The Fever is Back

note: click the images to learn more about these decals from handmade sellers on Etsy.
It's happening again. I knew when I first woke up. I could sense it before my eyelids even opened. A perfectly normal day...interrupted. To-do lists were about to go by the wayside. Regular clothes were in danger of being replaced by rags. Why? One simple reason--

The design fever was back.

Now, some of you have asked me "hey, whatever happened to that winter renovation you were working on?" Well, apparently the winter just wasn't my time. I had other things to do. What I thought was the fever setting in was just a false alarm. And maybe, just maybe, this is a false alarm too.

But my obsession with wall decals this morning suggests otherwise.

Yes, yes--I know. I had other plans to paint my office walls. But plans change. After thinking about all of the work it would take to create elaborate designs on my wall, I occurred to me that maybe--just maybe--I should delegate the labor. Like, say, with wall decals.

What do you think?

I've selected a handful that I like here, and obviously have some decisions to make. There are some lovely nature scenes, don't you think? The trees and birds? I'm drawn to the delicate leaves. And since it's almost summer, bringing the outdoors to the inside of my office is appealing.

Nature aside, there's another part of me that is drawn to retro shapes, maps and cityscapes. This option would obviously be less traditional & more modern.

Of course, the whole point of wall decals (in addition to their time-saving appeal) is that you can change them out when you get tired of a motif. So, say, if I want nature for the summer, I can still have retro shapes in the winter. Or cityscapes. Or pine trees (I can't imagine having this last one--but they're available, just in case).

Soooo...what is your preference? Nature? Skyscrapers? Adorable animals? (just kidding--I don't want my office to look like a nursery.) Share by posting your thoughts below!
In the meantime, don't be surprised if I show up on Monday with an entirely different office.

Because that's just how the fever works.

Promote Your Business: Charm DuJour's FREE GIVEAWAY

I am so excited to offer you all a special mid-week treat today! Brittney from the oh-so-charming jewelry store, Charm DuJour, is giving away this Gorgeous navy blue necklace to one lucky winner!

I love the design--don't you? It's simple and elegant. Also, I've noticed recently that I've been drawn toward gold accessories, and thus I am quite fond of these golden beads and the textured chain.

I also really like these navy-blue beads, which Brittney selected specifically for the approaching summer. I think they would look great with a nautical stripe or white linen. Or red sandals. Or a pink tank top. Or basically anything else you own.

To enter to win this lovely charm, please take a minute to visit Brittney's shop (click here!) and say hello on her blog (click here!), and then post a comment below!

The winner will be chosen randomly from the comments below and announced by 6:00 PM MST (that's 8:00 for you Easterners!).

Thank you to Charm DuJour!

note: click here to learn more about how you can Promote Your Business

***TODAY'S WINNER IS COMMENT #6: AMY B.! CONGRATULATIONS, AMY!***

How Resourceful! my Spring Cardigan in Cotton

After a brief interlude, I finally hunkered down yesterday and reopened my pattern shop! And kicking off the spring pattern line is this lightweight cotton cardigan, in rose pink of course.

(note: if you're asking yourself, "didn't she just make a different rose-colored cardigan last week?"...
...well, the answer is Yes, I did. Don't judge me for loving the pink, people.)
I developed quite a fondness for cutting my sweaters in half this past winter, and decided that just because I no longer have need for wool doesn't mean I can't keep slicing with my scissors!

Besides, I'm always in need of cardigans. I find them infinitely more practical than long-sleeved tees. How, for instance, am I going to show off my cute tank tops and frilly blouses if they're covered up under a pullover?
Certainly some kind of protection is required, because I do live in Colorado where the spring season means snow in the morning and sun by afternoon. It's hardly the kind of weather I'd feel safe in wearing just a sleeveless top.
Light cotton cardigans are also very practical even during the heat of summer, because the hotter it gets outside, the more unbearably cold it gets inside, thanks to the overzealous use of air conditioning.

I know you know what I'm talking about.
Of course, as with all of my patterns for fashion and home, this one recycles used clothing by upgrading its style and function. Some scissors, a little satin fabric, and my sewing machine and I had a fun new sweater to replace a boring tee.
And in fact, you don't even need a sewing machine for this one! Just an iron and some fabric adhesive (like stitch witchery) would do the trick!

To learn more about my pattern for this SPRING CARDIGAN, click here.

What is your go-to garment for spring weather? Share by posting your comment below!

Promote Your Business: Lily Leighs Vintage to Modern Jewelry

Hello everyone, and happy Wednesday! Today I want to introduce you to a new friend, Karter, from Lily Leighs handmade jewelry. Lily Leighs is part of my new "Promote Your Business" program (because y'all know how much I LOVE entrepreneurs!), and the jewelry maker would love to share a little bit about herself with you! Read below to learn more--
What are your favorite ways to notice and nurture beauty and inspiration around you?

Having grown up in Colorado, I am amazed by the beauty of the Rockies and gorgeous scenery. But, I am mostly inspired by the beauty in people. I am a people-loving person and find that I am inspired and stirred by people’s lives and the ability of God to work through their struggles and see them through to the other side. How do you express your creativity and personality through your daily work?

Jewelry is relatively new to me but I have always been into doing something or another with my hands. I had a card shop on Etsy for a few years and made handmade cards and tags etc… so I have actually spent more time in the scrapbooking/cardmaking end of things. It helps that my mom was doing the same thing so we would spend many a vacation and visit around cardmaking. She has had a successful card shop on Etsy for a few years (Cardmaven.etsy.com) and is sad to see me turn to jewelry! I love making jewelry and would like to eventually have more items in my shop that reflect my faith. I think my shop could eventually be a more accurate expression of what I am truly inspired by. What wisdom would you give to other women who are seeking to accomplish their goals and ambitions?

One simple word: PRAY. As a Christian I believe that we are fearfully and wonderfully made with special talents and with a purpose. My goals and ambitions were different prior to becoming a Christian. They changed because God had a different direction for my life. I have two children with special needs. I did not know that one of the ways God would use me would be to encourage other moms through the heartache and disappointment of finding out that your child or children were not going to be what YOU thought but that they were well-thought out by God. I was given this unique challenge because that is what God’s purpose was for me. Each woman and person for that matter was uniquely created for a specific purpose that only they can achieve. I really believe that true contentment and real joy come from walking in our life’s purpose~ it just feels right. What do you feel is your most important character trait and why?

My most important character trait is that I care about people and desire to see them grow and change. Christ is and was a lover of people and he causes us to love others. This is an important trait because life is not about us only but what we have to offer to others. Life is so much richer when we can give of what we have! I have a lot to give because of what has been given to me. To you, being a woman means…..?

Being me…accepting and being comfortable with how God has uniquely made me while consistently working towards becoming the wife and mother that I can be through God's strength and guidance. I am a work-in-progress and am maturing as a woman. I used to be such a tomboy growing up and still am in many ways. I have a hard time putting on anything but jeans and boots and wearing my hair other than in a pony tail, but that is o’kay and I am becoming more content with my unique qualities.

Thank you, Karter, for sharing about your business and about what inspires you!

To visit Lily Leighs, click here.
To find out how you can promote your business, click here--

Reaching Out: breaking free from my general malaise

I’m afraid to admit that it has been ONE OF THOSE WEEKS. The kind where I succumb to the lure of a general malaise and put off everything I need to do.

And after a particularly unproductive Thursday involving a Hulu binge and some unadvised quantities of guacamole, I found myself lying in my office in the dark wondering where the day had gone, and why it has been so difficult to find the appropriate energy lately.
After some intense soul-searching over a can of root beer, I identified the culprit. No, it was not the grayish weather we had this week, although that certainly didn’t help. Rather, it is my social isolation. You see, I work from home, and as such, I spend a lot of time alone planning and writing and creating, etc. etc. Which means that I don’t always spend much time out and about.
It’s a trend, I’ve concluded, that I need to remedy. So, to jump start the process, I thought I would search for some inspiration on Etsy this morning. More specifically, I wanted to see what other local sellers in my region were crafting and listing. I reasoned that perhaps I might be able to siphon off some of their energy, and maybe even have a chance to meet some likeminded creative-types who could rub off on me.

And pull me out of my home office.
The truth is that we all need a little outside help to pull us forward from time to time. Because often our dreams and plans get trapped inside our heads or on the pages of our journals or never make it outside of the three people we really share our lives with.
This, naturally, leads to loneliness and stagnation.
Fortunately I already feel better. Just looking at these beautiful items, and knowing that their creators live in my town takes away some of that loneliness. And their example of innovative and fresh enterprise refreshes my excitement about resourcefulness and entrepreneurism. They’re putting their skills “out there” just like me. And frankly doing a fine job of it at that!
So, if like me, you're currently struggling with a little malaise yourself, perhaps the prescription is to reach out. Because we can't accomplish our goals and dreams all by ourselves, no matter how disciplined and focused we are. Trust me--Hulu and guacamole are powerful distractions...

Take a minute to visit the shops of these wonderful local sellers to Northern Colorado, or perhaps visit Etsy and search for shops in your region!

And have a great Friday!
--steph

Glossary of handmade sellers:
1. rouched bamboo cream longsleeve top by mnemosyne
2. ginseng wristlet by chick bags
3. czech glass fire polished beads blue turquoise faceted donuts by bead soup beads
4. peppermint sugar scrub by all things mint
5. small size--one pendant custom silhouette necklace by lucky me beads
6. chenille and flannel baby blanket in apples and oranges by the red pistachio

Easing In: lessons for living from spring fashion

It's no secret that I'm a bit antsy for spring this year. I'm like those young girls who choose to wear their shorts and sandals in 55 degree weather because they desperately (and prematurely) want to show off their spring break tans.

You know who I'm talking about.
I used to make fun of those girls tromping around college campuses in their weather-inappropriate attire. But an inordinately long winter this year has caused me to soften my judgment. Because the truth is that I have been attempting to force spring, too.
I wrote on Monday that I have been fighting the urge to push myself into change. I see good things up ahead, and am impatient to get there. However, in spite of my zeal, the reality is that this is a transitional season, and I need to learn the art of easing into it.
Take these lovely fashions as a metaphor, for instance, for easing into change rather than trying to forcefully coerce it. These pieces are all perfect for the realities of March. They hint at the promise of warmer weather, but still provide the necessary coverage for cooler days.

Skirts with tights, lightweight jackets, wrap dresses that can be layered over cotton and lace... These things are what it means to ease into a new season.
Notice the conspicuous lack of bare legs, of uncovered shoulders, of strappy sandals. These ladies understand that you can't force warmth, even if you do have a tan to flaunt (which, for the record, I most certainly do not). They aren't, however, clad from head to toe in the wool and boots from winter, either.

They are easing out of one season and easing into the next. And doing it beautifully.
And this art of easing is what I am trying to learn. Change, like spring, won't come any sooner just because I'm weary of winter. These things take time.

And good fashion.

What is your favorite "transitional" fashion item for this time of year? A good jacket? A lightweight scarf? A wrap dress? I probably would have to the go with the last one--a wrap dress--although I am also LOVING the new mini-skirts with tights, too. How about you?

Glossary of beautiful spring fashions from Etsy sellers:
1. denim skirt tulip mini by patkas
2. checkered dress by replicca
3. romantic grey wrap top by lirola
4. hoodie wrap, japanese print and organic soy jersey by isla new york
5. the brandenburg by little houses
6. 7 ways to wear wrap dress in juicy plum, also by lirola

Dressing up Men

A conversation from early in my marriage:Overheard while preparing to attend a dinner and awards reception:

me (getting ready in a party dress): what are you planning to wear, Craig?

him: I'm not sure yet. Do I really have to go?
me: yes. We've been through this. You're coming. Now I was thinking that you could wear your dark corduroys. You know--the ones I bought for you for Christmas three years ago.

him: I'm not wearing those.
me: why not? They look good on you and you never wear them. People will be dressed up, you know.

him: they're not comfortable. And I don't care what other people are wearing. Do I really have to go?
me: You're going! Well, if you aren't going to wear the corduroys, what about your Dockers? You could wear your white button-up--the one you like that you took on our honeymoon--and your linen sport coat.

him: I want to wear my jeans.
me: You ARE NOT wearing your jeans! Why do we have to go through this every time we go out!?

him: Because you never listen.
me: that's ridiculous. People will not be wearing jeans, Craig. Seriously--you have to pick something else.

him: I'm not going if I can't wear my jeans.

me (giving him The Look): you're going. And no jeans!
Sometime later at the event, much to my dismay, a gentlemen walks in looking dapper in a cowboy hat, a white button-up shirt, and...you guessed it...jeans. Turns out, he was the recipient of one of the awards.

my husband (turning to me): If he gets to wear jeans, so do I.

And I've been losing the battle over denim ever since.

glossary of dapper men's clothing and accessories, all from Etsy sellers:
1. mod mens over coat by good grace
2. 50's men's pierre cardin executive suit by the brush factory
3. vintage mahogany lace-up oxfords by squeaky wheel collective
4. men's shirt - navy/white gingham STYLE No. BKT10 by brooklyn tailors
5. vintage 70's wide boho brown leather belt by skinny and bernie
6. men's suit - grey worsted wool STYLE No. BKT50, also by brooklyn tailors
7. vintage steampunk handcrafted watch by revolt70

Unexpected Chivalry

I’ve been reading a lot of comments this week about chivalrous husbands and boyfriends. The kind who open doors and buy flowers and write notes.

My husband does not do any of these things. Little romantic gestures are just not in his genetic makeup. But he is a gentleman. He does give me unexpected gifts right when I need them. Like yesterday, for instance:
him: what are you up to today?
me: the usual. work. lots of work.

him: you know, you need to be careful that you don’t burn yourself out.
me: it’s too late--I’m already burned out.
him: why don’t you just take a sick day.
me: I can’t do that.

him: why not? everyone needs to take a day off every now and then.
me: well...that would be nice.
him: i know. just stay in bed. take it easy.
me: really? you think that would be okay?

him: yes. you need it. it’s okay.

And then he left for work. Three episodes of Big Love, four of Mad Men, one Project Runway, stacks of Oreo cookies, piles of lime Tostidos and two beers later...I was admittedly feeling quite refreshed.
And this morning I’m a new woman.

So thank you, Craig, for being a gentlemen in unexpected ways. Because though open doors and flowers are definitely nice, what I really needed this week was permission to take a break.

I love you--

What do you prefer for a special treat: jewelry or really tasty food? Share your thoughts here!

Glossary of treats and pretty things from Etsy:
1. Himalayan pink salt truffles - 15 pc. by vintage confections
2. humble heart earrings by charm du jour
3. white chocolate covered peppermint joe-joe's sandwich cookies valentine's by sweet tooth sweetie
4. little poppy bowl by prince design uk
5. Hand Decorated Valentines Day Heart Swirl Cookies // 1 Dozen // Individually wrapped and and packaged for gifting by bees knees creative

Pearls of Wisdom

Last week I wrote about practicing the art of graciously receiving compliments. And again yesterday I brought up the subject of manners (or, rather, another blogger brought it up). And so today I thought I would continue the theme by mentioning a pearl of wisdom that I was recently taught.

The wisdom is this: “place yourself in a position to receive niceties, and you will find them.” What niceties am I referring to, you ask? Well, let me tell you. They’re the little things, like when a stranger picks up something you’ve dropped, or if someone offers to hold the door open for you when you have your arms full. You know--the little polite gestures that help make the day go smoother and restores our confidence in humanity. Now, what do I mean by “placing yourself in a position to receive them”? To be truthful, it is a tad difficult to explain, but let me try by illustrating my point with a story:

When I was younger I had the privilege of being accepted into an academic fellowship in Washington D.C. Now there was this young man who was also in the fellowship, and he had this habit that I thought was sooo annoying. His habit was this: when we would walk together in a group, he would intentionally walk between us ladies and the street. It used to drive me crazy. His reasons were obvious--he was trying to be a gentleman. If a car were to slosh mud up onto the sidewalk, he was willing to be the one who bore the brunt of the sludge. Or if a car door swung open unexpectedly, he wanted to be hit rather than us. It was a kind gesture. It also got under my feminist nerves. I’d walked down tougher streets than downtown DC, I figured, and had handled myself just fine. Why did I need him to protect me from the possibility of unexpected threats? Now, granted, he was a bit over-the-top in his chivalry. Perhaps I would not have even noticed his gestures had he performed them with a little more subtlety. But he was young and I was young and...well...young people make mistakes. My point is that in spite of his overzealous efforts, I could have a) recognized that perhaps it really would benefit me to be shielded from sludge and injury, and b) moved to the inside of the sidewalk to help him out. In other words, I could have put myself in a position that made it easier for him to be polite. And maybe if I started looking for more politeness, practicing it myself and expecting it from others, I might start seeing more of it blossom in my town and in stores and among family.

To close, I'd like to thank my friend, Ramona, for pointing out this little pearl of wisdom. She certainly knows her manners.

What is your favorite act of chivalry? Share by posting your comment here!

Glossary of lovely ivory images, courtesy of handmade sellers on Etsy.com:
1. all about a bow clutch--ivory lustrous duchess by davie and chiyo
2. pretty pearls by pretty things by meg
3. chocolate brown felt flower hat by mojo spa style
4. vintage - 18 inches square pillow cover in satin ivory ruffles by the home centric
5. vintage ruffles - 16 inch round silk pillow cover with ruffles also by the home centric
6. made to order ivory tulle and pearl bridal shrug by holly stalder
7. white day dress (free shipping) by magnolija dress