Tilly & Fran

Happy 10 Months old!

2012-01-29T19:19:00.000-08:00

(No she's not really blowing up that balloon, but there's no doubt she would try!)

10 months really?! It's seriously hard to imagine a year ago I was stressing over nursery details and shower invites and today I was stressing over getting my baby to eat her dinner. Times they have changed. In just a matter of a few weeks Chloe has become a speed crawler, she's pulling up on everything and she is now a full-on table food eater (good thing I just bought two cases of baby food that she won't eat anymore). Everyday I'm curious what she'll do or say. She and I have lots of conversations, but she's doing most of the talking. Her cousins have been in town this week and she is loving all of their attention and trying to keep up with them all. Her cousin Brennan brought in this pink balloon and it was the coolest thing in the room. Don't mind the buckets of toys just feet away, no it was the balloon she desired. Anything goes for her and I'm trying to take that approach to my life as well. Remembering to let things just be is hard for me to practice, but now I catch myself sitting on the floor watching Chloe play for hours or next to her highchair waiting to see how many cheerios she can fit into her mouth at once. She's defining life in a whole new way...and that's a good thing.

Charlie always finds her way into the photo shoot

Chloe @ 9 months

2012-01-15T08:22:00.000-08:00

Little girl is getting big! I was a little delayed taking her 9 month photos, but we got them done despite the fact she no longer sits still or just lays there as her mom gets all paparazzi on her. The dog Charlie is a good prop to keep her interested, but she is crawling all over and easily distracted so rather than having 100 photos I get maybe 10 good ones. Yeah I realize that's a good thing. Anyway, she's a great little gal and I'm so so glad she's in my life and gives me daily purpose.
I used a quilt my mom gave me as the back drop and put on the sweet sweater her Mimi made over 10 years ago. Read more about the story here. It's pretty awesome. I thank God for this angel in my life right now. She has a contagious smile, a sparkle for adventure in her eyes and an excited spirit that fills me up.

Where I'm at

2011-12-29T20:22:00.000-08:00

I want this for Chloe. I want this for me. To live richly beyond the amount in our bank accounts. To relish in the beauty around us, explore cultures that intertwine, to seek creativity, to enjoy golden moments in time. That is what I want.

Dallas Flea

2011-12-16T14:34:00.000-08:00

I'm a few weeks behind, but here are some snapshots from the Dallas Flea I went to a couple of weeks ago. There was definitely nothing flea about it. The area was filled with curiosities and items made by stellar artists. Check - check - check it out. Maybe you'll get some last minute gift ideas!

Ruthie's Rolling Cafe food truck - all the craze for fresh gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches.

Cole Paper Co. Custom wedding invitations + Stationery + Prints

Leah Duncan illustration + design + textiles

Rachel Elise handbags + accessories

Signifying Not

GAIA for Women Home

Rad jewelry from F is for Frank

The Pink Pagoda

Studio Slo Mo

Leah Duncan pillow cases

3 Bears Studio

Etsy Find: Silhouette Necklace

2011-12-11T18:35:00.000-08:00

Surfing the world wide web this weekend I stumbled upon these little gems. I'm just in love. It's such a unique take on the personalized mommy necklace. If you're looking for more than just a charm with your child's name on it, check these out. Lucky Me Beads will customize the infamous silhouette using a photos of your children. Don't ask me how she does it, but she does and it's cool.

Weekend wrap-up

2011-12-11T18:20:00.000-08:00

Weekends are always full of lots of football around our house. Chloe witnessed history when her daddy's alma mater (Baylor) had it's first Heisman trophy winner - RG3

Totally want this ... for Chloe ... errr myself. This thing is so sweet. If they have it around when Chloe gets older we're so getting it.

Hello cute slippers from Wal-Mart! Yeah, I know.

We found our first Christmas tree and Chloe helped. She had to touch every tree before we found the perfect one!

We had a great time...even if she was still in her pajamas and I pulled a celebrity, wearing my sunglasses the entire time.

New favorite app on the iPhone: Photo Collage

Our perfect tree...really so perfect my dad thought it was fake. Love me a real Christmas tree!

My mom and dad flew back from Malaysia after visiting my sister there and they stayed with us while they fought jet-lag. Chloe took advantage and had Grandma reading to her all day.

Silly girl loving life.

Blog clog

2011-12-08T20:34:00.000-08:00

You ever wonder how you can ever keep up with the overload of technology? Blogs, Pinterest, Facebook, more blogs, Twitter and long list of bookmarked websites. There are so many blogs out there that I used to follow, but when baby came I just didn't have the time or the want to log-on any more. Then the full-time job came and that further reduced the time I had towards browsing the web. I write all day and look for ideas on a computer, the last thing I want to do when I get home is get on the computer and look at more websites that make me feel like I should be doing more.

Everyday there's a new "list" or "guide" full of items you never knew about. You wonder if you're totally out of the know if you don't log-on everyday. Then there is Pinterest. It's a great concept, but I have a hard time with how it's really bettering my life. Sure I like to go on and "pin" things that appeal to me, but that's it. I wish I had time to do all the things on my DIY board or cook the items collected on my "Cookin'" board, but I don't because there's just not enough time in the day. And I guess that's just it. What are we doing with our time? Are we going from blog to blog wishing our lives looked like those we read about, envying how that person can come up with such clever crafts or how that fashion blogger has the time to find all those clothes that you'll never be able to afford or wear like that? I just wonder if we're tricking ourselves into thinking life happens on a screen. I have to give myself space with the computer and remember to go and create my own life that is completely independent of something I saw on a blog, read on website or liked on Pinterest.

Don't get me wrong I do think the web has a lot to offer. There is just such an insatiable amount of things out there that it can get overwhelming! I wish I could do all of the creative crafts I see or convince myself that I can cook, but I'm realistic and know that right now in my life it's just not happening. That little 8-month-old is the best thing I've ever created and the fun part is she continues to refresh my life without having to log-on. When I do get on the computer after baby is asleep, laundry is folded, dishes are cleaned, bottles are made, I pay a visit to a few blogs that just plain inspire. I go to Under the Sycamore almost everyday to see what Ashley's wild crew is up to next. She has stellar photography and a great sense of purpose and perception of what life is really all about. Lil Blue Boo is somewhat of a new blog for me. Another Ashley writes this one and her life story has so many chapters of love, heartache, loss, hope, illness and joy. Both are women of faith and they make it known that life is something to be lived, experienced, enjoyed. Now that is inspiring. Check them out.

baby girl

2011-12-04T13:22:00.000-08:00

(note: I'm a little late on this...the whole working mom thing puts a kink in things.)
Whew where do I begin? The last eight months have been a combination of a lot of things; pure joy, gratitude, unconditional love, exhaustion, excitement, pride, frustration, fear and more love.
This sweet joy named Chloe Anne makes this life incredibly full. Even though her tummy never seems full because she's always spitting up her food, her smile remains big and wide. We're on some reflux medication that we hope will start helping, but the word on the parenting street is that we just need to wait it out..."it will get better." Until then we keep lots of burp clothes around and do lots of laundry. You know you're a parent when you get thrown up on and you don't even flinch. I'm sad for her because I know it can't be fun to spit up all the time, but she just keeps going on having fun. She's rolling a lot and thinks about crawling but it just turns into her baby worm.
In a time where life continues to be uncertain she is the spark in our day. When weeks fly by because work has become all consuming and it seems like it's work/home/work/home rinse and repeat she brings a perception into my day that reminds me what a gift life is and to just slow down and enjoy it. She loves books so I have fun reading to her while she tries to eat the pages. I enjoy watching her play with toys and explore her hands or roll and scoot herself to something in her sight. And so it goes...8 months and counting. Not sure I'm okay with the fact that she's now closer to 1, but that's life, it keeps moving.

Estate sale Saturday

2011-12-03T21:00:00.000-08:00

I'll be honest. I've been to my share of a few garage sales and I'm not a fan. There's just too much stuff and it's all just thrown out on a concrete slab for the masses to sift though. Rarely do you find treasures. So today I decided to go to an estate sale here in Dallas to see if that experience would differ. Um yeah they did. The first sale I went into was located in an upscale neighborhood. The exterior of the home was traditional, but inside the decor was all sorts of Asian Mid-Century. It's always kind of creepy walking through someone's home like they just stepped out and looking at their things...buying them and taking them home with you. It's just odd, there's really no other way to describe it. BUT...it does provide a unique opportunity to find some one-of-a-kind treasures. The prices are typically higher, and there are definitely some sales that have lots of junk and a few diamonds in the rough. The second sale I went to seemed sort of grungy when I first walked through, but I didn't judge it by the bad decorating, I kept searching and found the great yellow chevron blanket and that coral necklace. It's getting items at places like this that make wish there was some type of journal that came with items so we could see the history of where it was first bought, what homes it's been to and the connection of those who have had them.

Etsy Find: Modern Mobile

2011-11-30T19:01:00.000-08:00

This little gem is makes me go into a daze...wonder what it would do for Chloe? I'm thinking she's growing out of her musical bird mobile and this just might be the little nursery upgrade she needs...or wants. Yes, she tells me things like that.

*AMradio

Shop On!

2011-11-22T19:31:00.000-08:00

I'm proooooobbbbaabblllly gonna need these. I've been on the search for unique baby clothes and some new headbands for baby girl, but haven't had much time for shopping lately...or to browse Etsy, but with the holiday break beginning tonight this mama is gonna get her shop on starting with these items by Eight Baby Legs. I love the ruffle onesie and once Chloe has this spit up thing under control I'll get her this...maybe she'll get the idea. No spit up = new clothes.

iPhone dump

2011-11-13T18:13:00.000-08:00

Love those eyes

Chloe's first football game Mizzou vs. Baylor!

Playing ball with cousin Callan

Pre-game kiss from Coach/Uncle Stec

Having a ball

Yay for Truman!

Playtime!

It's not always fun and games

Charlie is a good playmate...most of the time

Love this sweet gal

Working world

2011-11-07T19:22:00.000-08:00

Sorry blogos...life has been...well life; busy, hectic, uncertain, full, happy, exhausting, entertaining. Weeks are flying by. I look up and the first week of November is already over! Part of the madness is working full days every week with deadlines and pressures. I rub my eyes and the next day is starting over. I yawn and wonder if I'll ever stop washing bottles again. During the days while I'm away from little girl I sit at my desk trying to break my writer's block while starring at photos of her. It makes me wonder, like in the photos above, does what we surround ourselves with influence our creativity? Our day? Our attitude? Whether it's a map of places you've explored, sentimental items or family photos, I believe it's important to make your work space a place that reflects who you are - you and your work will be better for it.

Quack, Quack

2011-10-30T18:02:00.000-07:00

So the time comes when a parent must decorate their child in a costume and then take lots of pictures that said child will look back on one day and say, "Really mom?" Yes, really Chloe that time is now for me and I'm loving it. I wasn't sure how much I would get into this Halloween thing, but how can you resist something so cute as that?! I had to jazz up the standard duck costume with some pink tights and leggings (which I'm obsessing over) and Chloe didn't mind...she might in 18 years, but for now I'm the mom and she'll wear them...because I said so. Happy Halloween!

Trade Daze

2011-10-19T14:09:00.000-07:00

Over the weekend I visited the McKinney third Monday trade days. It's a weekend long outdoor flea market that is a miniature version of Canton's first Monday trade days that I've been to only once and it was a very brief visit during a super hot summer. So I thought well, it's October and I haven't been "junkin'" in months so I made the 20 minute drive to score some finds. Well, I was a bit disappointed with the selection of items. The booths ranged from bad gift shop reproductions to garage sale style selections. I did come across a few however, that caught my eye. Most items were a bit overprice for my liking, but I did score a handwoven basket made in Ghana from a nice man who sold it to me for $15. I had seen the baskets at the Frisco Mercantile for $40 and up so I felt like I got a steal and I'm really excited about the display opportunities for this little gem. He had amazing beads that I wanted one of every kind, but I really have no real reason for strings of beads right now. Anyway, it was a nice little hot outing. I'm hoping to make it to Canton next month for the real deal.

Dwell with Dignity

2011-10-13T15:25:00.000-07:00

Photography by: Margaret Wolf with Moving Images Productions Photography

Photography by: Lance Selgo with Unique Exposure Photography

There are a lot of great design inspirations out there. Some homes inspire you because of the color, textures and layers of accessories; others have a wow factor that is just undeniable. And then there are the homes designed by the team of Dwell with Dignity. Two women from here in Dallas have collaborated to bring great design to families who are struggling to overcome poverty. Their goal is "to bring good design to those less fortunate, inspiring them to maintain a standard of living they can be proud of and thrive in."
Above is a teen center and a group home they designed using donated products and time from local businesses and industry professionals. They remodeled the spaces and the people who call them home. What an achievement?! I'm just so impressed with their ability to make interior design have purpose. Sometimes I think about all the time and money that is put into decorating our homes and is it really necessary or worth it? Yes, it can be to all of us when we walk into our homes and have a sense of confidence and satisfaction that it is place we feel comfortable in and proud to call home – that is what it is really all about and Dwell with Dignity knows that too. They are hosting a Thrift Studio pop up shop for the month of October where the public can purchase accessories and home goods at discounted prices to help fund future projects for Dwell with Dignity. I can't wait to check it out!

Oh My-Mantle

2011-10-09T18:11:00.000-07:00

The first thing to get decorated in my home is the mantle. It's the centerpiece of the living room that you can accessorize throughout the year. As we head into the holiday seasons anything is possible. It doesn't require much to change up this little space in your home, so start and stop here...just my opinion. Decorating for Halloween and Thanksgiving/Autumn is fun, but be creative with it. No need to buy more plastic leaves and pumpkins from Hobby Lobby. Just go outside and bring nature inside. You can wax leaves to keep the color and they make fab fall decor. Just think outside the aisle of the mega markets and what you can use on hand already, but just done in a different way. That's the great thing about the mantle. You don't need a lot and you can switch it up without spending lots of money or time. Get your mantle on.

B-a-n-a-n-a-s!

2011-10-04T10:19:00.000-07:00

Little girl is loving dinner time! These are the latest pics of her eating her favorite food so far (granted she's only tried two kinds) bananas! She goes right for the spoon, but sometimes she likes the spoon to become an airplane and come in for a smooth landing courtesy of her goofy dad who acts as the co-pilot and provides sound effects of course.

mmmm baby food

2011-10-02T18:00:00.000-07:00

We are loving our new Baby Bullet. Chloe started eating solids this week and we started her off with avocado. She wasn't really into this whole eating thing at the beginning, but quickly she was opening wide and smacking her lips with satisfaction. We've moved onto bananas and she LOVES those. I think she's gonna be like her mama and crave the sweet stuff. With the Baby Bullet I can use one banana and puree enough for 4 days, same with the avocado. The set is great and comes with all the things you need to get started, even a no-brainer book with recipes and directions for moms like me who want to make sure you're doing it right. I picked mine up at Bed, Bath and Beyond and used the 20% off coupon. It's already saving us money and I'm making my baby's food! Winning combo!

Chloe is a 1/2 year old!

2011-10-01T20:03:00.000-07:00

Chloe and I had an impromptu photo session this morning. I love Saturday mornings because we don't have an agenda and we just lay in bed making noises, watching college gameday, exploring each other faces, playing with Charlie and just absorbing life. It's definitely different than what our Saturdays looked like six months ago...mmm well maybe not entirely different, pretty sure I stayed in bed as long as deemed appropriate. But these days this gal didn't get the memo that Saturdays are meant for sleeping in, but that's OK I get her out of her bed and bring her into mine and we have sweet pillow talk. Not sure what she's saying, but it think it's baby code for "I love you." "I just pooped my pants" or "I'm hungry." "Charlie says she wants a treat." or "Mom, seriously stop taking my picture."

Lovely Lonny

2011-09-30T18:38:00.000-07:00

I've got to get back to reading...online. Life has been so hectic and busy that I think they've come out with three issues since I last logged on. There are so many pages to flip through, but these caught my eye in a major way. The layering is juuuuust right. I could just curl up on that couch with my online Lonny. Oh lovely.

DIY brilliancy

2011-09-29T21:07:00.000-07:00

Yes, I think I just made up a word to describe this DIY find: brillancy. It's superb. It's free. And a great idea for any big wall in you home that you just don't know what to do with. Don't put up a mirror, pull down that Hobby Lobby mass produced art and put up this unique wall art.

O(ffice)MG

2011-09-27T20:32:00.000-07:00

OMG. Seriously. These rooms are so major. If I worked in this room it would be bananas...okay I've been watching the Rachel Zoe Project I'll admit it. I said last week I wouldn't watch another show, but I had to see if her house really came together! Where were my 12 movers and 5 assistants to move my entire home into another in one day?! But back to the office...are they not wonderfully rad? I mean do people actually work in these rooms because I will and I would get some major work done in these office spaces. I could do without that overhead light. But none the less it's fab.

All of the Above

2011-09-26T21:08:00.000-07:00

A lot has been happening since we started back to school ... or started school for the first time. Chloe worked the camera on picture day at school. We're in so much trouble—I might as well start a photography fund to buy every single photo they offer from now until she's... ah who cares, I love this kid. Here are some more updates on the life of Chloe

Her new playhouse won in a contest by her Grandma Brown!

Here is the inside of the playhouse that I hope to paint and make super-duper fun just like the little girl that will play in it! Oh and mom got some press for winning the house! She was not only in one, but two local papers, even on the front page!

Now that we're only about three hours away we get to see these two special people more often! We love visiting Grandma and Grandpa Brown!

Special moments with Grandpa make life full and fun.

Can't Chew-se one!

2011-09-14T09:17:00.000-07:00

So at the new job I come across a lot of cool products for moms and these are no exception. They're called Chew Beads and they are safe for that little on one your hip or lap to chew on and grab. They're safe, non-toxic and just plain cool. Oh and they have matching bangles too! Chloe is certainly wanting to grab at lots of things so I think one of these purty little things will be around my neck soon!

Missoni Accomplished!

2011-09-14T09:09:00.000-07:00

As most know finding Missoni products at Target really was a mission and women everywhere were up for the challenge! The website crashed and shoppers lined up in the early morning at Target stores around the country to get their paws on Missoni. I was one of the lucky ones allowed onto the website where I was able to get these adorable crib sheets for Chloe, a travel case and a fab frame. I went to an actual target store during my lunch break and I overheard a sales person say they were sold out by 10:30AM!!! Wowza! I'm curious to hear what the sales are for the Missoni/Target marriage.

C is for Clean (and Chloe)

2011-09-12T07:59:00.000-07:00

I just love a clean baby! Our first bath experience was ... a total fail. We were complete rookies and gave her a bath after she had just eaten (bad idea). She didn't want anything to do with the cold wash cloth all over her body. Now, we've learned it's best to do bath at night in this order: Bath. Bottle. Bed.

Chloe has a big girl bath tub and she loves it! First she'll just lay in the tub and just chill like she's at a spa and needs to relax after her long day of playing with fuzzy toys, sucking her fingers, squeaking like a bird, pooping, eating ... you know, really stressful stuff. Then she gets this burst of energy and starts kicking like crazy, pushing against the tub and making the funniest faces. Typically, bath time is done with daddy so I just sit back and observe or I listen from the hallway until I hear "uh-oh" then I come in the door like nothing is wrong and ask if I can help.
Chloe is a complete joy and loves her bath time with daddy. I just love a clean baby. There is just something about that smell and fresh baby skin that makes everything fade away.

Flea finds

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

I went booth shopping (way better than window shopping) at the local Frisco Mercantile last weekend and I was both inspired and nostalgic for my Tilly & Fran booth. I had missed the thrill of the hunt for that great piece at a great price. I loved seeing all of the creative uses for old things and browsing each booth that showcased such different personalities. I picked up a wire basket (of course, I'm a sucker for those) and a pair of earrings. You really can find it all there. The pics are items that I wanted, but had no reason or place for them! When I see the really old, vintage pieces it always makes me wonder where they come from, who made it, when was it used and how did it get here? It would be cool to have a timeline with each piece you picked up along the way.

Flea market itch

2011-09-06T14:28:00.000-07:00

I wonder if they call it a Flea market because like a flea, they make you itch in a way you can't ignore ... or not. Well, over the weekend I got the itch. I picked up a recent copy of Flea Market Style and flipped through each page with my mouth wide open. I was in awe of the ideas and style of vintage items. The rooms featured above are from the home of Jeni who owns Found, a vintage rental business for events and weddings. Her home is so original and well-done. It's not too junky or old looking. She does a great job mixing pieces together in a way that just seems so natural.

It made me want to find the nearest flea market and go looking for that "flea find". More pictures to come from that little adventure.

*photos from Flea Market Style

Picture perfect

2011-08-31T12:49:00.000-07:00

Don't let your eyes fool you like mine did ... that is in fact a baby nursery ... with a huge mastiff dog on the floor (he's the size of the crib!) and a huge Palm Springs themed mural on the wall. I came across this room in the recent D Home magazine. All of the rooms are epic, but this one certainly wins the prize for "Most fun". It's definitely one way to make your baby's room personalized. I've seen these photo murals that are put on the wall like wallpaper in a few places and I think they're really cool. They're not for everyone or every room, but it's sure to make a statement. This mural came from surfaceview.co.uk and you can view more rooms in this house here.

*Photo from D Home (photography by Aimee Herring)

Stella & Henry featured nursery

2011-08-31T07:21:00.000-07:00

So my extremely talented friend Meg has a great blog for moms called Stella & Henry. You may remember her from Mimi & Meg, her first blog that features the best in fashion, design, art...pretty much anything cool, she's on it. I just fell in love with this nursery on her blog that I had to share it with you. Check out more great mommy items and ideas at www.stellaandhenry.com

I love this warm nursery by interior designer Sherry Hart, featured in Atlanta Magazine. Get the look with items that Meg rounded up below!

1. ABC Animals Pillow / 2. Antigua Rattan Flat Round Pendant Light / 3. Oeuf Sparrow Crib in Gray / 4. RENS Sheepskin Rug / 5. Serenity Natural Fiber Sisal Rug / 6. Taboret Stool / 7. Layla Grace Adelaide Rocker / 8. Felt storage box / 9. Lacquer Wood Tray / 10. ABC Blocks

Read more at Stella & Henry stella & henry

Chloe's playhouse

2011-08-30T08:39:00.000-07:00

So my incredible mom is always thinking about others and that is no exception when it comes to her grandchildren. Over the weekend at the local fair she entered into a raffle and bought six tickets, one for each of her granddaughters. Well, what do you know the winning ticket was that of Miss Chloe and she won this darling playhouse! Since we don't have our house yet here in Dallas, we decided the playhouse should stay at Grandma and Grandpa's. Today they delivered the house and I think it found a great spot out in the country under the tire swing tree. I just love it. I can't wait to decorate the interior for my charmed little Chloe. We can't wait to visit and play pretend all day!

5 Months of love

2011-08-29T20:14:00.000-07:00

I squeezed in some fun shots tonight with my 5 month old bundle of love. Even though I'm home without my main man for 16 days, I have this fun gal to hang out with. She puts a lot of joy into my life. I hate to leave her in the morning, but I'm so overjoyed when I walk into her class and she gives me one of those big smiles like above. All the day's baggage just melts away and I'm plugged into love.

Chloe is 5 months old

2011-08-29T12:15:00.000-07:00

Can you believe it? (well, yes at times it feels like 10 months!) Ha, but it's been a joyful 5 months with this special little lady!

So I've been thinking...

2011-08-29T12:04:00.000-07:00

*Be warned: Rambling ahead!

Ever feel like your little world is swirling ... in the wrong direction? Lately, my thoughts have been so topsy-turvy. The days go by in a blink and I'm not even sure what I've accomplished; Have I loved enough? Am I making an impact in someone's life? Am I keeping perspective? What's for gonna be for dinner? Will I ever go to the gym again? When can I get a haircut..................? Am I using my fruits to bare more fruits? ... don't compare, don't compare.
I feel as though I'm packing bottles into Chloe's bag for school just as quickly as I am unpacking them. The day seems to be smashed and I look around and wonder "What's it all for?" Now I'm not getting deep or sad here, I just mean I think about the all the drivers on the road commuting to a job that supports their family, leaving their kids for the day, only to return and have just a few hours with them. And then it's rinse and repeat. Or I drive by businesses wonder, "What do people do there? Are they happy?" I worry about those who have so little or those who work so hard just to get by or I even think back to the guy shining shoes in the DFW airport...he's someone's dad or grandpa ... shining shoes. What's his story? Everyone has one.
I'm looking into things too much I know, some have called me an over analyzer, but I guess this time in my life I sometimes feel like that scene in the movies where I'm standing still and everything around me is zipping by. I think about what life will be like years from now and what mornings will be like when I'm packing three kids' lunches! I think about what big idea I could come up with or will I always be going to a job.
Yikes, how's that for a spinning top of thoughts?
So goes the struggle to just be content in the present. To enjoy each day and make the most out of it. To not live by the to-do list as much ... or maybe I'll just add different to-do list actions such as: Work hard. Do your best. Put a smile on your face. Say hello to a stranger. Check in with a friend. Say I love you to someone. Pray. Eat. Sleep. Laugh. Work out. Read. But know that if you can't do it all —it's Okay (but hopefully I've scratched something off that list).

I opened my devotional this morning after a weekend of driving in the big city of Dallas feeling like a small lonely fish and found this to be spot on to what my heart and head are feeling.

"The world is so complex and overstimulating that you can easily lose your sense of direction. Doing countless unnecessary activities will dissipate your energy. When you spend time with Me, I restore your sense of direction. As you look to Me for guidance, I enable you to do less but accomplish more."
- Jesus Calling

Whew that felt good. :)

P is for Pinterest

2011-08-23T19:52:00.000-07:00

If you haven't visited planet Pinterest then you must be living on the moon. The creative site is full of visuals that you can catalog into your own custom groupings. It's like a cork board of all your favorite things that you can see anytime, anywhere. Yes, they have an app for that. Here are a few of my favorite things from my Pinterest planet.

mmmm I wonder if I could give a the letter C a try...you know in all the spare time I don't have.

Happy girl

2011-08-23T19:45:00.001-07:00

Life is happy.

Chloe the artist

2011-08-23T19:30:00.000-07:00

So Chloe came home from daycare with these masterpieces. Yes, she's 41/2 months and yes I put them on my refrigerator. Her teachers said she loved the slimy touch of paint and went to town smearing the stuff all over. We're really loving her new school and the fun things she's getting to do.

Baby Einstein Quilts

2011-08-17T08:40:00.000-07:00

I'm drooling like I'm a 4 month old (yeah, I'm talking about you Chloe). These quilts are like a good Baby Einstein video...I'm mesmerized by the colors, patterns, vibrancy. I really can't choose, there are so many! And like every good Einstein product there's something to learn. Read more about these unique quilts found online at One King's Lane.

"Sha D'Lei's collection of textiles from India is renowned for its vibrant colors, patterns and stitching. Kantha, a type of stitchery popular among rural women there, is also the name given to lightweight throws and blankets made of old saris and other pieces of cloth and featuring this type of needlework.
This gorgeously vibrant throw is hand-quilted in a reversible design from vintage reclaimed materials. Whether you drape it over your bed, couch, or favorite chair, this beautiful piece is sure to make a statement and breathe new life into your decor."

Home baby home

2011-08-12T21:32:00.000-07:00

There' s no place like home. And there's nothing like bringing a new baby home. A special little girl named Meg will soon call this adorable nursery home. Her parents are some of the most genuine, caring, loving, happy people I know. You can tell they designed this nursery with thought and excitement for her arrival. I just adore the colors and patterns that make this room so inviting. I wouldn't want to leave if I were Meg! Good thing a room like this will grow with her. It's not overly baby, it's not over-done, it's juuuuust right. It's just such an original nursery with personality, it just makes you smile. Her super talented dad took the photos and will take many, many more as her personal professional photographer. Check out more of his work at www.followelfotography.com

*photos courtesy of Robby Followell

M is for Marriage

2011-08-12T20:46:00.000-07:00

My fabulous, creative friend MM recently wed her best friend in a wedding that had all of the details—done right. Her background is in graphic design so naturally she designed all of the products for the wedding; save the dates, invites, welcome books, paper poufs, fabric chandelier, stamped bags, paper wreath...it really went on and on. With the help of her sweet mama and fab friends the wedding was truly an original piece of art...made from the heart.

Photo show off

2011-08-12T20:20:00.000-07:00

Loving this photo display from the cleverly done house of the smiths. It's one of the best I've seen. The photos are so well chosen and the variety of frame sizes are just perfect. And it doesn't hurt that those are my favorite colors. The new nursery has bookshelves that I'm hoping to do this sort of display above. It's been unique to decorate a different house with totally different layouts, wall spaces and colors.

Chloe's First Day of School

2011-08-09T14:06:00.000-07:00

So adorable right? This is what I received from Chloe's teachers at her new school (Primrose) here in Dallas. The book made me feel so good about being away from my baby girl all day. She's smiling in almost every photo and looking like such a content gal. I brought the book to work today and have been flipping through it to keep my mind and heart at ease, knowing my baby girl is in good hands. And speaking of hands, I'm pretty sure her poor teacher had a handful of poo yesterday after Chloe had her first blowout on record! On her activity sheet the teacher even wrote "Blowout" next to the generic BM. Girl knows how to make a first impression! Yikes.

Day two has been much easier (granted that probably had to do with the fact that I made my husband drop her off). I keep looking at the clock in anticipation to pick her up this evening. I can't wait to nuzzle my nose in her neck and give her kisses. She's a big girl...and her mom is too (most of the time).

The Move

2011-08-07T20:20:00.000-07:00

Hey blogos I'm still in the process of moving, so I'm taking a break from the blog for just a little while longer. I'll catch ya on the flipside with lots updates and new inspirations. xoxo - C

What up I'm...

2011-07-29T12:39:00.000-07:00

Delight

2011-07-26T19:26:00.000-07:00

Love this room! I literally love everything...minus that cat. Sorry cat lovers, but it's just not my thing. I wonder if I can photoshop Charlie onto the bed. It's such a delightful room (probably takes 20 boxes to pack up...ugh gotta get over this move).

Lived. Loved. Learned.

2011-07-26T18:56:00.000-07:00

We made it to our new home! After a week to forget, we arrived in Dallas, Texas to begin our newest chapter as a family. The last ten days were spent packing boxes, moving boxes, throwing things into a box, giving up in frustration, packing more boxes, saying "see ya later" (I don't do goodbyes well) and stopping on Saturday afternoon to look up the moving company's number! I was so over it. I will never do a move on our own again! I've moved around five times, but never have I moved an entire house! An never will I do it again. It was a humbling experience that I don't wish upon anyone, but the days passed and we made it through. The last few nights we stayed with our neighbors and as I walked next door the emotion of the event rolled over me from head to toe. I was moving from a place I've lived for over four years and it hurt. I was leaving comforts of friendships, the simpleness of a life known and moving to a place full of unknowns! Doubt and fear crept in and I thought I can't do this. But I knew in my heart it was time to move on, but that didn't make it any easier. Change is a coin; good/bad, new/old, comfort/uneasiness, certainty/doubt, easy/hard. Each day holds something different, which is good and bad since I'm sort of an organized, controled environment, detailed person. The fact that all of my things are in boxes is difficult and makes me question my love for interior decorating. I'm pretty sure there are close to twenty boxes labeled "decor". Sure I love what is inside, but if I pull them out that means I have to put them back in when we move again...okay forget it, I love the decorating part of change; finding new ways to display old things. I guess that's what it's all about.

DIY; bed rest

2011-07-17T10:23:00.000-07:00

I was close to bed rest while I was pregnant and now that I'm a 3-month mommy I wouldn't mind the doc telling me I need bed rest. This bed would ideal to crawl into after a long night up baby. How clever is that headboard? Like, so clever.

Pack it up

2011-07-14T19:49:00.000-07:00

Sorry for the blog-lite beverage. I've got a full-plate of packing, playing with baby, more packing, saying goodbyes, changing diapers, packing and in the last few minutes when baby is asleep I get around to blogging. I hardly get to the blogs I'm a fan of, but I know in a couple of months life will slow down and I'll have more minutes in the day to sneak a peak at things that bring creativity into my life. I'll be able to unpack my paints, fabrics, papers and stencils and get back to some crafting. It may require baby steps as I mesh baby, new job, new home, same husband, dog, new city all together, but I know it's important to keep that part of me unpacked.

Nifty Nurseries

2011-07-05T19:50:00.000-07:00

How adorable are these nurseries? Each has their personality, but they share a common love of accessorizing. The first is contemporary cute and the second is modern memorable. Anything goes for baby.

Fabpoof

2011-07-05T18:00:00.000-07:00

If I were to name this room I would call it "Mediterranean delight". There's a lot going on in it sort of like a mediterranean salad - colors, textures and yes flava. But I've only got my eyes on one thing - that poof. I would take that thing every where with me. Chloe can have her boppy if I can have that poofy.

3X the Love

2011-06-29T21:00:00.001-07:00

My little Chloe is three months old today! In some moments it's gone by really quickly, but in others it seems like a century. She is in a really fun stage of making funny noises, smiling, interacting with her people and yes, still farting like a man...my sweet girl can let 'em rip! Who knew babies could pack such a punch? But seriously she's so cute that even that can be cute.

She is sleeping 8 - 10 hours a night and tonight will be her first sleepover in her big girl bed (and if she wants to come back home to our room at 2a.m. I'll go get her). But it's time.

Sure we have our bad days, but there are also some really great days that make you forget the spit up you found in your hair hours after you burped her - super attractive. But seriously, I've got a good kid. She puts a spark in my day and brings continuous joy.

In the middle of this move I'm glad to sit and nurse her so I stop and refocus. I watch her and just pause, knowing it's all just stuff...that has to go into a box, but it can wait. For now watching Million Dollar Decorators with my baby girl is all I need to do.

Things I'm learning and re-learning:

Baby girl does not like tummy time, but it's a must. I just do it 3 times a day for 10 minutes.

I can never find a burp cloth when I need it. I think I say, "Honey, can you hand me a burp cloth?" about a billion times.

Selson Blue can be used on babies...no shame getting rid of that cradle cap.

Even at 3 months, the kid will crank her neck to watch the T.V.

Be consistent with your feedings and she will adjust and stay on schedule. Babies like routine. We eat at 7 - 10 - 1 - 4 - 7 - 10 and she's taking about 4 - 5oz. per feeding.

Don't fret if your baby isn't wearing clothing to match her age.

Get a mobile in your crib after the first month - she loves hers.

Pump with your glass of OJ or coffee in the morning and download some good apps to make the time go by faster. If things aren't going well give it some time.

Aquaphor is your baby's friend - use it on anything.

Trim those nails a few times a week, they grow fast!

............More to come I'm sure!

Cute as a button

2011-06-28T21:25:00.000-07:00

After this move I'm looking forward to getting back into the DIY. This is one great little project that could be done on the fly with minimal items needed. I've got lots of those small little bags with replacement buttons for clothes I've bought over the past ummm four years and they are stashed in a drawer somewhere I'm sure. Now I know what I'll keep them for after I throw them into a box!

A Friend in Art

2011-06-28T19:53:00.000-07:00

I love this art. I love this art even more because my sweet friend Sarah Manning is the artist. All of her talent is just pouring out onto the canvas and the result is breath taking. There's so much quality and richness to her art. She has such a variety and offers outstanding depth in color and content. I am a BIG fan! Check out more of her work HERE

Tons of FuN

2011-06-28T19:35:00.000-07:00

This photo should be titled "Tons of Fun"...kind of like the Cheesecake Factory Burger called Tons of Fun, this room has everything. It's loaded with yummy details. However, I'm not sure about that rabbit...

Box or Bed?

2011-06-27T19:31:00.000-07:00

Many reasons I love this room. The natural light, the exquisite headboard, comfy linens, but of course the number one reason is that adorable pup on the bed. I realized after looking at all of the house pictures I took for the home listing that Charlie is in almost everyone! It's like a "where's Charlie?" game. Yes, we are moving and trying to sell the house. There's a lot do and there are moments that I just want to lay on my bed like this puppy, but the end result keeps me excited and motivated to pack another box! Speaking of...

Ta Daaaa

2011-06-22T16:46:00.000-07:00

Yup, we're selling our house so that means one thing...we're moving! It all came together recently. My hubby and I have accepted new jobs in Dallas and we're set to start August 1st! In the meantime, we're selling our home, hanging out with friends, eating as much fried chicken as we can and thinking about packing. It's going to be a whirlwind, but a couple of months from now we won't even remember the chaos that we lived through. If you know someone who is looking for a fabulous home in the Jackson, Mississippi area please let me know! It's been a wonderful home for us and it comes with great neighbors. Check out more of the house at www.179eastsidedrive.blogspot.com
Thanks!

Honey what's for dinner?

2011-06-22T16:28:00.000-07:00

So life is a little different these days. My husband left his job a few weeks ago and then we went on a two week road trip. Now we're back home and I keep looking at my husband wondering what in the heck he's still doing here. Isn't he supposed to be working at night like he's done for the last four years? Why is sitting in the recliner with the remote in his hand watching my TV? And why is he asking me what's for dinner? I was just going to have a bowl of cereal or rice (seriously). Oh right, he's not working right now...and well neither am I. Looks like the kitchen and I need to become friends again and I have to get used to this whole "wife cooking dinner" thing. As for the TV...he better get used to watching the Bachelorette and HGTV!

So Chevron

2011-06-21T15:30:00.000-07:00

In my next house I'm bringing the Chevron back! It's sexy, yet subtle...if you ask me! (p.s. I have to keep this short because Im typing with a baby in my left arm...no easy task.)

Baby love

2011-06-21T15:25:00.000-07:00

Quick update on the Chloe Tour of 2011. Her performances have been great and she's received several encores! We're at the final stop on the tour in Nashville visiting with the in-laws and she met her cousin for the first time. His name is Callan and only seven weeks older than Chloe. They like to play together and even held hands, or maybe he was grabbing something out of her hand...either way it was cute. We're enjoying our time on the road, but I'd be lying if I said I love living out of a suitcase...one reason I just wouldn't do well as a celebrity.

Road Trip

2011-06-04T19:30:00.000-07:00

Hey bloggos I'm going on a two-week road trip with my lil' family so my posts will be slim to possibly none. I'm calling it the 2011 Chloe Tour with stops in Dallas (my sis is back from Malaysia), Oklahoma (to swim at my mom and dad's house) and Nashville (to hang with the in-laws). I hope everyone stays cool and enjoys their summer!

Design crush

2011-06-03T12:03:00.000-07:00

So if I were to have a design crush, it would be with this room. It's pretty much me in a space. We're perfect for each other. It has everything I'm looking for: I love the neutrals with pops of color. The textures in the rug and chair. The artwork that I know I've seen on Etsy and the soothing wall color.

It the full package! If I knew where this house was I would definitely stalk it like a crush...you know the true form of stalking before facebook made it way to easy :).

Fond Farewell

2011-06-03T11:50:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was my husband's last day on the job as the local sportscaster. The job that brought us here was both exciting and challenging. He worked hard for four years and four months covering the local sports scene. For the first time in our marriage I will now have a husband home at night! It will definitely be wonderful and different...he better get used to me telling him what we're watching on T.V. every night. I have had control of that remote for way too long to just let him move in on my shows! All kidding aside it is going to be a great thing to have us here as a family. We aren't sure what is next, but we hope things will become clear very soon. We have been prayful for many months and we know the Lord will show up and show off. All of the uncertainty has definitely made for stress and pressure, but we're keeping the faith and I'm grateful for the peace I have knowing it's all going to work out.

Party in a Cloud

2011-06-01T16:37:00.000-07:00

Seriously? Seriously. This is truly magical. Kind of like walking on a cloud...or eating in one. Either way it's just dreamy! I got married four years ago and the wedding industry has changed so much. There are lots of things I would change and would even consider an outdoor wedding to achieve this look, but the major detail...umm the husband; yeah I wouldn't change that at all.

Two Months too soon

2011-05-31T16:14:00.000-07:00

I'm two days behind, but baby girl is now a two month old! How can that be? We're stilling having lots of fun as you can tell. Charlie the dog likes to get in on the fun too. She still isn't sure about this squealing littler person that gets all the attention, but there's one thing for sure, she is a proud and protective puppy; even if she scares the crap out of Chloe...literally. Guess you had to have been there!

Blog & Mag love

2011-05-31T09:55:00.000-07:00

(Yup, you've seen this everywhere...learn more about the source below)

Browsing the aisles at Wal-mart recently (don't judge it can be more fun than you think) I stumbled upon this fun little magazine called Fresh Style. Inside are pages and pages of simple and fun DIY projects that you can actually do in a DAY (my kind of craft). I also read up on a lady by the name of Ashley Ann who is the mom-of-all-trades. She speaks mom, she takes brilliant photos and she is a creative queen. I love scrolling her blog imagining what it's like to live in her world. She seems to make each moment count. I'm taking notes on her method of motherhood because she does it right (plus she's from Oklahoma like me). Check out her blog Under the Sycamore to see what I mean.

Sunny spit up

2011-05-31T09:42:00.000-07:00

Since it's a billion degrees now, spending time outside has become as much fun as a getting spit up on...and that happens enough here so no need to add to the excitement. However, if I had a space like this and it were air conditioned...well I wouldn't mind getting spit up while sitting on the daybed with warm daylight pouring over me (okay that was my poor attempt to make spit up sound fun). Enjoy summer because it is here!

T&F Booth...saying goodbye.

2011-05-30T15:28:00.000-07:00

The end. The Tilly & Fran booth closed up today. It was a bittersweet goodbye. My friends and I started the booth last July and it served as a fun side project; a creative escape. It gave us a reason to go junking and have fun displaying and decorating in a space other than our homes. The booth really had a lot of great things come and go. I kind of wish I had a camera that followed some of the pieces from where we found them to where they are now. Every thing has a story...including Tilly & Fran so stay tuned!

Show off

2011-05-28T19:44:00.000-07:00

Love this way of displaying cards, stationery or photos. I love all of the baby cards, wedding invites and fun photos we've taken recently, but I haven't figured out a way to display them. I think this is just the idea I needed. It's a good to have the things that you're drawn to out in the open as continued sources of inspiration and ideas.

I want a summer house

2011-05-28T18:53:00.000-07:00

Oh to be Sarah. I started watching her series on HGTV when it was just Sarah's House. Now, it's evolved into Sarah's Summer House. She is renovating her own cottage that just happens to be on an island in the Northeast. She is completely redoing the entire place and adding her unique touch to each room...oh and p.s. she's pregnant again. The woman not only gives construction direction, but finds unique decorative pieces for each room. It's like she doesn't even have to try! I think her exceptional skill is combining patterns. Just look at the bedrooms and count how many patterns you find. It's like a "Where's Waldo" photo, but it just works!

Etsy Find: Baby headbands

2011-05-26T12:14:00.000-07:00

Ok before you tell me I should be admitted to Headbands Anonymous know that this just a temporary thing until she gets hair...then I'll stop with the headbands and start with the barrettes! ha this kid is going to be so annoyed one day.

So before baby was born I started looking on Etsy for some cute headbands. Well, I found one that was actually called "Chloe" so naturally I had to have it. Then things went downhill. I saw a flower, then a bow, then a hat...and Chloe had to have them all. Etsy became the "supplier" to my headband addiction. Since then I've reeled things in and haven't ordered anything in over a month! Yeah, I'm on the road to recovery!

Be proud.

Read a book by it's cover

2011-05-22T19:40:00.000-07:00

Hello awesome nursery. During my visit home the kind ladies from my hometown church threw me a "sip 'n see" shower to love on Chloe and give me...I mean her gifts! They were so generous. We got quite a few books and I can't wait to start reading them to little girl. I sure wish she had a bookcase like this one! How cool is it to view the book covers, rather than just the boring spines? This option allows the books to become an art gallery of sorts. The graphics are so colorful and vivid, learning starts just by looking at the story told on the cover.

Chloe on the go

2011-05-22T19:20:00.000-07:00

Sorry I've been MIA lately! Chloe and I took a trip out of blogtown and went for an airplane ride to Oklahoma to see my parents. I helped my mom and dad move into their new house out in the country. They moved out of my childhood home and after living there for 28 years they had a lot of STUFF! I worked my tail off decorating, organizing, sorting, throwing and yelling at my mom that she can no longer buy picture frames, plants or pillows from wal-mart! I worked and worked, while mom held Chloe (she said it was necessary).
Anyway, It was a great time to be home and I think I could have stayed all summer getting the new house in order. Even though my parents moved out of the home I've always known, I realized it's about what is inside that home that gives it the comfort and sense of belonging. All of my parents "things" are things that remind me of where I came from. Many of their decorating pieces are from the travels they've taken across the country and around the world...not out of a catalog. Our style couldn't be more different, but I appreciate the story behind the bowl that came from my great-great grandmother or their reason for keeping a jar full of seashells from the coastline of California. It's all about surrounding ourselves with things that we love and remind us of those we love. For now, I'm keeping my favorite accessory, Chloe, by my side where ever I move!

T&F Booth

2011-05-13T16:11:00.000-07:00

The Tilly & Fran booth is closing. Go shopping this weekend!
Everything (excluding art) is 30% OFF thru May!
located inside the Antique Mall of the South in Ridgeland on Hwy. 51.

Announcement, announcement!

2011-05-11T17:51:00.000-07:00

Hey web world I thought I'd share the announcement I put together for our sweet Chloe. I had some help from my sweet designer friend who put my ideas onto paper. I'm so happy with it and with the baby on the front, she is something sweet.

Best of baby

2011-05-09T13:48:00.000-07:00

Oh baby! I just stumbled upon Restoration Hardware Baby & Child line. They have wonderful nursery options, beautiful fabrics and great decor details! Check it out...even if you aren't expecting; they have items for any room and any age!

Wake up call!

2011-05-09T09:56:00.000-07:00

Since baby I've taken a blog break from interiors and such, but I'm going to hit you up with some fresh inspirations I've found lately. So sleep is obviously a rare thing around here so not much time is spent thinking about decorating my bedroom (the nursery she doesn't sleep in yet however is perfect), the only creative wake up call I get involves a colorful stinky diaper by a six week old artist!

Here are a few sleep time snapshots that have some inspiring details...great color combos, a painted ceiling and a rad rustic headboard. Give your sleep space a wake up call with creative details!

Mother's Day sneak peek

2011-05-04T18:11:00.000-07:00

So the mama's in my life might see their gift early, but I had to share the little frames I made over the weekend. They were super easy and it made my day to get creative again and put some time into a special "happy" for the very important women in our lives - our MOM'S! Yes, those are real flowers (on sale at Michael's). This Mother's day is sure to be very special for me and I think I'll hold Chloe all day long. Hey I may even put a big bow on her head since she's my gift!

Family Fun @ Five Weeks!

2011-05-04T18:06:00.000-07:00

This little girl is stealing our hearts, time, energy, love, thoughts....she's got it and she doesn't have to give it back.
Although, each day has a certain routine to it, the day seems fresh and new when I go to pick her up every morning. I love those first moments that she cracks her eyes open and peers into this big world. Sometimes she gives me a little smile to say, "Oh hey mom I'm glad you're here." I want to be "here" in every way for her. I pray that the Lord will prepare me to be there in ways she will need me and will give me the tools to be the best mom I can be! I do struggle with how I will combine her life into the life that awaits me in the working world. How will I be able to do it all? How do I sort the day's priorities when she is my number one priority?
There are a lot of uncertainties in our little family of three right now, but the one certainty we have is that we love this little girl and she loves us. She doesn't know the decisions her parents have to make, but we make them for her. We want her to have a great life full of all the experiences we had as kids, but now we're parents and it gets scary. Whew, yes it's okay to admit that. I get myself into a worry war over getting her into a daycare, wondering how I'll make her baby food when I've worked all day, when I should put her on her tummy or give her what toy when!
I have to remind myself daily to be in this day, be in the moment. Don't live by lists or the what ifs, but just trust. A friend told me today that instead of feeling like you're always asking the Lord to do this or that, just begin to thank for him for doing this or that because He will do this or that, it will just be done in His time and according to His will. So today I thank our Lord for working it all out because right now I have a little girl to go hold.

Mother's Day Finds

2011-05-02T13:34:00.000-07:00

So now that I'm a mom I get a new holiday and a reason for presents!! I'm thinking these gifts would be ideal. Hint, hint daddy :)
Decorate by Holly Becker from Decor8
Modern Vintage Style by Emily Chambers

to the Online Mall

2011-04-30T20:10:00.000-07:00

Oh how I love online shopping! While baby sleeps I can do some serious shopping in a matter of minutes. Today I took care of Mother's Day and a few wedding presents for Princess Cate...or maybe just mom. But I must say West Elm is the place to go for gifts right now. They have great pieces and best of all, free shipping!! It's a no brainer. I'll have gifts checked off the list and I don't have to leave the house! I'm saving money on gas, energy on getting out of my pj's and time wasted going from store to store. Plus, my lil gal can go with me to the online mall!

One Month My Love

2011-04-29T11:57:00.000-07:00

This special little lady is one month old today! I put on her elegant floral onesie to watch the royal wedding. She dined on milk while I had tea and crumpets. We watched in awe at the stunning Princess Cate and the loveable Prince William. It was a slice of joy that I look forward to sharing with my little princess one day.

I wuff woo!

2011-04-28T14:28:00.000-07:00

Because I'm a dog lover I wanted to pass this along. My friend found this dog at her grandmother's a few weeks ago and she really wants to find it a home. The dog is very friendly and plays with her young daughter.
She would be perfect for a family with children or other dogs, but anyone would be lucky to have her. If you would like more information email Julie at julie@screamingpeacock.com

Thank you!!!

Jussst right

2011-04-27T09:53:00.001-07:00

Samantha Pynn is quickly becoming one of my favorite designers. I love how effortless her rooms look. They're not full of things or over-decorated. They're simple and polished. She uses old and new (i.e. parsons table with victorian chairs above), color and neutrals (white bedding with pops of green all around the room in first photo above), and she just makes rooms look good and liveable. Not too stuffy, not to fancy, juuuuuust right.

C is for Chloe

2011-04-25T13:25:00.000-07:00

Personalized necklace with birthstone and pearl by Made by Sam

Hospital door hanger (now in nursery) made by Sarah Manning

Personalized baby block gift from friend!) made by Craft-E-Family

Happy Easter!

2011-04-24T19:27:00.000-07:00

Daydreamer

2011-04-23T19:36:00.001-07:00

Office Space

2011-04-21T14:35:00.000-07:00

Love this space. Everything about it. I wouldn't mind if my work space looked like this. Nope, sure wouldn't mind Mr. Rhino starring over my work on a beautiful yellow parsons desk.

My job has changed for the next couple of months. My new position has me working all day, even through the night, but the project I'm working on is pretty fabulous. My office?... Well, for now I guess I'll settle for the natural wood TV stand I have set up next to the couch that I can reach with my right hand while I hold my baby with my left. And I have a pretty sweet pink boppy wrapped around my waist that also works as a labtop cushion. My co-worker stays to herself for the most part. She likes to eat a lot and she can sure smell up the place sometimes. "Office" dress code is pretty basic; accessible shirt either v-neck or button down with comfortable cotton pants or skirt not above the knee! So maybe my office space isn't as cool as this one, but it's pretty fun (minus the part when Chloe the co-worker spits up on herself...so embarrassing).

*Lonnymag

I'm a mom. Whoa.

2011-04-18T13:49:00.000-07:00

So what do you call someone who is happy to change a full diaper, sleeps in 2.5 hour intervals and whose heart grows bigger by the ounce? A new mom. That is my current title since giving birth to the sweetest little girl I know, my daughter Chloe Anne.

On March 29^th my husband and I had our weekly doctor appointment and everything seemed to be routine, until the doctor asked us to sit in her office. We hadn’t been in there before so we knew something was up. The doctor came in and simply said, “You’re going to have a baby today.” My immediate response? Tears. I mean sure you can say, “I’m going to get a haircut today”, but the whole, “You’re going to have a baby today.” Now, that is life changing!

We gathered our emotions and left the room to call our parents and begin our new journey. We got checked in to start the process and CT went home to grab our bags. I was semi-prepared but asked CT to bring my toiletries…he brought back every piece of makeup I own, but forgot the contact solution and face wash! Ha he tried.

I was induced around 11:00a.m. I’ll spare you the details prior to that, but let’s just say it’s not pretty. I labored for an hour and then it was epidural time! No judgement on ladies out there who did it naturally…willingly (including my twin sister), but that’s crazy. After God’s wonderdrug I would watch the monitor and see a huge contraction come and go and I didn’t feel a thing! It was fabulous.

I had friends hang out with me during the day and the time went by so fast. I was pretty chill most of the time and then the nurse came in to help me move to my right side. I made the move and things changed. I felt this major pressure and it was game time! I had gone from 7cm to 9cm in no time. The doctor and nurse came in and said it was time to push. I assumed my position and my loving husband had my back, literally. He was such a champ. He coached me all the way and really helped. I got so into it I needed the oxygen mask. I think I took the “running a sprint” too literally. I had my game face on and nothing was going to stop me. I pushed for about 45 minutes and at 8:58p.m. Chloe entered the world at 5.9lbs and 19inches. I can still close my eyes and remember the exact moment the doctor placed her on my chest. Whew it was unbelievable! She was beautiful, perfect and sweet. Her parents were overwhelmed, stunned and joyful. We had done this. We created this little person! What a blessing. What an honor. What a responsibility.

My parents and in-laws had all flown in and arrived within 30 minutes of her arrival. It was so special to have them there to share in this once in a lifetime moment. What made it even more special was it was my dad's birthday! He was so proud. She'll be connected to a great man for the rest of her life and that makes my heart smile.

In the weeks since, the reality has set in that this little girl is completely and solely dependent on us to feed her, bath her, clothe her and ultimately just love her. That reality has also influenced my faith. I have realized I must completely trust the Lord to take care of me in the same way; to simply, “Let Go and Let God”. Pre-baby my prayers were me-focused, “I want, I need, Lord give me, Provide this...” I was missing the point. I don’t know best. I’m really an infant who needs provision and guidance. Now, during the quiet moments in the middle of the night when my only concern is providing nutrition for this little girl, I sit and listen. I don’t voice my thoughts or needs. I don’t think about the uncertainty of the future or let my mind wander. For the first time, this multi-tasker, overly organized new mom does nothing. I’m allowing my spiritual walk to mimic my new lifestyle; steady and peaceful. It’s a wonderful thing.

Even changing diapers that are colors of the rainbow are wonderful! I adore watching her raise her arms high to embrace her new world. I love when she gives me a secret side smile and throws me her pirate eye to make sure she isn’t missing anything. She is already showing signs of waking up like her mom… not pleasant, but she’s quickly soothed by food… also like her mom! Sure each day seems to take on a repeated routine, but I wouldn’t change anything because I know this time will go by quickly. Before I know it she’ll be raising those arms to hug me as she heads off to college…oh I can’t go there. For now, I continue to catch myself staring at this beautiful miracle and tears begin to form (hey, hormones happen). On my first outing without her I looked at her photo on my phone only 100 times and called my husband to check on her about seven times in a span of thirty minutes…do the math. It physically hurt to be away from her. I forgot what I went out for, walked in a few circles and went right by the sale rack.

Chloe has become my world. Her whimpers make my heart jump and her cries make it break. No book or class could have prepared me for this new role as Mom. It’s challenging, yet rewarding. She makes me so proud and she’s not even a month old! Who knew someone so tiny could make your heart so big?

Her daddy and I have a big job ahead of us, but we’re ready for the assignment of our lives. We pray over her throughout the day that her soul will be filled with the grace of our Lord. That she will have a heart of service, love unconditionally and live with eternal compassion.

****Stay tuned for items from my journal that I wish I had known before baby.
Ex. Night sweats are serious. You’ll wake up thinking you've slept in a sauna with hair matted to your forehead and everything. Not sexy.

TRADhome

2011-04-16T21:23:00.000-07:00

A new magazine!!! TRADHome. A marriage of Lonny Mag and Traditional Home.

It's my weekend read. I love a good online mag...with 347 pages of fabulousness!

MIZ-ZOU

2011-04-14T20:07:00.001-07:00

She's the cutest Mizzou Cubette ever! MIZzzzzzzzzzzzZOU is what she had to say.

Free Stuff!

2011-04-13T09:28:00.000-07:00

Who doesn't love free stuff? Get your mouse a clicking over to my fab friend's blog Mimi & Meg to fill out a short survey and put yourself in the running for these rad accessories. Yes, it's that easy.

Nursery by the Numbers

2011-04-08T19:28:00.000-07:00

I had intended to do this pre-baby, but well...we know how that went. Ha! So here is a directory of how the nursery came together. It was a collection of selections from a variety of places. It took some time to find everything, but I'm so happy it came together. Chloe and I love spending time in there!

(1.) Robin's Nest by Benjamin Moore (2.) Graphic prints by friend, free (3.) Cross by Christy Henderson

(4.) Jenny Lind crib, $200 and bedding from Ross, $40 (5.) Bookshelf from Target, $60 (6.) Vintage suitcase from twin sister bought off Etsy, gift (7.) Repainted side table from Repeat Street $20 (8.) Pillow cover from Etsy, two for $20 (9.) Grandma Brown's Glider (10.) Footstool from Repeat Street recovered and repainted, $12 (11.) Window panels from West Elm, $40

Photo Left: (1.) Selection of frames and embroidery rings painted with colors used in nursery, $20 (2.) Fabric from Quilt Home, $30

Photo Right: (1.) Mirror from Orange Peel in Fondern, $24 (2.) Lamp shade from Sweet Dreams, $30 and Lamp Base from Goodwill, $8 (3.) Refinished dresser from Antique Mall of the South in Ridgeland, $275.

Face time

2011-04-08T18:34:00.000-07:00

I've so enjoyed getting to know this little person. Each day has been so special. She is changing each day and I'm taking it all in. These are some fun faces I'm able to snap after we get done eating. She makes life fun!

Knitted with Love

2011-04-07T20:07:00.000-07:00

This morning began by opening a special package with my husband while our baby girl slept in the nearby moses basket. What we unwrapped was something truly special and remarkable.

In early March my husband's Mimi passed away. She is so missed, but the memories of her love and fun-loving spirit stay with us daily. In a way only the Lord could orchastrate Mimi continues to be with us during this special time in our lives through a small sweater. Here is where it gets good.

My in-laws were back home in Nashville shopping at their local Fresh Market and ran into a distant family friend. They shared the news of Mimi's passing as well as the joy of their upcoming arrival of a granddaughter that would be named Chloe. The family friend shared her condolences, but had more to share. She went home and found a sweater Mimi had knitted for her daughter Chloe ten years earlier. She got in touch with our family and sent it to us in the mail. Today, we received that precious sweater with Chloe's name knitted on the front by the hands of our sweet Mimi.
What are the odds? How is it possible? Isn't it ironic? Well, no it's simply a divine design by our creator who knitted our lives with love and purpose beyond our comprehension.
I'm so so thankful for this story and this sweater. Now our little Chloe will be wrapped in the love of her Great Mimi! How Wonderful!

Chloe's first photo shoot

2011-04-05T19:55:00.001-07:00

My sweet girl. The headband arrived and we put it to good use today! It's perfect on her and so her style!

Meet Chloe!

2011-04-01T13:01:00.000-07:00

Meet Chloe Anne Steckel! She arrived Tuesday, March 29th at 8:58p.m. weighing 5lbs. and 9 oz. and 20 inch. long. She is such an incredible blessing! My heart is being used in ways I never knew possible!

Etsy Find: Photography

2011-03-28T18:56:00.000-07:00

I think this is a must buy. The beach + turquoise + the letter C = me in a photo. Check out more of this fab Etsy artist here.

Unrefined Comfort

2011-03-24T20:49:00.000-07:00

Wow. I love this room from the top to the bottom. Literally. This is the result of some fine decorating editing. Each piece is carefully selected and placed, yet it has an unrefined personality that exudes comfort. Take into consideration collection of items (books and bottles), repetition (blanket, pillow and door) and pattern (bench and window treatment) when you're writing the details of your room.

DIY invite

2011-03-23T19:45:00.000-07:00

My sweet friend C made these precious invitations. They make me smile from head to toe. It's a definite framer I'll show baby girl one day and share the story of friendship. Friends like this one fill life with all the good stuff!