The Sweetest Petunia

an afternoon of projects!

2012-01-27T09:06:00.000-05:00

Last week, my dear friend Elisabeth {check out her blog!}

& I got together for an afternoon to do some projects.

We tried 2 different things, tile coasters & stenciled mugs.

It was great to have an afternoon specifically set aside for crafting.

We had a lot of fun working on our designs & chatting about life. ;)

We definitely plan on doing this again!

What projects have you been working on lately?

Have a wonderful weekend!

something to say.

2012-01-25T08:00:00.000-05:00

I have to confess...

I love blogging. I really, really do.
But with the blog world, it becomes easy for me to compare.
To become discontent with who I am.
With my life, my shop, my clothes, etc.

But, there are a few things I'm sure of.

No one in this world can be a better me.

Even if I don't blog about the "right" trends,
the latest DIY projects,
don't have the cutest clothes out there,
am not a great photographer.
I get discouraged & distracted,
and I waste more time than I care to admit.

There's so much I'm not,
but there's also so much that I am.

I am a child of the Most High.
His love & grace carry me through
everything I do, even the failures.

I am married to the sweetest husband.
I am a wife, and I make that a priority,
even if it means that I spend most of my day
doing dishes & laundry.

I am a lover of color, of creativity,
of good coffee and good books.
I stitch & snip & take out stitches
when I get it wrong.
I love music & song & melody.

I'm silly & kinda strange.
Unique & curious.
Shy & insecure.

I am just me.
& I'm thankful that I'm me.

*****

Thank you for taking the time to read this.
It's something that's been on my heart to share.

Also, just so you know,
I'm trying to make it okay if I don't blog every single day.
I don't want my blog to get in the way of living life.
I will definitely still be posting, but if I feel like I have nothing to say,
I'm choosing to be okay with that. ;)

Have a lovely day!

currently...

2012-01-23T08:56:00.000-05:00

listening...

to my Hayley Westenra station on Pandora.

eating...

toast with peanut butter; my favorite breakfast.

drinking...

coffee, of course. ;)

wearing...

still in my pajamas.

feeling...

very tired. It's Monday morning.

weather...

sunny!

wanting...

more hours in the day.

needing...

to make a grocery list.

And clean the bathrooms. And fold the laundry.

thinking...

about all the things I have to get done today, apparently.

enjoying...

my slow morning routine before the crazy begins.

Happy Monday to you.

hello, Friday.

2012-01-20T09:46:00.000-05:00

I'm so glad that it's Friday.

This has been a good week, but a busy one.

I'm looking forward to sleeping in this weekend,

spending time with family & friends,

and working on various projects.

Here's a little peek at my week through my Instagram shots...

-- Mini clothespins for all my embroidery floss. Yay for no tangles!

-- Pretty grocery store flowers make me smile.

-- Finally used my free drink from my birthday! But I share with my husband, too. ;)

-- We got some super vibrant delphiniums over the weekend; so cheerful!

-- A trip to Target. Added some rosies so my outfit looked more put together.

-- Started Northanger Abbey this week, the only Austen I haven't read yet.

-- Creativity is very messy sometimes.

-- My family's adorable puppy, Nora.

-- A trip to IKEA this week so my husband actually has a desk. ;)

-- Spent yesterday afternoon doing projects with a sweet friend {will share more soon!}.

-- Part of my goal to write more letters this year.

-- John 1:17. Love this truth.

{{If you'd like to follow along on Instagram, I'm thesweetpetunia.}}

Have an absolutely lovely weekend!

finding joy.

2012-01-16T09:41:00.000-05:00

{source}

The Lord has done great things for us, and we are filled with joy.

- Psalm 126:3

For a long time, I struggled with finding joy & contentment in my everyday life.
It's gotten easier. God has done amazing things for me, so why shouldn't I be joyful?!

Some little, ordinary things that bring me joy:

- spending time with my sweet husband

- grocery store flowers in mason jars

- reading the Psalms

- stitches coming together to make something pretty

- lovely new fabrics

- accomplishing my running workouts

- sipping my morning coffee

- FaceTime with my family

- soup & grilled cheese {yum!}

- clean dishes

What's bringing you some simple joy today?

projects on my list.

2012-01-13T08:00:00.000-05:00

{1} side panel shirt refashion

{2} chunky circle scarf

{3} washi tape clothespin magnets

{4} diy coasters

{5} lined drawstring bag

What projects are on your list currently?

lists + focus

2012-01-11T09:09:00.000-05:00

I am very easily distracted.

There's so much to see & do & think & read & write & craft & sew!

{see what I mean? lots of distractions}

Sometimes, I just have to sit down & make myself a list.

I think it helps because I can see my goal, have boxes to check.

Are the lists always exciting? Nope.

You can see a little of my list from yesterday, and it's pretty mundane stuff

like dishes, laundry, putting away all the Christmas stuff, vacuuming.

Do I always get everything checked off my list? No.

But that's okay. I just keep working on it until I'm done.

I love my lists. They keep me focused & on track. :)

{and yes, I'm silly, and I'm okay with that. wink, wink.}

the bird lists in the picture were found here.
love this cute "ta-da!" list.
today's 6 most important things list.

these lists are free for you to print!

linking up with Krystina today, because I love lists. ;)

couch to 5k {weeks 2-4}

2012-01-10T09:10:00.000-05:00

So, I'm still not {what I would consider} a runner.

But, starting up week 5 of the Couch to 5k,

I'm beginning to feel a lot better about my running.

I've had some hard days, where all I really wanted to do was fall on the ground,

but I've pushed through & finished every workout so far.

I'm really, really slow, and I tend to use up all my energy during

the first half of the workout, which means I really have to push to finish.

But, I'm determined to at least make it to the end of the program,

and hopefully, the more I run, the better I'll get.

The one thing I don't have is a good running playlist...

I've been running without any music, which can get a little boring.

So, that brings me to my question for today...

What song is a must for your running playlist?

hello, Monday.

2012-01-09T08:58:00.000-05:00

hello, Monday.

hello, happiness because my husband is home!

hello, celebrating a year since my guy proposed

& three months of marriage!

hello, counting calories & running & trying to get fit.

hello, starting week five of the Couch-2-5k program.

{I'll update you on that another day...}

hello, lots of projects to work on!

I don't know about you, but I love making new things. :)

hello, new blog look!

I'm kinda in love with it.

hello, meal planning & list making.

hello, dishes & laundry & normal life.

hello, new week.

What are you saying hello to this week?

inspired by the lovely Lisa!

snapshots from my week.

2012-01-06T08:00:00.000-05:00

Happy Friday!

me on the first day of 2012

husband & I are trying out this journaling project for the year

made myself a sweet little case for my sunglasses ;)

reading late at night when I should be sleeping

ordered new phone cases for the husband + I

a yummy dinner :: chicken avocado salad, homemade chips + corn

adorable new washi tape = can't wait to create with it!

working my way through week 4...

a box of notes & letters from my love.

{today marks 5 years together!}

what I wore on Wednesday

skirt, sweater :: Old Navy

boots :: Target

scarf :: made by me!

gorgeous Florida

Thursday :: hanging out with sisters,

super casual in my sunglasses & hubby's aero tee.

How has your week been?

if you'd like to follow me on Instagram, I'm thesweetpetunia :)

linking up with Jeannett!

adore.

2012-01-04T10:41:00.000-05:00

I adore him. I really, really do.

He's off on a trip the rest of this week {for work},

and I miss him so much already!

I'll be distracting myself by hanging out with friends,

shopping for new project supplies at Joanns,

having my sisters come over for a stay,

working on fun things.

I'm sure he'll be home before I know it. ;)

hello, 2012.

2012-01-02T10:43:00.000-05:00

Hello, lovelies!

I hope your holidays were merry & bright...

I had a wonderful time celebrating with my husband & our families,

and I'm so excited for what the new year may hold. :)

{a his + hers journaling project}

I'm not great with New Year's Resolutions.

Staying motivated is hard for me.

But for 2012, this is what I want...

grow in Christ.

finish reading through the whole bible. pray more!

spend time with God every day.

get fit.

complete the C25k program. work out more. Wii Fit.

work on portion control. lose 10 lbs.

cut out soda.

at least temporarily. drink more water!

grow The Sweetest Petunia & Petunia Blooms.

watch less, read more.

write more letters.

& send encouragement cards just because!

create for the sake of creating

not because I have to, not just for the shop.

just for me.

date my husband.

making him feel loved, respected & important.

enjoy every moment.

to you & yours

2011-12-25T08:00:00.000-05:00

wishing you all the joy of Christmas...

Have a lovely & wonderful day!

***

Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son,

and they shall call his name Immanuel

(which means, God with us).

-- Matthew 1:23

I'll be taking a blog break from the next week or so...

I'll see you next year!

{21 things}

2011-12-23T08:00:00.000-05:00

to celebrate my 21st birthday {the 25th},

I'm sharing 21 random things about me...

some you may know, some you may not,

but hopefully you enjoy!

{1} My birthday is on Christmas Day.

{2} I lived in the same city, the same house for 20 years.

{3} I married my favorite guy on October 8th!

{4} I have 4 younger sisters, aged 18, 16, 14 & 7.

{5} My dad is the youth pastor & music leader at our church.

{6} My mom is short. Like 4'11" short.

{7} I started taking piano lessons when I was 9.

{8} I learned sewing basics from my grandmothers.

{9} A sweet older lady from our church taught me to crochet years & years ago.

{10} I started the Couch to 5k program last week!

{11} Coffee is always a must for my morning.

{12} Alexandre Dumas is one of my very favorite authors.

I've read The Three Musketeers like 5 times.

{13} I love old movies & TV shows.

{14} Have you ever watched Monk? That is one of the modern shows I love.

{15} I have some OCD tendencies for sure. ;)

{16} I'm a nail-biter. I've almost broken the habit a few times...

but I can't seem to shake it.

{17} I'm a dog person. Definitely not a cat person.

{18} Coming up with 21 things about oneself is not as easy as it seems.

{19} I love color. Some of my favorites are pink, grey, plum, teal & mint.

{20} I'm thankful for the opportunity to share my creativity

with my shop, Petunia Blooms.

{21} I love Jesus. I am far from perfect, but I try to follow Him in everything I do.

So, tell me a random fact about yourself?

It's fun!

a couple announcements

2011-12-22T09:54:00.000-05:00

Just wanted to let you lovelies know that there's an opportunity

for you to win this adorable ruffled clutch,

so hop on over to Lindsay's blog to check it out!

Also, for today & tomorrow only,

I will send a free gift along with any Petunia Blooms purchase.

A little "Merry Christmas" from me to you!

{wrapping it up}

2011-12-21T09:16:00.000-05:00

pretty packaging gets me every time...

sheet music + twine

green velvet ribbon + a little ornament

kraft paper + cute tags + washi tape

a simple little wreath

This year I just got wrapping paper at Walmart & printed out some cute tags,

but I think next year I'm going to do kraft paper with pops of festive color. So fun!

linking up with Krystina!

couch to 5k {week one}

2011-12-19T09:31:00.001-05:00

I started running last week.

This is a big deal for me.

I am not a runner.

But I want to be fit & healthy,

so I started the Couch to 5k program.

It starts out slow, which is exactly what I need.

I have no endurance, I get worn out really easily...

When I started the first workout, I felt really good.

I got to the halfway mark & felt like I was going to die.

BUT, then I finished the workout & it didn't seem that bad.

I guess I just had to push myself a little harder. :)

So, since I blog about my life, I wanted to share about my

Couch to 5k experience each week.

It's not what I would usually blog about, but it's important to me.

Thanks for reading along!

{merry christmas q&a}

2011-12-16T08:00:00.000-05:00

stole this from Libby...so fun!

1. egg nog or hot chocolate? I really dislike eggnog, but hot chocolate stirred with a candy cane is super yummy!

2. does santa wrap presents or just sit them under the tree? We don't do Santa at all, but presents should always be wrapped.

3. colored lights on tree/house or white? I prefer white; it just coordinates better with everything {to me}.

4. do you hang mistletoe? Never have, but it might be kinda fun. ;)

5. when do you put your decorations up? I like to celebrate one holiday at a time, so definitely after Thanksgiving. It at least has to be December.

6. what is your favorite holiday dish? Hmmm...I'm actually not sure. I really like stuffing with lots of gravy on it.

7. favorite holiday memory as a child? Going to pick out a Christmas tree, then listening to Christmas music while we all decorated it.

8. when and how did you learn the truth about santa? It was never an issue because we never did Santa. I used to get in trouble with other parents for telling their kids that Santa wasn't real {when I was like 5/6}.

9. do you open a gift on christmas eve? Nope.

10. how do you decorate your christmas tree? White lights, red & gold-ish balls, some special ornaments & snowflakes. I used a red tablecloth for a tree skirt, too! ;)

11. snow! love it or dread it? I thought I hated it, but then we spent last Christmas up north with my grandparents and I loooved it! I wouldn't want to live in it, though.

12. can you ice skate? It's been like 10 years since I went ice skating...I really want to go again soon!

13. do you remember your favorite gift? Hmmm, not sure. I've had a lot of favorite gifts over the years!

14. what's the most important thing about the holidays for you? Celebrating the birth of the Savior, spending time with family.

15. what is your favorite holiday dessert? If it includes chocolate, I'm happy!

16. what is your favorite holiday tradition? It's always been special that my dad would read us Luke 2 on Christmas morning before we could open gifts.

17. what tops your tree? Growing up, an angel {from my parent's December wedding}, now a star.

18. which do you prefer: giving or receiving? I really love giving...but I also really enjoy receiving. :)

19. candy canes: yuck or yum? YUM. I've already eaten too many this season...

20. favorite christmas show? I really love Holiday Inn. Bing Crosby AND Fred Astaire in the same movie!

21. saddest christmas song? The Christmas Shoes. Hate it. Won't listen to it ever. {also, Matthew West's One Last Christmas is terribly sad, too...}

22. what is your favorite christmas song? Um...I love so many Christmas songs! Chris Tomlin's version of Joy to the World, Winter Wonderland, White Christmas, O Holy Night, a bunch of the Christmas hymns, etc, etc.

How about you?

{Christmas at our place}

2011-12-13T15:09:00.000-05:00

So, I may have mentioned it,

but I really love Christmas.

And can you believe it's only 11 days away?!

This year has been especially exciting,

since I get to celebrate with my new husband.

We got to go pick out a tree,

string lights, hang the ornaments...

so much fun!

our little dining room

{the lighting is terrible, but the decorations are adorable!}

table runner & snowflakes from Target

mason jars from my collection

candy canes from Walmart

braided yarn garland made by me

& our tree!!

I absolutely love it. :)

some of our special ornaments

we also got a little baby tree...

stockings from Target

nativity from cbd

I love coming downstairs every morning to see our pretty tree.

All the decorations make it seem so festive.

And celebrating our Savior's birth is an amazing thing.

What is your favorite Christmas tradition?

I'd love to hear about it!

linking up with Krystina & the Nester!

{cold hands, warm hearts}

2011-12-12T09:00:00.001-05:00

I was so excited to find out that there would be another

Cold Hands, Warm Hearts swap this year!

This year my swap partner is Nicole

from Sew Much Sunshine.

She sent me a very cute package of pretty things...

Nicole is pretty awesome, because she found out I live in Florida

& sent appropriate accessories for our not-so-cold weather. :)

adorable fingerless gloves {with bows on them!}

a light, pretty neckwarmer in one of my favorite colors

a cute ruffled coffee cozy

yummy-smelling lotion & hand sanitizer

and chapstick, perfect because my lips get so dry!

Thanks so much for the awesome package, Nicole!

So excited to get to know you through the swap. :)

and thanks to Ilene & Sandy for hosting again!

What is your favorite cold weather accessory?

{color love} evergreen

2011-12-09T09:15:00.001-05:00

It's been a looong time since I've done a {color love} post!

This color is holiday-inspired, lovely for this season.

{ evergreen }

{1} a fun watch

{2} a fancy place setting

{3} a cozy scarf

{4} a shoe perfect for holiday parties

{5} a pretty dress, too

{6} a great bag

{7} and some lovely greenery

What is your favorite color for

the Christmas season?

{what i love} wishing for...

2011-12-07T09:02:00.001-05:00

How is it Wednesday already?! Crazy.

Christmas is coming up, which means gifts for the people you love!

{I won't lie & say that I don't like gifts...}

So I just wanted to share some favorites of mine...

maybe you'll spot a great gift for someone you know!

{1} "bloom" hoop art from BlossomAndVine

{2} Bleak House by Charles Dickens iPhone/iPod charging dock

{3} grey & white chevron pillow cover from moxiemandie

{4} bird in tree stationery set from naomilynn

{5} pocket clutch from sewchatty

{6} chevron necklace from michellesmith

{7} navy polka earrings from Bebecha

linking up with Krystina!

weekend fun!

2011-12-05T08:17:00.001-05:00

Since we got married, I've cherished weekends a lot more than I used to.

I love having my man home, sleeping in a little,

having coffee together since he doesn't have to rush off to work.

This weekend was especially special.

My 21st birthday is on Christmas Day,

so we celebrated early!

Hubby took me shopping, lunch at Chik-Fil-A,

dessert & candles to blow out.

It was a very nice way to celebrate a birthday. :)

other weekend highlights include...

...going tree shopping!

I love Christmas, and getting a tree is always one of my favorite things.

We picked out a really nice one,

and my sweet husband even let me get a little baby tree. ;)

I've been working on getting the decorations up,

and I definitely plan to share pictures soon!

...celebrating another birthday!

My niece turned 4 yesterday,

and Saturday she had a little party.

Love my little nieces & nephews!

...church on Sunday.

I took a break from playing keyboard on

our music team when I got married,

but I played again yesterday & loved it.

I miss having a piano/keyboard in the house.

...birthday celebration with my family.

I had lunch with my family after church,

and they had a little party for me.

Complete with ice cream cake & a gift!

...Christmas shopping with my mom.

Apparently I'm good at shopping for other people,

so I helped my mom pick out gifts for a sister.

...just relaxing.

It's a nice time to unwind before the schedule of a new week.

How was your weekend?

I hope my ramblings didn't bore you...

InstaFriday

2011-12-02T09:23:00.001-05:00

It's InstaFriday!

{1} wearing my new plaid top & a favorite Lisa Leonard necklace earlier this week. love.

{2} my man had to work late, but he brought Starbucks home!

{3} going out for dinner, rocking a side braid

{4} one of my favorite Bible verses, Deuteronomy 33:26-27

{5} out with my favorite guy!

{6} my husband cracks me up. he's silly. :)

{7} our version of peppermint mochas - yum!

{8} afternoon manicure/pedicure + Dr. Pepper. perfect.

{9} a birthday gift for my little niece; a Rapunzel braid. so cute.

{10} fancy new running shoes. not that I run much...

{11} this candle smells like Christmas. amazingly so.

{12} crocheting pretty little ornaments.

And, I got my scarfament swap package in the mail from Lindsay!!

She wrapped it up so cute {I totally failed comparatively, sorry girl!},

and I absolutely love my cozy new cowl & sweet ornaments.

Thanks so much, friend!

{also, she's giving away a cowl right now if you want one for yourself...}

Happy Friday, everyone!

dear December,

2011-12-01T09:50:00.001-05:00

{from here}

I'm so glad you're finally here!

You are my absolute favorite month of the whole year.

I can now sing Christmas carols with reckless abandon,

deck the halls of our little home,

wrap up lovely presents for the ones I love,

wonder what my hubby's getting for me... {wink!}

celebrate my 21st birthday,

eat lots of yummy Christmas cookies,

enjoy the glow of the season,

and remember that my Savior's birth is the real reason

for this wonderful time of the year!

cozy up with crocheting.

2011-11-30T08:57:00.001-05:00

I love all sorts of creative endeavors,

and crocheting is definitely one of my favorites!

I was blessed to have an older lady from church teach me

the crocheting basics years & years ago,

and I just wanted to share a few simple projects...

a cozy circle scarf

{thanks to Lindsay for sharing this with me!}

I've made several of these already for blog friends,

and they're really easy & fun.

a pretty potholder

I made a couple of these potholders for myself

before I got married, and I love them!

Especially perfect for putting under hot bowls of soup. :)

cute little ornaments

I think these are lovely,

and I just got the supplies to make some yesterday.

I'm hoping to make a couple today!

{I think they'd make adorable gift toppers, too.}

Do you crochet?

If any of you have any crocheting questions, etc,

I'd be happy to help! ;)

*****

Hey, you can enter to win this sweet little gift set
from Petunia Blooms!
Just head over to Caroline's blog. ;)

a pretty new necklace {christmas craft along!}

2011-11-28T08:23:00.001-05:00

Hello, morning!

I've got my coffee in hand,

Christmas music playing,

a looong list of chores to finish {later},

and a sweet project to share with you!

I really love to give handmade gifts for Christmas.

{I wrote about it last year, too.}

This year, my list seems longer, and I'm not making as many gifts.

BUT I definitely did a bunch of my shopping on Etsy

to support other handmade shops. ;)

Here's a little project I did on Saturday,

a pretty pom pom necklace for one of my sisters-in-law...

cutting lots & lots of small circles...

making progress...

and it's done!

I used this tutorial from Little Miss Momma.

It was pretty easy & only took me about an hour to put together.

The only change I made is that I'm going to add a necklace clasp to the chain,

just to make it easier to put on/take off.

It's a beautiful necklace,

and I'm pretty sure my sister-in-law will love it!

Are you making any of your gifts this year?

Maybe someone on your list would love this necklace, too!

**HOLIDAY SPECIAL!**

All orders $20+ will include a free gift!

shop Petunia Blooms now!

{handmade} black friday deals!

2011-11-25T00:00:00.000-05:00

You can click on any picture to visit the shop.Please be sure to read ALL of the sale information below each ad before making a purchase.Happy shopping!
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so thankful.

2011-11-23T09:08:00.001-05:00

I'm taking the day off tomorrow to spend time with my husband & our family,

so I'm posting some things I'm thankful for early...

Oh, and be sure to stop by on Friday!

I'll be sharing some great handmade Black Friday deals

that you won't want to miss.

{our leaves for my in-laws' thankful tree}

I have SO much to be thankful for.

I really, really do.

I'm thankful that my Father's grace is all-sufficient,

no matter how many times I mess up.

I'm thankful for my wonderful, amazing husband.

I'm thankful that this year he is my husband, not just my boyfriend.

I'm thankful for how hard he works.

That he helps me out in so many ways.

That he makes me a better version of me.

That he loves me through all my craziness.

I'm thankful for my family {which is now a lot bigger!}.

I'm thankful for the way my parents raised me,

even though I didn't always agree with them.

I'm thankful for my 4 little sisters.

I'm thankful that I have great in-laws.

For my friendship with my sisters-in-law.

For my sweet nieces & nephews.

I'm thankful that my husband fully supports me in

being a stay-at-home wife {and someday, mother!}.

Thankful that I can serve him by taking care of our home.

That it gives me time to pursue all my various projects.

That he doesn't say anything when he comes home to a crazy crafting mess...

I'm thankful for my husband's job.

That even in all the crazy changes,

God has been faithful & provided so much for us.

I'm thankful for our cozy home.

Thankful for a place to call our own.

I'm thankful for the ability to create.

For my hands & the things they can do with fabric, hot glue, etc.

For my sewing machine.

Thankful for my little shop, Petunia Blooms.

For color, needles & thread, crocheting, and more.

I'm thankful for music.

Thankful for the years of piano lessons I've had.

Thankful that it's something I can use in my church.

Thankful for all the music I can listen to on Pandora.

For all the inspiration music holds.

I'm thankful for good books.

Thankful that my mom taught me to love reading,

all those years ago.

Thankful for libraries & book stores.

Thankful for all the things I've learned just through reading.

I'm thankful for my little corner of the blog world.

Thankful for the lovely ladies I've "met" through blogging.

Thankful for your encouragement, dear readers.

I'm thankful to be me.

For this wonderful life I've been given.

For finding joy in the everyday.

So much to be thankful for,

and not just on Thanksgiving. :)

What are you thankful for today?

hello.

2011-11-20T23:40:00.001-05:00

hello, monday.

hello, soreness...why does my body feel so old?!

hello, Starbucks. {a caramel macchiatto for me, please!}

hello, Christmas shopping with my sisters-in-law.

hello, a-million-and-one projects to get done in the next couple weeks.

hello, housework.

hello, Thanksgiving is THURSDAY. Crazy.

hello, green bean casserole & apple pies. {those will be my contributions to the meal!}

hello, blessings. I have SO much to be thankful for.

hello, handsome husband. <3

hello, happiness. :)

{inspired by the lovely Lisa Leonard, of course...}

{the little things} :: my week in pictures

2011-11-18T09:04:00.001-05:00

It's been a good week.

I can hardly believe it's Friday already!

Here's a peek at what I've been up to all week...

a cinnamon dolce latte on a chilly morning /// pumpkin spice muffins for a yummy treat

crocheting a pretty circle scarf /// a flower "garden" {hair clips for my nieces}

finally finished all the thank you notes from the wedding! /// I love Monopoly :)

an extra ice cube tray + my messy assortment of bobby pins =

a cheap way to organize them!

Want to follow me on Instagram?

I'm petuniablooms!

{fun with my sister!}

2011-11-17T08:57:00.001-05:00

Did you know that I have 4 sisters?

I grew up in a house of all girls {except for my dad},

and it was definitely fun.

Crazy, but fun. ;)

My little sister is staying with us for the next couple days,

and I'm so excited about having some time with my her!

We have plans to go to Starbucks, shopping, a trip to JoAnn's,

watching Monk, and just hanging out.

She's my best friend, other than my hubby. :)

*****

Hey, guess what?!

You could win a $30 shop credit to Petunia Blooms!

Just head over to Natalie's Sentiments to enter.

You could get a head start on some Christmas shopping... ;)

{handmade gift ideas}

2011-11-16T08:30:00.001-05:00

I may refuse to decorate for Christmas before Thanksgiving,

but when it comes to gifts, I plan early!

I so enjoy making things for the people I love,

but it can take up a lot of time.

Thus the early start! ;)

Here are some great handmade gift ideas I've spotted this year...

this sweet pom pom necklace

a pretty little sewing kit

chalkboard coasters {clever!}

monogrammed mugs

hair accessories for the little girls in your life

Are you making any Christmas gifts this year?

I'd love to hear about it!

linking up with Krystina!

happy Fall! {a leaf garland project}

2011-11-15T08:54:00.001-05:00

I know most places {stores & such} are already deep into Christmas...

but I refuse to put up Christmas decorations until after Thanksgiving.

All of the walls in our new home are pretty bare,

{eventually I'll get some pictures/art hung!}

so I decided to add some Fall!

This was a super easy project, although a little time-consuming.

I just used some pretty Autumn paper I had on hand, this leaf template, and some ribbon.

I cut out all the leaves, strung them on the ribbon, and hung it with some little Command hooks.

Then I added a few extra leaves around the garland to give it a more filled-in look.

Definitely a nice touch in our dining room!

What do you add to your home to make it feel like Fall?

monday finds me...

2011-11-14T08:30:00.001-05:00

{the coffee break fingerless mittens}

...sipping some very strong coffee.

...planning out some dinners for the week.

{can anyone say comfort food like macaroni & cheese? yum!}

...avoiding the sink full of dirty dishes for just a little while longer. ;)

...cutting out some pretty Fall leaves for a project, which I plan on sharing very soon!

....crocheting up some pretty things for some new blog friends. :)

...cleaning up after the weekend.

...enjoying another day God has given me.

What are you up to this Monday?

pumpkin spice & everything nice

2011-11-10T08:43:00.000-05:00

Lately I've been reminded of how much I looove

pumpkin spice.

In my coffee, as a candle, etc, etc.

Yesterday, I tried a new recipe.

pumpkin spice muffins

with cream cheese filling.

You should make some,

because they are really yummy.

You can find the recipe here.

{my first!} what i wore wednesday

2011-11-09T09:09:00.000-05:00

Hello!

I've been wanting to participate with What I Wore Wednesday

for quite awhile now, I just haven't been brave enough...

I finally decided that it didn't really matter if my pictures were stellar,

or my outfits were cute enough, etc, etc...

So here I am! :)

I don't have a picture for every day,

but I'm okay with that.

{last tuesday}

ruffled top :: from Kelly

jeans :: Walmart

rosettes :: Allora Handmade

necklace :: Lisa Leonard

{last thursday}

top :: Target

skirt :: Target

flats :: Crocs

hair pins :: beat road

{last friday, baking cookies for a friend's wedding}

top & jeans you can't really see :: Aeropostale & Walmart

adorable apron :: Lima Bean Designs

cookies :: yum!

{saturday, going to the wedding}

dress :: Kohl's

shoes :: Famous Footware?

beaded hair clips :: Heartspun by Wendy

{the handsome husband & a couple of sisters made it in, too!}

{tuesday, errands & a date with my man}

top :: Target

jeans :: Walmart

bag :: Target {Converse}

headband :: Fireflies & Cattails

necklace :: The Vintage Pearl

linking up with What I Wore Wednesday & Real Momma, Real Style.

some sentences

2011-11-08T09:45:00.001-05:00

Hello, Tuesday!

Today is the 8th, which means...

we've been married for a month! ;)

I can hardly believe it's been a month already,

and it's been wonderful.

I've been busily working, trying to get my "studio" {sewing, craft, etc.} space set up,

all this stuff somehow needs to organized & put away!

It could take me awhile... :)

I am definitely making these muffins this week;

they look amazing!

I got these baby pumpkins & gourds a couple weeks ago,

but sadly they all got rotten & moldy! :(

So, I'm working on another little project to add

some Fall color to our home.

Also, meet my new baby...

SO excited to have my own little sewing machine. :)

Well, that's about all that's in my brain right now...

I hope you all have a lovely, wonderful Tuesday!

our wedding {part 3}

2011-11-07T09:03:00.000-05:00

{part 1} & {part 2}

from the reception...

We did a very simple cake & punch {lemonade} reception,

and I liked it that way.

Everyone could wander around, talk to people, celebrate, etc.

There's more I could share, and I'll be putting together a post about the decorations,

details & DIYs in the next couple of weeks...there were so many little things that I loved!

Our wedding may not have been what everyone else does,

but it was pretty perfect for us. :)

our wedding {part 2}

2011-11-04T09:12:00.000-04:00

to see the first post about our wedding, click here.

I think the worst part of our wedding day was all the waiting around I had to do.

I was ready early {of course}, so I had to wait until Hayden was ready to take pictures.

After pictures, I had to wait about an hour until the ceremony.

Have I mentioned that I'm not the most patient person?

But finally, it was time...

Some special moments from the ceremony...

I could hardly believe it when our pastor announced us as husband & wife.

I'd been waiting for that moment for over 4 years...and now we were finally married!

Such a happy day. :)

I'll be sharing the rest of the wedding pictures soon!

What is your favorite memory about your wedding?

{the shop is open!}

2011-11-03T09:33:00.000-04:00

Petunia Blooms has been closed for almost a month now...

I was a little busy getting married & such. ;)

But, I am happy to announce that the shop is now open again!

I still have quite a few more lovelies that I need to get photographed & listed,

but right now there are some adorable headbands, hair clips & bobby pins available.

Seriously, these would be perfect as gifts...and Christmas is getting close!

shop now!

our wedding {part one}

2011-10-31T15:59:00.001-04:00

I'm so excited to share about our wedding today!

I have tons of pictures, but I won't bombard you with all of them at once...

so here's part one!

I'll be honest, planning our wedding was a lot of work and a lot of fun, and I'm glad it's over.

The day before the wedding, as we were decorating and preparing,

I had to answer so many questions, make so many little decisions, arrange things just so...

I just wanted to get married!

We chose to see each other and take pictures before the ceremony,

and I am SO glad we did.

He was super nervous, and I was pretty nervous myself...

I felt so much better about everything once I had spent some time with him.

And it was fantastic to get all the group shots done beforehand so our guests

didn't have to wait around forever at the reception. It made everything less stressful.

{this is one of my favorite shots!}

{some details}

my dress & jacket :: David's Bridal

pink shoes! :: Old Navy

necklace :: Allora Handmade

bridesmaid's skirts & flower pins :: made by me!

origami bouquets :: made by my very talented sister

sweaters :: JC Penney's

to be continued...

if you have any questions about any wedding details,

feel free to let me know!

coffee & cream muffins {recipe!}

2011-10-27T09:17:00.000-04:00

A friend gifted me this book several years ago,

and it's definitely a favorite of mine.

{I also have my eye on this one...}

So many delicious muffins,

and they're all pretty easy to make!

I just wanted to share a really delicious one...

{ coffee & cream muffins }

you'll need:

oil or melted butter for greasing {I always use paper baking cups}
2 tbsp instant coffee powder
2 tbsp boiling water
2 cups all purpose flour
1 tbsp baking powder
1/8 tsp salt
heaping 1/2 cup brown sugar, firmly packed
2 large eggs
scant 1 cup heavy cream
6 tbsp sunflower oil or melted, cooled butter

{one} Preheat your oven to 450*. Grease your muffin pan or use paper liners. Combine the coffee powder & boiling water, stir until dissolved. Let cool.

{two} Sift together the flour, baking powder & salt into a large bowl. Stir in brown sugar.

{three} Lightly beat the eggs {separate bowl}, then beat in cream, oil, and dissolved coffee. Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and pour in liquid ingredients. Stir gently until just combined; do not overmix!

{four} Spoon batter into prepared muffin pan. Bake about 20 minutes, until well risen & firm to the touch.

{five} Let the muffins cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to wire rack to cool completely.

{six} Top each muffin with some whipped cream, dust on some cocoa powder, and add a chocolate-covered coffee bean. Yum!

Enjoy!

linking up with Gussy's Inspiration Workshop today. :)

{things I'm loving...}

2011-10-26T09:12:00.002-04:00

Just a few things I'm loving these days...

...I love being married to this guy.

He's awesome, and awfully cute. ;)

...homemade smoothies.

We've made a lot of these in our 2 1/2 weeks of marriage.

...inspired by Caroline,

a sweet scarf with a cute flower!

...if you've never listened to this song, you should.

It's amazingly beautiful, and my current favorite.

{Dell'Amore Non Si Sa, Hayley Westenra & Andrea Bocelli}

...it's been so long since I've worked on a crocheting project.

I started this one yesterday, and I definitely missed crocheting!

...and finally, I love coffee.

I love pumpkin spice creamer.

And that's my new favorite mug. :)

What are you loving today?

guess who's back?!

2011-10-24T08:50:00.002-04:00

I'm back!!

It's weird to think that I haven't blogged for 2 weeks...

it was a lovely & much needed break, though.

And we're married!

{this picture embodies happiness. i love it.}

I've been loving married life.

Everything is so much better with my man by my side.

I have so much to share,

but bear with me - still sorting through wedding pictures!

I hope you all have had a wonderful couple of weeks.

Thanks to all of my guest bloggers & the sweet comments that were left;

I appreciate all of you so much. :)

Happy Monday...

chocolate brown {a guest post from kate.}

2011-10-21T08:00:00.000-04:00

Hello, everyone!
While I'm off enjoying newly-married life, I've asked a few of my blog friends to share with you.
I hope you enjoy their posts, and please be sure to leave some comment love! :)

*****

Hello there friends! I'm Kate from Be merry, Kate and I'm so happy to guestpost for Jacky while she is off celebrating her wedding and enjoying her honeymoon.Jacky has been such a good blog friend and I'm so happy for her as she enters thisnew phase of her life! In honor of her wedding, I decided to share a little {color love}based off of my own wedding.

If you know Jacky at all, you know that the colors brown, green and orange arevery far from some of her favorites {and understandably so!} Our wedding was onthe Saturday before Thanksgiving, so I just couldn't resist the fall palate. I think itworked too - doesn't everyone look great?!? {Okay, I'm a little biased!} So, here youhave it, a color love dedicated to the color that stole the show at our wedding...

{chocolate brown}

I love this curtain

I'm also a big fan of chocolate brown Toms.

brown walls frighten me, but this room looks perfect

this chocolate brown Modcloth dress is perfect for fall

and the best part of chocolate brown is...

chocolate cake!{yes I had a chocolate cake on my wedding day, why not?!?}

Thank you again to Jacky for letting me stop by for a visit! I hope you all enjoyed alittle taste of one of my favorite colors as well as a bit from my wedding day. Do stop by and say hello sometime!

{don't worry}

2011-10-19T08:00:00.000-04:00

pinned here

such a great reminder...worrying won't get you anywhere!

get organized {a guest post from gussy.}

2011-10-17T08:00:00.000-04:00

For weeks now {probably even months},

I've been writing little notes here & there with ideas, projects, tips, goals and dreams for me and the biz. More recently I decided it's time to stop creating lists and to-do's that scatter a half dozen journals and sticky notes >> I need them to be in one place. My first idea was to search Etsy for a shop that could make me a cute 3-ring binder to serve as my Gussy Folder -- I need to be able to re-arrange the pages so a bound book just wouldn't work. Sadly, I couldn't find what I was looking for, but hooray! I decided to make my Gussy Folder myself.I found this cute binder at Target (can also be bought online at www.russellandhazel.com {super cute biz name, by the way}) along with hole-punched pages & divider folders. Yippeeeee :]Three categories I'm constantly using:* goals* blog ideas* to-doThese three are the top most important categories for my folder. Having goals is SO, SO important -- it's the only way I was able to quit my day job back in May. Plus, goals are really great ways to grow my business and add motivation to my day. Another category that keeps my blog running {the second biz I have} is a blog ideas list. Usually in the morning is when I come up with the best post/blog ideas, and writing them down is a super easy way for me to come up with a topic/remember ideas. The last category in my Gussy Folder is a to-do list. Having this list in a 3-ring binder lets me add pages to my to-do list without messing up the order of everything else in my book.Each divider page also has a pocket --Lined paper inserts, perfect :]My Gussy Folder was super fun to make and it cost me less than $20 to create [binder was $7.69, paper was $4.84 and divider folders were $5.17]. On each divider page, I wrote the name of the category on a small piece of fabric {pulled from my scrap bin}. I then used the zig-zag stitch to sew the smaller piece to a bigger piece of fabric. I finished by sewing the fabric directly onto the paper using a top stitch. These folders are card stock-weight so it will hold the stitch well ♥.
One thing that will be super great about this Gussy Folder is I can look back at the goals/topics/to-do's I accomplished and be proud of myself. When I'm having a downer day I like to take a minute and focus on the praises in my life. Then I pray for some help *wink*Materials used --* 3-ring binder* divider pages* lined paper {graph would be cute, too}* thread* fabric* fabric marker* embellishments to decorate the front of your binder {stickers, photos, marker, fabric, glitter glue, etc.}

Share with us -- do you have a special book to help you organize your business?If so, did you buy it or make it?

inspiring balloons {a guest post from mandie.}

2011-10-14T08:00:00.000-04:00

Hello, everyone!
While I'm off enjoying newly-married life, I've asked a few of my blog friends to share with you.
I hope you enjoy their posts, and please be sure to leave some comment love! :)

*****

Hi! I'm Mandie from moxiemandie (blog - shop) and I wanted to share a little something while Jacky is busy getting married and honeymooning with her guy. I moved to Albuquerque, NM over 5 years ago to live with my handsome husband, and in doing so, was introduced to a very cool part of the culture here- hot air balloons. Now, I realize that more than likely, you know what a hot air balloon is regardless of where you live, but here in Albuquerque, ballooning is big because every year in October, our city hosts the International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta, and it's a sort of magical 9 days.

There are more car accidents during the week of balloon fiesta due to people paying more attention to the pretty baubles bobbing in the air than the roads they're driving on.

Source: etsy.com via Mandie on Pinterest

The balloon fiesta probably hosts more photographers, professional AND amateur, than any other event, and has been called the most photographed event in the world. To say that I have a blast with my iPhone (using my fave photo apps, instagram and hipstamatic) is an understatement.

Source: etsy.com via Mandie on Pinterest

So, that's the little something I wanted to share about our city. It's so fun to be a (teensy) part of something that can be so dreamy & inspiring.Thanks for having me Jacky. I hope that you and your mister are having a blast adjusting to married life! Best of wishes to you my friend.

{think about such things}

2011-10-12T08:00:00.000-04:00

found here

plum {a guest post from caroline.}

2011-10-10T08:00:00.000-04:00

Hello, everyone!
While I'm off enjoying newly-married life, I've asked a few of my blog friends to share with you.
I hope you enjoy their posts, and please be sure to leave some comment love! :)

*****

Hi lovies. I'm Caroline & I blog over at Good Times Never Seem Sew Good. Come visit me & you'll get to read about my life as a newlywed, my crafty projects, my favorite recipes, and my attempt at being fashionable~ I'd love for you to come stop by!

While Jacky is starting her new life with her man, she asked me to guest post on her little bliggity blog. Of course I obliged :) I wanna share with you guys one of my favorite colors for Fall this season: PLUM. Oh yes. I'm am pretty much obsessed with this color.

Pinterest.

here are a few of my plum finds for you~

1. miss margaret from Sunshine & Carousels.

2. ruthanne foldover from Peggy Ann Design.

3. zephyr maxi from Anthropologie

4. a fabulous fashion find from side by side blog on Pinterest.

5. wedding garter from Rosebud Lips.

I hope you enjoy :)

today...

2011-10-08T08:00:00.000-04:00

...I'm marrying my best friend. The love of my life. My favorite person ever.

I couldn't be more excited.

{wedding week!}

2011-10-03T08:20:00.000-04:00

can you believe it's wedding week already?!

In 5 days, I get to marry my favorite person.

I couldn't be more excited. :)

I won't be around much on the blog this week

{I'm sure you all will understand},

but you can email me if you'd like to chat.

And I've got some lovely guest posts

all ready to go for the next couple weeks.

Just pray that I keep my sanity in all of this.

My goal is to relax & enjoy it all. :)

happy wedding week!

{little things}

2011-09-30T08:00:00.000-04:00

I'm not a photographer by any means,

but I love captured memories.

Pictures to look back on & think "Oh, remember when...?"

So, here are some of the little things I captured this week...

{start at top left corner & go clockwise}

--> music practice. lovely shot of the keyboard.

lots of fond memories there.

--> that was actually my last music practice for awhile

{because of getting married & moving & such},

and the rest of the team threw me a little party,

complete with cupcakes!

--> pumpkin spice latte. YUM.

--> I Love Lucy. I really do. :)

--> my view. so pretty.

--> my handsome fiance.

putting together ceiling fans for our new home. :)

--> happy together!

--> playing rummy with my family

--> heading out for a walk, even though it's hot.

--> reading the bible. sipping coffee. a great bible study to work on.

--> one of my embroidery projects, inspired by a Fred Astaire movie.

--> he makes my heart smile. :)

...and another little peek at our new place:

It's starting to feel more like home. :)

Happy weekending, lovelies!

things to make & do

2011-09-28T08:49:00.001-04:00

Good morning, lovelies!

As always, I have about a million and one projects I'd love to be working on...

but I'm making myself wait until after the wedding.

It's only 10 days away, and I don't really have time to start something new.

Until then, my Pinterest boards keep growing...

cute & simple bow tie top

I want to make this with a different phrase...

now I just have to think of a good one!

these fabric trays are just begging to be made

I have the perfect scraps to use for these gift tags!

I just love the versatility of these clip frames

What projects have you been working on?

If you're feeling inspired, check out my things to make & do

and sewing boards for more inspiration. :)

{mondays require coffee}

2011-09-26T08:30:00.003-04:00

I found this print while browsing Etsy recently,

and I just love it!

Mondays {and every morning!} always require coffee

to wake me up & get me going. It's part of my morning routine. :)

How about you? What is an essential start to your day?

{instagram.}

2011-09-23T08:00:00.000-04:00

There are a lot of things I love about my iPhone.

One of the apps I was most excited to try out was Instagram.

I am not an amazing photographer, but it's been so fun to snap a quick photo,

choose a filter, and done!

And I find myself taking pictures of little moments throughout the day,

which I wouldn't necessarily do with my regular camera.

So, I thought I'd share some pieces of my life today...

{left} Lovelies I've made for the craft fair. I just hope it will sell!

{right} My life is slowly being packed away in boxes & moved to our new house.

There are about 5 boxes of books in the middle of my room right now. ;)

I thrive on lists.

There's something about writing down goals

and then checking them off when I complete them...

{this was a cleaning list; my sister & I spent most of the day Wednesday

at my new place cleaning/organizing/putting away}

coffee + a good book = happiness :)

A couple of cute wedding projects.

I can't wait to see how it all comes together!

This has been my view every Thursday night for several years.

{I play on our church's music team}

Just a glimpse at my life through photos.

Thanks for joining me! :)

{recipe} cheesy chicken lasagna

2011-09-21T08:47:00.002-04:00

I really do enjoy cooking.

I seldom get to try new recipes {my dad can't have any kind of dairy,

which really limits the options}, but I was able to make a recipe last week

that I found while browsing Pinterest.

I thought I'd share; maybe you'll want to try something new!

cheesy chicken lasagna

{the recipe can be found here; I'd encourage you to

read her thoughts on it before you start cooking.}

2 cans (12 oz) evaporated milk (not fat-free)

1 (1 oz) pkg. dry Ranch dressing mix

3 C. cubed, cooked, chicken

1/8 tsp pepper

1 (16oz) lasagna noodles, cooked (she recommends reducing it to 8 oz to 12 oz)

1 1/2 to 2 C cheddar cheese, grated

1 1/2 to 2 C mozzarella cheese, grated

Cook the chicken and noodles first at the same time. Once noodles are done–rinse in cold water and set aside (it keeps them from sticking together). Combine evaporated milk (don’t use fat-free version) and Ranch dressing in a 3 quart heavy saucepan. Heat over low heat, stirring frequently until dry ingredients are dissolved. Stir in chicken and pepper. Simmer, uncovered, 25 minutes (don’t do any less), stirring frequently. {keep the heat low - I got impatient & turned it up and the mixture separated} Layer half of lasagna noodles, poultry sauce, and cheese in well-buttered 9×13 pan. Repeat layers again. Bake at 350 for 35-40 minutes or until hot and bubbly. Let rest 10 minutes before serving.

Yum! ;)

Happy cooking!

linking up with Krystina...

shop info + a discount for you!

2011-09-20T08:43:00.000-04:00

Hello, lovelies!

Just so you know, my little shop will be

going into vacation mode on October 1st.

I'll be busy with last minute wedding preparations,

and my goal is to enjoy this whole wedding experience. ;)

The craft fair I'm participating in is 2 weeks after the wedding,

so the shop won't re-open until sometime after that.

SO, if you'd like to get something lovely for yourself or as a gift,

make sure you order before October 1st!

And if you'd like a little extra incentive, use the code

FORYOU10

for 10% off your order.

Happy shopping!

{handmade love} vintage green limited

2011-09-19T08:53:00.000-04:00

I just love this shop, vintage green limited.

I'm not sure how I found it {probably through another blog},

but I fell in love with the sweet birdies Jenn makes...

Have I mentioned that I really love birds? :)

She also make adorable ring bearer pillows, bunting,

and wedding sets.

And, these adorable birds will be making an appearance at my own wedding!

These were a custom order with my own fabric,

and Jenn was fabulous to work with!

I would definitely recommend her work. :)

vintage green limited.

{shop} {facebook}

*****

I'm sharing a shop that I really love,

for no reason other than the fact that I like it!

Jenn doesn't know I'm featuring her, I'm not being paid,

my own opinions, etc, etc.

{color love} raspberry :: a guest post!

2011-09-16T08:22:00.000-04:00

Today we have Nay sharing some color inspiration...

and this happens to be one of my favorite colors, too!

Be sure to leave her some love today. :)

*****

~ Raspberry Loveliness ~

Hi there! I'm Nay from "Cover to Cover...and Everything in Between!"

and I am *loving* raspberry-colored everything these days :)

I think I want it to be my accent color for Autumn this year - can't wait until it finally starts here in California!

just add chocolate please!

...and oh to sit and read here on a lazy day!

I wanna wrap myself in this one!

can we drive to Hollywood Blvd. in this please?

if only my little girl were that little again!

Thanks so much Jacky for having me on your lovely bloggy!

xoxo

~ Nay ~

this is home

2011-09-14T08:37:00.000-04:00

{free printable from here}

a little sneak peek of our new home...

I can't wait to start setting up house here!

This is the first time I've had the opportunity to

set up/organize things exactly the way I want them,

and it's so exciting.

I've told the fiance' how excited I am no less than 100 times already. ;)

linking up with Krystina today...

{diy ideas} washi tape!

2011-09-12T08:42:00.000-04:00

I've seen washi tape popping up all over the place lately!

I'm probably the last to know {that's usually me when it comes to trends...},

but I think there are so many cute patterns & designs

And it's so versatile!

So, I just wanted to share some fun projects

I've found that you can do with washi tape.

Like...

these sweet little washi flowers

makeover a plain notebook

cute clothespin magnets

more washi magnets

easy can makeover

and a favorite of mine, washi bunting.

I'm pretty certain that I need to get some of this tape SOON so I can start creating!

I've seen cute washi tape here & here...

If you have a washi tape source, do share!

Happy Monday, everyone!

{color love} caramel

2011-09-09T08:36:00.000-04:00

Beside the fact that it's my favorite frappucino flavor,

this color makes me think of Fall...

caramel apples fine art photograph

leather cuff

crystal earrings

kitten heels

chocolate sea salt caramel tarts...yum!

What is your favorite color for Fall?

one month!

2011-09-08T09:00:00.000-04:00

One month. Can you believe it?!

Back in January, when we got engaged,

October seemed ages away.

The closer we get, the faster it comes.

And I couldn't be more excited! ;)

So what have I been up to lately?

Obviously, lots of projects for the wedding...

{from top left to bottom right}

{1} I have at least 4 lists going right now.

Things are getting done, and my lists keep shrinking!

{2 & 3} I'm making my own veil, and the DIY Bride magazine

has an easy set of instructions to follow.

(I ordered the netting on Etsy.)

{4} This is one of my favorite projects,

these sweet little birdhouses. :)

{5 & 6} I looove this fabric.

When you see pictures of our wedding,

that fabric will be in lots of places. :)

Including 24+ yards of pennant bunting!

So, there's a little sneak peek at a few of the details.

I can't wait to see it all put together!

P.S. We also found a place to live!

Papers are signed, and we get the keys on Monday!!

I'll be sharing more about our new home soon...

{WILW} home inspiration

2011-09-07T08:56:00.002-04:00

I've been browsing the internet for some inspiration for our new home.

It's lovely & wonderful, but oh so overwhelming at times!

I want our living room to be cozy & pretty, but not too girly {for the sweetheart's sake ;)}.

Here's a few pillows that have been inspiring me lately...

1. this brown chevron pillow from moxie mandie.

2. this floral pillow

3. this pillow is sold already,

but I love it so...

4. this pillow is a little different, but it's kinda fun!

Where do you find the best inspiration for your home?

{hello, tuesday}

2011-09-06T08:30:00.003-04:00

source

Hello, Tuesday!

I hope you all had a lovely long weekend,

full of rest & relaxation.

Just some {totally random} thoughts for this morning...

... I sip my coffee out of my favorite yellow mug

almost every morning.

Yellow just makes me happy. :)

... I am easily overwhelmed when presented

with a lot of options.

Anyone else like that?

... The Sweetheart is exactly 4 months and 4 days

older than me. In case you wanted to know. ;)

... I have a million projects that I'd love to do

just for fun, but I think they'll have to wait

until after the wedding. Too much to do!

... My baby sister & I love to listen to

Disney music on Pandora.

And sing along, of course. :)

... I have a busy day ahead of me,

so I'd better get going.

Hope you all have a lovely day!

{color love} color & you

2011-09-02T08:36:00.001-04:00

Go ahead, choose a color!

Whichever catches your eye first, that makes you go "ooh, I love that one!"

What is that color supposed to say about you?

{don't worry, this is just for fun...}

{pinned here}

I was immediately drawn to blossom & strawberry.

"You are able to gently say the things that your friends need to hear..."

"You are very lucky with opportunities appearing like magic..."

Okay, so maybe not.

But I still think it's fun. ;)

Which color caught your eye?

{What I Love Wednesday, #15}

2011-08-31T08:41:00.000-04:00

Just some things I'm loving this week...

a great list of weekly planners, menu planners,

and cleaning checklists.

this girl loves a good list. :)

this yarn bowl.

perfect for my crochet projects!

this idea for pennant bunting stamps.

so cute!

source

and, I can't help but include my new phone.

it is quite fascinating. ;)

What are you loving today?

an update

2011-08-30T08:56:00.000-04:00

{a small peek at all the prep work}

I've mentioned here & here that I'm supposed to

have a table at a craft fair in October {2 weeks after we get married!},

and that my goal was to finish all of my "inventory" prep by September 1st.

Well, it was a lot of work.

A LOT of work.

But, I got it done, and I got it done early!

I've been working like crazy

cutting, sewing, gluing, attaching, finishing, etc, etc, etc.

It is so nice to have it all done.

Now I can focus on all of the wedding projects that I still need to finish,

and not have to worry about prepping for the craft fair at the same time.

Whew.

The good news for you?

Whatever doesn't sell at the craft fair will be listed in the shop. ;)

*****

I noticed that the my little blog now has 402 followers!

I just wanted to say a big thank you to all of you, new & old.

I so appreciate each and every one of you!

Happy Tuesday!

Hope your day is lovely...

happy birthday.

2011-08-29T08:31:00.000-04:00

This guy means everything to me,

and today is his birthday.

Babe, I love you so much.

I hope this birthday is an amazing one!

{even if I get more excited about your birthday than you do...}

Also? He spoils me.

He surprised me with my very own iPhone 4 yesterday!!

I've reassured him that that is not the reason I love him,

but it is pretty fantastic. ;)

Happy birthday!

6 weeks.

2011-08-27T08:00:00.002-04:00

6 weeks from today, I'll be marrying my best friend. I couldn't be more excited. :)

but it's crazy how quickly time goes by...

{color love} my favorites

2011-08-26T08:45:00.000-04:00

It's no secret that I looove color.

It's beautiful & inspiring.

BUT, my least favorite question is "So, what's your favorite color?"

Purely because I never know what to say!

So, here's my top four favorite colors....

{pinned here}

Pink has been a favorite of mine for years.

It's feminine, soft & lovely.

{source}

Natalie inspired my love of yellow!

It's bright & happy & cheerful.

{source}

I love the depth of teal.

To me, it's gorgeous & slightly mysterious.

{source}

This is another deep & lovely color, plum.

Definitely a favorite, especially in the fall and winter.

Those are my top favorite colors,

although not my only favorite colors. ;)

I hope they inspire you a little today!

{WILW} clever ideas

2011-08-24T08:41:00.000-04:00

I love when I stumble across an idea and think, "Wow, that a really neat way to do that!"

Most of these are then pinned to my {clever ideas} board so I'll actually remember to use them. ;)

Here are a few of my favorites...

{1} use a shower cap to wrap shoes so your clothes stay clean.

{2} use a paper clip dispenser as a bobby pin holder.

{3} a great way to organize embroidery floss.

{4} use a gift box as a cupcake carrier.

{5} using jars as organizers (several fun ideas here!).

{6} love this idea to store bracelets - simple & easy!

Do you have some clever ideas to share? Please do!

I'd love to hear/see them. :)

linking up with Krystina...

{feeling blessed}

2011-08-22T08:49:00.000-04:00

I'm definitely feeling blessed after this weekend...

my bridal shower was on Saturday morning,

and it was just wonderful.

{my bride-to-be "costume", put together by my sister;

all the essentials for cooking/baking in one easy place! *wink*}

We had a great turn-out {so thankful for all the ladies who came!},

lots of yummy food, fun games, and all the other fun shower "stuff".

Unfortunately, a lot of the pictures on my camera turned out really blurry,

so I'll have to track down some more pictures I can share.

We received a lot of the things we need for our new home,

and I couldn't be more excited about setting up our new place. :)

Now we just have to find that place....

How was your weekend? Hope it was lovely!

{color love} dreaming of fall

2011-08-19T08:40:00.000-04:00

I love Fall.

Here in Florida, the weather doesn't get cooler right away,

but it's still my favorite season.

I think one of my favorite things about Fall is the colors.

Color is always an inspiration to me, but I definitely gravitate toward the Fall shades...

...so I was excited to see these Pantone Fall 2011 colors!

What are your favorites?

I'm loving honeysuckle, phlox, deep teal & quarry. :)

Happy Friday, all!

{WILW} birds of a feather

2011-08-17T08:34:00.000-04:00

1. tiny chickadee necklace

2. songbird on flower bag

3. lovebirds from vintage green limited

4. hand-stamped muslin ribbon

5. personalized lovebirds poster

What are you loving today?

me {A to Z}

2011-08-15T08:54:00.000-04:00

I saw this on Casey's blog last week, and I just had to share.

I always love learning random facts about people! :)

{a} age :: 20

{b} bed size :: currently, twin. when we get married, queen.

{c} chore you hate :: scrubbing pots & pans

{d} dogs :: the sweetest black lab ever

{e} essential start to your day :: coffee!

{f} favorite color :: a lot! especially pink, grey, yellow, teal & plum.

{g} gold or silver :: silver

{h} height :: 5'4"

{i} instruments you play :: piano {been playing for 10+ years}, a little guitar

{j} job title :: ummm...handmade shop owner, babysitter, house-cleaner extraordinaire, wife-to-be

{k} kids :: not yet!

{l} live :: the Sunshine State

{m} maiden name :: same as my last name for now. :)

{n} nicknames :: I'm not a fan of nicknames...Jacky if you must have one.

{o} overnight hospital stays :: never. and the prospect scares me!

{p} pet peeve :: unnecessary noise, misspelled words

{q} quote :: "if you want to be happy, BE." {no idea who said it, I heard it from Gussy} &

"For I know the plans I have for you, declares the LORD, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope." {Jeremiah 29:11}

{r} righty or lefty :: right

{s} siblings :: four younger sisters

{t} time you wake up :: my first alarm goes off at 7:30, and then I get up at 7:50 {I like to push snooze...}

{u} university attended :: none

{v} vegetables you dislike: I'm not the biggest fan of veggies...I especially dislike broccoli.

{w} what makes you run late :: my mom. the fiance'. last minute projects. {but I hate being late...}

{x} x-rays you’ve had :: I've fractured my arm & my leg {at separate times}

{y} yummy food :: fettucine alfredo, chicken & dumplings, almost anything with chicken

{z} zoo animal favorite :: not really any...I like penguins, but I'm not sure if that's a zoo animal.

*****

Hope your Monday is a lovely one!

{color love} grape

2011-08-12T08:34:00.000-04:00

I think this is just a lovely color...

{ grape }

{found}

{pinned - not sure of original source}

{found}

{WILW} dress up your hair

2011-08-10T08:55:00.000-04:00

I've got headbands on the brain this week!

I'm participating in the Pink Lemonade headband swap,

so I've been working on a couple of headbands for my partner, Ally. :)

I just love dressing up my hair with pretty things,

so here's a few of my favorite handmade headbands I've found:

1. carnation felt headband from Ordinary Mommy

2. tess antique purple headband from paisleelane

3. Come & Ruffle headband in Mustard from Come & Knock

4. Kerigan headband from Elizabeth St.

5. Aunt Helen headband from Little Penelope Lane

6. claire yellow ruffled poppy headband from Rouge & Whimsy

If you have a favorite shop that sells lovely headbands, I'd love to hear about it! :)

for you...

2011-08-09T09:08:00.000-04:00

Just wanted to let you all know...

Right now there's a giveaway on Time of Your Life;

You could win your choice of bloom from my shop!

I'd love it if you stopped by & entered...good luck!