Putting Down Roots

An Update on Life :: We're Moving

2013-04-30T12:20:00.000-05:00

^^^My breakfast was looking rather photogenic this morning, so I whipped out my camera. I figure it's good practice :).

^^^And I also wanted to see how my newly refinished table top photographed. I can't wait to show you before and after pictures of the china hutch and table and chairs! I still have a lot of work to do finishing up the table legs and painting all the chairs, so the reveal will have to wait a little longer. If you follow me on Facebook or Instagram, you have already seen some sneak peeks :).

I am currently enjoying a few days off work while the girls I nanny are off on a family vacation. I am sticking close to home as Jeff wasn't able to take off work, and it has been just what I needed to regroup. The last few months have been very dark and challenging, but the Lord is bringing me through! I have learned so much about my God and about myself. I wouldn't trade those months for anything. I will write about it more when I feel I can.

I am a list-maker. To a fault. I made a "vaca to do" list. Seriously, Emily? I am most relaxed when I am productive. I have been sanding and painting and designing {my new blog...I keep running into issues! Blah!}, and cleaning, and packing {keep reading for explanation...}, and chilling a little. I went to a girls' night in, went to the zoo with a friend and her girlies, and had a photo shoot {can't wait to share!}. On my "vaca to do" list, I have written down to "write my God-sized dream post for this week." But, then we found out we are moving {continue reading... :) }, so I thought I really should give you an update on our life.

When we first moved to Oklahoma, we rented an apartment for a about 4 months. I was SO antsy to get out of that tiny thing and into a place we could call our own...where I could paint and DIY and put as many nails in the walls as I wanted. I dragged Jeff along the loan approval process and within a few short weeks we were first time home owners. Right in that time is when I started this here blog :). We were so clueless about finances. We thought we were amazing at them, but just because we were doing better than other couples our age, didn't make us good at finances! I have kind of developed a secret love of economics and finances since then, but don't worry, I won't go into all that. After a year and change in the house, we felt it was the time to sell.

^^^I am so thankful for that experience! Not too many 25-year-olds have that under their belt.

We knew that after our house sold that we would wait to buy again. Renting a house was out of the question, so moving back to a 1 or 2 bedroom apartment looked like our only option. But then, through some friends, we heard about Showtime Properties here in the Tulsa area. After approval, we could stage homes that were on the market for a small monthly "rent." Having the perks of a nice house and yard while paying $400 a month was very attractive. So, that's what we have been doing for the last 8 months! It's not for everyone. It can be stressful to keep the house "show ready" and be willing to leave on short notice when a realtor wants to show it. But, we view it as a job. We don't have children or pets, so it is so perfect for us right now.

We just got notice last week that we are moving in the next few weeks! We don't know where yet, but it will be in the area. I am hoping for a pool ;). And I am so thankful that we are getting movers this time around! I think Jeff was tired of my whining last time {hey...we have some h e a v y furniture, ok?}.

Well, I've got to get going on my "vaca to do" list and hopefully get out and enjoy our 80 degree weather! I hope you are having a wonderful Tuesday!

{connect with Emily here}

cReate | God-Sized Dreams Series

2013-04-22T21:36:00.000-05:00

This week I made an effort to set aside some time to create.

The times that I can look back over the last week and feel accomplished are when I have checked most things off of my "to do" list, written a blog post, gotten out my camera and practiced shooting in manual, and done something creative {usually painting something}. Obviously, my week contains more than those things, but if I can get to those...well, I feel great! I am very task driven - which is a good and bad thing. I feel best when I meet my {high} standard of "productivity." Ahh. Now, that topic will be saved for another day!

This week, Holley encouraged us God-sized dreamers to get out there and create. Nothing more needed to be said! :)

^^^Some of my Facebook and Instagram friends thought that this was an announcement, B U T it is not :). I made this for a friend's baby shower this last weekend. I always enjoy an opportunity to get chalkin'.

^^^I got out my camera at the baby shower and practiced shooting in manual. We couldn't have asked for more perfect weather to celebrate Lauren and little baby Jasper!

^^^Our front door has been bare since Christmas. Some crazy bird seems to think that my wreaths make excellent nests. After several weeks of us {me and the bird} scaring the you-know-what out of each other, I decided that a bare door was acceptable. That is, until I got the itch to make this spring-y wreath.

Yummy potato soup {from scratch!} was made and shared with friends at game night.
The bathrooms were cleaned - which is therapeutic, afterwards.
Headway was made on the million different painting projects I have going on {thank you, hubs for your help!}.
Pictures were edited.
This blog post is written.
Whew.

Holley must have known that I needed this kind of week. ;) I am linking up at HolleyGerth.com.

{you can get caught up on the series HERE}

{connect with Emily here}

The Voice of Truth

2013-04-15T22:05:00.000-05:00

Satan whispers in my ear, reminding me of all the times I've tried and failed.

Satan wields his favorite, well-worn tool of discouragement. He says 'girl, you're worthless.'

'you will never succeed at this'
'who are you to think you could dream this big?'
'giving up will feel good...everyone will understand'
'God doesn't care about your deepest desires...otherwise they would be met'

God says, 'My grace is sufficient for you'

'you. are. loved.'

'this is for My glory.'

'do not fear for your future, for I am with you always.'
'I have a wonderful plan that I have crafted just for you.'
'you are my child. I, the King of Kings, have chosen you as my daughter.'

'I have the perfect measure of strength just for you...for today.'

b u t
I must choose which voice I listen to.
Satan's lies?
o r
the voice of truth?
Psalms 23:1-6, Ephesians 2:8-10, Philippians 1:6, Proverbs 3:5-8, Ephesians 6:10-20, Isaiah 43
I am linking up with Holley Gerth. Please join me in reading the other God-sized dreamers' posts.

{connect with Emily here}

start with the "why"

2013-04-01T23:09:00.000-05:00

In case you're new here, Tuesdays are the day that I write about my God-sized dream {a desire in my heart for more of what God has for me}. You can catch up on the series HERE.

Why am I pursuing this dream of mine?

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Because God has placed a desire in my heart to do and be more.

Because I want to be a stellar wife to my husband.

Because I want to impact more lives for Christ.

Because I know that I am called to be more than lackadaisical Christianity.

Because I want to be the best mother I can be to our future child{ren}.

Because I want to be a wise steward of the talents God has given me.

Because I want to be a wise steward of the financial resources God has given me.

Because I believe that God doesn't measure success by how good I look on the outside, but by my true character.

Because I would rather influence others to pursue sanctification rather than to pursue materialism.

Because I know what I don't want.

Because anything less than my best just. wouldn't. be. right.

The answer{s} to the question "Why?" is the very foundation of my dream. If I am not clear on why I am even out there working my tail off, then it is very hard to stay motivated and on track. I am thankful that this week's God-sized dream assignment was to write out my "why." I needed to revisit it. Maybe you do, too? Don't be embarrassed to write your "why" out. Whether your goals and dreams are big or small, get it down on paper.

I am linking up to www.holleygerth.com. You are welcome to hop on over and check out the other linkups, or join in yourself like my new friend, Nicole, did! ...go check out her brand new blog HERE!

{connect with Emily here}

Do You Think There is a Difference Between 'Joy' and 'Happiness'?

2013-03-18T22:22:00.000-05:00

It's time for the next post in my God-sized dreams series. If you're new, please jump right in, or get caught up here.

{photo found here; graphics added by me}

My assignment for this week was to write about what brings me joy. I got really excited about this topic because I love sharing my obsession with coffee, painting, garage sales, DIY, etc. These things put a smile on my face. But then I got to thinking that maybe the assignment was a little bit more than that.

As Holley Gerth says in her book You're Made for a God-Sized Dream, "[joy is] Not the 'everything is sunshine and roses' kind of happy but the deep satisfaction that comes from knowing you're doing what you're called to do."

I am joyful when...

>>> I see God's hand working in my life and in my friends' and family's lives.

>>> There is harmony in our home.

>>> I stop trying to be all that and a bag of chips and just let God use me. Sometimes it's not as glamorous as I would have hoped, but it's so much more powerful.

>>> I dwell on my blessings rather than on my "want list."

>>> I stop talking and start listening to a friend share her heart.

>>> When I remember to pray for guidance, and then remember to follow.

>>> I stop and remember that, yes, I did my very best and that's all God asks of me.

>>> I remember that I'm living for an audience of one.

>>> I learn something new because I wasn't closed-minded. For once!

>>> I see God rewarding our hard work. Or just the anticipation of it.

>>> I get a note from one of my readers telling me that I am making a difference. Wow.

>>> I take an opportunity to encourage someone else.

>>> I give.

You, too?

I am linking up at HolleyGerth.com.

{connect with Emily here}

Worn

2013-03-11T23:56:00.000-05:00

There is a battle between lies and truth raging. My heart is heavy and worn. I can make light of my feelings or tell myself that my burdens are nothing compared to others'. But that surely doesn't help. My feelings are real and raw and they beg to be acknowledged.
...unworthy ...forgotten ...desperate ...numb
I know what it is like to feel lonely in a crowd. To feel so worthless and empty. I know what it is like to have a ocean of tears dammed by a fake smile.
My feeling are not presented to be fixed nor pitied. You and I could meet over coffee or tea and weep over each others' hurts and pain...for I know you have them too.

I do not know all the answers, but I do know the place where comfort can be found.
Why is pain so blinding and numbing? I have Scripture - hope and truth - right at my fingertips yet sometimes that is the last place I turn to look. Shamefully, I admit that at times it is easier to curl up into a ball and fall deeper into my downward spiral than it is to call out to Christ for help.
It is easier to recall all the broken dreams than it is to make a list of people and things for which I am thankful.
It is easier to blame a missed endeavor on my lack of ability than to trust in God's timing and keep working hard.
It is easier to simply give up than to pick myself back up.
It is easier to convince myself that I am unlovely than to choose to see God's love for me that is woven throughout my life.
This I know: God does not promise easy. He promises that all things will work together for good.
My only hope for joy is found in seeking security in Christ. I need more of Him... ...less of me.
These times in my journey towards my God-sized dream seem so far from dreamy. I wonder at times what I think I'm doing on this path.
God goes to great measures to teach and grow His children. I hate the pain. But even in the midst of this, I can say that I am thankful that I cannot make these droughts go away...for what a weak servant of His I would be otherwise. I am looking forward to meeting the person that He is shaping me into, and I trust that my journey brings Him glory.
I Peter 5:7 || I Corinthians 10:13 || Philippians 4:8 || Galatians 6:9-10

*************************** You’re Made for a God-sized Dream by Holley Gerth has officially released, and you can grab your copy here.
You can catch up on my series here.
I am linking up at holleygerth.com.

{connect with Emily here}

Today's the Day!

2013-02-26T00:00:00.000-06:00

Welcome to my God-sized dream series! You can get caught up here.

Growing up, I recall watching the National Geographic documentary on Mel Fisher and his quest for the Atocha and it's sunken treasure. I remember being enamored by those documentaries and we watched them over and over. Mel Fisher's story is rather remarkable, although I had completely forgotten about it until recently when I heard a talk by Chris Brady on Fisher's story.
Mel was an Indiana-born former chicken farmer. After serving in World War II, he moved to California to set up a little dive shop. He was one of the first to pioneer scuba diving as a sport in the US. While running his shop and giving dive lessons, he became fascinated with exploring sunken ships for treasure. He learned of two Spanish galleons chalk full of millions of dollars of cargo that sank during a hurricane on September 6, 1622, near Key West, Florida. The treasure had been lost for four centuries. He convinced his wife and a group of friends to move to Florida to begin the search for the Atocha.
For two years they found virtually nothing, and then discovered that they were searching in the completely wrong place! Three years in, they found what they believed to be the Atocha's anchor and a few gold bars worth thousands of dollars.
Although they experienced a little victory, they soon ran into opposition. There is so much to the story, but let me just highlight some things quickly.
>> The government caught wind of their small finds, and demanded that Mel pay for agents to be aboard all of his ships to ensure that none of the treasure was pocketed. >> The media heard of Fisher's discoveries and ran a story that the treasure was planted in order for his company to get investors. >> Competitor treasure hunters started streaming in. >> Mel started to run out of money, so he sold his house and moved into an old houseboat. >> All but one of his original team members quits. >> After five years, he found a few more pieces of treasure, and the government confiscated it...the Florida state senator flipped him off as he drove away with Mel's confiscated treasure. >> His company was shut down several times by the government, but he kept going! >> His oldest son was killed in a boating accident. >> One of his teammates runs off with some of the treasure >> Mel develops cancer
If Mel had given up at this point, would his story be worth telling?
Every day he would say "Today's the day!"
After 17 years of relentless searching, on July 20th 1985, one of Fisher's crews hit the mother load. To this day, dive teams are still pulling out treasure from the ocean floor. Fisher was the discoverer of the greatest treasure since the opening of King Tut's tomb.
If I think back on my memories of watching that National Geographic documentary, all I really remember is how cool diving for sunken treasure sounded. When I was hearing Fisher's story retold recently, I was struck by all the details of the struggle that I had forgotten! I am so inspired by this "new" story.
Although I am not on a quest for ancient sunken treasure, I do have goals I am striving for, and dreams that I am working to achieve that - to be honest - I believe to be a lot more honorable than gold and silver. I am not condoning a life spent in reckless pursuit of temporal things, but I do admire persistence and commitment. There is something to be learned from every success story!
Do you ever look at someone who drives that nice car and has that nice house, or that couple who seems to have such a great marriage and well-behaved kids and wonder how they got there? I do! I usually find that after some research {if they are well-known} or a conversation or two with them, that their journey has not always been peachy. It usually fits roughly into this outline: 1) dream, 2) struggle, 3) victory. Sometimes I catch myself thinking "oh it must be nice to have or be this or that." "I wish I was that lucky." {Grant it, some people sport a fabulous exterior and "stuff" because they have developed a "gotta have it now" mentality and are financing their lifestyle. I'm not talking about these people...I am talking about the real success stories.} After I hear someone's journey of blood, sweat, and tears, I come away so encouraged. Because I can dream, and I can fight, so I can have victory, too.
Today's the day!
I am linking up at holleygerth.com!
{connect with Emily here}

Let's Chat About the Weather & Our Big Move

2013-02-21T21:34:00.002-06:00

The weather in Oklahoma is quite consistently inconsistent. I have been enjoying it. A couple weeks ago, Jeff and I dug out our tennis rackets and gear and enjoyed some beautiful, sunny weather. I am horrible at tennis. I plan on getting some practice in this year though, because we have a court a minute drive away from us. It is excellent exercise. I know I was feeling it!

Then, we got some good storms. This dry land needs it! I enjoy the gloominess for a little while, but I'm really a sunshine girl.

Yesterday, we got a wonderful little surprise of snow! I honestly thought we had missed out this year. It was already starting to melt by the time I got home from work, and I was seriously disappointed that I didn't get to practice taking pictures with my DSLR. I'm thankful I could snap a few with my iphone. All of the pictures are courtesy of my iphone via instagram.

Are you curious about our move? :)

Jeff and I are not actually moving {although that is always an imminent possibility in the show home biz}. This time, I'm talking about our blog move from Blogger to Wordpress. Eeeek!

For the past 3ish months, I have been putting my very limited techy knowledge to the test to design a new website {I use the word "design" lightly}. Yes, I am making the ol' switcheroo. By "I" I mean "we." Thankfully, I have been graciously assisted by a much more tech savvy person than I {Thank you, Josh!} who is helping me get everything switched over. Hopefully, we will have it up and running...soon. ;) Once it's all complete, you should be automatically directed to the new site. I am super excited and I couldn't wait to share the news with you. I will keep you updated on my Facebook page!

{connect with Emily here}

Define, Learn, Do | God-Sized Dream Series

2013-02-19T00:00:00.000-06:00

Welcome to the next segment in my God-sized dream series! You can find the previous posts here...the introduction to the series is here.
This last week, our "do what you can" step for my God-sized dream was to stop delaying and start doing right where I am.
This last week, Jeff and I went out to California to visit our mentors. We decided that we were serious about moving forward and we knew that we needed coaching.
I believe that having a mentor or coach is so important, and we are blessed to have a wonderful couple who have offered to mentor us. We were able to grab some quality time with them this last weekend, and it was so good! I feel so blessed and encouraged after spending even just a short weekend with them. And it didn't hurt that we got to tour the beautiful Napa Valley to boot.

{taken with my iphone}
A principle that I have been learning about the past couple years is called "define, learn, do." Society teaches us this....in the opposite order. I was encouraged to choose my degree, go to college, and then my profession would define my lifestyle. There is nothing wrong with that. However, it runs contrary to the success principle of first defining what you want your life to look like, learning from someone who actually has success in that area, and then going out and doing it. I was floored when I understood this principle because it made so much sense, yet, up until that point, I wasn't purposefully implementing it into my life.
I have spent a good deal of time trying to visualize what I want my life to look like in the coming years. Who do I want to be {character/discipline}? What type of friendships do I want to have? What ministry do I want to be involved in? I have also been defining what I want my health, home, and family to look like. I can't always see what I need to change or do in order to achieve those goals, so that is where a mentor comes in.
I am struggling to keep up with all the books that my mentor recommends for me to read, but I am trying my best! :) This last week I read "How to Forgive...When You Don't Feel Like It" by June Hunt. I cannot recommend it enough! I am currently reading: "Trusting God Even When Life Hurts" by Jerry Bridges. So far, so good!
I am linking up at holleygerth.com.

{connect with Emily here}

When Dreaming Isn't So Dreamy | God-Sized Dream Series

2013-02-11T23:58:00.001-06:00

In case your new here, or if you're a little confuzzed about what this "God-size dream" series is all about, here is a synopsis for you:

Every Tuesday, I share with you where I am at in my journey of pursuing my God-sized dream. {Click HERE to get caught up on the series}. Sometimes it's hard to communicate where I'm at with it all because it's so right now, but I do my best to be real with you even when I'm uncertain of where this journey is taking me.

What is a God-sized dream, you ask? It is a desire in my heart for more of what God has for me.
I laid out my dreams in THIS post. What's cool is that I'm not the only one doing this. I am blogging this journey along with 100 other lovely ladies and we link up with Holley Gerth every Tuesday. Maybe you would like to join in? Feel free! But let me warn you, this sounds like a fun little blogging "game" or series, but it's turning out to be a lot more than that for me, and for many of these other women. We are seeing God work and move, grow and stretch us. The more I put into this series, the more I get out of it - and we're only a fraction of the way in!

Last week, I shared one of my greatest fears that I've faced in my pursuit of my God-sized dream: letting go of good to make room for great.

Paring off that, today I want to share with you more of what I feel that I need to decrease in my life in order to make some headway towards my dreams.

Last week, I had such a battle going on in my heart. Maybe some of you picked that up by my very vague post last week. This series is forcing me to be very real and transparent. When I convey that I'm going through a tough season of life, I don't want my words to say "Woe is me...", I want them to say "Wow, God loves me so much to allow me to go through this time of testing so that I can have an awesome testimony for Him." I hope that through anything and everything that I share here, that I convey my belief that even through difficult and "bad" times, that my God is still good. I am blessed and doing far better than I deserve.
My and Jeffrey's main focus right now is building and expanding our business. It is not big enough to support our family yet, so after we get off work, we go to work again. It is so easy to slack off or complain or let little things get in the way of the big picture. Being an entrepreneur takes time. It takes discipline. It takes getting outside my comfort zone and decreasing some of the "extra" things in my life.

I'm way behind on watching my favorite TV show: Downton Abbey. But, you know...that's ok. I'll catch up later.

Jeff and I haven't had a real vacation since our honeymoon. But, you know...that's ok. We have an AWESOME vacation planned for when we meet one of our big goals. It's definitely worth working hard for.

We live in an {ugly} rent house that is on the market so we always have to keep it clean and "show-ready." But, you know what? That's ok. We save a boat-load of money every month.

I love this blog of mine and I want to write more and do more DIY projects. I have a huge vision for this blog...trust me on that one. I'm not letting go of that...I'm simply holding back for a little bit. I don't have the time right now to do all that I want to do. But, you know...I'm learning to be ok with that. I am going to keep posting when I can. I am going to share this story of ours so that one day, when we achieve our dreams, you will see that our hard work paid off. You will know that we aren't just a lucky couple that got handed everything in life. We are hard-working, dreaming, blessed people. I know that I will probably lose some readers during this time when I can't post as much as I would like or when I can't be on top of my social media game {which I love!}.
But you know what?
That. is. ok.

I say all of these things not to make me look good or to make you feel down on yourself if you aren't giving up your little guilty pleasures. Those things aren't necessarily wrong, and you are most likely in a very different stage of life than I am. But, maybe you aren't. Maybe you have "excuse-itis" and you need to get your priorities in order. I don't know where you're at. I'm working to stop the "victim" mentality of blaming my current results {or lack of them} on my circumstances, and I'm starting to take responsibility for my situation and realize that I can change that....even if the only thing I can change is my outlook and attitude.

So, what's stopping you from achieving your goals/dreams?

If you have stuck with me this far, I am so thankful for you! :)
I am linking up at HolleyGerth.com.

{connect with Emily here}

Let It Go | Another Post in the God-Size Dreams Series

2013-02-05T23:14:00.001-06:00

{source unknown}

Every Tuesday {from January to June} I am sharing the steps I am taking to pursue my God-sized dreams.

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I've been fighting, struggling, resisting what I know I need to do. There are some things in my life that need to be put on the back burner. It's a painful decision to set these things aside. Maybe it's a pride thing. I know that I am capable. I know that I can do them well. I know that people would see what I do and encourage me and give me accolades. As a woman full of self-doubt, I crave these things.
I can easily find my fulfillment in what I feel others think of me...instead of in my God and the relationship that I have with Him.

It seems that lately I have had to make a lot of decisions. They are seemingly little, personal things.

Choosing between good and bad...well that's just easy. Choosing between better and best? Not so much.
Sometimes there are so many good things going on, that there is no room for the best things.

I get so torn...it's not like these things in my life are wrong! No, they are very good things. But you see, that's the problem...they are only good.

I've been asked why I would give up things that I enjoy or things that I am good at for a period of time. People don't understand, and they judge. And I fear their judgement. And that is when I realize that I fear people more than I believe that God has a beautiful plan for my life if I will simply follow His lead and let Him write my story...if I will only let it go.

So I will say "no"

"not now"

"not so much"

I am letting go of what I want to do, and letting God mold me.

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I am linking up HERE.

Previous posts in the God-Size Dream Series can be found HERE.

{connect with Emily here}

some bits about me | leibster nominee

2013-01-28T08:00:00.000-06:00

Mary Beth of Annapolis and Company nominated me for a fun little "get-to-know-you" game called Leibster. Now I get to share fun {and potentially embarrassing!} moments and facts about me. Enjoy!

My 11 random facts:

1| I paid my way through college. I finished with zero debt or school loans - thanks to scholarships, prayer, and hard work. I think it helped me grow up faster. {I still haven't graduated...I'm 3 classes short}.
2| I was a voice major in college for two years before switching to Bible. I've kind of lost a passion for pursuing singing as a career or for teaching lessons.
3| I have never had braces. I got my teeth genes from my momma :)
4| When I was in high school, I was given the opportunity to dabble in modeling and I'm on the cover of two books.

I got to work on my "pining farm girl" look. Haha!
5| Jeff and I didn't kiss until our wedding day. I know...old school. I love the looks on people's faces when I tell them that. {you can pick your chin up from off the floor now :) }
6| I've had a thing lately for fashion and beauty blogs. I usually try to boost my beauty regime this time of year because I feel so dry and drab! I just splurged on some new beauty products, and if I love them as much as I think I will, I'll have to share! {Thank you, Amber, for the inspiration!}
7| I have taken hunter's safety and I want to take a conceal and carry class, too! I haven't done much hunting, but I did shoot a buffalo when I was in high school. The picture will remain in hiding...mostly because I was in high school and well...that should be enough reason! Haha! {I'm sorry if I've offended any animal lovers/vegetarians!}
8| I have dyed my hair red, brown, {almost} black, and blonde - all in the same year. I've been happy with my blonde for nearly a whole year...it's a record, folks!
9| My idea of a lovely weekend: having a clean house, projects done, blog post{s} written, shopping, coffee & a chat with a friend, and then relaxing with a good book or movie. It's hard for me to relax when my "to-do" list is undone. I'm a bore.
10| If I am interested in something, I love to do TONS of research on the topic. I am always willing to share my "hard-earned" information with anyone who asks {I've been working on not giving people "advice" if they don't ask though}. I believe in giving and sharing without thought of what I will get in return. I do struggle with giving actual gifts though...I am working on that!
11| I believe in firmly knowing what you believe, but being open minded at the same time. I once heard this little saying by Chris Brady: "you don't know what you don't know, you are forgetting some of what you do know, and some of what you know, isn't so." I want to listen more, talk less, and refrain from unjustly judging others. You too?
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11 questions from Mary Beth:

1| If you could live anywhere, where would it be? by the ocean and by good shopping :)

2./ What’s been your most embarrassing moment to date? I am honestly not trying to copout here, but I can't think of one good story. I've had lots of little embarrassing things happen like...I got hit in the head with a softball because I wasn't paying attention in the outfield; I was/am super naive and I tend to always say the completely wrong thing {I'm sure I provided great opportunities for "that's what she said" jokes}; a little girl came up to me and said that I had nice boobs in front of a bunch of people I barely knew; I was late for class one snowy/icy day my freshman year of college and I hit a patch of ice and bit it...bad. Nothing too mortifying, but it does add up! Haha!

3./ What is your creative outlet? diy-ing, blogging, and recently photography

4./ What did you eat for breakfast this morning? Jeff made me a chocolate banana breakfast smoothie! It was yum!

5./ What makes a good friend? honesty. truthfulness. loyalty. humility.

6./ What has been the most important day of your life? when I accepted Christ as my savior and my wedding day.

7./ Do you prefer to love or prefer to be loved? opening myself up and allowing someone to love me deepens my ability to love in return.

8./ Fear aside, what is the one thing you wish you were brave enough to do? skydiving!

9./ Who inspires you? I am inspired by big thinkers and people who work hard and don't give up on their dreams. I love to see someone admit that they don't know everything and become a good student. A woman who strives after God and encourages me to do the same by her actions..not just her words. A woman who is looks to the Word rather than the world for her guidance, and gets her feeling of worth from God. Danae is my friend and mentor and I see all these things in her. I am blessed to have her in my life. She gets me.

10./ Do you feel most invigorated when you spend time with other people or being by yourself? I certainly need both, but I feel rejuvenated by spending time alone...journaling, reading, creating, blogging, or simply thinking. I need my alone time.

11./ Please finish this sentence…I wish I had known… a little earlier in life that people need more grace from me. My mom taught me this, but it didn't click until recently. When people lash out at me, or lie to me, or betray my trust, it usually has little to do with me, but it has everything to do with them. They are hurting, lonely, and desperate, and I just happened to take the brunt force of it. This doesn't excuse them, but it helps me understand and be able to forgive them. My joy is dependent on what I choose to dwell on.

********************

I am tagging 11 bloggers below & here are the rules:

1| Each blogger should post 11 random facts about themselves.

2| Answer the questions the tagger has set for you, then create 11 new questions for the bloggers you pass the award to.

3| Choose 11 new bloggers (or with less than 200 followers) to pass the award to and link them in your post.

4| Go to their page and tell them about the award.

5| No tag backs.

********************

My Nominees:

{If I tagged you, it's because I think you're cool & we should totally be {better} friends! K?!}

ordy and joon
ella claire
barefoot blonde

********************

Here are my questions for you!

1| Do you like your handwriting? Why or why not?

2| What is the first thing you notice about people?

3| Why do you blog?

4| What is your favorite season of the year and why?

5| What is your dream job?

6| What can a friend do that will make you feel special?

7| When was your last encounter with wildlife?

8| What part of your morning routine do you consider essential?

9| What was the last vacation you went on?

10| What is your guilty pleasure food?

11| Are you a morning or night person?

********************

If you just can't get enough of this stuff, I participated in a similar game a while back...you can read about it HERE.

{connect with Emily here}

The High Dive: Dreamer Style

2013-01-22T00:01:00.000-06:00

{source}

As I stand on the edge of the diving board, the moment of truth stares at me.

What will happen when I hit the water?
Do I look brave and confident?
What will my friends think of me? Will they laugh as I smack the water most ungracefully?
What if I get the wind knocked out of me and can't swim to the surface?
Although my last attempt at the high dive was many, many years ago, I still remember my intense fear. I was so worried about how I looked up there. That is kind of how I feel now with my dreams. I've been on this journey of discovering and pursing my dreams a lot longer than I have let on here. I've been taking the long hike up the steps to the "high dive" for close to two years. I'm nervously ~~walking~~ scooting down the plank to the edge. I'm more afraid of what people will think of me, and I find myself asking questions like...
Should I chicken out and take the walk of shame back to the ladder where it's safe? At least it's safe.
Should I s-l-o-w-l-y sit down and ease off? But my knees are stiff.
What if my arms and legs flail and I look like a complete idiot?
Is this "high dive experience" really worth it? I've heard that belly flops really hurt from this high up.
Does this high-cut swimsuit make my legs look fat?
I have decided that the walk of shame is not going to happen. But, I'm still standing somewhat frantic staring at the water beneath me. This is where I'm at. And it's ok...for now. I've been a bad dreamer this week because I didn't do my homework! Holley challenged us to pick a friend to share our dream with and ask him or her to lift us up in prayer. I am purposing to do better this next week.

Source: sundayinbed.tumblr.com via Christine on Pinterest

If you are just now joining this series, you can catch up by reading: post #1 | post #2.
I am linking up with a bunch of other lovely ladies over at Holley Gerth's place. See you there. {connect with Emily here}

Weekend Wrap-Up | Project Style

2013-01-21T17:11:00.000-06:00

^^^ We started re-doing this dresser last weekend, but I finished it up this weekend.

^^^ It's amazing what a paint job, refreshed hardware, and some legs will do to a dresser!

^^^ The mirror was an antique store find from last weekend. I applied gold leafing and wood stain to give it an "old world" charm.

^^^I finally got around to updating my chalk board :)

^^^These movie choices only seem fitting considering my occupation. I ran out of time and only watched The Nanny Diaries, though.

Did you have a good weekend?

I'll see you back here tomorrow for my next 'God-sized dreams' post!

I'm linking up at:

{connect with Emily here}

Birthday Love

2013-01-18T16:41:00.001-06:00

I mentioned in my post on Tuesday that if my hubby made me a cake for my birthday, then I would take a picture of it.
So, here you are :)

^^^ Yes, he ran out of room... "Happy B- Day, Emily" Haha! It tasted fabulous. I told him that he could make all of my birthday cakes from here on out. He said that it was a deal.

^^^ I very much appreciate all of the wonderful birthday wishes sent my way. I felt the love.

^^^ I am quite spoiled around here lately. Jeff surprised me with a 50mm lens and an extra battery {a must-have!}. The lens was made in the '70's and I am so. very. excited. The old lens's were made incredibly well...so I've read. I have enjoyed playing with it already.
Happy Friday! Have a wonderful weekend!
{connect with Emily here}

Be Specific: Set Smart Goals

2013-01-15T00:00:00.000-06:00

First things first: it's my birthday today :). I have officially hit my mid-twenties. It feels great. I'm hoping to squeeze in a run to Starbucks to get my free birthday drink, and Jeff mentioned something about making me a cake. I will certainly take a picture if that happens. Haha! He is a keeper.
Anyway, on to the real reason we're here today...

In my last post, I shared my dreams. I was very encouraged by your sweet comments. I appreciate every single one of you!
I didn't dish out every last detail of my dream in last week's post, but I hope to reveal more as we go {and as I figure it out!} In this post, I want to lay out a couple of my goals...specific ones. I need to figure out how to get from where I am currently {point A} to where I want to be {point B}.

What's necessary is realizing that goals aren't ultimatums; they are simply directions. We are in charge of them -- they're not in charge of us. - Holley Gerth in chapter 2 of the "Do What You Can Plan"

It is so important to set clear, specific goals. Goals are the stepping stones to the dream. Not only is it important to set a specific goal, I believe it's imperative to set a time frame on accomplishing that goal, and maybe even set up a reward for achieving the goal. That's right, reward yourself! For example, if my dream was to lose 20 pounds, I would first set a date that I wanted to lose it by, and then my first goal might be to simply cut in half the number of times a week I eat fast food or another guilty pleasure. If I achieve my goal that week - whether I lose a pound or not - then my reward could be a cute piece of jewelry or some other small thing in proportion to my goal. This is a concept called "feeding your elephant" talked about in the book "The Ant and the Elephant" by Vince Poscente. The book is a parable and has some fantastic insights on how to keep moving towards the big picture dreams. It is definitely one of my top five books and I plan to read it many times over.

Holley challenged us last week to do one little thing this week to move forward towards our God-sized dream. I did two very little things this last week: 1} I added to my Pinterest dream board, and 2} I read at least 15 minutes a day.
Now, most of my dreams I want to achieve are more long-term things. We are not planning on breaking ground on our dream home in the next 6 months or anything. I know...rather disappointing. I already had people inviting themselves over {I love it!}. One thing I can do now to work towards our dream home is visualizing it and building a dream board. Sounds a little hokey, but if you study successful businessmen/women or athletes, you will find that many of them are dreamers and use this technique. If you took sports at a competitive level, you are probably familiar with visualization. Picturing that perfect layup or goal over and over in your mind is a key part of a professional's practice. You get what you picture.
Along with regularly visualizing and building a dream board, another thing I can start working on right now is growing personally in wisdom and character. I have a whole stack of books that have been recommended to me by my mentor, and I want to get through one book a week. I have not achieved my dreams because I am not the person I need to be yet. I have not grown enough, worked hard enough, or smart enough...yet. I am going to be consistent {ah...there's my One Little Word!} and wait patiently for God to bless in His timing.
For further reading on building and pursuing your dream:
Ant and the Elephant - Vince Poscente Magic Of Thinking Big - David J. Schwartz The Dream Giver - Bruce Wilkinson
Do you have any book suggestions? I would love to hear them!
I am blessed to be a part of the God-sized dreams team, and we are linking up here {you can too!}:

{connect with Emily here}

What I'm Currently Loving

2013-01-11T21:28:00.002-06:00

{click on the numbers below for a link to the image source}
1 & 2 // drink // coffee is certainly my beverage of choice. If I'm going out, a toffee nut breve misto from Starbucks is my choice. If I'm staying in, Newman's special blend k-cup is my #1 favorite {I order them off Amazon}.
3 // snack // a chocolate banana smoothie is my new snack/breakfast. My dad gave me the recipe while we were up in Minnesota for Christmas. The image there is not the exact smoothie that I drink, but I needed a picture :) That recipe looks yummy too, though!
4 // book // my favorite book is typically the book I'm currently reading :) which is: the do what you can plan by Holley Gerth. It's an ebook and it has been fantastic so far for helping me get motivated on my 2013 goals.
5 // makeup // urban decay eye primer. I love it! I don't usually wear eye shadow to work, but this primer gives a little gold shimmer and keeps my eye liner from smearing. It lasts all day! Thank you, Kasey, for telling me about this!
6 // hair product // {no judge-y looks allowed!} lately, my favorite "dry shampoo" has been cornstarch.
7 // font love // I have been a little obsessive about fonts lately. My "paper goods" Pinterest board is devoted to all things font-ish.
8 // wear // I've been living in leggings/skinny jeans, thick socks, boots, scarves, and cardigans.
9 // toe covering // and when I'm not wearing boots, I'm wearing my cozy moccasins from Old Navy {I couldn't find them in their online store}.
10 // write // I have used these pens since high school, and they are still my favorite. {caution :: do not carry them on a plane...they leak.}
11 // phone accessory // I prefer the soft, rubber phone cases. This one is stylish & it protects my phone well.
12 // nail polish // a great winter {light pink} white.
13 // dry hair repair // when needed, I will coat my hair {especially the ends} with Argan Oil, wrap my hair up into a bun, and let it do it's thing overnight. I wash my hair well in the morning. 14 // song // I usually don't get "stuck" on a particular group, but I have really been loving the last two albums that Tenth Avenue North has put out. My current favorite song off their latest album is "worn."

{connect with Emily here}

My God-Sized Dream: The Series Has Begun!

2013-01-08T06:03:00.000-06:00

I am really excited about this God-sized dream series...I am so ready for this. Are you? Have you gotten Holley Gerth's "Do What You Can Plan" ebook? It's $2.99...I bet you can swing it! Whether you choose to participate, or simply follow me over the next few months, I am happy to have you.
A few months ago ~ before I even knew about this opportunity ~ I wrote about some of my dreams in THIS post. I have been trying to figure out how to share more of heart with you here...helping you see that I'm real and quite imperfect, but that I have a dream in my heart. To be honest, it's kind of scary putting myself out there! I'm really nervous about what is going to happen over the next few months. But, I want to see more people striving for their dreams, and maybe seeing my story unfold will help you strive for yours...this is my wish. I am hoping that this little series will help you as much as I am anticipating that it will help me :)

{photo by Mary Beth}
Sometimes I shy from telling people my hopes and my big goals because I'm afraid of what they will think of me. But, I am learning to get over that because my ultimate goal is to glorify God - not them. So, here are my big picture dreams:
^^^ I want to be a stay at home wife, and in the future, a mom. Jeffrey and I own a leadership development business where we feel like we are making a huge impact helping other people one-on-one. We pursue this in the evenings for now, but I want to take on a bigger role and help our business grow. A "stay at home wife" probably sounds a little lazy, but what that means to me is time to pursue our dreams from 8-5.

{source unknown}
^^^Jeff and I have talked for hours and hours on the topic of what we feel like our passion is. What is our ultimate goal? Well, for us, it is to glorify God through whatever we end up doing both now and long-term. We have seriously talked about starting a Christian youth camp, but we have done a little more soul searching the last couple years to find out why we wanted to start a camp. We realized that the "why" behind that idea was because we both have a passion for evangelizing and helping people get further along in their walk with Christ. So, a camp is really just one of many possible means to our dream. Our business is really small right now, but we feel that as it grows, our ability to help people will grow also. We also have a couple charities that we want to start regularly giving to as our ability grows.

{source} ^^^I cannot wait to design and build our dream home! It will certainly be on the beach...I can picture it. I want to travel the US and find old, worn wood beams and architectural elements to integrate into the design of the house. I want to use as much repurposed material as possible to add a time-worn, one of a kind feel. I could probably write an entire series on my ideas for this dream house of ours. :)

{source unknown}
^^^I want our dream home to be featured in a magazine :)
^^^I have started so many books...I may have started my first one when I was in Jr. High. Writing has always been an outlet for me, and I've known that one day I would put together a string of coherent words long enough to be considered a book. I know that the timing is not right, right now, but one day it will happen. You just wait and see :)
^^^Jeff and I would love to travel. We want to take our kids on missions trips and help them see that they are blessed and can make a huge impact by giving missionaries their love and time. I don't know of a better way to help kids learn to be selfless than to teach them to see and meet the needs in others' lives. We want to be the example of that.
So, "out there" I have put myself. Are you ready to join in? Maybe you need some more inspiration...why not check out 100+ more wonderful ladies who are taking this journey with me. We are all linking up at HolleyGerth.com. Click that lovely box below to see her post and to see where I will be linking up. {If you need some help knowing what this "link up" thing is that I keep talking about, read my post on the "What, How, and Why of link parties."}
I am linking up here:
{connect with Emily here}

My One Little Word & Pictures From Our Minnesota Trip

2013-01-04T07:00:00.000-06:00

Ali Edwards encourages her readers to choose One Little Word for the year. The idea is to have that word drive you, encourage you, or call you to action...whatever you want it to do. You choose the word and there is no right or wrong here. Will you join me and choose a little word for 2013?
I have goals and dreams that I am trying to achieve in 2013 {I wrote about them HERE & HERE}, so I was trying to think of a word that went along with them or would help me stay focused to achieve them...a word that described a character trait that I wanted to develop and a word that would also motivate me. Sometimes words don't come to me when I want them to, but this one did: consistency. I want to strive forward consistently towards my goals. I tend to give up too easily. I need to create good habits and live by them. I can do this, friends!
I decided to go further than just picking out a word. I have taken some time to write out my goals for several different areas of my life, and Jeff and I will be sitting down every week to draw out a game plan for taking action that next week, checking our progress from the week before, and making any needed adjustments.
A great book to read on game planning and getting things done is The Twelve Week Year by Brian Moran {it's also a quick & easy read!}. In addition to writing the 20 Questions for Reflecting on 2012 that I answered in THIS post, The Simple Mom also wrote a post called New Year, New Goals that has downloadable goal-setting questions for you. I am also ordering a necklace with "consistency" etched on it. I'm so excited to have a daily reminder of my word with me all the time. And I love a good excuse to buy something I already want...don't tell Jeff! {Wink}
All of this really ties right back into my upcoming God-Sized Dreams series. I'll be starting the series on Tuesday, so please come back and take this exciting journey with me!
Here are some pictures from our trip to see my family up in Minnesota.

Sisters + their favorite brother-in-law :)

This little planter might have been my first DIY project ever. Oh the memories...

My little brother stealing the show.

Charlie is one spoiled puppy.

He even had gifts under the tree.

Despite the snow, life goes on in Minnesota...very unlike Oklahoma. Oklahoma's snow-clearing action plan is this: wait for it to melt.

My family loves a good cup of coffee...all ten of us {I've mentioned I'm from a large family, right?}. My sister, Stephanie, is a bonafide barista and I may have slightly taken advantage of that knowledge.

And in between cups of coffee I would run outside to snap a few pictures with my new Nikon. Jeffrey completely surprised me with it at Christmas {he wrote rhyming clues that led me on a scavenger hunt through the whole house...how cute is that?}. I was beyond surprised.

And we managed to get us all in one picture right before we returned home. It was a wonderful week of family time. We hated leaving, knowing that we might not all be together again for another long year.
Be sure to subscribe via email so you won't miss a post in 2013! It's easy & free, of course! So, why not?

{connect with Emily here}

20 Questions: Reflecting on 2012

2013-01-03T07:15:00.000-06:00

I hope you all had a wonderful Christmas and New Years! We had a wonderful time visiting my family up in Minnesota. If you follow me on Instagram or Facebook, you probably are well aware of that...I did post a lot of pictures.

Before I plunge too far into 2013, I want to take some time to reflect on 2012. I am pretty big on setting goals and looking to the future, but I feel that to properly check myself, I need to remember the good and learn from the not-so-good of the past months.

I got these great questions from Simple Mom.

1. What was the single best thing that happened this past year?

Becoming 100% debt free was definitely the highlight of our year!

2. What was the single most challenging thing that

happened?

Becoming debt free. For us, that meant that we had to practice a lot of delayed gratification. We had to put a lot of things on hold, and we still do.

3. What was an unexpected joy this past year?

I found a deeper joy in my marriage and in my friendships this year. We have lived in Oklahoma for 2 years now, and sometimes I still feel like we are getting settled, but God has blessed us here.

4. What was an unexpected obstacle?

Myself! I have realized that I need to change before my circumstances will change. That was ~and still is~ an unexpected obstacle sometimes.

5. Pick three words to describe 2012.

Testing. Stretching. Growth.

6. Pick three words your spouse would use to describe your 2012—don’t ask them; guess based on how you think your spouse sees you.

I think Jeff would agree with my three words above. Although many good things happened & I learned so much, I wouldn't want to repeat 2012!

7. Pick three words your spouse would use to describe their 2012—again, without asking.

Motivating. Stretching. Encouraging.

8. What were the best books you read this year?

Grown-Up Girlfriends - by Erin Smalley & Carrie Oliver

Love & Respect - by Emerson Eggerichs

Finding the Hero in Your Husband - by Julianna Slattery

9. With whom were your most valuable relationships?

My mom - she a wonderful friend & mentor. I love her dearly. I wouldn't have survived this year without her!

Mary Beth - this girl pushes me to grow spiritually, emotionally, physically, & creatively. She is a kindred spirit.

I'm going to lump this last one up into an entire family: the Ascols. They readily adopted us and made us feel at home here in Oklahoma. What a sweet family! We love them much-ly {I'm coining that word}.

10. What was your biggest personal change from January to December of this past year?

I learned that I can lay my worries and hurts at the foot of the cross and leave them there. Sometime I would turn around and pick them right back up, but I learned to give them up more often and leave them there longer. God's grace is sufficient for my hurt, and that is something to marvel at.

11. In what way(s) did you grow emotionally?

I learned that my joy does not have to depend on what another person does or does not do to/for me. I still fail miserably at this, but I feel like I grew in this area in 2012.

12. In what way(s) did you grow spiritually?

I felt that I took things to the Lord in prayer a lot quicker than I have in the past.

13. In what way(s) did you grow physically?

I started running! I have never been a runner, but I decided that I would become one. Jeff and I ran my first 5K in August. And I stopped drinking Diet Coke {regularly anyway}.

14. In what way(s) did you grow in your relationships with others?

Some may beg to differ, but I feel like my relationships are more mature now than they were a year ago. I read that "Grown-Up Girlfriends" book, and I learned so much about what a mature relationship should look like. I have a lot to learn, but I feel like I made some progress. And I feel like my relationship with Jeff has just gotten stronger {it's certainly not perfect, but we are always working on it}. I also felt that I got to connect with so many of my readers here this last year. I absolutely love getting to know you through your blogs or through Facebook & Instagram.

15. What was the most enjoyable part of your work (both professionally and at home)?

Well, I got a new nanny job this last year, and I love it. It is more than what I was hoping for! At home, I have really enjoyed working on little projects around the house and sharing them with you all here on PDR. This blog has been a lot of fun this year! I'm only planning to make it better in 2013...so please stick around :).

16. What was the most challenging part of your work (both professionally and at home)?

I love the two little girls I nanny full time, and with that care comes a mother-like concern to make the right choices in the day-to-day things. Caring for children is such a special thing, and I do not take my responsibility lightly. At home, the most challenging thing is time - the lack of it. As I am sure most everyone can relate to my sentiments.

17. What was your single biggest time waster in your life this past year?

To be honest, I let certain people occupy way too much of my time & mental energy. It was quite unhealthy. Time spent on social media would be up there too :)

18. What was the best way you used your time this past year?

We didn't have cable TV this whole last year & I very rarely turned on the radio. I replaced it with listening to the Bible and listening to positive CD's and reading. I tend to have a very negative self-talk, so I put in good things to listen to to shut me up. :) Call me crazy.

19. What was biggest thing you learned this past year?

Basically the things I mentioned in #11-14, but also, I learned to be happy and confident with how God made me.

20. Create a phrase or statement that describes 2012 for you.

"God's plans for my life far exceeded the circumstances of ~~my day~~ 2012." {roughly quoted from Louie Giglio}.

*****

I have been doing a lot of thinking on my goals for 2013. Jeff and I sat down and wrote out a bunch of them on our way home from Minnesota, and it was very good to get them out on paper. What about you? Have you written out your goals {or resolutions} for 2013? It's not too late!

Have you picked out your One Little Word to focus on this year? I'll be sharing my word {and why I chose it} with you in my next post. Be ready to share yours!

{connect with Emily here}

I Am a God-Sized Dreamer! {& an upcoming series in 2013}

2012-12-20T22:47:00.001-06:00

For those of you who follow me on instagram or Facebook, you may have heard me mention that something new and {I think} exciting is going to be happening here starting in January.

If you know me, or if you read my "I need to put myself out there sometimes" post back in October, you know that I'm a dreamer. I wrote down a few of my dreams in that post, and I have been doing a lot of thinking about them lately. Less than a month after writing that post, I got an email from one of my most favorite, inspiring, and encouraging blogs: (in)courage. I read the title in my inbox: "A Dare for You to Keep Dreaming" by Holley Gerth, and I knew it was going to be what I needed that day. I was also thrilled to find out that Holley was creating a "God-Sized Dream Team." She was looking for women bloggers who wanted to say "yes" to their God-sized dream in 2013. I am very blessed and excited to be a part of this group of inspiring and encouraging women.

{source}

I hope you will come back here every week as I write about my dreams and actually take action steps to pursue them. I don't know about you, but I'm kind of tired of just hoping and wishing. It's time for me to start doing something. I'm kind of scared, but mostly excited!

{source unknown}
I know I have shared some of my dreams on here before, but I am taking some time to really think through some things, and I'll be writing a post about them more in the very near future.
Check out our "God-Sized Dreamers" Pinterest board for some inspiration and motivation!

Holley Gerth is the best-selling author of You're Already Amazing and a partner with Dayspring. Holley also co-founded (in) courage & Squee!
Have a Merry Christmas & a Happy New Year!

{connect with Emily here}

Day #12: My Christmas Mantle & How to Make a Homemade Chalkboard { Picture Tutorial}

2012-12-12T06:35:00.001-06:00

Welcome to the last day {day #12} of "It's a DIY Christmas" series and link party! This series has been a lot of fun for me to put together and share with you. It has been a big learning experience too! I never realized how much work this could be. I now admire bloggers even more who write and post every day! I have also enjoyed seeing all the posts that other bloggers have linked up. I really appreciate everyone who has taken the time to participate and share. I hope you come away from this series encouraged and inspired by each other.

If you are just now joining the series, feel free to look around at some of the earlier posts from days 1-11!

Click HERE for the introduction to the series

Click HERE for Day #1: Faux Mercury Glass Ball Ornaments

In addition to my love of chalkboards, I also enjoy finding and collecting frames as I am out thrifting. I recently found a 30" x 30" frame for $2 and it fit perfectly on my mantle, so I decided to fill it with a chalkboard. Here is what you'll need:

A frame
1/4" hard board {I got mine at Lowe's. A huge sheet of it was $8 and they even cut it to size for me for free}.
primer
chalkboard paint
foam roller
chalk

This is what the 1/4" hard board looks like. First, you will want to prime it {I used a spray primer}. Let dry. Then, apply 2-3 coats of chalkboard paint with the foam roller...waiting the prescribed time in between coats. I have painted my chalkboards with a paint brush and with a roller, and the roller makes a huge different. The finished product will be a whole lot smoother using a roller.

After your chalkboard has completely dried, you will need to season your chalkboard by rubbing a piece of chalk all over the surface. This is a very important step!

Make sure you get the whole board!

You can wipe it all off with a wet towel.

I wrote a post HERE about chalkboard art if you would like some pointers or ideas on what to write on your chalkboard.

A big "THANK YOU" to everyone who has supported and encouraged me throughout this series. I don't do a series like this to "show off" what I have done. In fact, most times it's rather humbling and frustrating - to be completely honest. Through this series and through my blog I hope to inspire, help, and encourage you...even through something as simple as my little DIY projects. ***** It's the last day to link up! Remember: Any Christmas related blog post is game {recipes, crafts, Christmas family photos, family traditions, etc}. Be descriptive in your titles! The link party will end at midnight tonight {12/12/12...I didn't even plan that}. The rules:
1.) You may link up a different blog post once every day for a total of 12 entries.
2.) You must submit a direct link to your post...not just to your blog's homepage.
3.) Your entry/entries may be submitted anytime between now and midnight on December 12th. Tweeting, pinning, "liking" & sharing on Facebook, instagraming, etc are not required for you to enter, but it would be awesome if you would do what you can to spread the word....whether you are entering a link or not. Spread the love! {connect with Emily here}

Day #11: Faux French Linen Stockings {no-sew}

2012-12-11T07:31:00.000-06:00

Welcome to day #11 of "It's a DIY Christmas" series and link party! I can't believe it's almost over already. If you are just now joining the series, feel free to look around at some of the earlier posts!

Click HERE for the introduction to the series!

Click HERE for Day #1: Faux Mercury Glass Ball Ornaments

I love the look of antique French linens!

{source}
Instead of buying stockings made out of antique French linen {like those above}, I decided to "faux-it." I think you know by now that I mean "DIY-it" and that this project probably involves no sewing and some painting. You guessed right!
What you will need:

White cotton fabric {or linen!}
A stocking to trace {or you can find a printable template HERE}
fabric scissors
red craft paint
small paint brush
painter's tape
measuring tape
liquid stitch

First, you will need to cut out your template. I doubled my fabric so I would only have to cut once.

Then I cut two strips of fabric about 2 inches by 7 inches for the loop {hanging thing} of the stocking. Set aside.

Then, I put 2 strips of the painter's tape down the middle of my stocking with a gap between them {mine was about a quarter inch?}. I made sure that there were not any bubbles in the tape, then I painted the fabric with my red paint and immediately removed the tape. You can leave it with just one stripe or do a smaller stripe on either side of the middle one. It's up to you how stripe-y you want to get. Set aside and let dry.

Here comes the no-sew part. You want to "hem" the top of the stocking, so fold down the fabric at the top of the stocking about a half inch...

...and apply a line of liquid stitch. Press the hem down until it stays down by itself. Depending on your fabric, you may need to iron down your hem before applying the glue.

After you have hemmed both the front and back piece, lay both pieces on top of each other with the right sides facing in. {As you can see, the front and the back of my stocking are different}

Then you will apply a thin line of liquid stitch right along the edge of the fabric in between the two layers {don't glue the top closed :) }. Press together and let it dry for several hours {the bottle says to let it set for 24 hours, but it is certainly dry before then}. Once it is dry, you can turn it right side in. Next, you will glue the two small pieces of fabric together {only 3 sides!}.

Let dry, and then turn right side in {it is a little tricky because it is so small}. You will want to carefully iron both the stocking and the loop to help create a crisp seam. {Mine is not ironed in the picture below}. Then, attach the loop to the inside of the stocking with liquid stitch {I used a clothespin to help it stay secure until it dried}.

And that is how I make no-sew stockings! Come back tomorrow for the last day of my 12-day series! I will be showing you my Christmas mantle and how I make my chalkboards on the cheap.

*****
It's time to link up! Remember: Any Christmas related blog post is game {recipes, crafts, Christmas family photos, family traditions, etc}. Be descriptive in your titles! The rules:
1.) You may link up a different blog post once every day for a total of 12 entries.
2.) You must submit a direct link to your post...not just to your blog's homepage.
3.) Your entry/entries may be submitted anytime between now and midnight on December 12th. Tweeting, pinning, "liking" & sharing on Facebook, instagraming, etc are not required for you to enter, but it would be awesome if you would do what you can to spread the word....whether you are entering a link or not. Spread the love!

{connect with Emily here}

Day #10: Twig Star Tree Topper

2012-12-10T06:46:00.002-06:00

Welcome to day #10 of "It's a DIY Christmas" series and link party! We are trucking along!

If you are just now joining the series, feel free to look around at some of the earlier posts!

Click HERE for the introduction to the series!

Click HERE for Day #1: Faux Mercury Glass Ball Ornaments

{source}

{source} I was feeling inspired. I went outside and gathered some straight sticks, and broke them to be all about the same length. I gently sanded them to rub off any loose bark or debris and to smooth any sharp points.

Then, I spray painted them a bronze color.

Then, I arranged the sticks the way that I wanted them.

And then I took some twine and began tying them off.

And there is my little {free} star tree topper. The last two posts are going to be fun! I am going to show you my stockings and my Christmas mantle. Come back Tuesday and Wednesday to see them!
***** It's time to link up! Remember: Any Christmas related blog post is game {recipes, crafts, Christmas family photos, family traditions, etc}. Be descriptive in your titles! The rules:
1.) You may link up a different blog post once every day for a total of 12 entries.
2.) You must submit a direct link to your post...not just to your blog's homepage.
3.) Your entry/entries may be submitted anytime between now and midnight on December 12th. Tweeting, pinning, "liking" & sharing on Facebook, instagraming, etc are not required for you to enter, but it would be awesome if you would do what you can to spread the word....whether you are entering a link or not. Spread the love! {connect with Emily here}

Day #9: Ruffled Tree Skirt

2012-12-09T07:25:00.000-06:00

Welcome to day #9 of "It's a DIY Christmas" series and link party! Thank you for joining the series!

If you are just now joining the series, feel free to look around at some of the earlier posts!

Click HERE for the introduction to the series!

Click HERE for Day #1: Faux Mercury Glass Ball Ornaments

Click HERE for Day #2: Advent Calendar Click HERE for Day #3: Chalkboard Art Click HERE for Day #4: Pom Pom Garland {Tutorial} Click HERE for Day #5: Cinnamon Applesauce Ornaments Click HERE for Day #6: Making An Evergreen Wreath Click HERE for Day #7: Glittery Pine Cones Click HERE for day #8: "JOY" Wood Sign
The Christmas tree skirt making people haven't really caught onto the whole "shabby chic" trend. So, what to do? Make one, of course!
Side note: It's inevitable that something {many things} will go wrong during a 12-day series. Considering I have a full-time job where I leave my house at sunrise and come home nearly at sunset, taking nice, bright pictures is very difficult {especially with a point and shoot camera} to do during the week. Like, if I don't take all my pictures on Saturday or Sunday, I'm screwed. I say all that to prepare you for the dark, grainy pictures ahead that weren't taken on a Saturday or Sunday ;). I'm just rolling with the punches, friends.

I found this no-sew ruffled Christmas tree skirt tutorial by Miss Mustard Seed. And here is a picture of her's to show you how great it can look ;)

I wrote about my tree skirt {below} in THIS post back in November. I didn't completely follow Miss Mustard Seed's tutorial for mine because I already had those lovely ruffles from another project.

I made another tree skirt for a friend by following the tutorial, and I decided to take a few more pictures to show you how I did it.
Here's what you'll need:

4 1/2 feet by 4 1/2 feet piece of canvas {I used a leftover piece of drop cloth}. If you have a really big tree, then you can make it 5 feet by 5 feet.
4 yards of muslin {I love muslin because it looks like linen but it's w.a.y. cheaper}
3 yards of white grosgrain ribbon
measuring tape
hot glue gun
material scissors

One of the nice things about working with drop cloth is that it will tear in a straight line. So, I just snip where I want my cut to be, and tear. Easy. The muslin that I used does the same thing and that saved me a ton of time.

The first step is to fold your square piece of drop cloth into quarters and then fold one more time to make a triangle {see picture}. Then, you will cut out a quarter circle at the point {this is for the tree trunk}.

Up close:

Then, you will also cut the base in a quarter circle. It does not have to be perfect, and you can trim it up later. I used a piece of chalk to draw a line to follow. That's not necessary, but it might help my fellow "can't-cut-a-straight-line-to-save-your-life" people.

This is where the sharp, material scissors are helpful.

After you make those 2 cuts, you will open the fabric up {like I have shown below} and cut a slit. This is so you can put it around your tree :). As you can see, my "circle" is quite non-circular. No biggie. I just trimmed it up.

Now, you can set the base of the tree skirt aside and start working on the ruffles. {Is your glue gun heating up? Have extra glue sticks handy!} Get your muslin and cut it into 3-inch strips. I snipped the fabric with my scissors about a 1/2 inch and then tore it the rest of the way.

Starting at the outside edge of the base of the skirt, apply a straight line of glue about 2 1/2 inches from the edge {that way your ruffle will hang off about a 1/2 inch}. I only applied about 3 inches of glue at a time because it dries so quickly. Then you will lay the strip of muslin on the glue and pinch with your fingers to create a ruffle. And repeat all the way around the skirt. When you get to the next row, move up another 2 1/2 inches.

The last step is to attach the ribbon ties. Cut 10, 12-inch pieces of your grosgrain ribbon and glue 5 to each side of the opening

{Source}
And, that is how you make a ruffled Christmas tree skirt!
*****
It's time to link up! Remember: Any Christmas related blog post is game {recipes, crafts, Christmas family photos, family traditions, etc}. Be descriptive in your titles! The rules:
1.) You may link up a different blog post once every day for a total of 12 entries.
2.) You must submit a direct link to your post...not just to your blog's homepage.
3.) Your entry/entries may be submitted anytime between now and midnight on December 12th. Tweeting, pinning, "liking" & sharing on Facebook, instagraming, etc are not required for you to enter, but it would be awesome if you would do what you can to spread the word....whether you are entering a link or not. Spread the love! :)

{connect with Emily here}