Sea Glass and Ribbons

I'M MOVING TO A NEW BLOG {a river of joy}

2013-08-05T08:00:00.000-05:00

This blog has been way more than I ever thought it be. It means so much to meet to have supportive readers, to have met such wonderful people and to have a place I can come to share.

I'm starting a new chapter of my life and it feels right to start a new blog as well.

It's going to be different.

Still about me, but no more DIYs or fashion. Just Faith and my journey.

I'm leaving for the Dominican Republic on August 27th where I'll spend the next eight months studying the Word and Spanish along with serving the people of the DR -what I love most. I'm going to write about my experiences on my new blog, A River of Joy.
I also hope to keep writing on Blogs by Christian Women, so visit there too!

I'll need a few weeks to pack and prepare myself to leave so I may not be posting often on my new blog, but stay tuned and follow along.

It's hard to say goodbye to this blog. I've put so much into this blog and have learned a lot about the blogger world.

I thank you for reading my blog and hope you'll follow along on my next journey.

Please feel free to read my archives!

As always, contact me at jessinia.ruff@gmail.com to talk about anything!

Blessings to you,

xo Jessinia

This One Life and the Time it Takes

2013-08-01T08:00:00.000-05:00

"I speak it to God: I don't really need more time; I just want enough time. Time to breathe deep and time to see real and time to laugh long, time to give You glory and rest deep and sing joy and just enough time in a day not to feel hounded, pressed, driven, or wild to get it all done--yesterday ... In the beep and blink of the twenty-first century, with its "live in the moment" buzz phrase that none of the whirl-weary seem to know how to do, who actually knows how to take time and live with soul and body and God all in sync? To have the time to grab the jacket off the hook and time to go out to all air and sky and green and time to wonder at all of them in all this light, this time refracting in prism. I just want to do my one life well." - Ann Voskamp in One Thousand Gifts

I just want time to do my one life well.

We're given this one life here on earth and a promise for the everlasting life in heaven.

Doing it well takes time, right?

Time to get a long list of to-dos done.
Time to 'please' our God by making ourselves read our Bibles.
Time to let worries and what-ifs slip into our thoughts.

What if we forgot about time and just started living?
What if we weren't bound by the time it takes to live our best life?
What if we sat at the feet of Jesus like Mary did for the time we have?

When Jesus says, "Martha, Martha, you are worried and distracted by many things; there is need of only one thing." (Luke 10: 41-42 NRSV). Will you listen?
When Jesus says, "Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothes? Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them.Are you not much more valuable than they? Can any one of you by worrying add a single hour to your life?" (Matthew 6:25-27 NIV). Do you not hear him?
When Jesus says, "Don't worry, I will. Today you will join me in paradise.” (Luke 23:43 The Message). Do you believe?

Do you see a theme? Jesus tells us not to worry. Not to worry about the little things that take up our time. This one life we have here on Earth should be used to glorify God.

We shouldn't be caught up in daily tasks and the business of life like Martha was.
We shouldn't fret over things we don't have and trust God will provide.
We should worry about getting to heaven as long as we know Jesus.

So what do you say?
Should we lay aside time and focus on glorifying God in this one life?

Encouraging Word {The Roundup}

2013-07-29T13:20:00.003-05:00

As my date to leave is approaching fast, this will be my last Encouraging Word post. I've loved writing and creating these posts. God has used these verses in my life when I least expected Him to.
Here are a few (too many) of my favorites. To see each post, click on the 'Word' tab on the left sidebar :)

Study it.

(feel free to print out any of these pictures for personal use only as a reminder of God's promises)

A New Do {Shoulder-Length}

2013-07-24T08:00:00.000-05:00

I had been growing out my hair for 5 years and it was finally at my goal length. After trying ombre and bangs, I got tired of it pretty quickly and decided to chop off 10 inches! Call me crazy. But no woman is ever content with her hair.

It's also out of practicality since I will be in a hot climate for a year, short hairs just easier to manage.

I am donating my hair to Pantene Beautiful Lengths. Click here if you want to donate as well.

Here's my before picture.

Yikes! My ends were so bad...

Here are my inspiration pictures:

via @juliahengel instagram

Can blogger Julia get any cuter?

via

And....

My sister captured these great pics right after my haircut.

I taught her well ;)

Twae at Chops Hair, Inc. has cut my hair for years. She's awesome.

My advice: if you want to try a new do, do it! Hair grows back and pictures can be deleted ;)

Encouraging Word {Hebrews}

2013-07-22T14:44:00.000-05:00

The flame of the setting sun reminding me of God's engulfing love.

Like a spark that starts inside of us.

We realize His love.

It grows.

Catches.

The Wind blows.

Fire spreads.

On others.

It burns us with desire.

To love.

To serve.

To fight.

The Evil one tries to put out it out.

No one can dump enough water on this fire.

For our God is a consuming fire.

(Hebrews 12:29 KJV)

Rich Culture, Long History {Rome, Italy}

2013-07-20T08:00:00.000-05:00

Rome was the first place I visited on my trip to Italy and Greece. I was instantly captivated by the culture of the bustling city.

Sidewalk cafes amongst ruins.
Great food alongside old cobblestone streets.
Beautiful people walking by the immense stone buildings.
Old churches still in use ringing their bells on the hour.
Staying up late taking time to socialize.

My snapshots:

To think this Roman forum was filled with merchants and worshippers many years ago is amazing.

The Trevi Fountain was gorgeous. I also loved that there were old drinking fountains all around the city. Just fill up your bottle with spring water right on the street!

The colosseum was impressive! I would have loved to see it back when it was all in marble and full of people!

The churches were always so impressive.

God's light.

God's presence.

God's guidance.

On the streets of Florence {Jumpsuit Style}

2013-07-18T08:00:00.000-05:00

It's been awhile since I've done a style post, but this is also a travel post :)

I dared myself to try on a jumpsuit at Forever 21 while shopping for the trip and ended up surprised at this find!

Here's me and my jumpsuit on the streets of Florence, Italy:

Necklace from Caroline G.

Headscarf and belt from Target

My lovely Sseko sandals on the rooftop (shhh!).

Sailboats and Sunsets {Santorini, Greece}

2013-07-16T13:02:00.000-05:00

Thought I'd show a little of one of my favorite stops on my trip to Italy and Greece. I had a wonderful time!
I want to show you all pictures from my trip but not in the traditional "this is what I did, at this time, in this place". So I'll be sharing photo diaries and snapshots in each place :)

These pictures are from Santorini, Greece. I stayed in Fira and visited Oia as well.

If you follow me on instagram, you know I'm a sucker for sunsets. You may not know, I also love sailboats. I've only sailed Hobie Cats (small one-sail sailboats) but have been on larger ones too. I'd love to learn how to really sail well someday :)

Sunsets, sailboats and other pretty things:

*all photos are by Jessinia Ruff. Please give credit and link back here if used.*

Encouraging Word Take Over {Ephesians}

2013-07-15T08:00:00.000-05:00

As I'm still recovering from jet lag, I have one last Encouraging Word guest post. I hope you've enjoyed hearing from other ladies on the blog! Check back for more trip pictures soon :)
This is my friend Linda from Trendy Teal. Read along:

Hello ladies, today I want to share with you a verse that’s been causing me to think twice before I talk. It’s found in Ephesians 4:29:

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Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen. -Ephesians 4:29

Now, I believe that as young Christian women, we try to refrain from uttering foul language on a common basis (at least, I hope so), but there is something else we struggle with - how often do you hear girls cutting themselves down?
It happens all too often. Whenever I give someone a compliment, more often than not, they’ll brush it off and claim the opposite.
“Your hair looks so pretty today!”
“Oh, this? Thanks, but it’s actually really dried out at the ends and frizzy. I’m thinking of getting it trimmed.”
Well, there went that compliment. Cue awkward moment. If you think about what you’re saying though, you’d realize just how derogatory and unhelpful that negative comment was. It affects others around you as well. When I hear a girl say something bad about herself, and I think she’s absolutely lovely, I’ll start analyzing myself and wondering what might be wrong with myappearance.

Sisters, this sort of talk is not edifying! We are to be building each other up, and that includes yourself. There is no need to tear yourself down in an effort to appear humble.

Much love,

Linda

Natural Sunscreen {Guest Post by Michelle}

2013-07-13T08:00:00.000-05:00

I love sunshine, can't get enough of it. But, I can never stress enough how important to me it is to protect my skin from the sun. Michelle contacted me a few weeks ago about alternatives to commercial sunscreen, and I was intrigued. She works at Skana Spa, in Upstate NY. I haven't tried her recipe yet, but I'm excited to use this all-natural sunscreen this summer. Take it away Michelle:

Sunscreen is a great way to protect your skin from harmful UV rays; unfortunately there are many concerns about the various chemicals found in commercial products. Would you want to put something on your skin that has been shown to cause allergic reactions and that disrupts your hormones? If you use a commercial sunscreen, then there is an 80 percent chance that you are doing just that. According to EWG.org the chemical oxybenzone (which causes those side effects) is found in a majority of commercial sunscreens.

So What Can You Do?

Don't give up on sunscreen quite yet, there are many natural ingredients that you can use to make your own healthy version. Organicauthority.com lists the following oils as natural sunscreens:

Raspberry Seed Oil

Carrot Seed Oil

Wheat Germ Oil

Soybean Oil

(photo source)

The great thing about using these oils is that they are all natural and side-effect free. You can be creative with these oils and add various essences and essential oils until you get a sunscreen that smells great and protects your skin. You have a lot of choices when making your own sunscreen; you are never stuck with one oil because you are free to tinker with it at will.

Don't know where to start? Try this easy recipe inspired by Skana Spa of New York resort, Turning Stone:

1oz Red Raspberry Seed Oil

1oz Coconut Oil

1oz Beeswax

Glass Bowl Or Cup

Pot For Boiling Water

Water

Directions:

You simply take these ingredients and melt them in your glass bowl or cup. Be careful, you don't want to heat them too much, so you should boil your water in your pan then put the cup or bowl in there. This is called the double boiler method and prevents your materials from burning.

Let your mixture cool, then throw it into the fridge. That's it that is all you need to do to make a healthy and affordable sunscreen. Feel free to mess around with the essential oils that you use. Personally, I like to throw in some lavender or mint to give my sunscreen a pleasant scent.

Making your own natural sunscreen is a great way to protect your skin from harmful rays without the use of chemicals and artificial ingredients. These natural sunscreens are also great ways to naturally moisturize your skin without using lotions. Some oils naturally absorb UV rays; therefore they are a perfect way to offer you skin protection without any side effects. Give them a try; I'm sure you'll be impressed.

A choice {Choose Jesus}

2013-07-10T08:00:00.001-05:00

My Dad told me this story the other day:

A Grandfather from the Cherokee Nation was talking with his grandson.

“A fight is going on inside me,” he said to the boy. “It is a terrible fight and it is between two wolves.”

“One wolf is evil and ugly: He is anger, envy, war, greed, self-pity, sorrow, regret, guilt, resentment, inferiority, lies, false pride, superiority, selfishness and arrogance.”

“The other wolf is beautiful and good: He is friendly, joyful, peace, love, hope, serenity, humility, kindness, benevolence, justice, fairness, empathy, generosity, true, compassion, gratitude, and deep VISION.”

“This same fight is going on inside you, and inside every other human as well.”

The grandson paused in deep reflection because of what his grandfather had just said. Then he finally asked: “Grandfather, which wolf will win?”

The elder Cherokee replied, “The wolf that you feed.”

We are constantly battling the evil 'wolf', the devil. There is this battle between the lies we believe and the Truth of the Lord.

God did this so that, by two unchangeable things in which it is impossible for God to lie, we who have fled to take hold of the hope set before us may be greatly encouraged. We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure. Hebrews 6:18-19

God never lies. Never.

He gives us hope.

Anchors our soul.

Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. - Ephesians 6:10-13

Let us stand firm in our faith against the lies of the devil. We will then be blessed with the Good wolf's love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control (Galatians 5:22-23).

The fight will never be easy, but we have God on our side.

Be strong in the Lord and never give up hope. (Sidewalk Prophets lyrics : "The Words I Would Say")

via

Encouraging Word Take Over {Psalm 91}

2013-07-08T08:00:00.000-05:00

While I'm on vacation I've asked some of my favorite bloggers to take over the Encouraging Word Mondays. Gina is a sweet girl that I've loved getting to know better. Hope you love her writing as well!

Hello Sea Glass and Ribbons readers! Thank you so much, Jessinia, for letting me guest post on your blog! Let me first introduce myself a little to you guys. I'm Gina and I blog about college, faith and design over at Gina Alyse. I study communications and Spanish at a school in North Carolina, and I love frozen yogurt, running and birds. I am so excited to share an encouraging word to you all today. I came across this verse last spring semester of my sophomore year in college. It comes from the wonderful book of Psalms:

"He will cover you with his feathers, and under his wings you will find refuge; his faithfulness will be your shield and rampart." -Psalm 91: 4

I love how this verse is full of God's love for us and His ways of providing for us. Ultimately, He provides and He gives us a home.

Feeling at home was very important for me in choosing a college and then in making friends at school, especially since I chose to go to an out-of-state school. I think we can lean on this verse through times of travel or times of transition. It teaches us what home is really like. Because without Jesus, without God's word and God's love and without pursuit towards His purpose, how can I feel like I'm home?
I learned that we are at home through Jesus. And nothing on this world can compare to that feeling of being at home, being accepted and purely loved. The world is not our home. He will cover us with His feathers. Under His wings, we can reach new heights, as He is faithful to us and knows us from the inside out. Have you heard this verse before? How is the Lord your refuge? How do you find home in Christ Jesus? I hope you all have wonderful weeks and I thank you again for welcoming me on Sea Glass and Ribbons!

xo, gina

Running {A love story}

2013-07-05T08:00:00.000-05:00

I used to hate running. Like HATE it. I don't hate many activities, but I really hated running. Long distance was especially difficult. I played soccer when I was young and was the goalie so I didn't have to run. I played tennis for 8 years which consisted of short sprints but no long distance running. I had tendonitis in my knees for 3 years and shin splints during lacrosse season. It was painful and annoying to run.

Then, I needed some activity to get into shape. For 4 years I played tennis year round, conditioning and strength training in the winter, and played lacrosse in the spring. This past winter and this spring I had no sports. I went into "winter hibernation". If you live in a warm climate, you don't understand what lack of Vitamin D and cold weather does to your couch-laying over gym-going.

So after a million excuses, I started running. I hit the treadmill (running outside is way better). I went any day warmer than 50 degrees and put on my running shoes. My motivation: a fun 5K run with my friends.

After some grumbling, I found out I loved running. I love the way it clears my head. I love how I can think about nothing. I love how my mood changes for the better. I love how I can decide when I want to run. I'm in love with running. I'm also in love with couch-laying but there's always going to be both in my life :)

So I completed my first 5k at the Color Run and it was a blast.

Pre-run.

So many people.

Running's definitely fun.

Maybe a 10K is next?
Also, my favorite running partner is my neighbor's dog. He pulls me along.
And I don't go running every day, but admire those who do!

Note*This post was written under heavy influence of endorphins. My bias may have been swayed ;)

Encouraging Word Take Over {Isaiah}

2013-07-01T08:00:00.000-05:00

While I'm traveling, I've asked a few wonderful bloggers to take over the Encouraging Word posts. Welcome Caroline!

Hi guys! My name is Caroline and I blog over at the Love Caroline Blog. I blog about my style, great recipes and DIYs that I'm trying and about my life. I love God and try to serve him in all I do and am so excited to take over the encouraging words post today for Jessinia and share a verse that has impacted my life.

via

So this is what the Sovereign LORD says: "See, I lay a stone in Zion, a tested stone, a precious cornerstone for a sure foundation; the one who relies on it will never be stricken with panic.

Isaiah 28:16

One thing that never changes in the world is the fear and struggles that we as humans face. Over the past few month the Boston Marathon bombing, riots in Turkey, and murders all over the globe show just a portion of what we as human beings face in the world. We go through hurt, loss of loved ones and pain, but in all the worlds suffering, God claims in Isaiah 28.16 that if we trust in him, he will be our cornerstone. God knew we were going to face suffering on earth and he promises in his word that he will always be there. Don't forget that he is your cornerstone, your sure foundation no matter what you face.

via

Hillsong wrote a song that perfectly shares that God is our cornerstone, our rock and protector. So, even though we live in a world full of fear, hurt and loss, God is always with us and we only need to call on him and he will help us and remind us he's our cornerstone.

Thanks so much for having me Jessinia!

I would love for you to come visit my blog! I love making new friends and following new bloggers.

~Love Caroline Blog~Twitter~Pinterest~Instagram~Bloglovin~Facebook~

Leaving on a Jet Plane

2013-06-28T08:00:00.000-05:00

Don't know when I'll be back again... John Denver anyone?

source

But I really do know when I'll be back. (does my humor ever transfer over the internet??)
I'm gone June 28th- July 14th.

Rome to Florence to Lake Como to Milan to Athens to Santorini to Crete.
It's a packed trip, but I'm so excited! It's always been a dream of mine to travel to Europe. I love any travel really, but this will be great.

I hope to have stories along the way, but I'll be updating Instagram (@jessinia_ann) regularly. So follow along!
I have some awesome ladies guest posting while I'm gone and have some posts written by me scheduled too. .. Stay tuned!

Pray for safe travels :)

And check out my last post on how I packed.

source

Standard of Grace {Head to Trendy Teal}

2013-06-27T08:00:00.000-05:00

Today I'm guest posting on Trendy Teal. Linda and I met through the hello box back in April and have been friends ever since. It's amazing how we've connected! She's awesome so go check out the post and her blog. Here's a little sneak peak...

source

Maybe you've seen this around Pinterest. It's a wonderful quote and a great reminder for myself. But I want to take this saying and change it around a bit...

Go read the rest on Linda's blog over here.

What to Pack {Italy and Greece}

2013-06-26T08:00:00.000-05:00

This was a big issue. Packing for 17 days in a backpack. Every girl's nightmare!
Here's how I did it:

I invested in this backpacking backpack from REI when they had a sale a month ago. I think I'll get good use out of it on short trips this summer and next year.
I'll be bringing everything in this bag for this trip...
I do like that it's spacious, has side pockets for shoes, and a front pocket for my valuables.

[via]

Since we'll be going into churches, I need to make sure that I have long enough skirts, leggings to go underneath short skirts, and something to cover my shoulders. Other than that the requirements are stylish because it's Europe!, comfortable because of all the walking, and versatile because I don't have much room.

So I ended up with:

2 nice t-shirts
4 nice tank tops
2 long sleeve (can be rolled up) light blouses
2 sweaters (one short and one long)
1 jumpsuit (really excited to wear this one!!)
1 maxi skirt
1 knee-length skirt
3 dresses (2 nice, 1 sundress)
1 tan capri
1 white pant
1 nice pair of shorts
1 pair of leggings
2 swimsuits
1 swimsuit coverup dress
1 raincoat
2 scarves
3 sandals (including my beloved Ssekos)
1 Sanuk shoes (like flats)
1 keen sandal (walking shoe)
1 pair of PJs
7 pairs of underwear, 2 bras
1 Camisole

Whew! Writing this down actually helped me to remember things. So make a list!

Here's a few things I've purchases that'll go in my backpack (or what I'd want to go in my backpack):

Dresses: (left to right) here, here, and here.

Unfortunately, I don't own any of these dresses. But I loved shopping around Anthropology.com for these gems. I'll be bringing one blue high-low dress very similar to that first one above. Along with a black shift dress I thrifted (originally H&M) and a floral a-line dress from Macy's (a few years ago). I was going to throw in a knit maxi dress as well, but decided against it.

Bottoms:

The black maxi pictured is very similar to the one I'll be bringing along except I DIYed mine.

The blue skirt is a perfect summer skirt from Target that hits my knee for going into churches.

The white pants are very similar to the ones I'm bringing. I love them because they're so summery and mediterranean-like.

The black jumpsuit was my "I'll just try it on to see if for some reason it looks good" choice in Forever 21. I ended up loving it! I couldn't find the exact one I bought, but it's pretty close.

Those Gap shorts are my favorite purchase of the summer. I have a blue pair that isn't on the website but was in the outlet store. Score! I can easily roll them up or down to my liking.

And khaki capris also from Gap. I got mine a couple years ago and they're more fitted than the ones pictured, but you get the idea.

Tops: white 3/4//orange tank//white tank//blue patterned tank//black tank//navy 3/4//blue blouse

Can you see a trend yet? I really love blues.

I want to bring mostly nice tank tops because the forecast is upper 80s and 90s degrees F. The 3/4 sleeve shirts are mostly for somewhat cooler days or when I want to keep my skin out of direct sunlight.

I'm also bringing short and long sleeved sweaters for layering if necessary.

The biggest tip when packing light:

Make sure every top can be mixed and matched with at least 2 bottoms and visa versa. That way you don't have to wear the same outfit twice. And if you do wear the same outfit twice, who cares! :)

Here's a peak of my bed full of clothes ready to be packed. (Instagram video is growing on me).

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Check back for pictures of me in these clothes in Italy and Greece!!

**all images via F21, Target, Gap, Old Navy, or Anthropology but edited by me**

Encouraging Word {Matthew}

2013-06-24T08:00:00.000-05:00

But seek first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness and ALL these things will be added to you. - Matthew 6:33 (emphasis added).

We hear the work righteousness uttered many times in the Word and in church. What does it really mean?

Righteous (adj.): 1: acting in accord with the law: free from guilt or sin (merriam-webster).

The dictionary definition states righteous as describing is someone following the law and also has freedom. That's interesting to me. Because, we are, as Christians, free from all guilt and sin and then we actively pursue God's law.

Then because we seeked this righteousness in our God, he provides. All things he provides.
That's hard to believe sometimes.

Read the previous verses of Matthew 6:30-32:
If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, will he not much more clothe you—you of little faith? So do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them.

Worry, worry, worry. It consumes us. But we need to remember God will provide. He knows what you need and will provide so we may prosper and bring Him glory.

Edited using the A Beautiful Mess App.

DIY sandwich board sign {grad party}

2013-06-19T08:00:00.000-05:00

This is part of a series of DIYs for my graduation party. See the past DIYs here.

I put this sign on the street corner to point people in the right direction. You could use this for any occasion! Yard sale, wedding, birthday party, or open house.

the supplies

I started by having my dad cut wood we had laying around into 2 pieces 16 by 24 inches. Then I painted them with white paint (you may need a coat of primer as well).

after one coat

I then laid out stencils and taped them down. I painted 2 coats of leftover interior paint (acrylic would work just fine). Then I free handed the arrows.

I did that to the other board as well.

My dad then screwed in a hinge on either side of the boards.

And that's it!

Encouraging Word {First Peter}

2013-06-17T20:14:00.002-05:00

Reflect on this reminder today.

Do not repay evil with evil or insult with insult. On the contrary, repay evil with blessing, because to this you were called so that you may inherit a blessing. (1 Peter 3:9 NIV)

DIY Fabric Banner {Grad Party}

2013-06-16T21:36:00.000-05:00

This is part of a series of DIYs for my graduation party. See the past DIYs here.

I've seen so many of these banners all over Pinterest and wanted to try them out.
Super simple! I made a small, medium and large banner. The large banner took about a half hour.

I used twine from the dollar store and it worked great!
Step 1: Use the twine (or ribbon or string) to measure the length of where you're banner will go. Don't just use a measuring tape because you won't take into account the 'dip' of the banner.

Step 2: Make a template out of paper or cardboard. My triangles were 6.5 by 9 inches. Next use chalk to trace the template onto the fabric. Make sure to alternate directions so you get the most out of your fabric.

Step 3: Cut along the chalk lines with a rotary cutter. I ended up with 30 triangles from 3 quarters of fabric (from Joann's).

Step 4: Lay out the triangles along the twine in the order desired.

Step 5: Fold the triangles over the twine and pin both sides.

Step 6: Put a dab of glue in between the two pins and fold the fabric over. You can skip this step and just use another pin, but I found this kept the triangles in place better.

Step 7: Sew alongside the twine. This was surprisingly the easiest part.

Step 8: Trim off the corners and the stray thread.

And you're finished!

This was the small banner finished! I used push pins to keep them in place. Nails or tape would secure them as well.

This path I also DIYed using brinks we had laying around.

This is the longest banner.

I love how this banner looks over the new fireplace!

DIY Advice Jar {Grad Party}

2013-06-14T08:00:00.000-05:00

This is part of a series of DIYs on decor for my grad party. See the earlier DIY on photo garlands here.

I thought I'd be a fun idea to hear from my guests on what advice they have for me.

I printed out "A note for the grad" and "my two cents for the grad" on this scrapbooking paper. The font I used is Simon Script found here. I had those sitting out by the advice jars.

With twine I tied a note with an explanation on the jar.

I used mason jars and glued this scrapbooking paper stamped with "advice".

The advice jars will be part of the centerpieces.

I got the burlap at Joann's.

I'm so excited for the party!

DIY Photo Garlands {Grad Party}

2013-06-11T08:00:00.001-05:00

I've been at so many grad parties with board after board full of pictures. I wanted something unique and of course Pinterest had many great ideas. Seriously, how can anyone ever stay off Pinterest?

Well this is a pretty simple DIY.
I used these mini clothespins found on Amazon or at Michael's and clipped my photos on twine from the Dollar Tree.
Then, I used push pins to temporarily put them in the walls.

So simple! So cute!

Do I have enough pictures?

And this is where all the cards will go!

Encouraging Word {First John}

2013-06-10T10:20:00.002-05:00

This is how God showed his love among us: He sent his one and only Son into the world that we might live through him.

1 John 4:9

I love this video series called Project:Love.
"Project:love consists of teaching and testimony videos that demystify a missional lifestyle of love (evangelism). At the same time, the project calls it’s audience into a 20 day challenge: partner with God, to sow the good news of Jesus, every day, for 20 days. The project equips and challenges!" (via).

This video talks about our worth in God.

Worth

Jesus died to remove our sin, not to reveal our sin.

It exposes your worth.

You are worth the blood of Jesus.

You are not living for Him.

You are living through Him.

The Basement Reveal

2013-06-07T10:00:00.000-05:00

If you saw yesterday's post, you saw the beginning stages of the renovation. This is a big space and needed lots of different areas to hang out from the wet bar to the bar table to the lounge area to the conversation nook. I've already had a couple parties here and it worked so well!
Here's the reveal:

This table. A steal on Overstock.com.

My grandpa made the laminate countertop and put it on this Ikea base.

I love mason jars!

This sink is my favorite part. And the Believe sign was a find at Michael's.

Faucet found here.

Counter found here.

Base found here.

The couches we already had from HOM furniture.
Blue pillow found here.
Orange pillow found here.

I love this poof from World Market!

We'll probably end up getting a fireplace but the candles add a nice touch for now. My parents did the tiling over the brick themselves.
Candles, stands, and jars from World Market.

I call this a Conversation Nook.

This wooden moose head I painted. It's kind of a joke because my whole family is vegetarian and we'd never have a real animal head on our wall.

I love this chaise and chair from Ikea.

The pillows are from Pier 1 and Amazon and the throw is from Target.

For some custom art, I took two of these bronze wall art pieces and hung them together.

A peak out the new windows to the backyard with our homemade benches and tables. (See this DIY)

Peek across the hallway into our bathroom we redid a couple years ago.

Here's just a little peak inside. Of course decked out in Ikea decor and furniture.

The hallway we also renovated. It's much lighter than before.