Becoming Jane...

2012-01-21T15:17:00.010-06:00

As I wandered through Anthropologie today I found my self wishing I was getting married again!! Ok not entirely true! I would take the wedding without the never ending "to do" list and a little more MUCHO DINERO but other than that brand new dishes and appliances would be the beez kneez!!! I would love to registered for almost everything I saw today. From floral plates to ceramic strawberry baskets I was in heaven!!

2012-01-16T21:24:00.006-06:00

I love to dream about all the changes I am going to make to my nearly 100 year old catalog home...but then I decide a vacation is much more important!! Dreaming costs nothing so here goes! My latest dream is to rip out the standard boring sink in my laundry/half bath and replace it with a vintage sink. If I can find one for a decent price I might just do it or I might go to NYC? We will see but for now here is what I am thinking...

2012-01-14T17:18:00.006-06:00

I was going through my routine of reading all my favorite blogs. Over at Pink Cupcake Vintage the latest post is about a fab retro appliance. It got me to thinking what is my favorite retro/vintage something? That little find I would give my right arm to have in pristine condition. Is it an Retro Cosco Step Stool Seat or a complete set of 1969 Childcraft art books? No, no those are maybe #2 and #3. My #1 would be a beautiful set or sets of either Hazel Atlas or Pyrex mixing bowls. I want to line the tops of my cabinets with multi-colored mixing bowl madness!! I think the polka dots are my fav but I wouldn't mind a pantry full of color coordinated varying shades like in the photo above.

Let Go...

2011-10-13T23:05:00.002-05:00

The most difficult thing in life is learning how to give up control. The moment you surrender yourself to the greater good by realizing that we are not in control is the moment you find true inner peace. Close your eyes. Take a breath. Let it go. Repeat.

2011-09-25T18:29:00.009-05:00

Design Board for James & Abby's Guest Bath

1.) Starting with the inspiration piece, an abstract collage of The Dead Sea by yours truly, I chose the color palette. It you look closely you can see so many different colors from a very saturated black to a ballet pink. It is these two colors, black and pink, that will become their walls and ceiling.

2.) When you decide to go with a very dark shade on the walls it is important to invite other items into the space that reflect light and create sparkle. A venetian glass mirror is the perfect compliment. Nothing too big or too fussy for a small space but the piece should help spread the light.

3.) A guest bath is the perfect place to think outside the box. Using Martha Stewart's French Bulldog will make the tiny 5'x5' powder room a perfect shade of Dracula black! To soften this look we will add Martha's Paris Pink to the ceiling.

4.) Both the toilet and the sink are a nice mix of modern traditional. All white for added contrast.

5.) These sconces are perfect as they add the necessary light but do not detract from the amazing venetian glass mirror.

6.) Inexpensive bathroom accessories from Ikea are perfect to round out our color palette.

NESTING DOLLS, Nesting, Dolls, nesting dolls

2011-09-02T08:07:00.011-05:00

I <3 nesting dolls. Especially modern funky versions of them!! My first introduction to a more contemporary set of dolls was with the very whimsical plates below and then the obsession took over...

2011-08-23T17:44:00.011-05:00

Normally my birthday makes it feel like the end of summer but this year I added the beach to my end of summer festivities. This year I got to celebrate my b-day in style on the red neck riviera better know as Panama City Beach. Not only did I have a fabulous 34th birthday with my babes but I had it surrounded by white sand and emerald green waters. We ate the best seafood, swam in the gulf (albeit only once as the waters were full of fish that pooled at your feet...let's just say nightmare scenario), and drifted together in the hotel pool. It was a birthday for the books. I also got to quickly reminisce (to rolled eyes and deep sighs) about my first kiss at Hotel Chateau. I wonder what ever happened to Shane Carr?? Your upside down kiss was magical to my unknowing 16 year old self. *(^-^)*

FYI

This...
+ This...

= THIS = ME!!!

New Page

2011-08-11T20:03:00.007-05:00

A while back I started a new blog dedicated to something I am very passionate about, Interior Design. I think it is too hard to keep up with both so I am adding a new page to Becoming Jane entitled-Interior Design. Do you design?

Meet James & Abby...

This is their fab new bungalow...

and

these are my plans for their lovely new home...

1.) There is nothing simpler than fresh flowers and a glass vase when creating a clean modern eclectic style. James and Abby love natural wood and this woven tray adds just the right touch for their living room.

2.) They received these framed prints as wedding gifts and wanted them to be the centerpiece of their living room. The prints work well with the luxe Hutton Chaise from Room and Board.

3.) The two tones of gray (Dutch Boy-Cathedral Gray (dark) and Pratt & Lambert-Argent (light)) chosen for the wall/ceiling add a touch of modern drama that is the perfect backdrop for all the furniture choices.

4.) Anchoring this eclectic space is this super chic navy chevron rug by Calypso Home.

5.) The Dot Coffee Table from West Elm adds a touch of whimsy to the room.

6.) The accessories in this room really help tie the color scheme together. These anthropologie Sundry Cafe Trays mounted on the wall work perfectly by adding an unexpected detail.

7.) A room saturated with neutral tones of gray needs a pop of bold color. These gorgeous uber luxurious teal wingback chairs are the perfect pop! The small white side table blends into the neutral background while still playing with the modern aesthetic. The beautiful Bree Crystal Accent Lamp is elegant with a contemporary edge.

Stay tuned for the next fab room for Abby & James...Up next: The Guest Bath

2011-08-07T19:53:00.023-05:00

Just in case anyone is wondering what I did on my summer vacation<-----(yea right, I just added grad school on top of a full time job...but nothing worth having is ever easy). Here is a little sample from a full set of construction documents I drafted.

Along the road each and every Kinkos employee I encountered acted like a little bitch. So I would for sure like to thank them for that. Also big ups to my very patient and encouraging husband for loads of nutritious dinners and batches of laundry too numerous to count

On top of drafting I had a very intimate introduction to Nietzsche, Foucault, Bakhtin, and Baudrillard in a very informative Art History class. So the next time you find yourself feeling like there is not enough time in the day revisit this blog entry. Cause I am here to tell you if I can do this anything is possible. Either that or hell just froze over, but good!!

NO WIRE HANGERS...

2011-07-15T15:14:00.004-05:00

Are you a self sabotager? What a co winky dink!! SO AM I?? Just when I get in a place of consistency, I break. After I break a proceed to spiral. My spiral turns into awkward flailing. Sabotage it's what's for dinner.

But then I vent, cry, pull out some hair, dress up like a clown and scream, "No wire hangers" and I am good. Thanks for stopping by I am off to get caught up on school work.

2011-05-05T07:34:00.002-05:00

Ever read A Bad Case of Stripes by David Shannon? There is a point where she has been given so many pills that she turns into a pill!! This me today. Enough said...don't ask.

School Days, school days...

2011-04-24T19:28:00.014-05:00

I have lost a little bit of my voice lately. I feel certain about most things and uncertain about a few important things. I guess that happens throughout life's journey. I am going back to school and I start June 20th. It is the most exciting and important thing I have done since I put on a white dress and met my hubby in NOLA to tie the knot!! The only down side of change is the fear that comes with it. If you are truly living life to it's fullest then a healthy amount of fear just goes with the territory. At 33 I know that if I am afraid or uncertain of something then I am more than likely supposed to be doing it. So as I prep for my new life as a student once again, I am filled with several emotions. I am certain I am on the right path. I am uncertain how my life will change immediately and long term. All of this scares the you-know-what out of me. But life is short and should be about the journey.

Oh by the way I am searching for a new pair of glasses. These are five pairs I had delivered from Warby Parker. WP is a fab online glasses website! Every pair (lenses included) is only $95.

I love these but they look very similar to what I already have.

These are a definite no go as Zan says I look like Velma from Scooby Doo! I thought some guys have a thing for Velma ;)?

I feel I may be channeling Janine from Ghostbusters with these! I am trying to find a new look that is a bit outside the box but this may be a bit far ;)!!

I am getting warmer...

I think we may have a winner!! And for $95 it doesn't feel like much of a sacrifice!!

Carpooling...

2011-03-15T22:01:00.000-05:00

In an effort to save money on gas as well as to avoid old Hitler, the hubs and I are carpooling. Day 1 was good, day 2 was ok, day 3 was questionable and day 4 was epic. Talk about a sure fire way to "work on your marriage" start carpooling!! I am only half joking. While mornings are difficult for both of us the evenings are spectacular. There is nothing more peaceful and lovely than driving home together. It has given us time together without a tv or computer (the traffic can at times be a buzz kill) to make plans for tomorrow.

On a side note: Today marks six years since I met my hubs. While it seems a lifetime we have known one another, it still blows my mine it has only been six. I feel really lucky to have ended up with someone so grounded, loving and moral.

2011-03-14T18:32:00.000-05:00

Currently on my mind...

Staying Focused...
It was recently brought to my attention by someone that lives with me (whose name shall not be mentioned) that I have a tendency to flutter between (upside down and backside forward) ideas. I will admit I tend to be a dreamer with more than 2-3 good ideas bubbling on the surface at any given time. I am and have been well aware of this fact for most of my life. Trying to quiet my mind and stay focused could very well be a full time job.

Forward Motion...
That is it. Just thinking about it. Understanding my own and staying focused long enough to achieve it. Good times.

A Work in Progress

2011-02-20T20:26:00.001-06:00

It is finished!! I will post pics once we set up for the shower!!

A New Project

2011-02-11T23:12:00.000-06:00

There is a baby shower in the works...

The decor is my contribution...

I am hoping all goes well so that...

It will be a beautiful pennant banner to celebrate the arrival of...

Emmaline Wray Chapman!!!

I am following the amazing step-by-step instructions from Molly at the purl bee.

Living An Authentic Life

2011-01-10T15:59:00.000-06:00

I live an authentic life. Or at least I try my very best to live an authentic life. I feel it is a rite of passage to fully embrace being authentic. Authentic meaning many things but first and foremost it means being comfortable with who you are in the world. For many years the notion of "keeping up with the Joneses" (whoever the Joneses are ;@) seemed to define me. I would tell myself that when I get to this point or when I have that thing, I will be truly happy. Don't get me wrong it is a constant struggle but it has gotten easier over the years.

My thirties as well as my husband have given me such a larger sense of the word. I owe a lot as of late to my husband. He still struggles with his own need to find a place that is comfortable for him in the world. He has taught me the most about being authentic. And for the overall peace it has given to me I am so great full. I think he is just authentic...always has been...always will be. He comes from a place that is nothing but authentic. A place where there is no time to worry about the Joneses. He is grounded in faith and lives a very moral life (yes, I know I found me a goodin').

Anyway, just felt like sharing. Authenticity feels so good and should be contagious because we all know that life goes by in a blink. Why not be true to yourself? For better or worse, the world will surely be a more interesting place.

2010-12-30T18:44:00.000-06:00

I love Christmas for so many reasons. I love having an excuse to feel like a kid again. I love hanging out with my family and repeating every year the traditions that my parents started when my sister and I were young (waking each other up, coffee brewing, fire crackling, taking our time unwrapping gifts and sharing stories). My most recent love is watching my little baby niece, Edith Jane, on Christmas morning. I never thought my heart could feel so full but she is so amazing to me. I love how everything is fantastic to her...that is until it is not and for a two year you never know...but even her tantrums are cute (sorry my sister I am sure you could do with fewer of these ;)). My heart feels even more full when I think about next Christmas when there will be a new addition to our clan, EWC. But most of all I love spending time with the love of my life looking at our Christmas tree and talking about how the year has been good to us.

So as 2010 draws to a close I remember that time is fleeting. I remind myself how important it is to worry less and to love more. And most importantly I remind myself to be thankful for another year on this earth to love and to be loved. Happy 2011!

Blahsville

2010-12-28T19:18:00.000-06:00

I am in the year end blahsville. Christmas is over, no New Years plans on the horizon, and a belly that is screaming for some peace on earth!!! I am always a mix of emotions this time of year as it feels like such a bitter sweet time. While on one hand it is inspiring (fingers crossed Z and I will attempt to tile our back splash ;)), it is also very solemn and quiet. There is time to reflect on the year. Was I the best I could be? Mediocre would be pushing it. I have found, while reflecting on the past year/couple of years, that I really have lived my life in a constant state of instant gratification. I realized when the lovely ladies I work with talked about their Christmas charity that it would be the first time I had given financially all year. I know better than that but I always manage to get caught up in how much I need that or how much I need this. It really can be exhausting. So as I cruise or waddle into 2011 this is the thought that I am carrying with me..."It is a year to give."

For today that is all I got. I am sure I will figure the rest out as January unfolds. I hope your holidays were grand. Happy Christmas/2011!!

Etsy Gift Guide #3

2010-11-22T21:25:00.000-06:00

With the holidays rapidly approaching, I felt another Etsy Gift Guide would be the way to go!! Enjoy and remember to always help support an artist! You never know, you may be helping someone achieve their dreams one purchase at a time!!!

Try this unique wreath on for size this holiday season and have a truly funky x-mas!! It is sure to be a conversation piece for years to come!

Is this the cutest thing ever?? I cannot image a more perfect sweater on a dog...so chic!! For a mere $50 your pooch will be all the rage!

To me this is just the perfect shrug! It is stylish but also useful as it covers the entire arm. For more unique crochet items head over to reflectionsbyds shop!!

Being both my mother's daughter as well as glutton for anything vintage x-mas, this lovely pennant one may be on my staircase this year!!

I am sucker for anything with the bold chevron pattern on it and therefore these curtains fit the bill!!

Here is a fabulous circle scarf with a lot to say!! From the size to the color combo, it is truly unique. I love the unique asymmetrical color block!

I WANT I WANT!! Nough said...now can someone tell my hubby that his oh-so-hard-working goddess of a wife takes back what she said about not giving each other x-mas gifts this year??

If you are looking for some inexpensive unique prints check out this print and more from JANETHILLSTUDIO.

I am kind of obsessed with all things mustache labeled! These whimsical glasses would make the most unique gift for that someone who already has everything!!

Hello.

2010-11-11T17:12:00.000-06:00

Most of you know where I have been but for the two that do not I will give you a quick summery. I have been working. I finally decided the anxiety and pressure where too much for me and so I gave my two weeks. It all ended well as my boss helped me to find another job (go figure). I now have my life back and the lesson learned...we shall see but for now I have time to write and make jewelry so all feels right with the world.

P.S. I hope you are well.

Making Progress...

2010-09-12T20:22:00.000-05:00

I feel I have been making progress with the whole "make over/under my life" concept. The problem I am always faced with is that I suffer from instant gratificationitis as well as perfectionitis. Neither of these are helpful when trying to get from point A to point B as gracefully as possible. I guess gracefully is pushing it for me...let's just say getting to point B without losing my sh*t on the lady at the Kroger checkout line. The truth is whether making over or making under your life, it is staying consistent day in and day out that is the real challenge. Baby steps are key albeit annoying and repetitive, baby steps nonetheless. Even doing the most mundane minute something everyday will eventually allow me to achieve any goal I set for myself.

Here is a vintage ad montage to how I feel on a daily basis these days...

Battle armor is needed to start the day in my home. Get souped up or ship out!! Whether it be caffeine or something else I always start my day like the front of a Wheaties box!!

This is a computer, you are in a dental office waiting to get a root canal, this is not a Chinese buffet and no I do not have a lighter. This is me explaining everything short of the birds and the bees most days at work.

Scrub, scrub, scrub til it shines she told her reflection. It must be perfect!!

Is it the end of the day already? It is only 8:15? Well lets put on a dress, scrub gloves and an apron and it is time to party!!

I am not bitter just crazed and tired. Goodnight!! Got to get wired and hopped up on something bright and early!! See you in the funnies!!

Oh yes and I cannot leave out how I am feeling about food these days. *See above photograph and make your own assumption.

The love affair ends today...

2010-09-10T08:34:00.001-05:00

I am sorry to report but I do believe the love affair with my 90 year old house has officially ended. It's not the houses fault. I just happen to spend a couple of days at my parents home and the allure of the on-suite bathroom with it sexy counter top that goes on for days was just too much. I currently dry and flat iron my hair in the dinner room with both instruments strung out across the floor like last year's prom dress. But at my parents home I woke up and showered without being attacked by a shower curtain. The tub in our home, a beautiful old claw foot, requires three shower curtains just to contain the flow from the shower head. The curtains try to swallow you whole as you stand sideways in order to not get bullied by this piece of plastic that keeps sticking to your butt! Good times I know.

It is sad though. I love my little dollhouse. It has such a romantic sense about itself with its long covered front porch and tiny stair case. But I think I may need to be a bit more sensible when choosing my next home. Double sinks would be nice but a more spacious bathroom is a must. Oh well for now my little 90 year old gem with have to suffice.

Happy September!!

2010-09-01T07:43:00.000-05:00

It is September, the birds are singing, and every idiot on their way to work is singing at the top of their lungs...myself included. I actually heard myself singsong out loud, "Happy September"!! And I meant it. Something is in the air and I like it!! Whether it is some kind of magical fairy dust or just that things seem to be going my way this week, the sensation is intoxicating. I am serious I am like Snow White up in this place with birds fluttering to my finger tips as I belt out Magic by B.O.B. I hope it keeps. I have needed a little positive reinforcement as of late. The hardest part about living life to it's fullest while trying to accomplish financial goals, weight goals, etc., is the day in day out. I mean I like turkey but turkey sandwiches with no new fall purse in sight...come on!! No need to venture down that path today!! Anyway, another bird just landed and is begging me for an encore!! Much love and happy September!!

Oh I am so happy today I feel like giving out bouquets of pencils!!

BDAY BLUES?

2010-08-16T21:53:00.000-05:00

It is almost my b-day. Yep that's right me and Jesus. Well here's to another year on god's green earth in relatively good health. Amen...geez I am starting to sound like I am coming up on my 75th b-day. Oh vey! As my 75 year old alter ego Estelle would say,"Oh my gawd. It's only a birthday for cry eye. Go get me a pack a smokes and a Johnny Walker". Pieces of cake to you and you and you!!

Home again, home again...

2010-08-07T14:39:00.000-05:00

Well, that does it for our 2010 vacations but what a way to go out. There is nothing better than lazy days on the bayou. We were in Galliano, LA, Z's hometown for a few days. Just to give you a visual Galliano is 33 miles north of Grand Isle (where all the oil first started washing ashore). Our second day in town we drove to Grand Isle to spend some time with my mother-in-law's (Miss Elaine) boyfriend (Mr. Pat). I am not going to dwell on how this beautiful ocean town has been so deeply affected but it is so sad. Normally bustling with tourists, Grand Isle was filled with BP clean up crews. No one can go on the beach. Not just the water but the beach as well. In order to walk on the beach you are required to decontaminate. DECONTAMINATE!!! Are you serious?? So sad and it will take years for things to get back to normal.

But not all was doom and gloom. We spent ample time stuffing our faces with the best Cajun fare. Shrimp dip, fried shrimp, shrimp creole, etc. It was fabulous. And while I feel somewhat like a Macy's Day parade float, I wouldn't miss a meal!! If you have never experienced true Cajun food you are missing out!!

Z's mom presented him with a new camera for all his hard work passing his Microsoft exams. He was so surprised and, I believe, deeply moved. He spent most of the trip playing with his new toy. And as I had suspected is quite the photographer (note: all the pictures in the blog entry are taken care of Z and he has gladly agreed to be my exclusive blog photographer (I know as if he had a choice ;)).

As much fun as we had something changed for us on this trip to the Bayou. We spent a good part of the trip realizing how sad we would be to go home. Z, especially, had a hard time this trip. Growing up is hard. Realizing how important it is to have a connection to your roots is even harder when you leave 600 miles away. My immediate family is in TN. I take this for granted when it comes to Z and his family. My family is so loving and accepting of Z that I forget that it is not the same as having your own family close by. So our new goal is to make a trip home ever 6 months at least. Life is so fleeting. You forget how fast people change and grow older when you see them only once a year. You leave and think time stands still while you are gone. But it does not.

Not to be a total downer, we love our little life in TN. We have so many lovely friends and family to make the time in between trips busy and happy!

Up Next...

Office redo!! I know it is about time. First up family work day to clear clutter, re-arrange furniture and spackle holes!!

Blast From The Past...

2010-08-04T10:20:00.000-05:00

But not really cause this is my work phone...

Am I mistaken or did I just enter a time warp? I mean the only thing missing from this picture is a oversized clip on earring. This phone has me feeling like Alexis Carrington from Falcon Crest. Anywhoo just a little food for thought on this hump day.

P.S For all concerned parties, this blog took me ten minutes and I was on my lunch break clocked out :)!!!

Countdown to Vacation!!

2010-07-25T09:48:00.000-05:00

It is Sunday again! Time to prepare for the week. But this week is special because I am going on VACATION!! I leave Tuesday night to visit Z's family in Louisiana. And if you think the heat is bad in TN try Southern Louisiana!! But, honestly, it is one of my favorite places to visit. Whether it is simply that it is Z's home town or that the bayou relaxes me, I love it!!

Coming up on BecomingJane:

1.) Goal Check In (How Z and I are keeping ourselves focused on the future.)
2.) Rebirth of JODesigns (I am not sure if you know this but I used to be a jewelry designer a lifetime ago! ;))
3.) Pennyisms (A collection of posters inspired by the phrases of my mother and grandmother.)
4.) My Fashionable Friends (I am constantly inspired by my friends fashion creative process...the title is "Chic and Thrifty")

Until then I hope everyone is having a great albeit hot July!!

"Could be lunch meat, could be peaches..."

2010-07-18T17:19:00.001-05:00

"Who knows? Just cause it's garbage don't mean it don't taste good."-John Travolta in Looks Who's Talking. Personally it was the only good movie in the series. But I digress...I am making turkey meatloaf for dinner and who knows!! Seems like an oxymoron to me but we shall see! Anyone care to share recipes for healthier versions of their favorite comfort food?

A Penny Saved...A Penny Earned.

2010-07-12T19:35:00.000-05:00

Back from vacation and ready to go!! This week Z and I are trying to accomplish one goal...to not spend a dime except for gas and our car payment. I am shaking with fear. I am sure it will be easy for Z as he tends to be the rational spender in our little family. We have so many dreams and goals for our life together, with a little restraint now, I am sure we can achieve each one.

The most important aspect of achieving a goal is to break it down week by week. I know, I know, common sense. The hard part is the consistency and I am easily distracted. Now that I have written down my 2-5 year goals, I am in the process of breaking it down week by week. The only problem...I want to be at my five year goal yesterday!!!!! But I know the key to achieving each of my goals is day by day and week by week...before I know it I will be living my dream!

So up first we learn to save what we make and get rid of our debt!!

What are your best money saving tips? Do you clip coupons, reuse your paper towels ;), etc??

2010-07-05T22:59:00.000-05:00

It is late. There is no getting around this fact. I have work tomorrow and again there is no getting around this fact either. But the wheels are turning and I have some new work in progress. As I really have no idea if anyone reads this blog anymore, I may be talking to myself. However this is something I am very familiar with and therefore I am not jaded by it at all!! If there is anyone stopping by periodically please check back in a day or so and I will post some pics of my new work. A little tidbit of info is that it is not jewelry! Happy 4th ish to you...any of you ;)!

My Weekend (so far) in Photos...

2010-07-03T17:48:00.000-05:00

Happy Independence Weekend fellow bloggers and fellow blog readers!! I hope this holiday weekend is finding you relaxed, refreshed, and revived!! I know I am and it is only Saturday afternoon. It has already been a whirlwind of a last couple of days. The madness started Thursday night with my metal sculpture class and ended this afternoon with a beautiful wedding. Here are some photos care of my blackberry (so please excuse the graining pics ;))!!

Back to school! Oh how I long to be a full time art student at Watkins!!

I love the smells, the art, the construction (Watkins is currently being renovated). I am usually there about an hour early. I love sitting in the hallway sketching or blogging. It makes me feel like I am a student again!

An example of the amazing student work that adorns most of the walls.

My teacher Matt Alexander letting some of us give the torch a try!!

Friday night was the Sounds game with my extended family in town from Chicago and Egypt! I am not normally a fan of baseball but the universe was on my side as it was a cool 81 degrees.

Of course any of you that know me know that I am completely obsessed with my baby girl niece, Edith Jane. So I decided to put together a EJC compilation from the Sounds game.

A girl after my own heart!! Gotta to get her obsessed with the jewels at an early age to insure she will want to spent time with her "An Nane" making jewelry for years to come!!

It was clear she was losing her patience at this point. Can't you tell from the glassy look in her eyes?

Had to throw in one of me and my babes!!

Most of Saturday was spent at our friends Whit and Meg's wedding at Saint Mary of the Seven Sorrows downtown followed by an absolutely fabulous reception at the Wildhorse Saloon. Much love and congrats to both Meg and Whit!!

2010-06-26T22:42:00.000-05:00

How do you turn a new leaf, start a new chapter, teach an old dog new tricks?? I am ever stuck in a rut. I would give 10 thousand fig newtons to be able to lead by example when it comes to my own health and wellness. There is this god awful Schizophrenic voice inside my head that is constantly screaming at me, "Give up up now princess it can't be done. You are too old and too unabashedly unafraid of Chinese buffets!!" I mean seriously what god do I need to bride to catch a break around here. Is there no god of "your stomach is full now here is some pixie dust and now your head understands it"? Why couldn't my drug of choice been something I did not need to stay alive?? I hear great things about meth!!!

I kid, I kid. I am just a dog chasing my tail it seems. I am sure the key is mind over matter but my addict mentality would rather be stuffed than cleared. Am I alone? I feel like some days I cannot relate to anyone. While my husband's metabolism is slow as molasses, his will power is of super hero strength!! I keep searching for mine (schizo voice, this is a lie don't believe her) but have yet to find it.

So this is what I am going to try this week,

I am reading Michael Pollan's In Defense of Food. As a wannabe recovering compulsive over eater, I have decided to submerse myself in healthy food literature. My hope is that as I gain more knowledge on the subject of healthy eating I will, in turn, be able to navigate my way to recovery.

On a much lighter note I did finish my goals.

Goals:

1week: wake up 45 min early every morning (did this once; yea me!!)

1month: complete my monogram short poster(pics to follow on completion of this one)

1year: be debt free (only house note)-currently working on this one!

5years: be in business for myself (I am currently working on breaking this one down week by week. But it feels so good to have a direction!!)

Get it tight, get it right....

2010-06-16T20:09:00.000-05:00

Do you set goals for yourself? I always set goals in my mind. I have never been one to write them down and put them somewhere in order to be reminded of them on a daily basis. Therefore my goals tend to change, to be put on the back burner or to be forgotten all together. It is such a bum rush!! I live in a constant state of trying to reassess or focus my direction!! I need an intervention.

I started this blog for a variety of reasons. First and foremost it was my sort of awakening from the 30+ years I had been asleep (for details see my April 22, 2008 entry). Secondly, it serves as a reminder of all of my dreams and goals. If I am being honest this blog has evolved into the latter. I am scattered, always have been always will be but a blog is a wonderful way to keep track (or in my case keep it in check).

My current goal for the week of 6/14/10: sit down and plan out a 1 week, 1 month, 1 year, 5 year plan for myself and put it in a place where I will be reminded of it on a daily basis. I know, I know, I don't know any other way to be but to the extreme.

On a side note: my niece, Bethany, from Louisiana is coming for a visit! Z and I couldn't be more excited. We are hoping to swim, get our nails done, and maybe visit The Frist. She also told me last night as a thank you for having her she wants to cook Z and I a dinner. I am super excited about this part as she is a very talented cook!! I will post pics of her visit next week! Until then stay cool and motivated!! Or just find some time to relax and have a to have a drink or two!!

FYI I freshened up my blogroll! Check some of the new ones out!!

Sent from my iPad =)

Hello Again...

2010-06-06T18:43:00.000-05:00

I have not felt like blogging for a while. Part of the reason is that I can't seem finish any of the blogs I start. I am distracted. There are a few things going on. Work takes up a LOT of time. The crisis in the gulf has left my husband and I pretty down. The Grand Isle you keep hearing about on the news is 33 miles from where Z grew up. It is devastating in so many ways to so many people. Z and I also took some time away from our busy schedules to reconnect with a trip to the ATL/IKEA!! We have also been doing some little projects around the house (thanks to our recent mini vaca ;)). If you are a Facebook friend then you have read of our afternoon furniture assembly adventure and how it became a true test of patience within our marriage ;)! So without further ado here is our new IKEA dresser from start to finish!

In the end we knew we had succeeded as we still wanted to be in the same room with each other!! On to the next project...Kitchen Storage Solutions!!

2010-05-27T18:38:00.000-05:00

Just thought I would share some harsh reality about this tragic situation in the gulf.

2010 Annual Tour of Homes: The Villages of Old Hickory

2010-05-16T17:53:00.000-05:00

This image is borrowed from Nostalgiaville

This weekend was the annual tour of homes in the neighborhood I live in: The Villages of Old Hickory. It really gave me such an appreciation for the city I call home. I was unsure what I was walking into but each house was so unique and creative. I think of homes tours as being stuffy and traditional. Instead the lovely home owners who offered up their homes for us voyeurs were totally opposite. Each home owner had such lovely points of view. While I did not take my camera on the tour (it was not so much a take pictures kind of tour as it was a stop and gawk kind of thing), I did want to share some of the lovely and available houses from my wonderful neighborhood.

1000 Birdsall St.

1301 Overton St.

811 Jones St.This last one is the home of a neighbor friend of mine who subsequently is also an extremely talented photographer. See her work at http://maryclairecrow.com

I know I blog a lot about my neighborhood but I cannot help it we are having a love affair. With its sidewalks and neighborhood restaurant/marina, I couldn't be more in love!! You can find info on all three houses up for sale on RealTRACS

And then the flood came...

2010-05-07T17:45:00.000-05:00

I am sorry for the delay between blogs. For a while I had nothing interesting to report and then the flood came. We have been dealing with our own damage from the very destructive TN flood of 2010. We have also been helping others, with more substantial damage, start to repair. The flooding in and around the Nashville area has proven to be quite devastating. My sister's neighborhood looks like a war zone. Some people lost everything. Of course, it is just stuff but when it is your stuff it is very hard to remember that. We had about three feet of water in our crawl space. This does not seem like a huge deal compared to some of the areas of Nashville I have seen but $700 dollars later it is big enough.

It is somewhat irritating to see so little coverage on the national news level. I mean with the ten minutes it received on the national news you would have thought a tiny creek over flowed rather a gigantic river, all it's creeks as well as all it's dry river beds exploded into subdivision after subdivision. Are we hurt that we received so little coverage? Yes. Will we get over it? Yes. It is obvious why we did not make the news: no looting, no gunfire, no one wading through waist deep water with a flat screen tv in tow. Instead there was a rush to rally the troops. If anything we had an over abundance of volunteers. It is a testament to the type of city we live in. Would we welcome help from the outside world? Of course! Can we make it through helping ourselves? You better believe it. At the end of the day, what really defines the heart of a city is how they handle a crisis. And did we ever HANDLE A CRISIS!!!

So we help rebuild the lives of our family, friends, and neighbors. It will take time. It will take patience. In the end though, no one can every say we didn't take of ourselves.

I am sorry for the quality of these photos but they were taken from my blackberry. This is my sister's neighborhood about three days after the flood water receeded.

How old is too old to go back to school? And will they refer to me as the old lady in their study group?

2010-04-28T20:41:00.000-05:00

I am weird, are you? There was a very distinct period in my mid 20's when I realized knowing this about myself gave me an incredible amount of self confidence. I decided instead of trying to change myself I was going to like the complex, sensitive, character voice for every occasion, wannabe gangster girl inside me. I realized all of my weird idiosyncrasies not only made me unique but also made me extremely valid. By owning this I came into my own.

I have been reflecting a lot this week as I am preparing to return to school. It takes a fair amount of self reflection to become the old lady at college. But starting June 1st that will be me!! Wish me luck I know I will need it. Secretly though, I cannot wait to go school supply shopping!!

Sleeping under the veil of his Darth Vader mask...

2010-04-20T21:05:00.001-05:00

Sorry I have been MIA. I forgot my stupid password for my blog!! Tells you just a little bit about the kind of week I am having. Hi. Are you as tired as I am?

I have felt so run down lately. It is strange because I know I am getting enough sleep. But is it good sleep that is the question? When I had my sleep study done to determine if I had Narcolepsy they told me I had Sleep Apnea as well. The stubborn person that I am refused to believe I needed a CPAP machine. Now I am beginning to wonder if I really did need it. Whatever stupid doctors just cause your robot machines say I have it doesn't make it so...ya right!!!. Anyway, in order to get my CPAP I would have to do another sleep study and I am none too thrilled about that!!.

My sleep study was a nightmare. I tossed and turned all night begging sleep to take over. Not only was it not my bed but I had wires attached to my head and chest. Adding fuel to the fire were the cameras watching and listening to my every move!! Finally having sighed dramatically for the 70th time (I am always trying to make a point by sighing...a little passive I know but whatever wroks :p), a voice came over the speaker, "What's wrong Jane?" What's wrong???????????????? "What is wrong with you perv," I wanted to shout!! Why are you getting paid to watch me sleep? It's creepy!! "Can I watch tv," I whispered to the creepy perv talking to me over the loud speaker. "No," she replied.

Anyway, you get the point! The whole thing was like someone chewing crunchy cereal in my ear!! So until I am ready to come face to speaker with my sleep study perv I will continue to suffer. I will fall asleepish listening to my hubby sleeping peacefully under the veil of his Darth Vader CPAP mask. Good times!!

Inspirational Women

2010-04-15T16:40:00.000-05:00

I try to constantly surround myself with inspirational women. Some of them are mothering, some of them are bitches with attitudes, and some of them are simply living their dreams. Whatever the case I am always inspired by their personal stories.

Today I had coffee with a very old friend of mine. We were very close friends a very long time ago but time and life took us in different directions. However, after all this time it felt very comfortable. I asked her to coffee because she is an Interior Designer with a lot of experience under her belt. She offered all kinds of wonderful advice as well as a homework assignment (although I am sure she had no idea she was giving an assignment out I am just that much of a dork dying for a new career path :))! She was an inspiration...a mother, a wife, a daughter, a business owner...a woman juggling it all (and juggling it very successfully I might add).

I am surrounded by so many woman like this because it moves me forward by showing me anything is possible in life. Of course some things come by way of sacrifice but most things come with the reward of true internal happiness. This post is for all the women who inspire me on a daily basis. Please know you all inspire me in so many different ways and I see how hard you all work to be happy, enlightened, confident, interesting, interested, mommy, wife, lover, friend, daughter. The list is endless but remember it does not go unnoticed. It is difficult to be a woman for so many reasons but for those of you who at the end of the day find yourselves truly happy, thank you for all the positive energy.

FYI Don't hate I just typed this on my new iPad :)!

Springtime in Old Hickory

2010-04-11T19:56:00.000-05:00

What a glorious weekend!! The sun was out and it was not suffocatingly hot as of yet. This time of year is why we are lucky to live in this part of the country. Saturday I dedicated the day to making jewelry while Z (unfortunately) had to spend the morning working. However, Saturday night we took advantage of one weekend without plans and relaxed. Today was yet another beautiful day. Z and I enjoyed dinner down at the marina. It is nights like tonight that make me happy to be alive. I hope everyone is taking advantage of the weather. It is so VERY important in this over scheduled, over committed world we live in to take time to be still and appreciate.

And then there were three...

2010-04-03T05:15:00.000-05:00

That is right I said three...me, Z and Z's magic sleep machine. After close to 24 years of constant interrupted sleep, my husband slept like a baby. It actually ended up lulling me to sleep as well. The only down side is once that puppy is on he cannot talk. Those of you who know me well understand my distress as well as my bouts of pure joy. He cannot talk?!? He can only listen?!? I kid, I kid.

It was a strange night or was is it a short night? It is after all 5:20 on a Saturday morning and the only sound I hear, aside from the keyboard, is the gentle airflow of Z's CPAP. It will take some getting use to on my part. Z, however, is sleeping like a baby. The man hasn't had a decent night's sleep in over two decades...it must be amazing and I hope his dreams are in color.

I am actually a tad jealous. I know I have taken my issues with jealousy to a new low. But man what I would give for that kind of revitalizing sleep!! We shall see. I am sure this is the beginning of something life changing for Z and for that I am so happy. However I will miss our random "I can't sleep chats". Although I am positive he will not think twice about this loss during his newly found REM cycle ;)!!

That's it for now. Sweet REM cycles to you all! I am going to try to get lulled back to sleep for a couple of hours by that magic sleep machine we shall call HAL ;)!

Sleep machine says, "Thank you Jane. Is there anything I can do for you Jane?"

Champagne, Pineapple, and Yesterday's Pot Roast?

2010-03-21T11:59:00.000-05:00

Does one ever need an excuse for champagne before noon on a Sunday? Of the few things found in my fridge this rainy Sunday morning, champagne seemed the most appealing. Mixed with a little pineapple and pared with Friday night's pot roast, all seems right with the world. No one's bad attitude can touch me. So rain rain go away my champagne and pineapple will make it all okay ;)!!

Put It Down And Walk Away For Awhile

2010-03-19T10:35:00.000-05:00

Okay I think I will. I am feeling creatively stunted. I am putting one idea away for awhile and marinating on a new subject for the weekend.

When I was trying to decide what to do with my life in the latter years of my momentous college experience (we will give that sentence a wink, wink and a nudge, nudge for my cinema partner in crime Micki ;)) I would spend hours asking myself different questions. Questions like: "What do I want to do that would make me excited to get out of bed every morning?" or "What can I do that is both seemingly glamorous but also quietly creative?" If you know me well then you know that I am a bit out there. However, I choose to embrace it as the quality that makes me different. I'd like to think that by embracing it I come off as "normal" (normal meaning sane ;)). I guess you would call me a dreamer with realistic intentions. Long story even longer I found jewelry. It was a love affair in the beginning but currently a thorn in my side.

I love the jewelry making process but I am stunted. I am ignoring it for the weekend and focusing on something else. As I am sure this is part of every artist's creative journey I am fulling embracing it. This new embrace has left me feeling alert and fresh so I am sure I am doing something right!! Who knows what will come of it? It may lead to really great deals on spectacular gemstones or it may lead smack into my Spring collection. For today, it leads me to a wedding in the Great Smoky Mountains. I am thinking snow capped mountains at Christmas or possibly wildflowers and a running stream on the cusp of Spring. Stay tuned if you want and my everyday sanity may return...or not!!

Living In The Moment...

2010-03-16T20:44:00.001-05:00

It is so refreshing to surf the web and find yet another positive blogger out in cyberland. Someone not just blogging about their life, not just blogging about their goals but blogging about ways to achieve those life goals. If you are someone who enjoys following new and interesting blogs check out Emily-Lou at Always Pushing For ward! Her attention and focus to setting and keeping weekly goals is admirable!!

I am not afraid to say that I am a happy person. In the past I have hidden this aspect of myself for fear of rubbing the cynical ones the wrong way. I am a glass half full kind if gal. Blame it on the merry sunshine of a woman my mother is or the anything is possible kind of father I have. I don't care where it comes from I appreciate it. I want to try to be the best version of myself everyday. Some days I fall sort other days I soar above. Either way I am present in my life for better or worse.

Taking a cue from Emily-Lou here are my goals for the week...

-finish sketches for my Spring jewelry collection (both bridal as well as boutique)
-at least 2 5am workouts (nothing crazy...just a walk around the neighborhood)
-turn the dining room table from a dresser back into a table ;)!
-accomplish the task of preparing every meal I eat this week at HOME (NO RESTAURANTS)
-drink more H2O

What are you doing this week to live in the moment?

No I am not on a cruise! This pic is from my honeymoon but the water looked so good and I am in desperate need of a little sunshine! This is as close as I am going to get until May!!

Two Years And Counting!!

2010-03-10T11:13:00.000-06:00

Z and I just returned from a glorious weekend away in the mountains for our 2 year anniversary! It was so wonderful. There is nothing like a vacation away from your everyday reality. I was so desperate for a get-a-way!! If you are anywhere close to the Gatlinburg area think about a weekend trip to a cozy chalet. We stayed at Brother's Cove in Sevierville, TN (a less expensive alternative to actual Gatlinburg and only 20 minutes away!!).

My first introduction to Brother's Cove was for my bachelorette weekend almost three years ago. The prices are extremely reasonable. The cabins are spacious and modern. Z and I spent almost the entire trip watching the sun rise and set from the hot tub!! The only picture the website does not show you is of the cabins resting ominously on concrete platforms and metal posts!! Eek!! Imagine our stomachs as our car winded its way up the steep mountain road only to be greeted by a cabin hanging over the side!!!

I will admit the first night was rough for me. I woke up every time Z turned over screaming, "The house is falling forward. Did you feel that? I am not making this up. Can't you feel how the floor slopes?" First night aside I was finally able to relax and enjoy the breath taking view. It reminded both of us how important it is to get away every so often. It replenishes the soul. Everyone is more fun in VACATION MODE!!!!

Two years have flown by and I do try to cherish every moment. It all goes by so quickly. What this year will bring I have no idea but I plan to make the most of every minute!!

P.S. Arthur says he is still watching you!

Thinking outside the box...

2010-03-03T21:24:00.000-06:00

We live in a very old house. A 90 year old house to be exact. With the joy of owning an older home comes the need to be creative with your use of space (lots of charm; tiny closets). Because I am a design junkie, I am constantly making "improvements" to each room. I use the term improvements loosely. Most of these said "improvements" are really me trying to find a home for all our stuff.

Upon falling in love with my Raymond side tables from Target, I knew clutter was going to be an issue. Around the holidays I found these modern desk organizers at my favorite store for inexpensive gifts: TJMAXX!! It took me all of two minutes to decide these would be the perfect wall accessory for our bedroom. Almost three months later they are up and they are even more perfect than I imagined. It never hurts to think outside the box. Now I have my lovely side tables as well a place for my sketch pads, books, and magazines.

A Real Man

2010-02-25T14:48:00.001-06:00

I never had close male friends growing up. If I am being perfectly honest they scared the you know what out of me. Therefore I never knew how amazing a man could be. I was scared of them so I decided they were all the stereotype had made them out to be. Selfish, egotistical, and narrow minded. I know harsh but I had many, many barriers up as to not get my feelings hurt. Hindsight is, of course, 20/20!!

Until the day I met my future husband, I had little faith in finding that someone who would get me better than I get me. In walks Zan P. Broussard a real life knight in shining armor. He is the unabashed romantic, football watching, best friend of my dreams. Today is a week shy of our two year anniversary and I wanted to celebrate the very true essence of a real man.

A Real Man

A real man will go to the grocery store and make dinner just because he wants to be helpful.
A real man will hold you when you cry without being asked to do so. He just knows and loves so deeply that he is confident it will calm the storm.
A real man knows that women are delicate as well as tough as nails.
A real man doesn't force you to be anything other than yourself.
A real man works hard to help you achieve your dreams and goals.
A real man is unafraid to share his secrets.
A real man does not have the answer all the time.
A real man is not afraid to admit the one above.
A real man is not afraid of you (much to my dismay ;p) and therefore doesn't let you get away with anything.
A real man does not come along everyday.
A real man must be loved and taken care of just the way you would want to be cared for.
A real man is delicate as well as tough as nails.

It takes courage and confidence to be A Real Man in this day and age. If you have one do not be afraid to tell him.

To my real man I say, "I love you beams more everyday we are together. I feel so blessed that we found each other and even more privileged that we get to journey through life together".

Detoxing!!!

2010-02-25T12:23:00.000-06:00

In an attempt to extend our lives by a few years I am on the hunt for non toxic cleaning supplies. I have seen the Seventh Generation products at Kroger. I am wondering if there are other products out there in order to compare. I know my sister and her husband use Shacklee Cleaning Supplies. However, they have to be purchased either from a rep or online. I would prefer a product that is more readily available.

The problem I have is that I am a Clorox bleach wipes and spray crazy person. To me it is not clean if I still have nose hairs when I am done or the lingering smell of chlorine hasn't altered the way the outside world smells for at least a few hours. Crazy right!! I just want to feel like it is really clean and sanitized. So in an effort to detoxify our home I am on the hunt!! Any suggestions? What have you tried that allows for a nice thorough clean while still being all natural. I have tried vinegar down my drain but I would like a product line for all my cleaning needs from windows to toilets!!

On a side note I have a smooth top ceramic stove top that is the bane of my existence!! I can never get it clean!!! Does anyone have an all natural product that keeps this type of stove top streak free?

I Heart This...

2010-02-20T17:04:00.000-06:00

Can someone tell my husband I HEART this? Pretty please! I want a pouf of my very own to sit on, rest my feet on, or just to look at!!! Thanks in advance for any angle you can work to make this mine x2!!

Sunshine Like Crack Makes Me Happy

2010-02-20T16:29:00.000-06:00

Okay maybe sunshine like chocolate makes me happy is a better way of saying it. However, it does not make as lovely of a title for my blog today!! The sun is out and it is finally above freezing!

It is really more like crack. People are coming out of the woodwork. Even recluses like Z and I were out up in it today!! It is invigorating and addictive. We hiked and I washed our lovely new Saturn even though my fingers were turning blue from the icy bucket of H2O.

I have decided nothing can get me down! That being said I am having to fight to ignore the news forecasting snow later this week. Instead I am soaking it all in!! Z and I are getting our plans underway for the stripes going up in our living room as well as our 2 year anniversary trip to beautiful downtown Gatlinburg!!!

Who knows how long it will last how are you making the most of it?

To Paint or Not To Paint...That is the question??

2010-02-11T21:38:00.001-06:00

This is the color of the wall in my family room. This is the color of the wall in my dining room. This is also the color of the wall in every single ever lasting room in my home. I am so freaking tired of this ever loving color!! When we moved in I was excited it seemed the perfect neutral backdrop for all my multicolored collectables. But almost two years later I am ready for a change but afraid to tackle painting myself. Here is direction I am thinking of going. (FYI the hubby knows nothing of this current brainstorm!!)

Any tips for creating clean paint lines?

Laissez Les Bon Temps Roulez!!!

2010-02-08T07:46:00.000-06:00

I will admit I cry over many different things. Some of these things are very silly like the time I was brought tears as the awards were being given out at a cheerleader competition on ESPN. That's right I said ESPN as in on TV. I know it's weird but that is me. Of course the normal occasions such as weddings and funerals can turn me into a blubbering fool as well. Last night it was a different situation...THE SAINTS WINNING THE SUPERBOWL!!! I know seems cheesy even to a professional mourner like me!

In 2008 I married a French Cajun born and raised on the bayou. If you have ever been to the bayou then you know what a deep rich lovely thing it is to be connected to a French Cajun. The Cajun roots run so deep. Deep into the earth bound by life and death. Colored rich by the stories passed down from generation to generation. I am sure my husband thinks me silly but that's ok. Secretly I know he is proud of the richness of his heritage. I appreciate being connected even if only through marriage.

So needless to say last night's win really got to me. My husband's family has been so excited. That is what you do if you are from the Bayou. You support and encourage the best in everyone especially when what's riding behind it is the faith and rebirth of a city. Therefore I cried. They were happy tears but overwhelming just the same. As my husband's family says, "Laissez Les Bon Temps Roulez"!!

Ding Dong the Dodge is Dead!!

2010-02-05T18:22:00.000-06:00

Well it is finally here the thing we knew was coming but doubted all the while...Zan's car is dead!! I know I am so very sad about it ;)! The end has come for the 1998 Dodge Stratus. I am little bummed as we were about 8 months away from being debt free (other than our home). But alas life has a funny way of redirecting you whether you are debt free or not! I have decided to go balls to the walls and get really pumped about the prospect of CAR SHOPPING. Zan, on the other hand, is taking a little longer to warm up.

As of 3pm today we were approved for our car loan at $3000 more than we wanted to spend. Only in America do they want you to purchase more than you can handle. That's all we need MORE STUFF and not enough income to pay for it!!! I am over this concept. I will admit I spent the better part of my 20's buying whatever I wanted. Now I am all about having less and enjoying life more. So without further ado here are the contenders...

The Saturn Vue: Even though Saturn is no longer, I still love this updated version of the Vue. It is sleek, sturdy and well below our max!! I had a Saturn SL2 and loved it. I know it is a reliable car for the money. Will it be difficult to find replacement parts?

The Nissan Murano: Z and I both agree that we love this but it is at the top of our budget. I have a Nissan currently and I love the way it drives.

The Chevy Equinox: I am not sure about Chevy's and therefore I am leery. But what do I know? It looks the same as The GMC Envoy. The Equinox is less expensive so it makes me want the more expensive Envoy. It that wrong ;)?

GMC Envoy: Simple, sturdy, good quality.

Buick Rendezvous: I know a lot of older people really love their Buick La Saber's but isn't that a good thing? I mean what senior citizen do you know that hasn't researched the poo out of their super safe tanker of a cruiser?? If the Le Saber was good enough for my grandparents then it should be good enough for Z and I!!

Which would you choose? Any advice about one brand vs. the other? WE NEED HELP!!!

MOO!!!

2010-02-03T08:16:00.001-06:00

They are here!! My oh-so-cute, oh-so-little, oh-so-lovely Moo cards!! If you are a small business owner Moo.com is the place to get unique business cards. "They", as my husband stated when he opened the perfect little box the cards arrived in, "are really small, babe". They are half the size of regular business cards and with fresh angles of my work affixed to the front of every card, they pack a punch while making quite the statement!!

My Aladdin Catalog Home

2010-01-31T12:54:00.000-06:00

I often wonder what the original kitchen looked like when my little 1920's Aladdin catalog home was built. I have found pictures of 1920's kitchens. They were not glamorous by today's standards strictly utilitarian. Nevertheless still the hub of the home. Here are some pics of 1920's kitchens but I still have trouble picturing any of these in my house!

We now have a very standard flipped kitchen with not trace of its original glory. I would love to find a great set of vintage cabinets and start renovating!

It is hard for me not to wonder about the history of our first home. I like thinking about the many Thanksgiving meals served in my dining room and the happy Christmas mornings. These stories, now 90 years in the making, lay dormant in my quiet plaster walls. I know our story and that is enough for now.

Anyone living in a piece of history? What are the stories hiding in your walls?

The Great Snow Storm of 2010

2010-01-29T22:15:00.000-06:00

Yes!! Finally!! We got it!! Beautiful, white, make you feel 7 again, SNOW!!. Not just a dusting but inches and inches of fluffy perfect flakes!! These pics were around 4pm. It has continued to snow and the coverage is dense! Z and I made snow angels. If they are not covered up I will post those pics tomorrow...they were pretty darn good for two 30 somethings a bit rusty on their snow play. It has been a good day. Work ended early and mother nature blessed us with a bit of the white stuff!

If you are from Nashvegas, post your perfect snowmen and snow angels!! Happy snow day!!

Polyvore.com

2010-01-28T20:41:00.000-06:00

It is cold out and the "supposed" snow is on it's way. I am relaxing after a long day and an even longer week. While I relax I am cyber re-decorating my living room. I am planning on taking some interior design courses in the fall and love being able to play with all the ideas in my head on polyvore.com.

We are lucky enough to have been given very nice hand-me-down furniture from my parents but the pillows and area rug have seen better days. For better or worse our home was freshly painted a very neutral shade of neutral. Not wanting to try my hand at painting we live with it and decorate around it!! How I long for wide horizontal stripes in two varying shades of neutral (dark neutral and an even darker neutral) from floor to ceiling. I do enjoy a good paint job. I think pillows will be all I get to splurge on for the time being but I love exploring different styles. I hope you enjoy the colors currently on the brain!!

Email me if you have a room in need of a fresh perspective and some cyber decorating!! I need to hone my skills.

Re-decorating my living room! by jewels1977 on Polyvore.com

I am obsessed with these prints from Crate and Barrel. I am crazy for anything Mid-century Modern (just ask my hubby about my dream for a moss green or slate grey MCM ranch). These prints are the best of both worlds: interesting subject matter in my own personal color palette!!

Day Three...Blah

2010-01-28T06:02:00.001-06:00

Blah. Did it. Blah. Did not want to get up this morning. Blah. It did feel good but not great. Blah. I am sure you are getting the just of this. Need morning words of encouragement because it was really hard to get up. But then again I did it so that says something...what's that I hear? Oh sure there you are endorphins thanks for joining me this morning. I am starting to get out of my oh-so-early morning funk! And scene.

DO NOT ADJUST YOUR SCREEN!!

2010-01-27T19:12:00.000-06:00

I repeat, DO NOT ADJUST YOUR SCREEN!!! You are reading it right there was no Day Three. I decided to take the day off. I know, I know a little early on to be playing that game with myself but at least I am being honest!! I am planning on the dreaded 5am tomorrow but until then my sore abs and creaking knees are thanking me!!

Anyway, I really wanted to blog about something my co-worker introduced me to today, Mint.com. I know everyone has their own way of keeping track of finances but this site goes one step further. On top of being user friendly and just plain pretty, it updates you via email when you are about to go over your set budget!! If you are trying to save, budget and/or pay off debt go check it out!! Until tomorrow happy Wednesday!

Those of you in Nashvegas, snow...really come on!! I don't buy it til I see it!!

Day Two

2010-01-26T06:05:00.001-06:00

Well I am two for two!! I know, I know let's not get ahead of ourselves but I am sorry the endorphins are taking over this morning. I feel pumped. My body is slowly remembering what to do when forced to climb a staircase not just to lay it's self down and beg for a back rub ;)!!

For the time being I am setting small goals as exercise and I have never been bosom buddies. I have always loved it once I got a routine going but the initial 2-3 week hump can be brutal!! But today is today. And today I mother f***ing ROCKED IT!! I even broke a sweat. I would be way to embarrassed to admit the last time this broad broke a sweat. It was invigorating.

Today's goal was to drag myself out of bed...check. So I am striving for one more today...to make positive food decisions. I have left overs of baked chicken and salad so lunch is covered. I also have on hand cashews, craisins, and rice cakes. Dinner is in the slow cooker (I know don't laugh, there is something to this plan-of-attack concept).

So until (hopefully) tomorrow, what are your best healthy eating tips?

A New Day.

2010-01-25T06:03:00.000-06:00

Well, well, well...it is 6:03am on a MONDAY and I am awake. Not only awake but I have successfully picked my tired a$$ out of bed and worked out!! I am not talking about begrudgingly waking up only to drag my bloated comatose body down the stairs. I mean I got out of bed, went downstairs, stretched my creaking bones and did PILATES!! And do you know what? I had forgotten what my almost 5 years working at a pilates studio had done for me...made me love it.

I have gotten so stiff and heavy in the last couple of years. Never wanting to admit this to myself, I just kept ignoring the warning signs. I could see could see the changes in the mirror but I ignored it. I think I became desensitized to my own reflection. On a lighter note (no pun intended) slowly but surely my body is remembering how wonderful exercise can feel.

Everyday is a struggle for me. Everyday it will get easier I know that it is just admitting to myself how little respect I have had for my health over the last ten years. It can be depressing but I guess knowing if half the battle.

I think about things like being able to go for a hike without getting winded to find inspiration. Hiking to a peak and finding a view that take your breath away. I miss that type of beauty in my life. My new healthy goal for this week is to take a hike on Saturday.

Do you set small goals every week? What are some of yours?

January Blues :(

2010-01-19T14:06:00.000-06:00

How do you get yourself out of a funk? I feel like I have been flying so high lately and then all of the sudden everything went bleak. Is it the after the holiday blues? How about a lack of sunshine? Maybe it is just plain old January? Regardless I need to push through in a bad way!!

I have so many stupid adult responsibilities that I can not leave hanging out to dry! On top of this funk I have been trying to slowly reintroduce (eek, dare I say the word) EXERCISE back into my daily routine. The funny thing is I love to exercise once my body stops rebelling from the initial shock of it all. But I need some support!!

How do you get yourself out of the January blues? Let's inspire each other!! It is, after all a new year and the best time to re-access all your personal goals.

Dreaming...

2010-01-17T16:22:00.000-06:00

Ok I will admit I stole this idea from a decor sight...Making it lovely. I would like to add these under our living room side tables as catch alls...minus the strap, of course!!

I am kind of thinking this is the perfect mirror for our downstairs half bath.

These ice bullets are just too fun!!

These agate coasters would be a perfect addition to our living room.

I am not sure what I would use these for as I do not scrapbook but maybe some cool artwork?

Stuff I want now!! Stuff I want now!! Stuff I want now!!

P.S. Did I mention this is all stuff I want now :p!!!!

Happy January!!

Happy New Blah!!

2010-01-04T18:13:00.000-06:00

Well hello 2010 thank you for giving me a nasty nasty stomach bug!! Also for making it very difficult to not only NOT be depressed about my sad drooping x-mas tree still standing petrified in the corner of my family room but also for making it that much harder to get back on schedule. I recently heard someone say that whatever you are doing on new year's eve is an indicator of the kind of year you will have. Well I had a great new years but this start to the year has been anything but fun. I remember in the hours before this stomach thing reared it's ugly head thinking about all the positive things I was going to accomplish this week. Well that is down the drain!! Although I did clean up this afternoon as well as rearrange my family room. So I guess that is something.

Update:

The first part of this blog was written a week ago and since then the house is again a disaster but THE TREE IS DOWN!! My only excuses are a pulled muscle in my back and work, work, work!! My new goal is to get some Valentine's Day creations out. I guess that being said I also need to find some FOCUS in order to get the goal of V-day jewelry accomplished. Wish me luck!!

What is the strangest New Year's resolution you've ever made and kept?

Ceremony and Ritual

2009-12-19T14:58:00.000-06:00

I love the idea of how grand and detail oriented life once was. Afternoon tea and summer's at the sea (I should note I am a huge fan of any British period drama...go figure). Anyway, I realize that I do have some amount of ceremony and ritual in my life. Mine involves monthly breakfast and pedicures with Ansley and Dana. It is bit ceremonious and ritualistic but on a much more realistic scale then spending my entire summer on the southern coast of England (a girl can dream). We all order the same breakfast each time and generally stick to the same toenail color. We talk about gossip, personal issues and make plans for the future. For that time once a month on a Saturday morning we create this lovely little moment that allows us to relax, reflect, and rejuvenate!! Thank you ladies for the ritual we have created.

Etsy Gift Guide #2: Fall Fashions For You And Your Home!!

2009-08-16T08:46:00.000-05:00

It is almost the end of August which means two things: my 32nd birthday (wow!) is right around the corner and the summer is coming to an end. I am somewhat sad to see the summer's end. It has been so fun-filled with weekend trips, weddings, and cookouts! However with the end of summer comes the beginning of my favorite time of year...Fall!! There is nothing more inspiring or as invigorating than a cool fall night. In honor of the pending cool nights I have prepared a new Etsy Favorites list. A few little somethings for whatever or wherever this changing of seasons finds you! Whether it be back to school (I wish), starting a new job, or simply changing from your summer to your fall bedding this list will have something to inspire you!!

Something green...

Dress up your office with this cute little succulent in milk glass by monkeysalwayslook for $18.

Is your style a bit more organic? Try dressing up your home or work space with this ultra modern terrarium from greenbier. At $28 it makes the perfect gift!

Organization Station...

Looking for a fab way to charge that ipod or iphone? Try this natural solution. This beautifully carved wood charging station is the perfect storage/power station! Made by woodtec for $62.

For the mommy in all of us! Whether your baby is 3 or 30 this adorable chore chart is sure to add a little fun to the humdrum of daily chores! Made by Abbie's House for $15.

This perfect pad is ideal for a gal on the go! Jot it down, slip it in your bag, and get it done!! The folks over at Watermelon Wishes specialize in custom bag and accessories to fit all your organizational needs. $18.95

Bits and baubles to doll up the house...

This vintage set of pitchers is a steal at just $5. The color combo of yellow and white will add a dash of sunshine to any area of your home. Pop over to nebrjunk456's for more cute vintage finds.

These mid-century coasters are my personal fav! I love the retro funky vibe they provide. Funk on over to Merit Market and browse their large selection of oh-so-cute accessories for all your every frosty beverage needs! $10

The Perfect Bag...

This cute leather bag will carry you from summer to fall and on into winter! You can find it along with other accessories over at EKAA. $90

Are you a little office girl without the perfect bag for all your projects? I think this is the perfect accessory if you are in need of a brief case that is vintage, leather and stylish! I could not believe the price at $45 it is a steal. Run don't walk over to era vague to pick up this vintage beauty.

Last but not least...

I could not resist posting this little guy (so cute!!). Perfect for yourself or as a gift. These cute little animal key chains make the perfect accessory for any key ring! Pick out your favorite animal at LeatherPrince for around $17.50 each!

I hope this summer has left you will great memories or at least one good story ;)!! I am working on some new designs and will post them very soon! So happy end of summer to you! Please don't hesitate to post your Etsy finds in the comments section!

2009-06-11T12:36:00.000-05:00

Hi! Is anybody out there? I have two days off!! Two whole days to realize how many aspects of my life I have been neglecting because of work. My hubby, my home, my jewelry, MYSELF(need to go to the doctor concerning a very suspicious mole EEK!!), etc. I will say as stressful as my job is I am enjoying the challenge. But I am not complaining about some unexpected down time! Ansley and I are throwing a couples shower this weekend for D-Knight and Tad! I am going to us the time off to prepare!! I love weddings!! I wish Zan and I were just getting in the car to head to New Orleans for our wedding! Anywhoo!! Off to the store. Hope everyone is well out in cyberland!!!

My current obsession:

2009-05-13T20:17:00.000-05:00

I AM GOING ON VACATION!! I cannot wait! It has been almost a year and a half. It is a girls weekend for one of my best friend's in the whole world, D-Knight! Bachlorette weekend in Durham!! I cannot reveal all our plans tonight as D is unaware of the real plans for the weekend! I hope this post finds everyone well! I will be posting new jewelry when I return!!

2009-04-21T21:54:00.000-05:00

The time has come all you lovely cyberbunnies for The Walden Artisan Market. I know I said I was going to be there last time but as most of you know I kind of lost it right before that show. So if you are in the Nashville area this weekend stop by and say hi! This will be the largest market to date! I am working my fingers to the bone to get ready so we shall see. Between working all week and forcing creativity only time will tell how prepared I will be!

Quick question: What is your best strategy for last minute prep on a big project??

2009-04-19T18:44:00.000-05:00

Working, working, working!! Pictures to follow. What are you up to today??

2009-04-03T03:36:00.000-05:00

It is 3:30 am and I am awake. Luckily I have the day off tomorrow but my current game plan is to clean, clean, and clean!! I have my grocery list floating around in my head. It is filled with healthy goods for Z and me plus rubber gloves and a toilet wand!! Also in my head this early early morning is my perfect plan of attack for today's Spring cleaning. However, the fact that I am awake at 3 am does not bode well.

I mean really, for those of you with a full time job outside the home, who has time to keep a clean house? IT IS EXHAUSTING!! But it is either figure out a game plan or live in filth. And believe me I have been living the latter for well over a month and it is time for a game plan!!! My current game plan consists of bright yellow rubber gloves and an attitude adjustment ;)!! Spring is in the air (well I mean the severe storms have arrived indicating that Spring is on it's way) and my house needs some attention. Man I am optimistic in the early cracks of dawn! We shall see how the day unfolds.

How many of you Spring clean? What is your personal motivation?

Stress Management????

2009-03-31T21:22:00.000-05:00

Well I have just royally f***ed up my sleep pattern for the evening by falling asleep after work. Now I am totally awake and 5:15am is looming!! My main goal for this particular blog is to get some advice. I have now been working my new job for a little over a month and I AM EXHAUSTED, both mentally and physically!! I am trying to leave work at work so I am not bringing that added stress into my home life. But I am not sure how to do that.

Aside from being too tired to buy groceries or cook dinner, (many many thanks to my lovely husband for keeping us watered and fed!!) I have also fully neglected my jewelry. I am starting to feel like I don't even care about it. It is enough for me to feel prepared to make it through a whole day of work! I know I can use some good old fashioned exercise but how do I bring back my creative energy without feeling like I am forcing it?

Any suggestions for staying balanced that you use in your own life?

No time!!!

2009-03-24T21:34:00.000-05:00

Dear Blog,

I miss you. I miss the days of pondering what to write. Now I have little time to chat. Please forgive I will be back soon. Between work and the Walden Market this weekend I am swamped. But I love and miss and will talk soon!!! If you are in the Nashville area this weekend join us!!

Sincerely,

2009-03-08T14:19:00.001-05:00

I have been back to work for two full weeks. Other than having absolutely no time for anything else in my life due to complete and total fatigue it has been okay. There has been only one full-on breakdown. I tried so hard to wait until the end of the day to lose it but instead I burst into tears in front of two of my co-workers and found myself sitting on the bathroom floor. What can I say? It is a real job and I am getting paid pretty good money. I think, therefore, you have to take the good with the bad.

I hate that I haven't felt inspired to make anything new lately but I am sure I will get back into the groove in a couple of weeks. I have to remember why I am doing this! It is for Z and I. The only way we will ever be able to move forward in our lives is to be responsible now. And this is not a time to be out of work. So I spend the weekend preparing for the coming week. At least I know that every two weeks I am that much closer to being debt free!

Fun and Funky Handbags for Spring

2009-02-17T03:31:00.000-06:00

Spring is in the air! Okay maybe that is a stretch but we did have a few 70 degree days that gave me some inspiration! That is just like Nashville. What is the saying? If you don't like the weather wait five minutes! Anyway all the fresh spring-like air made me realize I need a new spring bag! I decided to check out all the new and funky designs Etsy has to offer for adornment this spring!

Check them out and rate your favorite bag in the comments section (mine is #2...I am a sucker for polka dots!).

#1

See the Drawing Room Purse No. 2 at the sea within. This fun and funky market bag is just right for saturday morning farmer's market! Check out this funky t-shirt for a fab match!

Check out the cafe bag at zelaya's! This oh-so-lovely wooden handled purse could go from sunday brunch to down the aisle! For a perfect compliment be sure to check out zelaya's simple and fresh leaf applique dress.

This Gathered Khaki Clutch can be found at sewn on a sunday. Together with this dress, the pair would be the perfect duet for a spring wedding!

I wouldn't feel like this was a proper blog unless I found soemthing fabulous to cover all those cute MacBooks out there! This fabulous MacBook Envelope for all you hip and trendy Mac users can be found at fernfiddlehead's!

I am a sucker for anything yellow and Yellow Graphic Bag from b.vann originals is the perfect spring/summer bag!

Remember to rate your fav!

2009-02-14T02:09:00.001-06:00

This week has been such a test to my will, my sanity, and my marriage. If the old saying is true that the first year of marriage is the hardest then Z and I are rapidly becoming a cliche! At first I thought someone or something was testing us. How strong are we as a couple? How do we cope as a couple? But then I realized the test was meant for me only. As someone who has long battled depression, I realize now that I married a really strong man who is of sound mind and judgement. His lessons, it seems, were learned early on while mine are just starting to present themselves (in rapid succession no less).

I have always felt I have lived a very blessed, very charmed life. About a month before we moved I was walking through our old apartment and had a quick thought that my charm or sense of security was about to end. Is that not a weird thing to just randomly come into your head? Don't get me wrong it has been a tough year altogether. It just hasn't felt like a real test until recently. I guess facing the reality of getting yet another job that would make most high schoolers proud has left me feeling pretty dismal. And even worse is what this reality says about my abilities as a small business owner. On top of all that I am quite sure my husband would indeed prefer an equal partner to a blood sucking bon bon eating disaster of a wife. So I feel...

I am scared.
I am anxious.
I am disappointed.
I am trying to remember to breathe.

And yet at the end of this royally bad week, tonight it is starting to make sense. The reality is that all of this anger and depression has nothing to do with my marriage or my lack of a stable income. It has to do with me growing up. It has to do with me becoming less of a daughter and more of a wife. So I feel uncertain and I feel scared. But you know what? I am certain that finally knowing why I am feeling scared and resistant to change is half the battle.

Thanks for reading I needed to get that out. Happy Valentine's Day to everyone. On that note I leave you with my favorite quote...

"If you live to be 100, I hope I live to be 100 minus 1 day, so I never have to live without you." -Winnie the Pooh

2009-02-12T00:40:00.000-06:00

pink

In honor of Valentine's Day (I guess also in honor of the current budget I am trying to adhere to) here is my tribute to all things pink on my wish list this year!!

http://www.bigchillfridge.com/

http://www.etsy.comshop.phpuser_id=5887873/http://www.anthropologie.com/

http://www.jimmychoo.com/

http://www.etsy.comshop.phpuser_id=6219577/

A Girl Can Dream!!

http://www.kranichs.comproductssimon-gearrings-761/

Here's hoping you all have a great Valentine's Day. Z and I are headed to a hockey game while trying to adhere to our current budget (thanks dad for the free tickets!!). Whether you are celebrating with your love or just celebrating yourself remember it is a day dedicated to those you love!! Do something nice for yourself and for those that mean the most to you!

What are you doing to celebrate yourself and those you love this Valentine's Day?

2009-02-11T13:09:00.000-06:00

As I stated in a previous post I have been toying with the idea of starting a new career. I am still trying to find temp. work but I have also been searching for something more permanent as well as more ME! My parents have been so wonderful by letting me guide them through all the decisions, both exciting and tedious, of their new home remodel. I AM LOVING IT!! I wanted to share with you my story board for their room. I will also be posting before and after photos once we are finished. By the way Dana, I will need great after photos for my portfolio! So I hope you enjoy! I am very proud of the space and my parents have been such a joy to work with. They have been both open and adventurous when it comes to their new space!

2009-02-10T14:21:00.000-06:00

At the recommendation of another blogger SuitableHustle, I started using an online gadget to create my story boards. So just for fun here is my idea for our family room. With a new full-time job looming I needed to lose myself in something creative and mindless! I will be following the family room with a dining room re-model as well as my parents story board in the new format. Enjoy! Also can anyone with a full-time job please leave me a comment with some time management tips. I feel like I am never going to have time let alone the inspiration for anything creative!! I hope you enjoy the room!

My Family Room - by jewels1977 on Polyvore.com

2009-02-05T20:23:00.000-06:00

I was surfing the Internet and found this article on anti-cancer foods. I just thought it was nice to find it all in one place. I added recipes to the more unique foods! Enjoy and feel free to add your own recipes in the comment section!! Happy Health in 2009!

Top Ten Anti-Cancer Foods

1.)Turmeric

Thai Grilled Chicken with Sweet Chile Dipping Sauce

INGREDIENTS (Nutrition)
1/2 cup coconut milk
2 tablespoons fish sauce
2 tablespoons minced garlic
2 tablespoons chopped cilantro
1 teaspoon ground turmeric
1 teaspoon curry powder
1/2 teaspoon white pepper
1/2 (3 pound) chicken, cut into pieces
6 tablespoons rice vinegar
4 tablespoons water
4 tablespoons white sugar
1 teaspoon minced garlic
1/2 teaspoon minced bird's eye chili
1/4 teaspoon salt

DIRECTIONS
a.In a shallow dish, mix together the coconut milk, fish sauce, 2 tablespoons minced garlic, cilantro, turmeric, curry powder, and white pepper. Add chicken, and turn to coat. Cover, and refrigerate for 4 hours or overnight.

b.Preheat grill for high heat.

c.In a saucepan, combine vinegar, water, sugar, 1 teaspoon minced garlic, bird's eye chili, and salt; bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, and simmer until liquid is reduced, about 5 minutes. Stir sauce from time to time. Remove from heat and allow to cool before use.

d.Lightly oil grill grate. Discard marinade, and place chicken on the grill. Cook for 10 minutes per side, or until slightly charred and juices run clear. Brush with sauce before serving. Serve remaining sauce on the side for dipping

2.)Blueberries, Acai Berries, Raspberries, and Cranberries

Antioxidant Smoothie
1 cup frozen blueberries
1 cup frozen raspberries
1 cup acai berry juice (such as Bom Dia Acai Berry with Cacao)
1/2 cup nonfat vanilla yogurt (such as Stonyfield)
1 Tbsp. unsweetened dark chocolate cocoa powder

Combine all ingredients in a regular or Vita Mix blender. Mix until smooth

3.)Green Tea (two cups a day)

4.)Garlic (some experts also recommend waiting 15 minutes between peeling and chopping the garlic to get the full effects of the active compounds.)

5.)Broccoli and Cabbage (British researchers made headlines last year with a study that showed that men with early signs of developing prostate cancer prevented tumor growth by eating broccoli four times a week. Other studies have shown anti-cancer benefits from eating cabbage, brussels sprouts, and other cruciferous vegetables.)

6.)Onions and Leeks (According to the National Institutes of Health, studies of people from Southern Europe who eat a diet high in garlic and onions show a direct relationship between high consumption of "allium" vegetables (all types of garlic, onions, and leeks) and reduced risk of many common cancers.)

7.)Tomatoes

8.)Soy (To get the anti-cancer benefits of soy, you need to consume about 50 grams per day of the whole food, such as raw fresh soybeans, known as edamame, dry roasted soybeans, or tofu.)

9.)Red Wine

10.)Watercress and Spinach (According to researchers in Ireland, who released studies in the past two years showing that eating watercress everyday can prevent the DNA damage that leads to cancer.)

The Importance of Crossing Your T's

2009-02-05T11:01:00.000-06:00

I have learned a couple of things about myself as of late. 1) I do not fully cross my t's and 2) I always write a title before I know what I am going to write about. Are those not two very weird things? The non crossing of t's, I am told, means I have trouble following through as well as the inability to complete the tasks I start. This could be why I have about 15 unfinished blogs. The title before subject is probably related to the "t" thing! I need a lesson in staying focused. I think it must be a trait associated with being creative, this lack of focus. At any given moment I have about 5 things I am trying to figure out and finish. My question to the universe is this, "Am I capable of changing the things that keep me from moving forward?"

Recently I have been exploring a new career path. And I am filled with such old school anxiety. I am afraid but excited. What if I forget to cross my t's?

What are your best tips for staying focused?

Slowly Turning My House Into A Home

2009-02-04T14:39:00.000-06:00

I am one of those people who likes to do nothing. I enjoy playing Internet scrabble while watching House Hunters. It is rapidly becoming a problem. That being said it will be no surprise when I tell you I just hung pictures in the house I have lived in for over 5 months. I don't know why I put things off and it is a habit I am rapidly trying to break. Looking at my little entry way message/keys/cell phone charging station I feel so inspired to turn the rest of my house into a home before I go back to work. I hope you enjoy the pics of my finished entry way. Next up installing my coat rack and therefore finally removing all the coats/sweaters/bags from my banister!! Could it be that organization is like a drug? Or is it that I am an addict looking for my next fix?

Our Newly Organized Entryway!

(A little Rock Band never hurt anybody!)

(And finally a place for our "B" collection. My mother would be so proud!!)

Next Up: The Coat Rack!!

What is your best tip for staying organized?

I have been tagged!! First time and so exciting!!

2009-01-31T21:18:00.000-06:00

I've been tagged by Wires n Pliers to list 8 random things about myself. For me just being tagged is the most exciting part!! So here goes!!

1.) I think I know everything but am constantly reminded that I really don't ;)!

2.) I speak to my two boy cats as if they are humans.

3.) I was lucky enough to marry my true love and we met on match.com!

4.) I hope to one day make large scale metal art.

5.) I am obsessed with http://www.stumbleupon.com/ (if you don't know it, get it now!).

6.) I have the sleep disorder narcolepsy (and no I do not fall asleep at the drop of a hat...it is more like the drop of a bubble).

7.) I am, for better or worse, a highly sensitive person.

8.) I love love love British period films.

I now pass the tag onto these fellow bloggers have fun and message me when you are done!

http://awellsworld.blogspot.com/
http://femmefare.blogspot.com/
http://captainhambone.typepad.com/
http://www.amandaconley.blogspot.com/
http://www.pinkcupcakevintage.blogspot.com/

Back in the Saddle Again...

2009-01-28T19:09:00.000-06:00

Well, it is official I go for my first interview for a new job tomorrow (sale and customer relations). It is nothing to write home about but that is my own fault. I have a list of regrets relating to my lack of a career path a mile long. If I sit and think about it I spiral so I choose to ignore it! I am on my way back into corporate America with nothing but a smile and half-a**ed resume!! Go ME!!

I have to keep the greater good in mind...PAYING OFF OUR DEBT. The faster Zan and I get our finances under control the closer I am to being able to make and sell jewelry full time!

Anyway, what are your best tips for a successful interview?

To be loved

2009-01-28T01:26:00.000-06:00

I am blessed. As I sit on my couch tonight surfing the Internet, I realize how lucky I am to be surrounded by so much love. I have been so down lately. It is about stupid things like finally getting my new house organized and catching up with the laundry. It all seems so important in the moment. Plus I have this really bad habit of becoming paralyzed when there is too much on my plate. I realize that I am the only one who can change the things that are keeping me down. I am not starving...I am not lonely...I am not freezing...I am loved. That is a truly amazing thing. It is not always easy to remember this but I am glad tonight it seems the easiest task on my ever increasing "to do" list.

Next up finding a job while at the same time keeping a smile on my face! Easier said then done I think.

How do you stay focused on the positive?

New Year's Resolutions!

2009-01-06T11:21:00.000-06:00

I never take my New Year's resolutions to heart. I never hold myself accountable for any changes I want to make. If I go into a depressive non motivated period I always let myself off the hook for anything and everything. Maybe it is just my own personal survival mode but ENOUGH IS ENOUGH!!!! I keep wondering, "How old I am going to be when it finally clicks." I am so sick of wondering, so sick of waiting for my life to change for the better. I know again I am putting so much pressure on myself but I think I may be finally old enough!!!

My New Year's resolution is to live in the now. I understand now how fleeting time can be. Of course there are a million and one things to get done everyday! This resolution is about finding a way to handle all those things in a way that doesn't send me into a frozen couch potato coma. A coma that when I wake has me saying where did the time go?

What is your New Year's resolution?

The After Christmas Blues

2008-12-29T08:17:00.000-06:00

Every year I tell myself I am not going to get down after Christmas. Every year I try to think of ways to be excited as I usher in a new year but alas it never works. I am that crazy Christmas lady who forgets every year that life does go on after Christmas. It isn't just the presents and decorations anymore either...it has now become the friends and family that I miss.

I miss the way people behave during the Christmas holiday. My friends and family seem to be so much more relaxed and easy going. Everyone has time to linger around the dining room table or chat a little longer at Starbucks. These are a few of the reasons Christmas time is even more special than it was when I was a child. Gone are the days of waiting for that new Barbie Dream Cottage or the latest NKOTB album. What has replaced it is a thousand times more valuable.

As I get older I realize how important my friends and family are to me. I feel blessed to have so many wonderfully supportive people in my life. Christmas reminds me of this every year. So maybe this year I will try to let that feeling lift my after Christmas blues as well as help usher in a new year.

How do you get over the after Christmas blues? What are you most looking forward to in 2009?

2008-12-14T21:01:00.000-06:00

I am so very proud to post pics of my new neice! Never in a million years did I think I could fall so totally in love with another person's child! As her godmother I feel so lucky to have the chance to help this little elf become a strong and confident woman!! So without further delays I present Edith Jane Chapman

This baby girl has unleashed the baby fever!! I feel like I will never be ready but seeing my sister fall so deeply in love with this baby has made me start to crave a baby!! Watch out Zan!!

2008-11-10T13:04:00.000-06:00

Walden Artisan Market 2008

Come join me for holiday shopping done right...handmade and unique! If you are in the Nashville area the address is 1900 Eastland Ave. From paintings to jewelry there will be something for everyone on your list! Here is a preview of some of my new items!

2008-11-04T10:38:00.001-06:00

VOTE!!

No matter if you are Republican, Democrat or undecided, today is the day to make a choice! The important thing about election day is that you use your voice and this amazing freedom we have as a country to decide who best to represent us as a whole. I have made my choice. I feel that whatever the outcome it is time for change. It is time to show the rest of the world that we do care about everyone and not just ourselves. It is also time to show ourselves that we care about this country and its future. So no matter what you believe make your voice heard today because in the end the only choice we have is to move forward!

Etsy Gift Guide #1: Don't Let The Holidays Break Your Bank!!

2008-10-19T23:28:00.000-05:00

The holidays will be here before we know it! In this economy it is important to a.) not panic and b.) help rebuild it! The issues with the economy are not going away over night. By making a few smart choices this holiday season (i.e. keep the credit cards in the freezer ;)) your gift giving will not break your bank!

If you are unfamiliar with Etsy.com run do not walk to take a peek at all the treasures waiting for you! Etsy is an online community of super creative small business owners. The selection is great and the prices cannot be beat! So skip the mall and super discount mega marts and support an artist and/or small business owner this year. This blog is my Etsy best of gift guide for the 2008 holiday season! Happy shopping and enjoy!!

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Stylish Warmth

Pumpkin Spice Scarflette $15

Caper Chris Creations

Blooming Vine Scarf in Sunset

Fray

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Metal Components

Red Velvet Recycled Bike Clock

1 by liz

LOVE METAL WORDS WALL ART DECORATIONS MODERN HOME DECOR $28.00

Voss Creations

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Too Cute

Princess Tutu $20.00

Siennity

Custom Portrait of Your Own Pet - Be a part of the Forever Home series $45.00

Paw Prints Project

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Something To Carry It All

Damask Leather Wallet with Antique Skeleton Key...Antique Claret $60.00

Urban Heirlooms

Delila Bag with Adjustable Strap - Japanese Kokka Fabric $58.00

Anny and Me

Poppy Mini Pouch- Raspberry $28.00

sakuraurban

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For The Home

Yellow Bird on Cherry Blossom Pillow $28.00

Joom

Kitchen Icon Labels - vinyl decals $19.00

Tasty Suite

The Turning Large Print $25.00

Jelly Beans

Hopefully this gives you a great place to start shopping for the holidays! Etsy has something for everyone on your gift giving list. Take time to to explore Etsy you will be surprised at how many quality items you can find for under $100. Check back soon for the next group of inspired Etsy artists!

It's Halloween!!

2008-10-12T16:46:00.000-05:00

I love Halloween! I don't think I have always loved Halloween as much as I do now. I guess it is a combination of the beginning of the holiday season as well as the crisp fall nights. I am sure being a home owner has something to do with it as well. There is such a sense of comfort and pride in it. All I want is to decorate and entertain! I never thought the day would come when I would ask my mother for her coveted crock pot spice concoction. But it happened! It is a smell that reminds me of being a child. Now I want it in my own home welcoming the holiday season the way it use to when I was young.

What is your favorite thing about the beginning of the holiday season?

Upon realizing that your mother really is a Superhero...

2008-10-07T11:09:00.000-05:00

Do you hate to clean? Did I just write that? Of course, no one likes to clean. Well, I am now a home owner and cleaning just comes with the whole package! I have always been someone who keeps her kitchen cleanish but never an entire house! Ok so it is only 1323 sq. ft. Pathetic but oh so true! Blame it on my youngest child syndrome. Yes, let's do that. Mother thank you so much for always doing so much for me that I now have the inability to "keep house". Just kidding mother! What I really want to say is, "Ok mom I get it and thank you."

I don't know how she did it and kept her sanity! Everyday the same thing: scrub, rinse, repeat. I am starting to think I might go insane. And my poor mother on top of all that, doing it with two semi ungrateful teenagers and a passive husband (my father has since redeemed himself-well kind of ;)). The perfect example of my mother is how she used to wake us up for school in the mornings. She would come in singing something like, "It's morning, the sun is shining, time to wake up and enjoy the day!" Now those of you who know me know that my response to this was none to pleasant. But as an adult in a new marriage, I am starting to get how powerful it must be to love as a mother.

My hope is to have a daughter (even though I know mother you are laughing at this) and be able to fully appreciate the pure torture it must have been to have been my mother. The mother of a depressed (daughter of my father) teenager! Here's to you mother. You deserve a medal and a song!

Overcoming Fear

2008-09-25T14:45:00.000-05:00

Someone once asked me, "Why are you afraid of being successful?" The way I felt following that question was what I imagine getting slapped in the face must feel like. I had never before thought about my lack of forward motion as a reaction to my fear.

The older I get the more this all makes sense. Also, on the flip side, the older I get the less this fear is able to control me. Sure I still put in a frantic call to my saint of a mother who calmly assures me everything will be all right (Thanks for this morning!!). Isn't the saying, "Nothing worth doing is ever easy". I try to remember this statement when I wake up bombarded by the pressure and chaos of the world pressing the covers tighter over my head. It is not always easy but then again is that not what mothers are there for? To calmly and lovingly remind us that we are all capable of achieving all of our most precious goals!

So today I embrace my fear and allow it to move me forward! Even if it means feeling out of control for a little while. Eventually it will all makes sense.

Has anyone been moved in a forward motion by their fear? What was the outcome?

"Ah...married life," she said with a sarcastic sigh!

2008-09-23T19:37:00.000-05:00

Was anyone else blissfully unaware of the reality of living with one person day in and day out? I really kind of thought it was like a tv show.

Me the happy homemaker/artist wearing my cute little 50's style dresses happily preparing my hubby's martini for him after a hard days work (again this is all being said with a very sarcastic tone). Him the ever devoted extremely motivated business man who rushes home at the end of the day to greet me with open arms.

YEAH RIGHT!

Cut to reality and the fact that I am sitting alone in my new house furiously writing my husband an apology note via email. I have fallen short as a partner and I am not sure how to fix it. I am someone who struggles with depression while also having extreme focus issues. But the truth is I can talk about it until I am blue in the face but the only solution is to shut up and do my part!

Does anyone else feel they fall short at times? How do you manage to pick up your dignity while at the same time tuck under your tail and say, "I'm sorry baby?"

A desire to be...just be.

2008-09-22T10:34:00.001-05:00

Yesterday I was stressed, today I am stressed and tomorrow I will be stressed! Do you remember as a kid when everyone would say things like, "Enjoy life! The older you get the more complicated it gets!" Why is that? I mean seriously I want someone to tell me why that is the one constant truth of being an adult?

On top of this realization is the realization that I am still struggling to find a way to feel successful in terms of my career path! Is it too much to ask to only have to deal with the external crap that comes my way? Do I really have to figure out how to feel creative while also being a competent business owner?

I just want to be...just be: creative, carefree, uncomplicated and relaxed. These words have become my new life goals. Okay, I know in a perfect world! So add to that successful, prepared, productive and perfect! Now I am starting to see the problem!

Anyone else struggling? If so how do you make your peace?

Moving Day Has Finally Come!!

2008-09-11T10:45:00.000-05:00

At last! The hubby and I officially own our first home! It is so perfect! From the tiny 1928 closets to the decadent sun porch! We have been moving loads all week and the movers come tomorrow.

From the beginning of our relationship all we ever wanted was to have a home together! I am so proud to say we accomplished that goal! Next up: Becoming Debt Free!! This may take a bit longer but I know we can do it!

This has been such a challenging year for hubby and me but we can now see the light at the end of the tunnel. I fully believe our new home to be that light. With the purchase of this home we have found a sense of comfort and stability. What more can you ask for in life? The love of an amazing man and a place to call home. Today I am truly blessed.

New Etsy Site

2008-07-04T22:09:00.000-05:00

http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5398810

I have a new etsy site up! It seems the only down side is all the research involved in driving traffic to your site. It is a very user friendly site. Sellers are very eager to share advice with you. Please take a minute to check out my stuff. Any words of encouragement or critique are so very welcome!

Also any advice you guys might have on web advertising would be greatly appreciated!!

http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5398810