Lovelie: A Creative & Inspirational Design Blog

SimpleHappy

2012-02-10T11:59:00.000-08:00

I'd like to introduce a little feature on the blog called "SimpleHappy" based upon the concept in life that it's the simple things that matter most. I always find I get ridiculously giddy at the silliest little things. Like when I sit down to watch Grey's Anatomy with my boyfriend and a bowl of Goldfish crackers (am I the only one that steals snacks from their kids? Please tell me you do too so I don't feel guilty! :P) I am so happy it's stupid haha! So, yes, the little things - the simple things :) those are the things that make life worthwhile. This is what's on my list of SimpleHappy for this week:

These flowers :) Munchkin helped pick them from our garden (there isn't much in there haha!) Some Begonias, some weed looking fluffy spherical things, and some velvety grey-green leafed thing (I am QUITE the botanist aren't I?? It's my mom's garden, shh!) They are sitting in a Starbucks Frappe Bottle :) (and currently wilting after a day, but hey, it makes me ridiculously happy to have flowers from OUR garden and to have picked them with her :)

Cheyenne and I picked this rock up on the beach while on a mini-date with Daddy :) She painted it light blue and told me what to write on it. The "hanger" is an old broken Pooka (how do you spell that??) shell necklace. It's going to be his Valentine's Day gift :D

Yes, the television spot got me lol. But they ARE delicious! And I feel much better giving them to my little one (and having a few myself of cooourse) knowing that they have vitamins and fiber and all that. Would it be better to have yogurt as dessert? Yes, but when you are craving Oreos and milk, this is a fantastic substitute! And if you are on WW pts plus, these are only 4 points for 3 - not bad!

This SimpleHappy is brought to you by Pinterest (find me here! I will be adding a link on the sidebar soon :)) With all the house-hunting going on lately, my mind has been racing with thoughts of designing a kitchen, decorating a living room, etc etc. So basically I've been on Pinterest ALOT. Sometimes dreaming just makes ya happy! (to see more of this kitchen, click here)

This little book is WONDERFUL! I am, well, let's just say not so good with keeping up with things. Food journal? Some how I stopped using it. Daily Planner? Got so busy I just decided writing things down was a waste of time (oh dear I need help lol). But this, this little book is fantastic. Every night I go to bed and have a new and interesting question to answer. I haven't missed a day yet and it's been over a month. Milestone for me! LOL sad but true. And the coolest part is that for the next 5 years, I'll get to see how my answers change based on what's going on in my life. I think it'd be really cool to do something similar with children (though some of the questions in this particular book get too heavy for kids IMO). If anyone knows of such a book, please let me know!

Well that's it for this week :) Thanks for stopping by and here's to hoping you have some SimpleHappy moments of your own!

I'm Back! Where I'm at Now & What's to Come

2012-02-10T07:08:00.000-08:00

Hello everyone! It's been a long time since I've posted - a little over a year! Life got crazy and a lot has happened since then. I've gotten a job, lost a job, lost a boyfriend (well, we broke up) and gotten him back. All the while trying to go to school and raise my little girl. I've done a lot of growing, and I'm glad to say that though life isn't always peachy, I'm in a good place now. My boyfriend and I are now going on 5 years, and I have to say I am happier than I've ever been - sometimes a break is what you need to grow up a little and find yourself (and I truly mean that for the both of us) - I'm set to graduate school next May and big changes will be coming as I will be moving to Orlando so that the 3 of us can live together (FINALLY!). Thankfully he has a good job with a very promising future (he's set to get the business from the owner as soon as he graduates school!!!). So things are looking up :)

As for me, I am focusing a lot on my daughter, my art (school), and just enjoying my life and all its little joys. I'm also getting back into my Etsy shop (neeeed that income!!) so I'll let you know how things go there :) I'm trying to figure out where this blog is going too...I really want to share some of my silly little DIYs (I really should call them experiments - they're not always successful haha!), projects with my daughter, home inspiration...I don't know. I've got my work cut out for me though :) Anyway, that is what's going on right now. Stick around! <3

Winners of Lovelie's Giveaway

2010-12-11T13:21:00.000-08:00

Hello everyone and sorry for the delay. I've contracted a not so lovely cold and completely zonked out last night after work. As I write this, I'm in a complete daze. Anyway, the winners of the contest are (surprise, surprise - only two people entered!):

Theresa of Threads of a Gypsy Blog and
Kirsten of 6th Street Design School

Thank you ladies and I will be sending you your exclusive discount code shortly. Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays!

Hello! And btw here's a giveway!

2010-12-03T13:53:00.000-08:00

Well hi there! I know I've been sort of absent. And I apologize! I had every intention of blogging at my new job. I'm a computer lab monitor at my school. I work in the music department and basically make sure nobody steals anything and that they all sign in - but my job also came with another part. I'm putting my graphic design skills to work making posters for upcoming musical productions, as well as the programs that go along with them. I really thought I would have time to blog, but it's nuts! [Not to complain here, but] they give me assignments with no deadline so I can't pace myself and it gets a little crazy sometimes. I'm still finding my way. And hey, it's a good job with some perks for a single mom and student like myself. Oh and some good news on the jobfront - the dean of the art department has asked me (yes, me!) to speak at the groundbreaking ceremony of the new art building - eek!!! Very excited that I, and I quote, "came highly recommended," and definitely excited about what this could do for my reputation, job, etc. Good things, good things!

Anyway, I came on here to let everyone know that Lovelie is having a Holiday/Clean Sweep sale. It's been really hard to keep up the stock in my store, as I really haven't had time to go treasure hunting. My listings are about to expire and I would hate to pay more etsy fees (wah!) so I'm offering 20% off with code GIVECHEER annnnd two lucky winners will receive an exclusive sale code for an additional 10% off. That's a total of 30% off! Spread the word and increase your chances of winning - and help me sell out and restock so I can bring you more goodies :) Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays!

Here are the rules:

Visit Lovelie and choose your favorite item(s) from the shop. Come back here and leave a comment along with your email address, mentioning your favorite item.
For an additional entry, link to this giveaway on your blog, come back here and post an additional comment with the link and your email address.
For an additional entry, tweet about this giveaway on Twitter, come back here and post an additional comment with the link and your email address.
For an additional entry, link to this giveaway on Facebook, come back here and post an additional comment with the link and your email address.
For even more entries, POST again (Blog, Twitter, Facebook) at any time later in the week, come back here and post an additional comment with the link and your email address.

**You may enter up to FIVE TIMES for FIVE CHANCES to win! Good luck!!!**

The winner will be randomly chosen and posted on the blog on Friday, December 10th...I will notify the winner via email with their exclusive code. Please help spread the word so everyone gets a fair chance :)

Sneak Peek

2010-08-13T10:01:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone! Just wanted to stop by and say hey. I'm still busy busy busy like a bee, but I wanted to throw together a little something so ya'll could see what I've been so busy doing lol. I never realized how much time it took to upkeep a web shop until I really started getting into it. All my life I've had web shops (my family and I used to run a T-shirt and screen printing business) but it was one of those mass produced type of things where you have a certain number of designs you do and thats it. But with vintage things, it's EVER-CHANGING! And I take pride in my shop so I want my pictures to be perfect. So I slave over them haha. I don't know if I'm putting too much into it or what. But I think I'm starting to develop a method of running this ship so I'm not haphazardly doing things. Is anyone else here an Etsy seller? Or someone who runs a web shop? If you have any tips at all, please please please do share haha. I have no problem admitting that I need help! And by all means, leave a link to your store! Other than that, HAPPY WEEKEND EVERYONE!

Babies & Bears - A Photoshoot

2010-08-11T23:28:00.000-07:00

Hey everyone. I can't believe its 2 am and I'm still up. I've been like a little choo choo train building, making, mending, cleaning, photographing..the list goes on. I'm re-stocking my shop and trying to get things in order now that I'm back in town. Anyway, in the midst of ALLL that, I stopped to "smell the roses." I had been photographing and staging things in my room, when my daughter woke up from her nap. She was being awfully cute so I decided to snap a few photos since I was in that mindset anyway. Well, I'm so glad I did, because I got some of the best photos of her I think I've ever gotten. The best part? In the photos I'm about to show you, she is holding my teddy bear, named "Corduroy." I got him when I was about three and took him everywhere and I slept with him all the time. Seriously, I was still clingy to this bear in the 4th grade (I know, at 9 years old it's a little weird huh?). I think I even cuddled with him when I was pregnant, on those stressful nights when I thought my whole world was going to topple on top of me and leave me buried in the rubble. Though I've grown apart from that bear, every now and then I look at him with her, and I think of that little sparkle in his eye I used to see. I guess you could say it just makes me happy; that a little piece of my childhood is seamlessly being woven into hers. My goodness I'm a sap, gettin' all misty and teary eyed over here! Oh well, I'm sure you momma's out there know this feeling too :) So I guess the moral of the story is, cliche as it may be, "Stop and smell the roses" and enjoy your children.

Adorable Vintage Baby Shower

2010-08-06T09:49:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone! I feel like I've been away from here for awhile..actually, scratch that, I KNOW I have been away from here for a while. Life just gets so busy, with so many things to do and it's like sometimes I don't know when to do what or how long to take doing it. And especially with this blogging thing, I tend to get lost in what I'm doing - really with any computer-related task I seem to get lost in the work (i.e. graphic design projects). Anyone else feel the same? Anyway, I was checking my twitter when I followed a link to this blog called Jen Loves Kev and I fell in love a little bit (understatement!). She's youthful, vibrant and fun-loving - oh and she's got a baby on the way. Which warms my heart because as you all know I have a little one :) Anyway, I know for sure it will be a site I will be frequenting. Well, as I was perusing her posts (and tearing up at the letters she and her husband write to their unborn baby girl) I came across a post about the baby shower they threw. And it looked FABULOUS! Check it out! (original post here)

(the expectant mommy & daddy)

How great is that party?? Right?? I love the old-fashioned vintage charm - and the outfits were pretty cute too (i.e denim, suspenders, hats). And the invitations were great! The type of thing I aspire to design to. You can tell someone put a lot of time and effort into this. It really is the small details that make get-together's memorable. Don't you just love those pickle jar labels? Oh and the mustaches!!! Ugh, what a great celebration. I wish the best for this young couple and their new little bundle :)

Image Source: Jen Loves Kev on Flickr

Ten Things I Learned this Month (July)

2010-08-03T10:40:00.000-07:00

Okay okay....mostly this month. But some of these are just things that I had to share. Come on, would you really want me keeping valuable information from you? I think not :)

Storing your batteries in a fridge or freezer can extend life, depending on battery type.

Alkaline batteries can lose up to 25% of their power a year if stored in a hot garage or attic.
Rechargeable batteries lose 1-2% of their charge every day at room temperature. Storing them in the freezer preserves about 90% of a charge in a month. (Better Homes and Gardens Publication: Storage, Summer 2010)

Making your own laundry detergent can be done in less than an hour and can cost you just a penny per load! Learn more here. (I myself have been doing this for a year or so now and it is so easy to make and very customizable since you choose what bar of soap to use)
Save money by buying gift cards for up to 30% off their face value at sites such as plasticjungle.com, giftcardrescue.com, and giftcardsagain.com (via AARP)
Are you a fan of pastels? The next time you're doing a small painting project, instead of buying a whole can of a particular color, buy a sample a few shades darker than the shade you want and mix it with that spare white paint you have at home. It should save you about $10 and you'll use up that paint that's lying around. (Personal tip)
Here's a two-fer-one on painter's tape:

After you've installed your molding, put the tape just a hair above where you're going to caulk to give you a straight line and no mess on the walls. (originally found here)
When you're trying to get a crisp line with painter's tape, first use very minimal paint on the brush (dry-brush) and go over the border of the tape. Then, on the second coat, you can apply more paint. The first coat creates a seal so the second coat doesn't seep through. (seen on HGTV)

If you've got kids, then you've probably had a virtual smackdown in the dining room over the subject of vegetables. In lieu of that, why don't you use a little smoke and mirrors and hide their veggies (in their food of course). Try this recipe which cleverly disguises cauliflower in mashed potates. For more 007 recipes, try Jessica Seinfeld's book Deceptively Delicious.
Ok ladies, I know we all have atleast one pair of "sacred" shoes. To preserve their "holiness" spray them with acrylic matte sealer, which can be purchased for as little as $4 and change. This way, when they get dirty, all you have to do is wipe clean! And no one will ever know :)
When cooking a casserole, use ceramic or glass baking dishes; these materials outperform metal and will allow you to lower the oven temperature by 25 degrees, saving both energy and money (via Danny Seo's Do Just One Thing Calendar)
Use a vintage apron as an organizer. Put mail, sunglasses, pens - whatever! - in the pockets and hang it across a door. Just tie the apron strings around the door and secure with double-sided tape. (Country Home February 2008)
Adding color to your room can sometimes be intimidating. Unless you are completely confident in you skills and taste, it's best to spend "big" money on pieces that are neutral, and instead bring in color with low-cost items. (Unknown)

Do you have any useful tips? Let me know and maybe I'll include it in my next tips post :) By the way, I realize I'm 3 days late but hey what can I say..better late than never right? haha

Image Sources:

Family (unknown), Paint (Twig Hutchinson), Clothesline (bal93 {new Icon})

Fresh like a lemon

2010-07-28T10:57:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone! I'm sorry for the absence these past few days - I'm always apologizing I know, but until I go back to school and work, and the rest of my life is on a nice decent schedule, this blogging thing is going to be pretty haywire too. And if you follow me on Twitter, you know that I've been having some medical issues recently (don't worry I'm ok now, thanks to free antibiotics from Publix). Anyway, here is a small does of refreshing inspiration for your day. While yellow isn't my absolute favorite color, lately I've been drawn to it, especially when paired with grays, black, and white. It's just so sophisticated that way, don't you think?

via Style at Home

via House and Home

via roomforcourt

via Hus & Hem

via h4ndz

via Apartment Therapy

Office Space - Inspiration & Organization Tips

2010-07-22T21:28:00.000-07:00

I've been thinking that my craft area needs a little healthy redo. It's pretty disorganized and just a jumbly-bumbly mess. So if any of you are thinking of re-organizing, re-doing, or anything of the sort, maybe these photos will help you. I've really learned to not just "oooooh" and "ahhhh" over photos, but to really study them. Look at how they use like boxes of the same color, or pegboard to organize frequently used items and keep them close at hand. See how they use both new and old cannisters, cans, baskets, and bins to corral items. Take a good look at these photos and see what you see.

via Chez Larsson

via Country Living

via Ideal Home Magazine

via Country Home

via A Field Journal

via Apartment Therapy

via House to Home

via Amor Designs

Feeling inspired? You may not be able to do it all today, but if you do have the day, try these quick tips to "prettify" your craft space!

Label EVERYTHING. Labeling is the easiest way to organize. No more guessing and you know exactly where it goes. Honestly, it seems like a no-brainer, but I just recently started to realize (duh!) the power of a label. Find some gorgeous (and free!) printable ones here, here, or here.
Have a bunch of mis-matched shoe boxes? Try spray painting them all the same color. They may be different shapes/sizes, but a uniform color will help unite them. Or if you feel up to it, wrap them in a pretty wrapping paper or contact paper. When you're done, tag on a label or some metal label holders, which you can typically find in the scrapbooking section at your local craft store (as seen here)
Get in the habit of corralling items in containers. I have found (yes, yet another duh moment) that it makes life so much simpler when everything is contained within a little box. And a plus-side to this: it instantly makes items mobile.
Go shopping in your china cabinet. Apothecary jars, mason jars, tall/wide cylindrical vases, bowls, saucers - even gravy boats! - can make great containers for buttons, paintbrushes, colored pencils, etc.
Recycle! Use old soup cans, coffee cans, pasta sauce jars, jam jars - whatever you have - to hold things. Just give them a fresh coat of paint and maybe wrap some pretty scrapbook paper around it.
If you're a magazine ~~hoard~~ lover like me, you probably need a place (make that a big place!) to store them. You can either:

Flip through your precious mags and tear out your favorite pages. Store them in a binder inside clear protective sheets. I usually sit down with some post-its and write down what I like about each particular page. Another good practice would be to keep a piece of paper with any websites/stores you would like to look up later or just have on file. Then, comes the hardest part which I still haven't done yet: throw away the rest :( or...
Leave the aforementioned project for another day and make some DIY magazine files. Check out these holders which use cardboard boxes wrapped in paper from Apartment Therapy. Or what about these genius cereal box version?

The basic idea is to see what you have in a different light. Maybe you have an old dish drainer you're not using just stored away. Pull it out and spray paint it a nice happy color and use it to hold your mail an put pens in the silverware holder. "Use what you have" as my momma always tells me :) And if you think you need some new stuff, go garage saling! You can find so many neat dishes and caddies and it'll cost you next to nothing. Anyway, I hope some of those ideas got your creative juices flowing for some quick organization - in your creative space and the rest of your home.

Do you have any organization tips? Would you like to share your creative space with me? I'd love to hear from you :) Leave me a comment below :) and HAPPY FRIDAY!!

Clever DIY

2010-07-22T11:07:00.000-07:00

I typically try to publish all original/originally curated material on here and not to simply repost, buuuuut....I found a really awesome tutorial that I wanted to share with you guys. I just thought it was so ingenious. It's great for those of you who have a tight budget but would like to update those old linoleum/vinyl floors from the 70's. Caution though, it is for extreme DIY-ers. Learn more here.

via Apartment Therapy

Bzzzzy like a bee!

2010-07-21T11:49:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone! Just popping in real quick to say hi and let you know that I'm here, but I'm busy busy busy. The lovely Miss Danni of Oh, Hello Friend is accepting buttons for her official blogroll (here) so I've been agonizing over THE perfect button. I should've just had one in the bag, ready for this moment whenever it came. But alas, I am one of those girls who isn't always prepared (but not to worry, that's on my revamp list for 2010! if not 2011 0_0). I've also gotta finish up that moodboard (in which I've hit a rut). Anywho, as you can tell, I've got lots of things to do, so I must be going now! Hope you're having a good day! And do something good for yourself today wouldja? Even if it's technically "bad" for you ;) Such as eating one of these...mmmmmmm

via The Cherry Blossom Girl

Bathrooms Bathed in Beauty

2010-07-19T06:49:00.000-07:00

I love bathrooms. You can really have a lot of fun designing a bathroom if you open yourself up to the possibilities. There are so many options to choose from between flooring, wall coverings, fixtures, lighting, and furniture. I enjoy a good challenge and bathrooms are pretty good places to be faced with that. You have to be sure to fit as much storage as you can within what's usually a small space, be sure you use easy to clean surfaces and textures, provide adequate lighting for various tasks, and infuse your own sense of personal style all at the same time.

via Country Living

(love the utility-esque light above the sink!)

via Vintage Simple

(delicious texture throughout - love the floor tile! You should see the rest of this lady's house too. I got a lot of inpsiration from her for decorating my house:])

via Better Homes and Gardens

via Country Living

via KitchenBathIdeas

via House and Home

(I love how the bottom two-thirds of the room is white with splashes of teal on the bathtub and sink and how the teal is echoed up at the top. I think if the walls were done half-white, half-teal then it wouldn't have been as successful - the tub and sink wouldn't pop as much and they would be in competition with the color on the wall.)

via House and Home

As I looked through these pictures, I realized that there are seven things I am absolutely in love with in a bathroom:

Subway tile
Hexagon tile
Beadboard
Fresh colors
Unexpected furniture pieces
Unique storage (vintage caddies, baskets, etc.)
Unusual tubs or sinks (such as the colored ones pictured)

What are your must-have's in a bathroom? Any dream ideas you have for a bathroom? I've always thought it would be nice to have a nice big spa tub in the middle of the room with french doors in front of it opening up onto a balcony. That way, I can soak and enjoy the beautiful countryside and hear the birds chirping all at the same time. Then afterwards, in my bathrobe, I can go out onto the balcony and eat a lovely little breakfast - a homemade belgian waffle accompanied by some fresh fruit. Sounds like bliss doesn't it? One day...one day :)

Artisan White

2010-07-15T11:04:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone! How is your day going? Good I hope. I thought I'd do a quick little post on some things I came by today. Lately I have been just inexplicably drawn to white. I love how when something is white, it allows the form to speak for itself. The texture, the shape, whether it is shiny or matte - it's all put on display. It's a beautiful thing, I think. Take a look at the pieces below and I think you'll agree.

via Yulia Brodskaya

via Alyssa Ettinger

I had heard of Alyssa Ettinger before and thought I'd share. I know a lot of you probably have heard of her, but I figured hey, maybe there is one person who hasn't and would like to see her beautiful pottery. I think it is so clever what she has come up with. It's so simple but sooo incredibly pretty. And Yulia! I have a lot of respect for anybody who does paper art. It is a lot of intricate cutting and you really have to develop a skill for it. It's not like painting or drawing where you can cover something up - one slip of the blade and it's ruined. My favorite piece of hers has to be the first one, "The Magic is in the Telling."

Do any of you have a favorite artist of any kind? I'd love to know :) Let me know and I'll definitely be sure to check them out!

Shopping: Pretty things

2010-07-14T14:28:00.000-07:00

Ahh! [Hi everyone] My mind is going crazzzzy over here. I have so much to do and not enough time to get it done. You know that treasure trove of junk I bought in Mt. Dora? Well I haven't been able to hardly TOUCH it, let alone take pictures of it since I got home. And to make matters worse, I have to go back to Orlando for one last (2 week) visit before the Summer is over. I can't wait to get back here and be here for GOOD! Anywho, I've been racking my brains all morning trying to figure out what in the heck to post about. I'm still working on that mood board I was talking about in the last post, but I don't see it being done until either tomorrow or Friday. So I decided I'd show you guys all the pretty things that have been catching my eye lately. I've been doing a lot of research (read: online window-shopping) for the RV Project, and I've seen soooo many pretty things I love but just plain don't need, but hey, maybe you do! So come along for a little shopping trip with me :) Enjoy and have a great day!!

1. Teal Rug 2. Whale Chalkboard 3. Trash Pail 4. Floral Sugar Bowl 5. Book/Magazine Holder 6. Floral Datebook 7. Birdie Picture Frame 8. Doily Coaster 9. Dish Rack 10. Pink Cakestand 11. Floral Dress 12. Lace Catchall 13. Cuckoo Clock 14. Drawer Liner 15. Bamboo Clock 16. Tea Towel

Inspiring makeovers

2010-07-12T11:52:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone!!! I have missed you all :) Sorry for last week's absence. I quickly realized I wouldn't be getting anything done with and adorable set of kids running around - and I really didn't want to lose any time with them either. But I'm back now! And...now I must let you in on the surprise project :) My dad bought an RV and it's as old as me (20). Soooo, I convinced him (yes, convinced!) that he should let me take care of the decorating and the more cosmetic DIY projects. I'm so darn excited! It's like being able to decorate a whole house by myself. So, for today's inspiration - and yes, I know, not all of you have caravans or RV's or campers - let's take some cues from a handful of beautiful mobile spaces that show that it's not the size that matters, but the style!

annnnnd some more....

1. My Vintage Party 2. Happy Loves Rosie 3. FINN Travel 4. Rose Vine Cottage Two 5. Bodrifty

In my research, I found that it's common for people to buy old trailers and basically refurbish them into sheds, backyard hangouts and creative work areas. Cool huh? What do you think of these spaces? Do you have a favorite?

Anyway, I've been working on a moodboard for our camper (side-story: it's been dubbed the "bucko van" because my dad always called my nephew bucko, and he therefore became papa bucko, and thus the van, according to a two year old, is called the bucko van haha) and I want your help! I will post it sometime this week and I hope to get lots of input and maybe some cool ideas. Get your brains working on organization and storage ideas too! Oh and one last thing:

happy 2nd birthday to my beautiful little girl cheyenne!!! the [little] love of my life :)

A passion for packaging

2010-07-06T20:02:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone :) Hope you all had a good weekend. I'm sort of at a loss for words today - I have so much I'd like to talk about but have not been able to fully devote time to one topic or another - which is a bummer because I have lots of cool stuff to talk about! Right now I'm back home from Orlando and my sister-in-law and nephew are here so I've been a little preoccupied with that. Butttt, I will tell you that I have a new project! And hopefully you all will get to enjoy the transformation with me :D More about that coming soon (I know, I know, I always leave you hanging :P)..Anyway, onto today's inspiration. I've been on a little graphic design kick (but can you blame me?? it's kind of in my blood :P) Enjoy!

1. Cath Kidston 2. Mor Cosmetics 3. Victoria's Secret 4. Beekman 1802 5. Urban Rituelle 6. J.R. Watkins 7. Lollia 8. The Art of Shaving 9. Nostalgia Organics 10. Laduree 11. All the Better to Kiss You With 12. Prada

Inspiration: Feminine & French

2010-07-01T19:23:00.000-07:00

I know it sounds so cliche, but I really do want to go to Paris. The only thing I think I'm afraid of is that if I go, it might not live up to my expectations. To me, Paris is like this dreamy, magical place where every woman feels like a little girl again - yet a sophisticated woman at the same time. It's like....do you remember when you were little? And you wanted so much to be like women in the movies or the magazines? You played dress-up and had tea parties and even if you weren't always graceful and sophisticated, if you believed you were, you really were. I guess that's how I think of Paris. A place of fanciful dreams, where a woman can be both sensual and yet maintain a sense of youth and innocence at the same time. But you wanna know what I think is the most beautiful thing about French women? Their confidence.

I think that is something we could all use. I know lately I've been poking and prodding at myself, but as I observed a young woman today (who was a little more than curvy) I thought, "She's prettier than me." Number one: I shouldn't be comparing myself to others - why do I need to do that? And number two: I realized why I thought she was pretty - because I could tell she thought she was pretty. Lesson of the day: embrace yourself for who you are - yes, "imperfections" and all - because when you do, you will glow - I promise you. So ladies, take a look at yourself in the mirror today, and tell yourself, "I am beautiful!" Heck, write it ON your mirror - I did ^_^

via .neha.

via gabriela rousseau

via flowerfawn

via Inspire Once More

via MaD Gi®L•™

via andrea singerella

via knight cat

via caesar sebastian

via nikole herriott

via jasminee

via La Vie en Rose

By the way, I apologize for the late post! Crazy weather today and the internet here sucks! But I hope you enjoyed those photos :) Have a pleasant evening!

PS: Have to claim my blog via bloglovin' >>> Follow my blog with bloglovin

For the love of print!

2010-06-30T07:24:00.000-07:00

So on my quest for gorgeous stationery and paper goods for the last post, I came across many a lovely poster & print. Inside I was like, "Arrgh, typography? Posters? Stationery? PICK ONE!" So, to make everybody happy (okay okay, mostly myself - but you'll be happy too I think) I bookmarked all my favorite posters and prints I came across and decided to share their deliciousness with you - and yes, I do believe a poster can be delicious ^_^ So on that note, bon appetit!

Sources:

1. Fancy a cup of tea? 2. Tasty Pig 3. Sip of Creativitea 4. Please and Thank You 5. Pink Ice Cream 6. Make Do & Mend 7. Handmade Happiness 8. Bedtime Busroll 9. happy happy 10. Thrifting 11. Slice of Pie 12. Go with the Flow 13. Goodnight John Boy 14. Not all who wander... 15. GIVE 16. Cozy Love 17. So very happy

In other news...what an amaaaazing day I had yesterday. Andy, Cheyenne and I went downtown to the historical district for some antique shopping and boy oh boy did we hit the jackpot! We were driving down one of those parallel parking only type streets trying to find a good place to park next to a good store - anything we could find - when I saw two of my favorite words: CLOSING SALE, to which my immediate reaction was "Oh! Oh! Let's go there! Over there!" So two u-turns and one whoops-we-made-a-wrong-turn detour later, we were inside the shop asking prices and piling stuff in a box. I spent 40 dollars and got a TON of treasures. I got a whole set of beautiful vintage dishes for three bucks. Let me say that again, THREE BUCKS! A lot of things were 5 and under and I think the most expensive thing I bought was a really pretty and interesting yellow floral bread box for $15. It was like Christmas (almost in July) :)

What about you? Do you have a favorite find that you got for a steal of a deal? If so, tell me about it! There's something that feels so great about sharing the thrill of your bargain treasure, isn't there? Anyway, I hope you all are having a fantastic day :) And thank you for all the love you have been sending! It's really great to get some positive reenforcement :D

Oh Happy Day :) and some Pretty Paper Good[ie]s

2010-06-28T16:06:00.000-07:00

Ok, so first things first, gotta give a humongous THANK YOU to Heather of Gathering Spriggs. She featured my blog here along with a beautiful, completely flattering and sweet little post. I'm just as happy as a clam :) Heather has a lovely blog herself, full of gorgeousness and if you haven't checked it out yet (what are you waiting for?!) then now is as perfect a time as ever :)

Now about my weekend. I went to Renninger's antique flea market in Mount Dora, FL - my first legit flea market (sorry I don't count dollar store items as a flea market - for real, when did that happen??) - and I found a lot of cool stuff :D I talked to a lot of really nice people (and some a little bit crazy [read: drunk] haha!) and spread some Etsy love while I was at it. I was especially touched by one vendor's generosity. When I told her I just started selling things on Etsy, she started just giving me little odds and ends, telling me they were gifts from her to me - so sweet :) I told her I would come back and visit becaaaausssee (and here's the exciting part!) when I come back to Orlando in a week and a half, Renninger's is having their big monthly flea market fair. YAY! Maybe I'll remember to bring along my camera this time and take some pictures of the fabulous junk (anyone else reading this go nuts over rows and rows of ~~junk~~ treasure??) And for those of you wondering what I bought...I'm gonna hafta go ahead and pull a Ryan Seacrest on you - you're gonna hafta wait 'til I get back home down South and can take some pretty pictures in my "studio" err, room :)

Now for today's delicious eye candy (yummy!). For no real particular reason, except my love of typography and hand-drawn illustration, I decided today would be about some pretty paper goods.

Sources:
1. Eiffel Tower 2. Anniversary Birdies 3. Birthday Skywriting Card 4. Happy Bee-day 5. Tree with Deer and Birds
6. Beauty Rush 7. Happy Birday 8. Mason Jar of Flowers Thank You Notecard
9. Illustrated Birthday Cards 10. Blue and Grey Congratulations Card 11. Happy Birthday Owl
12. Green Vine Birthday Card 13. G'day Mate 14. Cake Congratulations Card 15. Blackbird Card Set 16. Superior Mom Card 17. Airplane - Change of Address

Ok, so I'm bragging...

2010-06-25T11:57:00.000-07:00

Hi there! I know I said I was off 'til Monday, but as I was taking my leisurely "stroll" through all my favorite blogs, I suddenly remembered - I have pictures from Cheyenne's Birthday party from last year! Yes, almost a year later (her birthday is July 12th) I am posting the pictures from her first birthday party (shame on me). So I just wanted to share them because I SLAVED over this party. Nothing went untouched. I was very meticulous about every little detail. Seriously. I even made a 12 layer cake in honor of each month. And a ruffle cake....and some cupcakes. It was fun and I loved it! But this year...let's just say we're going to have a nice, quiet, relaxing time with the family. Not 50 people! Here are the photos :) enjoy!

I know the picture quality isn't necessarily wonderful, but it is what it is :P I had a lot of fun doing it and (I won't say I "can't wait" because Lord knows I can :)) I look forward to throwing many more girly parties for her when she's older and hopefully can appreciate it more :) Oh, and if anyone is interested in the recipe for the twelve-layer cake, you can find it here :) HAPPY WEEKEND!

Today I love: Swedish Style

2010-06-24T19:55:00.000-07:00

I really can't remember when Ikea came to town, but it did around about the same time I started to discover all these interior design blogs, and my style and taste in design became more distinct and I developed a better eye for these things. Since then, I have grown to love Swedish design. I admire the way they live in such tight quarters and make everything work. They let no space go to waste. And have you ever noticed how youthful Swedish interiors look? There's such a beautiful simplicity and playfulness about them. They're not afraid of some bright colors or quirky accessories. But my utmost favorite aspect of their style is the way everything is so light, white, airy and fresh - and when you add those pops of color, it's simply wonderful!

via madebygirl

via car-moebel

via craft & creativity

via moonzaiek

via the style files

via decor8

via yvestown

via It's Great to be Home

Sorry for the half-a$$ed posts - my attention is being stretched every which way while I'm visiting up here! I'm trying to be consistent though. Anyway, I'm signing off until Monday. Have a great Friday and a wonderful weekend! And if you're like me, good luck hitting up those garage sales :D

Photo Inspiration - Magical & Moody

2010-06-23T19:36:00.000-07:00

This is going to be a short little post. I had planned a summer-themed post in honor of the official start of summer (although its just about all year round here in Florida), but the internet has been in and out all day today here -__- Anyhow, here's some photo inspiration I tried to throw together rather quickly. I stumbled upon the Flickr page of a young lady named Eleanor (Elle) Hardwick (see her website here), and thought I would share these dreamy, somewhat moody photographs with you :) Enjoy!

all photos via lenaah

Mandy Lynne Photography

2010-06-21T09:11:00.000-07:00

Oh. My. Goodness.

When I stumbled across this lovely lady's photography, I was literally in love with every shot. The way she captures the light, and just the most beautiful, heart-tugging moments...it's just breathtaking. All of her photos have that vintage feel and the colors - oh the colors! - they are just fantastic. I could probably pull 150989035298+ amaaaaaaaazing color palettes out of the photos she takes. The perfection of her photos leaves me speechless. The styling of every shot is spot-on, yet it looks completely unplanned - like it just happened that way and she just so happened to have the camera ready. When I look at her photos, it makes me wish that we could see everything like this!

all photos via mandy lynne

Isn't her work just divine?? I think I am especially drawn to the photos that capture the light of the sun - so dreamy! And her ability to coordinate color is exceptional. She has really inspired me. So much so, that while I'm up here in beautiful Orlando, I'm going to drag CheyChey and her daddy to some local parks for a photo session...or two...or three. Time to go to some thrift stores and get some cute vintage-style clothing. Maybe I'll even get some photos good enough to post on here :)

If you'd like to see more from this wonderfully talented woman, you can find her here. Her portfolio isn't just a little teaser that leaves you wanting more - it's got a lot of photos and it's organized into seven categories by style for easy viewing. Head on over and take a look! And let me know what you think! Have a great day!

Wishing I had a vintage suitcase...

2010-06-17T13:44:00.000-07:00

Because I'm going out of town for a couple weeks :) My daughter and I are going to visit her daddy and his family. It'll be nice to get away from everything that just happened. Plus, he always takes me garage sailing (do any of you call it that? I never thought much of it 'til somebody laughed at me! haha) and for some reason, Orlando garage sales kick a$$ lol. Well, atleast they kick South Florida garage sale a$$ : P Oh and the antique stores up there? Uhhh-mayyy-ziiiing. So look forward to some fabulous vintage finds in the store pretty soon :)

Anyway, I'll be on here even more erratically than I normally am (oh Lord!) since I will be up there and every day we're doing something different. And without further ado, here are some inspiring photos of pretty vintage luggage. Doesn't a day in the countryside sound nice? PS if anyone knows where the photos are from, please let me know!

source unknown

via SarahMoldovan

via sheenalu

via dandeliondaydream

source unknown

Color Study - Soft, dreamy pinks

2010-06-15T08:00:00.000-07:00

Oh dear, quite possibly my favorite color. It's the color of femininity and flowers. Just the thought of the color leaves a sweet little smile on my face. No really, it does...haha! Perhaps it's because it transports me back to a time when Penny the doll and Mr. Humphrey the bear were frequent and acceptable guests for tea & cookies, the light reflected off of watches, mirrors, and glass was a dancing fairy, and the droopy umbrella tree in the front yard was a magical "house" where I made "pies" and "cakes" and "fairy food." Isn't it funny how a single color and bring back so many vivid memories? So here's a little tribute to one of my favorite colors, enjoy!

1.ps.iloveyou 2. skblanks 3. BettysKitschen 4. EmmaDear 5. JackieRueda 6. YvetteInufio 7. lindatinne

8. yerinmok 9. eg2006 10. freudianslipsvintage 11. rei-san 12. blossomhillcotton

13. white--light 14. PJ Taylor Photo 15. ♥ Moa Maria 16. lifelovepaper

Etsy Finds - Fit for a Princess...and a little news and reflection

2010-06-10T21:43:00.000-07:00

So, yesterday was a long day. My uncle passed away very unexpectedly at age 44 due to a heart attack. He left behind a wife and 6 kids. It was very sad. Their mother was hysterical and crying so my mom brought me the two youngest, Emily (11) and Jesse (13), to spend time at the house with me and my daughter. I don't see them all that often, but when the front door opened, they came running at me with smiles on their faces, exclaiming "Ellie!!" and they each gave me a big long squeezy hug. It melted my heart (and I'm tearing up as I write this). It's so sad that those kids won't have their father :( ... I don't think it's really quite hit them yet. Emily was sitting in an easy chair watching Cheyenne color, and she said, "Your mom says that she's gonna buy me new furniture for my room, because my daddy promised he would get it for me for my birthday. But he can't because you know, he's gone now." I wanted to cry. The way she said it just sounded so helpless.

They told me about their schools (they aren't very good schools - nor is their neighborhood) and what grade they were going into. Emily says she wants to go to a different school - because it's an A+ school. Jesse wants to be a doctor. They kept expressing how much they loved my house and how they wish they could live in a house like this - now let me tell you, the house I live in is nice, but it is NOTHING fancy. I sat there, watching them swing and play with Cheyenne, just wishing I could do something for them, pay for their education, give them a beautiful house, SOMETHING! These kids (all of them) are so sweet, and well-behaved, and loving despite their circumstances, and they have big dreams and aspirations to boot.

As soon as some things get worked out (they may lose their house, we don't know what's going to happen yet), I'm going to start doing research on local charities or maybe even see if abc can do anything like maybe extreme home makeover or one of those "rescue" shows. If anyone reading this has any good ideas or can point me in the right direction PLEASE let me know. Thank you!

Now, what brought me to this theme today for Etsy finds? Well, Emily found out about my etsy shop (she requested a sweet baby pink chalkboard - my specialty!) and she saw my room and she also found out that I love interior design and wanted to go to school for it, so she said, "I want you to design my room!" so I'm going to design a beautiful little room fit for a beautiful little princess :') (I really am teary eyed right now).

Enjoy your day and tell your loved ones that they are just that: loved.

1. madeinlowell 2. frippelous 3. turquoiseshed 4. lovemaestore 5. MyLittleBigChair 6. shabbyvintagemom
7. marygraceje wellery 8. evajuliet 9. gingerschoice 10. emmiscottageetsy 11. OtherSuchNonsense
12. littlepinkstudio 13. thisneckofthewoods 14. orangeberrybaby 15. ShugabeeLane 16. Advintagous

Uber-cool performance on America's Got Talent

2010-06-08T21:06:00.000-07:00

Howie took the words right out of my mouth. When I watched them, I was like, "Whoa whoa Blue Man Group! You better watch out!" These guys are UH-MAAAAZING!!!! I would totally go see these guys perform live. Can you imagine how awesome it would be??

Color Study - A softer shade of yellow

2010-06-08T19:03:00.000-07:00

A color that I have grown to love. It conjures up feelings up warmth and sunshine, spring and summer. It is a burst of optimism, energy, and youth. It's cozy, warm and inviting and yet still remains fresh. It's also very versatile depending on what color you pair it with. So I hope this happy color leaves you with a smile upon your face :) Enjoy!

1. knackstudio 2. AlicesLookingGlass 3. warmwhispers 4. hulaseventy 5. A Field Journal 6. daisies 7. VintagePaperWorks 8. kategreiner 9. SallyJaneVintage 10. EmmaDear 11. source unknown 12. Saori_

Fabric Tape ♥

2010-06-05T12:36:00.000-07:00

So when I first saw this on Creature Comforts, I must admit, I was less than excited. Fabric tape? Woo hoo. What's the big deal? It's fabric that's sticky. So basically glued fabric. But then...well, then I found this:

all images via nothingelegant on etsy

And realized....WHOA! LOOK AT ALL THE POSSIBILITIES!!! Think about how easy it would be to, on a whim, just slap it on whatever the heck you want. No cutting fabric scraps and gluing and waiting and smoothing bubbles and worrying about frayed edges. Just peel, snip, stick, and swooooon. Use it on shelf edges for a vintage feel, glass candle votives for a lovely glow, decorating lamp shades...the possibilities are endless. If you would like to purchase some of these gorgeous fabric tapes, just head on over here. This lovely lady also carries many other [paper] masking tapes, stamps, stationary, craft supplies, fabric - you name it! And everything is interesting and unique and so exquistely photographed.

Now, if you're like me, you're on a budget or you're just plain cheap. And at this point, my mother (over the years) has collected a sh!t ton of lace and scraps of fabric n' things...so, instead of spending more money that I don't have, I think I'm going to "work with what I have" as my mom always says :) And thanks to Kathrin over at annekata we have this great D.I.Y. Fabric Tape Tutorial.

So whether you're going to buy the tape or make it, I think it's a great concept and something that any crafty person should have on hand. It makes it a snap to spruce up just about anything and it's oh so lovely!

Hello again dear blog world

2010-05-31T18:50:00.000-07:00

I'm alive! It's been almost a year since I've posted on here. Let me just say, growing up into your 20s and out of you're teens is kind of difficult when you're splitting yourself between your daughter, family, work, school, and blogging and such. Anyway, it's summer, I'm off and you...whoever you are...will be hearing from me here and there.

Well, I'm watching a movie w/ my family now, so off I go!

EDIT: so, movie was a no-go. started watching mr. brooks. mmm not for me OR my family lol...but anyway, i'm watching tv and surfing the net and all of a sudden, THIS came on tv:

Am I the only one who finds this funny - no, no, HILARIOUS - and bizarre all at the same time?? The music is catchy too isn't it? And my my does that little boy have a swagger hahaha! But really, I find these rather...um...well....pointless. For those of us mommas that use disposable diapers, is it safe to say that we don't really care what they look like as long as they get the job done? What do you think? Will you be buying the new jean diapers? Or will you pass them up for the less expensive alternative?

So sorry!

2009-06-16T10:11:00.001-07:00

I know I just disappeared off the face of the earth, but things have been just....weird around here! Now that I'm the only one home with the baby, I've got a lot more on my plate. Oh and for those of you who know about that, I'm still with him, but he's on thin ice. If he screws this up, it's over - and he knows it. So basically, he's in "bootcamp." He has to go to a counselor, get a job, finish school and get his act together if he wants to come back.

ANYways my daughter's birthday party is coming up and I've been planning and doing everything I can. I'm trying to do a lot of DIY projects - which, at the moment (before those stupid people selling crap called and woke Cheyenne up) I'm in the middle of. I'm making a cupcake stand - but not for cupcakes. It's going to be for deli meat! It's gonna look good. Trust me. Now that I said that, I'm doubting myself haha. Anyway, it's gonna be kind weird these next few weeks, but I'll try to scrunch in some goodies for you all to look at. And there will definitely be pictures of her party :)

So, as I always seem to be saying: Bear with me! Hope everyone's having a great day!

Eye Candy!

2009-06-01T08:29:00.000-07:00

I've heard of The Cherry Blossom Girl before. In fact, when the blogging bug first bit me, her blog was the second or third I looked at. For one reason or another, though, I sort of forgot about her. Anywho, I rediscovered her again, and boy am I glad. She's a girl after my own heart. She's fashionable, she's got her own thing going on, and yet she keeps that girly, dreamy feel about her. The photos she takes reminds me of Marie Antoinette amongst all her cakes and treats and dresses and shoes and baubles and things. Ahhhhh :) Just take a look at her awesome photography.

all photos via the cherry blossom girl

The short story about me...

2009-05-28T19:28:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow is a sad day for me.

Two short years ago, when I was 17, I fell in love with this guy...and I got pregnant. He was my first. And I loved (still love) him and he loved (still loves) me and we knew we would get married. He lived 3 hours away and would come down to see me every 2 weeks and then every weekend. He was 19 and in college when I got pregnant. When school was over and I was 7 months pregnant, he came to live with my family and I. The whole journey was an amazing experience. I've grown so much as a person because of it. Where I used to be weak and naive, I have become strong and smart. I had to grow up fast, but I love my little girl so much and I would never have it any other way.

So why am I sad you ask?

My fiance, her daddy, hasn't gotten a job. He lives here and survives off of financial aid from school. And when that runs out, mommy and daddy come to the rescue. I've put up with it for far too long. And the small amount of money my parents require him to pay for "rent" just isn't enough anymore. Aside from money, there are some other issues between us - primarily his selfish tendencies and lack of maturity.

I know you must be thinking, "She loves this guy?" I do. And that's why tomorrow (and today for that matter) is so sad. I know that I am the only one he wants to be with and that he loves me and he ADORES his little girl...but true love means sacrifice and I don't see that. My father gave me 10 days to tell him that he needed to go home (because of the finances) and I waited the full 10 days. So tomorrow, I'm sending him back home. It's a separation. He can visit us monthly. Hopefully he'll get a job and start to grow up. Start to be a man. He's 21 for God's sake! And if not........need I say more?

If anyone is reading this, please I ask you to pray for us. Hopefully he'll grow up, but I'm not counting on it :(

So, sorry to be all melancholy and full of angst but I'm going through a rough time. I doubt you'll hear from me tomorrow. Hope all is well with everyone - and don't worry, this sad post is a one-time thing.

I ♥ flowers

2009-05-28T14:46:00.000-07:00

"One flower at a time, please
however small the face,
Two flowers are one flower
too many, a distraction.
Three flowers in a vase
begin to be a little noisy.
Like cocktail conversation,
everybody talking.
A crowd of flowers is a
crowd of flatterers (forgive me)
One flower at a time,
I want to hear what it is saying."
- "Bouquets" by Robert Francis

I found this quote in another new book I bought - Style By Nature from Better Homes and Gardens. When I read it, I was thinking, "Hmmm, that's actually pretty true!" I'd much rather have some delphiniums sitting in a mason jar than a 5-flowered Publix bouquet in a vase (don't tell my father that though - he'd feel bad!). So, since I don't feel too good, I thought I'd continue with the flower theme and just post some pretty photos. Enjoy!

by concrete and honey

by Gabriella.Kai.Photography

by Yvette Inufio

by sapaho

from Blissful Images

Such pretty flowers! I wish they grew like that here in South Florida - ours are so yucky. Anyways, I have another book, called The House in Bloom by Judy Spours, and it's actually kinda cool. It has a ton of different color palettes based on different flowers, how are interiors try to capture the different nuances of a certain flower - whether it be through architecture, textiles, ceramics, or furnishings - and it explains the history behind different trends like chintz (which I love), victorian florals, different colors and their meaning, and more. It's very interesting and it has lots of inspirational photos. And, the best part? I got it for $5.99 at one of my favorite stores: Tuesday Morning. Does anyone else have that store near them? If not, do you have a favorite "best kept secret" type store?

Oh and just a little tip I learned a loooong time ago from a florist: If you are doing some type of an arrangement - whether it be one type of flower or less - always keep an odd number. Trust me, it works EVERY time. Even for other arrangements of different items. For some [ironic] reason, odd numbers keep things balanced. Try it!

Apologies

2009-05-28T10:13:00.000-07:00

I apologize to anyone that's been checking back here and finding nothing. I'm having a rough week. My baby girl and I both have a terrible cold and we're not feelin too peachy. It's a rough week for me - emotionally as well...I'll have to explain that one later. Anyways, if I'm feeling up to it, I might post a little something for you to look at and enjoy later :) Hope you're all doing well.

Oh and I'm going to sound like such a little girl, but Holly Becker of decor8 actually came here and looked at my blog and said a few nice things to me and it absolutely made my day! If you don't know who that is, check out the decor8 link on the left column over there <---- :) I absolutely love her blog and it's one I frequent a lot. There are always great links to great places and gorgeous photos - trust me, she's one you have to bookmark if you haven't already.

Jane Cumberbatch & Atlanta Bartlett

2009-05-26T13:24:00.000-07:00

I recently bought the book Decorating Easy by Jane Cumberbatch and The Relaxed Home by Atlanta Bartlett. I absolutely love them! I read them all the time. There's so many beautiful pictures and helpful tidbits of information. Today I'd like to share some photos and decorating tips from both books with you.

via Jane's website

Probably the most informative and generally useful chapter of Decorating Easy is Pearls of Wisdom. The following are some of Jane's pieces of advice (some in my own words) that I have adopted as my own decorating "theories."

Be patient! Wait for sales to find bargains on things like sheets, throws, saucepans, and other longlasting items.
Don't hold on to EVERYTHING! Get rid of anything you don't love to death or anything that clashes with your style statement.
Buy tough, washable fabrics like canvas and cotton ticking.
Choose wall paint that can easily wiped down.
Instead of synthetic materials, go for natural textures: soft wool blankets; thick, fluffy cotton towels; crisp cotton sheets; wooden countertops; waxed wood floors and; smooth stainless steel kitchen appliances.
And for people who use beige on the walls: Beige like colors should be allowed only in items that are naturally beige, such as soft wool blankets and woven baskets.

A comment on the last bullet there: my mother uses beige and I hate it! Creamy white (like off-white) I think is fine, but after reading that part in the book, I have to agree. Beige tends to be boring and almost makes the room look dirty and dark. No beige please!

and now for Atlanta Bartlett!

via Atlanta's website

For me, The Relaxed Home is more of an inspiration book than a tip book - kinda like looking at a mood board. In the introduction, she lists the five styles of the "Relaxed Look" and their characterstics:

"Relaxed Simplicity is the pure, distilled face of relaxed living, while Relaxed Romantic shows you its floral, feminine side. Relaxed Sensuality gives you the excuse to indulge in an array of different textures, colors, scents, and shapes; but if you want a more sophisticated look and a touch of class, choose Relaxed Elegance. Finally there is Relaxed Eclectic - idiosyncratic and humorous, it is the look to opt for if you love many different things and your cabinets are full of impulse buys."

I seriously recommend adding these books to your design/style collection. They have made a fantastic addition to mine. Hope you enjoyed this little glimpse into their books and maybe it inspired you in some way :) Oh and if anyone is interested in the photographers...

Jane Cumberbatch: Jenny Zarins

Atlanta Bartlett: Polly Wreford

Current color combo I'm loving

2009-05-22T15:42:00.001-07:00

A salute to my favorite color combo: Pinks&Blues, originally uploaded by le_479.

1. prettier, 2. TwigHutchinson-Stylist, 3. pretty blue things, 4. Luxe, 5. Untitled, 6. Untitled, 7. Untitled, 8. Untitled, 9. First flowers of spring from the front yard, 10. Pink Cheeks, 11. elegant, 12. desk area, 13. girl with sweets, 14. marie antoinette, 15. ugh, 16. fresh

Right now, I'm absolutely in love with these colors! My rooms is kind of a greenish blue - like the color of the sky in that first photo - and I'm trying to find ways to incoporate pinks. I don't know why I love this combo so much. I guess it just reminds me of like sweets and cupcakes and little girl things. What color combos do you like at the moment? I'd love to know :)

Anywho, I did a lot of research today (who knew it could take so much?) to find pretty photos - definitely not going to be an everyday thing [I barely socialized with my family! Baddddd I know] and came across two photographers I really, really liked. Hopefully, I can get ahold of them for an interview and post some of their lovely photos. There are a few in the collage above, but I want to give each of them their own special posting :)Until then, I'll just leave you with their names and links:

Shana Rae

Yvette Inufio

and a favorite of mine: Twig Hutchinson [stylist]

Enjoy!

In the beginning...

2009-05-21T14:40:00.000-07:00

I doubt anyone is reading this right now - well, you know, now as in right after I post this - but I've gotta start somewhere right? I have no idea how I'm gonna pull this off, but hey I can try right?

You're probably wondering what I'm talking about huh?

Ok, here we go: I'm 19 years old and I have a 10 month old little girl. It's summer now, and I'm home with her all day (love love love it!). I started sewing and what not while she sleeps and I'm putting it all on etsy. But, as I've found, I can't just rely on putting my stuff out there and getting it to sell.............that's where this comes in.

I'm doing this blog in the hopes that I'll get noticed and word will get out about my stuff. I have no idea how I'm going to post on time and all that, but I guess I'll find a way.

So here goes nothing! I'm starting a crazy journey and I really don't know what I'm doing, but hopefully there are some crazy crafty designy people out there who will enjoy the ride with me :)

Just a little taste of what I'm doing:

This one has green/white polka dots on the other side

This one has pink gingham on the other side

One of my favorites. It's so simple but so pretty!