Calligraphy Class and Unexpected Joy

Earlier this week I had the pleasure of attending a Beginner Calligraphy Class from the lovely Lauren over at Blue Eye Brown Eye. (She is silly talented and about as adorable as they come. Promise, you will develop a massive girl crush.) I was really, really looking forward to the class because calligraphy is a craft that I'd love hone for personal correspondence and decor, for maybe a small side business some day, and for a creative outlet in general. And after my experience on Wednesday night, I could totally see this becoming like therapy for me: practicing my ascending and descending lines, developing my own style, and relishing the process of creating beautiful typography.

Sweet swag from my class at Blue Eye Brown Eye

The class itself was even better than I expected (fabulous space, sweet treats, fragrant candle burning while timeless tunes crooned in the background...), but what I didn't count on in the slightest were the other gals who joined me. I was honestly a little nervous, figuring that I'd be surrounded by picture-perfect creatives who were far too cool to converse with me. (First day of high school flash backs were dancing around in my crazy little head.) What I found were, in fact, beautiful, talented, creative ladies, but it was one of the sweetest groups I have encountered in a long time. Everyone had their own unique story and style, and they were so quick to share their hearts, speak lovingly of their families, and encourage each other with compliments on their neighbor's Os and Fs. To see a group of strangers (especially women) so quickly bond and drop down walls was incredible. (This ain't high school anymore, Toto.) I felt so stirred by the evening, and couldn't wait to get home with my arm-full of new supplies to show my beloved what I had learned.

I'm looking forward to spending the chilly weekend ahead sipping coffee and working on my strokes while my hard-workin' honey is tied up on a film shoot. Perhaps I'll even venture out and pick up some gouache to get my color on. Look out, this girl is wild!

Precious Little Moments...

Every time I catch Scrappy sleeping with his furry little paw over his face (often), I just want to smoosh him. I'm so going to be one of those moms...

I treated myself to a mani-pedi earlier this week, and it was absolutely loverly. Ever since we got the house (over a year ago now, wow), I have easily given up a lot of non-essential spending so we can nest and still enjoy going out to dinner, etc., but I was blessed with a writing opportunity and decided to splurge. (You can read the published article here.) 

The last few days I've had to commute into the Dallas area for a company retreat (not the kind a retreat spent in a spa robe with champagne, mind you), and while the drive could have started off the morning pretty sour (construction in DFW is bananas), it was hard to do anything other than worship with a view like this.

M's dad very sweetly passed along some Rangers tickets to us for last night's game, and we were positively spoiled by valet parking up by the ballpark, as well as the killer view from the first baseline. And the nachos and beer. All good things.

OPI's Berries in the Canaries makes me quite happy and is exactly what I wanted when I picked out the bottle for my mani. Awesome color for both work and play. My favorite Portland mug agrees. 

Stirred

In my estimation, a good morning and an early morning are opposing experiences. The best mornings generally involve sleeping until 10am, walking around the house for a while in my robe and slippers, hair amuck, and sipping cappuccino with M at our bistro table by the window. But this morning I had to be in the office by 6:30am for a presentation, and my opinion on the matter has been revised.

I used to regularly get in by 7am to start my workday, but as the work days dragged into the evening hours, it made more sense to start my day later, knowing I'd be on the grid until after hours anyway. Now, however, I realize that I've been missing the precious time before sunrise, the quiet stillness of a city before most have awaken.

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It's God time. I don't know how else to put it. But that's what it is. Wrapped in peace and a sense of tender attentiveness to it all, my heart something fierce today. It's never about a meeting, or a deadline, or whatever we may think is driving our lives. It's Him. And I know He called to me this morning, to experience the dawn more often, to meet Him there for a cup of coffee and communion with the Most High God.

And I will take Him up on that invitation.

DIY Coffee Filter Flowers

I was a crafty machine over the weekend, let me tell you. I haven't indulged in creative pursuits in a while (save for writing, which can be hit-and-miss these days, honestly), and I so enjoyed getting my hands dirty, perusing the aisles of local craft stores, and holding my tongue just right to execute elements of my projects.

I've been wanting to try my hand at coffee filter flowers for a while now, so when I was asked to help with the decor for an upcoming event, it was the perfect opportunity to sit down and give it a shot.

There are many tutorials out there, and I used a hybrid of methods to put mine together. Y'all, they are silly easy and quite lovely. They remind of peonies...that live forever. What's not to like?

Here is how you can make your own pretty filter flowers...

(1) Supplies you'll need: small/4-cup coffee filters, floral tape, wood floral picks, floral wire. (These items can be found in the floral aisle of your local craft store. Well, not the coffee filters, duh.)

(2) Gather a stack of 8 filters (for dense, peony-like blooms, fewer filters if you want them more delicate) and poke three holes in the filter center with the wood floral pick: one in the very center and two on either side of the central hole. 

(3) Wrap the thin wire attached to the wood floral pick around the top of the pick (to create a plug for the flower's center), then push the wood pick through the center hole to create the stem. Loop a piece of floral wire into the other two holes (flanking the center "stem") and pull the wire through to the bottom of the flower. 

(4) Wrap the wire around the wood pick. (I did it in a criss-cross pattern.) 

(5) Wrap the floral tape around the wire and pick to create a sleek stem. (This step is optional, actually. I kind of liked the way the 20 gauge fancy wire I used looked around the pick, but to be fair, there is gouging potential with the end of the wire. Your call.) 

(6) Cast aside any OCD tendencies and squish those crisp, white filters! Starting at the center, gather each filter layer one by one and squeeze it in your palm. Do this until all layers have been crinkled. (I even like to hold the layers in my palm and smash the top to make for softer "petals.")

(7) Aw, so sad flower.

(8) Now comes the fun part! Starting with the outer "petal," pull the filters back one by one and gently fluff them back out. Don't be too exact in this as some variation and irregularity looks nice, but do make sure you've un-squished every layer. (I like to pinch the center petal to keep the pick center from showing, but it doesn't look unnatural if you want to let it show.)

(9) Well hello, everlasting flower! Aren't you loverly? 

To mix it up, you can spray a finished bloom with water and a drop of food dye to add some color. I actually dabbed one bud with a freshly used tea bag for a soft beige tint, and after letting it dry, really liked the way it came out. (You could do the same with coffee, natch.)

Styled in a modern vase filled with coffee beans to balance the romantic folds of these no-maintenance buds, this pretty piece easily compliments your home or office. Enjoy your handiwork and a cup of roasted goodness while you're at it!

If you're feeling crafty, be sure to check out my DIYs for the Rifle Paper Co.-inspired recipe box and an Ikea Hack bookshelf makeover!

What was shopping like before the internet?

When I'm looking for style or home decor inspiration, I head over to Pinterest and kiss away the next few hours. I pin perfectly designed lovelies all the live long day, ignoring the fact that many of those looks (whether for the home or for the bod) are highly impractical for the average gal (or, perhaps, a clumsy brunette who insists on carrying fifteen things at once to avoid multiple trips and refuses to spend more than $40 on...well, anything).

When I have made the oh-so-important decision to make a purchase, my first stop is generally Etsy. I heart Etsy, y'all. It makes my handmade-loving heart pitter patter, and you can't beat the unique charm of the many affordable items available from its crafty sellers.

Case in point...

My lovely gold disc necklace from CVennell that I wear pretty much every day.

Gone are the days of driving from shop to shop, milling through aisles of stuff and mentally piecing together items. Now we can sit on our couch, wrapped up in a blankie with a messy pony, and feel fabulously chic as we assemble collages and inspiration boards to guide our aesthetic creations.

I don't know about y'all, but I'm OK with that. I can still get down with visiting a mall or shopping center every now and again, but that usually has more to do with the free A/C and soft pretzel situation. (Hey, a girl has needs.)
 
How do you shop, readers?
 

Things That Make Me Frolic

Spring is just lovely, don't you think? The beautiful weather here in the south right now makes me positively giddy. I can't help but smile thinking of all the sweet spring details. 

Flowers and trees bloom and revive from their barren winter state. True, blooms bring bees. And I hate bees. But I'll gladly brave the little buggers for this glorious sight.

Mmmmm...iced coffee. Really, all iced beverages are a special kind of yum during these breezy, sunny months. But you can't beat the light kick of a delicious icy roast.

'Tis the season of fabulous wedges, sandals, and showing off those pretty ankles. If my toes didn't curl up like an elf's, I'd be all over the pedi-baring peep-toes. Thankfully, there are still plenty of saucy shoes to chose from that don't expose my pixie toes.

Mmmmmm....gelato. This cool treat pairs well with a walk at dusk and a long chat on the porch into the evening, feet kicked up...and citronella candles ready for action. (I'm in Texas, after all. Skeeters love those pretty ankles, too.)

What has you jazzed for spring right now?

All images via Pinterest.

Friday Favorites, v.18

Ok, so technically this is v.1 of "Friday Favorites," but as it's a reincarnation of my "Friday, I'm in Love" series, I'm just going to pick up where I left off. The format and spirit are the same, but I don't want to loosely throw around being in love with anything (especially stuff). Thus, I present my Friday Favorites.

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I adore flowers. I really do. I've long appreciated the rich fragrance of lilies, the feminine fullness of peonies and the special sentimentality of gardenias, but ranunculus in particular are making me especially happy as of late. They're so lovely. 

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M and I broke in my new food processor the other day by making some homemade hummus. Um, yum, y'all. We used an Alton Brown recipe (sub. canned organic chickpeas), and while I can see us experimenting with different flavors and ingredients, I doubt I'll ever buy hummus from the store again. It's so easy and so delicious.

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I blame the fashion-major roomie in college, but I am just smitten with fashion sketches. They capture creativity in such an elegant way. I've been on the lookout for a sketch to frame for my home. (Wishing I could afford one from Dallas Shaw.)

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I want all things linen and I blame Pinterest. Especially when paired with a romantic element (like soft hues, ruffles, or lavender, above), the texture of linen anything is just fantastic. (Oh, hello, header...)

What are your favorites today?

P.S. Hello and welcome to my new followers! So glad to have you and thanks for reading!

Friday, I'm in Love, v.15

It's Friday and I'm in love with...

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I now realize that taking daily walks in a shopping center with an Anthropologie is highly dangerous. During my perusing earlier this week, I spotted this railroad spike cuff and nearly knocked over a rack of earrings trying to grab one. I was surprised at how great it looks with my MK watch, particularly with the spike side up. (Sadly, I didn't buy it. The reason for that has eluded me at the moment...) Heart.

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Get it? Man, do I love me a play on words. This cheeky card is one of several I found on Etsy that would be perfect for my cerebral cutie. (I'm a nerd. I own it.)

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Want. Waaaaant. Wednesday's debut of the TOMS ballet flats was every bit as exciting as I thought it would be. The prices? Not so much. But could these be any more perfect? Great color, great material, great support/comfort...I mean, this style is called "Natalia." Coincidence? Me thinks not!

Your eyes are not deceiving you; that is a salad. Yes, I'm loving salad. Well, I'm loving all things healthy at the moment, really. M and I got back on our walking/jogging routine (praying my knee allows that to continue), and it never ceases to amaze me how physical fitness inspires healthier choices when it comes to eating and drinking. I think less about taste and more about nutrition (though, rest assured, this salad was every bit as good as it looks).

Have a great weekend, friends!

Austin Road Trip Recap {Photo Post}

{THURSDAY} M made us to-go cappuccinos as we hit the road for Austin. (Jesus Panda loves road trips.)

Once in Austin, we joined our friends for lunch at Bouldin Creek Cafe (where I promptly scarfed down a Veggie Royale), walked along the trails, ran a few errands, picked up some coffee from Dominican Joe to rally for a late evening, and snacked on Izzoz tacos before heading out for the show.

All dressed up with Biscuit, one of my besties. We sipped on cabernet and swooned as we took in the show with our men.

The Civil Wars were AMAZING. It is rare to hear a band that sounds even better in person than they do on their album (especially with just a guitar and piano as accompaniment to their beautiful harmonies), but they're phenomenal. See them, especially if you can catch them at a venue as gorgeous as The Paramount.

{FRIDAY} Late breakfast at 24 Diner. Their veggie hash and coffee is probably one of my favorite meals, which goes to show you that quality ingredients can make a simple dish extraordinary. After fueling up, we perused the Whole Food flagship store across the street and stocked up on non-perishable yummies.

We rented a kayak from our hotel and paddled along Lady Bird Lake (Town Lake if you're OG), taking in the lovely view of downtown and heckling hippy ducks. An afternoon catnap followed shortly after. 

Oh, Mandola's Italian Market. So, so yum. The concept of this place is adorable, from the fresh breads, meats and cheeses, to the accordion serenading dine-in guests as they enjoy house wines and delectable Italian eats.

M and I started with garlic fries and pesto dip, as well as herb-infused olive oil and freshly baked bread. For dinner, I ordered my usual (cheese ravioli) while M sampled the evening's special: five cheese manicotti. I swear, their marinara is laced with magic. It was like dining in Europe and we had the most lovely dinner date. 

I couldn't leave without grabbing some gelato! They didn't have coffee flavor, which is my fave, but the mint was quite good.

After our Italian feast, we headed over to the Biscuit home to share some beverages and catch up. There are no photos from that portion of the evening, despite making it through without another seventh-grade-style slow dance to Wham's "Careless Whisper." (I don't know.)

{SATURDAY} Before heading home, we grabbed some cupcakes from Sugar Mama's (M finally got to experience The Hemingway...hummina) and dined at Mother's Cafe. I opted for one of their classics: the artichoke enchiladas with vegan cheese.  

I missed a few photo ops here and there, but hopefully these shots provide a glimpse at the loveliness of our visit. We had such a fantastic weekend and definitely got our fill of good times and delicious eats. Can't wait to venture down south again soon!

Fabulous Find

In trying to be mindful of unneccesary spending, I haven't allowed myself to shop in a while. But my birthday is around the corner (Wednesday, eep!) so I decided a few pretties might not be so bad. I do think it's important to purchase items that you love, but as I am still a thrifty gal at heart (despite my expensive taste), budget-friendly stores are often where I start perusing for my wish list items. (See, there's a focus, at least!)

Enter: Old Navy. I typically have zero luck at ON, except for PJ pants or basic tees. But I lucked out and found this little pretty just yesterday...


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A proper blouse that I can hand wash and is under $30? Come to Natty! The fabric is soft as can be and the color is even prettier in person. (I also like the navy blue printed one, but I opted for this Bali shade.)

I styled this top with black slacks (tucked in), a simple black leather belt and flats, with silver hoops and loose waves. (Very Calvin Klein.) But it would also look lovely with skinnies tucked into riding boots, or dressed up with cuffed dark denim, my nude slingbacks and gold MK watch. (Because ON uses vanity sizing, it has a very blousy-borderlining-on-tunic fit. Well, it does for this shorty, at least.) And though the sleeves are shown rolled up (which some of the reviews complain doesn't stay), I left them loose with the button secured, which I happen to think looks more chic and flattering.

I am on a mission to invest in lovely, quality (read: pricey) pieces for my wardrobe, but this frugal find was just too great to pass up and keep to myself.

Have you found any steals lately? Do tell!

My Hit List

Today I have the absolute pleasure of sharing my Hit List over at Do I Even Like This? A & E asked me to share some of the lovelies that are on my radar (in the same vein as my Friday, I'm in Love posts) as part of their Blogger's Hit List series. These gals update their own Hit Lists (viewable on the sidebars of their blog) quite frequently, and I love peeping their selections. (These gals have great taste, let me tell you!)

Check it out and let me know what would be on your Hit List!

Ballerina Chic

Having spent over a decade as a ballerina, there is something within that still lights up at even the slightest hint of that pink satin world. (Much in the same way I start searching for the nearest barre on which to practice my plies whenever I hear classical music. It's all very Pavlovian.)

I'm pleased as punch to see all of the charming ways in which ballet style has seeped into fashion at large. Some of these details are considered classic at this point (er, pointe...hehe), while others serve as a whimsical nod to the prima ballerina within us all.

All photos via Pinterest

Have you gotten in on this trend? What is your favorite ballerina-inspired look?

Nesting: The Perfect Tray

As I disassemble the Christmas tree and return the furniture to its original layout, I find myself once again noticing all the decor elements missing in my apartment: a statement piece for the wall above the TV, a rug for the living room, decorative pieces for the dresser, etc. But until I have fully recovered from holiday spending, small, budget-friendly touches will have to tide me over.

My current quest: the perfect tray(s) on which to display photos, candles and other decor elements, creating organized vignettes throughout the apartment. There are so many options available as far as color, texture and shape. I'm having a hard time narrowing it down to just a few, so don't be surprised to find my place positively littered with trays in no time!

Some of my favorites at the moment...


elegant chevron // simple mirrored // sexy snakeskin
croc that pops // clean white // in my dreams


I'm still learning how to maximize use of color and create interesting focal points; the pop of color and texture of the square croc tray from Z Gallerie would create an ideal canvas for this. But the clean simplicity of the white and mirrored numbers are timeless and would fit perfectly with the throwback vibe of my bedroom. (Fresh gardenias, vintage family photos and antique skeleton keys, anyone?)

Which is your favorite? What would you include in your vignette?

Christmas Spoils

To say that I am blessed is an understatement. I am positively spoiled. The sheer volume of gifts, on top of the thoughtfulness with which each item was selected, was nearly overwhelming. In the sound words of Wayne and Garth: "[I'm] not worthy!"

Cuddled up at work with a few of my gifts.
Anthro scarf & Natalya's Studio cozy

A sample from this year's collection o' lovely gifts: J. Crew Majesty peacoat, proper pajamas, Hello Kitty slippers and ornament, food processor(s), gorgeous graphite date book featured here, Sur La Table measuring cups and spoons, bamboo cutting board, I Love Your Style, cozy scarves, framed photos of me and my honey, and a stash of my fave candies (Red Vines, Heath bar, Almond Roca, Mounds) to last me months! See? Spoiled.

Fabulous gifts aside, this Christmas was wonderful for many reasons...
~It was my first with M; truly a holiday to remember.
~My dear Mamaw had a scare on Christmas Eve but recovered completely to join us for Christmas lunch.
~My brother was able to fly in from Cali.
~I was blessed with some absolutely fantastic moments with the kiddos.
~And most importantly, every celebration began with prayer, thanking God for the gift of His son, that we may have life because of Christ. A family rooted in faith is an immeasurable gift.

I hope you all had a wonderful weekend of celebration and love, and that it continues into this week and the new year. We truly have so much to celebrate, every day. Enjoy the time of rest, for those of you cuddled up and disconnecting for a few more days.