Handful of Treasures

Peace to You and Yours This Season

2011-12-12T11:26:00.000-06:00

Happy Holidays!

2011-12-11T14:49:00.001-06:00

I couldn't help myself, I just had to share.

This year has been filled with ... So much, that's the best I can say. It's taken me a long while to come this close to being myself again, and I'm still not quite there yet. But one of the things I did recently to help me get back in my Cara groove is add my name to the Southern Weddings Ornament Exchange and also the Brooklyn Bride Blog Card Swap. I'm not ecstatic with my results, but just the process of crafting---despite beginning all overwhelmed with what would I possibly make and wondering if anything I made would be good!-- I just kept believing that if I kept pushing, to just enjoy the process of paper-selecting and snipping and gluing and hole-punching and adding my awful handwriting, I'd be just that much closer to the Old Me. And I think it worked :)

So here are my results -- not extraordinarily beautiful like they were in my head, but still charming enough for me to be proud to send them out :)

(gingerbread men ornaments,
made from sandpaper + faux-leather scrapbook paper, + clear glitter + buttons from scrapbook paper + bowtie from scraps from the hubs' oxford shirt)

(holiday card made by me: scrapbook paper, decorative tape, silver pen)

(holiday card by me: hand-stitched dove from white felt; scrapbook papers; clear glitter "Peace" and "2011;" same below, except for multi-patterned Christmas trees card is all paper)

I hope for you that, sometime during these holidays, the sense of your amazingness strikes you; that you share more than you think you can give, and find yourself surprised at how much is actually in you; that you can and do surround yourself with loved ones and--for next year--find yourself strong enough to say goodbye to those who don't love you, with no regrets; and to find a way to share love and warmth with someone less fortunate -- whether it be by serving Christmas dinner at a local shelter, or not tailgating the idiot driver who cut you off (clearly that person is a less fortunate driver!).

Happiest holiday wishes to you all!

Worth the Break

2011-03-25T14:16:00.000-05:00

omg, if I were anywhere *near* the state of California, I'd be there in a heartbeat.

{a pink kind of day}

2011-01-20T07:59:00.000-06:00

{this is glamorous} :: maryruffle:: Flower Magazine

via shestolemyshoes

I know I said farewell, but I thought I'd pop in to say hello :)

Hello.

I hope all of you are doing fabulous. These pretties were just too pretty not to share. Especially when it seems there's a bit of cheer that needs some spreading around these days, but maybe that's just in my neck of the woods. But here's to wishes for a pink kind of day to all of you! And since I've come back just once, I'll just say toodaloo for now :)

Friday Love! {Cliff Mautner Photography}

2010-10-29T13:10:00.001-05:00

Friday Love! {G.E. Masana}

2010-10-22T08:09:00.000-05:00

G.E. Masana Photography

Dress Details {Megan Sorel Photography}

2010-09-30T11:11:00.000-05:00

via Style Me Pretty

It's been a fabulous run....

2010-09-25T08:32:00.002-05:00

Well, lovelies, it has been fabulous, just being here with you. But my mind has been straying elsewhere as of late. My day job started a new restrictive internet policy a few months ago, so my activity became more and more limited. And, while losing moments at work was okay, lately I've been learning that I don't really want to lose moments outside of work -- I've got friends pursuing sewing classes, aerobics, yoga, cake decorating, scuba -- and I want to, too! Well, maybe not scuba, but you get what I mean :) And while I like to think I enjoy having a full schedule, I know I actually don't multi-task too well, and when I'm focused on something, I am *focused.*

And for a good almost-2 years, that was here. But I need to make a clean break. (Hee, insert "It's not you, it's me!" cheesiness.) I know, I hate that this seems like a break up post (erm, awkward?) -- but coming here + the blogosphere was such a haven for me, it was fantastic! And I just wanted to say thank you, and say goodbye properly.

Really, it's the reading of my 130+ blogroll that is beginning to wear on me. And a huge chunk of this blog was to share the loves I found. Hence, my need to say Thank You for joining me on this journey, but I believe this is my last stop.

Well, actually, I have three more posts scheduled, staggered for the end of this month and next month, just because those were scheduled a while ago. And if I do jump back into hoarding pretties again, you can catch what catches my eye on my tumblr.

But: I wish peace and happiness and serenity for all of you -- and thank you.

Friday Love! {G.E. Masana}

2010-09-24T08:07:00.001-05:00

G.E. Masana Photography

Friday Love {G.E. Masana}

2010-09-17T12:50:00.001-05:00

G.E. Masana Photography

Dress Details {Katy Gray Photography}

2010-09-16T10:01:00.006-05:00

Katy Gray Photography, feat. on The Bride's Cafe

...

2010-09-12T21:37:00.002-05:00

This pretty much sums up how I feel. In the mmm-laying-out-and-doing-nothing-sounds-fantastic kind of way. So I might be a little scarce around here -- cheers to you + enjoying these last summer rays + days!

Friday Love! {The Nichols}

2010-09-10T12:41:00.005-05:00

Mmm, lazy weekend... and Friday Faves

2010-09-10T07:54:00.049-05:00

So, I've been feeling a bit slothful lately. If that's a word, but hey, it perfectly describes how I've been feeling :). But a few things have seriously taken my breath away this week, like...

Gorgeous stencil patterns at Royal Design Studio, featured on MadebyGirl (although the pic below is just an idea I like, found in flickr... I just like the light-on-light idea -- like maybe I'd go for a pearl or gold on our cream walls...?)

Stencil Ease

A bunch of lovelies on Gathering Spriggs... and gorgeous rooms around the blogosphere, like...

Nesting Newbies, feat. on Lavender & Lillies

via Desire to Inspire, feat. Lloyd Ralphs Design, James Tse Photography

And all of the lovely wedding dresses + women + their stories in "Great Women and the Designers Who Dressed Them" on Bride Chic...

Princess Grace Kelly via The Incredible Bride/TIBimages

And ...

via Oh, hello friend

Oh, Hello Friend caught my eye because *hello* that's such a grown up way to do Harry Potter! And thank goodness, because I was starting to freak out about how this party was going to go -- what, I haven't shared those deets with you yet? Well, I'll refrain for now + maybe just do a post- post :) Here's what I've got so far though -- and just a fraction of the price for sign painted by someone other than yours truly, whoo whoo!

So maybe this weekend won't be so lazy. Cheers to a fantastic weekend for all of you!

Dress Details {Nessa K Photography}

2010-09-09T11:54:00.000-05:00

{Nessa K Photography}, feat. on The Bride's Cafe

peace

2010-09-08T00:01:00.002-05:00

sometimes, that's all you need, just a moment. here's to those moments.

Happy Labor Day!

2010-09-06T12:26:00.003-05:00

When I think of Labor Day, I think of...

DickandJanesBooks, (c) Better Homes and Gardens BBQ, 1956

funretro

Yellowdogvintage

desiretoinpire

Hope everyone Stateside is having a fantastic holiday :)!

Have a fantastic weekend!

2010-09-03T13:16:00.000-05:00

Flowerwild Designs

Ahh, an extra long weekend, I'm so excited :) Dionne said it best, but I'll just simply say: I hope all of you truly enjoy your weekend, lovelies :)

Flowerwild Designs

Friday Love! {Francis Joseph Photography}

2010-09-03T08:51:00.000-05:00

{Francis Joseph Photography}

Dress Details {Megan Sorel Photography}

2010-09-02T11:09:00.000-05:00

via Style Me Pretty

{comfort baking}

2010-09-01T21:15:00.002-05:00

omg, I just saw an episode of one of my fave shows (Criminal Minds) and I totally just bawled. Apparently I missed it when it aired, oh, last November. But um, hello, what happened to the good guys are supposed to win? So now I'm *definitely* making a batch of this.

Anyone else out there like to comfort-bake?

Le Sigh {Etsy Finds}

2010-09-01T08:39:00.008-05:00

When I popped by Lovely Clusters, I was immediately drawn to Betsy Jewelry Design (betsy3) in the curated cluster on the first page --let's enjoy this gorgeousness together, shall we?

Invidia Earrings

Grape Berry Necklace

Contessa Earrings

Green Flower necklace

Earth breathing earrings

Goccia Earrings

{Drum Roll Please...} CSN Stores Giveaway Winner!

2010-08-31T08:03:00.016-05:00

letterpress

Thank you so much to everyone who has popped by since I announced my CSN Stores giveaway! And thank you, Jess, with CSN Stores for sponsoring this giveaway!
Without further ado, the randomly-selected winner is... Deni of

THESE HAPPY DAYS

(and omg, everyone, scope out this post -- I love it!)

Congrats, Deni! CSN Stores should be in touch with you soon :)

FineDayPress

GreenGrassPress

For the rest of you who entered: alas, no more gift cards up my sleeve (yet). But hey, Rachel of Lovely Clusters is back from her vacay + shared some gorgeous photographs she took! So pop on over there to console yourself with lovelies :) Happy Tuesday!

Weekend Recap

2010-08-30T09:12:00.000-05:00

These fantastic weekends are something I could get used to.

Impromptu date night with the hubs.

(by me)
sake flight at Sushi Zushi, since the hubs' soccer practice made us a little too late to join some friends until...

Birthday dessert cookies!

Then, Mexican vanilla ice cream + strawberries the next day with friends...

And the most fabulous 30th party I've ever seen -- kudos to the event planner, the celebrant's sister!

Everything looked *fantastic* I wish I had a real camera + had managed to capture more details than these, like the uuuuubber gorgeous layer cake + all the rustic-chic bunting + all the gorgeous, hand-painted bottle vases, but you'll just have to take my word on those...

Then a little light reading the next day.

Then lots and lots of sleeping.

Martha Stewart feat. on Escapade, via myfarmhouse

Etsy finds, too lovely not to share!

2010-08-28T10:28:00.000-05:00

Curated by AddieDesigns

IsabelleAbramson, RevisionDesignAus, CCPerrow, missquitecontrary

WhiteOwl, SHOTbySTARR, dirtycityvintage, TheWallflowerCompany

hijirik, BirdOnALine, photoworksbydawn, yourfairytalewedding

Friday Love! {Jory Cordy Photography}

2010-08-27T12:59:00.009-05:00

Jory Cordy Photography, feat. on Southern Weddings Magazine

Happy Friday!

2010-08-27T09:15:00.000-05:00

Thanks to everyone who's entered the giveaway -- just a few more days left, if you haven't yet :)! Well, I hope everyone's weekend is as fantastic as I hope mine to be!

A little reading....

Ice cream with friends...

And a fantastic 30th birthday celebration for my friend!

designsponge feat. kiki la ru

Happy Weekend!

Dress Details {Nessa K Photography}

2010-08-26T08:35:00.003-05:00

Nessa K Photography
feat. on The Bride's Cafe

Pretty pretties...

2010-08-25T08:26:00.002-05:00

The Taj by Wajid Drabu

For YOU, Lovelies! {CSN Stores Giveaway: Ended 8/30}

2010-08-24T07:32:00.007-05:00

{business cards by deliciousindustries on etsy}

So, lately it's been all about me me me :), but I've had a few new hellos, and they've made my day!

{Mary Kate McDevitt on etsy}

So, when Jess with CSN Stores contacted me to host a giveaway, I was ecstatic to say YES! and hopefully pass on happies to you guys! What are the deets? Four chances to win, with entries due on Monday, 8/30 at 8pm CST. I'll announce the winner on Tuesday morning (8/31) -- good luck :)!

If y'all haven't heard, CSN Stores is like a mega-site -- so if you're looking for home decor or dinnerware or cake pans + bakeware or luggage or shoes or anything else for you or for a friend, they probably have it in one of their 200+ stores !
For a chance to win a $40 gift certificate, valid at any CSN store, here's what you do (any combo or all of these):

(1) Leave me a comment with what you'd buy, what you're hoping to buy, or just saying hello + how you found me!
(2) Leave me a comment if you’re a public follower of Handful of Treasures.
(3) Leave me a comment if you blog about this giveaway, with a link back to your post.
(4) Leave me a comment if you tweet about this giveaway, with the specific link to your tweet.

And that's it! [Updated 8/30: Giveaway is now closed, but thanks for popping over!]

A few notes:
- This giveaway is only open to US & Canadian residents.
- The gift certificate excludes shipping and international fees, as applicable.
- If your blog doesn't have a link to your email or if you don't have a blog, please include your email in your comment so I can find you if you win!

Just to throw in a few more pretties, here's what caught my eye for under $40 on CSN Stores...

Amy Butler Lingerie Envelopes ($33!)

any one of these travel alarm clocks ($29-33)

Pfaltzgraff Pedestal Server ($30)

MU Kitchen MUbamboo towel, Reston Lloyd tea kettle, ChefnSwitchit spreader spatula, set of Le Creuset silicon baking cups, Le Creuset Oven Mitt, Flirty Aprons Chic Pink Apron

And if money were no object, I'd use $40 towards....

Hatteras Hammocks Spring Bay Cushioned Hammock

Butler Writing Desk

Finally, for the sake of full disclosure: I'm not receiving compensation for this giveaway, but was approached by Jess at CSN Stores. Thanks for playing, kids! Good luck + don't be shy :)!

Happy Monday! {Weekend Recap}

2010-08-23T08:40:00.005-05:00

Le. Sigh. My weekend was fan.tastic.

Sand volleyball tournament on Saturday. Early. Well, early for me ;)
And hot.

Remedied later by a *fantastic* afternoon + evening at our friend's pool.
Bratwursts on the grill + caramelized onions, chips + ranch dip, Woodchuck, and freshly baked brownies. With lots of lounging + catching up. Love love love.

Their awesome entry way + the gorgeous light deserved its own photo :)

And dinner on Sunday at our place with some other friends, who brought peanut butter cup martini fixins in tow. I know, don't you wish you had friends like these ;)? I wish I'd taken photos of my contributions, but just imagine a fantastic spinach + cherry tomato + tortellini salad (with a light vinaigrette dressing), bacon-wrapped spinach-stuffed chicken breast (I had lots of spinach to get rid of :D), and peanut butter chocolate chip cookies.

In case you can't tell, the word of the week is "fantastic" -- here's to hoping y'all have a fantastic Monday + week!

Shop Love {Anthropologie}

2010-08-21T09:01:00.001-05:00

So, um, I want to get married all over again, just to wear this dress, which would be perfect for a lovely afternoon ceremony + reception.

Bagbergh dress at Anthropologie

I spotted this treasure while I was shopping for some gifts the other day ... and then when I popped online to share it, I found these oh-so-hearts frocks, too!

Seaside Fields dress

Catmint Dress

Marine Mural dress

Pencil Eraser Dress

Manor Gates dress

And my other uber-favorite is the Mullany Dress!

And of course, I have to thank my friend K for pointing me in the direction of Anthro, since I've been a little absent -- she scored ~~these rugs~~ on super sale, lucky girl!! Man, one's already sold out! Way to go K -- the other one is this fun bold print, I love it!

Friday Love! {One Love Photo}

2010-08-20T13:12:00.000-05:00

One Love Photo via Creative Inspiration

Friday Faves!

2010-08-20T08:36:00.000-05:00

Orange Girl Photographs feat. on Style Me Pretty, via Creative Inspiration

It's been a while since I've done a Friday Faves post -- there was a period when there were too many pretties, and then lately like everything was just okay-pretty (a little de-sensitized perhaps?). And then I stumbled across Creative Inspiration again --- le sigh! I hope your weekend are as beautiful as these lovelies!

{source?}

Pottery Barn, via Camilla at Home

by Danita Art, also on etsy

Dress Details! {Joy Marie Photography}

2010-08-19T10:23:00.003-05:00

{Joy Marie Photography}

Okay, this isn't exactly a dress, but isn't it so glamourous?

what.a.rockfest. {etsy finds}

2010-08-18T00:03:00.001-05:00

Clearly, we all know I like to ... I don't want to say "toot my own horn," so I'm going to call it "celebrating." But seriously -- tonight's sand volleyball game *was amazing*, my team was on fire! If I could express myself in letterpress cards, they would be something like these lovely etsy finds...

{sycamorestreetpress}

{NavyBlueNotes}

{majoiepress}

[not letterpress but still awesome:]

{cooljane}

{TweeCards}

I am not sporty (or coordinated, generally) by any means, but something about fantastic teamwork makes for such a rockin night. Whooooo, Pitchers!

Fantastic Shoes

2010-08-17T07:57:00.001-05:00

Kate Spade

One of the ladies in my office fell in love with these crazy gorgeous shoes. And guess what? Her (grown) children are buying them for her for a gift :)! I think this is the bestest kind of gift -- a splurge that you'd never buy yourself because it's so ridiculously luxurious (at least, to some of us!), but you absolutely deserve ;) What have y'all gotten like this (or wish someone would sweep in and treat you to)? I won't lie -- fantastic shoes or a fabulous statement necklace are pretty high on my list!

Happy Monday!

2010-08-16T09:01:00.001-05:00

Ahh, what a relaxing weekend. Even though I stopped into the office -- but sometimes, productivity is just as calming as doing nothing, you know what I mean? *And* I took advantage of the Aaron Brothers' rockin 40% off coupon + finally got a frame for this print -- whoo-hoo! Cheers to a productive Monday!

print: formerly jennysbakeshop (no longer open)

(photo by me)

so.freakin.hilarious. {hearts Despicable Me!}

2010-08-15T22:39:00.000-05:00

Pure Loveliness {Style Circle} + Rabbit Trails

2010-08-15T09:37:00.000-05:00

So, first, Bride Chic led me to this gorgeousgorgeousgorgeous board, created by Brancoprata.

Then, I popped over to Brancoprata. Um, more gorgeousness -- like Tuesday Shoes Day and their feature on Love & Lavender and lots of stuff. But the most recent post was a board designed to celebrate Abby of SuperBurbs, who apparently got married yesterday. (I know, this is like a tv show, I love it!) So of course I popped over!

And saw this: a quilt created by her fantastic cyber bridesmaids and etsy seller Tapestri!!!

SuperBurbs, quilt by Tapestri

The quilt has quotes from all of them -- apparently, each "guest" at Tapestri can purchase a square individually and submit a quote for Tapestri to embroider -- I.love.it. [And again, it's like the world knows what I need, because this is so what I was thinking for my mother-in-law!]

Here's to hoping all this Sunday sunshine finds you well :)!

A New Adventure: The 60s

2010-08-14T09:44:00.000-05:00

Miss Sixty

So. My absolutely fantastic mother-in-law turns 60 at the end of next month. She is the lady who is The One who organizes the bestest celebrations for her sisters when they turned 50 and her friends who turned 40, and makes the most amazing paper crafts that blows everyone out of the water. (Seriously: at that baby shower I attended a few weeks ago, she had made the menus and invites, and there were *complete strangers* asking to take some home, and wanted to hire her for other events. Or, maybe that last part is in my head.)

A-hem.

So, now it's her turn to be celebrated.

Cheers to the next 6 weeks of party planning!

Friday Love! {Francis Joseph Phtoography}

2010-08-13T12:42:00.003-05:00

{Francis Joseph Photography}

(really, pop on over to Francis Joseph's blog -- there are *so* many delights in this post!)

Happy Almost Weekend!!

2010-08-12T17:08:00.002-05:00

LaPetiteBoheme

Hooray, the weekend is almost here! I've just found out that my aunts*might* be coming into town tomorrow for their last day in the States! See, their visa, for which they had applied in THE 80'S!, was approved earlier this year, and they finally got to come over from the Philippines! They've been staying with my parents and sister, and I've seen them once when I was able to drive in. But, fingers crossed, they'll drive in tomorrow to my neck of the woods with my Sister, and get to scope out our State Capital :)!

by me: work getting done on the Capitol!

Else, hopefully I can drive into where they're staying with my family. Regardless, I hope all of you have a fantastic weekend!

Dress Details {Meg Perotti Photography}

2010-08-12T12:04:00.002-05:00

Beautiful Greys

2010-08-11T21:04:00.001-05:00

I saw this Vera Wang dress and literally stopped in my [online scrolling] tracks. And I love all those fashion + interior design posts, like at Coco + Kelley and The City Sage and Delights by Design, so I thought I'd try my own :)! Gah, why doesn't money grown on trees...

Vera Wang dress, Horchow

Etsy Finds

2010-08-10T08:38:00.003-05:00

Love these brights! Curated by BlvdOfTheAllies

Row 1: infusion, ffflowers, betsy3, feltmeupdesigns
Row 2: hannebdesign, TCsoAp, Jealousydesign, Lirola
Row 3: SewnNatural, mojospastyle, layoutsfromtheheart, abbeyroaddesign
Row 4: LusciousAllure, enamour, Mudgoddess, LunabudKnits

Shop around the corner: Mercury Design

2010-08-09T10:04:00.000-05:00

A couple weeks ago, I was shopping at a lovely jeweler's with a friend for her birthday gift, when we got to stop off at the cutest store just a few doors down: Mercury Design Studio. I wish my photography skills were a smidge better, but y'all get the idea -- don't they have just the neatest things + display cases?

And check out their paper goods/stationary items! Striped straws, masking tapes, and the cutest gift tags!

Now if I had my own store, I wonder what I would carry, and how I'd display things... how about you? What items would you carry and what kind of displays appeal to you?

Pure & Simple {Style Circle}

2010-08-08T13:37:00.000-05:00

Credits here!

More of The Bestest

2010-08-07T10:34:00.010-05:00

I know, can I stop gushing already? But I can't help it -- it always cheers me up to read about other people's ecstaticism, so I hope that all of this comes out the same.

But -- I stepped out onto my front porch yesterday afternoon to leave out some cat treats that are, apparently, offensive to my cat, but I think other visiting cats [which are many] will enjoy.

And when I turned around, what did I see?

And I immediately recognized the return address of MadeByGirl (love her!), and I was thinking, "Did I win something I don't remember...?"

And so I popped it open inside the house, opened the tube, and heard a business-card *plink* and saw at the bottom ...

!!! That would be La na & Eliza beth

And then when I opened up the tissue-wrapped surprise, I saw...

print (c) MadeByGirl, pic by me

I heart you girls, this was the perfect way to commemorate my oral argument!!! Seriously, I almost cried when I read the card + saw the print -- it was taking what I uber-heart, completely unrelated to this event that had been consuming my life for far too long (and which still lingers as I fall asleep or stand in the shower) -- I mean, maybe it doesn't make sense, but it is perfection for me. Like replacing all this fear + stress with nothing but love :)

Thanks, girls :)! I hope everyone is having a beautiful weekend!

Friday Love! {Peacock Photography}

2010-08-06T15:18:00.000-05:00

{Peacock Photography}

Happy Friday!

2010-08-06T10:39:00.005-05:00

Seriously, I'm so lucky. Not just because I knocked out that uber-scary deal Wednesday, but because I have the kinds of friends who celebrate with me with, say, tres leches cupcakes!

{photo by me, cupcake from J. Golden*}

And margaritas in a teeny, not-so-much-air-conditioned-but-still-fun spot!

And later tonight: dinner at my place!

(c) e.t.

(except this will actually be Church's, but there just aren't any good photos of Church's tenders out there -- but seriously, if you haven't had those, they are delicious. Heart attack a near certainty, true, but mmm.)

What better friends can a girl ask for :)?

And, lest you think that I am uber self-centered and all about celebrating me (even if I am, so?) -- my best friend is coming into town with her hubs on Sunday and staying with us a couple days, before she gets to actualize her dream of MOVING TO THE BIG APPLE, WOOT!

knotworkshop

So, I thought it would be fantastic to finally get to try out my Magnolia cookbook -- but then Snippet & Ink linked to Smitten Kitchen, who already did this test run. So I'll save my novice attempt and follow her adaptation -- yea, fantastic bakers!

Here is to hoping all of you have fantastic weekends!!

*okay, this is that venture I talked about way back when -- I started this off for J. Golden's birthday present, since she just celebrated her golden birthday. Pop on over now and then -- it's not quite up and running yet (since the first 2 posts are mine, hee!), but I think it's going to be a fun space we share photos, a little fun, and who knows what else :) Cheers!

Dress Details {Jory Cordy Photography}

2010-08-05T11:03:00.000-05:00

Jory Cordy Photography via Southern Weddings Magazine

I'm off!

2010-08-03T09:37:00.002-05:00

Wish me luck! And that I don't just stand there for 20 mins tomorrow, not saying a word. Or, perhaps worse, saying words that don't make sense. You know, just words. And, that hopefully I'll have some time for some beignets, hee!

Lovely Chelsea Clinton in Vera Wang {Mrs. O}

2010-08-01T17:20:00.002-05:00

Le sigh, Chelsea Clinton looks so stunning (and happy!) in these beautiful wedding photos (and her gorgeous Vera gown!)!

Best wishes to the newlyweds!

Genevieve de Manio via Getty Images, feat. on The Epoch Times

Genevieve de Manio via Getty Images, feat. on Mrs. O.

Last Days of Summer Brights {Style Circle}

2010-08-01T10:35:00.006-05:00

Credits here!

Time Transport + Rose Petals

2010-07-31T22:36:00.000-05:00

via +

I'm working, really, I am. But then the hubs came home and plugged in his iPhone to the speaker, and on came our song -- well, the song I apparently belted out every time it came on the radio whenever we drove around town, because I knew the lyrics to maybe 3 songs, courtesy of my sister. (I was/am a little music clueless.) Thus, it became "our song."

And on our first roadtrip together, the hubs (then "b/f") stopped off for gas or something, and asked me to reach into the glove compartment for something -- and in there was the CD of the band who played the song, nestled in a bed of rose petals and those crinkly tissue shreds.

I know, isn't that almost ridiculously romantic? I'm so lucky, right :)? Here's a couple more rose petal pics I couldn't resist, even though I couldn't find one of a glove-compartment filled with rose petals...

via +

Sarah Kaye Reps via +

via +

Pretty Pinks {etsy finds}

2010-07-31T09:48:00.000-05:00

Aren't these picks so sigh-worthy? Curated by JBMDesigns.

Row 1: Claire LaFaye, PookieandPierre, NewFashionedWhispers, Sephyra
Row 2: SeaUnicorn, Gracious Paper, bellinabridal, MylolaFashion
Row 3: Fairytale13, myrakim, TheJewelryChateau, ProvidenceAndGrace

Friday Love!

2010-07-30T12:53:00.001-05:00

The Bestest + Happy Weekend!

2010-07-30T00:14:00.000-05:00

via JustBeSplendid

These past few days at work, even though they've been incredibly stressful, I have just been happy. And today was the birthday of one of my faves, and shopping for her was fun + seriously, she does have the best reactions to opening gifts :D And I got to bake, and enjoy just a slice. Even though the cakeballs I attempted to make were a fail not just once (weird discoloring of the white chocolate) but twice (seizing of the milk chocolate). But.

I also just finished listening to my practice and panel of colleagues, and also the discussions with my friends at work + their feedback. And I am just blown away at how supportive everyone is, seriously.

So, cheers to a fabulous weekend to everybody, and also wishes that everyone has a supportive, fabulous work environment like I do. And if not (other than if you're a fantastic freelancer or business owner :)! ) -- seriously, get out. Because a positive work environment is a.mazing, truly.

via paperbowlsnlemons

Dress Details {Jory Cordy Photography}

2010-07-29T11:55:00.006-05:00

Jory Cordy Photography via Southern Weddings Magazine

Pretty Pretties

2010-07-27T19:50:00.001-05:00

Le sigh. I would love to melt into a world where nothing but lovelies like these exist!

JL Designs, Joyful Weddings and Events, and Jessica Claire Photography

Hahaha -- I was just popping by JL Designs' blog and happened across these :), since I've been trying to winnow down my wedding addiction -- but these were also featured on Green Wedding Shoes! See, this is exactly why I think wedding blogs shouldn't necessarily be the first thing to go -- look at what we could be missing!

Happy Monday!

2010-07-26T07:57:00.004-05:00

I had a fantastic, rejuvenating weekend. I hope all of you had the same -- here's to bright, cheery wishes for the week!

{unknown} via +

Lovely Brilliance

2010-07-25T10:50:00.000-05:00

Credits here on Style Me Pretty's Style Circle

Happy Weekend!

2010-07-24T09:26:00.001-05:00

Yesterday morning started out with one of these.

Uncleboatshoes @ flickr

Fine, and one of these, too, if you *must* know.

mooglet @ flickr

It has just been one of those.... yes. So, today I'm hitting this up with friends.

pixajen @ flickr

Comfort-eating + running away, what? I know, I'm so not a grown-up.
But that's what tomorrow is for, right ;)?

Atlanta Journal via gtwfan

But really, cheers to a fabulous weekend to everyone :)!

Friday Love!

2010-07-23T13:03:00.001-05:00

Dress Details {Joy Marie Photography}

2010-07-22T10:21:00.001-05:00

Joy Marie Photography

Woes me {etsy finds}

2010-07-21T09:39:00.000-05:00

Fever: SB Studio via fffound

Boo. I so do not have time to feel under the weather! But I'll just keep the thoughts of these etsy finds with me -- their darlingness is just the cheer I need to get over this!

{Wild4Stamps}

{gemsbyjeffnme}

[This one made me laugh out loud! A little gross if you think too hard, but hilarious :D]

{argentoCreations}

{paperlaundry}

Cattle Drive + Kolaches

2010-07-19T21:53:00.000-05:00

Cattle Drive {by me}

mmmmm Kolaches by {NoNoJoe at flickr}

Best work trip. And we still have halfway to go!

Beautiful Sunday Wishes

2010-07-18T12:38:00.001-05:00

Craig and Eva Sanders, via Style Me Pretty

It is seriously crunch time, ladies (and gents?) I just thought this picture beautifully captured what I hope for today: calm, serenity, beauty, and hope -- is that silly? But, cheers to wishing everyone a fantastic week -- I will check in periodically, but until this huge project I have blows over (August 4, whoop!), it'll be touch and go.

But, if you are so inclined, a summary of my life, currently, in pictures:

Attended a party baby shower! Pure delight.

{zalita}

Learning how to argue sandbagging.

Mahdi Abdulrazak via flickr

Catch-up visit with my sister at Starbucks, transforming into seeing my aunts visiting from the Philippines and introducing my husband to them for the first time! Incredible is just the tip of adjectives I could use to describe that impromptu visit. Long long long story.

6igella

And, surprise, work work work work work work.

Adam Peterson on flickr, via sweethomestyle

Do update me on anything fabulous happening in your life, please?

Friday Love!

2010-07-16T13:12:00.000-05:00

Dress Details {Aaron Delesie Photography}

2010-07-15T10:20:00.003-05:00

Aaron Delesie Photography via Style Me Pretty

Yea, Lana & Shea! {Blue Sunshine Photography}

2010-07-14T10:44:00.002-05:00

Eeee, how exciting! My friends Lana & Shea are featured on The Elegant Owl, the blog of wedding coordinating team SH Weddings! Do pop on over to see a handful of their wedding's lovelies, photographed by Blue Sunshine Photography!

{Blue Sunshine Photography}

Sunshine & sorrow

2010-07-13T12:11:00.001-05:00

Life is a little crazy for me these days.

But here's a little sunshine.

MissMessie on flickr

And on a wholly more somber note: if you get a chance, read this post. It is truly heartbreakingly beautiful, and I feel guilty even saying that it's beautiful. But love is beautiful, and warm sunshine thoughts sent would be much appreciated, yes? Or donations in the name of Marija Stephens to the Children's Memorial Hospital, if you prefer.

Lovely, Soothing Color Palette {etsy finds}

2010-07-11T12:38:00.023-05:00

Curated by rafya

Row 1: nitca, AREjewellery, AddieDesigns, Lirola
Row 2: lonkoosh, Thrush, ethanollie, treeghost
Row 3: AlicesLookingGlass, ekra, LuxuryJewelry, DawnCorrespondence
Row 4: PUREnaturalMinerals, inmynest, DollfaceDeVille, slubird

Style Circle: Cafe au Lait + Cocoa

2010-07-10T12:04:00.000-05:00

Isn't the bride just the cutest? And that cupcake -- divine!

Credits here

Friday Love!

2010-07-09T13:07:00.002-05:00

Le sigh {Reem Acra}

2010-07-09T11:07:00.001-05:00

Slipped through my fingers! Not that I had $999.99 + shipping for this
dress, but still, you know that feeling when even something you could
never have is taken away, you still feel its loss? {transported back
to junior high crushes, what?}

Happy Friday!

2010-07-09T08:28:00.001-05:00

Life is fantastic. Just a smidge more hectic than I'd like. Although, it's probably even more hectic than I'm letting myself even feel, whoops! But this weekend is the hubs's family reunion -- his whole maternal grandmother's family!

{Brian Indrelunas on flickr}

We'll be on the river -- woot!

{Eric Conner on flickr}

Although, the weather forecast makes it more like...

{Greg Peverill-Conti on flickr}

But hopefully we'll enjoy some of these!!

{Michelle Tribe on flickr}

And these (which I baked late late last night!!)

{katrina on flickr}

Cheers to a fantastic weekend to all of you!

Dress Details! {Peacock Photography}

2010-07-08T08:20:00.000-05:00

{Peacock Photography}

Ahhh, Summer: Life is a Beach! {Martha Stewart Love}

2010-07-07T03:22:00.000-05:00

Oh, Martha, you sure can bring on the summer cheer -- as in, how can we get beach-ready?

A towel tote!

A mesh bag tote!

A chair (seriously?)

Pockets on a beach blanket

Terry cloth pillow shams!

Warm Thoughts

2010-07-06T09:50:00.000-05:00

I'm feeling like sending a big ol box of cookies to the staff of this favorite cafe of mine + my coworkers, which is literally down the alley from our office. Seriously, those guys are just so friendly, and the food is always fab -- and really, who loves work after a long weekend? And I think I overheard one of the guys say something happened to his car this morning, boo!

How about any of you, any random acts of kindness you want to share, received or given lately :)? Happy Tuesday thoughts!

Monday Swoon {Claire La Faye}

2010-07-05T08:21:00.003-05:00

I Do, of CLF by Claire La Faye

Mmmm, marvelous long weekends which cover a Monday morning -- what more can you ask for? Other than delicious fripperies to visually sip and enjoy with the extended holiday? I concur. The CLF line of Claire La Faye is just the thing.

Queen for a Day

Blue Lagoon

Parisian Princess

above and below, Ivory Parisian Princess

It Must Have Been Roses

Fruits of Procrastination: Happy July 4!

2010-07-04T12:14:00.000-05:00

Here's to hoping all of you are enjoying good company, good food, and lots of sunshine!

Credits here!

Style Circle {Primary Colors, All Grown Up}

2010-07-03T11:36:00.001-05:00

Credits here

Friday Love!

2010-07-02T13:05:00.001-05:00

Friday Faves

2010-07-02T09:53:00.001-05:00

Okay, I tried to use another method for bookmarking my week's faves, but that garners me just as many pretties to share, which doesn't help me speedily share the lovelies.

So, here are my top 5 :D.... or perhaps the five most recently-starred breathtaking images in my googlereader :D...

City of Dionne

Tanja Lippert Photography

Mrs. Lillien

Lanalou Style, feat. Lonny and Olaf Szczepaniak

Bokeh by the Window, by pepography feat. on Luphia Loves

Lovely Clusters' Pinterest color board

Yes, please

2010-07-01T19:02:00.000-05:00

eCurry

Remember this? This is a much prettier pic than my attempt -- regardless, I just had one of those Betty Crocker brownies-in-a-bowl/microwave deals, and it totally hit the spot. No, not as good as a full on pan of brownies, but just what I need right now. Wishing y'all warm-brownie wishes right now...

Dress Details {Elizabeth Dye + The English Dept.}

2010-07-01T09:32:00.013-05:00

I am pretty sure I have a {love Elizabeth Dye + The English Dept.} post ... maybe quarterly? I just can't help it, her work is just lovely -- I even emailed Ms. Dye (yes, halfway across the country, never mind that) to see if it was even conceivable for her to work her magic on a simple ivory silk sheath (with the cutest pleats on the bottom! hmm, perhaps not so simple) I purchased, plus some antique lace I picked up elsewhere. Alas, Ms. Dye kindly suggested that thousands of miles doesn't quite work out well when also re-fitting a dress -- but she was so nice in her response!

Anyway, I was aimlessly wandering the blogosphere when I hit up Elizabeth Dye's archives -- let's all enjoy this visit, yes?

This skirt.

This incredible dress transformation, before and after.

Store goods in The English Dept. (in 2008, alas).

This lovely fairy dress.

Just straight up cuteness.

And this wedding inspiration board, based on the image below at Coco + Kelley.

(okay, not a dress, but what a lovely image, yes?)

Sometimes, you just know

2010-06-30T22:02:00.000-05:00

....that something Bigger is out there. The sky has just been
breathtaking this week -- below is Monday, with the fierce clouds, and
Tuesday, where I saw the reflection of a rainbow! Tonight was the most
beautiful of all -- but alas, phone cam + driving on a highway is not
the best combo, so you'll have to trust me on today's clouds.

Shop Love {Steve Madden}

2010-06-29T08:17:00.006-05:00

Why yes, Steve Madden, I will take all of these, please!

florale

Billee

MaggyMay

Topazz

I so love a good shoe. le sigh.

PS: can anyone recommend a classic, professional black bag? I'm looking for something like a tote to travel with, but something respectable looking. Is that too much to ask for? Thanks kids!

Happy Monday! {flickr finds}

2010-06-28T06:56:00.000-05:00

raveneye

I love this early hour! The sun is just breaking the horizon -- cheers to a beautiful Monday everyone!

Shereen M

Dia

Viburnum

le soupir.

2010-06-27T13:27:00.003-05:00

Vegas was fantastic. For anyone going soon, the Harrah's properties have a 24-hour pass good at all their locations -- no, their buffets aren't open 24 hours, and yes, how to manage such a feat is tricky. But mmm, guilt-free desserts! That is, eating an entire plateful of desserts for your "buffet," because truly, that is a lot of buffet food in 24 hours!

But, this will be me this week:

Stanley Chow Illustration & Design

via artisancakecompany

This is my last week of crazy what-was-I-thinking-booking-so-many-trips-in-30-days'-span work. So, lots of this, too:

Cooking Books via justbesplendid

And hopefully this, too (that is, me absorbing what I'm reading, magically):

via justbesplendid

Everyone have a fabulous week! When I'm ready to procrastinate again, I'll share some pics of some fabulous displays and interior design that I snapped in Vegas (ooh, suspense!)

Style Circle: Mmmm, Chocolate

2010-06-26T10:23:00.000-05:00

Yup, I fell into Style Circle again. Really, there are sooo many pretties...

credits {here}

Friday Love {Cliff Mautner Photography}

2010-06-25T11:51:00.001-05:00

Dress Details {Wallis Weddings Photography}

2010-06-24T11:46:00.000-05:00

Wallis Weddings Photography via Heidi Elnora

Vegas, baby! {more etsy finds!}

2010-06-22T08:28:00.003-05:00

We're heading to Vegas tonight, double woot! And cheers to curating my first Etsy treasury! When I get my skills up, I'm definitely heading over to Lovely Clusters and trying my hand there!

Send lots of lucky thoughts my way, kids ;) -- credits for the lovelies below, here!

Happy Monday! {etsy finds}

2010-06-21T08:29:00.003-05:00

My oh my, if only I were drowning in flowers and not work! Here's to wishing everyone a fabulous (and productive!) Monday!

Love is blossoming, curated by Tansyandco

Row 1: gallogirlphotos, hiyapapaya, NatureMandalas, gallogirlphotos
Row 2: irenesuchocki, urbandesign, shannonpix, zuppaartista
Row 3: MarcoLaGrenouille, kristybee, Shartreuse, irenesuchocki
Row 4: MarcoLaGrenouille, hiyapapaya, flandersfield, dahliahousestudio

The Dailies

2010-06-20T14:10:00.059-05:00

These are only from the last half of this past week. I'd say that there are way too many pretties out there, but since when is that an actual problem ;)?

Row 1: Susan Dean Photography, Flower Wild florals feat. on SMP
Row 2: via Belle Maison; Lovely Clusters feat. Corrie Bond; design*sponge feat. Jessica Helgerson; Lovely Clusters feat. slumberingheart

Column 1: 工字背心 via Creature Comforts; dress, design & decor feat. The Home Within Us; via a la mode
Column 2: via a la mode; via The City Sage

Row 1: via Lanalou Style; (last 2) Cynthia Vardan via design*sponge
Row 2: Wendi Young on desiretoinspire;

Pink balloons and this Petal Pink and Spray Blue mood board on Creature Comforts.
This fantastically real + love-filled post by Lara Casey.
These vibrant aquamarines + lavender fuschias on decor8.
Neutral homescapes which are anything but bland, feat. on Lavender and Lillies.
All of these mood boards for a client's soiree in NOLA, by ilovelolliblog.
Rachel Follett's lovely photography-to-sketch, and others.

So much to procrastinate with, so little time

2010-06-20T11:59:00.001-05:00

Cheeries for the office girls, bc we're all so swamped. And extra cheeries for one who's had some legit drama this weekend. Guys are so silly sometimes.

Happy Father's Day!

2010-06-20T01:00:00.002-05:00

Happy Father's Day to all the men who have stood + stand behind and beside us as we were growing up and as we still do!

And Lindsey, you're a genius -- I love this Bacon Caramel Brownie idea! I tracked down the gorgeous images above + below to Savour Fare, and I'm not sure what recipe the author of Great Full Day is using, but I'm hoping to knock this one out soon! Thank you *both* ladies for this fabulousness -- here's to hoping everyone's Father's Day is as great as I think this recipe will be...