Time to get stuff DONE!

Boy do I need to get my hands on this mug! We've been blessed with a cool front that has had temperatures dipping into the low 70s all week, ensuring you need a light jacket to be comfortable. It's been a wonderful respite from the heat, but when I'm feeling all warm and fuzzy sitting around in my hoodie, it seems all I want to do is read a book or browse Pinterest for hours on end while I sip my coffee. I guess in a way it's like a mini stay-cation and I've definitely enjoyed it. But I still do have quite a long list of projects to complete and deadlines to meet, so...off the couch I go! 

July and Purple Coneflowers

All year long, I look forward to July, when my Purple Coneflowers finally bloom and all of the sudden my garden is an explosion of color. These last til the end of summer too, making them an especially welcome addition. Up next, Zinnias and Sunflowers! 

If You Have a Garden and a Library You Have Everything You Need

 I have had this quote in another style pinned up in my office for a while now. Obviously, it's meant to be kept in a certain context, but at it's heart it is a great reminder to me that sometimes the simplest things in life can bring you the greatest pleasure (especially when that's all you have at the moment...you learn to be very grateful for every good thing). Words of wisdom from Cicero, many moons ago.

Making Mini Display Pillows

 We couldn't have asked for a more beautiful Independence Day yesterday, so I supposed it's only fitting that today is cool and cloudy with more thunderstorms onthe horizon. Still, it's a nice opportunity to just relax indoors after all the excitement. A good day for a long bath (for the little one) while I work on my next sewing project. I made these 'LOVE' pillows back in February for my Valentines display and I want to make more like them for my Etsy shop. I also like the words 'HOME' and 'NEST'. Any other suggestions for words you'd like to see on display in your home?

Me getting some work done while my son takes his bath (sometimes it's the only way - haha!). I'm fraying the edges of the 'O' by pulling the outer threads loose with a straight pin and then trimming the ends.

No-Bake Cool & Creamy Berry Dessert for the 4th of July

Looking for a quick & easy dessert for your 4th of July party? Try this cool & creamy, no-bake dish topped with fresh berries in festive red and white. I know what I'm making this Friday!! 

Appreciate Life As It Happens...Black & White Art Quote

Wherever you are I hope you have plans to make some memories with friends and family this weekend. Challenge yourself to enjoy every good thing - the sun on your face, the laughter of children, the taste of good food, bright lights in the sky, and the aura of freedom. Drink it all in.

10 Easy 4th of July DIY Decorating Projects

Here are 10 of my favorite Easy 4th of July Decorating Projects. Whether you're 'crafty' or not, there's something here that everyone can do with just a little time (or hardly any). Happy Independence Day week everyone!!  

 1) With a little paint and a little tape, and possibly a stencil for the stars, you can turn every-day mason jars into wow-worthy and reusable vases for your 4th of July party.

2) Simpy tie American Flag-printed bandanas together for instant festive bunting!

 3) Making these lawn stars involves just cardboard or posterboard and some flour. A great project to get the kids involved!

 4) Just write your favorite patriotic saying on a chalkboard and surround it with a few pieces of red-white-and-blue decor.

5) Use colored sand to create festive 4th of July votives. A great project for older kids.

 6) Even if you don't have a big American Flag to hang up, you can still get in the Independence Day spirit by adding some red-white-and-blue throw pillows into your exisiting decor.

 7) I love this ridiculously simple decorating idea! Works for inside OR outside. I think the mini flags are only about $1 each.

8)  Cut triangles out of red-white-and-blue fabric or bandanas. Fold the top edges over and secure with safety pins or sew. Run a length of yarn through them and you've got a super-cute banner!

9) Sew some red-white-and-blue bandanas together for a festive tablecloth.

10) This ribbon wand could be a safe alternative to sparklers or just a way for the kids to have fun and show their patriotic spirit while waiting for it to get dark outside.