HAPPINESS IS...

Healing To Your Spirit

 

My mother and I are taking a Reiki Level I and II certification course this weekend. I am beyond excited. I did what I thought was reiki on Bailey when she was alive, but I was clueless back then. Ever since, I've been fascinated with this beautiful ancient healing art. I hope to practice Reiki mostly on myself, any friends or family who are interested, and of course, animals who may roam my way. Next week, if you're curious, I'll share with you our class experience.

Have a peaceful weekend, loves. Please enjoy the links...

Home sweet school bus home.

10 ways to get over blogger's block. 

A lovely round-up of wooden toys.

Best idea: hire a photographer for your bachelorette.

Wishing I was in NY for this children's book exhibit.

Gorgeous rustic table inspiration.

Make an enchanted bottle brush forest.

Spicy chocolate candied pecans.

Trim the tree with homemade garlands.

3 great classic book cover redesigns.

And some posts of mine you may have missed...

• Another Winter Solstice
• Peppermint Hot Cocoa Ornaments
• Ice Skating

 

{Original image via Tempuros}

To Quit Talking

Brrr, it's so chilly outside. For the weekend I'm planning to hunker down, wrap myself up in a blanket by the fire, and master my calligraphy lessons. It's hard for me to get anything creative done on weekdays, so I've devoted the next two days to learning, practicing and DOING. I've made some progress, but I've got a ways to go before I feel comfortable showing you my work!

Enjoy yourselves and my dears. I hope you get out there and DO. Here are your weekend links...

My new favorite color combo: white and wood. 

31 healthy high protein snacks.

A cute little feather poof brooch.

It's scientifically official: animals have conscious awareness! (duh)

Make your own heart patch tights.

Add a bit of orange to your cranberry sauce.

A fall table setting with lovely hanging leaves.

Beautiful marble wood flooring.

A fun way to drink your daily tea. 

Craft a wreath out of rosemary.

And some posts of mine you may have missed...

• AC The Cat
• An Orange Bathroom
• Anonymous Holidays 

 

A Living Forest

 

Have a melodic weekend, my loves. Here are your links... 

 

6 DIY sugar lip scrubs.

A sweet wedding reading for introverts.

Creative pie crust designs.

A fabulous Thanksgiving menu for my vegan friends.

How to make a faux stacked wood fireplace screen.

Roasted zuchinni soup with stilton.

An amazing stop motion video with tissue paper animals.

I wish this Seattle attic apartment really existed.

Make your home smell nice for the holidays with oranges and cloves.

A turkey-shaped cheese tray (similar to my cheese ball turkey!)

 

And some posts of mine you may have missed... 

• The Fog
• Button Hats
• Forest Bathing 

 

{Original image via Miaoin}

Great People

Don't you love when you come across a quote that mirrors your current thoughts? Today is one of those days. I have all these nagging ideas about where I want this blog to go, where I want to take my career, and which path in life I should follow. I've been frozen for far too long, never feeling prepared enough to move forward, never feeling ready to take a leap. So why not do things now instead of waiting for tomorrow? Why not leap and expect a net? If a net doesn't appear, tumbles and scraps make for excellent stories. I hope you're inspired by this as much as I am. Let's be great people together.

Have a productive weekend! Here are a few entertaining links...

Thoughts on living in the moment.

Such a fun music video! In bed.

Dream dress for my next formal event.

What's your favorite reading position?

Flower girl outfits for tomboys.

DIY wax paper invitations.

Kate Moss' first ever photoshoot.

Incredible edible sculptures.

How to fake a fuller ponytail.

Fall decor: when in doubt, spray it gold. 

 

And some posts of mine you may have missed...

• DIY Flying People Balloon Weights
• Wood Burned Wildlife 
• Real Pin-Up Girls

 

{Pre-edited image by CWThornbrugh}

Whatever You Decide

Enjoy the weekend, loves. Do something happy! Here are your links...

How to make apple candle tea lights.

A pretty way to wrap and gift money.

I want to live in a converted public library.

Lamps made from vintage cameras.

The most beautiful pumpkin bisque.

A DIY bachelorette party in a box.

What if you just went for it?

Toasted quinoa chocolate bars, wha?

A pie-slice shaped house that spite built.

Have you seen the new online foodie mag, Hummm?

And some posts of mine you may have missed...

• Tiebreakers
• Clothesline Fun
• U:DON - The Best Noodle Shop In Seattle

{Pre-edited image via Red Coco}

Octobers

Me too, Anne. Me too. I hope you have a Octobery weekend doing Octobery things. I'll be taking it easy, resting up, taking a walk in the park, doing a little cleaning, a little baking, and DIY-ing a vital prop for my H'ween costume. How about you? This time of year always feels so fleeting to me. For those of you in cooler climates, get out and enjoy this beauty if you can.

Here are your weekend links...

8 fashion essentials for fall.

A great list of autumn activities.

I'm thinking about baking ginger cookies.

How to have fun with bobby (and his pins).

What do you think of the Stella McCartney jewel bag?

Turn your photos into a wallet.

The trailer for the new Wes Anderson film.

This season's IT hat. 

Love this DIY branch coat rack.

A sweet idea for a double date.

 

And some posts of mine you may have missed...

• How To Tie A Head Scarf
• An Off-The-Grid Writer's Retreat
• DIY - Bouquets of Autumn Leaves 

{Pre-edited image by Renato Tano}

An Overnight Adventure

Happy Friday! We're driving upstate for the Port Townsend Film Festival, hoping to catch a few indie flicks and stroll along the historic Victorian waterfront. I'll share our little overnight adventure next week! Have a fun weekend, friends. Here a few links for your amusement...

The most comforting carrot soup.

A whimsical mossy tablescape.

For those of us who couldn't attend fashion week.

Would you ever paint your piano?

Awesome wood grain shelf accents.

My absolute favorite Instagram food artist.

3 DIY lip balms: coconut rose, hemp honey, & chocolate mint.

The cutest dinosaur ring holder.

Darling H'ween costumes for les bebes.

Is this genius design or what?

 

And some posts of mine you may have missed...

• A Floating Cinema
• Deep Thoughts By Pooh & Friends
• Feline Noir

 

{Pre-edited image by Thomas Hanks}

A Celebration of Life

Tomorrow, my extended family on my mother's side are flying in from all over the country for my grandparents' joint memorial service, or rather a joyful celebration of their lives. We'll be gathering together on a chartered boat to scatter their ashes into the Puget Sound, then we'll tell stories and sing their favorite songs around the bonfire.

What are your plans for the weekend, loves? I hope you have a memorable one, full of moments that take your breath away. Enjoy the links...

30 ideas to get you in the mood for fall. Then 20 more!

Do you like grooms in colored suits?

DIY book page wallpaper.

Honey parmesan roasted brussels sprouts.

Should you turn your passion into a job?

10 awesome online shops.

5 homemade bread recipes for autumn.

What classic kids' books are really about.

The marriage adjustment period.

A lovely paper-cut calligraphy cake topper.

 

And some posts of mine you may have missed...

• A Virtual Letterpress
• Plants From Another Galaxy
• CatAtelier

 

{Pre-edited image by André Hofmeister}

The Perfect Imperfect Love

Bob Marley will always remind me of Hal. And this quote will always remind me of our relationship. I love the message, don't you?

This weekend marks our 1-year wedding anniversary. My goodness, how the days fly by. Since we're celebrating later in the month with our coastal road trip, we have nothing big planned. Maybe a nice dinner out with some live jazz. On Monday, I'll be sharing with you our official wedding video by Son of Sharkpig! Stay tuned friends. It's a goodie.

Have the loveliest of weekends. And please enjoy the links...

 

How to make a rug with a paperclip.

Yay, it's time for fall boots.

A cute and clever way to hide the ugly remote.

I've gotta try this bitchin' sauce.

An illustrated bucket list is an excellent idea.

Turn a men's dress shirt into a girly apron.

Have you ever tried tunisian tea?

An office/studio of my dreams!

A sweet little set of felt pumpkins.

How to style a hair bow.

 

And some posts of mine you may have missed...

• Lovely Ladies
• Circles of Life
• Why I Love Him - Reason #98

 

{Pre-edited image by Flumina}

Being With Those I Love

I've had a rather rough week, but I thank my lucky stars for Fridays and Walt Whitman. His poem, I Sing the Body Electric, puts things in perspective...

I have perceiv’d that to be with those I like is enough,
To stop in company with the rest at evening is enough,
To be surrounded by the beautiful, curious, breathing, laughing flesh is enough,
To pass among them or touch any one, or rest my arm ever so lightly round his or her neck for a moment, what is this then?
I do not ask any more delight, I swim in it as in a sea.

I've read that verse about 20 times while writing this post and it gives me shivers every time. This weekend, I get to spend time with my own beautiful, curious, breathing, laughing flesh. I get to watch my girl Mel sing with Taylor Swift on stage and hang with her after the show. Then my family and I are planning to play a round or two of golf for my dad's birthday on Labor Day.

Have a beautiful 3-day weekend surrounded by those you love. I'll see you again on Tuesday! Until then, here are a few fun links...

Camera essentials for bloggers.

A glam gold leaf desk makeover.

Turn frappuccino bottles into milk bottles.

Date night idea: beach party for two.

How to manage all your social media.

A DIY geometric mobile.

The cutest rainy day lunch for kids.

Oh if this island cabin were mine.

Brides, spice up your photobooth with slo-mo!

A simple pleasure: water with rosemary.

And some posts of mine you may have missed...

• Making Salt
• Oscar The Hospice Cat
• A Messy Engagement

 

{Image via Grown-Up Shoes}

Leaps of Faith

I've taken many leaps of faith in my life. One off a bridge to nowhere with a bungee cord attached to my ankles and one out of a perfectly good airplane with a parachute strapped to my back. These experiences, coupled with the fearlessness of youth, gave me courage to leap in life and love, most of which I belly flopped. But out of all the unsightly descents, there were still a few swan dives with minimal splash.

I've been trying to remind myself of this as I scout out a new path for myself. There have been a couple of crazy ideas brewing in my head as of late. One in particular I've been plotting or years, afraid to take a chance. This weekend, I plan to take action. And then maybe one day, I'll have the nerve to tell you all about it!

Do you have any risky aspirations you'd like to pursue, but you're worried about the outcome? Have a courageous weekend, my friends. Here are your links...

An enviable home studio space.

40 innovative grilled cheese sandwiches.

This is how you bring orange into the dining room.

I would have turned this indoor pool into a sunken conversation pit.

An interactive haunted children's museum in Tokyo.

Ever wondered how to make carrot noodles?

This is how my husband learned to knit.

Fun online font flashcards.

Make a swing out of a skateboard deck.

Orange Is The New Black's prison recipes!

 

And some posts of mine you may have missed...

• Watercolor Woodlands
• Peanut Butter Dynamite
• The End Of The Meal

{Pre-edited image via Thoughts By Natalie}

 

We Are Shaped By Our Thoughts

Have a mindful weekend, my loves. Full of joyful thoughts to shape your days. Here are a few happy links to help...

Discover the artists of Instagram. 

A map of Manhattan using only handwritten directions.

How to make the ultimate comfort food by scratch.

DIY feather wall art.

Tips for traveling on the cheap without roughing it.

I almost made manchego quince skewers for our Diner En Blanc.

A fun way to give cash as a gift.

I could get behind overalls again if they looked like this.

How to throw a proper Mexican fiesta.

A round up of beach reads for the remaining days of summer.

 

And some posts of mine you may have missed...

• Monday Motivation
• Field Candy Tents
• Leaves In The Mail

{Image via Model Mayhem}

Good Thoughts

Roald Dahl was one of my favorite authors growing up. He sure knows a thing or two. Have a memorable weekend, my loves. Enjoy the links...

How one man measures the universe.

I can't get enough of SharkCat!

Cutie cloud coat hangers.

I'm going here next time I eat out. 

A chocolate exhibition in Tokyo.

My coffee table wants this book.

10 (+1) hints for a happy marriage.

Cheeky ant napkins for picnics.

Cats dressed as sushi.

How to keep house plants alive.

 

And some posts of mine you may have missed...

• A Steam Train Ride
• Before We Begin
• A Piano Birdcage

 

{Pre-edited image via: Charcoal Alley}

It's Not Your Job To Like Me

Sticking with the self compassion theme, this quote speaks to me. Like yourself, and others will too. Have a beautiful weekend, dear ones. It's Seafair in Seattle! We'll be relaxing on a boat with friends in the middle of Lake Washington. Enjoy yourselves!  Here are your links...

Make more time to make.

A cake made to look like the planet Jupiter.

If threw a cat-themed party, would you come?  

The 15 most difficult would-you-rather questions.

Paintings made with ice cream.

How to make a geometric paper garland.

Awesome photos of people sleeping.

A wooden spoon guestbook idea for foodies.

The cure for mosquito bites?

IKEA hack: a closet within a bookcase.

10 drool-worthy houseboats from around the world.

 

And some posts of mine you may have missed...

• Heart Rocks
• Berets
• Clear Balloons

{Pre-edited image by Anthropologie}

An Adventure

Here's my big adventure for the weekend: cleaning out our rusty fridge and hauling in a new one from Home Depot. Like the rest of our house, the kitchen is tiny, and the old refrigerator blocks a lovely window to the backyard. Our landlord offered to reimburse us if we could find one that fit underneath the sill. We couldn't. But we did find two affordable shorty fridges to place side by side. His and hers. Here's hoping they fit all our food!

Have an adventurous weekend (more adventurous than mine, please) and do enjoy the links...

Polenta rounds, my next dinner on the grill.

A carpenter's work bench turned kitchen island.

Cheeky painted toe heels.

How to make oatmeal face wash.

Someone please buy this awesome boat-shaped bar.

Could you do the vegan before 6 diet?

If I sewed, I'd make this front-tie hoodie.

38 barn-style bedrooms.

Memorable wedding menu scrolls.

For whole food purists, make your own tofu.

 

And some posts of mine you may have missed...

• Hello Weather
• A Live Action Logo
• Fan Club 

 

{Image by Child At Heart Art}

Song Of The Open Road

Do you have any big plans for the weekend? By the time you read this, Hal and I will be on the open road. You'd never know by his baby face, but my hubs is turning 40! Before we celebrate with friends on Saturday, I'm surprising him, secret clues and all, with an overnight trip to only-I-know-where, which may prove challenging since he's the one driving the motorcycle! I'll tell you how it all turns out.

Enjoy the links!

How to style denim shorts.

A brilliant solution for wall paint touch-ups.

Personal eggplant pizzas.

A DIY shapeable headband scarf.

How to make Anthro's diorama bookends.

Are you into the tie-front top trend?

The proper way to cut a watermelon.

A beautiful tree branch hand rail.

Glam up the garden with gold antler hose holders.

Where can I find this over-water swing set?

 

And some posts of mine you may have missed...

• My Cuban Experience
• Polaroid Paintings
• Natural Head Crowns

 

{Pre-edited image via Imogene + Willie}

Music & Cats

Truer words have never been spoken, Mr. Schweitzer. I feel you. Have an inspiring weekend, my darlings. Please enjoy the links...

Speaking of music & cats, this tattoo is perfect.

So is this kitty bracelet, meow.

5 things to do with broken eyeshadow.

The cutest baby onesies I ever did see.

How to make a minimal bouquet.

I'm obsessed with these Mexican blanket shorts.

25 pretty party garlands.

Cots may be underrated.

Wheat grass ice cubes for your complexion.

A sweet DIY picnic blanket.

And some posts of mine you may have missed...

• Cats. In. Space.
• Visualizing Vivaldi
• Outfits Inspired By Dishes 

{Pre-edited image by Mait Jüriado}

Fireworks

Are you getting excited for the 4th of July? My family and I will be celebrating early over the weekend, since the county allows the use of personal fireworks a full week before Independence Day. It will be hard to beat last year's show on the lake, but we'll do our best. Bring on the sparklers, snap pops, bottle rockets, smoke bombs, and mortar shells, I'm ready.

Have a thrilling weekend! Enjoy the festive links...

 

A cute way to wear red, white and blue.

The 4th essentials.

Proud to be an American pie.

Stars & stripes jeans with a scarf.

Fun firecracker shots. 

Make a patriotic statement in your home. 

An Independence Day beach picnic menu.

Star-shaped red & blue ice cubes.

Fourth of July fruit skewers.

DIY American flag cuffs.

 

And some posts of mine you may have missed...

• Juicy Watermelon
• A Fourth of July Toast
• Independence Day

{Image via Nordstrom}

Going Slow

There is absolutely no reason for being rushed along with the rush.
Everybody should be free to go slow.

- Robert Frost

Have a lingering weekend, my loves. Admire the view, close your eyes, feel the breeze. And go slow. I'll see you again on Monday and until then, please enjoy the links...

 

The 10 best summer camp movies.

An interesting article on reclaiming domesticity.

What advice would you give to your 23-year-old self?

Beautiful quotes about motherhood.

Any reason to throw a cat party is good in my book.

5 great tips to reach your goals.

Somehow, this long flowy skirt & sweatshirt pairing works.

20 fun DIY nightstands.

An awesome macrame lamp.

I like to think that I inspired BHLDN's buyers to carry my wedding dress!

 

And some posts of mine you may have missed...

• Bright Coral Eyelids
• Tea Houses
• Black & White Holga Love 

{Image by Branco Prata}

Solo Road Trips

My freshman-year college roomie is in Portland for a wedding, so I'm driving down from Seattle for a 24-hour rendezvous. It takes about 3.5-hours each way, just long enough to enjoy my alone time with the windows rolled down and the speakers turned up. It's also a great opportunity to catch up on "reading". One time I listened to the entire audio book of Eat, Pray, Love during a solo drive from Los Angeles to Monterrey. Do you ever take road trips by yourself?

Have an adventurous weekend, my loves. Here are a few fun links to keep you entertained...

 

A handmade Father's Day gift guide.

Curtains hung with nautical rope.

How to make your own fanny pack (and why you'd want to).

How awesome is this VW bus tent?

15 toys you can create with a cardboard box. 

Who knew jello shots could be classy?

Vintage advice for girls who wear glasses.

An entire wedding photographed via Instagram.

Thinking of living aboard a boat?

Would you wear any of these one-piece bathing suits?

 

And some posts of mine you may have missed...

• A Dream Motorcycle Ride
• To Long For The Sea
• A Little Town At Night 

{Pre-edited image via Style Tracker}

That Summer Feeling

Seattle's finally feeling the heat. Although summer's officially two weeks away, we're getting a nice little sampling of what's to come. This weekend should be a glorious one. Does it feel like summer where you live?

Enjoy the sun and the a few happy links...

 

An artistic summer salad.

How to get no-heat beach hair waves.

A treehouse that rivals the one my dad built.

4 steps to a smart marriage.

One stunning ear cuff.

An unbalanced hotel concept in Madrid.

Two silly yet spooky cats.

Wire sculptures never cease to amaze me.

Could you live inside the world's skinniest house?

A pretty photo backdrop.

And some posts of mine you may have missed...

• Bouffant Bangs
• Snacks
• Afternoon Outings

 

{Pre-edited image via Julia}

My New Neighborhood Frozen Yogurt Joint

The new neighborhood frozen yogurt joint is actually not new at all. I just never noticed it before! Hal teases me because this is a reocurring theme in my life - pointing out "new" shops that have been around for years. I guess I spend a lot of time with my head in the clouds, what can I say?  

The yogurt spot is a wannabe lower-priced Pinkberry, with more flavors and toppings. Something tells me I'll be spending a lot of pennies here this summer. I'm boring and always get the same thing each time: original tart with fresh raspberries, kiwi, and those little white yogurt chips for crunch. Are you a frozen yogurt fan? How do you eat yours?

Have a yummy weekend, friends! And please enjoy the links...

Sleep under the stars in an outdoor hotel room.

Fun first look photos underneath a parachute.

The world needs more little free libraries.

20 simple pom pom DIYs.

A very good reason to let things go.

A vase that tells you when to water your plants.

The hilarious solution to picnic wine.

I want to see this documentary on all-girl big bands.

A gorgeous bohemian wedding dress.

What to do when you run out of space on your bookshelves.

 

And some posts of mine you may have missed...

• Secret Cheese Plates For One
• A Wall Of Doors
• Feather Reflectors

{Image via The Sparkle}

Warm Spring Rain

It's been a wet week in Seattle and the rain will most likely continue throughout the holiday weekend. No barbecues or beaches this Memorial Day. But my niece, who turns 1 tomorrow, will be all the sunshine we could possibly need. I can't wait to see her face as we sing happy birthday for the very first time.

Have a sweet long weekend, sugar plums. Until Tuesday, here are a few links to keep you entertained...

3 awesome map headboards.

Free audiobooks all summer long.

1920's Gatsby-inspired wedding gowns.

Make your own distressed wooden shelves.

I second these wardrobe staples.

Ever roasted a cauliflower whole?

Genius cloth "paper" towels.

An amazing lighted balloon backdrop.

Crop tops, do or don't?

I love this print of my city!

And some posts of mine you may have missed...

• Tiny Toadstool
• A Bike Brigade
• Outsiders 

{Image via In Good Company}

To Read & Rest

I've had a trying, emotional week, my dears. I think I'll take the next few days to read and rest. My body and my mind deserve a little escape.

Have a lovely weekend, wherever you are in the world. And please enjoy the links...

Wishing this room was mine right now.

A handy guide to stacking rings.

How to land a book deal.

Beautiful ice cream roses.

A spring vegetarian dinner for six.

Frozen pb and banana snacks.

How to manage internet overwhelm.

A cute storybook garland.

Spring roll in a bowl.

A love story in a treehouse.

And some posts of mine you may have missed...

• An Outdoor Open Air Library
• Loving Life
• Childscapes

 

{Image by Carles Rodrigo}

Mother's Day Weekend

Happy Mother's Day to all the strong and supportive mamas of the world. Will you be celebrating on Sunday? Our family will be spending the weekend at my parents' house. The Seattle sun has been gracing us with her presence all week and I'm praying it stays warms for a barbecue and bonfire. Have a very special weekend, my dear ones. Please enjoy the links...

Sweet and simple Mother's Day gift wrap.

A free printable watercolor card for Mom.

The best motherly advice.

The importance of family stories and traditions.

Homemade nutter butters.

A camera lens wedding ring.

Engagement photos modeled after famous musical couples.

The latest issue of Rue is all about the Pacific NW.

Say how you feel in a cake!

DIY dip-dyed sneakers.

And some posts of mine you may have missed...

• Stop The Motion Fridays
• Custom House Portraits
• English Gardens

 

  {Image by Blue Caleel Photography}

Destination Charleston, SC

I'll be doing the Charleston for the next 5 days! My girlfriends and I are meeting Chucktown for our southern adventure. And an adventure it will be, since the weather forecasts thunderstorms during our entire stay!

We have quite the itinerary, thanks for your suggestions on what to see, eat and do. We'll also be squeezing in time to discuss our last-minute book club selection, The Prince of Tides, themed to our destination, of course.

I didn't have time to schedule posts while I'm away, so I apologize in advance for the radio silence next Monday through Wednesday. I'll be back in action on May 2nd with a full recap of our escapades.

Have a wonderful weekend, wherever you are in the world! Enjoy the links...

Inspired by Tuesday's post? Try DIY flower bombs.

7 ways to look better in photos.

This guy is one cool dad.

The anatomy of a cheese plate.

How to make your flowers last longer.

Grilled nectarine cups filled with mascarpone.

A very good motto to live by.

Hi, cute swimsuit.

A fun way to brighten up your closet.

This is how I wore my hair the day Hal and I met, 11 years ago yesterday!

And some posts of mine you may have missed...

• Pincurls & A Turban
• Ulala Collars
• DIY Teeny Tiny Houseplants

{Pre-edited image via Refashion}

Cheer

I know it's hard to remain cheerful with distressing events occurring in Boston. But I really think it's important to focus on the love in this world, which far outweighs the hate. Let's continue to root for the goodness in others.

Enjoy your weekend, my dears. Here are your links...

How we can help the people of Boston.

A true and beautiful post on energy.

Brighten rainy days with this DIY umbrella.

The entire Simpsons intro recreated with humans.

Grapefruit and brown sugar muffins.

Remember playing with parachutes as a child?

Awesome vintage photos of summer art school.

A colorful hexagon room makeover.

Would you wear map-print wedges?

Wish I could attend the Festival of Books at my alma mater!

And some posts of mine you may have missed...

• Wildfox White Label
• Astronauts & Butterflies
• A Timeless Pursuit

{Images via TypeToy by National Geographic, August 1960}

The South

I have a confession to make. I have never been to the South. But all of that will change very soon. In a few weeks, 3 girlfriends and I will be taking a little trip to Charleston, South Carolina! We visited Vancouver in the past and we're trying to make it a tradition to travel some place new every year. We have the hotel nailed, but if you have any suggestions for places to go and things to see, I'm all ears!

Have a sweet weekend y'all and enjoy the links...

Today is National Grilled Cheese Day!

How to make raw stone pendants.

A rad bicycle bar cart for coctails on the go.

5 new accessories from an old leather belt.

Yum yum, stuffed rigatoni.

Can you believe these items are made of wood?

A wild rainbow house with indoor slides.

Would you go into business with your significent other?

Do what you love and do it often - free printable!

A pretty pleated wedding dress.

And some posts of mine you may have missed...

• Wild Pulp
• Traveling In Style
• A Southern / Soul Food Feast

{Image by Southern Weddings}

A Mother Daughter Day

What are you up to this weekend? My mom is coming up to Seattle for our friend's baby shower and we're planning to spend the rest of the day together, maybe taking a stroll along Alki Beach. Doing mother-daughter things. You know, like skipping rope in the sand and such.

Have a wonderful time, sweet peas. Please enjoy the links...

A build-your-own mimosa bar.

Green boxes delivered to your doorstep every month.

Beautiful split-grain wooden lamps.

What do you think of the  hold-the-hair-back strap?

The girl who lived in a billboard.

If you've ever wanted to go on the Sound of Music Tour...

3 sauces to dip artichokes in.

Make a music video for Ok Go.

Would you ever draw on bottom lashes?

A fun April Fool's explosion.

And some posts of mine you may have missed...

• Long Pleated Skirts & Gowns
• Pogo Sticks
• Turning 70

{Images by Sven Türck}

The Real Easter Bunny

Have a delightful Easter weekend, dear ones. Do you have any holiday plans with family or friends? I came across so many Easter egg crafts this year, my weekend links today are all egg-related... enjoy!

Edible confetti eggs.

Genius tea infuser eggs.

Classy white penned eggs.

Colorful marbleized eggs.

Fancy calligraphy eggs.

Shiny gold leafed eggs.

Party-time sequined eggs.

Fun pinata eggs.

Flashy blinged-out eggs.

Intricate string-wrapped eggs.

Artistic black & white eggs.

Tasty sprinkle eggs.

Quirky photo-print eggs.

Amazing wood-burned eggs.

Pretty crocheted eggs.

And some posts of mine you may have missed...

• DIY - An Easter Eggshell Garden
• Sir Hopsalot
• Homemade Cadbury Creme Eggs

{Image by Amanda Keeys}

Black Cat On White Laundry

Last night, I found my little Bailes all bundled up in Hal's clean white laundry. Not clean anymore! She looked so innocent and kitten-like. She has a vet check-up tomorrow to make sure all systems are a go. I'm crossing my fingers that the cat reiki is holding up.

Have a peaceful weekend, loves. Here are a few links for your enjoyment...

A cute cat wrap-around ring.

Everything you need to throw a polenta party.

Would you live in a waffle factory?

Make a garland out of paperclips.

A summer camp for adults only!

What are your thoughts on flatforms?

A lovely crown braid tutorial.

Fun wedding idea: handwritten vows on plates.

Easter table decor inspiration.

Floor-to-ceiling sliding doors instead of walls.

And some posts of mine you may have missed...

• A Palm Springs Trailer Park
• Spring Blooms Around My Neighborhood
• Two Faces

Spring Showers

It's Friday. It's raining. And I'm happy about both. It's the perfect opportunity to lock myself indoors to do taxes. I hope to get a good refund this year. We'll be filing as a married couple for the first time and I'm curious to see how that plays out.

Have a happy Saint Patrick's Day, darlings. We'll be celebrating our Irishness with a pint of Guinness or two, how about you? Enjoy the weekend links...

How to make Guinness brew bread.

DIY jar of luck.

5 creative uses for clipboards.

Have you seen this viral love story?

Spring brunch salad with... chocolate!

Would you sail around the world while pregnant?

Wallpaper? Nope, they're patterned decals.

5 must-read books for new parents.

Beautiful scrap metal animal art.

I'm digging these wood shoes.

And some posts of mine you may have missed...

• Guinness Goodies
• The Luck Of The Irish
• Girls In Green Dresses

A Hello To Spring

I realize some of you are buried in snow. Not to rub it in, but here in the Northwest, Spring is peeking through the clouds. Come visit! The sunshine feels glorious.

What are your weekend plans? I'm looking forward to dinner at Shanik, a new Indian restaurant by the owners of the famous Vij's in Vancouver, then girl time with a bestie who just flew into town on business, and a Sunday brunch double date.

Have a good time, bloggy friends. Don't forget to set your clocks forward! Here are your links...

More sweet Spring inspiration.

Tiny wee fiction: tales that fit within 140 characters.

Have you ever sent someone an apology card?

Feminine floral tattoos.

You'll never believe these clothes and furniture are made of paper.

Plaster hands are popping up all over the streets of Barcelona.

Would you pack all black for a trip to Europe?

Loving these X-rays as art.

Chocolate and avocado pudding.

Pretty gem vases.

 

And some posts of mine you may have missed...

• Earth Circles
• DIY Ceiling Lamp Flower Pots
• Pastel Pants

{Image via Little Green Shed}

Rest & Relaxation

Phew, it has been a long week. I plan on taking some time out over the next few days to seriously relax. The cat approves!

Have a restful weekend and enjoy the links, my friends...

How to cook with 5 ingredients in 10 minutes;

Grown-ups can wear bear ear hats too.

Ever considered painting your walls kelly green?

This article makes me want to clean out my pantry.

When two doctors get engaged, they send X-ray save-the-dates.

Make your own high-low skirt.

Loving this week's pets on furniture. Emu!

5 amazing home theaters.

Graphic nails inspired by the runway.

The new "it" tree.

And some posts of mine you may have missed...

• Glass Logs
• A Rajasthani Princess
• Box of Birds

{Image by Aya Gao}

Craving Bangs

My hair appointment is on Saturday and I'm craving bangs. I've had them before and loved them, so I'm not sure why it's such a scary thing for me. There are 3 things holding me back: 1. my hair is ultra fine; 2. my hair grows ridiculously fast; and 3. I'll actually have to style my hair in the morning, heaven forbid! But I'm majorly due for a change. Do you have bangs?

UPDATE: I went for it and got them snipped! Here they are.

Have a good weekend, dearies. I'm looking forward to meeting my friend's brand new baby girl and watching the Oscars on Sunday!

Here are a few links for your amusement...

A collar for cats who mean business.

What's your favorite way to eat avocados?

A simple idea for wall hooks.

Surprise someone with a pinata cake.

Colorful teaspoon wallpaper.

A DIY upper finger ring.

The new way to make nachos.

5 creative ways to camouflage a flat screen TV.

A delectable hot chocolate bar.

My sentiments exactly.

And some posts of mine you may have missed...

• A Journey On The Orient Express
• Color Color Color
• A Feather In Your Hair

{Pre-edited Image via Rainman by Alexander Kuzmin}

Weekend Exploration

I hope you had a sweet Valentine's Day yesterday. Did you do anything fun? We stayed in. Keeping with the heart-shaped dinner theme, Hal cooked me this to appeal to my inner 5-year old. Good man.

U.S. friends, will you be traveling over the holiday weekend? If not, it's a perfect time to explore your own city. We hope to cross a few adventures off our stuff-we've-always-wanted-to-do-in-Seattle list.

Enjoy the links and I'll see you again on Tuesday...

I'm thinking about getting bangs like this.

A balloon bench inspired by the 1953 French film, “Le Ballon Rouge”.

Halfway to heaven peanut butter cookies.

3 pink lakes on my travel lust list.

Did you know you can dye your hair with real gold?

4 creative flavored butter recipes.

I want to blow up and frame this truly awesome photograph.

Any ladies looking to propose to their boyfriend?

How to make a cool light-up sign.

Would you eat dinner in an igloo?

And some posts of mine you may have missed...

• Sun Boxes
• A Bold Print Dress
• Spaghetti Nests

{Image by Wesley Bird}

Love Notes

Do you and your honey write each other love notes? We don't. After 10+ years of togetherness, everything's been said. But I suppose it's less about the words and more about the effort put in to show you care. Here's a fun idea. An entire wall of origami paper hearts. Inside each pocket holds a little love note to be opened and read. Melanie shows us how to make them right here.

Since V-Day falls on a Thursday, will you be celebrating over the weekend? I think we might visit the Seattle Aquarium down by the pier. Neither of us have been and it seems like a nice and warm romantic outing for a cold winter's day.

Have a special weekend, sweetie pies. Enjoy the lovey dovey links...

More pretty paper hearts for the wall.

And cute love letter scrolls.

Drink bubbly with heart-shaped drinking straws.

Stir up some heat with match book valentines.

Find a secret message in a bottle.

Have breakfast in bed with lace heart pancakes.

Show off your gams with DIY heart tights.

Embarrass someone with a giant printable poster.

Serenade your sweetheart with a love playlist.

Say it right with conversation heart sugar cookies.

And some posts of mine you may have missed...

• DIY Felt Fortune Cookies
• Heart Art
• Roller Skate Dates

{Pre-edited image via Minted by Melanie Blodgett}

Red Lips & White Snow

Admiring this beautiful photo of Katie, taken shortly after she got engaged. She reminds me Snow White and this girl. Don't you love how her red lips and pink cheeks just pop?

Have a special weekend, dear ones. Please enjoy the links...

Super Bowl entertaining essentials.

Incredibly creative business cards from Alt Summit.

Do you stress when hosting friends?

This bride & groom made abstract art during their ceremony!

Cute black cat nails.

Makeup tips for girls who wear glasses.

My favorite color is the Pantone Color of the Year!

Funky tattooed bananas.

Get your man a broquet for V-Day (the Woodsman cracks me up).

Sweet pics of Obama with his mama.

 

And some posts of mine you may have missed...

• Under The Waves
• A Birthday Party In A Box
• Studies In Landscapes & Wardrobes

 

{Image by Katie Louise Ford}

Turning Leftovers Into Grilled Cheese Sandwiches

One good thing about having a baked potato bar is the absurd amount of leftovers. What does this mean? To me, it means fancy grilled cheese sandwiches. Last night, I made a delicious one with goat cheese, pesto, roasted red pepper sauce, sun-dried tomatoes and avocado. Next, I plan to make one with brie and pomegranate seeds. What's in your favorite gourmet grilled cheese?

Have a flavorful weekend, my loves. Please enjoy the links...

25 mouth-watering grilled cheese recipes.

A beautiful winter wedding with a sleigh ride for guests.

Did you know you could live on the back of your bicycle?

A miniature wooden record player.

Incredible snow art.

Wait, cookies for breakfast?

Darling hand knit crowns for kiddos.

A medieval hotel in Italy.

How to make a heart-shaped cross stitch sweater.

A great idea for Super Bowl snacks.

And some posts of mine you may have missed...

• Tea At Sea
• The Sheer Black Dress
• What Birds Do When We're Not Looking 

{Images via: 1-4: Martha Stewart; 5-6: BS In The Kitchen}

Peace & Quiet

Lately I've been in the mood to hibernate and make space for quiet contemplation. Anyone else feel the same? Have a serene and peaceful weekend, dear ones. Here are a few links for your enjoyment...

10 inspirational prints for the new year.

A sweet sound collage of musicians who passed in 2012.

Awesome Wes Anderson playing cards.

How exactly do these invisible bookends work?

Mini pancake skewers for breakfast.

A clever piano key doorbell.

Turn yourself into a foldable paper figurine.

How to make natural waves for fine hair.

A beautiful Dutch church turned loft home.

I fancy this handmade ring.

 

And some posts of mine you may have missed...

• WA + CA = US
• Little Beach House On The Prairie
• Hail On Your Wedding Day

{Image via Nook}

Another Winter Solstice

We made it! We're still alive and the world kept spinning. Happy winter solstice, my loves. There is much to celebrate.

Don't forget, there's still time to enter the 24 Merry Days giveaways from this week:

• Studio DIY: tote backpack/Fabric & Handle;
• Henry Happened: 3-mo/Umba Box & mask and tail/Oeuf;
• House of Earnest: candle/Ferm Living, jewelry/Son of Sailor;
• Lolalina: journal, notebook & cards/Rifle Paper Co;
• Create Like Crazy: $50 gift/Wit & Whistle;
• Down & Out Chic: robe/Eberjay & gift set/Pink Olive;

Here are a few festive weekend links...

Sandy Claus delivers toys to hurricane victims.

A colorful minimalist nativity set.

Shaved brussels sprout Christmas salad.

Wrapped books instead of an advent calendar.

DIY rustic snowflakes.

The 12 tastes of Christmas recipes.

Cute stick Santas. 

Projects for leftover tree trimmings.

Christmas in a paper cut book.

Pepperminty candy cane cocktails.

And some posts of mine you may have missed...

• Trader Joes Paper Bag Gift Wrap
• Presents Under The Tree
• Downloadable Holiday CD Sleeves

{Images via W-I-N-T-E-R}

Pretty French Lingerie

On Sunday, I'll be singing at Bellefleur's sold-out fashion show! It should be a very fun night of song, burlesque, and pretty French lingerie. Please wish me luck!

My 24 Merry Days giveaway ends on Sunday at midnight PST, so make sure to get your entries in for the Crane & Canopy bedding! And you still have time to enter the other amazing giveways from this week:

• Funkytime: tape/Wishi Washy & camera strap/Bloom Theory;
• Oh The Lovely Things: 1-year/Kinfolk & scarf/Lauren Moffatt;
• Design Crush: backpack/Poketo and watch/InstaWatch;
• Mint: furniture legs/Pretty Pegs and $50 gift card/Leif;
• Little White Whale: $50 gift/Umbra and $50 gift/Diament;
• Moorea Seal: $50 gift/Carolina Benoit and camera bag/Ona;

Have a fab weekend, sweetie pies. Here are your links...

Cute DIY pocket warmers.

White chocolate and peppermint popcorn.

Bundle up for a winter date night.

Frost flowers that bloom on the Arctic Ocean.

Lined notebook paper iPad cases.

My cat wants this bed.

How to bottle your own cocktails.

This mountain chalet reminds me of Seattle's Anthropologie.

Wishing I could be in NY right now for this exhibit.

I wish this too.

And some posts of mine you may have missed...

• Free Holiday Gift Tags
• Scarves In The Wind
• Snow Beauty

{Pre-edited image via Girl Meets Whirl by Odile de Changy}

The Tree Hunt

Growing up, my folks would take my brother and I to the neighboring farms to cut down our own Christmas tree. I miss that experience. It's just not the same dragging out my faux white tree from the closet! If you celebrate Christmas, have you gotten a tree yet?

Don't forget to visit me this Sunday for my 24 Merry Days giveaway! If you missed any this week, you still have time to enter:

Sugar & Cloth: Poms/Potter & Butler & bracelet/Jelanie;

The Sweetest Occasion: $250 adventure/Cloud 9 Living;

That's Happy: Serving platters and bowls/Mud Australia;

This Little Street: Fox coat/Little Goodall and shoes/Joyfolie;

Hank & Hunt: Teapot and jar/Gretel Home;

Have a wonderful weekend, dearies. Please enjoy the links...

Hey, It's Christmas Volume 3 is out!

A tasty chai tea shortbread recipe.

Sweet heart mittens.

Make a get-well kit for under-the-weather friends.

Would you ever live in a shipping container?

A fun paint fight engagement shoot.

Very cool paperclip radiators.

Pretty holiday chalkboard signs.

5 simple rules for happiness.

The cutest black cat sweater.

And some posts of mine you may have missed...

• A Little Snow Date
• Window Sills
• A Reindeer Roundup

{Image via Les Petites Choses}

Oversized Sweaters

Most all the sweaters I own are oversized. I love swimming in them. They're like warm knit oceans.

Have a cozy weekend, dear ones. Are you up to anything special? Starting tomorrow, don't forget to enter the 24 Merry Days giveaways at 79 Ideas and Fellow Fellow for a chance to win a $350 gift certificate from Kirribilla and a city print from Famille Summerbelle.

Enjoy the links...

How to knit a giganto blanket.

I want an entire wall of stored fireplace wood.

A bulb bouquet for winter brides.

How cute are these sleeping kitty studs and cat eye masks?

Make a simple and classy holiday ribbon star.

My two favorite advent calendars of the year: here and here.

Embroidered tea bags.

Love this handmade wedding backdrop.

Hungry for some scanwiches?

A pretty free printable to count your blessings.

And some posts of mine you may have missed...

• Splashes
• Making Salt
• DIY Crocheted Envelopes

{Image via Dotty Love}

Rainy Weekends

Hooray for the weekend! It's supposed to rain here nonstop, but of course, that's alright by me. Have a good one darlings. And please enjoy the links...

Have you seen the new digital Polaroid camera?

This genius picnic bag slash blanket got funded!

Happy little 2-tone balloons.

7 of the world's best nano homes.

Look what fell off the cheeseburger tree.

Cool rural art installations.

Turn yourself into a figurine using a 3D photobooth.

A visual hi-fi history of turntables.

Would you write a love letter to a stranger?

Wishing I could experience Venice like this.

And some posts of mine you may have missed...

• My Interview With Cynthia Rowley
• Field Guide Butterflies
• An Edible Poster 

{Image by: Wish Wish Wish}

Skyfall

Can't wait to see Skyfall tonight. As you may know, I'm a James Bond fanatic. My dream is to write and sing the theme song one day. They're saying this film is the best one yet, which I can't wrap my head around because it will be hard to beat Casino Royale in my eyes.

Have a great weekend, friends! Please enjoy the links...

A collection of vintage Bond book covers.

How to make frozen ice lanterns.

This Portland home used to be a 1949 train car.

Host a hearty soup party.

Dr. Suess wedding inspiration.

A very cool cat-shaped kindergarten.

Have you heard of the Free Art Machine?

Hand-drawn TV show floor plans.

The music of stones.

What I'd like to make for dinner on Sunday.

And some posts of mine you may have missed...

• Succulent Cork Magnets
• Beauties on Bikes
• Musical Gardens

{Image via Society6 by Arian Noveir}

Saying Thanks

What are you up to this weekend? We'll be diligently devoted to wedding thank-you cards. I feel guilty for taking this long to get them done. So to our generous guests, rest assured you'll be receiving our sincerest thanks in the mail shortly!

I hope you all have a relaxing few days. Please enjoy the links...

How to make edible photo lollipops.

Reason enough to be envious of Paris.

A sweet pumpkin proposal.

Have you heard about the iTypewriter?

Keep your kitty warm in the winter.

This couple had a Rice Krispies wedding cake.

10 hearty vegetarian pasta recipes.

Android users, I want your Field Trip app.

These pretty wellies would have come in handy this week!

A creature surprise in your coffee cup.

And some posts of mine you may have missed...

• Delicious Autumn
• Postcard Purses
• Gray

{Image by Karolin Schnoor}

Classic Catwoman

How have I never been Catwoman for Halloween? Tragic, really. I think you'll like our costumes this year. We'll be attending a few parties, so I'll make sure to take good photos for the blog. What are you dressing up as? And don't tell me you're not dressing up! :)

Have a wicked Halloween weekend, my friends. Here are some links to get you in the mood...

Catwoman's baby?

Colorful pumpkin string art.

15 spooky treats.

Ghostly potato soup.

DIY cheesecloth spirits.

Bone cookie invitations.

10 books that will scare you silly.

A white Halloween.

Stunning spiderweb eye makeup.

4 last minute couples costume ideas.

And some posts of mine you may have missed...

• Costume Hunting
• Vintage Witches
• Black Cat Auditions

{Images via: 1. Bond-Tastic; 2. Bikes and The City}

A Spook Fest

BOO! Any fun plans this weekend? We're going to my folks' house for their annual Halloween party. I'm excited to reveal our costumes, scavenger hunt, roast pumpkin seeds, play spooky games, and watch old horror flicks. 

I haven't done my weekend links in awhile due to wedding/honeymoon craziness, but it's time to bring 'em back. So here you go!

Printable pumpkin stencils.

A cute costume for a little boy.

Beautiful filigree skulls.

Never get your luggage stolen again.

Bold blue lashes.

A genius built-in cat litter box.

Roasted tomatoes with goat cheese & pesto.

Retro musical instrument wallpaper.

The book of the future.

Would you eat raw garlic for a cold?

And some posts of mine you may have missed...

• Sexy Basketball
• Finding Faces
• Australian Sand

{Image via 31am}

Heat Waves

We're having a heat wave here in Seattle. Normally, I can't handle temperatures above 90 degrees, but since our summer has been relatively mild, it's a nice change of pace.

Stay cool, my sweets! Here are a few links for your amusement...

Roasted strawberry, brie & chocolate grilled cheese.

40 great literary names for babies.

A fun illustrated movie poster wedding invite.

How to take a road trip with just the girls.

A vintage cheeseboard wall.

Who knew that cats could be trained?

12 pretty stone fruit recipes.

A colored pencil tree.

This talented gal sewed her own swimsuit.

Concrete stepping stones that look like pillows.

And some posts of mine you may have missed...

• Sheet Music Doodles
• Watermelon Balsamic Cubes
• Separated At Birth

{Image via Culture Club by Getty Images}