RockNRegalia

Thankful

2015-11-19T21:45:00.001-08:00

I just wanted to put it out there today that I am thankful. In a time when so much has shifted, as life continuously does, I am thankful.

I am thankful for my Jesus who saves me from myself and my sin. Who gave his everything so that I could love him.

I am thankful that God saw fit to bring me the husband of my youth so we could grow miraculously old together.

I am thankful for the little boys who scream, fight, giggle, mess up, grow, change, cry, and, most importantly, cuddle me. They are the joy God has given me so that I might know what the Father feels for us his children.

I am thankful for provision. God's provision that is more when we need more and less when we need to rely on him and focus on his faithfulness.Praise Him for this wisdom.

I am thankful for friendships old and new, ones I was scared to let go and others I was terrified to begin.

I am thankful for the crisp Autumn air that the California desert has been longing for.

*Image screen shot from the PINK app

I am thankful for leisure and work, for focus and distraction, for who I am and who I will become.

I am thankful for parents who raised me in a manner that fit me. Although it was not perfect, it was a joint effort with two wonderful grandmothers who aided in working out the kinks. I am thankful that now they are the grandparents and get to enjoy time in that role.

I am thankful for inlaws. I may have the most miraculous inlaws God ever created. I am so thankful for these crazy Cuban people who have a crazy love for God and my family. They are awesome!!!

I am thankful for students who really are pretty special. As a professor, I have cultivated relationships with some of the most genuine human beings. They teach me as I teach them, and they grow me ever more toward compassion.

There is so much more I am thankful for. The list of blessings God grants me day by day and moment by moment is unfathomable.

*downloadable image from first5.org

I hope you take a moment to praise God and graciously thank him too.

Jayna Rae

Polka Dot Passion

2015-07-09T21:36:00.001-07:00

Toward the beginning of this year one of my favorite gals of Instagram, Dictiocanary, mentioned wearing polka dots a ton. Then she realized post hoc that maybe she didn't wear them as much as she though, so she challenged herself to embrace her love affair with polka dots more often.

This is my newest polka dot dress. It is handmade and came from the Goodwill for $4. It is PERFECT!

Well, this got me thinking about polka dots. At first I thought that I too need more polka dots in my life; I clearly was not wearing them as often as I would like. Nor did I own enough.

Skirt and bag: Kate Spade

After musing on this for a few weeks and looking down at my Kate Spade Pavilion Dot bag and it's matching zipper pouch, I realized that I have a profuse amount of polkas in my life.

Here is a snap shot tour of some of my favorites. I tried to get as many items as possible and a variety of types.

My sheets:

And, I just bought even newer polka dot sheets(SHHHH! FrenchBull $15 on clearance at Target)

Hair scarves in different colors, sizes, and shapes of polka dots:

Bracelets:

Jamberry Nail Wraps (This is an affiliate link to my business page):

CLOTHES:

Burgundy on Burgundy dot: Forever 21 , black and white polka dot: high school 15 years ago, and red and white dot: Alannah Hill (from eBay) SIMILAR

Cute Mint Summer Dress:

With a little mint polka dot hair flower:

This background is the skirt of the dress above

Swimwear:

Black&white: Target Green&white: Handmade by me
Similar to Black&White Here

Belts with polka dots:

Storage bins in my closet with polka dots:

Sleepwear (including slippers) Both from Target Christmas 2014:

Scrapbook supplies:

I even tried some polka dots when I did my Gwynnie Bee free trial.

There are so many more throughout my home: Shoes, cups, book marks, underwear, slips, and whatever else can be dotted.

Okay, so I think that it is clear that I may actually have enough polka dots in my life, or do I? I am sure that I will always buy more and more. I just cannot resist a good dot.

How about you? Do you have enough dots in your life? What are your favorite polka dot pieces?

Have a Rockin' Day

With the exception of my Jamberry link, there is no affiliation between me and any of the brands or people linked above. They are merely brand and style preferences.

My First Bible Journaling Experience

2015-05-21T22:54:00.001-07:00

At the end of 2014 I became aware of Bible journaling through my IG pal Andrea of Retrohipmama. I thought it was such a great idea; it did, after all, combine two of my favorite things: learning about God and paper crafting/hand lettering.

After some research and checking out Shana Noel's blog, Illustrated Faith, and the Bible journaling Community facebook group, I knew I wanted a journaling Bible of my own,

I was blessed by my friend and bible Study co-leader with said journaling bible as a Christmas Gift.

I have done some traditional annotating and basic hand lettering in it, but this is the first time I have gone big. Now, it is nothing compared to the amazing journaling art that is out there, but I am happy because my notes are the more important thing.

While studying this morning in John I was reading about the woman at the well. I know this story, but I made sure to be careful and intentional in my reading.

John 4:24, 35b-36, and 42 were the verses that most struck me anew. When I reached the end of 42, I knew that I was going to finally do my first full journaling page.

I had a map chipboard piece that I received in my March Odyssey Project Life kit from Studio Calico. When I read, "...and we know that this is indeed the savior of the world," I immediately knew I had to use it.

I really am not sure when I would have used it in my album, so it is wonderful to use it in my Bible.

Here is a little of my process for today.

First, I stamped using two stamps from My Minds Eye Lost and Found Two collection. I used a teal ink I purchased in the Target dollar spot.

I then added my chipboard map sticker.

At this point I began my annotations in a blue gel pen also from the Target dollar spot. I wrote in regard to verse 42:

We first learn of Jesus from others, and then we see him for ourselves just as the Samaritans learned from the woman and then acknowledged via their own experience.

I made this note because it is a moment demonstrative of the importance of being ecstatic about Christ, as the woman at the well was ecstatic that though she was a fallen person who was essentially known as the town whore, she was immediately embraced by Christ who offered her living water in lieu of the H2O in the well.

Once I was done focusing on this section, I moved backward to verses 35b-36. I had already bracketed off and underlined this section before moving to my office to work on the page. The underlined portion is the beginning of 36, which reads, "Already the one who reaps is receiving wages and gathering fruit for eternal life."

This is A response from Jesus to the disciples who are perplexed by his interaction with the woman, as well as the fact he states that he is full though he has yet to eat. As often is the case with the disciples, and believers, they are focused on the wrong thing. While they fret, the woman is already spreading the words of Jesus and bringing others to meet him and partake in his presence. Therefore, I wrote in green gel pen (from the same dollar spot pack):

Sometimes we are too busy waiting for the harvest to realize that we can already reap.

Once this was done I added six diamond stickers from a different Studio Calico kit (Walden, I think). These came on a washi like roll. I never thought I would use them when they arrived, but I use them all the time. I put two blue wood grain up top, two wheat diamonds under the note about reaping. (I couldn't resist tapping into the idea of harvest.) Then, at the bottom, I added a blue cross hatched or lined design and a blue YES, because I wanted to say yes to Jesus and yes to reaping rather than waiting for the harvest.

I enjoyed this experience. I know I will journal more throughout the year(s), as time allows for this extra step in my study time. I may share from time to time.

Do you have a journaling bible?

Would you want one?

It is a great time to start because Shanna Noel just teamed up with Bella Blvd to release their first Illustrated Faith Kit. It is in Pre-order (I am not affiliated with either company. I just think that this is a awesome set that people she pick up so that they can get in the word more).

Let me know? Share.

Until next time hve a Rockin' Day

Clutter Free Book Review

2015-04-21T12:23:00.001-07:00

Okay, so this post is a long time coming. I actually finished the book back in January, but I spent the rest of the month, and the beginning of February, enjoying my Winter Break from work. Read: Being LAZY! Really though, my back was pretty messed up from my November accident, so after taking boys to school I would lay in bed, read, veg out on TV, and try not to damage my back further. I am so thankful for my AMAZING chiropractic team who have since moved me further along toward back health.

Back to the book. As you may know I was part of Kathi Lipp's Clutter Free Book Launch Team. This does mean that I received my copy of the book for free.

I am so glad I participated in this challenge and on this team. It was a blessed experience. I have tackled a ton of clutter, already purging over 1,000 items. It would be more, but I lost time and energy with my back down.

Each day, for 21 days, I received an email with daily tasks to help tackle my clutter. Now that the book is out, you can ALWAYS sign up for the challenge here. The best part about this is that I saved all of the emails in a folder titled "Clutter Free" so that I can redo them at any point in time, which will likely be every break, just so that I can help fight against my own very lazy tendency of not taking care of business: truth be told, I would rather be scrapbooking or shopping.

I was going to wait for my group yard sale to hopefully make some money, but instead I did this (11 bags) with most of the stuff and took it to my favorite Goodwill around the corner.

Goodwill is BIG in my community; we have two that are wonderful, including job placement and teen centers.

Overall, I feel like I am managing my clutter better because of this book, which is a HUGE statement from me on several levels. Firstly, I do not tend to complete non-fiction/ help books in this amount of time. Clearly, being part of the launch team and challenge was a driving force in this. Lipp's writing is witty and candid, which makes the reading smooth. If you ever get a chance to see her speak live, it is a real treat.

Although, like any book, I may not be able to complete all the challenges or in the way intended, I LOVED this book. I think it is something that many woman who struggle with clutter can benefit from reading, especially since there is the accompanying challenge and facebook group for inspiration and accountability.

So, if you struggle in this area, grab your copy here.

Have a Rockin' Day!!!!!!

Gwynnie Bee Review

2015-03-25T16:04:00.001-07:00

Several months back one of my favorite bloggers Britney Sherman of Va-Voom Vintage Posted about receiving her first Gwynnie Bee box via a free trial. I mused over it for awhile, signed up for their emails, but didn't jump in.

However, in February I decided that a free trial is, well, worth a try. I am so glad I tried it. I got some cute clothes for work to mix up my wardrobe for 30 days.

Here is a smattering of my experience followed by an overall evaluation.

First, my boxes came with my first three items: all dresses.

The DRESSES:

Spuce and Sage

Cherry Velvet

Triste

I have never worn or purchased any of these brands before, so this was a pretty exciting trial.

I immediately noticed that the size Large Cherry Velvet dress might be too big, so I put it on right away.

And I was right. Rather than a 10 as a large, it is more like a 14. So, keep this in mind if you ever purchase this brand. I was sad, but mailed it back right away so that a new dress could ship out. It did, but I will get to that.

The first dress that I wore right away was the green and blue, mod print, TRISTE dress.

I loved this dress. Great Fit. Great colors. It is a 0X.

It was perfect for work.

The next day I wore the Spruce and Sage dress to bible study.

This dress is a size 10.

I paired it with a green belt that I have and a cute hair flower.

Nice and springy, which was weather appropriate that day.

I liked this dress, but I wasn't as excited about it as the TRISTE. The colors are super rich, but the color was not properly ironed flat, and currently I do not have an iron as I broke mine in November.

It needed pressing to keep the interfaced piece down, so my steamer did not cut it.

Matching shoes to the belt.

I had mailed out the green Cherry Velvet dress Wednesday. By Saturday its replacement had arrived, which was awesome. We had a dance that night, and it was my back up dress in case my eShakti dress (post here) didn't arrive in time. However, my ABSOLUTELY PERFECT eShakti dress did arrive, so I wore that one. You can read about it here.

The red dress looked great!

My other items were another Triste dress.

I almost bought it, but I decided to save my money for the new Kate Spade outlet that opened in my area. I did LOVE it! I just love Kate Spade more.

Then there was this Land's End skirt.

Skirt: Gwynnie Bee/Lands End Cardigan: Ann Taylor LOFT

It was actually too big, but since it was jersey, and my sweater covered it, no one was the wiser.

My overall experience was good. Canceling was simple. However, I was disappointed to never get the Hell Bunny items I wanted to try from my closet. They were the catalyst for signing up after all.

As far as recommendations, I would say that if you are a 2x or larger then this may be great for you. Many items did not come in my smaller end of the size range, and I have little trouble finding professional clothes for a great price at Target, on eBay, at the Goodwill, or most anywhere really. I am a woman's med/large (sometimes xl up top) and wear anything from an 8-10 (rarely a 12) depending on the cut and designer.

I hope this review is helpful.

PS The eShakti coupon code is good until March 30. Go check out the post for the code.

eShakti LOVE and REVIEW

2015-03-06T12:12:00.000-08:00

A few weeks ago I was contacted by eShakti to review a dress of my choice. I have heard a ton about this company, especially on wonderful blogs like Junebugs and Georgia Peaches. The dresses they share always look amazing, so I have been dying to try the company out.

So, this contact was a dream come true. I was excited that my humble little blog would be contacted.

For once the desert wind was helpful to my photo shoot. Look at that hair.

I promptly chose the perfect dress, which was actually a difficult choice. My husband helped, plus I knew that I had an event coming up with my son that was Nautical themed, so I chose a Navy and Red Fit and Flare in poplin and tulle. With pockets. Every dress should have pockets.

Dress: compliments eShakti Earrings: Match Accessories

SWOON!

The best part about eShakti is not the fact that there are far too many amazing dresses to fit inside my budget. Seriously gorgeous and reasonably priced.

The best part is that the dresses are fully customizable.


Gold glitter Pumps: Target Clearance (Several Years ago) Similar in espadrille

I chose to customize my dress to my measurements. I received more compliments on this dress when I wore it to the Mother Son dance last Saturday than I have ever received on any dress in my extensive wardrobe.

I am CONVINCED that the fact it was customized to my measurements is the secret to its perfection. Plus, what gal doesn't want a tag that says custom? Can you see that in the photo. These are shots of how well folded and packed the dress was. After all, style icons like Jacki O and Audrey Hepburn often tailored clothes to their bodies specific shapes, and it is the secret of a great Hollywood stylist compared to one with just a good eye. A custom fit turns a good dress into the perfect dress.

I also added length to the dress. I am a mom who tries her best to be modest, especially for an event at my son's school.

The comfort of the dress was great as well. We danced the night away. Little boys love to dance.

I styled the dress simply with gold sparkle, round toed pumps to keep with the nautical theme. Also keeping with the nautical theme I changed my Jamicure to Jamberry Nautical. Look how perfect a match they are.

I will DEFINITELY be wearing this dress again and again. In fact, my little Monster has already asked if I would wear it on his Fourth of July birthday this year. How could I say no.

Just had to share how handsome my date for the dance was.

If you follow my Instagram feed, do not be surprised if you see this dress again and again.

Now, for all of you lovely readers, I have an awesome offer from eShakti (Valid until March 30). They are offering 10% off using the code: rocknregalia

Just enter it in the promotional code box.

Here are some of the amazing dresses that I am adding to my wishlist. My birthday is coming up in May, so I know that I may get the opportunity to spoil myself a smidge.

/a/ Flying Hummingbirds Poplin Dress

/b/ Owl Embellished Two Tone Poplin Dress

/c/ The Ace of Spades Skirt

It seems I am leaning toward greens this season. Three of the other dresses I am in live with are green as well. It is my favorite color, so I am not surprised.

What dresses are your favorites? Do you already own eShakti.

Lovelies go buy a dress so that you too can have a Rockin' Day full of customized love.

In My Mailbox This Week

2015-02-09T22:59:00.003-08:00

Okay, I am not going to lie, I get fun mail at least once a week. There are several reasons for this ranging from some subscription boxes I currently have (Birchbox, IPSY, Studio Calico, and Stylebox for Jamberry) to the magazines my boy's receive (this was something I requested as Christmas gifts: BEST IDEA EVER).

This week though, I was extra excited about my mail box arrivals. Two items that I ordered to arrive in December (hopefully), arrived this week. Both are printed materials who had issues or delays in printing compounded by the port strike and weather issues.

First, My Intentional Home Daily Journals arrived.

I ordered these on Black Friday. There is one for me and one for my six year strong Bible study co-leader. She is super organized, so it is the perfect gift for her. I yearn to be organized, so I am excited to put it into practice.

Isn't it gorgeous?!?!?!!!!
(buy here)

Oh, I love the little areas and the explanation in the front of why each section is there.

They came in cute little bags, and there was a bonus for the wait.

I cannot wait to fill this little book out for The Cuban Cowboy as his Valentine's gift tonight. I think it will be a great thing for him to keep in his travel bag as a reminder of my sincere devotion when he travels.

Then, my THRYVE magazine issue three arrived. This was BEYOND exciting. I loved the first arrival, but seriously I am all about this magazine.

In fact, I am considering sending in a portfolio to become a featured writer (prayers for that).

Thryve is a new (Third quarterly issue kind of new) Christian publication aimed at women. I was introduced to it when Bonita of Bonitarose.com posted a photo on her IG. I recognized my friend Aurora of AuroraVilchis.com on the cover immediately, which led me to find out what this magazine was all about. I order that issue in digital copy, and I just knew that I needed a dead tree version the next time around.

Well, the magazine is phenomenal (GET YOURS HERE), and the gals in charge are absolute dolls. I mean they are sweet as pie. Though the arrival is a tad later than December, there were constant updates regarding the delay often to reassure all customers that they were not forgotten. And, for the delay they gave free access to the digital copy while printing issues were resolved. This means I have read portions of the magazine already, but I am ecstatic to dig deep with the real deal. Additionally, they sent coupon codes to some of the awesome handmade shops run by the sponsors of the magazine.

Then, when the real deal magazine arrived, The Dwell Journal was included (swoon).

This journal is a guided means to internalize and take notes on the articles in the magazine. Best idea EVER!!!! I am very pleased. It was ALL worth the wait.

I will order from both companies again, soon, I am sure.

Cost of Clutter

2015-01-06T21:36:00.000-08:00

Items cost money. Storing them costs money. Maneuvering around them when they aren't properly stored costs time and peace. Is it worth the cost?

These are some of the issues that Kathi Lipp raises in her Clutter Free challenge.

One thing that is encouraged is taking time to log all new purchases with their purpose and place of storage. Such a smart plan. It forces you to think about what you are bringing into the home. Is it a necessity or an impulse purchase (that Target One Spot is dangerous as far as impulse buys go).

I enjoy that this book doesn't just address getting rid of items, but discovering how to boy covet and desire more than is actually needed. We live in a fast paced society of fast fashion, fast decor, and fast trends. This causes people to want more and accumulate useless objects. If we take time to consider purchases, then clutter can be diminished to some degree. Contentment in what we have is key.

This is only one of several ways the book addresses the issue.

Okay, so now to my progress. I fell behind while ill, but I made up for it by doubling up on items the next two days. The last clutter free related post left us with 143 items.

I have since purged an additional items 457.

This brings me to the Grand total of: 600 even (I could not have planned that number if I tried).

The break down is as follows:

Wednesday (New years Eve), I rid our house of 69 items. I did so by tackling the sock drawers in my bedroom dresser and grabbing misplaced and broken items as I saw them throughout the house. They went from this:

Sorry for dark photos, it was around 10 at night I got to this. You can see that the drawer is stuffed though.

To this as the result:

Tights drawer

Now there is space in this drawer. Pretty. Socks are bulky and take up space. Ridding myself of my least favorite socks gives me room. I moved my gloves and leg warmers to a different drawer in the closet, which also gave additional space. Fantastic!!!!

Then on Thursday I purged 45 items throughout various areas of the house and two of the cubbies from my large Ikea square shelving system in the office (my target area).

Friday was only 29 items, most of them were from Christmas items I sacked while putting away Christmas til next year. I did end up with one if my Christmas containers completely empty in the end, which is awesome.

I am a bit behind on the specific challenges as I play catch up from the sick days this week, and from just enjoying hubby's vacation time. However, now that we are into a more normal week, I have been able to go into overdrive, especially since husband headed back to work. His vacation was such a blessing though.

So Saturday was one item tossed out (thank you dogs for eating the toy) before celebrating The Cuban Cowboy's birthday at Travel Town in LA, followed by a date to Mimi's Cafe and the movies for The Hobbit (love gift cards).

Sunday was a rest day with zero items.

Monday was the best day yet!!! I got rid of a total of 102 items throughout. I caught up on the kitchen drawers that were part of the challenge.

After photos:

I may be in need if bags. I think I have extras in the laundry room. Fingers crossed.

I also tackled another portion of my target area: the office. It is much improved.
BEFORE:

AFTER:

I haven't really been counting trash, but in the office much of the clutter is paper work/trash.
Therefore, I did count it in here as I threw most of it I in this awesome Target paper bag. Paper bags are great for recycling. I always ask for them at the local Super Target. Most of what left that green cubby was paper items, then I placed scrapbook items that had less adequate homes into the cubby instead.

Then today, Tuesday, started out a bit slow, but ended in 187 items out the door!!!!! Top number thus far! Plus, I caught up on the purse challenge and today's challenges that I received in my email, one of which was that high traffic area catch all, which I showed a photo of the first day.
Just in case you have forgotten:

Now it looks like this:

Purse: this is my purse of the week. Mine tend to stay fairly empty because I use other bags, but this time it got crazy in my purse.

Why is there a candy bar in there?

After:

Then I attacked two of my bathroom drawers at separate times today. I have been saying I would do it for about a year now, so I am glad to have it done.

The before mess. As you can see I had already begun to sort when I took the photo.

The after result.

Drawer two only has an after:

Why do I keep things like empty perfume bottles? Crazy woman.

My oldest little Monster also got rid of 24 items from his room to make space for his Christmas gifts. I thought it was a good job.

Overall things are going slow and steady, which I think is best for long term improvement.

If I think about the cost of leaving the clutter, which is where I began today's post, I think about the forgotten Olive Garden gift card I found today in the catch all.

I also think about what my husband mentioned, that things look like they are supposed to. How many fights has it cost us over my own guilt for the clutter if he mentions its existence? These fights could have all been avoided if things just looked like they are supposed to. When did clutter become normal?

Are you decluttering?

How is your progress? I would love to hear.

You can always join the challenge and grab a copy of the book.

*I did receive a copy of the book for review c/o Kathi Lipp and her publishing team.

Small and Simple Holidays inspiring a New Year

2015-01-01T21:00:00.001-08:00

Happy New Year!

I wanted to start the year by reflecting back on this past holiday, especially since it inspired my one little word for 2015: SIMPLICITY.

This year we wanted to keep things small and simple around here for Christmas. This included the idea of only buying four gifts per person (want, need, wear, read) and buying as much handmade or small business items as possible (I also think that American made is a bonus way to support our economy here in the states).

Much of my Black Friday shopping supported this endeavor. And though not all if it was for gifts for others, most was holiday related. These non-gift items included materials for my December Daily album from Freckled Fawn, Studio Calico, items from ScrapbookSteals.com, scrapbookdailydeals.

I also got some planner stickers from It's planning Time

and labels for the boys items from Mabel's labels.

Handmade is awesome! It truly is. This year I purchased many handmade items and items from small businesses.

These atomic brooches from The Crave Yard and thank you brooch from Australian artist Ella Mobbs who founded the brand Creep Heart.

She sent it with this super awesome print I ordered for our home as a shared gift for me and the Cuban cowboy.

We are going to be redoing a wall with art in the very near future. Be on the look out.

I also got some cute small business clothes for the boys. First this awesome shirt from Pow Wow Prints, a California based clothier.

It came in this bag, which will make a great cross body bag once I add a strap.

I picked up this Warrior Poet (love this brand) shirt also on Steals.com.

From California brand Lil Lou Lou, I bought this cute cowboy top.

I know that is more than two shirts, but for the wear and read we did multiple items in a single box.

For me, we went down to the PUG (Pinup Girl Clothing) Yardsale a few weeks back and snagged two items.

Spanish Fan Dress

Dolores top in White (orange room makes it look orange. Sorry)

Both are made in the USA. It is also extra great to support so many California brands.

Another way we brought in small businesses to our Christmas was the mantel.

I purchased some prints from Lovely Lines Design and this awesome string art from Crystal at Thread Therapy (My mom got the same string art piece in a different color way as a gift).

Crystal also was the artisan behind our 2014 Christmas ornaments. They are so perfect.

And we have two of each design. The boys both chose snowflakes. I wrote their names and the year on the back.

We were lucky enough to even be able to bring the idea of small into the read area of our gift giving with this recently published children's book Thank You, Frankie: How God Used a Kid and His Sandwich authored by the daughters of our pastor and illustrated by the woman behind Eisy Morgan.

Not only did my RolyPoly get a copy, but my SILs little girl, and I am sending one to each of my cousins in Idaho for their households.

Since, I am now an incredibly lucky lady who sells Jamberry, I did gift some Jams to a few little ladies in my life and a cousin. I am my own small business after all.

Further ways we incorporated small was by purchasing a scarf and some book marks from the global gift fair held at our church at the beginning of the month. These items are handmade around the world, and ALL proceeds go directly to the artisans.

Roly Poly got a big boy mattress from grandma so we could convert his bed.

So I made (or am almost done making) a quilted comforter for him. It is made from his swaddling blankets.

Finally, I ordered these cute bible study journals from Intentional Home for me and a gal pal.

They will not arrive for a few more weeks, but they were purchased for Christmas.

There were still some Legos, makeup purchases, binoculars, books, headphones that were purchased from mainstream retailers. However, as you can see, much of what we gave was focused on simplicity. This is something I want to focus on for the next 365 days.

Do you have one little word for 2015?

How might you simplify your life so that the richest treasures can shine through?

Have a great new year. I will be back tomorrow evening with an update on my Clutter Free Challenge.

Clutter Free: Counting

2014-12-30T17:48:00.001-08:00

One part of the tasks that a reader is challenged to in Kathi Lipp's book Clutter Free is to get rid of 2000 items. I passed out when I first saw the number. However, I am up for the challenge. If you are up for one too, you can sign up for free HERE.

On my first day, which is featured in this post, I cleaned out 89 items. They weren't all from the area featured, but I got rid of them all the same.

Since then I have purged an additional 54. Slow and steady people. My total thus far is 143. Not too shabby in my opinion. Oh, I didn't really count paper trash, although it is totally approved per the directions. I just do not have time for that.

On Saturday I tackled another peripheral area of paper storage, this sideboard in the hallway. I actually found that there was not as much paper as I thought, but toys that I find in the hallway and put in the green bucket to be put away later. You know because the boys' rooms are not four feet away. LAZY!!!!

So I dove in. I took maybe 20 min (I always forget to do the 15 min timer part. It may put too much pressure on me.) This area went from this

This is a close up of the over stuffed bucket.

To this

29 items gone and many put in their proper places.

Sunday I was going to take a break, but the I went into my office, which is our cat room as well, to check on Patches. And I decided to take the quick, suggested 15 min to tackle one area of the room. I have been avoiding the room, even though I cleaned part of it out in October (the same part I tackled today). I think I really only took 5 -10 minutes on this area. It looked bad, but wasn't really.

It's the under area of this desk that is going to be a hassle.

Here is the outcome. With 21 items gone from either this space or random clean up throughout the house today.

Nice and simple. I do still need to do something more streamlined with that pile of photos, but that is for another day. At least they have a home for now.

Monday I was sicksicksick! So, I had to put off part of challenge two. I did the reading though. I did manage to get rid of 3 items in the morning, just three I walked by and was sick of seeing.

The bonus of the day. That tray cleaned in day one served me yummy soup in bed. It couldn't have happened if I hadn't tackled it first, so SCORE!

As far as today, Tuesday, well we had an important errand to do. We had to pick up my mom and take her to San Diego. While we were there, we had to have lunch with our friends because we don't often get to make the two hour drive. So, although today's challenge was 30 items for the day, I am totaling 1. I am not ashamed of this because the reading for yesterday and today tackle the idea of spirituality and costs. Costs clutter can cause to our relationships with friends, family, and God. Therefore, I was not going to allow decluttering to cost me these things either (Plus, I am still a bit under the weather so the trip today has left me tired. Tomorrow is a new day. And I can tackle two places, if I so choose. Why not?

If you sign up let me know! Also, I will be giving a copy of the book away, so be on the look out in the Friday post.

Clutter Free-Intro/Day one

2014-12-26T21:02:00.001-08:00

I love Kathi Lipp. She is so raw, real, hilarious, and God centered. I am blessed to have the opportunity to help in the launch of one of her latest works: Clutter Free.

Ya, that's a screen shot, complete with the current price.

I am excited because this is such a great way to begin a new year (even if it be a few days early).

Each Tuesday and Friday I will bring to you an update on the progress I am making. Today I am tackling the "why" of my clutter, which, truth be told, is in large part laziness. After work and chasing boys and activities and bible study, the last thing I want to do is organize and clean. Boo! However, it would truly make all those other things run more smoothly.

Also, my biggest down fall is paper work. I just do not like it. Not one iota. So, I have been getting better at sorting and trashing (though there is still room for improvement). It's the stuff that I plan on " getting to later" that bites me in the behind.

I have these awesome cubbies for these items, but they need to be cleaned out because I am very "out of sight, out of mind."

Since this is my problem area, I will be mainly focusing on my office/ studio. This is where I create, grade write, hide. Seriously though, I just cannot keep it under control. It gets better each year, but look at the room for improvement that still exists. Yea for goals.

It is extra messy during this holiday season because of wrapping and such.

The other spots are my "alternate" paper hoards that crop up here and there for no apparent reason other than they can.

Hallway sideboard

Filing cabinet in room

Under chest of drawers because I can

TV tray for mugs and magazines etc while into cozy bed

Entryway basket for mail

Kids supply area in dining room

Today was also the instructions for the first challenge, which includes taking only 15 minutes to tackle a single space at a time. I chose the TV tray pictured above for my first project.

Let me remind you of the before.

Okay! Yikes!!!! Here is the after.

You can see the tray! It is amazing! Yay me. Yay Kathi for helping a gal out.

So, follow along. Buy the book and join in. Declutter your life so that you can truly enjoy it in a less stressful way.

I hope that, like me, you get a head start on some of your amazing 2015 plans.

Season of Change

2014-12-20T11:48:00.000-08:00

This is a season of change. A season of crazy things going on in life that are entirely unexpected and different. Over the past few years so many things have shifted or broken. Whether it be the television or coffee maker or our car (three ones over), we have had a ton of things break. Each time we have been able to step back, examine, and simplify.

Some of the most recent changes going on have come with the most prayer and the most stretch.

1. New adventure

I have decided to embark on the awesome adventure that is being a Jamberry consultant. I am overwhelmingly excited for what this can mean, especially that it means pretty nails I can afford in both my monetary and time budgets.

2. New Car

I seriously did not think that I would be getting a new car for several more years. Then, last month, I was in an accident wherein I lost my car. This left us in a bind for several weeks. I am lucky enough that we do have one extra vehicle, though not incredibly reliable. Well, now I am the owner of an awesome 2013 Volkswagen Sportwagen. I am so blessed by God.

3. Launch

I am so blessed that after praying over my application, it was accepted to be a part of Kathi Lipp's launch team for one of her soon to be released books. It addresses an area of life wherein many mom's struggle: clutter. I am very nervous and excited about what God has planned for me in this particular journey. To find out more about this book and previously published works from Kathi Lipp go to her site.

Please pray for me as I embark on these super awesome changes, and I am sure more are alwasy coming right around the corner.

Motivation

2014-04-11T23:47:00.003-07:00

Sometimes I just struggle with motivation and distraction.

I do not know what it is, but I can sit on eBay doing nothing really for hours: window shopping. Yet, I wonder why nothing is done in the house? Why I haven't crafted in months? Why my scrapbook keeps falling farther behind?

photo cred

After spending sometime this evening cleaning up parts of my office and looking through all of my previous blog posts, I now realize that I have just misplaced my focus. I think I knew it, or that I have known it, for awhile. I have been focusing on things, such as clothes. There's nothing intrinsically wrong with this. However, the fact that it is detracting from other things that I LOVELOVELOVE!!!

Now, this is not to say that I am giving up on clothes. Nay, that is not realistic. Instead, it is merely to acknowledge that I need to shift some attention away from online window shopping, especially since I truly prefer to shop in person. Actually, to tell the truth, I don't have much time to go in person; this is why I look online so often.

So, here is the plan:

clean and organize the office/studio space
when the boys go to bed do not retreat to my room where I sit on the cozy bed and veg out online
utilize my office
scrapbook a minimum of 2-3 pages per week
blog and clean/clean and blog

I think that if I am able to do some of these things, then I will push myself forward and get some vitally important creativity done.

Kate Spade From Head to Toe

2014-04-10T21:19:00.001-07:00

Eeek! Today I did something that I don't do too often for several reasons (cost, variety, stylizing); I wore the same designer from head to toe.

Today also marked the midterm for my students, which meant exams, and that I was up late last night, followed by a sun rise morning in order to prep said exam thoroughly. This type of sleep leaves me feeling a need to over compensate by dressing my best. What could be better than Kate Spade? Not much.

The skirt I am wearing is one of my favorites. It's a Lilith Skirt, and I highly recommend it. It is soft and flowy. Plus, it would look great with a petticoat ( I need to get one of those).

My blouse is new to me, but I think that it is actually a NWOT purchase from eBay, because it is clear that it hadn't been washes before; all of the lines are so crisp, and the white is super bright.

The sandals are also an eBay purchase, nay, steal. I scored them for about $11 (including shipping) back in January. I am so glad for the warm weather that is allowing me to put them to use.

Necklaces: Heart- custom/BA grad gift

Bow: Tiffany, Bow earrings: Coach

For the "head" part of my head to toe ensemble, I wore my Jayna sunglasses. However, I felt that my post dedicated to them pretty much covered how awesome they are.

Do you ever do head to toe of a favorite designer? Do you think it is tacky? Let me know?

Love you oodles caboodles.

Have a rockin' Friday!

Busy Momma: ME TIME

2014-04-05T22:30:00.001-07:00

Boys at the dentist this week

To say that I am a busy mom is an understatement. And although I am busy, I have far more free time than I did this same time last year. Since I was MIA in the blogging world last year, that story has never been told. I suppose I will have to prep something on our 2011 crisis that led to 2012 being dedicated to paying medical bills.

Me at the end of a busy day

Outfit--- Sweater( as seen last week)Old Navy, Necklace London Reid, Ribbon: from a gift

Anyway, at present life is full but in a steady way. I have slowed down to spend more time with the boys, especially the little Roly Poly. However, this often leaves me feeling as if I do not get enough me time. Then I wonder, "Am I even supposed to have 'me time'?"

Hmmm... It is something to ponder. Has our egocentric society developed this idea of prioritizing the self so much that as a whole people no longer see family time as " me" time? Truly, spending time with my family should invigorate me, not drain me. It should be something that I see as a blessing, not an annoyance.

I mean look at these silly faces. They fill me up with laughter and joy.

This is a goal I am setting for myself: I am challenging myself to see my children as a part of me and my time with them as "me time". It is time when I get to enjoy the abundant blessings that God has entrusted to me. It is undoubtedly " me time."

At a park in Wrightwood this past Friday.

Editing from rhonna designs app

Will you rise to this same challenge?

Kate Spade JAYNA sunglasses

2014-03-28T16:37:00.001-07:00

After what seems like an eternal wait, they are here! My very own Kate Spade Jayna sunglasses. Swoon!

Every girl wants an item with her name on it, but when a gal is named Jayna it is not likely to happen. In fact, as far as I know, this is a first! Squee!!!!!!!!!

Aren't they perfect (for ME)? These are the tortoise shell, and they are complete with updated prescription lenses: Unquestionably worth the wait.

They went perfectly with today's cozy nautical theme. I cannot believe that I had to go back to sweaters this week.

Brrrr . . . It has been chilly; I even turned the heater back on.

Sweater:Old Navy clearance ( right now $10), pants: Target ($14?), shoes: Irregular Choice (Poshmark $20), Jewelry: all thrifted

And, to make things better. These gals come in three more colors, although Katespade.com only shows the tortoise and black. My optometrist can get them in strawberry fad and ivory too. Strawberry will be a must.

So, that's today's phenomenal news. Although a moment like this from Monster tried to put a damper on the day. Poor guy and his horrifying bloody noses.

Until next time. Toodles and blessings!

Back to school again!!!!!

2014-02-22T22:27:00.001-08:00

This may seem late in the year, but my teaching semester just started this week! Yes, I know. It is mid-February.

Riverside City College-quadrangle bld

(My employer)

What I wear to work is important to me. It is not only an extension of who I am creatively and personally, just as any other day, but it aides in differentiating me from the students.

As a college professor, who is only 31, this is vital. Some students are near my age. Others are far older. Thus, I must make it clear that I am a professional. That I take my job seriously, even if at times I am snarky, quirky, and sardonic.

Under tank:Old navy, blouse: Nordstrom Rack $5, Knit polka dot skirt: Ann Taylor LOFT $5, Harajuku Mini headband: Target $1.80

So, this week I wore a funner new outfit (there's always a need for back to school clothes) and a classic professors staple, which is a lovely Anne Klein two piece women's suit (dress & jacket).

Anne Klein Suit: Nordstrom Rack $80, Vintage Brooch: Grandma Pat

Although I wore the suit on the second day, the first outfit is quite professional and put together in it's own right. Although, it showed more personality.

Sorry no shots of shoes this week. Back to school means I am a busy bee.

The college is celebrating 100 years this year, and as I was browsing the link on the home page I found this cute tid-bit about initiation fashion requirements in the 50s. I just had to share.

Yeah, it's a screen shot.

My favorite part is that women either need to have their hair in pin curls or umcombed. So cute!

For today, that's all. However, I have some great vintage finds to share this week. Plus, we took family photos over the weekend. As soon as I get some copies I will share.

Family Bonding

2014-02-09T23:03:00.001-08:00

YNothing says I love you more than spending quality time together. Today, I felt like a little kid squeezing into the back of my parents Jeep Cherokee for a road trip or for a long drive to a distant ice rink for yet another of my brother's hockey games.

However, I was instead squeezed tightly between a car seat and a booster that were loaded with my two handsome boys. This made for a road trip free of fighting and fussing, poking and whining. In that respect, it was nothing like the car rides of my youth (even if in both cases I was trapped between two boys).

After church, which we were later to than we have ever been, we headed to grandma's and loaded up in her CRV for a jaunt into LA to see Tia Magda's newly renovated home. It was fun. The Cuban cowboy stayed home after a long night of work that brought him home at 4 AM.

Cardigan: Target clearance, tank: old navy, headband: actually a necklace from Nordstrom, Necklace: LondonReid with an added starfish I've had since junior high.

We had a little lunch, some dessert, and some fun.

This is what it looks like when two engineers decide to make a giant paper airplane: equations and rulers at the helm.

Yeah it flew. . . right into the neighbors backyard. Silly BIL is a man child; that's why he's great though.

It was another splendidly blessed Sunday. Praise God. May his blessings pour forth in your life this week.

Oh yes! Once last thing. I started a tiny V Day project. Here's a sneak peek.

Okay. Bye bye for real. Loves!!!!!

{Frugal Friday} Flip Flop Fashion Tip

2014-02-07T17:27:00.001-08:00

Toward the end of last summer I saw some really cute jelly flip flops at Target. They were Circo brand, which is a children's brand, so I knew they just wouldn't fit. However, I kept looking at them because they were so cute.

It struck me that the XL (size 4/5) looked awfully large. Checking to make sure no laughing soul was nearby to watch a grown woman try on children's shoes, I saddled up and strapped on: THEY FIT!!!!!

Yes! These little gals fit on my big dogs. I typically wear a size 8.5 (wide would be preferable). I picked up two pair at the low cost of $2.89.

Then, this Monday, I saw these ones.

Same price. Same size. Same fit. I tell you now, "go get some little girl shoes!!!!!"

Warning: the arches are not great, so these are not for long days at Disneyland. They're better suited for a trip to the water park where they will come on and off often, or you can slide them on to garden.

I hope you have some great frugal finds this week.

{What I Wore Wednesday} last Weeks Looks til today

2014-02-05T14:06:00.001-08:00

Since My outfits were incongruous to the topic of Sunday night's post, I thought that I would save them all for one big shebang today. Extra fun!

Monday Last- dress:mall store $1, undershirt: Target, belt: Coach (Poshmark), Necklace: Vintage inherited, bracelet: Target clearance

Tuesday Last- dress: Hot Topic, cardigan: Calvin Klein (Ross $12)

The following is my weekend attire from that family focused weekend that I mentioned Sunday evening. I think that the joy my family brings me is apparent in the photos.

Saturday- blouse: vintage(my mom's), jeans: Target $16, shoes: China Town San Francisco $10, and earrings: Wet Seal $2

Sunday- cardigan : Alannah Hill (gift), skirt: St John by Marie Gray (thrifted $3), Shoes: Kate Spade, Dove bobby pins: Juicy Couture

Tuesday- under tank: old navy, Cardigan: Target ($11), jeans: Juicy couture ( Black Friday sale $26), booties: Target ($8), headband: Target Harajuku Mini ($1.50), and pins: Hepcat, hot air balloon, and propaganda (Shows and ETSY).

Wednesday- men's shirt:Hot Topic, skirt:Kirna Zabete for Target, lace socks: Alannah Hill, shoes, Daisy Fuentes: thrifted ($4). Hair flower: Darling Daughter

So many lovely outfits, not enough days.

EYE love you

2014-02-02T21:48:00.001-08:00

"I love you in the morning and in the afternoon. I love you in the evening, underneath the moon."

Order: TL-Cuban Cowboy, TR-Roly Poly, BL-me, and BR-Monster

Such a great childhood song: one I love to sing ( hand motions and all) to my own little joys. I sing to them, hug them, squeeze them, snuggle them tightly hundreds of times a day. I look them right in their eyes and say, "I love you!"

To which they often reply, "I know."

This is something they learned from the Han Solo and Princess Leia ring tone I have for thd Cuban Cowboy. Moreover, it is actually what the Cuban Cowboy told me the first time that I said "I LOVE YOU" to him: so sauve. He didn't say it back to me for about two more months; he has always been more cautious than me.

How can I not love my little boys and my Sexy Husbandman? They are smart, witty, playful, silly, strikingly handsome (all three), and, most importantly, God given blessings who I am obligated to cherish.

All of these reasons are why I adore weekends like the one we just had. We simply spent time together: eating meals, playing games, going to church, and watching films. It is the joy of The Lord to have a family with whom I can do life in such abundance.

Sunday Sermons

2014-01-26T15:57:00.000-08:00

I love God! I mean I truly love God! He is the guiding force of my life, my protector, my hope. Although this may not always be apparent in every aspect of my life, especially when I break down and freak out at my husband or kiddos in that oh so human way, it is what I want the world to know.

Dress: vintage/thrifted ($7), shoes: Bakers (free/gift from mom), belt: Target, gloves:vintage (From yesterday's post), necklace: vintage, bracelet:Christmas gift from Cuban Cowboy, Jacket: Via Spiga (gift), clutch: Coach (I hear it's the Pantone color of 2014). PS: Don't hate on my MJ one glove. I had to take the pic, and I couldn't wear both.

One small, and seemingly frivolous, way that I demonstrate this love for God is dressing up for my weekly date with Him. Yep! I have an extra special date with him each Sunday. Just like the Cuban Cowboy, I hang out with God everyday, but Sundays are a bit extra special.

For this week, I also included a special piece of Jewelery as the foundation of my ensemble. It is a super cool, vintage cross that I inherited from my Grandma Blanche. What makes this necklace so cool is that there is a teeny, tiny magnifying glass at its center. When one looks inside she sees a scroll with the Lord's Prayer. Super cool! However, I rarely wear it because it is gold, and I am not; nor have I ever been; a fan of gold.

It is perfect with this vintage dress though.

Making this Sunday extra special was another phenomenal sermon. This week talked about keeping ourselves focused on God so as to not drift away. I love the nautical theme, and it reminded me of the Plumb song Drifting.

If you are not familiar with Plumb, I promise you will love her lyrics (even if you aren't Christian). She sings about life, and she is truly authentic.

To wrap up the days thoughts: is God your anchor? Is he the shoreline you are aiming for? I pray, in earnest, that he blesses you this week.

Quality Time With my Boys

2014-01-25T18:39:00.001-08:00

Friday I had the joyous pleasure of a date with The Cuban Cowboy (that stud). We finally saw The Desolation of Smaug. Although it is disappointing that Jackson shifted the plot line so dramatically, it is a good film.

Date Night Shoes-Nine West (thrifted this week for $2.50)

Saturday we had some business to attend to with our truck (The Green Machine). We have been battling with it's issues since the fall, but there may be a light in sight.

Since we were out and about, we first stopped by my parents. The boys hung out with my brother: playing with RC cars, fixing dirt bikes, and playing in the dirt.

Too much craziness for this chic chick.

Blouse-Juicy Couture, skirt-Target, bag -Kate Spade

Saturday shoes-Cole Haan Strappy 40s style

After, we ran by the in-laws to wash up for dinner. Then we went to Cheesecske Factory: nom nom nom. The boys were great. The food was Delish, with plenty to spare for Sunday lunch.

Oh, yes, and I almost forgot. While at my parents house, my mom unloaded a hoard of my old school work. A family history of our Minnesotan/ Finnish ancestry. And, most importantly, some vintage goodies that belonged to get and my grandma Kumpula.

It was a wonderful past two days. Praise be to God, oh and the babysitters he places in our lives!

Welcoming In a New Year

2014-01-25T00:40:00.001-08:00

We are here to welcome in a new year and a new way of Rockin'

With the new year, I would like to make a shift in this oh so neglected blog. The first aspect of this shift is to actually write (fingers crossed). The second aspect is to focus more on style.

Bible study outfit (Thursday) scarf-thrifted, shirt-Kate Spade, skirt-Target, necklace-Express, heels-Franco Sarto

This shift toward style is an aim at achieving the first goal. I believe that it is simpler to move through the posts if I have a backbone that drives them, much like the spine of a book holds together such varying details that combine to tell the entire story.

Awesome thrifted books from this week.

I have always adored fashion; and it has always been a facet of my blog; but instead of crafting being the center and style periphery, I am going to switch the roles.

Wednesday Wear (TKD/AWANA)- cardigan-Target, blouse-thrifted, jeans-gift/Ross, tights-Target, necklace-Nordstrom

Since we wear clothing everyday, it is central to our lifestyles. It is the means by which, or rather in which (literally), our lives progress from one moment to the next. It's what we wear to the market, church, Tae kwon do, etc.

I joined a co-op this week. This is my first haul. Roly Poly ate the apple before we were out; the door of the community center.

This doesn't mean that other areas of my life will not appear. Of course they will; they are the story. The clothes are merely the thread. I hope this changes motivates me. May God bless our lives as we live virtual life together.

Monster did so well his first week back to school, with a new teacher, that he received this awesome shuttle as a reward.

May you have a Rockin' weekend!!!!!

First Fall Rain {What I Wore Wednesday}

2013-10-09T14:09:00.001-07:00

IWoo hoo! I am on a role, two posts in a row. So today is a cold and rainy and rainy day here in the California High Desert. A day that warrants a trip to Panera for this yummy lunch.

Also, today is a blessing to me because I made a new friend, Joshua. He is a soul that God has led me to pray for. I actually met him yesterday when I drove out of the McDonalds parking lot and saw this man struggling to walk because his walker was broken (missing an entire side).

Immediately God called me to him. Ten years ago I was injured and needed a walker; that walker has sat in my garage on the off chance I might need it again. Well, who cares about off chances? Not me! That man needed a walked NOW! So I pulled up yo him and asked if I could come back in the morning and bring him a walker. He said that would be wonderful; his had broken the day before.

So this morning, I went our of my way to bring Joshua a walker and several other items out of our blessed abundance. He was glad, maybe even joyous. I have decided that I would love to continue to bless Joshua weekly by providing him with coffee Thursday mornings throughout the cold season. Please pray for me.

Okay, now to the frivolous part of the post: what I wore today.

It's a bit different, but that is do me. I have on blue suede heels from Payless, free people knee socks, a cotton dress and cardigan from Target, and a $5 thrifted leather jacket. I topped it with a BP nordstrom scarf.

I am actually in love with fall layers. I hope you are bundled up too.