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DIY Gallery Wall
It's Friday!! Woo hoo! This Friday is extra exciting because I'm featured on another great Canadian blog today! The wonderful Amanda of Rose City Style Guide is featuring a fun DIY I did of my Gallery Wall. To see how I made my own gallery wall and for a step by step guide, go check out her blog, rosecitystyleguide.com. I love how my gallery wall turned out, and it was actually so easy and quick! Happy Friday everyone, enjoy the weekend! And lucky for us Canadians it's Thanksgiving this weekend! So Happy Thanksgiving! Yum yum yum.
September Faves
Can you believe September has already come and gone? Talk about fastest month ever! And with the start of a new month I thought I'd share my favourite things from September. September to me is always so much more of a fresh start, I think it goes back to when you started school. I always feel like it's the start of a new year much more than New Years, anyone else feel this way? So with the fresh start and the beginning of fall, I gathered up a few of my favourite beauty products, fashion buys and other fun things that I've been loving this month!
Marc Jacob's Perfume: Let me start this off with saying that I am not really a perfume person. I love smelling good (obviously) but never seem to find a perfume I really love. I'm not a fan of strong perfumes, or ones that have a lot of citrus or vanilla notes. So, luckily for me one day I was given a sample of this perfume from Sephora and fell in love. The perfume is very light and has a refreshing fruity smell to it.
Sally Hansen Nail Stickers: If you've been following my past few blog posts you'll know from this video how much I have fallen in love with nail stickers. I've been using the Sally Hansen nail stickers lately and love how quick and easy they are to apply. My favourite pattern so far is definitely 'Sweet Marble Floret'.
The Best Face Masks
Now that fall has arrived I've already started thinking (and worrying) about my skin. The changes in temperature always affect my skin, especially heading in to the cold winter months. Last year I noticed quite a change in my skin, it was constantly dull, dry and I even had a lot of breakouts, which is very rare for me. Because of that, I took charge and started to get serious about my skin care routine. While doing so, I came across many different face masks. I've used face masks before, but never really put much thought in to them. Most of the ones I used were given to me or was the result of rummaging through my moms drawers. So when I came across them again this time, I decided to try a few out and these are the ones I've been using nonstop over the past few months.
Lush Mask Of Magnaminty: This was the first mask I purchased at the beginning of this year and boy am I glad I did. It has an amazing peppermint smell and a nice thick texture. You apply a thick layer to your face and let it dry (about 15 mins) and then rinse off with warm water. Not only is this a great mask for deep cleaning pores but since it has a gritty texture it exfoliates your skin as well. I am also all about all natural face products and I love that Lush uses all natural ingredients.
Pratima Sandalwood Rose Mask: Well this is my first time mentioning this skincare line, but trust me there will be a ton more to come on them. They are hands down the best skincare line I've ever used. And trust me I have tried my fair share of products at all price ranges. Beyond their amazing daily skin care products, they also have a wide range of masks. The Sandalwood Rose mask is great for evening skin tone and making your skin feel so smooth after. I love using this mask when I don't necessarily need a deep cleansing, but just want to balance and smooth my skin.
Origins Clear Improvements Mask: I came across this mask at one of my many (many...) trips to Sephora. I had heard of clay masks and used a few in the past, but nothing compares to this particular mask. It deep cleans like no other mask I've used and it really does pull all the dirt from your pores. It also tightens your pores and helps eliminate that dreaded winter dullness.
The Perfect Lip Colours For Fall
Buxom Swinger Lipstick, CoverGirl Jam Twist, CoverGirl Euphoria Lipstick, Make Up For Ever Light Rosewood
I wanted to share some of the lipsticks I've been loving recently. Over the past few months I feel like a strong obsession has started with lipsticks, lip glosses or really any type of lip colour. I've picked up some great colours recently and I've especially been loving these four colours that seem so perfect for fall. I love a darker red colour for fall, but I have also been loving more purple toned colours like the Buxom Swinger Lipstick and the CoverGirl Euphoria Lipstick. Purple or more appropriately "Berry" colours are just the perfect addition to a great fall outfit and what's even better is that you can find some great colours at all different price points! Are you guys leaning towards these colours as well for fall? Let me know and I hope everyone has a great weekend! I'm definitely going to try to enjoy these last few weekends of beautiful weather before...dare I say it... winter starts (cue slight crying).
Fall Find: Shoes For Fall
Since yesterday marked the first official day of fall, I figured what better way to kick off the season than with a post dedicated to fall fashion. Fall is definitely my favourite season to dress for. I love combining layers, different textures and of course some fun shoes! I love this time of year, the transition from summer to fall. You can get away with wearing boots or flats, or even sandals on those extra warm days! I'm such a fan of flats and loafers that I just needed to share some of my recent finds with all of you! I have already purchased a few of the shoes (H&M Loafer, C.Wonder Cat Flat, Gap Sneaker) on this list (shh...let's keep that between us...) and I have already been wearing them nonstop. I'm hoping to add maybe another pair (or two) to my collection, especially the Sole Society Bow Loafer, because bows and loafers... what more could you need from a shoe? Perfection! Hopefully you've got your fall footwear in order and are ready for all the fun things fall brings!
My Picks:
How To Apply Nail Stickers
Yay another video tutorial for you guys today! Over the past little while I've been going back and forth between shellac or gel manicures and just regularly painting my own nails. While I do enjoy treating myself to a shellac manicure every now and then, I can't stand having to go back and get them taken off at the salon. Anyone else with me here? Once I'm over a colour or my nails have grown out I just want the shellac colour off. On the other side, I do love having my nails painted and will gladly do it myself, however I seem to struggle big time when painting my right hand. Talk about not being able to colour inside the lines. I think I end up using more nail polish remover around my nails than anything! So what's a girl to do? Well the perfect solution came to me a few weeks ago when some friends were talking about nail stickers (cue the lightbulb moment). I immediately went to Target, well let's be serious I was probably already there since I live there part-time..., and picked up some fun patterns and colour stickers to try.
I followed the steps for the Sally Hansen ones and was in love right away. They last a good week and a half to two weeks if you don't mind pushing it a bit. They were super easy to put on and came off with just some nail polish remover! Easy peasy right? So I thought why not share the love and show you all just how quick and easy it is to apply nail stickers. I hope you all enjoy and rush over to your local drugstore to pick some up!
I followed the steps for the Sally Hansen ones and was in love right away. They last a good week and a half to two weeks if you don't mind pushing it a bit. They were super easy to put on and came off with just some nail polish remover! Easy peasy right? So I thought why not share the love and show you all just how quick and easy it is to apply nail stickers. I hope you all enjoy and rush over to your local drugstore to pick some up!
5 Ways To Improve Your Office
As I mentioned in Tuesdays post, I recently changed up my little office space. I took some time over the summer to really think about what was working before and more importantly what wasn't. I'm so glad I took the time to think it over because I am so pleased with what I came up with. Not only does my space look nicer (very high up on my priorities list...), but I have noticed that I am doing more work from my desk and able to stay there much longer. So I thought I would share with you all the changes I made and the ways I improved my office to best work for me.
1. Recognize how you use your space: This is such a crucial first step when changing or creating your work space. You need to recognize how you use your space, what you use it for most and the essentials you need. Since my office space is so small I knew I needed as much storage as possible. Originally I had a large bookcase and my desk. I figured the bookcase would provide ample storage and be just what I needed. Boy was I wrong. The bookcase was awkward and wouldn't allow me to store as much as I wanted. That combined with my desk at the time proved to be a very uncomfortable setting to get work done. I wasn't able to utilize all my desk space and that is a big necessity for me. I like to have a lot of desk space so I can spread papers out, do some crafts or DIYs, or even eat my lunch! So now my new desk provides a ton of storage and allows me to utilize the whole desk top for all my fun projects.
2. Know what you need easy access to: This is definitely the most important step on this list. Realizing what things you need easy access to will not only make your life easier, it will help keep your space organized and clean. A while ago I decided to get serious about our bill situation (so fun I know), I was tired of having papers everywhere and having so much trouble finding important documents. So I went to a file folder system and it was wonderful! However, in my old desk the only place to put my file holder was tucked away behind other things. I know this sounds very lazy of me, but since it wasn't in my direct access I started to slack with filing away papers and ended up with piles of bills again. So, this time around I knew I needed easy access to my file holder and was able to do that with my new desk. Also having the essentials like pens, pencils, a ruler and scissors right on my desk have helped make things easier too!
3. Keep it clean and inspiring: Since I now have easy access to all the important things, I find it so much easier to keep my space clean and tidy. Having a clean workspace is so important for increasing your productivity and just really makes your life easier. Another thing that was high on my "redo list" was a place to put or store things that inspire me. I always loved the idea of an inspiration board but never had the space for one before. Since I got rid of the big bookcase, I was able to add a fun inspiration board (see how I made it here). Keeping and displaying things that are inspiring you at the moment really makes working from your space easier!
4. Have good natural light or a great desk lamp: I don't think anyone likes working in a dark little space. The thing I love most about my space is the big window to the left of my desk. Yes I do get distracted watching the clouds go by..., but I love the amount of light that pours in from it. I realize that having a big window isn't always readily available, so the next best thing is to have a great desk lamp. I recently found a great one from ikea. It provides just enough light, yet still looks nice sitting on my desk.
5. Use a comfortable chair and desk: This step is also very high on the importance list. If you are not comfortable at your desk, you will not want to work there. It's that simple. My previous desk was much too tall for the chair I use, and therefore made for many uncomfortable days. Towards the end, I ended up working from other places, but always longed to be back at my desk. So, fast forward to now, luckily my new desk is the perfect height for my chair. I have found it so much easier to sit at my desk for long periods of time and rarely feel uncomfortable or restless.
Where to find:
- Ikea Liatorp Desk
- Black and White Striped Throw
- White and Gold Desk Lamp
- White Shelf
- Gold Initial
- Je t'aime print
DIY Cork Board/Inspiration Board
I'm nervous excited for todays post! It's different than what I've posted in the past, but I'm so excited to share it with all of you! At the end of summer I was feeling very uninspired with my office setup and decided that it needed a little makeover! I rearranged some things, switched up my desk and added some much needed colour to this little work space of mine! In addition to all of that, I knew I desperately wanted to add a place where I could post reminders and store things that were inspiring me. I've always loved the idea of an inspiration board, and since I always rip pages out of magazines, I thought a cork board would be the best option! So I decided not only to add a cork board to my office, but do a little DIY that would also add a nice punch of colour too!
So here is what I came up with! Take a look at the video below to see how I created my version of a cork board/inspiration board for my office! And stay tuned for another workspace post later in the week, where I'll share how I make my new space work for me!
Happy Tuesday friends, I hope you enjoy!
Summer Wrap Up
Boy it feels good to be back! And not just back here, on this little fun space of mine, but back to life. Needless to say this summer was crazy. Crazy in an all capital letters, underlined and in bold kind of way! But the best kind of crazy. The kind you will remember forever. Before I jump in to all those fun details I thought I'd quickly check in on my Summer To Do List that I posted at the beginning of the summer, to see how I faired. I'm pretty happy that out of the 12 things I wanted to do, I was able to accomplish 6 of them! That's not too bad, right? I was able to spend some fun afternoons with family playing lawn games, Matt and I played tennis a lot (I have a sexy short tan to prove that one...), we went and saw a concert, unfortunately not outdoors, but the fact that it was Beyonce and Jay Z makes up for that right? (duh), I was able to plan a party (and a very special one at that), I definitely took my fair share of pictures and videos this summer, and not only did we take a weekend getaway, I took a pretty great vacation as well!
So all in all this summer was pretty great, and it definitely had its fair share of surprises! It started with my sister getting engaged! I am beyond excited about this, not only for her but also because this means I get to plan and help with all the fun wedding details (yes I might have pulled out my Emily Post etiquette book once or twice already). This exciting news sent my summer into wedding mode, and most importantly planning an end of the summer engagement party. I'll share some photos below of how it turned out. I was really happy with the results and glad that the rain held off until later in the evening.
And I thought that would make for a pretty great summer, but then I was fortunate enough to go to California with my best friend. Oh right, we went because she was nominated for an Emmy (pardon?). Yes my wonderfully talented friend was nominated for an Emmy and decided to bring little old me with her! Needless to say it was beyond fun and I'll cherish those memories forever.
Anyways, I hope your summer was filled with all things fun, and that no matter what you did or where you were you were able to enjoy it and get the most out of it! Summer 2014 you were pretty awesome! Can't wait to see what the fall brings!
Summer To Do List
Since summer officially starts in a few days I thought it would be the perfect time to share my summer to do list! These are a few simple and fun things (in no particular order) that I hope to do this summer. Keep your eye on this list throughout summer as I'll be editing it once I check an item off the list! I hope you enjoy and let me know what's on your to do list this summer! Yay for summer and yay for more ice cream cones like the one pictured above!
1. Go to the drive in.
2. Spend an afternoon outside playing lawn games.
3. Play tennis as much as possible.
4. Go see a concert (preferably an outdoor one).
5. Go to an amusement park.
6. Buy fresh/local produce whenever possible.
7. Go on a winery tour.
8. Plan a dinner party on the rooftop.
9. Go watch an outdoor baseball game.
10. Make homemade popsicles.
11. Take more pictures and videos.
12. Take a weekend getaway.
Image source
Pep Talk Thursday: Encouragement
So here we go! As I said in my post yesterday, today's post would be a little different than my normal posts. I've thought long and hard about how to channel these idea's into a post or a series and I think I have finally landed on an idea that feels right. So, I'm still working out the logistics, but I think every other Thursday will now be known as Pep Talk Thursday. Every other week I'll cover a new topic, these will be wide ranging, but my hope is for this to be like we're sitting together, having a tea and just chatting. If you have any ideas for a topic please feel free to share! I always love new ideas! To start I thought it would be best to ease in to this with a topic that I've mentioned a few times on here and my instagram, and that is the idea of encouragement. This one word honestly fills me with so much passion and joy. Seriously just say it out loud a few times. Doesn't it make you want to help others, or send a nice text to someone who might need it? Well that's exactly how it makes me feel and hopefully once our little pep talk is through you will feel the same way!
My relationship with the term encouragement (yes you can have a serious relationship with a word...) began a few months ago. This was right around the same time that this blog of mine felt a little stuck, and when I wasn't sure where I wanted this space to head. So, what better way to get motivated then to procrastinate and watch a bunch of videos that aren't really related to what you're doing... smart one Nicole! However, what I quickly learned through some of these videos was that they were speaking so clearly to me, that their messages really sparked something within me. There's a whole bunch of videos, blog posts and webinars that are great for inspiration and cover many topics. Some of my favourites are The Conversation by Amanda de Cadenet (here), blog posts by Lara Casey and Emily Ley, and also their webinars. Seriously go check these out, they will make you feel so inspired and ready to move mountains afterwards!
But after watching and reading a few of these things I kept coming back to the word encouragement. Why is it so hard for women to encourage each other sometimes? Sure, as a friend we are so supportive and can be so encouraging, but I feel as strangers we tend to compete more then encourage. Maybe it's just me, but does anyone else feel this way? I noticed it greatly when I started getting angry/competitive with other people on instagram (first world problems here) and I took a step back and thought to myself, wouldn't it be so much better if I encouraged these other people? Wouldn't I love it if they encouraged me as well (treat others how you want to be treated)? So that's what I began to do.
When we step back and look at our actions and thoughts I think that is when we can really understand where they are coming from and how we can change them. Encouragement can be so powerful and so helpful. Everyone has a story, everyone has problems, you never know what is really going on in someones life. Because of this if you can encourage that person in any way possible, isn't that going to just be the best thing? Trust me not only will you make them feel better, but you as well will feel great. Whether it's being there for a friend when they need you, sending a reminder to someone who needs an extra good luck, or encouraging a stranger by helping out or acknowledging you like what they're doing, every little bit helps.
In one of the interviews that Amanda de Cadenet does for The Conversation, she talks with Gwyneth Paltrow about parenting and what it means to be a mother. Gwyneth Paltrow discusses this in relation to other mothers and how sometimes they can be so critical of one another as mothers. She then continues on by saying mothering is already hard enough "can't we all just be on each others side"? I thought this was brilliant. Think about it for a second. Can't we all be each others cheerleaders? Sure we can have different opinions about things, but can't we cheer each other on and encourage each other?
That idea of being on each others side paired with the quote below from the very talented Erica Cook, was really the inspiration behind my idea of Encouragment Always Wins. Guys I truly, whole heartedly believe this. Yes people are going to do bigger and better things than you, but that doesn't mean we shouldn't encourage them. I know that there is always going to be a more popular blog than mine, a blogger with way more instagram followers than me, and sure, from time to time that does make me jealous, but that doesn't mean I shouldn't support or encourage those other bloggers.
So let's start with this guys, let's start by encouraging each other more. I know we can do it! Start by encouraging your friends and family, showing your support for them and whatever it is they are facing. I guarantee you will be so glad you did, and will want to continue doing it (it's honestly addicting). I'll leave you with that and let me know what you think of the first Pep Talk Thursday.
May Favourites
This month I picked out 8 products that I have been loving. Truly each one of these products has become my go to staple!
Ole Henriksen Face Wipes: I had been searching for face wipes for a little while now. I used some drugstore brands a long time ago and went back to try them again. However, this time around my skin wasn't too happy with me that I did. Most of them irritated my face and I got a slight reaction to a few different brands. So off to Sephora I went and came across these! I'm so glad I did. I'm really in to more natural and clean face products lately and I was so happy when I found these ones because they fit the bill. They smell amazing and take makeup off really well. They are also supposed to brighten your face, which I do notice but just slightly. They don't irritate my face at all and don't sting around my eyes, which I find some wipes can do.
Eos Shave Cream: Yes, I know, this is quite random. But I came across this the other day at Target and decided to give it a go. I've heard so many great things about their lotions and lip balms, so I was excited to try it. Honestly guys this was life changing. Like words can't even describe how in love with this I am (and yes shaving cream can be life changing). It leaves your skin so smooth afterwards and just makes shaving so much easier. This is my number 1 favourite from this past month so run to your nearest target and buy every single one on the shelf!
Rifle Paper Co. Cards: How cute are these? I think I have an obsession (we all knew that) with Rifle Paper Co products. I picked these two cards up in hopes of framing them for my gallery wall (more to come on that soon!), but decided to hold off and use them as cards instead. I'm excited to send these out to a few friends soon.
Kate Spade Pencil Set: Well to add to my stationery obsession, this Kate Spade pencil set, which was given to me as a birthday present (my friends know me so well) makes everything that much better. What's better than writing your to do list with a fun and bright pencil? Well nothing in my books.
Maybelline Lipcolor: To add to my major slight stationery obsessions I think I also have a lipstick/gloss obsession. I can't seem to leave Target without grabbing a new one. I picked this Maybelline one up at the beginning of May and I knew it would be the perfect spring colour. This one is called Vivd Rose and it is the perfect bright pink/red colour.
Origins Moisturizer: Since it is almost summer I started thinking about my SPF situation and realized my face moisturizer did not have any SPF in it. So I did some research and again keeping with a more natural product, I came across this Origins face moisturizer with SPF 30 in it. I really like it so far and it again has the same brightening effect as the Ole Henriksen face wipes, which I love.
Lush Face Mask: Ok so I might have bought this mask at the end of April, and yes I'm a rebel for including it in my May favourites, but I just had to. I've used this a few times now and every time I'm always amazed at how smooth it leaves my skin. It has a great peppermint smell to it and leaves my skin so soft and refreshed.
Lululemon Sports Bra: Well I did it; I finally found a gym I like. After a few trial and errors I recently joined a new gym and I love it! I quickly realized though that I did not have enough workout clothes and quickly made my way to Lululemon. I love their sports bras, and for me they are so comfortable and I love the thinner straps on them. A little tip for you guys too, I usually go in every so often and just check to see if any of them are on sale, which they usually are, and that's when I scoop them up! I mean you wear a shirt over them so for me I don't really care if mine are neon orange or some crazy pattern! If I can save $20 or so then it's well worth it!
Ole Henriksen Face Wipes, EOS Shaving Cream, Rifle Paper Co Cards, Kate Spade Pencils, Maybelline Vivds Lipcolor, Origins Moisturizer, Lush Face Mask, Lululemon Sports Bra
I hope you guys enjoyed this months favourites! What were some of your May favourites? Stay tuned for a new series post coming tomorrow! I'm excited about this one guys, it's a little different then my usual posts but something that just speaks to my heart! Have a great Wednesday!
Done Is Better Than Perfect
Well hello again! I know it has sadly been just over a month since I was last here (eek), but sometimes that just happens. Sometimes life just happens friends. My relationship with this blog the past month has been, well, non existent. And it honestly was by choice. I enjoy blogging and creating new content and sharing with you all, but this past month I was just the most uninspired I think I have ever been. I also think I really needed time to decide what this all means and where I want this little blog of mine to go. When I first started thinking of blogging (years ago) I had a few ideas of what I wanted that space to look like. Time went on and I never officially took the leap to start that blog. Finally after really listening to myself and letting go of those things that held me back (what would others think?) I started this little space! And I've enjoyed it every moment since. But I think like most things in life, they need to be reworked, reevaluated and rearranged. So, nothing major is really going to change here, but I am going to keep moving forward with this space of mine (yay) and continue to bring you all some fun content and hopefully some inspiration as well! I've always felt that everything I put on here has to be 100% if not 120% perfect. I strive for perfection and one of my biggest fears with this blog was coming off as an "amateur", looking like I didn't know what I was doing. But I've also realized that done is better than perfect sometimes. Sometimes 2-3 simple outfit pictures are just as good as a perfectly put together photo shoot of an outfit, that shooting a "how to style" series doesn't need the absolute perfect lighting, and instagrams don't need to be perfectly styled. That's not real life, and at the end of the day I rather showcase real life, and help others out in an achievable manner. This isn't to say you won't still see some pretty pictures and design, because you sure will! But this hopefully means more content will be put up and the more real life aspects will shine through! So get ready friends! I'm back and so excited to dive in! I hope you stick around and join me on this new path for Style of Living!
Encouragement
Navigating The Kentucky Derby
I thought I would share some key things to know for this weekends Kentucky Derby. It is one of our favourite weekends around here and we look forward to it every year! The Kentucky Derby isn't just about the horse race, however if you are betting California Chrome is the favourite to win. The whole experience has become just as big as the race, showcasing peoples outfits, women's large and beautiful hats and different ways to make the classic Derby drink, the Mint Julep. Whether you are lucky enough to attend or not, grab a glass of Mint Julep (recipe below) or some sweet tea, and maybe put on a little fancy dress to make a fun afternoon out of it! I hope you all have a great weekend!
Mix n' Match Lip Color
Happy Tuesday everyone! I thought what better way to start the week than a whole bunch of pictures of my wonderful face (eeek). Anyways, I hope you all had a good weekend and your week is off to a great start! My weekend was a ton of fun, spent with close family and spending all of Sunday outside (yay for warm weather...finally).
So I thought I'd share with you a fun idea that I have been playing around with and loving for the past little while. I have never been a huge lip colour person, but recently I don't seem to leave the house without a bit of colour on. I think it was because I could never find that perfect shade or colour. So one day I decided to mix n' match a few colours and I was so happy with the results. Whether its adding a coloured gloss over top of lipstick or layering two lipsticks together, it truly is a great way to make the perfect colour, and an unique one at that! I put together 4 of my favourite combinations to show you how it works and the end results! So, go be crazy and make some new lip colours for yourself, and hopefully you'll be just as happy with the results as I was!
Maybelline Coral Crush, Revlon Kiss Me Coral, NYX Lip Cream Milan, Revlon Lipgloss Pink Pop, Nyx Lip Pencil Hot Red, Revlon Ravish Me Red, Revlon Raspberry Pie, bareMinerals Moxie Rebel
Weekly Favourites
Fabric samples from Tonic Living for our new bedroom
Pretty signs that spring has arrived while on a lunch time walk
My new favourite spring trick for glowing skin: adding foundation to your moisturizer
Happy Friday!! This past week was honestly so great. I so badly needed to get back in to a routine and really focus on making things happen, and I'm proud to say I actually did just that (I know, I was surprised too). The weather has been great these past few days, and between having to wear less layers, taking lunch time walks and playing tennis, it's safe to say I am fully embracing it! Hopefully I can continue this productive streak this weekend and make some decor decisions about our bedroom and living room. I hope you all have a productive or relaxing or refreshing weekend! Which ever one is needed!
Bedroom Inspiration
Tonic Living Fabric and Pillow (Coral Ikat/Floral/Geometric Coral/Green Trellis/Black Dalmation Dot), Target Sunburst Mirror, Overstock.com Gold Mirror, Anna With Love Paris Prints (1/2/3/4), Lulu & Georgia Lamps, Wayfair Bench, Chapters Gold Letters
As I've mentioned in my past few posts (here & here), we (...mainly I) have decided to redecorate our bedroom and living room! I think changing things up, decor wise, can have such a big impact on your space and make it feel totally new again. I was planning on putting all my focus and attention on completing the living room first, but once I found this watercolor floral fabric, I just knew I needed to have it and that it would be great in our bedroom! So I switched focus and I am halfway done our bedroom (woohoo!). I'm not 100% sure how each fabric will be placed in our bedroom, but I definitely have plans to use all of them in one way or another! I love the bright colours, especially since our room is completely white and boring right now. Another way I hope to tie some colour in is by adding some of the beautiful prints from Anna With Love's Paris Collection. Seriously guys this collection is stunning. It's so hard to narrow down which ones I want, but I think I have decided on these four (for now...) and I can't wait to frame them and hang them above our beside tables! So stay tuned as I'll be blogging about the progress, some fun DIYs (I'm going to try to make my own headboard...fingers crossed), and the final look!
Who What Wear: The Park
WHO: A picnic in the park is a great opportunity to spend a whole day outside. It can be fun with you and your significant other or more of an event with a bunch of friends. I love the idea of putting together a big group of friends and making a day out of it. When the weather is great, there is nothing better than to spend the day outside with some good food, good games and good company!
WHAT: After packing your picnic basket (seriously everyone needs one of these), go and grab some easy and fun outdoor games to bring with you. Some of my favourite summer days are the ones where we stay outside all day playing lawn games with drinks in our hands! Some great outdoor games are croquet, ring toss, and horseshoes.
WEAR: When I was deciding what the perfect picnic outfit would be I realized this could really go two ways. If you're going on a picnic with maybe just one other person and the only plan is to relax and eat, then a dress or skirt would definitely be a cute option. I decided to go with jeans and a simple top because I find it easier to move around in and you don't have to worry about how you're sitting or fuss with your outfit. I think this outfit would be the perfect thing to wear for a spring picnic. I love the pop of colour from this Joe Fresh shirt, and nothing screams spring/summer to me more than stripes. I feel like a good straw or floppy hat is such a spring/summer essential. I love the hat I chose from H&M, but Anthropologie also has a ton of great hat options (here) that shouldn't be missed. Finally, my favourite part of this whole outfit is definitely the watermelon purse. How freaking adorable is that? I love the idea of fun prints for spring and summer, and this bag from H&M is perfect.
Inspired By...
1. A cute and simple Easter treat that will have everyone coming back for more.
2. A recently discovered Songza playlist that will put you in an instant good mood.
3. Some ways to increase productivity throughout the day.
4. Beautiful and colorful pillows that are on the top of my list for redecorating.
5. This collection of photographs based around Paris will have anyone daydreaming.
6. A fun article to remind us that some things are worth making time for.
Here's some inspiration to kick start your week! Enjoy!
April To Do List
Can you guys believe it's already April? It makes me so excited that the sun is out most days, days are longer and it's getting just a bit warmer! I love this time of year so much, I always feel way more energized and motivated to get things done! Speaking of which, here are a few things I'm hoping to do this month:
First on my list is redecorating and rearranging my house! For over a little while now we had been going back and forth on whether or not we should move (we have zero storage space here). After thinking about all our options (and yes making a pros and cons list...) we decided it makes more sense to stay. I'm actually really glad we made that decision because it was such a valuable lesson to learn (which ties in with the quote below), that you can be content and happy with what you have, you just need to look for it. A month ago I couldn't of been out of this place faster, but after really thinking about what our current place offers and the differences between other places, it made me realize that I need to focus more on being content with what I have! So I've reorganized the closets, decided on new pillows and rearranged some furniture and I am so happy with the results (more to come on that)!
Since the sun stays out later now, it makes doing things at night that much easier. I feel like in winter you can get in to a slump of having dinner and perching yourself in front of the TV for the rest of the night. I've already noticed since it stays light until at least 7 now, that we have been way more productive and have been more likely to go out after dinner. One of the first things on my list, once it was warm enough, was to go for a bike ride. We went for so many last summer and I absolutely loved it. You get some good exercise but it's also just really enjoyable and reminds me of all those times I'd hop on my bike and just go wherever when I was younger!
Linking back to my first To Do, being content with what I have is going to be a big focus not only this month but hopefully for a long time to come. I feel like it is so easy to loose sight of what we have when it seems like everyone else has the newest, greatest and latest thing. Obviously you want that new shinny thing too! But when you really think about it, you probably can make do with what you have and a lot of the time it's just as good or better. I know I am guilty of buying things I probably don't need (hence the large bag of clothes I just donated) and I am really going to focus on that this month, and hey hopefully it will save me some money too! It's a win win!
The other day I came across the Easter card section in Chapters and found some absolutely adorable cards. I decided to buy a few and am determined to send them out in time for Easter! I love the idea of sending snail mail and think it's such a special treat when you receive something in the mail that you weren't expecting. So I have a few cards and stamps ready to be dropped off at the post office!
I hope your week is off to a good start! We are off to a basketball game tonight and meeting some friends for drinks before! So it should be a good Wednesday! I hope yours is too!
Be Thankful...
Boy, did I ever need this as a reminder last week! It was one of those weeks where nothing seemed to work or be good enough.. do you know what I mean? I felt like I was going to be in that never ending rut forever! Luckily, the sun is shining and that makes a world of a difference this week! I think I can finally feel spring coming (it's almost here...right?) and that alone makes me so happy!
I made this print and have made it my computer background picture because I think it's so important to keep this in mind. There is always something to be thankful for. Even if you think you're life is going nowhere or you aren't where you think you should be, you can always be thankful for what you do have! It's easy to say that and I know so much harder to actually do it, but if you take the time and look around, I'm sure you can find a few things that you are so thankful to have. I started doing this as a daily task to think of 3 things I am thankful for. It doesn't have to be anything life changing or major, but simply 3 things you are happy you did or have. It really puts things in perspective and makes you realize things aren't ever that big of a deal!
So I thought I'd share my 3 things that I'm thankful for today... in no particular order:
1. Starbucks- I know this sounds bad, but since working from home I've learnt that I need to get out of the house once a day. Seeing that it has been -100 degrees or so around here lately, taking a quick trip to Starbucks has been a great substitute for going for a walk.
2. My apartment- yes it may be tiny, and I may have cursed it out many times this past week because there is no storage left, but in the end I am so thankful that I have this little place of my own. It does feel like home and I love that I get to share it with my best friend.
3. Music (in particular Beyonce)- seriously guys, music is the best thing ever created. It instantly lifts my mood and gives me energy throughout the day. And there is nothing more energizing than listening to Beyonce... really loud (sorry neighbours). Since last week was not very energizing or motivating, I threw on some Beyonce first thing this morning and it instantly put me in a great mood! If you're feeling a little down, seriously throw some Beyonce on, dance around your house and sing at the top of your lungs...it will help!
The 'Anytime' Gift Guide: under $20
Ever since Christmas came and went I have been thinking about gifts and how to make the gift giving process a bit easier. I love giving gifts, there is nothing better then making someone else happy or feel special with a simple gift. So I figured I would do a little series dedicated to the fun act of gift giving! I've called this The 'Anytime' Gift Guide because that is exactly what it is for, there does not need to be a specific occasion, it can be a 'just because' gift. However most of these options also work great for birthday gifts or special occasion gifts! To kick of this gift guide I've started with gifts under $20. These are perfect little gifts to give, they still feel like you put some effort in to choosing them, but they aren't over the top!
1. Rifle Paper Co Notebooks ($13)- a pack of notebooks, or one beautiful journal is a great little gift to give, especially if its a going away gift for them to keep track of their travels!
2. Voluspa Candle ($12)- I honestly think everyone likes candles, and that makes them a great gift to give. I love giving a really nice candle to friends, because like myself, I know they may not want to spend a lot of money on a candle. This makes it a little extra special for them!
3. Initial Necklace- if you aren't familiar with Etsy then go right now and start looking (trust me!). Etsy is a great resource for little personalized gifts. There are many stores on Etsy that sell adorable and simple initial jewelry. If you plan ahead and factor in shipping times (which is usually pretty quick), then a little piece of personalized jewelry can be a great gift.
4. One Good Deed A Day ($13)- this journal is a great gift for really anyone. Inside each page is filled with cute 'deeds' to complete. Things like "say hello to a stranger" or "learn to change a tire" are some of the deeds and you can write the date you completed it on. There are many other journals like it that are just as cute (here and here).
5. Chapters Teacup ($14)- this is probably my most gifted gift. I love pretty tea mugs and I feel like you can never have too many of them (especially if you're like me and drink tea 5 times a day...). The selection of tea mugs has been getting even better too, with pretty designs and ones with great sayings (here), you are sure to find one for whomever you are giving it to!
6. SS Print Shop Donut Print ($20)- this is just one of the many prints that are sold at SS Print Shop. They are also even easier to buy now since they are sold in stores and online at Chapters. Prints are a fun gift to give, with their beautiful design and really cute and clever sayings. There is such a large selection of them as well, so it makes it even easier to find one that works!
7. Forever 21 PJ Set ($16)- a little while ago I came across pjs on the forever 21 website and fell in love. They have the cutest pj sets and they are actually pretty comfortable too! PJs are a great gift too because it is another thing that I feel like everyone loves!
Places to Shop: Anthropologie, Chapters/Indigo, Forever 21, SS Print Shop, Etsy (BipAndBop, Verse Shop, Lizas Little Things)
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