Blah

This was pretty much what I got when I tried to get Sophy out the door this morning. I can't really blame her. I kinda feel like that myself. 

Just in case you thought she was always picture ready. Not so much.

Five on Friday

Five on Friday meet up at a. liz. 

5. I just saw this burger on Dinner with Julie and feel like the guy on the Geico commercial with his mind blown! It's a burger with a babybel cheese wheel inside. How did I not think of that?! This looks super tasty. May have to make these this weekend.

4. My in-laws are in town this weekend so we're contemplating a movie while we've got a visiting babysitter. Jobs looks really good so does Lee Daniel's The Butler but I'm not sure I want to be that serious and grown up. There's always Kickass 2 or The World's End. We also have the new Alamo Drafthouse to consider!

3. And if we're going to a movie we need dinner. Dinner with no throwing of crackers or demands to be "put down". Nice. I keep a list of restaurants in the notes section of my phone for a quick reference. It helps with the "where do you want to eat" question. A funny kind of movie deserves a little tasty goodness like Jerry's Wood-Fired Dog. I've seen it's tasty goodness via instagram feeds but haven't tried it out. We've also lived here a long time and haven't tried out Hattie's in Bishop Arts. That might move to the top of the list.

2. With the family in town, there's also likely to be some shopping for the toddler. I usually pick up a few things (or a lot), even when her closet is already busting out. The new Peek collection is crazy cute. The Tea collection also adorable. And finally, you can never go wrong with mini-boden. You'll likely go broke, but not wrong.

1. The State Fair of Texas signs are up! School started! Football is starting! It's Fall, it's fall, it's fall! Well, it's 105 here this weekend but I can feel fall!

Five on Friday

Yay, it's Five on Friday time and that means it's, well, Friday! I kind of feel like this.

And here we go...

5. The latest episode of Interior Therapy had the husband giving me a little side eye. The couple were living in "her" decorated version of the house that leaned very much to Mark Ryden. And by lean I mean was totally covered in it and lots more of that style of artwork. She also had a lot significant number of unusual pieces that I had some skepticism about including stuffed rats and clown portraits. Yikes! Now, I admit I like an occasional doll head as much as the next person  and kind of adore Mark Ryden but she had gone a little overboard. Since we watched it, I've been rethinking the entire home decorating/knickknacking I've got going on. I will say that someone with a "toy collection" a la Star Wars hoarding better not look too hard at me. Side eye back to the husband there.

4. So ignoring #5 where I swear off all questionable art and excessive item displaying. I kind of really really want these. Our antiquing trip set off some kind of dormant pottery collecting gene. I'm on a definite 30's and 40's pottery kick and have almost started a collection for Sophy. I have not for a few reasons.

• These are things I like and don't want to hear it when she's 13 and hates everything.
  
• Also, I don't want her stuck with having to deal with my hoarding on her behalf when she finally moves out and has to deal with a U-haul full "her" stuff. I do have some self-awareness about this. She may have to have this though.
  
• And the husband gives me the look and just shakes his head. I do not want to see this same behavior in a pre-schooler.

3. I've been seeing these awesome Valentino pumps all over the intranets. Greatness. So we have to suspend our disbelief that a) I wouldn't immediately break an ankle. And, b) that I would spend nearly $1,000 dollars on shoes. After all of that, these are fantastic! Perfect with some boyfriend jeans and a cardigan for casual with an edge work outfit.  I also have to get beyond them being called "Rockstud". That's just... ugh.

2. Ok, since I've agreed not to hoard on behalf of my toddler daughter, I'm contemplating merchandising her things in some fun ways. I love these crates. This book wall is on the must list.

1. And I've decided I'm kind of screwed since I have a "vignettes" board that would induce nightmares in Jeff Lewis and my husband.

Happy Friday!

Let the Sunshine In

I saw this gorgeous balloon backed by the sunrise this am at baby school drop off. It was gorgeous. But when I saw how the pic came out I just shook my head. I may have sighed.

I'm trying to be brave and take risks. To make some dreams become reality and it's hard. Really, really hard. Most of the time I feel like this picture. It's great potential but just not there. I'm already thinking how it's disappointing. I know. I have issues. I'm not a naturally optimistic person. This is coming as a shock. I'm more of a "if we're in a plane crash let's hope we lose consciousness before the fiery death" kind of a girl. All of the adults in our house worry about worrying too much. This is no way to live life and it's no way to teach my daughter how to live.

Instead, I want to feel like this. A second shot with a change in the angle and some editing.

I want to embrace the possibilities without becoming paralyzed over fear of disappointment. I've avoided opportunities because I didn't want to risk it not working out. Being rejected. Instead, I'm trying to push through. Risk. If it doesn't work out. It's still ok. I'm still ok. I still have a lot to be grateful for and there may be even better possibilities I didn't see just beyond the trees.

Breathe Deep. Set your intention. Be brave. Exhale.

Five on Friday

It's Five on Friday time again link up at a.liz ... I kind of skipped the last couple week for reasons unknown.

5. We're doing a quick summer mini-session with Ryan on Sunday so I'm obsessing over outfits. Still have no idea what's "cute" but can get "wet". Those are sort of mutual exclusive for me. Oy. My true obsession about this is mpix. I'm seriously addicted to their print services. They make all my pics look great and I order nearly everything in the lustre finish for this fantastic metallicy finish. LOVE. I also use their app for pics on my phone and it's amazing.
Note: they did not in anyway ask me to pimp out there services, I just have to share my new photo printing addiction. If they want to give me benefits for pimping there goodies I wouldn't say no!

4. iPhone photography. I just got my DSLR fixed and took it on our mini-trip. I may have posted 1.2 million photos online. Not sure if you saw. Here or here. But, I don't normally carry the big fancy camera around but I always have my phone or iPad mini so I signed up for a class specific to the phone. It's SnapShops which is awesome. It has lots of great information and now I'm a little concerned I won't get through it all in the next week. EEK!

3. Afterlight. I have a bunch of phone photo apps that I rotate through but this is my latest favorite. I can size images to "square" then make all the edits and add layers with sizing perfect for Instagram. Love Instagram. I could add that as #2 but I'll just do a combine gushing here.

2. Loving these art posters from Loose Petals on Etsy. Since I work in the travel industry now, these seem like perfect additions to the office. I've already a purchased a Dallas print and am now undecided as to my next favorite. They're all fantastic!

1. Totally random baby panda! Sophy has started saying "bear" which sounds a lot more like "beer" than "bear". It's the best thing ever. We call her Sophy Bear or just "bear" so it's extra cute. I drove her to school every morning and we practice saying "Mommy", "Daddy", etc. When we get to Sophy she just giggles. Sigh. Heart melts. I hope to catch up on all of my bear snuggles this weekend!

Park Visit

It was really pretty this morning, still hot, but really pretty. We packed up before it became too scorching and biked to the park. Sophy got her bike carrier this spring but was not a fan. She looked terrified and was ready to get out after her initial ride.I decided another trip with a swing and jungle gym pay off might be enough for her to reconsider.

As you can see, still skeptical but super cute.

The park by our house is awesome. There's several miles of trails, swings and play equipment and Cricket! Sunday morning is the local Cricket Club (?) with everyone in white. Love it.  No idea if anyone's any good but I just like that they're out there running wild with cricket bats looking nifty in the white uniforms.

First couple passes down the slide required a little help from Daddy. After that, she was loving it on her own. That's pretty much how she rolls. She's got this.

Swings are still a favorite, she giggles and giggles with each push but you have to stand at the end and grab her hand/foot. I have no idea why.

Running on the play gym. She's a lot more grown up than I'm prepared for at this point. She's running everywhere!

Well, maybe she's still got a little growing. :) Her romper's still pretty big!

The biking was a big hit. She sat back drinking her water yelling "weeeeee" with Daddy. The ride was fantastic and really nice through the shady portions. Wasn't even that hot. Unfortunately our planning did not account for all the hills at the end on the way home. Oy. Next time, reverse route to the playground.

Shoes, shoes, shoes

Looking at my shoe board on Pinterest you'd think I was Rachel Zoe wearing sky high heels everyday.

via

Not so much.

Yesterday's selection complete with super sexy mosquito bites. They're Uggs, if that helps. And super comfy. I've had them for a decent amount of time and still cushy. Today, gray Tom's. I know. Exciting. Still comfy!

It's going back to school time which gets me pondering all of the lovely fall boot options. And trips to Target for stocking the studio with fun supplies. Bouquets of sharpened pencils! (Now I want to watch You've Got Mail... squirrel!).  Anyhoo... if that weren't enough, all of the pushy Nordstrom sale promotions on the intranets. Honestly, they are everywhere!  But, we've really hit our summer stride in Texas, and it's unlikely that I'll be wearing boots soon. Regardless, I will not be deterred in my sweater layering, hot chocolate drinking fall fantasies. Those fantasies include some of the following: loving these floral cowboy boots. Similar but still takers. And my absolute all time favorites. I'm aware all of these require a decent amount of piggy bank saving. Stupid fiscal responsibility. And while I'm daydreaming and not going out of my way, I would pretty much take one of anything Frye.

Even Sophy had a little shoe hankering. Or, maybe I caved after all the adorable toddlers on the intranet kept showing off their crocs. Quick trip to Crocs outlet in Allen and super cute shoes and bag. She had a little trouble getting them off immediately after getting in the car but I think she's resolved that. Crazy. She hates wearing shoes in the car but is happy to wander the house in only a diaper and her shoes. Carrying her purse. Oy.

Random Weekend Goodness

Sophy's new favorite item.

She demanded her new hat when we were strolling through Target on Friday night. Girls night! Daddy took us to dinner then went home to mow while we hit Target visiting all the girly sections. Mostly those that interest a toddler. I'm not sure he didn't have more fun sans his ladies. We can be a handful. I know. It's a shock.

Going for a ride in the convertible. Might play some ball while she's at it.

Cutest baby ever. Please ignore the lack of back fence.We've complained to everyone we can think of and still no fence. At least they mowed earlier this week. I'm pretty sure small children and dogs had been lost in those weeds. Ugh.

Uhm, I was wrong. This might be the cutest baby.

Wait, maybe this one. Also, my herbs have gone crazy with the rain. Nope, above is my favorite. Look at those cheeks. And eyes. And smile. SO CUTE I could die.  To paraphrase Despicable Me. I can't wait until she's ready for cartoons. She's toe dipping with Peppa Pig.

 

Miss Robin took pity on us and watched Sophy on Saturday night while we ran wild. And by wild we pre-ordered movie tickets for Red 2 and went to dinner. It was Heaven! I'm actively working on figuring out how to be Helen Mirren when I grow up. Or at least get her clothes and accent. She's amazing. Love! Rolland found it good but liked the first one better. I loved it equally as well and can't wait to do a Red marathon.

We also crossed off one of the many restaurants on my list around Dallas. The British Beverage Company. It seemed like a good casual option for Rolland's birthday dinner as he requested nothing fancy. The food was super tasty, except the mac and cheese, not so yummy. Sophy rejected it as well and that baby loves any kind of pasta covered in cheese. The fish and chips, outstanding. As was the french onion soup. Soooo good. Rolland loved his Cottage Pie and Brussels sprouts cooked in Angry Orchard Cider. Yum. We got there about 7:30 and thought it might be getting crowded but pretty empty. Crowds have much later bedtime than we do. Would highly recommend a visit.

 

Fish and Chips

French Onion Soup

Sprinkles cupcakes for dessert, and babysitting pay off. I wanted to visit the cupcake ATM but the line was nuts. Turns out, the line inside was worse but once you've squeezed in you're committed. Tasty but totally not worth it. I just don't want to turn on my oven. Starting my chant for Fall, Fall, Fall...

Scott Simon

I've been following Scott Simon's twitter feed following his mother's illness and death. Heartbreaking and heart soaring. The best of what the internet can offer and I feel lucky he was willing to share it with us.

Randomness

I was reading an article on why travelling alone is a cure for loneliness. The article didn't really sway me as a few of the reasons would make me feel even more isolated versus connected but I could see a case being made for it. The real highlight for me was the quote in the piece. Indra Devi’s description of yoga. “Yoga, is a way to freedom. By its constant practice, we can free ourselves from fear, anguish and loneliness.”

I've mentioned a few times that I've started practicing yoga on the advice of my doctor and I'm loving it. Mostly. It's a bit of a struggle and outside of my comfort zone. Friday's class was just me and Abby and was super hard since she's trying to get me ready for class. She was really nice walking me through what I could expect and picked up the pace to be closer in line with a class environment. Result? I could barely walk on Saturday after pulling something in my back and having fallen on my ass during warrior II. Awesome. Plus, I had sweat dripping down my face making my vision all blurry and beads of sweat dripped all over the mat. Sexy. Clearly the beauty and elegance of the practice was alluding me.

But, I sucked it up and attended a group class yesterday with my confidence pretty much bottomed out. I wanted to back out. Badly. When I found out the class had moved rooms I wanted to just scoot on out. I tried but ! But I didn't. I timidly walked in and plopped down in an empty spot. Halfway through class when I was pretty sure I was going to vomit, I found a comfortable position and held on. Thanks Abby and Ann! I just to comfort that my instructor yogis repeatedly told me it was ok. This may be a good time to share that this was "Slow Burn" class. Room was hot and you hold the positions for a decent amount of time. I was fairly certain Dante left out a ring of hell. I made it through though. The teacher kept reiterating this was MY practice. Do what felt right to me. If that means going through with the class, hanging out in child pose and breathing, it's all ok and it's what's best for me. For the first time, I believed her. 

It's all what works for me and I can compare myself to the full on yogis next to me with gorgeous form and full pigeon - to be clear, I have no idea what that means but people were doing it. Beautifully.  I was busy wiping sweat off my face and gulping water. Or, I can do the best I can and be happy with that. I felt strong and was a pretty good role model to the kiddo with the whole finishing what I started thing. It makes me feel good

Now, I'm not sure about the anguish and loneliness business but I did learn a little about overcoming fear. And sweating. A lot.

Five on Friday

I saw this over on Elefantitas Alegres and decided to be a big ol' joiner and participate. The meet up is at A. Liz Adventures.

 

 

 

My Five 

 

1. Trader Joe's yogurt squishers  and a super cute toddler. These, yogurt not toddler, are super cheap and as we found out last night, perfect when frozen (smart husband) for a teething toddler on a hot summer night. Also, it blends in nicely when dripped on her chair. Side note: I could put this adorable little toddler as an item in all 5 since she is the bestest. Real word. Anyway, these yogurt squishers are normally just a big squishy thing of yogurt that can be a giant mess. When frozen, healthier popsicle. Ideally, half that size is best but now that I know that I'll just cut them in half (while frozen seems prudent) and put the other half back in the freezer. That's how you do it in these fiscally conservative times. 

 

 

Trader Joe's has a lot of family favorites that deserve their own post at some point.

 

2.  All things jewelry related. I've made a few new pieces this week (this one and this one and a couple with no photos yet) and have the creative juices flowing. I've got two pieces in progress and another 2 brewing on the back burner. I've been gathering a ton of inspiration and have noticed a turquoise trend going. Will have to add some more projects to brew list.

 

3. With all of this jewelry making, I've been obsessed with the West Wing again. I'm starting Season 4 and deep into re-election campaigning. Last episode of Season 3 was tough. I knew it was coming... sob. Anyway, sooo good. Major West Wing love and it's amazing how many issues going on now are still relevant. The questions and issues they're tacking via fiction, are pretty real and relevant now. Maybe this is why I have to watch while making something pretty. :0

 

4. Local food joints. We're trying to eat at home more and save the food budget, now that we've gotten around to having a food budget, for a few super tasty treats out vs regular helpings of meh. This weekend I have a couple on my list. First up is Babe's, that everyone has been talking about forever, but I have yet to try out. So after swimming lessons, we're hitting the chicken and Costco. I know. So glamorous. Then Sunday, as bribery to drive my ass to Ft Worth and look at beads he couldn't hate more with me while wrangling a toddler, I'm taking Rolland to Jonathan's Oak Cliff in hopes it's tasty enough to forget the imminent hell awaiting him. They have a build your own Bloody Mary Bar! What more could I offer? Also, it's a tie-in with the jewelry making and more bead hoarding. On a budget.

 

5. Yoga. So, I had this hip thing going on for a long time and finally mentioned it to my new doctor. Love Dr. Bonny! Turns out, the muscles are too tight and have gone all wonky. She suggested I hightail it to a yoga class if I wanted to avoid physical therapy. Sophy's school has a Wee Yogi's program - and that name is adorable - which I was checking out at the same time since I'm kind of self conscious about attending a group class. So now I'm doing a weekly private class with Abby. Who is awesome. I'm loving it. The goal is to work on some specific areas then hit the group classes. Although my usual Sat morning got rescheduled for tonight and I may just fall asleep in the meditation.

 

And finally... it's Friday! Woo hoo!

Mightee Kids

Nearly every morning I take a picture of Sophy for her Grandparents in Kansas and Facebook for the rest of the clan. The Grandparents are not Facebook fans. Some days she's a willing model and others, not so much. Today was kind of an in between but she's still super cute and we got a pretty good pose.

What  you can't really see that well is her adorable Mightee Kids t-shirt. Mightee Kids creates a new shirt every month for a different cause with a portion of the profits for that shirt going to that month's organization. You can purchase individual shirts or subscribe monthly and they'll automatically send a shirt. That's the option I've picked and this was her first one. So adorable! They're is fantastic and a great gift option for people too. I found out about them via Under the Sycamore when she was promoting the Love Without Boundaries folks. Also a big fan of that foundation.

I'm trying to be more conscious about giving and making it more of a priority. We don't do too much right now but places like Mightee Kids make it a lot easier. I should also say we were in no way contacted to promote anyone and I'm just mentioning everyone because I like them!

p.s. Sophy has recently discovered Peppa the Pig and her snorting like Peppa will have to be recorded. I apologize to her future teenage self now.

When you're informed your baby is kind of acting like a brat

Yesterday I picked her up, the new gig is a little more flexible so I pick her up on Tues/Thurs, and got an update from her teacher. She's been teething like a fiend (over 6 coming in at once!) and I gave them a head's up on her cranky factor when I dropped her off. At pick up, her teacher started with a teething update but then I got more info. Turns out, she wasn't that great. She threw a major tantrum waking up all of her class, and I'm fairly certain she refused to allow them to go back to sleep, she pushes the little kids, big kids and teachers when they try to direct her in a way she doesn't want to go and firmly says "no" to any and all requests. Uhm, yikes.

I felt like a complete failure. My baby is acting like a brat and I really had no idea. I see her when I come home where we make dinner, she demands to be held so I get to have more guilt that I can't hold her and chop up stuff with a very sharp knife at the same time so she has a mini-meltdown. Often she quickly contents herself with her pans or books so it didn't seem like it was all that unusual to me.  We eat dinner, snuggle with books and/or get a bath with a little playtime then bed occasionally she acts out and gets deposited in her crib where she cries briefly but then plays with her animals until her "time out" is up. Even on the weekends it's just a longer version of this schedule and then back to the lather rinse repeat schedule of our weekday life. Previous reports she was great and everyone loved her, now I'm worried she's become "that kid" overnight (or while I was at work and then at home not paying attention to less than charming behavior).

I know I'm overreacting, I know she's fantastic and everyone still loves her, I know she's incredibly independent and has no desire to do anything that isn't exactly what she wants to do which is fantastic for avoiding peer pressure but not so great for getting her diaper changed and I know she can throw herself down on the ground and have a major meltdown and that ALL kids do it. But right now, I also know that I feel like I'm failing her. My time away is leaving her to be raised by strangers where they are teaching her everything and they know all of her little quirks. Where I get updates on what she likes, what her accomplishments are, who her friends are, people know her name and I have no idea who they are. It's frustrating.

There are no good answers since the socialization is good for her. She's fantastic in new situations, we can usually take her anywhere without freak outs, we are good parents and everything really be ok. Today, just isn't a good day.

Odd and Random

I'm tired. Not just need more sleep and I'll be fine tired but burned out and I'm pretty sure it will never end tired. So... I'm going to talk about pretty things that make me happy.

My Land's End purchases were fantastic especially the chevron dress and the Joan dress. Rolland approved highly of both.

These shoes are greatness. I've discussed lots my inability to walk in heels without risking death but for these I might risk it. LOVE.

I've also got this great little book,The Little Paris Kitchen: 120 Simple But Classic French Recipes ,
on the way

I saw it last weekend at Anthro but couldn't justify the full price when Amazon is soo much cheaper allowing for more future book purchases along with super cute baby clothes.


Our house is also into 1st b-day planning which isn't much really. Ordered a few super cute party elements, also via Amazon (I pay for prime and I'm using it!), and found some cute plates/cups. I need to compare with party supply before ordering. I hate to ship if I don't have too.... ignore book purchase above since saving $12 bucks is "have to" in this era of fiscal frugality.

Also loving this print from Zutano. Frankly, I love most all of Zutano but wait for sales. Sophy could go to college or be a super cute baby with these prices.


Tomorrow equals Trader Joe's and Rudy's breakfast tacos. Giant yum! Ok, 9:45 on Friday night and I'm heading to bed. Maybe it will help take the tired edge of just a little.

Sunday Musing

It's been pretty low key in our house after a crazy work week. Since I switched jobs last June it's a nice 8-5 environment so I can't really complain especially compared to my previous gig. Even with the craziness I still miss my work crew and the ensuing zaniness. Mostly I still keep in touch and can't wait until Sophy's birthday for another group meet up. It's all a little bittersweet and catches up to me at weird times. Last week is one of them. I've mostly pushed through and have recovered enough to shop and add a few new items to the wardrobe even in our frugal times. Sale people, sale!

These are some new goodies on their way to my hot little hands as we speak. I wasn't sure about this one but Rolland co-signed and at $30 bucks it was hard to resist.

In channeling my inner Joan from Mad Men, if you had to click the link you need to get yourself caught up on Mad Men pronto, I couldn't resist this. I also think it will be perfect for a date night on our trip to Seattle next month.

I have resisted this and this but I'm keeping my eye on them in case of a significant coupon.

This shirt is on my spring must have list and am currently saving pennies. I'm even hunting down a version of the orange necklace at some point in the future. Fantastic styling for my super preppy wish list must have for my white jeans.

In our mini-shopping weekend we picked up a few Mini Boden items for Sophy Bear. Love their clothes but they're pretty pricey so stocking up while I can. When she hits two she's going to be rocking some super cute outfits. We did splurge on her birthday dress. Soooo cute. Can't wait. I also got a text that my sister, Debbie, who lives in Austin was in town with her son for a tennis tournament so we caught up for brunch today. Got some good pics. Also the first time I had met my nephew Jesse who is a cutie. He's a fantastic tennis player and was kicking some tennis tail at Allen High School. Go Jesse!

This week I need to get back to the regular gym attendance. Dreading those 4:30 am wake up calls though. Not much else planned and that's nice. Dinner at home and a little tv time... OH! Are you watching The Americans? I liked it a lot more than I thought I would. It's filling my Homeland void since having cut of movie channels. Also loving Continuum. Even Rolland likes it and he typically hates all Syfy programming. A few more new shows starting and adding to DVR. I'll report back once I remember what they are and if I'm enjoying them.

Happy Sunday and back to football now that the lights are back on... I mean really people, things that you should double check include cords, fuses and wattage Beyonce may need for lip synching. Yep, I said it.

Flipboard

So this is how I spend all of my extra time now. Also, why did no one tell me about this sooner?

P.S. I love my iPad mini that wasn't a Christmas present just a because present.
P.S.S. my hubby is awesome.

Happy Thursday and thank The Lord because this week has been long!

Please note I now know how to take pictures of images on the iPad so nothing good is coming of this.

Inspiring Me Right Now

I'm jonesing to get some art going again but have been fending off illness, and by fending off I mean deep in throws of another one, in addition to trying to keep up the exercising, cooking at home and getting the house organized. I feel like we've finally gotten a pretty good routine going with dinner and bed time but am having some trouble working in art on a regular basis. I blame Bravo and my desire to lounge in my super comfy bathrobe.

Sophy was off yesterday for MLK day so Rolland and split the day for baby coverage. I had the morning shift and while she napped I made a necklace and got started on a couple more ideas. It was fantastic. I had thought I could keep my 4:30 am wake up time and alternate art/gym but I'm not sure how feasible that is. a) I've been pretty exhausted and b) I'd rather not have a forced stop if I get on a roll. But, I have no shortage of inspiration. Here are some of  projects that are calling my name.

Art Journaling - I've got a couple journals in progress and need to finish watching my vidoes on lettering but I still have not gotten in a good art journal fix. I really, really want to make my own journal and love the binding on the one below that Pam Garrison's posted on her blog.  Pam is the queen of journaling and I've taken a few classes with her. They are always fantastic.

Pam Garrison

Ok, maybe Pam is the queen in training to Teesha Moore. She's truly the journal goddess. I love her style while recognizing it really isn't mine. I still find her pages incredibly inspiring. I love her layouts and the lettering with the gorgeous color is such a fantastic combo. It's awesome. But, my mind isn't as surreal oriented as hers. Or anywhere near that creative. I'm jealous. But always love looking at what she's done and find myself reaching for a pen even if it's just to get in a quick doodle. I find this image especially appropriate since I'm 40 in a few weeks and the highlight of pink is always going to be a winner.

Teesha Moore

 

I can't remember which blog I found Inez Storer's work but immediately fell in love. I feel like it's got such a great stream of conscious flow that I'm dying to try. I've got a canvas that has been given a good coat of gesso and has a base coat of cerulean ... you now immediately need to go here and watch this. It's ok, I'll wait....

Love that movie.

Okay, now that I'm back and a little more focused. I think this is most likely next up. Maybe even combine the stream of conscious flow with some of my journaling to get in a two for one. After that I can immediately start worrying about where to keep the relatively large finished piece but I'm going to stay positive and call that a good problem to have.

Inez Storer

I've always got the jewelry but and have seen a few pieces like the one below that incorporates some toys into the work. I have a couple of other examples but the pins go straight to images not the source or blogs directly so I can't credit them. Drives me crazy. Poor pinning people! Also, it makes stalking soooo much harder. What? Like you don't get obsessed and immediately need to know where to track down a tiny beat up toy taxi? ... right, just me.

Super Cute Truck

This is another 2 for 1 since it's a charm bracelet but includes toys! I've been collecting old plastic charms. Yes, "collect" = "hoards" but that's not really the positive. True fact. I lost my shit one night when I lost my jar of these pieces and demanded Rolland find them immediately while I tried to not sob. I was very pregnant and a little crazy. The above might have happened normally but without the tears portion. Anyway, I think this one is super cute and could easily be done in a quick project. 

I just have to make do with giving up some of my stash. Normally I would just order up some replacements but I'm working on the hoarding and being more frugal.

Charm Obsession - Paula Montgomery

Maybe if I mix in some more stones... :)

Anything else I should add to my obsession list?

Public Apology

My friend Randall and I love ourselves some Pinterest. Seriously, we are still working on the stupid spray painted animal lid project that was all the rage two years ago. Every time we're together we bring up something we've found that's fantastic and fabulous.

But, I thought he was exaggerating when he talked about how he wished it would get back to be more design focused. More in the know. I may have rolled my eyes and been a little snarky.

Today I saw this "recipe".

Uhm, yeah. So Randall... about that eye roll....

Courage

 via 

A friend posted this on her Facebook feed and I immediately commented that I loved it. It really spoke to how I'm feeling now. After I commented she said she thought of me when she saw it. It brings tears to my eyes telling you about it now, just as it did then. The idea that she sees me that way as I still strive to be is incredible. This is so not how I see myself.

But maybe, that quiet voice is telling me I'm getting there.

80/20

Sophy Bear and I before we headed out this am. It was actually lovely, if a little precarious, with the snow and ice but it really felt like winter and I am a winter super fan. Love it. I would be happy to drive in it 70% of the time. I'm guessing this is unlikely in DFW unless the Mayans take some quick action. I also love any opportunity to snuggle this little cutie and put her in clothing with ears. Ears look good on anybody. True fact (totally stolen from my friend David, but I love it and am working it until it's no longer noticeable as not mine).

All of this is to point out how amazing this am was and I'm grateful. I have got to work on not letting "perfect be the enemy of the good". Wikipedia is mostly giving credit to Voltaire for this little nugget but I'm embracing it. I focus on perfection regularly to the detriment of a lovely trip, scene, meal, etc. I only see the things that went wrong or what was missing not what was fantastic and good. The road to happiness is not found by nitpicking. Also true fact. See what I did there. Eh, good right? Anyway, wikipedia also goes on to discuss how 20% of the effort gets you 80% return and the last 20% of the task takes 80% of the effort. For most things in life, 80% really is the goal. If the house is at 80% I get more snuggles, more baking time, more time snuggling with Rolland and so on. This is where I need to make some changes and really figure out what's worth driving myself crazy. Really, it can't be everything all the time. Madness that is. So, this rambling post, going up just like this so I can go watch more Bravo programming. Also the new Lost Girl. But what's worth the effort, getting my ass up at 4:30 tomorrow to go to the gym. 80% effort on that one! Happy Tuesday!