tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-81604103000191109852024-02-07T01:21:42.777-08:00Onward CreativityErinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01473105141318681331noreply@blogger.comBlogger297125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8160410300019110985.post-34001929096752590532012-02-08T14:47:00.000-08:002012-02-08T14:49:03.204-08:00Drink your veggies!Hey, blogland! <br />
<br />
I'm back and, dare I say, better than ever! I say so because during this almost-one-month hiatus from my blog I have been nurturing some new and positive daily habits. I will start posting about these new aspects of my life as the days go on. :) I'm happy to be blogging again and reconnecting with my creative spirit. In the few weeks I've been MIA, I can feel a difference, and it aint pretty! My creative side needs an outlet, and this is the place I've come to know and love. <br />
<br />
One new thing I've been doing to nurture my body is drinking yummy green smoothies, eating green salads daily, and indulging in lots of healthy teas. My skin is thanking me! <br />
<br />
<img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7023/6843415365_1e4760f70d_z.jpg" /><br />
<img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7164/6843329399_4262092461_z.jpg" /><br />
<img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7010/6843413627_2bbfa7eed2_z.jpg" /><br />
<img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7007/6843386519_4d47d52be5_z.jpg" /><br />
<br />
<br />
*Erin's Green Glow Smoothie*<br />
*1-2 big handfuls of spinach leaves<br />
*1 full banana<br />
*1/2 avacado<br />
*handful of blueberries<br />
*handfull of raspberries<br />
*2 scoops of plain yogurt<br />
*drizzle of honey<br />
*1 spoonful of maca powder<br />
*sprinkling of flax seeds<br />
*splash of soy milk<br />
*big sprinkle of self love!<br />
<br />
YUM!Erinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01473105141318681331noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8160410300019110985.post-43900265269323249922012-01-19T09:30:00.000-08:002012-01-19T09:30:12.538-08:00Life Updates!Ugh...I'm not proud of my blog absence as of late! This little corner of the web is so important to me because it is an outlet where I can express myself, release things from the corners of my mind, and gather my thoughts. I hope that it can be inspirational and interesting to others, too. <br />
<br />
I usually blog at work on my lunches or breaks, because my computer at home has some <em>issues</em>. Lately, though, work has been so busy that I don't have a moment to breathe. I feel my creativity tangling up inside as a result of not regularly blogging. <br />
<br />
This has to stop! I will find a way. :)<br />
<br />
As I get back into my bloggin' flow, here are some moments of life lately, in pictures:<br />
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<img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7167/6726348291_907e96c366_z.jpg" /><br />
<img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7028/6726349455_cb2ed45cf1_z.jpg" /><br />
<img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7149/6726350755_d90d5f8244_z.jpg" /><br />
<img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7148/6726352105_10922c2aaf_z.jpg" /><br />
<img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7150/6726354027_b429698b36_z.jpg" /><br />
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<img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7169/6726361653_372f3a0854_z.jpg" /><br />
<img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7159/6726363407_e4da403c40_z.jpg" />Erinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01473105141318681331noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8160410300019110985.post-46365463614920324602012-01-09T16:10:00.000-08:002012-01-09T16:10:45.098-08:00Busy bee alert!Sorry to be MIA from the blog...but...I am extremely busy right now in life. I will update ASAP! I miss you, blogland!! : *(Erinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01473105141318681331noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8160410300019110985.post-7518553403171738622012-01-04T10:21:00.000-08:002012-01-04T10:21:04.036-08:00New hair color for a new year!<img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7016/6635629349_2dae188e9d.jpg" /><br />
<br />
I'm getting in touch with my dark side (in a great way!) as I enter this new year. I am really excited about new beginnings. I feel so ready to shed some outworn layers I've been dragging around and putting on a new, fresh and funky coat! Themes for the new year include thinking outside the box and well, WINNING!<br />
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<img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7016/6635650667_b493d77eac_z.jpg" /><br />
<img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7011/6635644137_3de49453c0.jpg" />Erinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01473105141318681331noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8160410300019110985.post-21147721106544915252011-12-30T12:36:00.000-08:002011-12-30T12:36:40.075-08:00Bring it, 2012.I started writing out a little rough draft for my generic "New Years!!!" post, and even filled a whole page with inspirational musings and reflections on what I learned in 2011. I got super into my thoughts and introspective. In honor of my resolutions for 2012, however, I decided to tear up my analysis and throw it in the trash!<br />
<br />
I want to be free in 2012! I simply want to live each day to the fullest and do the things that nurture who I am at my core.<br />
<br />
This means MORE:<br />
reading<br />
loving<br />
giving<br />
receiving<br />
learning<br />
moving<br />
dancing<br />
singing<br />
laughing<br />
creating<br />
<br />
This simply means more of what makes me smile and less of what crinkles my brow into a worried face. Life is so short and I am so incredibly lucky to be a healthy young woman with dreams in my heart, so I intend to forge ahead and live the life I have imagined in 2012. The no crinkle face part also implies that I won't care so much about what anyone else thinks or understands about me, and WILL care about what I think and understand.<br />
<br />
I'll leave this last post of 2011 with an adorable duet from two of my most favorite people, Zooey and Joey. I'm in love with this video and these two. Simply in love!!<br />
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/aSq1cez_flQ" width="420"></iframe>Erinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01473105141318681331noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8160410300019110985.post-83183919960503708452011-12-29T12:24:00.001-08:002011-12-29T12:24:40.423-08:00Life...<img src=http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7014/6595726483_a95292bd4b_z.jpg><br />
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Life is sweet!Erinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01473105141318681331noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8160410300019110985.post-44312093248304842222011-12-28T15:02:00.000-08:002011-12-28T15:02:31.544-08:00Pinspiration- Flower Power!<img src="http://farm7.staticflickr.com/6058/6326745893_77a5e8efd8_z.jpg" /><br />
<br />
In keeping with the flowery theme of the day...<br />
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<img src="http://media-cdn.pinterest.com/upload/266345765432033258_EkNwwOY7_c.jpg" /><br />
<br />
(via <a href="http://www.wherethelovelythingsare.com/home/blog-girls-on-floral.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+wherethelovelythingsare%2FvuEK+%28where+the+lovely+things+are%29" target="_blank"><strong><span style="color: #8c7e7e;">wherethelovelythingsare.com</span></strong></a> )<br />
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<img src="http://media-cdn.pinterest.com/upload/252834966549835647_BrFdkRtC_c.jpg" /><br />
<br />
(source uknown)<br />
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<img src="http://media-cdn.pinterest.com/upload/266345765432068192_wU0q7puj_c.jpg" /><br />
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(source unknown)<br />
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<img src="http://media-cdn.pinterest.com/upload/266345765432043050_UImByEgC_c.jpg" /><br />
<br />
(source <a href="http://innerimagination.tumblr.com/post/10640369993/everything-inspirin6-click-here-for-more" target="_blank"><strong><span style="color: #8c7e7e;">innerimagination.tumblr.com</span></strong></a>)<br />
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<img src="http://media-cdn.pinterest.com/upload/266345765432043046_UksaN9jp_c.jpg" /><br />
<br />
(source <a href="http://thedreamerandthedrifter.tumblr.com/" target="_blank"><strong><span style="color: #8c7e7e;">thedreamerandthedrifter.tumblr.com</span></strong></a>)Erinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01473105141318681331noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8160410300019110985.post-9144778393259159632011-12-28T10:35:00.000-08:002011-12-28T10:35:06.675-08:00DIY: Flower Headdress<img src="http://farm7.staticflickr.com/6048/6384622879_e24d108a14_z.jpg" /><br />
<br />
In preparation for my "year of the festival," I am starting to prepare my free spirited wardrobe and creating some fun statement pieces! The trippy flower children of the sixties are the inspiration for this hippied out DIY. I truly can't wait to lay in the grass with my flower crown and soak in some tunes underneath the summer sun. <br />
<br />
<u>What you will need:</u><br />
*hot glue gun/glue sticks<br />
*plastic flowers <br />
*scrap fabric<br />
*coated wire (you can find this at any craft store)<br />
*scissors<br />
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<img src="http://farm7.staticflickr.com/6214/6384719731_d18472fed0_z.jpg" /><br />
<img src="http://farm7.staticflickr.com/6225/6384705813_eb7afb8791_z.jpg" /><br />
<img src="http://farm7.staticflickr.com/6093/6384699855_47e4402214_z.jpg" /><br />
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Wrap the wire around your head to get an idea of how much you will need, and create your crown by twisting the wire together to form a circle. It helps to make the circle a little bigger than you think you will need, as the flowers and fabric can make your finished product tighter fitting than expected. <br />
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Pick the flowers off their stems (they should pop right off!) and glue them in your desired pattern around the outside of the wire crown. <br />
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<img src="http://farm7.staticflickr.com/6060/6384618731_5ebf8f5f4d_z.jpg" /><br />
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Next, cut a scrap of fabric to line the inside of the crown. Simply secure this fabric with hot glue. This will cover up the hot glue spots and provide a smooth surface to rest against your hair.<br />
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<img src="http://farm7.staticflickr.com/6034/6384613699_99ac42c8fa_z.jpg" /><br />
<img src="http://farm7.staticflickr.com/6043/6384607631_765ed9bd5d_z.jpg" /><br />
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Your flower headdress is complete!! Wear your crown wherever you please and relish in the peaceful energy of a flower child.<br />
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<img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7012/6588576521_2615916eaa_z.jpg" /><br />
<img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7028/6588608049_7b88054ea0_z.jpg" />Erinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01473105141318681331noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8160410300019110985.post-85484203128439247972011-12-27T14:56:00.000-08:002011-12-27T14:56:10.323-08:00Bits n Pieces: Christmas weekend.I stayed in San Diego this Christmas, and while I missed my family dearly, I had a great time with my little family of friends I've created here. :) I felt very blessed! <br />
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<img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7147/6583252209_9b6a3863b6_z.jpg" /><br />
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<img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7002/6583278367_7b6ac7c940_z.jpg" /><br />
<img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7144/6583285419_9058e30051_z.jpg" /><br />
<img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7001/6583384081_65d1881a88_z.jpg" /><br />
<img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7022/6583373345_bdbe7e1f5e_z.jpg" /><br />
<img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7024/6583410579_3d54b72103_z.jpg" /><br />
<img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7031/6583425407_474be21059_z.jpg" /><br />
<img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7025/6583402147_fba3688190_z.jpg" />Erinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01473105141318681331noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8160410300019110985.post-37211310019033261582011-12-23T15:40:00.000-08:002011-12-23T15:40:44.033-08:00What's missing this Christmas.<b>Losing my dad is such a tricky thing. </b><br />
<br />
<b>I go through spouts of emotional amnesia. Times when my soul feels lighter and the thought of my dad doesn't make the depths inside ache so much. I think of him, miss him, and find some sort of peace with that. I carry him around with me like a comforting blanket, and it actually feels nice.</b><br />
<br />
<b>And then, just as suddenly as the lightness came, it is gone unexplicably. Tears well up out of nowhere. As I am reading some story, or hearing some tune, or witnessing some seemingly insignificant interaction. The tears are there, and then comes the memories. The stories I've told myself over and over. The feelings I felt were gone- they come back. </b><br />
<br />
<strong>I will miss my dad this Christmas. </strong><br />
<br />
<strong>One of those familiar memories cropped up today and it was accompanied with welling tears. It was towards the end of my dad's life, unbeknownst to me at the time, and I sat with my dad in an empty lobby. He sat close to me in a wheelchair, unable to truly communicate. The distance between us was unbearable. We may have been physically close, but his awareness was miles away. His soul was close, but his mind was far away. I tried to communicate my feelings to him. How sorry I was for everything, how much I forgave him for anything he still felt guilt about, how much I wanted him to let go of that guilt. </strong><br />
<br />
<strong>I needed reassurance that it was ok that I lived miles away in California. I wanted him to tell me what I already knew, that he would want this for me. If he was more aware, he would certainly want me to live out my dreams. I wanted reassurance that he just wasn't able to give me.</strong><br />
<br />
<strong> I spilled out my heart, and he didn't understand. He just couldn't. And that, that, was the worst. That distance. That inability to be heard. It still plays out in my life over and over, and I want to let it go. That familiar aching. </strong><br />
<br />
<strong>I have to let it go.</strong><br />
<br />
<strong>This beautiful song hits SO close to home. </strong><br />
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/kPnGYxewQ6Y" width="420"></iframe><br />
<br />
<b>"You will lose someone you can’t live without,<br />
and your heart will be badly broken, <br />
and the bad news is that you never completely get over the loss of your beloved. <br />
But this is also the good news. They live forever in your broken heart that doesn’t seal back up. And you come through. It’s like having a broken leg that never heals perfectly—that still hurts when the weather gets cold, but you learn to dance with the limp." <br />
— Anne Lamott</b>Erinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01473105141318681331noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8160410300019110985.post-71499800418250854322011-12-22T10:38:00.000-08:002011-12-22T10:41:16.285-08:00Photobooth Fun with the iphone.I'm a sucker for photo apps on my iphone. I've tried almost all of them out for a spin! When it comes to good, old fashioned fun, <strong>Photobooth</strong> is the best. The app's aesthetic gives it the appearance of a true old timey photo booth and the photos are just plain fun to take!<br />
<br />
I use this app to entertain my friends and the kids I babysit love playing with it, too. Fun for all!<br />
<br />
(Editor's note: I reviewed this post and realized I used the word "fun" excessively. What can I say? It's the best word to describe the essence of taking photobooth pictures!)<br />
<br />
<img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7031/6554921069_b18f017a24_z.jpg" /><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7024/6554935391_a1909b61b6_z.jpg" /><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7152/6554987039_1edf445554_z.jpg" /><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7025/6554955651_1a88525d74_z.jpg" /><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7032/6555099099_d70886bbf3_z.jpg" /><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7012/6555188931_ce214abc20_z.jpg" />Erinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01473105141318681331noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8160410300019110985.post-51755703528273456022011-12-21T12:46:00.000-08:002011-12-21T12:52:48.872-08:00Aromatherapy for Creativity.As we lead a creative life, we inevidibly hit road blocks where we lose our inspiration, motiviation, and creative drive. This can be incredibly frustrating, especially if our job depends on continued creativity. For a quick and powerful boost, we can look no further than our face! Specifically, our nose.<br />
<br />
Our sense of smell is incredibly powerful. The practice of aromatherapy has been proven to ease depression, lift mood, enhance concentration, and stimulate creativity! Just one sniff of the correct essential oil can get you flowing in the right direction.<br />
<br />
Essential oils for creativity:<br />
<br />
1. Peppermint<br />
<img src="http://media-cdn.pinterest.com/upload/204632376788162571_HoFk277v_c.jpg" /><br />
2. Cypress<br />
<img src="http://media-cdn.pinterest.com/upload/40954677830889075_3B6zA5O5_c.jpg" /><br />
3. Lemon<br />
<img src="http://media-cdn.pinterest.com/upload/148618856422722002_u9WZxIJt_c.jpg" /><br />
4. Rosemary<br />
<img src="http://media-cdn.pinterest.com/upload/257831147386497415_Gh437YEf_c.jpg" /><br />
5. Ylang Ylang<br />
<img src="http://media-cdn.pinterest.com/upload/89227636336805022_ptYQbf4U_c.jpg" /><br />
<br />
Sniff, sniff! :)<br />
<br />
(images sourced from Pinterest, origin unknown.)Erinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01473105141318681331noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8160410300019110985.post-32181602843980273132011-12-21T09:18:00.000-08:002011-12-21T09:31:07.218-08:00Decorating Reginald (my Christmas tree.)I wanted to get really crafty with my Christmas decorating this year, so decided to make my own festive ornaments! My roomie and I decided to name our Christmas tree Reginald, Reg for short, and here is what he's wearing!<br />
<br />
*Tree topper- a floral headpiece that I made (DIY to come shortly.) We decided it looked lovely on top of Reg. We also wrapped his top branch with sparkly gold ribbon. I personally think it looks like it could be in the window of an Anthropology display! (Maybe I'm getting a little over confident with my tree decorating?)<br />
<br />
*Garland- I found this amazing glittery ribbon at JoAnne's craft store. It is super, super glittery, but doesn't shed glitter everywhere! Truly amazing. I got the ribbon in several colors- bright blue, gold, silver, white, and pink.<br />
<br />
*Ornaments- I purchased a ton of plain wooden ornaments in star and circle shapes. I covered some ornaments completely in colorful sequins, and others using mod podge and patterned craft paper. I wanted an alternative look, not the traditional red and green. I love Reggie's color scheme!<br />
<br />
*Extras- I also found some bright blue snow flakes in the $1 bin at JoAnne's craft store. And, of course, no tree is compete without lots of colorful (or white- your choice!) lights!<br />
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<img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7029/6460778675_72fc3a5ace_z.jpg" /><br />
<img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7012/6460774205_0e0bfba236_z.jpg" /><br />
<br />
(Sorry for the blurry pics! Not cool.)<br />
<br />
I am truly comforted when I walk in my apartment and see Reginald's beautiful decorations! I've had such a wonderful holiday season this year. :)<br />
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How do you decorate YOUR tree?Erinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01473105141318681331noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8160410300019110985.post-85313498095652355602011-12-20T13:31:00.000-08:002011-12-20T13:31:25.162-08:00Pinspiration- "Year of the Festival"<img src="http://farm7.staticflickr.com/6058/6326745893_77a5e8efd8_z.jpg" /><br />
<br />
As I stated previously on the blog, I am gearing up for 2012 to be "The Year of the Festival!" I plan on going to as many music festivals as I can- namely South by Southwest and Coachella. Also gunning for Bonnaroo, Outside Lands, and Burning Man. Plane tickets are BOOKED for Austin, TX for SXSW already!<br />
<br />
Pinterest provides some wonderful glimpses into good ole festival life. Take me there...<br />
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<img src="http://media-cdn.pinterest.com/upload/261349584595330848_6Zji3HFQ_c.jpg" /><br />
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(from <a href="http://runoverand.tumblr.com/" target="_blank"><strong><span style="color: #8c7e7e;">runoverand.tumblr.com</span></strong></a>)<br />
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<img src="http://media-cdn.pinterest.com/upload/266345765432039984_reY3vVAo_c.jpg" /><br />
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(from <a href="http://susieelmajian.tumblr.com/post/10588521418" target="_blank"><strong><span style="color: #8c7e7e;">susieelmajian.tumblr.com</span></strong></a>)<br />
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<img src="http://media-cdn.pinterest.com/upload/266345765432039645_m6lIm57P_c.jpg" /><br />
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(from <a href="http://lilydelphine.tumblr.com/" target="_blank"><strong><span style="color: #8c7e7e;">lilydelphine.tumblr.com</span></strong></a>)<br />
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<img src="http://media-cdn.pinterest.com/upload/266345765432039766_gQEnBSEI_c.jpg" /><br />
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(from <a href="http://weheartit.com/entry/14398814" target="_blank"><strong><span style="color: #8c7e7e;">weheartit.com</span></strong></a>)<br />
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<img src="http://media-cdn.pinterest.com/upload/41165784063425408_bqscsRau_c.jpg" /><br />
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(source unknown)<br />
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<img src="http://media-cdn.pinterest.com/upload/149463281352853321_DIO81Ve4_c.jpg" /><br />
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(via <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIC2u-VEzkymHFPs77RMTf_LRyt4329fFdXQMnKtu-lCOFIgj2A5boxnbF-Rimju4rXLjR7gA1Xq8P4lbMVNCRupXselKgV__F6j6NdcQGv-1_QxgppvBaGcn3ctZM3GjzDi46aoVLIW7y/s1600/IMG_5584.jpg" target="_blank"><strong><span style="color: #8c7e7e;">1.bp.blogspot.com</span></strong></a>)Erinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01473105141318681331noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8160410300019110985.post-38257267837719101352011-12-20T09:54:00.000-08:002011-12-20T09:54:47.027-08:00Street ArtI like street art. I like taking pictures. <br />
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<img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7012/6420497615_436280ef12_z.jpg" /><br />
<img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7028/6420505683_55bf5d63f9_z.jpg" /><br />
<img src="http://farm5.staticflickr.com/4133/5162530545_ca64600404_z.jpg" /><br />
<img src="http://farm5.staticflickr.com/4147/5177027197_4a26b2f423_z.jpg" /><br />
<img src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5210/5247676785_de5f9de819_z.jpg" /><br />
<img src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5296/5527692221_75ba8dc61c_z.jpg" /><br />
<img src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5214/5527691571_272d3788fb_z.jpg" /><br />
<img src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5056/5527699395_bafb50175c_z.jpg" /><br />
<img src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5217/5527698355_b1b8534894_z.jpg" /><br />
<img src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5173/5527696181_f868bf4b2c_z.jpg" /><br />
<img src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5176/5527696583_4588a26d7d_z.jpg" /><br />
<img src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5179/5527775869_7e695dc4e2_z.jpg" />Erinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01473105141318681331noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8160410300019110985.post-19342034321513443992011-12-19T10:25:00.000-08:002011-12-19T10:25:05.544-08:00Hiking Sundays!My friends and I have recently formed a hiking group. We created a Facebook group and plan a different hike every Sunday. <em>There are some amazing spots to hike around San Diego!</em><br />
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We also use the group as an outlet to find workout buddies throughout the week, share our fitness goals and achievements, and inspire each other to live a healthy lifestyle. It feels really good to connect with people in a positive and healthy way.<br />
<br />
And, of course, we also enjoy doing phoootoo shoots!<br />
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<img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7009/6538553947_a3f992b78f_z.jpg" /><br />
<img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7160/6538621251_b69a131550_z.jpg" /><br />
<img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7172/6538619529_20fb43b227_z.jpg" />Erinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01473105141318681331noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8160410300019110985.post-54513708808236897862011-12-19T10:00:00.000-08:002011-12-19T10:08:47.722-08:00Twenty Things.<img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7169/6419692795_4677e588fe_z.jpg" /><br />
<br />
1. Seaside hikes with good friends.<br />
<img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7157/6538501479_74fdcd7248_z.jpg" /><br />
2. Christmas lights.<br />
3. Swimming in the ocean.<br />
4. Jack Johnson.<br />
5. Seasonal beers.<br />
<img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7006/6538556887_08099d1d11_z.jpg" /><br />
6. Hummus.<br />
7. Conversations with five year olds. I asked the little girl I babysit what she wanted to be when she grows up. Her response, "cupcake taster."<br />
8. Swinging on swingsets.<br />
9. Seein celebrities in real life.<br />
10. Starbucks gift cards for presents and buying holiday drinks!<br />
<img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7029/6538755875_206d1f41ec.jpg" /><br />
11. Holding hands.<br />
12. The Carpenter's Christmas album (makes me think of my mom playing it all season long!)<br />
13. Cowboy boots.<br />
14. Sending encouraging e-cards to friends. (ha!)<br />
<img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7156/6538565189_364acbc104.jpg" /><br />
15. Yoga.<br />
16. Morning runs.<br />
17. Fun farewell letters from friends.<br />
<img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7151/6538561319_475e1dff46_z.jpg" /><br />
18. White wine.<br />
19. Inspirational art. (via Pinterest, source unknown.)<br />
<img src="http://media-cdn.pinterest.com/upload/17099673554851134_sdcy8UVT_c.jpg" /><br />
20. The Head and the Heart. I am currently obsessed with all of their music. Genius.<br />
<img src="http://media-cdn.pinterest.com/upload/286541595010966437_QRHNIE7r_c.jpg" />Erinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01473105141318681331noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8160410300019110985.post-43024666153595317512011-12-16T10:42:00.000-08:002011-12-16T10:42:48.955-08:00Etsy Finds: Violet Bella<img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6049/6336047764_2e78372ed1_z.jpg" /><br />
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Laura at <a href="http://www.violetbellasworld.blogspot.com/">Violet Bella</a> creates one of the coziest havens on the internet. Her blog follows her journey through life's ups and downs and is filled with creativity and soulful insight. I really enjoy her writing and also her whimsical creations! <br />
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Check out her shop on <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/violetbella?ga_search_submit=Search&ga_search_query=violet+bella&ga_view_type=gallery&ga_ship_to=US&ga_search_type=handmade&ga_facet=handmade">Etsy</a>! :)<br />
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<img src="http://img1.etsystatic.com/il_570xN.201587645.jpg" /><br />
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(wing of a bird necklace)<br />
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<img src="http://img3.etsystatic.com/il_570xN.264512211.jpg" /><br />
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(flower power elephant necklace)<br />
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<img src="http://img0.etsystatic.com/il_570xN.254638328.jpg" /><br />
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(guitar charm necklace)<br />
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<img src="http://img0.etsystatic.com/il_570xN.171332568.jpg" /><br />
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(the little chair necklace)<br />
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I love her charming work!Erinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01473105141318681331noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8160410300019110985.post-23340990550842287422011-12-15T15:29:00.000-08:002011-12-15T15:37:31.965-08:00"I'll never not be broken."<em>"I'll never not be broken."</em><br />
<br />
Yes, that sentence is a double negative. Uh huh, it seems a little depressing. It's certainly not perfectly worded or incredibly motivational, but it's the exact thought that fluttered through my mind in a seemingly random moment in time last night. I was thinking about improving myself, as I tend to always do in a crazy attempt to be <em>perfect</em> or to reach some sort of idealistic version of myself. I was thinking of how broken I feel, after losing my dad, losing past loves, and feeling the weight of broken dreams get heavier as time goes on. I was headed down a pretty negative train of thought, but not feeling sad exactly, just observing this innate desire I always have to fix myself. I figure that since I'm so broken now, that surely I will be able to find something to get myself back together.<br />
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Maybe if I meet the right person, or figure out the right work out plan, or unblock myself as an artist and express myself to the fullest- maybe then, I will be "fixed." I apply this thought to everything. It's obsessive. I'm never happy with where I am, constantly looking towards some unknown solution to this epic problem. <br />
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Then, it hit me. I'll never <em>not</em> be broken. My dad will always be missing from my life. I can't possibly achieve everything on my to-do list. If I fix one thing, inevitably something else will need fixing. Every minute of every day, for the rest of my life, I will be imperfect. I won't reach some place where I am a shining vision of perfection, I just won't. No one can.<br />
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<em>This is liberating. Let go of the striving because it is pointless!</em><br />
<br />
<img src="http://media-cdn.pinterest.com/upload/276549233337763243_c8Xo7sbU_c.jpg" /><br />
(source uknown)<br />
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I can barely put into words the ideas I have on this subject. I sit here now, trying to formulate the perfect paragraphs and the pe<span style="background-color: white;">rfect post, </span>yet even that will be imperfect. <br />
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When I was little, my mom told me that no one was perfect, only God. I used to say that a lot- I guess back then I already struggled with wanting perfection. I knew it then, I continue to re-learn the lesson, yet I still struggle with striving.<br />
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I guess this is one of the mysterious joys of the human condition? This post is quite a rambler, thanks for sticking it out if you made it this far. I didn't perfectly express my thoughts on this subject, it isn't as perfectly inspirational as it could be, and there are certainly some run-on sentences thrown in the mix (I'm letting it <em>be!</em>)<br />
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I'll end with some song lyrics from a very fitting Dave Mathew's song, "If I had it all."<br />
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<em>Sometimes I can't move my feet it seems.<br />
As if I'm stuck in the ground somehow like a tree.<br />
As if I can't even breathe.<br />
Oh, and my screams come whispering out.<br />
<br />
As if nobody can even see me.<br />
Like a ghost, sometimes I can't see myself.<br />
Sometimes, then again, oh...<br />
<br />
<strong>If I were a king<br />
If I had everything<br />
If I had you then I could give you your dreams<br />
If I were giant-sized, on top of it all<br />
Then tell me what in the world would I sing for?<br />
If I had it all?</strong></em><br />
<em><strong></strong><br />
Sometimes I feel lost.<br />
As I pull you out like strings of memories.<br />
Wish I could weave them into you<br />
Then I could figure the whole damn puzzle out.<br />
Then again, oh...<br />
<br />
Remembering times much younger than me now<br />
When my breath was light?<br />
When the world raised me up kind?<br />
<br />
And here mother comforts child.<br />
Every moment was waking up<br />
But now I've grown tired out.<br />
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<strong>If I had it all, you know<br />
I'd fuck it up.</strong><br />
<strong>If I were a king<br />
If I had everything, piece by piece.<br />
If I had you, if I could give you your dreams.<br />
If I were giant-sized, on top of it all,<br />
Then tell me what in the world would I go on for<br />
If I had it all?</strong></em><br />
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This world keeps spinning and we keep on growing. We'll never get <em>there</em> (where?) so let's just enjoy the ride right? :)Erinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01473105141318681331noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8160410300019110985.post-37482005068463767102011-12-15T11:07:00.000-08:002011-12-15T11:07:54.493-08:00A letter to little me.<img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7145/6516586315_fcb4c09058_z.jpg" /><br />
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Dear younger self,<br />
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First and foremost, don't worry. <em>Seriously</em>, stop worrying. You have nothing to worry about as a child, enjoy this! This is your time to shine and be free. Creating a pattern of worry at your age will make it an ingrained habit, and hard to break as you get older. Realize that you are surrounded with a family that loves you, with friends that ask you to play outside daily, with pets to play with, and with teachers that think you are bright. Be thankful for all that you have, not everyone gets these chances as a kid.<br />
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Enjoy your free time. Run, run, run. Lay in the grass. Draw even more and show your drawings off. Enter contests. Nourish your art. Listen to adults when they tell you that you are special. Start believing in yourself <em>now</em>. You know you are amazing!<br />
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Don't worry if a boy doesn't like you back. You are <em>young</em>. Boys will pretend they don't like you when they do, they are <em>young</em>. You have all the time in the world to experience romance, and you will. You will have good boyfriends in your life and you will have special kisses. Don't stress out if you feel all alone, this feeling is part of growing up. Please don't let young love crush you, because it can. Stay strong and keep believing in your worth. You deserve a fantastic love story. <em>Always remember this.</em><br />
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Be kind to your parents. Even though it doesn't seem like it now, they are real people with real problems. They certainly aren't perfect but they are amazing parents. You will grow up and realize how special they really are. Don't take your time with them for granted. It is harsh, but true, that they won't always be there. Show them how much you love them as much as you can, while you can.<br />
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Stop making fun of your brother. He is a late bloomer and will find his shine later in life. The time he spends in his room now is time spent cultivating a very strong character. He is intelligent, witty, and kind. Enjoy your time with him, he will always be your closest friend. He is the only one who knows what it's like to grow up in your household. When you move away and have a house of your own, you will realize how special this is. <br />
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You have a wonderful life ahead of you and I'm happy to say that you will see a lot of your dreams come true. Realize the power of your dreams! By dreaming even more, believing even more, and loving even more, even more of your unspoken dreams can come to life. You have the power to create the life you want to live. Use all of the imagination you have, love yourself to the fullest, and don't hold back. <br />
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Believe in the impossible and don't let anyone tell you any different.<br />
<br />
With deep love,<br />
older self :)Erinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01473105141318681331noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8160410300019110985.post-49153722988756676182011-12-14T15:34:00.000-08:002011-12-14T16:08:59.997-08:00The Breeze<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/7PO_-E4_BO8" width="420"></iframe><br />
<br />
(This is an amazing song!)<br />
<br />
"The Breeze" -by Dr. Dog<br />
<br />
Are you moving much too fast?<br />
And the good times, they just don't last.<br />
If you're always on the go<br />
Make an angel in the snow<br />
And freeze.<br />
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Do you feel like you're stuck in time?<br />
Forever waiting on that line?<br />
If nothing ever moves <br />
Put that needle to the groove<br />
And sing.<br />
<br />
Is it a dream<br />
Keeping you awake?<br />
Is it the stillness that makes you shake?<br />
If you need to know for sure <br />
What's on the ocean's floor<br />
You'll sink.<br />
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Do you like things the way they seem?<br />
Or are you looking behind the scenes?<br />
Well if you gotta know<br />
What it takes to make it so<br />
Just believe.<br />
<br />
Are there dark parts to your mind?<br />
Hidden secrets left behind<br />
Where no one ever goes?<br />
Everybody knows<br />
It's alright.<br />
<br />
Do you get dizzy<br />
On the ground?<br />
There must be something<br />
Going around.<br />
What blows us here today<br />
Will blow us all away.<br />
<br />
The breeze <br />
Will blow us all away.Erinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01473105141318681331noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8160410300019110985.post-71265115774008979432011-12-14T09:40:00.000-08:002011-12-14T09:40:26.549-08:00Encouraging innate creativity.One of the kids I babysit <em>loves</em> art. She is so creative and imaginative. She creates little books, drawings, and creatures on a nonstop basis. She reminds me so much of myself when I was her age.<br />
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I believe strongly in nurturing childrens' innate creativity. We all come into the world with a desire to play, create, imagine...and somewhere along the way we're made to feel that these things aren't important. Math, science, grammar...these are held with higher regard than art. <br />
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Math and science are extremely important, but they're not for everyone. Some people are born to be artists. They have a drive to create that supersedes everything else. Art is their passion and their purpose. This should be celebrated! How wonderful that a child knows at a young age what they love to do? Let's not diminish the power of a child's innate creativity, let's do all that we can do help it bloom!<br />
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<div class="q1"><em>"If children grew up according to early indications, we should have nothing but geniuses." - Johann Wolfgang Von Goethe</em> </div><br />
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<img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7161/6506020071_6f06763c34_z.jpg" /><br />
<img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7035/6506039187_3f92f87d2d_z.jpg" /><br />
<br />
(I brought oil pastels the last time I babysat. The little artist knew I was bringing them and her mom told me it was all she talked about all week. As soon as she saw the pastels she ripped them open and immediately put pastel to paper. Creativity!)Erinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01473105141318681331noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8160410300019110985.post-10414688456711122872011-12-13T16:21:00.000-08:002011-12-13T16:21:12.215-08:00Pinspiration- workin' on ma fitness!<img src="http://farm7.staticflickr.com/6058/6326745893_77a5e8efd8_z.jpg" /><br />
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Ok, ok...so it's somewhat counterproductive to sit on my bootay and search Pinterest for fitness inspiration. These images and ideas will only mean something if I put them into action. I am proud to say that I've been pretty steady on my fitness train lately, working out on average 4-5 times per week. <br />
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I think it's extremely important to be honest about what time of day you have the most energy, and plan your work out around that. Don't try to force yourself to work out at a time that doesn't feel right for you. I am a natural morning person. The bright sun, the chirping birds...the world is my oyster! By noon, my sunny outlook has somewhat faded. <br />
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Getting physical in the morning and rewarding myself with a sticker system (30 stickers = a massage) has done wonders in my world lately! Here are some motivational images and ideas to keep you on the right track.<br />
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<img height="400px" src="http://media-cdn.pinterest.com/upload/266345765432073732_xXBhrIM6_c.jpg" width="317px" /><br />
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(right on, gwyneth! source unknown)<br />
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<img src="http://media-cdn.pinterest.com/upload/266345765432065213_rPNAY7QZ_c.jpg" /><br />
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(from <a href="http://barefootfeet.tumblr.com/post/11626451888" target="_blank"><strong><span style="color: #8c7e7e;">barefootfeet.tumblr.com</span></strong></a>)<br />
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<img src="http://media-cdn.pinterest.com/upload/266345765432065211_TDrGW22A_c.jpg" /><br />
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(source unknown)<br />
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<img src="http://media-cdn.pinterest.com/upload/266345765432061047_2WcZM4NX_c.jpg" /><br />
<br />
(source uknown)<br />
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<img src="http://media-cdn.pinterest.com/upload/266345765432061012_iAq2GRE9_c.jpg" /><br />
<br />
(source uknown)<br />
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What keeps YOU motivated?! What are your health and wellness tricks of the trade? :)Erinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01473105141318681331noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8160410300019110985.post-87734327418709152582011-12-13T10:01:00.000-08:002011-12-13T10:01:41.732-08:00Twenty Things.<img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7169/6419692795_4677e588fe_z.jpg" /><br />
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1. Seeing Jay Z and Kanye in L.A. over the weekend. These guys are legends! Loved it and they put on such a great show.<br />
2. My new tribal print flats. So fun!<br />
<img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7017/6505995793_bc2051ea62_z.jpg" /><br />
3. Rearranging my bedroom furniture. New possibilities!<br />
4. Road trips! (Have I mentioned this one before? It might as well just be listed on every one of my "20 things" lists!)<br />
5. Christmas cards from cute families and friends.<br />
6. My friend Megan's growing belly! Currently her bun in the oven is the size of an avocado.<br />
7. Holiday themed beverages! Jello shots count, right?<br />
<img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7162/6506007377_4aaf5d0715_z.jpg" /><br />
8. Discovering new favorite bands on Pandora.<br />
9. 30 Rock- Liz Lemon is one of my favorite characters ever, hands down.<br />
10. The GIANT beer I drank over the weekend at The Yard House. <br />
<img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7170/6506004307_fa206d6da4_z.jpg" /><br />
11. People from Texas. Whenever I hear that familiar southern drawl it just feels like home!<br />
12. Singing along to my favorite songs, playing air guitar/air banjo. <br />
13. Inspirational reading.<br />
<img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7157/6420229819_413f0af4a6_z.jpg" /><br />
14. Ugly Christmas sweater parties.<br />
<img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7168/6506010955_c1589ed2c6_z.jpg" /><br />
15. My e-mail pen pals. (Ahem, Jen @ <a href="http://holmesinelli.blogspot.com/">Adventures of a Holmesinelli</a>)<br />
16. Getting caught in the rain. The rain can be very refreshing!<br />
17. A hot guy in a nice flannel.<br />
18. The movie "Crazy, Stupid Love." Saw it three times.<br />
19. Holiday work events that include free food.<br />
20. VW vans! This one lives on my street. I love the color.<br />
<img src=http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7009/6505999021_8731a34e1c_z.jpg>Erinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01473105141318681331noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8160410300019110985.post-31619785993944918042011-12-09T11:43:00.000-08:002011-12-09T11:43:25.980-08:00True Love.Two of my favorite boggers, James at <a href="http://bleubirdvintage.typepad.com/">Bleubird Vintage</a> and Elsie at <a href="http://abeautifulmess.typepad.com/my_weblog/">A Beautiful Mess</a>, have both gotten married within the last year. These super creative and lovely ladies both documented the ins and outs of their wedding plans on their respective blogs, which was so much fun to follow leading up to their big days. Their weddings were both beautiful and I admire the kind of love it seems these two couples share. Both of their wedding videos are just precious. <br />
<br />
These weddings totally make me swoon.<br />
<br />
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="225" mozallowfullscreen="" src="http://player.vimeo.com/video/32550391?title=0&byline=0&portrait=0" webkitallowfullscreen="" width="400"></iframe><br />
<a href="http://vimeo.com/32550391">James and Aubrey Sneep Peep</a> from <a href="http://vimeo.com/geoffboothby">Geoff Boothby / Landshark</a> on <a href="http://vimeo.com/">Vimeo</a>.<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="225" mozallowfullscreen="" src="http://player.vimeo.com/video/24546055?title=0&byline=0&portrait=0&color=21b8b8" webkitallowfullscreen="" width="400"></iframe><br />
<a href="http://vimeo.com/24546055">Elsie & Jeremy | May 15th 2011</a> from <a href="http://vimeo.com/user415881">Goodwin Films</a> on <a href="http://vimeo.com/">Vimeo</a>.Erinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01473105141318681331noreply@blogger.com0