Blonde at Heart

Misc. Monday

2012-01-16T08:00:00.000-08:00

I hope you had a fantastic weekend! For those of you who are lucky enough to have today off...I am so jealous! For those of you who are like me and are working, I feel your pain. Regardless, lets kick this week off with a little bit of miscellaneous mutterings, shall we?

Snow

It snowed here Saturday night and kept going all day Sunday {and if the forecast is accurate its supposed to snow through Tuesday}. I went to Jackie's house to hang out since the Hubs was working. It was a lot of fun. There were five of us over there just hanging out and playing in the snow. We had a fun snowball fight. I ended up getting tackled and have the bruise to prove it. Also, it turns out that not only does her dog, Tucker, love rolling around in the snow, he also love to eat the snow! It made for some great entertainment.

Friday Night

Apparently, when I am really bored, I clean the house. I don't just mean clean things and pick things up, but more like I rearrange things and deep clean them. This is how I spent my Friday evening. My plans for the night fell through and the Hubs was out playing poker with some friends. Rather than waste my night I cleaned, rearranged, re-organized, and did laundry. Not super fun or glamorous in any way, but the Hubs was super happy and quite impressed with me. So, yay for that! Totally made it worth the four and a half hours that I spent working on it.

Nails

Okay, so lately I have been painting my nails a lot. Like, at least once a week. On the weekends I tend to stay up super late {early...we are talking 4am people} because I start it late, take forever, and then wait even longer for my nails to dry. What normally happens {like on Saturday night} is that I give them time to dry and then I am ready for bed, but my nails aren't dry enough yet. Then I end up staying up another hour until I am ready to fall asleep where I am sitting. I go to bed and realize that my nails still aren't dry enough and end up ruining my work of art. You would think that I would learn my lesson since I do this all the time...but that would make things far too easy!

How was your weekend?

What I'm Lovin'-Coats & Capes!

2012-01-13T08:00:00.000-08:00

This week I am lovin' coats and capes. I don't know about the weather where you live, but the temperatures have sure dropped around here. Cold weather makes me very grateful for the coats that I have and make me appreciate the adorable coats I have come across. Here are just a few that have caught my eye:

All images via Pinterest

What are you lovin' this week?

Awkward & Awesome!

2012-01-12T08:00:00.000-08:00

Oh, Thursdays...how I love you! Its time for me to share my awkward & awesome moments from my week. Shall we begin?

Awkward

~Putting off laundry long enough that as I am switching loads (when I finally end up doing laundry) I see all the clothes I forgot I had and say to myself, "oh! I love this!" And here I was thinking that I didn't have enough cute clothes to bring to Paris...I hate doing laundry, but boy do I love clothes!

~Switching loads of laundry on your lunch break and coming home only to realize that you forgot to hit "start" on the dryer...hello wet clothing!

~Having the dryer stop working. You spend a good ten minutes trying all sorts of different things to get it to start back up, but nothing happens. Then you send out a text to your hubby and best friends telling them the dumb dryer isn't working and then it decides its time to work again. Thanks, Dryer, for making me look like an idiot.

~Having to take your glasses off at work because you can see better without them...time for a new prescription and new glasses!

Awesome

~My bright pink tights I got for my birthday! They are awesome! The hostess at Applebees loved them and couldn't stop talking about 'em! Woo!

~Getting to see my girls at youth group. I love it when youth group starts back up after the holidays!

~Getting little texts from my nephew that make no sense, but it doesn't even matter because it came from him

~Pinterest...I am hooked and I love it!

~Ordering my Kindle case so that I have it for my trip

~My Hubby. He left youth group early to take me home because I had a migraine

~Orange juice. I drink it all the time. I think I am in love!

~Planning outfits out with your best friend for your trip to Paris!

~Leaving for Paris in 16 days!!!! I am just a little excited :)

Now its your turn to share your awkward and awesome events from the week! :)

What I Wore

2012-01-11T08:00:00.000-08:00

Trying to get back into the habit of taking pictures of my outfits has been frustrating. I have worn several outfits that I have loved, but have forgotten to take pictures of them. Luckily for me {and you!}, my hubby has been home when I come home for lunch and has been my photographer...hence some of the faces that I am making...definitely not normal "Natalie" poses!

Coat-gift from Hubby {Kohl's}, Top-Kohl's $12, Jeans-Forever21 $10.50, Shoes-Fred Meyer $5,

Necklace-Birthday Gift, Earrings-Lovely Afterthoughts

Top-Old Navy $12.99, Sequin Tank-Kohl's $5, Boots-Kohl's {couple years ago}, Necklace-Lovely Afterthoughts, Jeans-Forever21 $10.50

Top-Old Navy, Jeans-Forever21 $10.50 {can you tell I love their jeans??}, Legwarmers-Kohl's $5, Boots-Kohl's {last year}, Necklace-Shannon's Sparklies

Slowly, but surely, I will get back into the swing of things and have more outfits to share!

What are you loving to wear right now?

Misc. Monday

2012-01-09T08:00:00.000-08:00

Good morning and welcome to another Miscellany Monday!

Birthday

I had a great birthday on Friday! We went out to dinner with friends and some family and it was a lot of fun! I spent a majority of the time laughing, which is always a plus. My two nephews completely stole the show with their adorableness. Logan was enjoying throwing peanuts onto the floor. He also enjoyed throwing peanuts into people's drinks. Let me tell you, he has a pretty good arm! I also ended up with a small wad of straw wrappers in my drink throughout the night. Logan thought it was hilarious every time I had to pull out the wrapper from my drink. It was a fun, relaxing, and very enjoyable night!

Bike

I used my new bike on Saturday. Jackie and I went for a ride. Let me just say that beach cruiser bikes are not meant for hills. I spent quite a bit of time walking my bike up-hill. Eventually I will figure out how to get up the hills without having to walk, but until then...Jackie will just have to wait for me at the top!

Movies

We watch a lot of movies. Its the easiest way for me {the girl who is never relaxed} to "relax" at least a little bit. Jackie often makes fun of me {as does the Hubs} because I pick out terrible movies. I enjoy them, but most others don't. I decided to put things into perspective for her Saturday night. I found the worst movie that we owned and started it. As the movie was starting {I never told her what it was, I just threw it and hit play} the Hubs came in to see what we were watching. I told him we were watching Glitter {you know, the one with Mariah Carey in it? I love her. I don't know why, but I do!}. He looked at me like I had lost my mind. I finished the movie, but Jackie didn't. I just hope the next time I pick out a movie that she thinks is horrible that she will remember Glitter and think, "okay, I guess this movie wasn't that bad." :)

How was your weekend? Did you get to do any fun, interesting, or relaxing?

What I'm Lovin'-Friends, Family, & Birthdays!

2012-01-06T08:00:00.000-08:00

That's right! Today I am lovin' friends, family, and birthdays! And really, who doesn't?!

My girlfriend, Jackie decided that she wanted to have a New Years Eve party at her house this year. I was super excited because up until last year {when she took me to Seattle for my birthday} I hadn't really ever done anything for New Years Eve. The Hubs likes to stay at home, rather than be out there with all the people who have had a bit too much to drink. So, to my delight the Hubs said that he would go with me! I was super excited!

After the Hubs got off work {and I finished shopping...ahem} we were on our way to Jackie's house! When we got there I was really excited because she had a great turn out {she lives what seems like forever out of town, so sometimes people don't like driving out that far}. As we were walking up to the house, I turned to my Hubby and made a comment about how dark the house was for a place that was having a party. I thought maybe they started a movie {we were a little bit late}, but it was pretty early for that. Then I thought maybe the guys were playing some video game. I walked into the house and could hear people talking, but I wasn't really paying that much attention. After I made it down the hall, Jackie flipped on the lights and yelled "Surprise!!"

Surprise is an understatement! I had no clue that she was planning a surprise for me, especially since it wasn't my birthday yet! I was so excited that I was getting to share my birthday with so many people that I love! And it fit me perfectly! There was lots of pink going on in that house. One of my friends told me that her son had asked her if the party was for a little girl...and she told him yes. :) So cute!

A little bit later they took me to the kitchen so that they could grab my birthday present. I had to cover my eyes while they maneuvered me into the hallway. When I uncovered my eyes this is what I saw:

They all went in together to get me this bike that I fell in love with at the beginning of last year! I had no idea and was so surprised! I love it and can't wait for my bike ride with Jackie this weekend to break it in. After they gave me my adorable bike, I got to open my gift from my hubby. He bought me a Kindle!

I have been wanting one, especially for our trip to Paris at the end of this month! I love it and think its perfect!

It was the sweetest birthday, which I was super thankful for because today is the day that I turn 30!!

I can't believe I actually just said that! Yes, the big 3-0! I have felt like throwing up all week on top of being super excited! I can't really figure out how I really feel about it. I just keep telling people that as long as people continue to think that I am younger than I actually am {my coffee girl, Glory, thought I meant 25 when I said it was "the big one." I like her!}. So, rather than trying to figure out my real feelings, I am just going to embrace it and try to enjoy it.

Thank you to all my friends and family for their sweet cards, precious gifts, and for all their love. My party was perfect and I can't wait for part two of my birthday tonight!

Which birthday did you have a tough time with?

Awkward & Awesome!

2012-01-05T11:22:00.000-08:00

Good morning and welcome to a long time coming Awkward & Awesome post!! :) Still trying to get back into the swing of things. I might be a bit rusty, but let's give it a go anyway, shall we?

Awkward

~ I have a difficult time following directions. When cooking its normal and expected that I will forget at least one step, and in some cases, forget the main ingredient in a meal. I am lucky to have such a sweet and understanding husband who puts up with me and my quirks as well as he does. Earlier this week I came home for lunch and decided to make Easy Mac. The name in itself is quite inviting for someone like me. I mean, hello, it has "easy" in the name! It couldn't be that hard, right?! I got it all ready, threw that bad boy in the microwave, and walked away. I made it around the corner before turning around, sprinting to the microwave, threw the door open, and grabbed the container quickly. I realized I had forgotten to add water. The last time this happened {sadly, I did this the first week at my job...} I didn't realize that I forgot until there was black smoke billowing out of the microwave. Needless to say that lunch was destroyed along with the microwave. Luckily I realized my mistake in time! My husband said, "its a good thing you are beautiful because, man, you really can't make mac and cheese."

~ One of things I love most about where we live is that we have a fireplace. I am good at making fires, which just makes me extra happy. My husband decided that we didn't need to buy wood anymore for it though, but that instead we should just use cardboard because it makes a big fire and is warm really quickly. I, personally, think its ridiculous, but he is my little pyro and the joy on his face is perfect! The other day I came home to a huge amount of cardboard in the middle of the living room. I didn't realize just how serious he was. Now we have zero firewood and a plethora of cardboard. What's a girl to do??

~ As I am sure most of you have figured out, I am a girly girl. I have been painting my fingernails like a crazy person {well, that's what they look like when I am finished with 'em}. Sometimes I will paint them three different times in one week. The sad part is that, although I am painting them all the time, it seems like I am getting worse at it the more I do it. I typically look like I got into a fight with the nail polish and it beat me, badly. I have also come to realize that I really only have one color, pink. I just happen to have a gazillion different shades of it! Time to branch out!

Awesome

~ Getting to spend Christmas with friends and family

~ Calling my parents on Christmas Eve and having the phone passed around to most of my relatives so that we could talk!

~ Being with my family for Thanksgiving and getting to see my nephew take his first steps at my house!

~ Babysitting our nephews and getting to hang out with them...they are so cute!

~ Trying to get my blogging back to normal

~ T-Minus 23 days until PARIS!!!

This reminds me, I am looking for some bloggers who would like to guest post for me while I am gone. If that is something that you are interested in. please email me at: nataliesmith82@gmail.com

I would love to chat with you about it! :)

So, what are your awkward and awesome moments as of late? Spill it! :)

PS-My friend, Jill over at Made it on Monday has taken her crafting skills and entered into another competition and she could use your vote! :) Voting closes tonight at 8PM!

Go HERE and vote for her! This is what she made and I am in love with it!!

Isn't it beautiful!?!

Recap and a Bit of Fashion

2012-01-04T08:00:00.000-08:00

My, oh, my! Its been quite a while since my last post. I apologize. Between the holidays and life just going crazy I felt the need to not blog for a bit, lest I become completely overwhelmed. I am trying to get back into the swing of things and since its the beginning of the New Year, why not start now?! :)

Here are just a couple of pics that I could find of a little bit of what I have been up to:

The amazing people I get to work with in the youth group

Our senior class Christmas party...let the good times roll!

and since its Wednesday...why not a little bit of what I wore {or more like what I will wear}:

Welcome to the Kohl's dressing room...these are my new shirts...and I love them!!

So, lets catch up! What have you been up to? How was your Christmas? I have missed you all and I am so glad that I am back! :)

Misc. Monday

2011-11-28T08:29:00.001-08:00

Good morning and welcome to another Monday! I hope that your Thanksgiving was fabulous and filled with lots of family and fun! :)

Pie

We hosted Thanksgiving at our house this year. It was a lot of fun just hanging out with family and friends. This year was also the very first time I have ever made a pie and let me tell you...I was quite impressed with me! haha! :) I wasn't really sure how my first attempt was going to go. Its me and I tend to not pay attention to directions and end up forgetting something important {like rice this one time when I was making chicken and rice...}, but it turned out really pretty, it tasted good, and no one died! I figure its a win-win-win! :)

Thanksgiving and Friday...its all a blurr

I am normally a HUGE black Friday shopper. This year, however, I wasn't. I had a migraine all of Thanksgiving and when it came time to leave my house to hit the stores, I just couldn't and didn't want to. I never thought I would utter those words, but I did. I needed to sleep and not be out in the cold and the rain. Plus, I had to work the whole day on Friday {typically we split the day into two shifts so that we work less hours that day}. We aren't really doing gifts this year anyway, so its probably best for our finances that I didn't go out and go shopping! :) Plus, I got to put my lights up at my desk {and my tree this morning!!}. :) Now my desk is happy.

Music

I am officially allowed to listen to Christmas music at work now!! It makes me so happy! I would listen to it in October {and I typically do in my car at very least} at work, but we have a rule now, so I can't. I love using Pandora, so I have a couple Christmas stations set up for my listening pleasure. Do you like Christmas music??

Tree

I am still trying to convince the Hubs that we need to get a Christmas tree. He has told me no every year since we got married, but we end up getting one, so I am holding onto hope that we will get one again this year. Plus, I figure if we could fork out the dough when we lived in California, we can definitely fork out $15 for a tree here in Oregon...waaaay less expensive! :) Do you have a tree yet?

How was your Thanksgiving? Did you brave the crazies on black Friday?

Misc. Monday

2011-11-21T08:16:00.001-08:00

Well, happy Monday!! I am really excited for this week because of the holiday and the fact that its a four day work week for me {three if you are super lucky and get Friday off as well}!

Weather

It has been cold the past couple of days. Our forecast for snow Saturday and Sunday, but sadly we did not receive any. I was bummed because I figure if its going to be cold we should at least get something pretty out of it! :) Our temps for the week are forecast to be in the high 40's, which cracks me up because our highs are still lower {or as low} as lows forecasted in my hometown where our family lives! I love this time of year. The leaves on the trees are vibrant reds and yellows and just all around gorgeous. Fall and winter are two of my favorite seasons and two of the reasons why I really love Oregon.

Puppies

I am not a dog person. The only dogs I seem to "like" in any way is if they are the size of a cat. I am most definitely a cat person. Then I met little Willow. I would tell you what kind of puppy she is, but frankly, I didn't really care and couldn't remember what they said if I tried. All you really need to know is that she is adorable and has, in some ways, changed my thoughts on dogs. I would still want a little dog, but I think I realized this weekend that I like puppies a whole lot more than I thought I did.

Proud Wife

Tomorrow my Hubby is leading his very first Intro to Scuba class! I am super excited for him and so proud! Its pretty cool, especially since he will know all the students since most of them are high school students that graduated last year or his sister! It will just make it that much more fun and memorable for him. :) Way to go my Dive Master! :)

Inconsistent

I know I have been all over the place lately and I apologize. I am trying to get back into the swing of things. A lot has been going on and work is starting to get crazy since we are entering into my busiest time of the year {just shoot me now!}. So, please bear with me if I remain inconsistent. I promise, it won't last forever! :)

How was your weekend?? Do you have big Thanksgiving plans?

Awkward & Awesome

2011-11-14T11:25:00.001-08:00

Its been a while, but not due to lack of awkward things...but here you go!

Awkward

~Spilling mineral foundation in your car and not realizing that it also somehow managed to get in between a strap on the back of your boot. Then walking around the office making everything "pretty" with foundation.

~Getting up in front of the entire women's retreat and having it announced {with my permission for an ice breaker. The ladies had to match an interesting fact with the right person} that I had dislocated both knees within six months of each other...while sitting down. That part wasn't too bad. It was more of the fact that people who knew me knew that the dislocated knee thing while sitting down was something that only I would do. Its true, its funny, its a little embarrassing, but hey-its stuff like that, that keeps my blog interesting, ya know?

~Having a conversation like this almost every day, "she's on her phone, would you like to hold or would you like her voicemail?" "yes, please." "um, to which one? Would you like to hold or would you like her voicemail?"

~Finding out last night just exactly what Grease is all about and what some of the lyrics in that movie mean. Oy vey!

~Learning how to chop wood. When swinging the ax for the first time closing my eyes and turning my head away from the wood only to have my "teacher" freak out and prepare to jump between me and the ax. I hit the wood and then it was explained to me that I have to keep my eyes open. Apparently this is something crucial. Who knew?

Awesome

~Having a Sing-Off watching and nail painting night with my girlie, Porshla!

~Dinner last night with friends

~Having a good conversation with one of my high school girls

~Having my desk looking very pink, lit up and ready for Christmas!

~Getting to have the first fire of the year this week!

~Finally getting my bulletin board put up at my crafting area. Now it looks more complete! Let the jewelry hanging begin!!

What was awkward or awesome about your week??

Misc. Monday

2011-11-14T10:45:00.001-08:00

Good morning and welcome to...

Hotels

Apparently the "new" thing at hotels is not actually having a comforter, but a blanket in between the sheets. Not sure who came up with that idea, but lucky for me I always bring my own pillow and blanket when I travel. A little piece of home so that I feel comfortable.

Women's Retreat

This weekend was women's retreat and our speaker was A-mazing. We were lucky enough to have Jennifer Strickland join us and share with us her story. She wrote the book Girl Perfect. I need to go grab a copy of her book, so that I can read it. She was great because she was so real with us. You should google hear and read her bio. Its so amazing to me, how God can take us from the darkest pits of despair and make us whole, clean, and new again. She truly has a powerful story.

Outlet Mall

I love them. :) I got to go on Saturday and I have to say, they are hit and miss, but this weekend I found some really great items for not very much at all. I was quite impressed with myself. Yay me! ;)

Friends

It always amazes me how blessed I am with the friends that God has placed in my life. This weekend was just another example of that. It was a great weekend for rekindling old friendship, strengthening existing friendships, and starting new ones.

Thanks to all the women who made this retreat possible. The hard work, prayer, time, and dedication that you put into it, is greatly appreciated. You are all amazing!

How was your weekend? What did you do?

What I'm Lovin'-Shannon's Sparklies

2011-11-11T08:44:00.000-08:00

I am super excited to introduce you my real life and uber talented friend, Shannon, from Shannon's Sparklies. She so genuine and such a sweetheart! Just look at all the beautiful things she has made:

Gorgeous, right?!

Here is a little bit about her and her shop:

My name is Shannon and I just got married this year to the greatest, most supportive man in the world! I am currently not working, so one of the things I LOVE to do is make homemade jewelry. I just got into making jewelry a couple months ago, and its something i really enjoy. I am also involved with California's Southern Baptist Disaster Relief organization and I travel around quite a bit helping people who have been affected by natural disasters by doing emotional and spiritual care, cleaning up properties, etc. Of course when I travel, I am always on the look out for things to use for making my jewelry! So, many of my pieces are created using things I have come across on my adventures.

She was kind enough to send me one of her necklaces and I love it! Its really light, cute, and I am finding all sorts of things to wear it with. I didn't realize I had as many options as I do! Yay me! Here is what she sent me:

Isn't it beautiful!?

Being the sweet person that she is, she is offering YOU, my lovely readers, 10% off your purchase at her shop. Just enter the code "Nataliereaders" when you check out! I hope that you stop by and see all of the amazing pieces that she has created!

Awkward & Awesome!

2011-11-10T10:43:00.000-08:00

Happy Thursday! I have to say I am ready for this week to be over because I am excited for this weekend! How about you?!

Awkward

~Walking into the subway inside of Walmart and having everyone look up at the same time and stare at you. Definitely double checked my clothing to make sure something wasn't amiss.

~Trying on a skirt at Old Navy and coming out of the dressing room to ask Jackie if my skirt looked see-thru to her and finding out that yes, it indeed was incredibly see-thru and that you could see everything. Thank goodness for slips {because darn it all! It was a cute skirt and really on clearance}!

~Watching the Sind-off and having one of the groups singing a Carrie Underwood song and finally realizing that I had been singing the wrong words this whole time to the song Before He Cheats. What I thought she was saying was, "with a blue stick showing her how to shoot a combo." What she actually said was, "with a pool stick showing her how to shoot a combo." I figured since I haven't ever really been to a bar that it was some kind of alcohol drink thing. Let's just say with I get these "epiphanies" they are always in front of someone and they are always out loud. Needless to say the Hubs and Travis got a kick out of it. Yes, I have been singing it wrong for years now.

~Walking into Applebees for a date with the Hubs only to realize that 1-It was karaoke night 2-It was super loud and you couldn't hear a thing the person next to you was saying...so conversations with the Hubs were tough...and so was ordering and 3-people really take their karaoke seriously.

Awesome

~Convo I had with the Hubs:

Him-"I love your new haircut. Its so sexy."

Me-"Thanks! I'm glad because I love it! How did you see it? You're still at work?"

Him-"I imagined it. Haven't seen you yet, but boy the it brings out your eyes..."

Me-"LOL thanks sweetheart!"

Him-"I love making you smile."

I am one blessed woman to have such a great man for my Hubby. :)

~Date with the Hubs last night.

~Hearing about a conversation that two people had about me on Sunday...I will try not to butcher what they said:

TF-"Our Nat is so girly today"

TW-"Yeah, she is. I do everything I can to get her dirty {i.e. being outside, changing the oil...etc.}"

TF-"Can she even get dirty?"

TW-"When she gets mud on her it just turns pink and sparkly."

It made me laugh, so I thought I would share. Oh and take that Cullens. You just sparkle, but I get pink and sparkly. Nat-1 Vampires-0

~Women's retreat that is starting tomorrow! So excited!!

~Getting a sweet card from my girlfriend in CA and a letter from her youngest daughter...just because. Made my day!

~Having your friend's kitty snuggle with you and sleep in your lap while watching a movie.

What was awkward and/or awesome about your week?!

What I Wore

2011-11-09T08:00:00.000-08:00

Its been a couple weeks since I last did one of these and I apologize. I have been a bad blogger, but I am here now and with pictures to share! On we go!!

Inspiration

My version

Inspiration

My Version

shorts-Old Navy $20, Shirt-Mom's Closet hand me down $free, scarf-Old Navy $6, Boots-Kohl's

Inspiration

All inspirations via Pinterest

My Version

Dress-Old Navy $10, Belt-Romy's $1, Boots-Kohl's, Jacket-Plato's Closet $10, Tights-Kohl's

What have been your favorite clothing items so far this fall?

Misc. Monday

2011-11-07T11:15:00.000-08:00

Wow! It feels like forever since I have done one of these! So sorry for being all over the place lately!! Onward we go...

Craft Show

This weekend Jackie and I did a craft show together. She worked it all day Friday while I was at work and we sold one thing. It was so sad getting texts from her saying that people liked our stuff, but just weren't buying it. I joined her on Saturday and it really was quite hilarious to watch people exclaim how beautiful they thought our items were, to "ooh" and "ahh" over them, to call their friends over to see, but then place it back down on the table and walk away. We did eventually end up selling some items, but not nearly as many as I thought. The good news is we made a little bit of money, so we didn't eat the entry fee, which was nice. It was also exciting to see which items people loved the most and to know that people really do like what you made, even if they don't buy it. Oh well, it was fun and I did sell some necklaces, so I really can't complain! :)

Hubby

We have been super busy lately and it seems like my schedule and the Hubby's schedule keep making us miss each other. I miss him. I decided that we were going on a date this week, but then I look at our schedules and realized that was going to be tough to arrange, especially since I will be at women's retreat this weekend and he will be diving. So, we are doing a short dinner date before youth group {sorry about missing the leaders meeting, but this is way more important}. I am really excited! I can't wait to have some one-on-one time with the only interruption being our waiter/waitress. I am excited to be spending some time with that handsome man that I love and married. :)

Movies

I love movies. A lot. Lately, Jackie, Travis, Porsh, and myself seem to start movies, but never end up finishing them. Saturday after church we went back to their house to hang out. We ended up finishing all of the movies that we had started. I felt like we really accomplished something. Then we started the second Lord of the Rings movie....yeah, we have to start our "movies to finish" list all over again!

How was your weekend? What did you do?

What I'm Lovin'

2011-11-04T12:46:00.000-07:00

So, I have been ready for a change. Maybe its the change in seasons or something, but what I really want to do is chop off all my hair {hello, huge short hair fan over here!}. If I did though, that would make the Hubs so sad. Here is a rough idea of what my hair has looked like lately:

Normally when I go in to get my hair cut I know exactly what I want and have a picture for her. This time I think I brought in six pictures and told her to just do whatever she thought was good. And this is how it turned out:

Although she really didn't do too much {made my bangs thicker, cut a little bit of length, and added in long layers} for it to be a drastic change, which is typically what I love doing, I am in love with it! :) I think if my hair were a different color I probably wouldn't like it as much. The color and haircut combo is perfect! :)

What are you lovin' this week??

Awkward & Awesome

2011-11-03T12:25:00.000-07:00

You didn't think I would forget about today did you??

Awkward

~Having pictures to post for Wednesday's "What I Wore" post, but forgetting to upload them onto the computer in time for the post. Yes, I am that bad!

~Getting ready to leave the church and trying to get your door open. You stick the key in, but it only goes in half way and feels like something is stuck. So, you try again and again, flipping the key around thinking that it might help. After about five minutes you finally look into the car and realize, yep...wrong Honda. Trying to break into someone's car in the church parking lot is probably worse than doing that anywhere else. Luckily, I think the Fed Ex guy was the only one to see my blunder.

~Having to re-ask the boss for time off for our Paris vacation...for the third time. Trying to schedule four people's schedules is complicated.

~Being so {and I mean SO} incredibly grumpy last week that you had to not only warn people before they saw you, but also had to spend a majority of this week apologizing to people. Grumpy Nat=Lots of apologies...sorry again, Hubs!

~Getting kids bubble gum from Halloween stuck to your teeth at work and not being smart enough to get it out in a timely manner. Don't judge. I am sticking to adult bubble gum from now on.

~Trying to find pumpkin puree, but not having any idea what it is and, therefore, having no idea what to look for.

Awesome

~ Being sooo close to having our car paid off! Yippee!

~Still going to Paris for our vacation...super excited! :)

~Knowing that your family and friends love you despite being super emotional and crazy grumpy. Thanks guys! You're the best!

~Great conversations with the Hubs

~Going to Fright Night in Portland with fun people...and getting completely freaked out! So fun!

~Blasting Britney Spears with your girlfriend in a car full of boys and singing your hearts out...dance moves and hand motions included :) They can't hold us back!

~ Rain boots. I'm tellin' ya, they are awesome!

What was awkward and awesome about your week?

Halloween & Still Here!

2011-11-01T11:35:00.000-07:00

I have been a very bad blogger as of late and I apologize. Things have been crazy busy and I have had lots of migraines, which make the whole "thinking" thing painful. But I am here now! :)

I don't normally dress up for Halloween. I do, however, wear my tiara from my wedding ever year. Really. I wear it just to hand out candy to little kids.

This was me with my nephew a couple years ago...just to prove my point

This year, however, it was decided that we would dress up for Halloween at work. I have never been one for "ugly" or "scary" costumes, but I also didn't want to spend much money on something I would wear just once. I thought about what was in my closet and decided that Audrey Hepburn would be perfect for me! I went with a classic...Breakfast at Tiffany's:

Here is what I came up with:

and here are what some of the lovely ladies from work came up with:

Yay for fun office days!

Janet and myself

Melody and myself

Oh, and because they are too stinkin' cute not to share...here are my nephews {all but one} and my niece:

Taylor looking all grown up and adorable

Jayden being the little stud that he is

Our very own super heroes Logan & Brycen

How was your Halloween? Did you dress up? What were some of your favorite costumes that you saw last night?

What I'm Lovin'

2011-10-28T11:18:00.000-07:00

Ever have one of those days where you wake up and you just know its going to be bad? Then you get coffee because that always makes it better, but this time it doesn't? Yeah, welcome to my day. Its Friday and I am thankful for that. This week I am lovin' uplifting, encouraging, and reminder type statements and verses to help me focus on the good and not the bad and to remind me where my strength comes from. Here are some that I am especially lovin' right now:

All images via Pinterest

Have a happy Friday and a great weekend!

Awkward & Awesome!!

2011-10-27T08:32:00.000-07:00

So, um, sorry that I kinda disappeared this week from blogging. Monday night was really horrible for me. I had a massive migraine and nothing would touch it. Basically there were tears and lots of pain. I still had the migraine on Tuesday, and then yesterday I was so out of it because of everything that I am taking that I forgot to make a post. I do have pictures of what I wore...so I might just have to throw those up tomorrow. :)

But today its time for another round of

Awkward

~Scrolling through Pinterest and coming across lingerie that you own...not something I ever talk about, but still totally awkward...even if the Hubs and I are the only ones who know about it.

~Being in a hurry to find your phone so that you can text someone that just left your house, but not finding where you set it down at. You have your hubby call your phone and you can hear it, but can't see it. So, you have him call you three times while you tear apart the couch and the blankets on the couch...only to realize that it was in your pocket the entire time...welcome to a typical day in the life of me.

~Calling the neurologist for the third time in two days because you still haven't heard back from anyone. Then they tell you that your doctor was in the office today and so was another doctor, but no one returned my call. Being so upset on the phone {because migraines hurt} that you break down and cry...then miraculously, the doctor who "already left for the day" got on the phone to talk to you. Yay tears.

~After taking the meds that you already have for migraines that make you both dizzy and drowsy, you get a third thing to take from the Dr. "who left for the day" and it says that it "may" cause dizziness and drowsiness. You take it at a friend's house and later, as the friend was driving you home, you get really sleepy and end up falling asleep in the car. You are so out of it by the time you get home that he has to carry you up to your house. Let's face it, I have great friends. :)

~The doctor's office that you left a message for finally calls you back...three days later. This was more infuriating than awkward, but the person who called me back felt a bit awkward when I explained that I had already spoken with someone the day before...when I called back for the third time.

Awesome

~Almost having all the funds raised for women's retreat!

~Going to a dark corn maze this coming weekend

~Finding my keys that I lost last weekend! I finally got to check my mail :)

~Getting meds that will hopefully cut through my migraines and allow the other meds to start working

~Having a great hubby and great friends who help take care of me when I am hurting

What awkward and awesome things did you do this week??

Misc. Monday!

2011-10-24T08:38:00.000-07:00

Good morning!! :) I hope your weekend was fabulous and that your week is starting out just as great!

Bauman Farms

This weekend I went to Bauman Farms for a fall fun filled Saturday. It was a blast! We went through the dark maze twice. The second time I went through I went with Porshla and we ended up getting separated from everything and ended up completely lost. After a while I finally told her that we were just going to sit down and wait for one of our peeps to find us. Unfortunately for me, I have no upper body strength to pull myself up on the tall hay bales. Luckily, Porsh is strong, but even luckier for us is that Travis found us just when Porsh was getting ready to boost me up! We ran through corn, walked through the pumpkin patch, swung on swings, and went through the apple tasting section that they have {um, yummy by the way}. It was lots of fun. I love going every year!

PS-obstacle courses make a person sore...I can barely move today!

This is my picture with my hubby...since he couldn't join us because of work, I wanted him to know that we missed him :)

Cars

I know nothing about cars {huge surprise, I know}, but my friend Travis does. Saturday night he had to work on his car that was at our house. The last time I tried to "help" him I got to hold the light, but since I know nothing about cars I was shining it where I thought it he wanted me to, but it turns out that I didn't get even close. He basically fixed it in the dark and didn't have the heart to say anything to me. This time around on this car I said I would be "light girl" again and help, but that I needed direction. Even though he couldn't finish fixing the car because he had to order another part, he told me where to shine the light and he was able to see what he was working on. I think I just figured out my Halloween costume....Natalie is...light girl! Dun na na na!

Its a shorter miscellany Monday, but hey! I threw in pictures for you. :) Yay me! How was your weekend? Did you do anything exciting?

What I'm Lovin'

2011-10-21T08:40:00.000-07:00

This week I am lovin' new {to me} eye makeup ideas and tutorials. Here are some of my faves:

All Images via Pinterest

How do you like to wear your makeup? Are you a natural type of person, do you like it bold, or are you somewhere in the middle?

Awkward & Awesome

2011-10-20T08:23:00.000-07:00

Its that time...you know the one where I tell you all the dumb things that I did during the week?? Yeah, that one! Okay, here it goes...

Awkward

~ On Sunday, rather than having our normal youth service, we switched things up and had the students join us in the main sanctuary {we are trying to encourage them to attend on their own so that they are better connected with the rest of the congregation}. I ended up getting to church late and all the seats were taken up front with the rest of the students. When I came in everyone was standing and greeting one another, but there were two freshmen that didn't have seats and they couldn't find their leader. I decided that I would grab them and we would sit together in the back. They found a seat and I ended up sitting next to a guy that I didn't know. Normally its not a big deal, but after the first worship song started the girl directly next to me got up and never came back. Then when the sermon started the other girl ended up moving two more spots away from me. So, here I am, awkwardly {and a little uncomfortably} sitting next to some guy I don't know and now it looks like we are a couple because there are three seats between me and the girl that I didn't really know, but was trying to help out. I wasn't sure what to do. If I moved over a seat, would that have been more awkward than just sitting next to him? I couldn't decide, so I stuck it out and just sat next to him, but was secretly hoping that church would hurry up and end so that I could move without drawing attention to myself.

~The guy who lives on the street behind us who likes to walk his boa...totally serious. Makes me want to lock my doors when I drive by...eww.

~Being super excited about an outfit with teal tights, only to have the Hubs tell me that I look like an Orc...a cute Orc, but an Orc none-the-less.

~Feeling super cute in a fun and cute outfit, but then you get out of your car to walk up the drive way towards your house. As you are walking you step on a rock and do that weird wobble thing...you know, the one where your arms do that crazy wavy thing? Yeah. Then you keep walking once you regain control of your limbs and walk like nothing happened and no one saw...well, you hope at least.

~Walking into the bathroom at work at seeing "it"...a daddy long legged spider on the wall. You quietly and quickly contemplate if you can pee fast enough to not have to worry about it getting you, but realize that you are wearing tights. Those things are awesome, but definitely slow down the speed to which you can leave the bathroom. As you are staring at the spider you realize that its kind of like you. Long legged and completely uncoordinated. That silly thing was half walking/half falling on/off the wall. You finally come to the conclusion that the only way to pee in peace is to end its klutzy suffering by squishing it with toilet paper and quickly throwing it in the trash. So long, Spider!

Awesome

~The coat my hubby bought me...and the sweet fact that he picked it out just for me...all by himself. He's so good and I am so lucky! :)

~Going to Bauman Farms this weekend to see animals, pumpkins, and all sorts of other fun fall-ish things! :)

~Hitting 800 followers this week...almost yelled in church...so excited!

~Realizing that our Paris trip is right around the corner!!

~Our real wood burning fireplace. I haven't used it yet, but I almost can {now I just have to learn how to make a fire}

~The blue tights that I ordered!! I can't wait to get them and wear them! :)

~Coffee dates with friends

What are your awesome and awkward moments from the week? You know you wanna share {and I wanna hear}!

What I Wore

2011-10-19T08:00:00.000-07:00

I am not sure if you remember, but last week I did a post about fall styles that I am in love with. Well, this week I tried a couple of them out {and have or will try more this week}. So, not only do I have the regular what I wore, but I also have some "what I tried" outfits for you. One of them I was not happy with the pictures, but its all I have, so we will just pretend that it looks better than it does {I'll give you a hint...its the purple outfit}.

My version...I forgot to take a pic with the heels on...I think the whole outfit is from Kohl's :)

Boots-Kohl's, Belt-Maurices, Shirt-Dress Barn, Sweater-Old Navy or Gap

And here are the rest of my outfits:

Sweater-I think Ann Taylor Loft several years ago, Dress-Kohl's, Shoes-Kohls, Necklace-Lovely Afterthoughts

I can't remember where any of this is from except for the shoes-Fred Meyer on clearance $5

Jeans-Old Navy $8.97, Tank-I think Kohls, Boots-Kohls $30, Sweater-Old Navy $8

Hat-Charlotte Russe, Scarf- Old Navy, Shoes-Fred Meyer, Shirt-Plato's Closet $8, Jeans-I think Ross

What did you wear this week that you just love??

Love & Coats

2011-10-18T08:43:00.000-07:00

Saturday night when I got home from church, my Hubby called me into our bedroom and pulled this out of a Kohl's bag! How adorable is that?! When his store first got them in he sent me a picture of it and said that he thought it would be perfect for me. I really liked it, but the full retail price is $220. Since my cap for just about anything I buy is $20...well, that just a little bit above that don't cha think? He liked the coat so much he put it on hold and there it has sat since they first got them in. Until Saturday. I guess there were lots of sales and discounts going on that brought the price down to something that we could afford. So, he picked it up and brought it home for me as a surprise. And I was!! :) I love it! It fits perfectly and is super adorable!! The best part is that he got a great deal on this little baby! $59.50 is not too shabby, 'eh?!

Kohl's-Apt. 9

What type of coats are you in love with at the moment? What is something super sweet that your significant other has done for you?

Thank you sweetheart for a ridiculously amazing coat! :) I love you and it!

Misc. Monday!

2011-10-17T10:32:00.000-07:00

Good foggy Monday morning {here at least}! I hope your weekend was pleasant and fun-filled!

Old Navy

I have decided that Old Navy is my friend, mostly because they had good deals this weekend. We typically have a love/hate relationship. I love it when the deals are great and hate it when they disappoint. On Friday I sent Jackie a text telling her I wanted hit Old Navy up this weekend. She asked me why and I responded with, "because they sent me an email!" Yes, those dumb promotion things work on me...every time! Anyway, they had a great sale. Their clearance was and extra 30% off and tons of other things were 75% off. Needless to say, I will have some great buys to show you later this week! :)

Silver Creek Falls

Saturday morning was chilly and overcast, so Jackie and I "geared up," grabbed her dog, and hit the trail. We went hiking on the trail at Silver Creek Falls and it was gorgeous! I was really excited about going back since the leaves are all changing and it was definitely worth it! It was so much fun. It was a nice to time just chatting, hiking, and enjoy the beauty that God created. Its times like those, when everything is quiet, and you are surrounded by nature that I am blown away by everything God made. Its breath-taking. We are going back when there is snow and I can't wait. It will definitely be worth any effort it takes to get there.

Sunday Afternoons

I love Sunday afternoons. They are usually relaxing and just fun! :) This Sunday was particularly fun. I had a leaders meeting for the high school leaders and I normally dread them because they are repetitive, long, and kind of boring. Not the case this month. I actually found myself enjoying it. It was different, not repetitive, entertaining {some of those leaders are hilarious!}, and we actually got out on time! That in itself was impressive! :) Afterwards, Jackie and I bought hair dye and then went to Old Navy. Then we went back to her house and dyed my hair. Yay me! :) Then we watched a movie. It was relaxing and enjoyable. I think that's how all Sundays should be.

How was your weekend? What was the highlight for you?

What I'm Lovin'

2011-10-14T08:24:00.000-07:00

Mmmm....shoes. Yes, I am lovin' shoes today! With the weather quickly changing here in Oregon my shoes are changing just as fast! I am most definitely in need of a new pair of rainboots. I am fully embracing an Oregon fall...so those are a must! Here are some of the shoes I am falling for {bahahahaha!} this season:

All pics via Pinterest

What footwear are you dying to sport this fall?

Awkward & Awesome!

2011-10-13T10:35:00.000-07:00

Why hello!! :) Its Thursday!! Hooray! We made it! Not only is it the day before the weekend starts, but its also...

Awkward

~Going to a tire store with your guy friend because he speaks "car" and then having the guy behind the counter ask you questions that you don't know the answers to. So rather than saying "I'm not sure" or "what do you suggest" you just stare at the computer screen then at the guy behind the counter and then at your friend with huge "I'm confused" eyes. Luckily he speaks "Natalie" and jumped on in and helped a girl out! :)

~Getting hit with a dizzy spell out of nowhere and flailing your arms around like a crazy person because you are trying to catch your balance, but no one around you knows what's going on and you just end up looking like you are losing your mind.

~Almost passing out at work. I have decided that it would not be an ideal location...home. Yes, home would be a much better place.

~Wearing lace tights in the rain. Although it looks awesome your legs get really wet like you are just wearing shorts or something. Then trying to dry yourself off a little bit always looks weird.

~Walking into a frozen yogurt shop and waiting for your friend that you are meeting to show up, but then you end up waiting twenty minutes {its ok, I still love you!! :) } looking a little pathetic just sitting there alone. Then you try to find something to make you look busy and less like you got stood up :)

Awesome

~Staying at a friend's house while the hubby is out of state playing in the ocean...my little scuba diver :)

~New Girl the new tv show that is on. I have said it before, but I love that show. It cracks me up like nothing else!

~The Sing-Off...yes, its pretty amazing!

~The Hubs birthday that was on Monday...birthdays are awesome!

~My Mom's birthday that was yesterday...Happy birthday, Mom!! You are awesome!!

What are your awesome and awkward moments from the week?

Welcome to Fall

2011-10-11T08:18:00.000-07:00

With fall in full force here in Oregon, I have been scoping out different color schemes and styles of clothing that I want to try out and wear this chilly season. Here are some of the ones that jump out at me. Two that I really like, but that I am afraid to try {not sure if I can pull them off} are shorts with tights and leopard print {in a very small dose}.

All images via Pinterest

What are some the styles and colors schemes that jump out at you this season that you are just dying to try? Are you brave enough to actually go through with it??

Misc. Monday

2011-10-10T11:36:00.000-07:00

Good morning!! Happy Monday! I hope your week is off to a great start!!

Birthday Lovin'

Today is my wonderful Hubby's birthday!! Woo!! I am a birthday lover...and a lover of the birthday boy! Nice how that worked out, huh?! He's pretty much the smartest, most awesome man that I know. Lucky me!! :) Anyways, happy birthday, lover! I am lucky to have you. You are a fantastic husband, a perfect friend, and I am one lucky woman!! I am so glad that God blessed me with you, that you chose me the first time you saw me, and that you pursued me for so long even when people told you that you were crazy {you kinda were, but it worked out for me, so yay!!}! I love you so much and hope that your birthday is fantastic!!

LOTR

If you know what that means without me explaining, you are awesome. If not, you are ok...hehe just kidding. I spent the weekend at Jackie's house while the hubs was out searching for octopus' while he was diving {found 4 huge ones apparently...glad I was a state away and on land!}. While I was there we whipped out a little Lord of the Rings action. Awww yeeah! I think I forgot how hot Legolas was. Don't worry, I got my Legolas fix in. That is one hot elf! :) Turns out that the hubs was glad he was diving. He really hates Legolas. Poor Hubby. It was wonderful for me though...six house of hot blonde elf-ness going on. That's a weekend well spent! :)

Tires

Apparently, tires go bald. I thought it was just a old man hair thing, but tires get it too. So sad. I had to replace two tires over the weekend. That was not how I wanted to spend my money, but everyone kept telling me I needed to, so to get them to be quiet {I do love you all, thanks for looking out for me and my safety...even when I try to ignore you} I went out, sucked it up, and bought them. To make it less painful, I only bought two. I can handle that a little bit better. I would have rather bought a coat than tires, but I guess I did the right thing. I hate spending money on vehicles. Don't you?!

How was your weekend?! I hope you had a great one...only four more days until the next one {we will just pretend today is almost finished, k?}!! Woo!

What I'm Lovin'!

2011-10-07T08:00:00.000-07:00

This week I am lovin' my hubby. With his work schedule and the other things we have going on, we haven't really been able to see much of each other. So, I am lovin' {and missing} him. He is also gone this weekend. He is diving. I know, big surprise, huh?! :) But, this is his first weekend as an official Dive Master! Hooray for hubby! :) I am so proud of him. While I am bummed he is leaving me for the weekend, I am excited for him {and I already have plans to help keep me occupied}. It may be cheesy {and he might just kill me for doing a post all about him}, but I don't care. I love him! :)

I miss him already and he's only been gone a couple hours...le sigh...its going to be a long, albeit fun, weekend. :)

What are you lovin' this week?

Awkward & Awesome

2011-10-06T08:28:00.000-07:00

Good morning! Welcome to another...

Awkward

~Waking up in the middle of the night and seeing your hubby just staring at you. You stare back and say "hi." He then asks you if you are okay, which you find confusing because a minute ago you were fast asleep. So you say yes and then he proceeds to tell you that you were grinding your teeth again...something you only do when you are really stressed out. Now if only you could figure out what stressed you out...

~The Hubs and I were chatting and he started talking about Rob Zombie. I had never heard of the guy {still have no idea who it is}, but his name sounded ridiculous, so I asked the Hubs if Rob changed his last name to Zombie. He said, "Yes sweetheart. He was not born a zombie." Soooo not what I meant. Stinker.

~Almost passing out before work on Tuesday and having to have your friend stay with you so that you hubby could go to work.

~Calling a tire place and having to ask questions that you don't really know what the answers are. Then having the guy talk so fast and mumble that you can't understand anything he says. Then he asks you a question and you just say, "thanks!" He asks you again because "thanks" isn't an answer that goes with the question, but you still didin't catch the question, so you say "thanks" again and then hang up really fast. Its not my fault. I don't speak car. If you don't enunciate, don't be surprised that this girl has no idea what you are talking about.

Awesome

~On our last anniversary the Hubs bought me a new wedding ring {he never liked the one he proposed to me with}, but it was too big so I finally gave it back to him to get it sized. I went back to wearing my original wedding ring. The other day he noticed that I wasn't wearing it and asked me where it was. I told him that I couldn't wear it because it was getting in the way of my video game {Mario}. He just looked at me and smiled. He said he'd never been more proud of me than he was right then. That's right...marry a geek {he's a self proclaimed geek...and he's all mine!} and they are proud of you when you do anything regarding video games!

~My yellow trench

~Staying the weekend at Jackie's house while the Hub's is in Washington for the weekend! :)

~Bible study tonight

~a semi-date with the hubs before he leaves for the weekend

~getting the hang of the timer on my camera

Okay, spill it folks! What are your awesome and awkwards from the week?

What I Wore

2011-10-05T11:07:00.000-07:00

Have I got pictures for you! Since the Hub's showed me how to work the timer on my camera, I have been doing a lot better about taking pictures of my outfits! Hooray! Here's what I wore this past week:

Dress: Maurices-$clearance, Jacket $gift from Nordstroms, Tights-Kohl's, Shoes $clearance at Kohl's

Top-Charlotte Russe $20, Boots-Kohl's-$30

Top-Nordstrom Rack $20, Boots-Kohl's

Necklace-Lovely Afterthoughts

Day

Sweater- Target, Dress-Kohl's, Shoes-Plato's Closet $6, Necklace, Lovely Afterthoughts

Night

Trench-Gap $25, Skirt Kohl's, Top-Kohl's, Tights-Kohl's, Shoes-Fred Meyer Clearance $5

What is your favorite thing to wear?

Misc. Monady

2011-10-03T10:20:00.000-07:00

Good rainy Monday morning to you! I hope your weekend was wonderful!

Surprise Party

As I mentioned last week, Wednesday was Jackie's birthday. I brought her brownies to youth group to help celebrate the actual day. On Friday I planned a surprise party for her. It was a little bumpy Friday morning and I wasn't sure how everything was going to turn out. In the end everything worked out great and she was surprised! :) It was a lot of fun! She said that she was a little bit suspicious, but that I was so calm about it so she didn't think that she was getting a party. Yay me!! I worked so hard at not being super excited! I am glad that it all paid off. :)

Rain

Its here! Its been raining all weekend, but its been kinda fun so far. There was lots of running in the rain and some shopping as well. Then while I was at Jackie's house it was decided that yesterday was the day to build a fire pit. It turned out more like a mud pit since it was still raining, but the fire turned out well. I am trying to do whatever I can to enjoy the rain, since its here for the foreseeable future!

Me & Porsh stopping in the rain for picture

Women's Retreat

On Saturday night out church had a country music night. I have to say I was pretty impressed. I wasn't sure about the whole thing, but it was fun...and I never went in to watch. I was out with several ladies at our dessert table. We were {and still are}trying to raise money for the women's retreat next month. Its not expensive for what it is, but its still expensive. So a couple of people made some amazing desserts {not exaggerating...they were crazy good!} and we all sold them at the concert. It worked out well! We sold out of everything! :) For the month of October we are working in the cafe in our church to finish raising money. Its a lot of work {raising money}, but its definitely worth it!! :) Plus, the desserts are awesome!

How was your weekend?!

What I'm Lovin'

2011-09-30T10:04:00.000-07:00

This week I am lovin' pink! Basically, I love it all the time, but wanted to share it with you! :)

all images via Pinterest

What are you lovin' this week?!

Happy Friday and have a great weekend!

Awkward & Awesome

2011-09-29T09:50:00.000-07:00

Good morning and welcome to...

Awkward

~Going to the movies and being almost {ahem} 30 years old and getting carded for an R rated movie. Then your friend who is 5 years younger doesn't get carded at all. Yes, this also will fall under awesome, but I was shocked that I was carded for a movie. A movie people! lol

~Telling the Hubs that I thought I needed a tripod so that I could have pics taken of my outfits since he's been working so much.. Then I asked if my camera had a timer. He looked at me like I had lost my mind. Apparently timers are pretty standard with cameras. Who knew? I looked the night before and couldn't find the stinkin' thing. Yeah, it was there right in front of my face. He showed me the "universal timer button icon"...now I know. :) Hubby also showed me where to set my camera up at and how to use the timer. Hopefully this means I will have more pics on my Wednesday posts. :)

~Trying to use the timer on my camera by myself. Ten minutes later, finally figuring out how to use the thing. Then taking pictures only to realize that yup, still just as awkward posing when I am alone. I had such high hopes.

~Being at work when the Hubs call and tell me that he couldn't get ten days off in December for our trip to Paris. Then having to sit there and fight the onslaught of tears because its looking like your dream trip to Paris is shot. Then, after lots of texting and phone calls, figuring out that we can still go! Now instead of going to Paris for Christmas, we will be in Paris for New Years and my birthday! :)

Awesome

~Being almost {ahem} 30 and getting carded for an R rated movie

~Celebrating my best friend's birthday with her this week...she's pretty awesome. So glad that she was born!

~Coming home for lunch with the Hubby to find a sandwich already made...mmmm. Stuff made with love always tastes so much better!

~My co-worker getting engaged! Congrats Carly!! :)

~Getting to level 95 in Bubble Blast arcade mode on my ipod...yeah...its a game and yes, I was beyond excited!

~The Hubs rubbing my back because I couldn't sleep. He's so sweet to me. :)

~Figuring out our trip to Paris...and being there for my 30th birthday! :)

A Most Happy Birthday!

2011-09-28T08:19:00.000-07:00

via

Today is a very, very special day! Today I get to celebrate my best friend's birthday! :) She is pretty stinkin' awesome, if I do say so myself! Its funny because we have only been friends for a couple of years, but I feel like I have known her my whole life. Now I can't imagine my life without her.

She is funny, cute, crafty, godly, an encouragement to me, and a blessing in my life. She "gets" me and loves me for me. She pushes me to try new things, to loosen up, and to be a better wife, friend, and leader. She reigns me in when I get crazy emotional. She understands how I feel and how I work. She understands my quirks. She makes my life better. She is more than I could ask for in a friend. I am beyond blessed to have her friendship. She is and inspiration and a godly role model to everyone around her.

I am so glad that God placed her in my life at the specific time that He did. He knew that I would need her and that I would be better for knowing her. I hope that today she knows just how much I love her and how much I appreciates the things that she does for me and others. More than that, I hope she knows how much I cherish her friendship.

Happy Birthday, Jackie!!

Ah, Paris!

2011-09-27T10:36:00.000-07:00

My trip to Paris is creeping up on me and I am beyond excited!! I am still trying to figure out what I am going to wear {so if you have any suggestions I would love to hear 'em!}. I see pictures and I get excited. I watch movies that have scenes in Paris and I get giddy and do a little dance in my seat. The part that makes me the most excited is that fact that I get to go with amazing people. People that I love. Here are some of the images that have me bursting with joy:

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What are you excited about this fall/winter?!

Misc. Monday

2011-09-26T11:41:00.000-07:00

Ever feel like the weekend was just too short? Yup, totally there today. Welcome to another...

Rain

Its still really funny to me that the people here in Oregon get so excited about the rain. Sure, they enjoy the sunshine, but if it gets a bit warm facebook blows up with "its soooo hot!!" But give them rain and they perk up, get excited, and the boots come out! Yesterday {and today, no doubt} was a cozy day for dressing to be sure. Leggings, boots, and sweaters were out in full force {along with scarves} and they were beyond happy to be wearing them. Sometimes I think they put up with warmer weather, but live for the dreary rain. Its funny to me because, while I notice these things, I find myself thinking similarly now. I guess all it took was 5 years of me being out of California for me to be happy about the rain. Here I am, sitting with awesome boots, and checking the weather for tomorrow silently praying that I can wear them again!

Drive

On Friday four of us went to see the new Ryan Gosling {oh yeeesss!} movie, Drive. It seemed like it would be another Fast & the Furious-ish kind of movie. It was not. It was gory. It was slow. There was not much "driving" in it at all. Oh, and the ending was terrible. The music was atrocious. I have never been so happy to have a free movie ticket in all my life! lol So, um, unless you are needing to torture someone for some unspeakable thing they have done to you...I would urge you {strongly} to avoid that movie. Why Ryan?? Why?

Red

I don't know about you, but I love the Sing Off. I think Nick Lachey is the world's worst reality tv host, but the show itself is really good. This season the female judge is Sara Bareilles. She is super cute, super funny, oh and she was wearing the most fabulous red lipstick. I loved it so much that I went out and bought my own red lipstick. I have never worn red lipstick before, but my friend convinced me that I had to try it...and then she convinced me that it looked good and that she loved it! lol

We had fun taking pics {albeit, sad ones} after I applied the red lipstick. :) What do you think? Have you ever worn red lipstick before??

Oh, and Happy Monday!! :)

What I'm Lovin'

2011-09-23T08:22:00.000-07:00

This week I am all about hair! Hair color, style, and when I get bored...fun things to try doing with my hair {even if it is too short for most of these...a girl can dream}!

via

What are you lovin' this week? What style and/or color are you lovin' for your hair?

Awkward & Awesome

2011-09-22T08:29:00.000-07:00

Its that time of the week again! Are you ready?!

Awkward

~Before we left on our vacation we loaded up the truck...and it was full. Not full of suitcases mind you, but scuba tanks and gear. It was so full in fact that you couldn't see out of the back. Normally this wouldn't be an issue except for the fact that we had to back up out of the drive way. I was going to start the trip off by driving, so I put the truck in reverse...and ended up backing up the dirt mound near our house. I pulled forward and the Hubs decided to give it a go. After we switched and he was starting to back up he said, "let me show you how its done." Right after he finished his sentence you heard a loud "crunch!" I just said, "oh, Jim." I knew what happened. He backed right into the side of my car. My.Car. I was crushed {as was my car}. Travis happened to be over, so we had him come look at it, only to find out that there really wasn't much that we could do. Let me tell you, that was not the way we wanted to start our vacation.

~Driving down the road and not noticing the guy in the car next to you who is flagging you down trying to get your attention, only to have Travis point it out after he has stared the guy down {he takes his job in the absence of the Hubs very seriously}. To say I am oblivious is a complete understatement.

~The makeup and perfume section in department stores. Its like they are trying to kill us one scent at a time.

~Looking for a watch and needing to have a case opened. So, you ask someone who works there and they tell you they can't help you, but they will find someone who can. You stand there awkwardly {there are only so many times you can "look" at the stuff in the case without it being weird} for a long time and still no one comes or says anything to you. After you decide it really isn't worth waiting for and walk away does the person you talk to follow you around just to ask if you were done waiting. Apparently, stalking is the new way to get sales.

~Knowing that you did waaaay more awkward things in the past week and not being able to recall them.

Awesome

~Getting to spend some time with my senior girls. I have missed them!

~Sleeping in on Sunday morning because I don't have to be there early anymore! :)

~Having great friends to hang out with.

~Selling the second item out of my etsy shop...its the small things in life!

~Inviting friends over for dinner and having them decide that they want to cook dinner for us instead!

~The new Mario game for the Wii! Its amazing and I am totally addicted!

~Looking at places to stay, museums, and metro passes for our trip to Paris!!

~Bible study starting back up tonight! Love those ladies!!

What are some of your awkward and awesome events of this week?

What I Wore

2011-09-21T08:28:00.000-07:00

Today's "fashion" picture is a bit sad and it my shirt's fault. So, I love this top because of the colors {hello, pink!}. The problem is that no matter what I pair it with, it still is unflattering. Why do I keep it? Because it has stripes and pink on it. I just can't help myself. So, now you should be throughly prepared for my picture. Are ya?? Oh, and as always, I have no idea how to stand! lol My co-worker, Melody, said to do something with my arms, so I creatively came up with this...and she said it was "sooo" me! haha! Apparently I walk around with my arms in weird and confused positions! lol

Top-Old Navy, Scarf-$3 at Gap, Jeans-Kohl's $6, Shoes-Payless $16.99

On another note, I made these earlier this week:

Lovely Afterthoughts Happy customer & Adorable model

My inspiration was the cute girl {above}, Porshla. Oh, and this picture we took while shopping for Jackie's birthday gift. She really wanted them, but because we weren't there shopping for ourselves {although, we did a little tiny bit of that} and she wanted to save money for the gift from her, we opted to taking a picture and seeing if I could make them or something similar for her. :)

Not too bad if I do say so myself {which I do because I am the one writing this post}! ;)

What do you think? Are you a feather jewelry fan?

The Style Geek

2011-09-20T08:27:00.000-07:00

While in California I was lucky enough to meet one of my favorite bloggers, Jenn from TheStyleGeek.com. Her blog is one of the very first blogs that I came across when I first got into blogging. Her blog inspired me and helped me to figure out what the heck I was doing. Plus, she is stinking adorable! She knows how to dress, but also has great tips for just about everything!

Since then we have kept in touch through each others blogs and email. We keep each other updated on the goings on of our lives as well as pray for each other. Its been so much fun cultivating a friendship with someone that I have never met, but that I have things in common with.

When I asked her to guest post for me she asked where I was going and we realized that I was going to be nearby and decided that it was past time we met! Since her blog is partially about fashion and since I blog about clothes I felt a lot of pressure {that I put on myself} to make sure I looked cute. I mean, I was meeting Jenn after all! :) Since I was at the coast I was able to wear my boots {that I love!}.

We met for dinner and had a great time getting to know each other in real life. It didn't feel weird or uncomfortable. The conversation flowed. I got to know her heart more and let me tell you, she is one amazing person. I am blessed to know her in the blog world and in real life.

Have you ever met any bloggers that you've found online in real life? What is your favorite go-to blog? I love finding new blogs to read...so let's share! :)

2011-09-19T08:00:00.000-07:00

Good morning and welcome to Misc. Monday!

Fall

It felt like fall this weekend. It was fun to be able to whip out my new boots and wear them to my hearts content. Its even better because the weather is supposed to warm back up to "summer" weather this week. I am telling you, Oregon weather is stinkin' confused. It thinks that its still summer! I will take the sunshine for as long as I can...because the winter is long and dreary. So, yay for more sunshine!

Shopping

Saturday was a really fun day. Although I had to leave the best friend {Jackie} behind, it was worth it and great! You see, her birthday is coming up and I had some shopping to do! I decided that her hubby needed some help picking out her gift {poor guy doesn't have a clue when it comes to gift shopping}. So, I called up another friend and the two of us took him shopping. I am sneaky though...I got him in the car and hit the road. He noticed that I was driving out of Salem and asked where we were going. I locked the car door and did my best evil laugh and told him that he had officially been kidnapped and that we were headed to Portland. Nothing but the best stores for my friend! In the end he was a trooper! We had him out shopping for 7 hours and I only had to feed him once! Oh, and project "birthday shopping" was a huge success!!

P-Town

Since I had so much fun in Portland on Saturday and the Hubs actually had a Sunday off, I headed up to Portland with the Hubs and Jackie & Travis for some book shopping at Powells. Afterwards we had dinner and then met up with two of our students {and friends} for frozen yogurt. After that we went to the most amazing bowling alley ever. EVER! It had leather couches rather than chairs to sit it. It had the biggest t.v. screens, the nicest waitresses, and it was so pretty! We had a blast! It was a really great day and ended with a great night. We are so blessed to have such fun and amazing friends!

How was your weekend?

What I'm Lovin'

2011-09-16T08:20:00.000-07:00

Good morning and happy Friday {hooray!!}! Today's "What I'm Lovin'" is just a glimpse of my family vacation {with more to come}! What could be better to love than family??

Jayme {sister} & her son, Brandon

Daddy doing the "scuba" dance

Me, Daddy, Jayme, Brandon

Brandon "diving" in the bathtub

Mom and Me

Brandon feeding the seals

Daddy and Me

Mom & Dad

Jayme, Brandon, Daddy, The Hubs, Me, & Jonathan {brother}

The Hubs, Mom, & Dad...aren't they cute?!

So, that's just a snap shot of our week {well...several anyway}! What are you lovin' this week?

A new hop I am joining this week:

Awkward & Awesome-Squirrel Edition

2011-09-15T10:26:00.000-07:00

Hello!! Welcome to my first Awkward & Awesome since being back from vacation!!

Awkward
~I love squirrels. I think they are really cute and I get really excited when I see one. I was driving on a busy road headed over to pick up a friend when a squirrel decided 5pm was a fantastic time to try and cross the street. The squirrel ran in front of my car, made it to the next lane, saw a huge SUV and I guess figured it would fare better against my car instead. Unfortunately for it, it didn't. I saw the poor squirrel turn around and head back towards my car. I slammed on my breaks {yes, I break for squirrels and other small critters} and yelled! I thought I felt my car run over some little bump, but I wasn't sure. I looked in my rear-view mirror and there it was. Its fluffy little tail was sticking straight up in the air and its little body was curled in a ball. I knew it was dead. I cried a little, mourning its death. My friend said that it was in squirrel heaven, but I knew better. It was lying dead on a busy road in Oregon because I was a squirrel killer. I just knew that the other little squirrels were going to know what I did and start leaving us hate nuts on our door step. I am now keeping my eyes open for squirrel retaliation.

Thanks Lena

~While we were at Morrow Rock scoping out a good dive spot, I noticed that there were TONS of squirrels. TONS! They are used to people, so they literally walk right up to you. As we were walking around I was apologizing to them for killing one of their "people." My Dad looked at me and said, "are you really apologizing?" I said, "heck yes I am! There are way more of them than there are of us!!" I kept all of my fingers and toes, so I am thinking it worked. See?? Apologies go a long way...even if its to a squirrel.

~Do you ever find yourself yelling, "Run! I'm a killer, I'm a killer!!" to squirrels trying to cross the

street? I do. Yep. True story.

~Throwing up in your mouth {twice...and ewww} on the long car ride from California back home to Oregon. My little stinker of a nephew got me sick. Good thing he's cute!

~Coming back from vacation only to be sick at home for a week

Awesome

~Vacation!

~California sunshine {even if I wanted to melt}

~Seeing all of the sea animals right outside our beach house

~Youth group starting back up and seeing all of my girls!

~My nephew calling Morrow Rock, Moron Rock

~Coming home to find out that you had been missed :)

Okay, so lets hear 'em! What amazingly awkward and awesome things have you done?

What I Wore

2011-09-14T08:38:00.000-07:00

I am excited to be back from vacation and guess what?! Since I was on vacation I actually took a couple of pictures {which is fantastic seeing that posting up pics for "what I wore" is kind of important if I really want you to "see" the outfit!}!

While we were at the coast I went for a short shopping trip with my Auntie and my Mom. I love this sparkly tank with the black lace shirt. Ahem, I am actually wearing it today too...hehe!

Tank-$5 Charlotte Russe, Black Lace Shirt-{other} Mom's closet

Time with Aunt & Mom? Priceless

While my Mom and I were out one day we hit the local little shops and I found this beauty. I fell in love instantly! The shop lady said I looked Parisian...and if you know me at all, then you know that this made my day! Yup, found my new favorite shop! haha!

Awesome hat-$15 Pearl Stripe shirt-Charlotte Russe, Sunglasses- Walmart $10

I had the amazing chance to meet up with one of my blogger buddies while I was in California. This is what I wore to dinner that night. This was also my first time wearing my new boots...yay for cool beachy weather!

Eyelet dress-Old Navy $6-10, Boots-Kohl's Originally $80...after discounts $30, Denim Jacket-Plato's Closet {Aeropostale brand} $10

So, what have you been wearing?! Are you excited for fall? What is the thing you are looking forward most to wearing?

Misc. Monday...and I am back!

2011-09-12T12:14:00.000-07:00

Welcome to another edition of Miscellany Monday!!

Back at it

It feels weird having been gone for so long and now being back. I am trying to get back into the groove of things, but it might take some time. So, please, bear with me! I have missed you!! Thanks for sticking around and thank you, again, to all of the wonderful women who guest posted for me!

Vacation and sickness

Vacation was nice and relaxing. We spent about a week and a half in California. The first week was at the coast with my family. My parents rented a house on the beach. Needless to say, the Hubs was in the water most of the trip. He hit his 100th dive while we were there. It was fun because my dad and brother joined in on that dive. :) After visiting with friends and family we headed back to Oregon. My nephew had gotten sick during out vacation and ended up getting everyone sick. I got sick and was sick the whole trip back {worst car ride ever} and stayed sick for that whole week. So, basically, today is my first day back at work in two {work} weeks! Crazy!!

Sunday

This Sunday was my first Sunday back and my first one where I wasn't a Sunday School teacher. It was the weirdest feeling walking into the church and only having to go to one place. Normally I would be there for two services, but now I only have to be there for one. I almost didn't know what to do with myself! It was nice, but just really different. I have been teaching since I was old enough to have my own class, so this is a whole new experience for me. This will definitely take some getting used to! :)

Seniors

Well, its officially official! My girls from youth group have finished their first week of their senior year! Its crazy to think that they are going to be graduating in such a short amount of time {I am sure it feels like forever to them though}. Its neat watching them grow and seeing the changes that they have gone through in just the summer months alone. They have such big hearts and really want to follow His path for them. I am excited to see what else this year holds for them! :)

I am excited to be back and to be blogging again! :) How was your weekend??

Guest Post: M Loves M

2011-09-07T08:00:00.000-07:00

I am super excited to introduce you to Mara from M Loves M! She is so adorable and I secretly want the items in her closet! She has the most amazing style and yet she makes it look so effortless. I love reading her blog and getting style ideas from her. If you've never checked out her blog before, you definitely should! I think you will be just as in love with her blog as I am! Thank you so much, Mara, for stopping by! Take it away!

Hi everyone! My name is Mara and I write over at my blog M Loves M. I am so thrilled to be guest posting for Natalie today. She is such a sweetie and I'm so glad I've gotten to know her through blogging and emails. Since it's the end of August {gosh can you believe it?!} and therefore almost the start of Fall I thought I'd share some of my favorite things from this past summer.

going to the beach!

homemade peach pie

Playing with Ginger, our 1 1/2 year old puppy

having bbqs and eating chips and dip

wearing fun skirts and big hats! I'm not looking forward to coats, scarves and tights

Enjoying our first summer as husband and wife! We got married in May :)

Thank you all for letting me stop by today and talk about my top summer moments. Come say hi to me on my blog! I write about my life with Matthew, our dog Ginger, share recipes, outfit photos and fun pictures of our random adventures! Thank you so much for having me Natalie!

xox

Guest Post: Sweet Serendipity

2011-09-06T08:00:00.000-07:00

Good morning!! Today I wanted to introduce you to Ana from Sweet Serendipity! She is fun, creative, and oh-so cute! Her blog just puts a smile on my face. She also makes me kinda re-think my stance on thrifting {almost}! ;) Thank you Ana for joining me over here today! Take it away!

Hi friends, I'm Ana from Sweet Serendipity. Today I am doing a quick little guest post over here. A little about me, I am a 22 year old poor college student. Husband and I have been married for 2 years now. My little blog is pretty much about anything and everything about personal style, our lives, how to make pretty things and other random stuff.

So I have this thing with clothes. I kind of really love it and I share about my personal style on my blog. I love fashion. I love Thrifting. I love going and searching for those hidden treasures. I'm a thriftaholic. I love finding vintage stuff that if they could talk, they would tell the most awesomeness story ever. Something else I love about thrifting... the prices. My husband also loves that little part since we're poor college students. He always says... "My wallet thanks you!" He cracks me up.

I feel like my style is always evolving, which I love. I love to take those little fashion trends and make them my own, with my own little touch. I love blogging because you can see how much you grow as time goes by, how much your style changes, it's basically your own public journal.

I also love creating. Anything really.

I love making jewelry, home decor, clothe refashion, you name it I love to "diy" it for cheaper.

I have a tab on my blog sidebar titled "i make stuff" if you ever want to check it out. Your welcome ;)

If you'd like to see a little more about us just check out our little ol' blog.

I'd love to have you there.

Hugs... Ana.

Guest Post: The Style Geek

2011-09-05T08:00:00.000-07:00

I am super excited to introduce you to this fabulous blogger! Her blog is one of the first that I started reading and I would say that she is my first "bloggy" friend! I am even more excited because I get to meet her while I am on vacation! Hooray! Say hello to Jenn from The Style Geek. She is super cute, witty, and uber stylish! The thing I love the most though is her honesty and her ability to be real with her readers. She's pretty awesome! Thanks Jenn and I can't wait to meet you in person! :) Take it away!!

Pack Smarter, Not Harder

Hey everyone! Jenn from The Style Geek here! I’m thrilled to be posting for Natalie while she’s enjoying a much deserved vacation. (Sidenote: I’m even more thrilled that I’ll have the chance to meet her while she’s down my way on her vacation.) As the end of the summer draws near and people make one last trek out of town over Labor Day weekend, I thought I’d share my top five tips for packing for vacation.

As you probably already know, it’s both an art and a science—and one that can save you a lot of money—if done right.

1.) Count the number of days you’ll be gone and then add 1- Number of days equals number of outfits, equals number of suitcases packed, equals number of dollars spent on airline fees. In the days before Delta et al made you pay for your bags to fly the friendly skies, you could pack as many outfits and accessories as you wanted. Now, there’s really only room for one extra ensemble, just in case of emergency…or a fat day.

2.) Check the weather- You would think this is self-explanatory, but I can’t tell you the number of times I’ve forgotten to see which way the wind is blowing before heading out on holiday. Weather.com is my go-to resource. Their 10-day forecast has never failed me.

3.) Coordinate colors- Because the shoes must match the purse and the purse must match the accessories, I’d suggest sticking with either a black or brown color palette and either silver or gold accessories. This means you can bring one purse (maybe), fewer pairs of shoes and recycle jewelry.

4.) Cancel the workout- Seriously, it’s vacation. Unless you’re going camping (which is usually far more work than it is relaxing), scrap the workout routine and give yourself a real break. You’ll save lots of room in your suitcase if you don’t have to pack tennis shoes and multiple pairs of Soffes. (Come on! You know you have them. Old cheerleading habits die hard!)

5.) Evaluate your schedule- Darn it! I was trying so hard to make all five tips start with a “c”! But I digress… Certain vacations require more wardrobe changes than others. I suggest making a schedule of the activities you’ll be doing every day and packing accordingly. If you know you’ll be ordering room service for dinner at least one of the evenings (which I may or may not have done on my recent excursion to Cancun), don’t pack a dress for that night.

Now, that I’ve shared all my free advice with you, I do have one—more costly—piece of travel advice for you: Buy a Longchamp Le pliage bag...or two. While they cost a pretty penny, they’re waterproof, stain-resistant and apropos of this post, they fold up into a small square that fits into even the tiniest suitcase.

So, bon voyage to the Blonde at Heart! It’s been a pleasure posting for you!

Guest Post: Style Your Life

2011-09-04T08:00:00.000-07:00

Today you get to meet Jennifer from Style Your Life...you lucky ducks! She always comes up with the cutest outfits. I love reading her blog and getting inspirations from her. She is really sweet and I think you will just love her!! Thanks, Jennifer!! Take it away!

Hey there Blonde at Heart readers!

My name is Jennifer and I write the blog "Style Your Life" ,where I focus on fashion and a few other fun stylish topics.

I do a lot of outfit collages ( like the one below).

The outfit items are all click-able and should take you right to the piece in the collage ( if it isn't sold out).

This is a great transition outfit to get you ready for fall!

Old Navy Women's Angorablend Newsboy Caps

Cardigan

Old Navy Women's Chiffonpocket Jersey Tops

Jeans

Gap Metallic Multichain Bag

Thanks for having me Natalie and enjoy your vacation!

Guest Post: Much Love, illy

2011-09-03T08:00:00.000-07:00

Okay, so this girl, Ilene, from Much Love, Illy, is probably one of the funnest bloggers that I "know." She is crazy talented, super cute, and oh-so silly! I love reading her blog {and I've won a book from her as well...thanks again!!}. She has a fun style that is all her own! I love that about her! Thank you, Ilene for taking the time to come over here! Take it away!

My name is Ilene and I hail from the blog, Much Love, illy. When I'm not blogging, you can find me over at my etsy shop. Please stop by - I'd love to meet Natalie's friends! I also have a mad love for movies, mission work in the Philippines, my fiance (Ryan) and coffee.

And yes, I am rather random.

as you can already tell by many of my latest outfit posts over at my blog, i've been slowly transitioning into mega autumn mode. i'm still in love with the bright colors of summer and plan to bring those over into fall with me (and if you know me, i am a huge fan of the big and the bright, bold colors of the rainbow), yet lately, i've found myself drawn to the rustic, warm colors of autumn. a raise of hands, pls? am i alone in this?

oh, yes. i see that hand. and yes, that hand over there.

thank you. i'm not alone.

1. layers

the one look that i adore but sadly cannot rock out too in the hot, humid days of summah-time are layers. i cannot wait to pile on the sweaters, the leggings and the scarves - one after the other. it's just such a fun, thrown together look. love it.

2. tights

like i've already mentioned, this chick digs color - and what other fun way to add that pop of color to an outfit. crazy, colored tights! and my collection is pretty massive, so name a color, i most likely have it.

3. neon colors

totally not planning to kick these colors from summer out of my wardrobe. A) i don't have the money to replace what i would throw out and B) do i need to mention my color-obsession again? oops. already did.

4. a certain movie coming out November

do not judge. i cannot wait for it. and that's all i will say about it.

oh, except for: Edward. i love thee.

 what are you looking forward to most this fall?

Natalie, thanks so much for having me! Hope you are having fun on your vacation!

[much love, illy.]

Guest Post: A Good Reed

2011-09-02T08:00:00.000-07:00

L {she doesn't use her name, just her initial} from, A Good Reed, is one of the most amazing women that I know! She is my real life friend and fellow frozen yogurt lover! She has the most amazing sense of style and she's stinkin' gorgeous! She is new to blogging, but she's a pro already! I am super excited to have her here while I am on vacation! Thanks L...take it away!

I am SO honored to be doing a guest post for one of my favorite blogs ever {!!!},

Blonde at Heart.

I'll be honest, I felt some major pressure to do an awesome post.

It's kind of like when someone gives an amazing speech at a wedding and you're the next person to speak - how do you top that?! [anyone?! No, ok]. So, here it goes...

Re-using random stuff around your house or making practical use out of old stuff has a fancy name: Re-nesting. Here are some ideas of ways to re-nest old shutters . . .

Re-nesting: shutters | 8 ways to re-use old shutters [or buy some at a thrift store & put to good use]

# 1 organize your mail .

#2 paint a bright color to bring life to any room, and put on a shelf with a cute quote like this one

#3 use them as a cheap headboard

#4 add height to a bookshelf display

#5 use as a backdrop for a wreath

#6 decorations for a wedding [seating chart or guest book sign in]

#7 hang pictures

#7 provide a cute disguise for all your lists, notes, etc.

#8 refinish, add a frame, and personalize it with a monogram letter

xx,

L + A

Thanks for reading!

Guest Post: Brazenlilly

2011-09-01T08:00:00.000-07:00

Since I am on vacation I wanted to give you the chance to meet some of my favorite bloggers! Jen is one of my real life friends! I just love her to pieces. She spoke at our women's retreat for church this last year and let me tell you, she is hilarious and oh so wise! On top of that she has an amazing voice, she's one cool Momma, and she is super genuine! I am so glad to have her here! Thanks for guest posting for me Jen! Take it away!!

Hello! I’m Jen and I blog over at Brazenlilly, where I ramble about everything from ironic lessons I learn as a parent to waiting for our adopted son to finding the perfect dish brush. But I’ll admit, it probably falls in the “mommy blog” category. I definitely post a lot of pictures of my offspring for the grandparents. I’m pretty honored to be a guest-blogger for Natalie while she goes on her fab vacay. I’m totally not jealous. Not at all. OK, maybe just a little. I’ll live. I have to say: if you think Natalie is sweet and cute on her blog, well, you should meet her in person! She’s ridonculously adorable. I asked her what I should write about, what her readers like, and she suggested I just tell a funny (and preferably awkward) story.

Then my problem became: where to begin? My number of embarrassing and awkward moments has increased exponentially since I became a mother. Should I write about when I took my 2 week old to the grocery store and my fragile bladder control failed me? Or when I was singing on stage at church and my nursing boobs started leaking? Or when my daughter projectile vomited on the shoes of a woman in front of us—also at the grocery store? Huh. I’m noticing many of my moments have to do with bodily fluids. And grocery stores. I hope you find these amusing, because my vault of funny is deep with blood, urine, snot, spit-up and puke. Barrel of laughs, right?!?

But I’ll let you in on a little secret…these are easier to share, because I totally blame it on the kids! The REAL humiliation is when the moment has nothing to do with having given birth or a person under age 10 who doesn’t know any better. So, in honor of Natalie’s Awkward and Awesome, I’ll just cut to the chase and share a couple doozies. Nothing but the best for Blonde at Heart!

Several years ago I worked at a church office. If we needed to make copies or use the shared printer, we had to walk down the hall to a small copy room. No biggie. One afternoon, I was waiting for a particularly LONG printing/collating/stapling job, and my Mexican food lunch (Who are we kidding? I was young and broke. I’m sure it was Taco Bell.) was, let’s just say it was settling uncomfortably in my lower GI. In my innocence, I figured that being alone in this room for a good 10 minutes was a perfect place to—why am I having such a hard time writing this?—to PASS GAS, people. I tooted, alright?! There. I said it.

It took about 2 seconds for me to realize the ignorance of my ways. A SMALL room, with only ONE door? Oh, sweet, innocent, early-twenties Me. What did I think was going to happen when one of the pastors walked in RIGHT THEN? Blame it on…the copy machine? The non-existent “other” person who couldn’t have just left, because he would have seen them leaving the room? My stinky toddler who wouldn’t be born for another 4 years? Nope. Nothin’ doing. Just smile, laugh uncomfortably, and GET THE HECK OUT OF THERE. And never speak of it again for approximately 9 years, at which time you will share it publicly for all the world. So, yes, Tom B, if you are reading this…IT WAS ME, OK? I admit it.

I swear I don’t have stomach issues. I’m mostly a person with mastery over my gas. But I will share one more embarrassing moment, knowing full-well you’ll all start recommending I be checked for IBS. Many moons later, I was in the grocery store (again) with a 1 and 4 year old and—having learned my lesson—was in a very well-ventilated, large and open aisle, perfect for a quick getaway. There were 2 other groups of people in this long aisle, but they were down by the frozen pizzas and I was still at popsicles. I gently let out a teeny-tiny little whiff as I was walking. I didn’t factor in the fact that my loud-mouth preschooler has a nose that is right about the height of my rear-end.

“MOM! YOUR BOTTOM IS REEEEEEEAAAAAAALLY STINKY!!!” Heads turn. Brows raise. “Oh! Heehee! Aren’t you a little silly! You must be smelling the…the…cheese aisle. Or Sydney’s diaper! YES! That’s it! Your sister’s diaper! What a funny little man you are!” Then secretly I grab his funny little arm and walk quickly away towards the register, telling him under my breath to shut his adorable little trap.

So, you know, lesson learned by moi. Get in control of your sphincter already, girl. Public gas-passing is a risky, risky business, better left to the professionals—whom I’m assuming are middle school boys, frat boys, and pretty much just boys of all ages who don’t care if someone smells their farts. And apparently I should avoid grocery stores. Can someone back me up when I explain to my husband that I can’t do the shopping anymore?

Feel free to stop on by Brazenlilly and say hello!!

Guest Post: Chasing Davies

2011-08-31T08:00:00.000-07:00

Today I wanted to introduce you to Meggy from Chasing Davies! I simply adore this woman! She has effortless style that I feel is completely attainable! I love reading her blog because I always find inspiration there! She is also a momma to be! Congrats girly! Thank you so much for stopping on by, Meggy! Take it away, girly!

Topic: Shopping for Fall on a Budget

Hi Blonde at Heart readers! I'm Meggy from Chasing Davies. I'm happy to be here today, guest posting for Miss Natalie. Here's a little something about me... my favorite season of all is Fall!

I love shopping for any new season, but Fall is the best. All the new arrivals are making me want to spend like crazy, but instead of blowing all my wad at J.Crew (or insert your weakness that isn't the cheapest here), I try to conserve my budget a bit by picking a few things to update my current wardrobe and then incorporate summer & winter items I already have. At least, that's what I'm trying to do!

My must haves for this Fall: Leopard Print, Bright Bottoms, Chunky Knits and Prints.

For the leopard trend, don't feel like you have to go out a drop big bucks on a statement piece or full on dress. You can incorporate some touches of leopard into outfits you already have. This is also good if you are a little nervous about this trend.

Like a scarf (this one from Express for $30) or a skinny belt (this one from ASOS for $21) can add a lot to a simple outfit. Wrap the belt around a blazer paired with a pencil skirt or add the scarf on top of a stripe top and skinny jeans, ta-dah.

Bright jeans, pants and skirts are all over the place for this Fall. I love color, so for me, I already have a lot of this trend. I'm sure you have some bright bottoms in your closet somewhere? Here are some of my recent bright-bottomed looks:

Easy to transition bright skirts and capris into Fall with jackets, sweaters, scarves and the proper footwear (tuck capris into boots).

I am LOVING the thought of pulling on a big, chunky sweater when the temps start to drop. Pull an oldie out of your closet or better yet, borrow your husband or boyfriend's chunky knit. Keep the look lady-like by pairing it over one of those bright bottoms or skinny jeans and cinch at the waist with a belt or high-waisted skirt.

I look to J.Crew & Madewell for inspiration constantly, but definitely when it comes to sweaters and how to wear them. Great styling ideas right on the site!

And last, but not least...Prints! All kinds of prints are in right now, especially mixing prints! Like wearing Tribal and polka dots together (a lahere). Or stripes and leopard - my current fav! And you don't have to spend a fortune to get great patterned pieces. Here are some steals:

I recently got this floral skirt from Old Navy, under $33 and is also a midi skirt - 2 trends in one! I instantly became in love with this native knit top from Forever 21, under $30 and would love to pair it with a black skirt with white polka dots! You can never go wrong with some stripes in your life (I have way to much), especially the classic black/white and for under $13 (this skirt from Target). And speaking of polka dots, a bright blouse in this pattern will go far (from QVC for under $35).

So those are my going into Fall tips! What are you most excited about for Fall?

Thanks for reading and letting me be apart of Blonde at Heart. Come visit me at Chasing Davies sometime.

xoxo,
Meggy

Guest Post: Made it on Monday

2011-08-30T08:00:00.000-07:00

Hi guys!! You might remember Jill from Made it on Monday...I kinda talk about her often. She is my real life friend {one of my first ones when we moved up to Oregon} and she is stinkin' amazing! There isn't anything this girl can't do! She is super creative and a sewing genius! She taught me how to sew my very first pillow. She is a mommy to an adorable little guy and really, is just a blessing in my life! Thanks, Jill, for stopping by and sharing with us! Take it away! :)

Hello Blonde at Heart Readers! I’m so excited to be here today! I knew Natalie in real life before I knew her blog, and she is just as real and genuine in person! I always love seeing what she’s wearing… the girl has style!

My name is Jill and I normally blog over at Made it on Monday.

My blog is full of sewing, crafting and decorating—but mostly sewing. Since I don’t have a lovely Kohl’s discount available to me (ahem, Natalie), shopping in stores can be pretty frustrating. I tend to either be shocked by the price or find myself saying, “I could make that for so much less.” So one of my favorite things to do during nap time (I have an adorable 18 month old) is search the internet for clothes to knock off. And, I figure my readers might like to sew too, so most my items come with tutorials. If you come by, you’ll see projects like…

(Click on the picture to go directly to the tutorial/post)

The flutter flower shirt, the layered strips top, and the rounded ruffles top.

Casually cute knit dress, simple maxi dress, and morning glory.

I also recently started two new series on my blog—the Make it by Monday Challenge and Tips & Tools Tuesday. After participating in Crafting with the Stars and So You Think You’re Crafty, I missed the weekly challenge that the competition and themes gave me. So now I challenge myself each week and invite my readers to link up with me. On Tuesdays I like to share crafting or sewing tips or show how to use cool creative tools. I also welcome my readers to share their tips and tools, so if you have one, I’d love to have you guest post!

And… I’m a total girl. I like to look cute and love clothes and accessories. I tend to look at all the What I Wore types of posts in blogland and then get just slightly envious of everyone else’s clothes. But when I recently did laundry (a rare occurrence for me… I figure the more clothes I own, the less often I need to wash, right?) and realized that I have a lot of cute clothes. They’re just usually so buried I forget they exist.

So rather than feel the need to go buy more clothes this next month, I’m instating a No Spend September for myself. No spending money on clothes or fabric. I need to use what I have. I’ll be shopping in my closet and dresser and when I feel the need to make something for myself, I have to use fabric already on hand. I’m excited to stretch my clothing creativity!

Thanks so much for letting me share a little about myself and my blog! I hope you’ll stop by and say hi!

Guest Post: Perfect In My Mind

2011-08-29T08:00:00.000-07:00

Hi guys! I wanted to introduce Chelsea from Perfect in My Mind to you today! She is adorable! The minute I found her blog, I was in love! She is super fun! She doesn't classify her blog as a fashion or craft blog, but as a life blog. I love the variety of things that she writes about. Plus, she has pink in her hair at the moment...that just makes everything more awesome! Thank you so much, Chelsea! Take it away!!

Hi guys. I figure since Natalie (bless her heart) asked me to guest post over here, it'd be nice to get to know each other a little bit. Is that okay? Want to? I'll go first.

Hi. I'm Chelsea, and I blog over at Perfect in My Mind.

"Hiiii Chelseeeea."

I am so very, happily married to Mista T--and it's been this way for about eight months. He's a number cruncher, and I'm an artsy fartsy student. We live in Southern Utah, and basically love it here. Except when it snows. Then we only sorta love it.

We also try and make a habit out of giggling in bookstores on a regular basis. We feel most comfortable that way.

I spend my days Dreaming of Disneyland. Believe it or not, I once even auditioned to be Princess Aurora in that beautiful place.

When I was a baby, I kind of looked like a dinosaur.

And I recently put rainbow streaks in my hair.

Cool.

So, let's get to the more interesting stuff. What could possibly be more interesting than me? You. (Duh.) I want to know what you're all about. Believe it or not, guest posting is a little bit intimidating!

So that's where you come in. Can we be friends? Tell me about yourself. Are you single? Married? Do you have any pets? Just kidding. I don't wanna hear about your pets. What are you interested in?

I can't wait to get to know you! I pinky promise (virtually).

I'll be reading!

Guest Post: ISLY | I Still Love You

2011-08-28T08:00:00.000-07:00

Today I wanted to introduce you to Melissa from ISLY | I Still Love You. Let me tell you, this girl can thrift and is super creative when it comes to her wardrobe! Not only is she uber thrifty, but she is super crafty and creative! She has a little something for everyone and I am so glad that she is here with me today! Thank you Melissa for stopping by!

How to dress for under $10

I'm a deal maven. I can't pass up a screaming deal, even if I know it's not something I need right away. Heck, I picked up a cool vintage chair just because it was $8 & rad, not because I needed it. Happily, turns out I scored an Arthur Umanoff (read: sells on ebay for $250 per chair)! Truly, good things come to those who scour around for good deals.

Ironically, I've never been one to carry around a coupon. I just go shopping & if I find something for the right price, I buy it. I'll wait it out if I don't.

Inexpensive dresses were particularly hard to come by about 3 years ago. The trend was about 6 months away from bargain stores like Forever21 & Wet Seal. Even then, it's not like any of their dresses brag sleeves or real length past the privates. I needed to find a classy dress on the cheap for a conference I was hoping to attend. I went thrift shopping a couple of times before I met this lovely lady. It was then that I found about 6 lovely dresses all at once (mind you: each were in the $4-8 range), but I kept my shopping cart to 3 dresses. I regret not adding those other three to the basket, but I'm so glad I didn't pass up this one.

The dress was $4. The shoes were $4. The belt was $1. All items were found at thrift stores.

Good deals come to those who wait. And seek.

Guest Post: Amy Day to Day

2011-08-26T08:00:00.000-07:00

Well, I officially leave for vacation this afternoon, but I have so much going on that I couldn't even properly bid you farewell for a bit, but I am super excited to say that while I am gone on vacation I have some of my absolute favorite bloggers coming here to cover for me!! Who's excited?! I am for sure!

Today, I would like to introduce you to Amy from Amy Day to Day. She is super cute and her blog is a ton of fun. She is one of my sponsors {lucky me!!}, but she is also a bloggy friend that I am so happy to have made! I love her easy style, her adorable daughter, and her amazing blog! Amy, thank you so much for kicking off my vacation for me! Take it away!! :)

Hey there Blonde at Heart readers! My name is Amy and I started a life and style blog in March, after feeling a persistent itch to have a creative outlet that was all mine. I'm a wife and a mom first and foremost, but I'm a firm believer that we all need some thing, some time, or some space that is just for us. Am I right?! So that's how amy day to day was born and I am having so much fun with it!

It wasn't until late last year that I happened upon the world of style blogs and really started discovering my own personal style. What I've learned in the process is that my style is constantly changing and I'm constantly evolving at the same time. But right now, here are some of the top things my personal style includes:

#1. Bold, happy colors. They can really brighten your day. Literally!

#2. Stripes. Love me some stripes!

#3. Loose, flowy tops.

#4. Statement necklaces. An awesome way to spruce up a look.

#5. Fun, layered bracelets.

What things does your personal style include right now?!

Awkward & Awesome

2011-08-25T08:37:00.000-07:00

Its FINALLY here!! Time for...

Awkward

~Got to the house where we were going to have our camp out {Tawny's} and I was met with Tawny telling me that I had to meet her parents because they were concerned that there weren't any adult leaders showing up. I went in and was met with sighs of relief from her parents. Her dad looked at me and said, "now you look like a leader." Still not sure if that meant I looked old or responsible. I would like think responsible. :)

~We got a new "nightstand" from the Hubs parents. Its really a bookshelf, but it was free, so we were going to work with it! :) We set it up on my side of the bed and all I could see were the corners. Hubby looks at me and says, "I think this is was too dangerous for you to have something that sharp that close to your head." Now I have a nightstand and he has a nightstand bookshelf. Its safer for everyone this way.

~Before we left for camping, I was at Jackie & Travis' house and there was a garter snake {which until I googled it, I had thought that it was a gardener snake...}. After that, I was freaked out! When we were out in the field for camping we went to walk over to some huge hay bales. I was walking in my flip flops and was kind of concerned about there being snakes. Travis told me that they only like tall grass, so it should be fine since all of where we were was recently cut {or insert farming term here}. So, I awkwardly avoided all the tall grass areas as we were walking. I also asked him about bats, since now I am terrified of them. He said they wouldn't be out there because they like places like cities better because there are more bugs. I was confused but went with it. The next morning I found out that he lied about both! Apparently snakes don't care about grass length and bats don't like the city as much as they like the wide open spaces. He did have a good point though when I confronted him about it. He asked, "did you really want to know the truth? Do you think you would have been able to sleep if you really knew?" Point for Travis! No, I absolutely would not have slept a wink!

Awesome

~Going with friends for pre-vacation {for me} pedi's! Its one of the girl's first pedicure ever and the other girl's second! Crazy!!

~Getting a nightstand, couch, and love seat all in one day! Now my home feels less like a bachelor pad and more like a home {except for the fridge, but you can't fix it all!}! :)

~Vacation in T-1 day!! Let the packing commence!!

~Seeing my first shooting star over the weekend

Okay, now's the time! What are you awesome and awkwards??

What I Wore

2011-08-24T08:15:00.000-07:00

I would love to tell you to check out all the cute stuff I have worn in the past week, but either I forgot to take a picture of it or I just haven't worn much that I thought was cute in preparation for my vacation {gotta save the really cute outfits for that!}. So, this is the outfit that I threw together in less than five minutes and I am pretty happy with it. :)

Shoes-Platos Closet $6, Leggings & Skirt-Kohls, Jacket- Platos Closet $10, Shirt-Hand me down from Mom's closet, necklace- Lovely Afterthoughts

While its supposed to be really hot today, the office temperature won't be anywhere near as warm. In fact, it will probably freeze me out. Hence, the jacket. :) Hopefully this outfit will keep me both warm and cool enough!

What do you think? What did you wear this week?

Inspired

2011-08-23T11:14:00.000-07:00

Have you ever been so inspired by a blog post that you actually did something?! Well, after reading this post by Mom2MemphisAndRuby, I was inspired and told my friend, Jackie, that we had to get on it! :)

I don't know about you, but I love Zooey Deschanel. I think she is gorgeous and incredibly talented. After reading the blog post about her I just knew! I knew it was time to change my hair color...yes, again! lol :)

I have never dyed my hair dark before. I have this thing with blonde hair {haha! Who knew??}, but really like to dye my hair different shades of red. So, this would be really different for me. After seeing the cute pic with the pigtails, I thought, "hey! I think I can pull this off!" My only concern was the color being too harsh against my skin. She has fair skin and similar color of eyes that I do, so I figured I should be safe. :)

Here's how it turned out:

Mine still has red in it, but I think it turned out pretty well. Its still weird looking in the mirror and seeing my hair as dark as it is, but I really like it.

What do you think?

My lovely friend, Jill, over at Made it on Monday, made it to the final 15 for Shabby Apple's {love them!} Dare to Design contest! Congrats to Jill!! :) She needs your help though! If you would so kindly go HERE and vote for her dress {hers is #3} that would be awesome! :) She is amazingly talented and I would love for her to win! Isn't this dress so pretty?!

Thanks for your help!! :)

Misc. Monday updated

2011-08-22T10:20:00.000-07:00

Good morning! I hope you had a fabulous weekend and are ready to start your week {because it showed up whether you are or not! haha}

Camping

No matter what I have done this summer, I just can't seem to get away from camping. I have already camped several times and this weekend was no different. Except that it was! We {our seniors and some leaders} were supposed to go to an actual camp ground, but we couldn't get a site, so one of our high schoolers volunteered her backyard. Her parents have lots of acres, so we drove into her back yard and set up camp...and by "set up" I mean we had a camp fire. We decided against tents. It was just too pretty of a night {I saw my VERY FIRST shooting star!!}. We had a lot of fun roasting mallows and just talking. :) This pic is terrible and you can't really see any people, but you can at least see where and how our camp was set up :)

Silver Creek Falls

On Sunday afternoon after our camp-out, we went on over to Silver Creek Falls for hiking, swimming, and a BBQ. I hadn't ever been there before, but had heard that it was gorgeous. So true! It was beautiful! We went hiking, and although we didn't do the complete million mile circle, we did hike for a nice little chunk of it. I want to go back in the fall when it isn't so warm and all of the trees have changed colors. I think it will be even more amazing then! :) After hiking we went "swimming." I use that term loosely since the water was so cold it wasn't worth getting all the way in...unless you got splashed to death and ended up completely soaked, like me. Even still our stint in the water was short lived, but we had fun! Next up was the BBQ, which was nice. We just relaxed, had lunch, and hung out. I have to say that it was a great way to end the weekend.

Vacation

I leave for vacation on Friday!! I am so excited and its weird thinking that its here already. I don't know about you, but I always forget how much work and prep goes into the actual "leaving" part of a trip. I have to make sure everything is ready for me to leave at work and then have to make sure laundry is finished, everything is packed, picked up, and bills all paid prior to leaving. Its stressful and is going to keep me hopping until we leave, but its worth it. I am just praying that the weather at the coast warms up! :)

How was your weekend? What did you do? Are you ready for summer to be over?

Oh, and I forgot to mention that my lovely friend, Jill, over at Made it on Monday, made it to the final 15 for Shabby Apple's {love them!} Dare to Design contest! Congrats to Jill!! :) She needs your help though! If you would so kindly go HERE and vote for her dress {hers is #3} that would be awesome! :) She is amazingly talented and I would love for her to win! Isn't this dress so pretty?!

Thanks for your help!! :)

Blonde at Heart

Misc. Monday

What I'm Lovin'-Coats & Capes!

Awkward & Awesome!

What I Wore

Misc. Monday

What I'm Lovin'-Friends, Family, & Birthdays!

Awkward & Awesome!

Recap and a Bit of Fashion

Misc. Monday

Misc. Monday

Awkward & Awesome

Misc. Monday

What I'm Lovin'-Shannon's Sparklies

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What I Wore

Misc. Monday

What I'm Lovin'

Awkward & Awesome

Halloween & Still Here!

What I'm Lovin'

Awkward & Awesome!!

Misc. Monday!

What I'm Lovin'

Awkward & Awesome

What I Wore

Love & Coats

Misc. Monday!

What I'm Lovin'

Awkward & Awesome!

Welcome to Fall

Misc. Monday

What I'm Lovin'!

Awkward & Awesome

What I Wore

Misc. Monady

What I'm Lovin'

Awkward & Awesome

A Most Happy Birthday!

Ah, Paris!

Misc. Monday

What I'm Lovin'

Awkward & Awesome

What I Wore

The Style Geek

What I'm Lovin'

Awkward & Awesome-Squirrel Edition

What I Wore

Misc. Monday...and I am back!

Guest Post: M Loves M

Guest Post: Sweet Serendipity

Guest Post: The Style Geek

Guest Post: Style Your Life

Guest Post: Much Love, illy

Guest Post: A Good Reed

Guest Post: Brazenlilly

Guest Post: Chasing Davies

Guest Post: Made it on Monday

Guest Post: Perfect In My Mind

Guest Post: ISLY | I Still Love You

Guest Post: Amy Day to Day

Awkward & Awesome

What I Wore

Inspired

Misc. Monday *updated*

Misc. Monday updated