists several items that they would like to trade and then fellow shop mates or even just fellow creators can list in the comment section what they would like to trade for that shops items and swip swap, they both receive unique new items, ultimately supporting the handmade movement!

It gets even better, she also offers charity and donation opportunities. It's a fully loaded giving and receiving blog! She's had a great lineup in the last 2 weeks of her "grand opening" and we're featured today with several prints and a pair of earrings. Go on over and trade with us yeah?

Giveaway from Eager Hands

2011-03-09T08:47:00.003-07:00

Who: Eager Hands. Her shop motto says it all "She selects wool and flax and works with eager hands" [Proverbs 31:13]. Lora is one of the kindest blogging friends I've met on the www. She is encouragingly optimistic and her creations are beautiful. And she blogs about her cutto kids here.

Giving: The Joy hand stamped sterling silver necklace with vintage pearl as seen above with details here.

How: Take a stroll around Lora's shop here [she's almost to 800 sales and celebrating with a sale!] and then leave a comment on this post telling me what brings you joy. [non-bloggers please leave your email] by the end of Monday March 14th.

Extra Entry [in a separate comment]: Blog about this giveaway and link back here.

[images via eager hands shop]

*Disclaimer: Being a handmade artist myself, I like to host giveaways to share some of my favorite handmade shops and of course support the handmade movement. I hope you will too support this handmade artist by truly visiting and hopefully purchasing something from their shop, not to mention sharing the love on your own social networks. Thank you for entering my giveaways and in turn helping us handmade artists do what we love.

S to the L to the C

2011-03-09T08:34:00.003-07:00

Beth over at Dot in the City asked me to guest post today, writing about one of my favorite cities. I have several but knew that I had the biggest to-do list and the most pictures of my own home state city Salt Lake City, Utah. So hop on over and see what my checklist looks like! Click here.

P.S. We watched Morning Glory last night [after the hubs sent me an email picture of a redbox dvd with the words "Maybe if you're not busy tonight we could go to a movie?" [Love!]] and it was an absolute goody. The crazy characters, the soundtrack, the bangs, it was all so my type of movie. Maybe you and your hubs need a night out on the sofa with popcorn too?

Ribbons & Bows

2011-03-07T10:53:00.003-07:00

This was posted on TWIG's Facebook Page this morning. Maybe you want to help us out?

[So we've got an idea--a big idea. How would you like to help design Twig's next art print? Bows and ribbons are often used as a symbol of hope or celebration. We want to create a piece of art that showcases different ribbons drawn by you. Don't worry, you don't need to be an artist. In fact, the more character in your drawings the better. Just do a simple line sketch of your favorite style of bow or ribbon like you see above. Just email us or post your sketch on our facebook page . Your sketch and your name will appear on an item sold exclusively on Twig.]

Husband & Wife Means

2011-03-07T10:24:00.000-07:00

While you drive through the rainy night, you have a heart to heart. He buoys you up reminding you of things you've known but maybe forgotten. The car is warm, the baby's bink is swishing in and out of her mouth as she sleeps, street lights blur with the rain, and you're grateful for support from and good conversation with the man you love.

Imperfectly Perfect Bunting Banner

2011-03-04T08:53:00.004-07:00

Bunting banners are so old news, I know. But when you have a bunch of smallish fabric scraps, they are the go-to project. Plus I think it will spruce up our twig table at the upcoming spring markets just perfectly.

As I've said before, I consider myself a simple sewer which means that straight lines and I get along quite well. So once again, bunting banner + straight lines = a good 'ol easy project that my sewing machine and I can handle....and maybe this is just the project for you too?

I was inspired by Annie's square continuous thread banner and so that's what I did!

And what was that, you want one too? I thought so. I made one for you, right here. Happy Friday!

A big 'ol pile of fabric scraps.

Cut fabric to desired size. I cut mine about 3.5 x 4.5 inches.

Lay fabric out on flat surface to decide coordinating order of swatches.

I liked the floor for looking down on and swapping out.

Set machine to a zigzag stitch & accompanying length & width settings.

Sew the zigzag stitch along all 4 edges of fabric.

Just lift presser foot and turn fabric to begin stitch on each side.

Change settings back a normal straight stitch & sew straight along 1st swatch.

Continue straight string for a few stitches to then connect to 2nd swatch.

Attach some sort of cord or twine to the end of the 1st & last swatches.

Zigzag stitch along a small bit of the cord on the end.

And there you have it!

Now ready for hanging.

You'll Want to be a Stranger

2011-03-03T09:54:00.003-07:00

Justin's at it again, beginning the fourth year of the 30 strangers project! I just pulled up his blog to copy the link to post here and ended up browsing it for far too long. His photography is not only captivating but story telling. One of the best days was happening upon his 30 strangers project 2 years ago and signing my mom and I up for it. Now I have timeless pictures that I wouldn't have otherwise. You don't always think of planning a photo shoot for you and your mom...but when she was the one who birthed, raised, and loved you from the beginning, you should have a beautiful picture of you two together. Mine rests nicely in a floating frame upon a shelf, front and center, in my living room. I love it and even more, I absolutely love that picture of my mom. Go here for more info. and don't hesitate to sign up or else, you'll miss your chance!

P.S. He's also doing all sorts of amazing wedding/blog photos shoots. Makes me really wish I was planning a wedding again.

Sleeping in a Cloud

2011-03-03T08:38:00.004-07:00

Remember how I mentioned a while ago that since our marriage we have borrowed several furniture items from family. Well since moving around a couple of times, we are now slowly trying to accumulate the needs to fill a home. It's a lot of work I tell ya, trying to find good deals/good taste on big items that all cost a fortune; especially when needed all at the same time.

Last weekend was project bed! A couple of years ago I purchased a tempur-pedic pillow for the hubs and we got me one last year. Then this last fall we invested in a nice memory foam king size bed. Those 3 purchases are some of the best decisions we have made! [besides finding each other of course *wink] I've never been a pillow/bed snob but after having years of uncomfortable sleep and neck kinks, I now see the point in going all the way and purchasing the right equipment for something that we spend a significant amount of time doing. I mean really, I used to sleep with my arm under my pillow to try to puff it up, eek!

It seemed such a luxury to sleep in a king size bed when traveling and staying at hotels and so we figured if we have to buy a mattress, we might as well save money in the long run by purchasing the actual size we want and plan to keep for years to come.

It now feels like sleeping in a cloud.

The bed came together like this:
Mattress: Costco [delivered to our door in an amazingly compact box]
Headboard: Shabby to Chic Design [refinished & found in local classifieds]
Patterned Sheets/Pillowcases: TJMAXX
Down Comforter: JCPenney
Duvet: IKEA
Painting Above Bed: Husband with frame re-painted by me

Polka Dots & Cheerios

2011-03-02T13:30:00.012-07:00

Baby girl,

Last week dad sent me out for a bit to have some me time. When I came home, dad showed me a video of the "camp out" you guys had. Dad showed you how fun it is to lay under a blanket and watch the light from the flash light dance across it. He then built you a fort in your bedroom the next night. What a lucky girl you are.

A couple of days ago you decided that a bowl of cheerios while sitting on the floor was your favorite snack + I found out that it entertains you for a long time...!

Two days ago I stood you on one end of the sofa and reached out my hand from the other end. You huffed and puffed and squealed with laughter, so excited to walk to my hand. You realized that you could now move along the sofa instead of just standing there when you pull yourself up to it!

Yesterday I kneeled down in front of the stove to peek in at dinner, you crawled right over to me, pulled yourself up on my leg and we put our heads together and watched the sweet potatoes, carrots, & zucchini simmer.

This morning you held onto your mini whisk as I made cookies. When they came out of the oven I tried a bit and blew on one for you. You tasted it and then said YUM! That called for another bite!

Ribbon Sticks

2011-03-02T08:18:00.000-07:00

I saw a similar idea around the www this week and thought I'd take a gander at my own design of such. A simple + cute idea for sprucing up a gift package, an empty vase, a birthday table, a cake, or a wedding. Think this would be darling with real sticks from a tree for a woodsy inspired wedding.

Supplies: Ribbon, Sticks of any kind, Scissors.

Fold ribbon in half.

Try to hold child on your lap while she eats all of your tools.

Tie a knot in the half folded over ribbon.

Push stick through the loop hole and tighten knot around stick.

Trim ribbon to desired length & cut a triangle on the end.

Repeat as many times as you like!

Place somewhere that could use a little sunshine!