Lovely NW

just a video...

2011-12-14T17:58:00.001-08:00

I wanted to share. Enjoy!

Murmuration from Sophie Windsor Clive on Vimeo.

long time no post.

2011-11-22T08:27:00.000-08:00

I am back from my long term blogging break. What have I been up to? A craft fair! Lots of knitting, lots of working and a weekend visit from my bestie (amongst lots of other things!) I will be back shortly with a "real" post!

xo, lovely NW

pinterest.

2011-10-17T18:46:00.000-07:00

I've been pinning lots to my Pinterest boards lately. I love using this site as a second brain. I go over old pins periodically and it really helps to refresh ideas I once loved.

Head over to my Pinterest boards by clicking HERE!

giveaway!

2011-10-10T18:05:00.000-07:00

Lonely Quail is sponsoring a giveaway over on the Traveling Triplets blog to help promote the Wintry Market next month in Boise! Click HERE to check it out and enter to win!

crafting pictures.

2011-10-03T11:25:00.000-07:00

A week or so again I mentioned posting some pictures of what I've been working on for the Wintry Market show in November. Well here is a sneak peek - but you will have to visit the Lonely Quail blog to see more! Click on the Lonely Quail blog button on the side or click HERE to view upcoming products we will have up for sale!

PS - I will be making more batches of soap this week! Continue to follow me, and the Lonely Quail blog, to hear how you can get your hands on some of our lovely handmade soaps!

2011-09-28T13:51:00.000-07:00

This morning when going to make an emergency cat food run, I noticed this creation from nature. It instantly reminded me that Autumn is slowly showing it's face here in Washington. Fog in the morning that leaves its mark on everything - including Miss Spider's web.

pictures.

2011-09-24T16:55:00.000-07:00

Here are just a few pictures I'd like to share. These aren't of the craft pictures I've promised (not quite done with the projects yet...) but I wanted to share them anyway. Honey and I walked a nature preserve today that is located just about 10 miles from us in the Columbia Gorge. Nice way to start our day!

Unfortunately, there was not much wildlife out that I wanted to see (a blue herron and some eagles) but we did spot some cool insects and chattering birds. Even though I didn't see an eagle, I did spot a nest! (sorry for the terrible picture of it.)

craftin'.

2011-09-22T11:18:00.000-07:00

I've made progress on some really cute crafts for the Wintry Market that Lonely Quail is participating in! I will share pictures this weekend when I have time to do a real post!

in our own backyard

2011-09-11T13:19:00.000-07:00

Here are a few images from our recent trip around Washington. I am amazed that all of these amazing things are in my own backyard.

Japanese Garden, PDX

Crescent Lake, WA

My tootsies

We traveled to: Long Beach, Wa - Port Orchards, Wa - Sequim and Port Angeles, Wa - Lake Crescent, Wa - Anacortes, Wa - then caught the ferry to Orcas Island in the San Juan's where we kayaked (AWESOME!) and Orca watched (AWESOME!) All and all, an amazing trip I can't wait to take again and again.

new button.

2011-08-26T10:56:00.000-07:00

Made a new blog button today. A little larger in size mostly. I will have hubby write the code tonight that I want and then it will be available for you to use!

travels.

2011-08-26T10:41:00.000-07:00

Just a sneek peak of where I've been the past few days. I will post a full update this weekend! Happy Friday everyone.

Elephantine.

2011-08-18T09:33:00.000-07:00

Elephantine is one of my favorite blogs to read and creates some of my favorite jewelry right now. See some of her beautiful work below.

ALL images from Elephantine

Click HERE to checkout the Elephantine blog and HERE for her Etsy shop!

DIY.

2011-08-18T09:21:00.000-07:00

Here is another beautiful DIY from the Design Sponge website and Holly Rose.

SOURCE

While surfing Design Sponge today, I came across this beautiful vintage lamp DIY. The simplicity is really charming and the materials are easy to come by.

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Go HERE to get a full list of materials and instructions to make your very own vintage inspired lamp!

DIY.

2011-08-12T11:29:00.000-07:00

I told you all a while back that I wanted to start to post some DIY ideas from around the web. Back when I was taking good care of this blog, I was just starting out with this feature...but then it all went to the back burner. Now it's back and I think today's DIY is the perfect one to start with. It comes from Design Sponge and the bbb craft sisters!

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A recycled road map cork board! The minute I saw this DIY I said to myself "you have to make this!" I will of course attempt to make a Washington and a Texas.

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This DIY would be a fabulous idea for gifts, your craft room or really...any room! Click HERE to head to Design Sponge and see the DIY instructions and materials!

Have a great DIY of your own? Send it over and maybe I'll post it!

adventures in soap-making

2011-08-09T13:03:00.000-07:00

A couple of months ago Sandra approached me about trying to make soap. You see, a couple of years ago I made some simple soap for little favors at my wedding. It was fun to create and since then I have played with making more here and there. Now that Sandra and I are stepping in to a real crafting business venture together, I decided I should learn how to make the real thing. Soap from scratch. No melt and pour from the craft store. The minute I mentioned this to Chris, he was on board, too. For a month now, we've been playing with a re-batch soap base. What re-batch means is we've taken a "from scratch" soap base produced by someone else, grated it down to melt and put in our own additives. This was a great way get started and play with "flavors" so to speak. Last week, we took another step in making soap from scatch - really from scratch- and that means playing with lye! "EEP" I thought. But look how it turned out!

It's so beautiful in person. It's this wonderful cream color with a beautiful odor. It has to cure for about four weeks before it's ready to use but I am seriously so excited to see where this can go. In the coming months, look for our simple handmade soaps to be for sale in the Lonely Quail shop!

bloglovin'

2011-08-06T09:52:00.001-07:00

Follow my blog with Bloglovin

Going to try this Bloglovin'thing! Follow me?

pardon my French

2011-08-04T16:07:00.000-07:00

Even though we've barely had a Summer here in the Pacific NW, my eyes are already fixated on Fall/Winter (at least for fashion, anyway.) I am concerned at my current obsession with stripes. I've always liked stripes, just ask my college room mate (Hey K!) I am drawn to black and white stripes with accent colors of red, brown, peach and gold.

Below you will see a screen shot of my Pinterest board called pardon my French. I've pinned numerous photos of clothes and more to keep my French inspiration alive.

Now, I make no claim to know much about French fashion history (I know it's much more glamorous than my visions) but stripes, cigarette pants and black say Francais to me. My vision this Fall/Winter is to wear black, sometimes all black (I love you Kelly Cutrone.) and stripes. I will document this all to you IF it happens!

PS. Have you checked out Pinterest? If not - DO! And here is another link to my Pinterest board of French inspirations.

under construction

2011-08-03T16:08:00.000-07:00

Ok all - so after playing with my blog yesterday and telling you "I've uploaded another header..."etc, I had a change of mind and today started in a completely different direction as far as how Lovely NW will look. As of right now, it's under construction - so check back tomorrow for new the new look and new blog buttons!

2011-08-02T19:12:00.000-07:00

I finally have found some time to blog a bit. I am about to head over to Whole Foods for some soap making inspiration, but I wanted to show you some old images I found that I designed before my old Mac died.

I hope to post more often sharing with you DIY ideas from around the web and also using this cute little image with the bird as my signature. Also, did you see I changed up my blog header a bit? AND I added html code to my blog button so it's easier to share with you!

More to come on Lonely Quail - so stay tuned.

Little Photo

2011-08-02T18:05:00.000-07:00

Finally some pictures! I took these and manipulated these all with a little Android App called Little Photo. I LOVE this app!


This one I took two photos of myself and exposed them together!

Similar photo, just me and different colors/style

Chris

Me.

I will be back soon with some exciting news about a new adventure with Sandra called Lonely Quail!

2011-07-31T10:57:00.000-07:00

Hey all! I've been having some posting problems with blogger this week but hope to get it resolved soon!

What have I been up to?
- WORK
- a beach weekend
- a bestie work meeting
- some picture taking

Be back soon!!

Boise

2011-06-07T18:58:00.000-07:00

Hey ya'll. So I said a few weeks ago that I would try and post some pictures up this summer of different trips and things...so I wanted to post a little sneak peek of our Boise trip (on the road and a storm was coming in!) More to come of course when I pull all the pictures together!

on the road

blogging

2011-05-13T09:58:00.000-07:00

Guys, I really really want to blog more. I am inspired daily by all the other blogs I read and feel sad at the fact I hardly ever get around to blogging myself. With the lack of my laptop (still!!) and working 40+ hours a week (I'm currently the Interim Store Manager!) I hardly have time to breathe let alone blog.

This is my solemn promise to you- This summer I will make a conscious effort to make a blogging schedule, blog those ideas and become part of the blog world yet again.

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Some possible posts to look forward to this Summer : my road trip out to Boise to visit Sandra and Colin in their new city! A few days in the San Juan Islands with the in-laws, Day-Tripper posts featuring the Pacific NW (and my parents!), knitting, inspiration and "here is what I did this week" restaurant and stuff posts.

See you all soon!
Lovely NW

pictures as promised.

2011-04-27T12:04:00.000-07:00

Here is that sneak peek picture I promised last week of the knitting project.

And another picture just because. My new Dansko's I've been saving for!

Knitting

2011-04-20T08:41:00.000-07:00

April is the month of doom and gloom in Washington...so naturally my brain thinks it's winter and that it's time to start knitting again. Will post some pics of my newest creation, soon!

xo, Lovely NW

the newest in cat toys.

2011-04-13T13:37:00.000-07:00

opossum

my day in pictures

2011-04-08T19:54:00.000-07:00

morning savior.

finally a break

relaxation.

Meringue Cookies!

2011-04-04T15:00:00.000-07:00

Tried my hand at these easy and cute meringue cookies - a super sweet treat for a gloomy PacNW day. Want the how-to? Comment me!


fresh out of the oven

mmmm...

Amarillo by mornin'

2011-03-24T20:23:00.000-07:00

Some of you might know that we went to visit my family in Texas a couple weeks ago. For those of you who have never been to Texas (West Texas, pictured) here is a taste...

An Amarillo field

I basically grew up in Amarillo since my dad was born here, most of my family lives there, and I spent many summers there! I'm not sure Chris had ever visited a place so...flat and Texan.

I've missed it. I finally felt like I was really going "home."

a current obsession...

2011-02-28T13:58:00.000-08:00

Adele.

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I recently aquired her newest album, 21, and it is nothing less than amazing. Here is a link to the first single " Rolling In The Deep." My favorite tracks are : 3, 4, 5, and 11.

Winterfest NW

2011-02-24T09:17:00.000-08:00

We have a little winter storm blowing through! Lots of blogs I read are talking about feelings of Spring...we are still stuck in full-on Winter here in Washington! Spring = May. Here are some pics of the snow we've had....so far.

outside our building

pretty snow capped trees

my poor car!

For you on Valentines Day

2011-02-14T12:29:00.000-08:00

my update in pictures...

2011-01-31T11:40:00.000-08:00

I'm ashamed of myself. I have neglected my baby blog for too long. Work, visitors and lack of computer have hindered all things blogging. Here are just a few pictures of some things from recent months!


Nelson relaxing at Christmas time


Sandra at Hattie's in Seattle

Miniature apples at the super market!

dreams are alive in Portland

2011-01-09T12:43:00.000-08:00

Since the moment I saw the trailer for this new show on IFC, I knew I had to watch it! Then, Seablanket posted this video today and I knew I had to share it with you! A true and comedic poke at Portland!

black swan.

2010-12-21T10:05:00.000-08:00

Omg. It was amazing! Have you seen Black Swan?

2010-12-14T09:52:00.000-08:00

Happy Christmas!! Less than two weeks for shopping (and my crazy hours at work!!)

December Blog of the Month!

2010-12-01T09:00:00.000-08:00

Even though I'm lax in my posting as of late, I still have time to squeeze in my Blog of the Month post! And you're December Blog of the Month is......(drum rolling....)

Urban Weeds!!

Urban Weeds is a Portland based style blog that features "in the moment" pictures of real Portland people (mostly focusing on their style.) One day I was browsing the blog after a month or so of not looking and I saw my friend Helen! She's in my knitting group!

I enjoy looking at this site - some people's outfits inspire me and others make me laugh. People REALLY take themselves too seriously sometimes... Anyway, enjoy looking at Urban Weeds! I know I do.

Ps - I will post a blog button when I can - my computer hates me right now and isn't letting me. Darn you Ubuntu!

I swear...

2010-11-30T19:24:00.000-08:00

I will eventually update! I've been working, knitting, visiting with my folks and avoiding getting sick of the weather! Hope you all had a nice Thanksgiving! I am gearing up for Christmas! PS - I hope to have a new computer soon - then regular updates will abound!

xo, Lovely NW

it's about time....

2010-11-11T08:48:00.000-08:00

With,like,three in Seattle and one in Tucson, I was beginning to wonder when Portland would get one of these!? Eeep!

Portland is finally getting....an H&M! I seriously can not wait to go shop! Maybe even buy some Christmas gifts! The store is located in Pioneer Square and will make for many fabulous shopping days!

oh Seattle...

2010-11-08T09:05:00.000-08:00

how I love you!

Of course this image is from one of my fave blogs (I've told you about!) Seattle Daily Photo! I also love this photo - a true Pac NW Halloween! I know I boast about Seattle a ton - now I want to know what city you love?

I've got the Autumn chills...

2010-11-04T08:39:00.000-07:00

Fall has been in full swing for about a month here in the Pac NW. Trees are orange, yellow and shades of red, the air is crisp and breezy and I can hear old man winter just around the corner saying "hahah...coooooold weather and gloom is in store!" (I'm ignoring him for now - and he won't get me down anyway!! Chrismas makes up for the gloom and I can handle cold...) Anyway, I wanted to share a little snapshot of the tiny tree I took a picture of yesterday. Are the trees beautiful where you are?

Today is my day off! So I am off to enjoy my coffee, finish that baby blanket I'm knitting for my mom (she's giving it as a gift NOT having a baby...haha) and possibly a movie date with myself?

2010-11-02T19:44:00.001-07:00

Haha - I love you guys! Can't wait to see you in December!

I'm in serious need...

2010-10-27T09:55:00.000-07:00

of some Heart.

image rights to Heart

Portland is known for coffee and I am in serious need of some serious java. Hope to take Sandra and Colin to Heart when they come visit! What is your favorite coffee place?

Blog of the Month!

2010-10-26T17:11:00.000-07:00

I am doing my blog of the month choice for November a few days early! Why? Because Novembers blog of the month has FREEBIES! The November blog of the month is....

The Pugly Pixel!

Katrina, over at the Pugly Pixel, offers wonderful clip art, graphics and tutorials for your blog or scrapbook! Some of them are even FREE!

Check out this adorable freebie image she put up today!

The Pugly Pixel has been a go-to for me when designing my blog header and tags. Check out the Pugly Pixel today! And don't forget - the Pugly Pixel blog button will be up all month on the right side of the blog - so you can go back again to check for new updates!

Happy Halloween!

2010-10-24T20:47:00.000-07:00

Well....almost!

So you've noticed I've taken about a month off of blogging! We'll, I hope this post marks my return! I've been working, going to weddings and having company visit! Once life settles down,I will sit down and write some meaningful posts! Until then...what have you been up to?

Fave blog

2010-09-28T16:49:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone! Today is one of my last days off work before heading to Tucson for a break and a wedding! I wanted to share just a little something with you all - one of my favorite blogs - Seattle Daily Photo.

I have been reading this site daily for about two years now. Every day there is a new Seattle picture posted! I just love seeing my favorite city from someone elses perspective. It's easy to see why I believe Seattle to be SO wonderful!

Check out Seattle Daily Photo!!

xo,
lovely nw

Yum yum!

2010-09-25T10:01:00.000-07:00

I made these cookies and while back and realized I never shared a photo!

These were some of the best peanut butter cookies I've ever tasted! So easy to make and sure to please everyone. They are pretty rich, so if you don't have much of a sweet tooth, try making them without the filling.

Enjoy this tastey treat this weekend - it's so easy!

Miss you blog world!

2010-09-16T12:36:00.000-07:00

This is my first day off in over 8 days! I plan to do a lot of nothing but will try and post something meaningful later!

On a happy note, it's less than one month until I travel to Tucson for Sandra's wedding!! Hope to buy our tickets tonight ;)

xo,
lovey nw

PS- as soon as I have my computer situation figured out I will change that "Summer" blog header!

Blog of the Month!

2010-09-01T19:28:00.000-07:00

Hi ya'll - here is your September Blog of the Month - Kyla Roma!


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I stumbled upon Kyla Roma a few months back and immediately loved the design and overall feel of the blog. Each week, Kyla features posts about crafting, cooking, music and daily life! She also always posts beautiful pictures to enjoy! Click here to check out the blog or click the Kyla Roma blog button on the right side of this blog!!

Busy week at work!

2010-08-30T19:10:00.000-07:00

I got that promotion! So I've been quite busy at work this week and unable to post or hang out with my kitty girl (see below). Don't fret - I'll have some posts up soon about Fall, clothes and my faves this week.

I want...I NEED

2010-08-25T11:13:00.000-07:00

I'm so inspired by this DIY post over at Honestly...WTF?? I seriously have to try my hand at making some of these for fall! Click HERE for full material list and instructions!

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the Sketchbook Project

2010-08-24T17:55:00.000-07:00

I am not much of an artist...well, at least in the sense of drawing, painting, etc. I've seen blog buttons lately about the Sketchbook Project and today decided to check it out! This project is something I would love to be a part of. How good would my "sketches" be? Probably terrible - haha - but I would still feel a sense of accomplishment and artistic contribution! The problem is (and this is a smallish problem) is that it costs $25. That is a small price to pay to be part of such an awesome happening...but I really can't afford to spend $25. Here is my deal to myself, if I get this promotion at work (it's looking like a yes!), I will spend the $25 and participate in the Sketchbook Project. Is anyone with me??

Here are the official rules and project features. I almost forgot to mention the best part! There are many themes to choose from for your sketchbook! I am going to choose between: Down your street and Make Mine a Double! Naturally I plan to have a Pacific NW theme to these themes.

So...is anyone with me?? What theme would you pick?

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ink inspiration

2010-08-20T18:34:00.000-07:00

my head is about to explode with new tattoo ideas. it's been a couple years since my last and I'm ready for some serious ink!


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I have been thinking about a Matryoshka doll for a long time. Here is what I'm thinking...a red-head, maybe keeping the cat idea (my kitty would be grey naturally) and having a banner underneath saying "Lolly" or "Lamby"- what my parents called me when I was a kid. I'm thinking of getting this on my left shin.

Most of you know that I love gnomes. I found this awesome tattoo earlier. It depicts the type of gnome I'd want - not too cartoony and legit looking. I have no intention of getting a gnome this large, but I would like to do sort of a David the Gnome tattoo. David the gnome hung out with a fox most days...so I would love to have a decent sized, pretty real but whimsical looking fox tattoo with a little gnome guy added in. These guys would go on my arm somewhere.

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In addition to these, Sandra and I plan on getting some Quail tattoo's together. I also want the quail to look real but whimsical - not like my arm stepped out of a rednecks camo jacket. The quail, will of course represent Tucson and Sandra. This guy will go on my arm somewhere - maybe back of my forearm?

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Third is a floral. For years I've wanted a spider mum in teal. Now I'm thinking oranges. This will go on the inside of my left wrist and I'd like this flower to be pretty big so it will stand out nicely and not look like a tiny orange blob on my wrist! another big flower contender is a Peony!! They are so feminine it's hard to not change my mind!

And last but not really lasts, I would like a simple outline of Texas on the outside of my wrist. I think this would be a neat place and a simple/ subtle way to pay homage to my home.

Ok, so what about you? Any new tattoos or ideas lately??

new obsession

2010-08-18T18:40:00.000-07:00

Butter London nail polish! Omg I am in loooooove! After leaving work today I stopped off at Ulta to get this:

But on my way to the OPI counter I found this:

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Butter London has the most amazing colors I've seen yet. And who doesn't love the name Butter? I was so tempted to get a few colors but opted for my OPI color I'd specifically been shopping for. Butter nail polishes run about $14 and their other goodies ( like base coat and cuticle eliminator) run around $20. I can't wait to stock up on some new colors for fall.

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inspiring links

2010-08-17T12:06:00.000-07:00

Just a few inspiring ideas I've come across lately. Enjoy!

- awesome kitchen shelving over at Apartment Therapy

- DIY approach to Marimekko wallpaper

- these yummy nutella cookies!

- all of the amazing rugs at Urban right now...especially this one!

long time no bloging!

2010-08-15T15:02:00.000-07:00

Hey all! The past few weeks have kept me very busy and unable to blog. First off, I've been working a lot and interviewed for a promotion! Woo-hoo! This is a really great and exciting possibility for my career. Also, my mom came in to town for a week - so we naturally drove all over Washington visiting family, shopping and eating. AND another fun note, C and I had lunch with Heather and Grayson of Jagger Photography! They shot our wedding almost a year ago and we've stayed in contact. They are the BEST! We're currently trying to save and plan a few days we can drive up to Bellingham and visit with them!

Below is a picture C took during our last camping trip a few weeks ago!

Finally another...

2010-08-05T10:24:00.000-07:00

Music for you Wednesday...just a day late!

I've been busy working lately and didn't have time to put together a playlist! Well here it is - some good/some annoying "dance" songs I've had in my head all summer. Some of them I heard in San Diego, some on the radio and some through friends. Enjoy!!

Music Playlist at MixPod.com

Blog of the Month!

2010-08-01T10:29:00.000-07:00

Hey blog friends - I've been missing you! Life without my Macbook has been hard! and not having the money to do anything about it yet is even worse! I hope, sooner than later, I can start with my regular posts again and not feel so out of the loop!

On a better note, I have a new blog of the month for August! My pick is.....vol.25!

Vol.25 is a great blog filled with inspiring pictures, design freebies and other purchaseable design elements and art! The first time I stumbled upon this site I fell in love with the photo shoots and just her overall design ideas. It also inspires me that all of this is done by a mother of two! She must have amazing time management skills!

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The blog author, Jessica, also offers her designs in her Zazzle shop (see above!) I love this option for birthday gifts and wearable art!

Be sure to check out vol.25 today! Don't forget - her blog button will be up all month long so you can go back and check it out again!

etsy finds

2010-07-28T11:32:00.000-07:00

Just some cute Etsy finds! Enjoy!

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souce

Summer in the PacNW

2010-07-22T10:32:00.000-07:00

Summer shows it's most beautiful moments here in the Pacific NW. Look, see for yourself!

source, source

Now I know these are stock photos but I hope to post some of my own very soon. With my computer down it may take some time - but bear with me! This weekend we are camping at Nahalem Falls down on the Oregon coast and also have a few day trips to Seattle, etc, planned.

What are your summer plans? and send me pics!

no news is good news?

2010-07-20T15:39:00.000-07:00

So, no news yet on my Macbook...it's my fault really. I've yet to have time to drive it to the Mac store and see what's wrong with it! Hope to do that next week...but here is what I'm thinking. Get rid of her, get software to update the eMac AND get an iPad?? Depending on what is wrong with the laptop, the iPad and software upgrade might be more cost effective....and for sure more fun!

Hope you all are having a great week! I promise more posts soon once I have steady computer time.

Off to finish my summer-rainbow cupcakes!

sad, sad day...

2010-07-15T16:32:00.000-07:00

My beloved Mac laptop died last night. RIP. Blog posts will be few and far between until she comes back from the shop (fingers crossed it's just the hard drive...) I am going to try and get my eMac set up sometime this week to possibly upload some old photos and do some "Remember When" type posts...but we'll see. Say a little prayer for the laptop!! And all my info on her hard drive....

inspiration.

2010-07-14T13:02:00.000-07:00

I just love this room I spotted over at Smile and Wave! I can see myself having a room like this some day in my home! Love love love!

for your viewing pleasure.

2010-07-13T22:33:00.000-07:00

I know at least a few of you will appreciate this one.

source unknown

Do-si-Do's - My Way

2010-07-13T20:17:00.000-07:00

Here is a little cookie recipe I decided to try from Annie's Eats that I wanted to share with ya'll! Even though it's hot and Summery outside, I still like to turn on the oven and bake a bit. Who doesn't want dessert all year long? These cookies are light and a great summer treat! Here is how mine turned out...

These turned out so tasty! I ran out of butter when I went to prepare the filling - so I used some margarine instead. It still turned out really yummy but I think with the correct butter used from the recipe the filling will be a bit fluffier!

new knitting venture

2010-07-11T19:47:00.000-07:00

I've decided to try my hand at knitting this satchel. So far so good! The color I've picked is Barley - to sort of give it a more textured look. I'm thinking maybe Snapdragon or Linen for the next bag!

image © Lion Brand

free PDF pattern download HERE

image © Lion Brand

Barley

DIY Birdhouse!

2010-07-09T23:49:00.000-07:00

Here is a fun video I found on Threadbanger today - DYI Birdhouse! All the birds are out in their full glory up here - so this would be a great addition to our porch!

love in a bag

2010-07-08T20:15:00.000-07:00

Just a goofy little concept I came up with today - love in a bag. I decided to of course feature my bestie Sandra and her guy Colin (with an ordinary, naturally!) Want me to design you a "love in a bag"? Comment me!

playing with design

2010-07-07T16:29:00.000-07:00

UPDATE: I've added more creations after the jump!! Plus a new banner just for Summer!

Since I had this afternoon off work, I decided to play around with some fun designs for the blog. I found some amazing free digital scrapbooking stuff that has really come in handy and makes design more fun! Check out : Free Digital Scrapbooking.com and the Pugly Pixel (who's button is also on my sidebar) for cute and easy to use digital freebies! Here is a little taste of something I've created so far!

You should be seeing me use these for upcoming posts this summer! What are you creating these days? and Kayla...papers for school isn't an answer I want to hear!

2010-07-07T15:14:00.000-07:00

I was just surfin' around the web today and fell upon artist Will Bryant's website. I love love love this design and many more of his others. Check him out - Will Bryant of Austin, Tx.

dream kitchen

2010-07-04T19:59:00.000-07:00

I just saw this picture online and loved it instantly. I know it doesn't show a complete kitchen (table, appliances, etc.) but you get the idea. This is exactly what I'd love for a kitchen one day!

and Happy 4th!

I want. I NEED!

2010-07-03T19:10:00.000-07:00

Just some clothing items and accessories I am loving these days! As much as I'm enjoying summer clothes, I can't wait to get some black jeans/pants for fall/winter. I'm sort of Kelly Cutrone inspired this year!

july blog of the month!

2010-07-01T09:30:00.000-07:00

The Long Thread is my pick for July's blog of the month! The Long Thread is a site dedicated to sewing, handmade crafts and tutorials. For you mommies, there are even kids craft tutorials!

Here are some images and links to my favorite tutorials and ideas on The Long Thread! And don't forget, the blog button is located on the right hand side so you can access the site anytime! And while you're at it, pick up my button, too!

(all images and ideas below copyright The Long Thread)

Seashell Printing!

Little House Pouch!

Little Red!

Check out The Long Thread for more craft ideas like these!

Summertime Images

2010-06-27T12:04:00.000-07:00

I thought I would put together a little collection of summer images I got from the NYC Digital Gallery! This is such a great resource for you crafty, creative types! I am thinking of taking a few of these images to photoshop and making some fun prints for my house!

Cali mix-tape

2010-06-25T19:16:00.000-07:00

Here is just a super short playlist of songs that we heard on our trip to San Diego and are forever ingrained in my brain!

Music Playlist at MixPod.com

our trip in photos!

2010-06-25T13:55:00.000-07:00

Instead of doing a City Views post full of places, links, etc...I've decided just to post pictures of us having fun in San Diego! Of course, I didn't get a single picture of myself but that is ok!

our view of Mt. Rainer on the plane ride down!

Britt and Lizzy

Nerd relaxin'

Justin relaxin' at the beach

Jellyfish we saw at the aquarium in La Jolla

One of the best parts of the trip was the surprise visit from Sandra and Colin! They drove over from Tucson to hang for a couple days! We had a blast at the aquarium and man did we party! There will be more pics to come! We had a great time with friends and family and look forward to our San Diego trip again next Summer.

summer reading list

2010-06-24T11:16:00.000-07:00

Summer always seems like a nice time of year to catch up on some reading. Things just move slower in the summer and when you're lying by the pool or staying in because it's hot as hell outside, reading relaxes and takes you to another place. Here are a few books I plan to read this summer. What about you - any book reading?

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I've read these next two books but really want to read them again!

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aMazing Etsy treasury

2010-06-22T10:12:00.000-07:00

This has to be one of my most favorite Treasuries on Etsy and I just had to share it. The image below is just one of the fabulous items on the treasury. I hope to get a fox tattoo one day and so many of these images would make an amazing piece of art on my body. What sort of treasury would you put together? What inspires you?

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DIY Iced Mocha

2010-06-21T18:32:00.000-07:00

I am probably not giving you all enough credit for being creative, but I wanted to post my recipe for my Iced Mocha. You might read this and go "duh." but just humor me - read on!

I enjoy coffee like no other, so the other day I finally decided to try and make a light flavored iced mocha that I could drink all summer to keep me cool. Here is what you need!

original source

Ingredients:
Ice
Chocolate Syrup
1 or 2 shots espresso (make it as strong as you like)
2% milk (or Soy - I think it's gross with Skim)
Instrument for stirring

Directions:
-Prepare in a glass: ice, half a glass of milk and chocolate syrup. Make sure you have a glass that can withstand hot liquid hitting cold - you don't want to pick up shattered glass.
-Stir milk, ice and chocolate until it looks well mixed.
-Add in espresso, mix.
-Add more milk/chocolate based upon your tastes.

note - I like to drizzle a little chocolate syrup on top afterward. Whip cream would be great, too!

Enjoy!

like a kid again...

2010-06-19T10:03:00.000-07:00

The clever folks over at Disney have designed a webpage called create your own toy! So that is exactly what I did!

Create your town toy now!

Links Post!

2010-06-18T15:37:00.000-07:00

Hope everyone has had a ~~good~~ great week! Here are some links to some favorite finds of mine from around the net. I have a couple of nice posts coming up (DIY iced mocha and summer reading list to name a couple) next week, so be sure to check in!

ohmy....

Beautiful summer purse on Etsy!

Handcrafted purple bowl -stunning!

A new favorite blog!

A DIY I've had to do ~~a few~~ many times!

This studio and this house highlighted over at Apartment Therapy (June's blog of the month!)

Travel Tips!

2010-06-17T09:00:00.000-07:00

While preparing for my upcoming trip to California, I got to thinking about my travel habits. Naturally, that evolved into an idea for a post - Travel Tips! Here are a few of my tips for safe, stress-free travel.

1) To keep your personal things (money, passport, etc.) safe, do not pack them all in one place. Keep some of your cash on you during the day and another stash of cash in your suitcase at the hotel. That way, if you lose your purse or your suitcase ends up in Timbuktu, you at least have SOME of your money accessible. There is nothing worse than getting pick-pocketed in Rome and not having any back up cash at the hotel. Also, make a copy of your passport and keep that in a safe place (a copy at home, too!) in your suitcase. Always keep your hardcopy passport on you, securely. I know this sounds geeky - but invest in a travel purse/bag that is thief-proof. A bag that someone can not slice open or steal off of your chair (they have straps with clasps!) will keep your personal belongings safe. Trust me, the last thing you want is to deal with a stolen passport. During domestic travel you can leave your passport at home but still consider stashing your money in a few different places just in case the unthinkable happens!

2) Take tons of pictures! Not all of them will turn out but if you don't take enough you might not come out with any great pictures showcasing your trip! Always buy batteries/film before you leave home. Vacation hot spots (especially Europe) sell these items with extreme mark-ups! Don't get ripped off!

3) Call your traveling buddies and each of you compare a list of things you are bringing. There is no need to both bring a hair dryer - takes up space! Share items that you can - that way you have more room for souvieniers!

Ok, so maybe I don't have a billion travel tips, but I just wanted to share a few that have really helped me prepare and enjoy traveling!

to our Father's

2010-06-16T09:00:00.000-07:00

Father's day is coming up - this Sunday, June 20th to be exact - and I wanted to post a few ideas I had for gifts for Dad! I'm sending my dad a fun T-shirt with Big Foot on it that says " Big Foot stepped on me at Mount St. Helens." He'll get a kick out of it! All items below are hand crafted gifts available on Etsy!

For the hip yet traditional dad, how about some custom cufflinks?

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For the techie dad, a clock made of a computer hard drive!

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And for the dad that loves to grill, a custom set of rubs and spices!

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I hope these images will help give you ideas for your Father's Day shopping!

Knitting for Summer!

2010-06-14T13:57:00.000-07:00

When you think of a blanket, garment or scarf that has been knitted, what first comes to mind? Maybe cold weather? Or wool? Well that is what most of us associate with knitting - wooly mittens and scarves or large throws that keep us warm in winter. But did you know there are fun knitting ideas for Summer?! Here are just a few I came across online this week.

source and free pattern

I hope these images and ideas from Lion Brand Yarn inspire you to knit this summer. I plan to try my hand at the Felted Sea Scarf (last image) so I can enjoy it during the chilly NW nights.

Coffee Crafts

2010-06-12T10:00:00.000-07:00

Coffee is one of my favorite things in life. Is that pathetic? Anyway...a couple of years ago my bestie Sandra got me a fun sewing/embroidery kit for making coffee cozies! I'd yet to try the pattern out but after finding some cute coffee inspired prints at my local Craft Warehouse, I knew I just had to try and make a couple. Here is how my first two turned out - not bad! I need some practice on using bias tape and after that these babies will make great gifts! Once I have a picture of myself actually using one, I will post that, too.

What have you made lately?

City Views coming up!

2010-06-11T08:00:00.000-07:00

Hey ya'll - In a little over a week I'll be headed to San Diego for some much needed fun and family time! I decided I should definitely make this one of my City Views posts!! It might be a bit of a skimpy post seeing as we won't go too many places while we're there - just the beach, shopping and food of course! But either way, the post will be full of pictures and notes on what I enjoyed! Keep checking my blog updates for City Views - San Diego! original image source

Donate Today!

2010-06-10T21:04:00.000-07:00

In midst of the increasingly devastating oil spill in the Gulf, I thought I would post a few links on how you can help the wildlife effected. Donate today!

National Wildlife Federation

Buy Dawn dishsoap!

Audubon Society

source

New look!

2010-06-10T18:01:00.000-07:00

Ok, so I know I'm constantly playing with blog looks and today I'm doing it again...Blogger has added a new "Design" tab and I wanted to play with it. So far, I've ended up with a writing paper sort of look. I think I need to design a new header image - what do you think? Are any of you going to redesign your blog with these new features?

Off to design a new header!

Music for YOU wednesday.

2010-06-10T11:46:00.000-07:00

Well Thursday....I was a bit behind and busy working yesterday! These are just a few songs I've had stuck in my head lately. Enjoy!

Music Playlist at MixPod.com

more creations!

2010-06-08T20:43:00.000-07:00

I got bored again and decided to sew myself a new sunglass case. Turned out cute I think!

Soap! part 2

2010-06-08T16:53:00.000-07:00

Well, I didn't end up making soap on Saturday night. Instead we watched more True Blood to get ready for Season 3 premiere (so excited!) So, after work yesterday I decided to go on a movie date with myself to see Letters to Juliet (cute! (ps - I like to use parentheses today)) and make soap afterward. What I always have used when making soap is a ready made soap base bought at any craft store (I usually get the shea butter or goats milk kind) and experiment with other ingredients like apricot seeds, essential oils and tea. Yesterday I made shea butter soap with apricot seeds and raspberry zinger tea. Here is how they turned out!

I was hoping the raspberry tea would make the soap pink/red but that didn't happen. Tea always makes soap grey no matter what. I will keep experimenting until I get it right. Dyes perhaps? Nevertheless, the soaps turned out great and with a nice hint of raspberry zinger and nice little apricot seed scrubbers. You can never exfoliate too much during the summer!

Soap!

2010-06-05T14:34:00.000-07:00

Today is a slow day around my place, so I decided to make some more soap! I made soaps for my wedding and it was so easy and fun! Today I think I'll try to make some with different types of tea. I'll post more later on and let you all know how they turned out!

Blog of the month!

2010-06-01T17:00:00.000-07:00

Hey all! Today is June first so I thought it would be appropriate to select and post about my new Blog of the Month!!

For June I've selected Apartment Therapy! I LOVE this site and check it daily. With multiple posts daily on their main page, I get inspired by home tours, art ideas and overall living tips. At the top of their page you will notice different city names. Click on the major city closest to you for ideas in your part of the country!

Here are a few images I found on Apartment Therapy that inspire me!

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While surfing around the net this month be sure to check out Apartment Therapy! Don't forget that I have their blog button on the side so you can find them easily!

2010-06-01T11:04:00.000-07:00

I have been a self-taught knitter for about 5 years and yesterday was the first day I tried a cable! I put it off for years out of fear. Yes, fear. I thought it looked beautiful but complicated and in no way easy to learn. But I was wrong! Check it out!

Now I plan to spend most of my knitting time for the next few weeks to perfecting the cable. Ideas are flowing!

99 Things

2010-05-31T15:25:00.000-07:00

I'm following suit with Letters from Coco and posting my 99 Things (experiences) List! What you do is highlight the items you have done and then enjoy reading others answers. Let me know if you decide to post your 99 list!

1. Started your own blog

2. Slept under the stars

3. Played in a band

4. Visited Hawaii

5. Watched a meteor shower

6. Given more than you can afford to charity

7. Been to Disney

8. Climbed a mountain (I am not counting hiking.)

9. Held a praying mantis

10. Sung a solo

11. Bungee jumped or cliff jumped

12. Visited Paris

13. Watched a thunder and lightning storm

14. Taught yourself an art from scratch

15. Adopted a child

16. Had food poisoning

17. Walked to the top of the Statue of Liberty

18. Grown your own vegetables

19. Seen the Mona Lisa in France

20. Slept on an overnight train

21. Had a pillow fight

22. Hitch hiked

23. Taken a sick day when you’re not ill

24. Built a snow fort

25. Held a lamb

26. Gone skinny dipping

27. Run a marathon

28. Ridden in a gondola in Venice

29. Seen a total eclipse

30. Watched a sunrise or sunset

31. Hit a home run

32. Been on a cruise

33. Seen Niagara Falls in person

34. Visited the birthplace of your ancestors

35. Seen an Amish community

36. Taught yourself a new language (partially! not fluent)

37. Had enough money to be truly satisfied

38. Seen the Leaning Tower of Pisa in person

39. Gone rock climbing

40. Seen Michelangelo’s David in person

41. Sung karaoke

42. Seen Old Faithful erupt

43. Bought a stranger a meal at a restaurant

44. Visited Africa

45. Walked on a beach by moonlight

46. Been transported in an ambulance

47. Had your portrait painted

48. Gone deep sea fishing

49. Seen the Sistine Chapel in person (I've been to Italy, can you tell?)

50. Been to the top of the Eiffel Tower in Paris

51. Gone scuba diving or snorkeling

52. Kissed in the rain

53. Played in the mud

54. Gone to a drive-in theater

55. Been in a movie

56. Visited the Great Wall of China

57. Started a business

58. Taken a martial arts class

59. Visited Russia

60. Served at a soup kitchen

61. Sold Girl Scout Cookies

62. Gone whale watching

63. Got flowers for no reason

64. Donated blood, platelets or plasma

65. Been sky diving

66. Visited a Concentration Camp

67. Bounced a check

68. Flown in a helicopter

69. Saved a favorite childhood toy

70. Visited the Lincoln Memorial

71. Eaten caviar

72. Pieced a quilt

73. Stood in Times Square

74. Toured the Everglades

75. Been fired from a job

76. Seen the Changing of the Guards in London

77. Broken a bone

78. Been a passenger on a motorcycle

79. Seen the Grand Canyon in person

80. Published a book

81. Visited the Vatican

82. Bought a brand new car

83. Walked in Jerusalem

84. Had your picture in the newspaper

85. Kissed a stranger at midnight on New Year’s Eve

86. Visited the White House

87. Killed and prepared an animal for eating

88. Had chickenpox

89. Saved someone’s life

90. Sat on a jury

91. Met someone famous

92. Joined a book club

93. Gotten a tattoo

94. Had a baby

95. Seen the Alamo in person

96. Swam in the Great Salt Lake

97. Been involved in a law suit

98. Owned a cell phone

99. Been stung by a bee

Canvas Pop

2010-05-27T11:13:00.000-07:00

I just love days when I stumble across a cool find on the internet. I swear most days I feel like I've reached the end of the internet and there is nothing else cool to see. Well today I came across Canvas Pop!

Canvas Pop is a cool service where you can upload a personal image and they place it on a giclee canvas for you to enjoy! Canvas art has become really popular over the past few years, so wouldn't it be better to have an image of your own on your all? Not some big box image everyone else might have?

Here are a few samples from their ideas gallery!

source for all images

I have so many ideas now!! My inspiration has come back! I am definitely drawn to the three panel option. What images and panels would you use?

Music for YOU wednesday.

2010-05-26T08:00:00.000-07:00

Hey all - here is my little playlist for this week. All of these songs remind me of nature. Enjoy!!

Music Playlist at MixPod.com

eye candy.

2010-05-23T19:13:00.000-07:00

you're welcome ;)

Etsy Finds!

2010-05-23T11:03:00.000-07:00

Just some fun Etsy items I wanted to share with you this rainy Sunday (at least in Washington.) All handcrafted items featured today are from Seattle artists!

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Gardening.

2010-05-20T12:39:00.000-07:00

One thing that really excites me every year is setting up my plants. I can't really call it gardening on my end since I've always lived in an apartment situation...so I'll just say setting up plants!

Today I came across the store profile on Apartment Therapy for Succulence! For a few years now I've seen the concept of wall-succulent planting and I love it. This is exactly what I want to do when I have a yard or even just a fenced in patio. The only problem is...anytime I've tried to maintain succulents I've killed them. I am great with herbs, ferns, flowers....but not these gems. I think know I over water them but am not quite sure if that is all I'm doing wrong. Anyone have tips or thoughts?

Enjoy these pics and the article on Succulence!

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