Lily Magnolia

We Leave Tomorrow!

2011-10-11T08:59:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow we will be 2 adults getting on a plane. We won't have to tell anyone to sit down. We won't have to beg anyone to take 3 more bites. We can have a drink with an umbrella in it at 9am. And we can hold hands for 5 days straight.
Key West, here we come!

Holy Veggies!

2011-10-06T14:14:00.000-07:00

Because there is snow in the forecast here in Utah, I thought I should harvest what was in the garden. Here is what my dining room table currently looks like!

Any recipe suggestions?

iPhone Summer Pics...

2011-09-27T15:51:00.000-07:00

Here is what my summer looked like from my iPhone's perspective...

Scored clearance pillows and rug for the patio...

Got ready for Lake Powell...

Got to Lake Powell and the houseboat was missing (still had fun though)...

Played with T a lot...

Watched the Zamora's...

Naptime routine...

First carrot...

First Day of preschool...

Bountiful harvest...

It was a great summer here in Utah and now Fall is turning out to be good as well. I have started to get the crafting itch again, so expect to see some posts about projects. I am also excited to be cooking with all of the great food from the garden! What are you looking forward to this fall?

Silver Lake Day Trip...

2011-09-25T14:31:00.000-07:00

The leaves are changing here in Utah so we decided to head up to Silver lake for a hike. It was so nice to spend the day as a family! Here are some pictures from our little adventure.

Move-Eat-Learn...

2011-08-24T11:50:00.000-07:00

MOVE from Rick Mereki on Vimeo.

EAT from Rick Mereki on Vimeo.

LEARN from Rick Mereki on Vimeo.

Goodbye Grandpa Ned..

2011-08-21T10:51:00.000-07:00

My husbands Grandpa Ned passed last night. I have never seen a family be so supportive and gracious to each others feelings. I felt so lucky to be apart of their goodbye's to an amazing man.

Grandpa Ned, I hope that is is what your journey looked like.

It's been a lovely cruise...

Outfit Ideas...

2011-08-02T09:09:00.000-07:00

I have the hardest time figuring out what to wear everyday. I am a very casual girl (jeans and t-shirts everyday) but I aspire for a more polished look. Today I ran across a tumble page called "Life-Love-Laughter" and she had some great outfits posted! I guess she is constructing these outfit boards using a site called "Polyvore".

I think I could wear these outfits! Don't you?

Birthday Gifts (to myself)!

2011-07-28T08:39:00.000-07:00

Yup, that's right I bought myself some gifts this year. I love having design and craft books to gather inspiration from. Soooooooo, I bought myself a stack of them! Here is my b-day loot:

Modern Vintage Style

Design Sponge at Home

Decorate

Pure Style

Quick Baby Knits

Hopefully they will arrive soon!

Stripes!

2011-07-27T07:53:00.000-07:00

I finally got a striped rug for our living room! I think it makes the room totally come together.

Ikea Stockholm Rand $199

D.I.Y. Abstract Art from "Oh Happy Day"

2011-07-22T07:49:00.000-07:00

I think I just found my inspiration for some new bedroom artwork!

Over at "Oh Happy Day" there is a great D.I.Y tutorial on how to create this great look!

Go check it out!

Summer in Seattle!

2011-07-11T11:58:00.000-07:00

Here are some pictures from our latest Seattle trip!

Yay for summer!

Summer Vacation in Utah!

2011-06-16T11:45:00.000-07:00

Most of my family has been here visiting from Seattle! We did a lot of playing in the backyard and ever ventured out into the world a little too! Here are some pictures from the last week.

Tiny Dancer!

2011-06-03T07:25:00.000-07:00

In Need of Some Color...

2011-05-31T13:11:00.000-07:00

The colors in our bedroom feel very blah lately. I have been thinking that there needs to be some purples, blues and greens added. Here are a few inspirational photos I found over at decor8.com

Where do you get your color inspiration from?

iPhone Tuesday....

2011-05-24T07:56:00.000-07:00

I'm still loving my iPhone! And here is more proof!

XOXO

Morfar's Visit!

2011-05-17T12:45:00.000-07:00

My Dad was just here for a visit last week! We had a great time together and I hope he comes back to Utah again soon! Here are some of the pictures from his trip:

XOXO

Happy Birthday Sistor!

2011-05-16T18:22:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday to my sweet little sister, Birgitte!

I hope you have a great day!

XOXO

Swedish Dream House!

2011-05-11T09:43:00.000-07:00

Here is a quick look at my Swedish dream house!

All photos are from Hus&Hem

New Camera Lens!

2011-05-09T10:22:00.000-07:00

James and Lily got me a new camera lens for Mother's Day!

Sony 50mm f/1.8 SAM DT Lens for Sony Alpha Digital SLR Cameras

I really have no idea how to use it correctly, but here are my first photos with it!

Anyone out there have any tips? All I know is that this lens should help me take better pictures in low light/no flash situations.

I hope you all had a great Mother's day as well!

XOXO

Six Years Ago Today...

2011-05-06T12:45:00.000-07:00

Six years ago today, we drove up the canyon and got married. We did it on our own terms. We did it the way we wanted to. And we it was one of the best days of my life!
I love you James! Thank you for a wonderful 6 years!
XOXO

Our Yard...

2011-05-05T14:54:00.000-07:00

Here are a few pictures of our yard...so far!

We have some major plans to add more shade, a play area and a nice patio. But for now we are finally seeing some color pop up. It makes me so happy to have the yard as an extension of our house now that the weather is getting nicer!

iPhone Tuesday....On Wednesday!

2011-05-04T07:15:00.000-07:00

These are a day late, but worth it!

Best friends

After Easter flowers

Snuggling on a rainy day

Sweet babe

Lazy Daddy

Kitty likes Costco day!

Guest Bedroom Inspiration...

2011-05-03T14:04:00.000-07:00

When I read the "House Beautiful, The Power or Pink" issue all I could think of was our sad little guest room. I really think that it needs some pink paint! Here are a few examples of my inspiration!

The magazine that started the obsession!

Via Apartment Therapy

Via the decorologist

Via Casa Cullen

Nothing crazy! Probably just one wall and maybe some pink accents in the room. What do you think?

iPhone Tuesday....

2011-04-26T12:47:00.000-07:00

I finally upgraded my flip phone to an iPhone!! And the best feature it has, are all of the camera options! As you know I love to take photos and this phone lets me branch out a bit from my normal macro-type-photography. I have decided to make Tuesdays the day that I share these photos with you!

Here are the best from this past week!

(last photo from old phone edited on the Iphone)

(Lily's "I love this dinner" face)

(after dinner fun)

(more after dinner fun)

(grandma Jan's birthday)

(cherry blossoms in the back yard)

(rain collector arrived on earth day)

(Luna's new haircut)

(a little Easter mowing)

Do you love taking/editing photos with your smart phone? What apps do you use? I would love to learn about other apps than Intagram and Camera+!!

Thanks Easter Bunny!

2011-04-25T08:50:00.000-07:00

Thank you for sunny weather all the way until naptime!

Thank you for Easter eggs!

Thank you for cute dresses!

Thank you for family time!

And thank you for wearing out toddlers!

We had a great time!

A Girl and Her Dog...

2011-04-18T17:28:00.000-07:00

This is what I found Lily doing when I got out of the shower yesterday!

So sweet!

Easter Decor Inspiration!

2011-04-06T08:29:00.000-07:00

We are having Easter at OUR house this year! I am thinking I want to add a few Easter inspired decorations around the house. Nothing over the top!

I looked around Pinterest this morning and found some cute ideas!

West Elm via BuyModernBaby

West Elm

Via Corea Sotropa

Via Sweet Designs

Via Eighteen Twenty Five

Via Yvestown Blog

Hopefully the weather will be nice so we can have our egg hunt in the backyard!

Playing Hooky...

2011-04-05T12:35:00.000-07:00

I haven't posted in a while. And here is why:

-Finally finished Lily's room (pics not taken yet)

-Finishing basement remodel (not done yet)

-Lily turned 3

-Had an over the top B-day party

-Mom came to town

-We all got the stomach flu

-Started reading cheesy teenage books (LOVE THEM)

-Had a friend come to town and we played hard

-Learned to crochet

Above is a picture of my almost-finished Easter gifts!

XOXO

Three Years Ago...

2011-03-20T11:49:00.000-07:00

My sweet Lily bug was born!

Love you!

Backyard Ideas...

2011-03-16T13:33:00.000-07:00

Ok. Here is my backyard wish list from Ikea.

Two of these chaise lounges at $129.00 each.

With two of these cushions (in white) at $50.00 each.

One of these in between the chairs to set down book sand drinks, for $30.00.

A few of these for $20 each.

And a few of these for $15 each.

The green and white striped umbrella for $15.

And probably a dozen of these for mood lighting at $8 each.

Now if I can just convince my husband that these would be great additions to the backyard and at great prices too!

What are you adding to your backyard this year??

Crazy Kid!

2011-03-11T15:22:00.000-08:00

I tried to take some photos for Lily's birthday invite and this is what I had to work with!

I finally got a winner though!

XOXO

Shout Out!

2011-03-09T15:51:00.000-08:00

I'd like to give a shout out to my big sister, Christiane!

Today is her birthday and I wish I was in Denmark to celebrate with her!

Gotta Love Preschool!

2011-03-06T17:09:00.000-08:00

I was co-oping the other day at lily's preschool and I got this great picture!

I love how happy everyone looks! The sun was shining, the birds were singing and the kids were happy. Gotta love preschool!

I Love Glassy Baby!

2011-03-03T19:32:00.000-08:00

I would like to publicly announce my love for Glassy Baby's! These wonderful little vessels of happiness and hope, make me smile very time I see them.

Take a look at these pictures and tell me they are not cute. I dare you.

If you are ever in need of a gift idea for me. This is what I want.

Color Inspiration...

2011-03-02T11:06:00.000-08:00

I have been transforming Lily's room into a "big girl" room. I am hoping to be done by her 3rd birthday later this month. But who knows. Here is a picture of my color inspiration!

I found it on one of my favorite blogs "House of Turquoise".

Happiness on a Bike!

2011-02-22T07:33:00.000-08:00

I have been dreaming of all things "Spring" lately. So when I saw this video by Danish director Martin De Thurah, I knew I had to share it!

EXPO bicycle city from martin de thurah on Vimeo.

These made me smile today...

2011-02-21T07:22:00.000-08:00

This morning as I read through my favorite blogs I ran across this image.

Not only are these lovely vases (by Dahlhouse) my favorite colors but I LOVE the simple design. I think I want one of each!

Sunny St. George...

2011-02-14T13:22:00.000-08:00

We just got back from a great trip to St. George, UT! It felt so good to be in the warm sun for a few days. Here are some pictures from our southern Utah adventure!

This is what we woke up to everyday! (not too shabby!)

Lily LOVED watching the golfers!

James was working but was close enough to come and play for a few minutes everyday!

Lily was pretty happy to see him!

And she was very happy playing outside.

On Saturday we drove over to Snow Canyon State Park.

They have some really cool sand dunes to play in.

James kinda liked it there!

I think Miss Lily did too!

A big Thank You to Grandma Bonnie for lending us her house!

XOXO

Giddy-up!

2011-02-05T12:28:00.000-08:00

Lily's pre-school had a Valentines dance with a cowboy theme! I had a great time looking for our "western wear" in the local thrift shops! Here are a few pictures from the fun evening.

I think Lily wants us to dress like that everyday!

Did you hear the news?

2011-01-31T11:11:00.000-08:00

H & M has a home goods line! Of course it has only been released in the Europe stores but it's fun to look around their website and get inspiration!

Abstract Paintings by a 3 Year old!

2011-01-27T07:42:00.000-08:00

Yup, she paints too! Lily painted these 5x7 canvases yesterday and I think they are my favorite paintings that she has done so far!

She reminds me everyday to be artistic and playful. Even on days when she boycotts the potty.

Silly kid!

Lily's Photography!

2011-01-25T12:36:00.000-08:00

One of Lily's favorite Christmas presents this year was her own digital camera. Here are some of her masterpieces!

Tree

Pappy

Mormor

Daddy

Horse

Self

Cousin (Mena)

Mommy

Self #2

Still-life (Snack)

I am a very proud Mama!

Oh Alt...I love you!

2011-01-24T12:24:00.000-08:00

I was lucky enough to go to The Alt Summit last Friday. Not only did I learn cool stuff but I made some new friends too!! Yay for me! But now that the party is over I can't stop thinking about all the cool things that I learned. When I ran across a post on Old Sweet Song's blog, I knew that I'm not alone!

Here are her eight steps to get over post-alt summit depression:

Are you feeling this way too?

D.I.Y. Sunburst Mirror!

2011-01-23T09:10:00.000-08:00

I have been wanting a sunburst mirror for a while now but I would really like it to cost less that $50. Then the other day I found this over at Nesting Place!

Cute, huh?

Boden's Idea of Spring...

2011-01-18T14:22:00.000-08:00

I like Boden's idea of spring clothing.

What do you think?

Awesome...

2011-01-13T08:29:00.000-08:00

To me, this space is awesome.

The light, the colors of the painting and the white back ground make my inner designer smile!

Fabric!

2011-01-12T11:51:00.000-08:00

I ran across a great online fabric store today! I am always looking for interesting fabric to make pillows out of. Here are some of my favorites from Tonic Living!!

Now I just have to decide which ones I want to order!

A Couple of Crafty Things...

2011-01-11T15:09:00.000-08:00

After crafting so many holiday gifts for friends and family I thought it was time to make something for my self.

(yes, I know I look tired...the holidays kicked my butt)

I made some Valentine hearts for the windows too!

I also moved around some things in my book case and I think it looks much better.

I hope to do lots more crafting in the new year!!

Stay tuned!

A Seattle Kind of Christmas...

2011-01-03T11:48:00.000-08:00

Here are a few pictures for our Seattle Christmas!

We hope you had a great holiday season!

Mama's Got a New Pair of Shoes!

2010-12-22T13:46:00.000-08:00

We celebrated Christmas with my husbands family the other night. And one of the gifts I received was a pair of these!

And I LOVE them!

If you don't have a pair of TOMS yet then go TODAY and get some.

She Makes Me Smile!

2010-12-13T13:32:00.001-08:00

A Day With The Fishes...

2010-12-07T15:31:00.000-08:00

We went to the Aquarium with Lily's class the other day. Here are some of the pictures!

Lily's New Curtains!

2010-12-02T12:12:00.000-08:00

Lily's room was getting really cold with all of the snow outside.

So, I made her some curtains!

I have a very long "to-do" list for Lily's room. But for now I think the curtains add a good amount of cheerful color!

Scene's from Sun Valley...

2010-11-30T11:48:00.000-08:00

We just got back from Thanksgiving in Sun Valley, Idaho! We had a great time and I thought I could share some photos from the trip with you.

Lily bowled for the first time!

And played her first arcade game!

We went to visit the stables and we were lucky enough to get a free sleigh ride!

Unfortunately, Lily got bit on the finger by one of the draft horses. But I think she will live!

We also relaxed in the pool that they turn up REALLY hot.

We feel so thankful to James' Grandma Bonnie for providing this wonderful trip for us!! We hope you had a great Thanksgiving too!

Merry Merry!

2010-11-23T13:35:00.000-08:00

Yup. I have already decorated the tree. James bought me a beautiful white tree from Amazon last year! I love having the house decorated early!! Have a look!

I am so glad I made the decision to decorate early this year. We are expecting a HUGE storm to roll through Utah later today. I am excited to drink Irish coffee's and stare at the tree later tonight!

Snow Day!

2010-11-21T15:19:00.000-08:00

We woke up this morning to 8 inches of SNOW!!

So of course we got all bundled up and headed outside for some fun!

We love snow days around here!

Especially ones where Lily is happy...

James is home...

And when we have enough snow for a snowman!!

D.I.Y. Wreath!

2010-11-18T09:57:00.000-08:00

I have been seeing these D.I.Y. wreaths online for a few weeks now and I finally decided to make one! It was super easy and a great way to use up the scraps of fabric in my stash!

This one is from a Beautiful Mess.

And this one is from Tabitha Emma.

And here is my version! I'm not sure if this will become a Holiday wreath or a permanent decoration in Lily's room. If you would like to see the tutorial click here!

This Pity Party Rocks!

2010-11-11T11:30:00.000-08:00

Lily and I are having a "Pity Party" today.

We are both home sick with Cold/flu stuff.

We are however having a great time playing with the box of rocks my Mom sent me!!

Last month when my Mom went to Kalaloch I asked her to grab me some rocks for our new house.

And she sent all of these beauties!

Lily and I have been stacking them

and lining them up.

And we are having some great conversations about the beach! Now we are off to nap time. Hopefully our dreams will be full of ocean waves and sunshine!

What to Wear for the Holidays!?!

2010-11-10T09:12:00.000-08:00

Every year I get a little stressed about what to wear for the holidays. I never know if I should go all out and be "dressy" or just be "comfy and casual". I figure a few notches up from my usual jeans and t-shirt is better than nothing.

Here are some cute outfits from Gap that I found this morning.

What do you think? Are any of them screaming "Benny should wear this!"?

Holiday Inspiration!

2010-11-09T08:55:00.000-08:00

With the fresh snow on the ground here in Utah, there is a feeling of the holidays in the air. So, I thought I would share with you a great E-zine that I discovered yesterday!

Gifted is an online magazine created by the writers of Creature Comforts! Gifted is packed with holiday inspiration!

There are great ornament ideas.

D.I.Y. decor ideas

D.I.Y. printables!

Even some great gift ideas!

(hint, hint to my hubby)

You should go check it out!

Who's The Big Winner??

2010-11-08T14:26:00.000-08:00

I am! Hooray for me! I entered a giveaway contest over at Grassroots Modern and won! I never win stuff, so I'm pretty excited!

I won the Caribou in Maple and a set of two trees from Paige Russell!! These are going to look great at Christmas time!

She has some other really great products as well.

Check these out!

And these!

I want to say a big "Thank you!" to both Grassroots Modern and Paige Russell! You made my day!

Adding Some Beach to the Bedroom...

2010-11-08T10:07:00.000-08:00

I went to Ikea yesterday! And I went by myself (which is even better)! I thought I would show you the new addition to the bedroom! I took the photo from a post I did back in October and had James print it at work. The photo is a scan of a 35mm print so it turned out really grainy and blurry, which is perfect!

I bought a Ribba frame at Ikea for $24. And tadda, new artwork!

I feel like our room is finally coming together. It helps to have a photo of my favorite place it the whole world above my bed!

I'm Taking a Poll!!

2010-11-04T14:40:00.000-07:00

Today I am taking a poll to see what you all think is the best dining room lamp for our house.

If I had all the money in the world I would buy a Danish lamp called the ph50 by Poul Henningsen. It retails for about $850, which is $800 too much for me. Here is a picture:

So, here is the space in question:

We have an Ikea table and chairs.

And a danish hutch in the space.

Here are the AFFORDABLE options that I would like you to help me choose from.

Option #1 D.I.Y yarn lamp

Option #2 Ikea flower bust lamp

Option #3 D.I.Y. wooden strip lamp

Please take the poll below to let me know which one you like best for our space!

Cool Lamp Tutorial!

2010-11-03T19:01:00.000-07:00

I have been looking for a cool dining room lamp for weeks! And I think I just hit the jackpot!! Check out this great tutorial over at "Signed by Tina".

Isn't it great?!?

Halloween and all of it's Tricks...

2010-11-01T08:51:00.000-07:00

The tricks were all on me this year! But only in the sense that I thought I wouldn't be this exhausted after celebrating Halloween with a 2 year old.

We had 3 days of Halloween fun and now I am so over it. Bring on Christmas!

Today was a Fun Day!

2010-10-27T12:34:00.000-07:00

We woke to snow today! Lily was so excited about it that she kept saying "Mom, outside...play!" over and over and over!

So I got her all bundled up and we headed out there.

All she wanted to do was eat it though! She stood outside for about 25 mins just eating snow. (and yes, I warned her about the yellow stuff)

Luna, on the other hand, ran so many circles around the table that you can see her tracks! But then she decided that Lily had a good idea...

So they both ate snow!

We also had some of our very favorite people over for a coffee/play date!

My friend Anna brought over her new baby, Axel!

And boy, he is a charmer!

Today has already been a great day! And...now it's nap time which makes it even better!

Cozy fall Weekend!

2010-10-24T13:45:00.000-07:00

We stayed home this weekend!! Here are a few pictures from our cozy fall adventures.

We played outside with Luna.

We tried to get Lily to climb a tree.

Lily thought running around the yard was a better idea.

We painted/carved pumpkins.

The "Artists" hard at work.

The finished product: BOO, Chia (That's what Lily calls kitty's) and Lily says her's is a painting of Mormor.

And the best part is the colors outside our windows just keep getting better and better!

I hope you had a great weekend too!

Fall Colors Outside Our Window...

2010-10-20T09:27:00.000-07:00

I'm not sure if you noticed the leaves in the background of this picture from yesterday...

Well, I did! So, I went outside and captured the colors before the leaves go brown.

I asked James to print some of these pictures so that I can frame them. That way we can enjoy the amazing colors long after the leaves have fallen!

The New House...So Far

2010-10-19T12:48:00.000-07:00

I am FINALLY starting to feel like we actually live in our new house. After months of moving, construction and travel I am seeing the light at the end of the hallway(or tunnel, whichever)!

I made new pillows for the hand-me-down couches we scored from James' Dad!

My birthday chair from James looks great in the corner!

There is enough room in this house that Lily's toys can be somewhere OTHER than the living room!

We just put the curtains up this weekend. And with the chilly nights I have switched over to flannels sheets. My Favorite!

We have a great view of our street from the dining room table.

I scored this hutch from the thrift store for $45! And it's Danish!!

Lily finally has a room to call her own. I have yet to "decorate" it but trust me I have plans for that space!

I have a craft room!!! And I LOVE it!

The laundry room is still under construction. But at least it is functioning and has high enough ceilings (the last one didn't) that James can stand up down there!

Well, that's the house...so far! I hope you like it! I know I do!!

Far Far a Neigh...

2010-10-15T16:03:00.000-07:00

Well that's what Lily says...Far far a Neigh is her way of describing anything princess or horse related. Today we were invited up to "This is the Place" with Lily's cousins. There way a toddler trick-or-treat thing going on, but the kids were more interested in the animals.

I guess we might be going back up there soon. Lily can't stop saying "Mom, where did the Neigh go?" And she has made me show her the pictures from today 3 times since I uploaded them. New obsession, maybe?

Free Flower Pillow Tutorial!

2010-10-13T12:34:00.000-07:00

How cute is this pillow!?!

I just found a free tutorial over at "Cluck. Cluck. Sew."!

I think I will make one for my bedroom this weekend.

A Nice Visit With My Sister!

2010-10-12T11:59:00.000-07:00

My sister was here visiting last week from Seattle. It was so much fun having the girls play together!

They LOVED taking baths together!

The weather was nice enough to be outside everyday!

Lily's cousins came over for dinner one night and we piled them all in the tub!

We even had dinner outside one night and played Dominoes! I feel so lucky to have such a wonderful sister!!!

Wishing I Was at Kalaloch...

2010-10-04T07:21:00.000-07:00

My parents are at Kahaloch right now. I wish I was there too...

(All photos by Karla Englehardt, Circa 1980's)

Lily's First Field Trip!

2010-10-01T12:10:00.000-07:00

Today Lily's Preschool class went on their first field trip! I was a "Co-Op" parent today so I got to go with them! We went for a short hike up Mill Creek Canyon. All of the kids did really well. They all threw rocks in the river and picked up Fall colored leaves to bring home. Here are a few pictures from our adventure!

Pretty Cute! Don't ya think?

Inspired Spaces...

2010-09-29T20:17:00.000-07:00

Today over at one of my favorite design websites, House of Turquoise, there were some AMAZING photos!

These colors are definitely some of my favorites. Also, the way these rooms seem to flow makes me really happy. I aspire to have my living room look this good someday! What do you think? Would you decorate with turquoise and orange?

Ikea Family Live!!

2010-09-23T12:28:00.000-07:00

Yes, I love Ikea. But unfortunately I didn't like this years catalog. I usually save them for design ideas, but this year is a different story. Well today my friends I discovered "Ikea Family Live"!! It's better than the store and the catalog together! You can actually see how people are using what they buy!

Here are a few of my favorite rooms, so far.

I highly recommend that you check it out!

Enjoy!

Am I a Wallpaper Person??

2010-09-17T08:37:00.000-07:00

In the new house our diningroom and living room is shaped like an "L". I have been thinking that to define the diningroom I might wallpaper two of the walls and then add a large light fixture over the table. I have never had wallpaper in any of my homes. It seems like so much of a commitment to one style. But on the other hand I think it can be very beautiful!

Here are a few images of wallpaper that I think might go with our decor.

What do you think? Do any of these look like our house?

I Fell Off The Face of the Earth...

2010-09-15T12:47:00.000-07:00

In other words, we moved into the new house and I don't have much time for anything else. We did go to Seattle for a few weeks which was really fun!

We spent few nice evenings at my Dad's house eating dinner on the deck.

We went to Mena's first Birthday party.

We even made it to the beach a few times!

It finally felt like we had a summer break! With all of the moving and construction we needed the distraction! I hope you have been doing something fun too!

Thinking of Kids Rooms....

2010-07-20T15:33:00.000-07:00

Inspriation for Lily's new room!

Looking for graphic prints...

2010-07-19T19:07:00.000-07:00

I have been looking for some graphic prints for our new house...and I love these from Wayne Pate!

Red Butte Children's Garden...

2010-07-14T13:10:00.000-07:00

Today we had free passes to "Red Butte Gardens". We headed straight for the Children's Garden so the kids could play!!

We hope you did something fun too!

Outdoor Living...

2010-07-13T12:35:00.000-07:00

Today I have been thinking about outdoor living areas. The house we are possibly buying has a HUGE yard. And we spend alot of time outside. So I am thinking we might be able to add some outdoor living spaces. Here are some ideas I found on Sunset's website.

Cute huh?

Laundry Room Dreaming...

2010-07-12T13:46:00.000-07:00

We are thinking of putting an offer on a house today. The neighborhood is great! The yard is amazing! The house is so-so. The best part in my mind is that the laundry room is a clean slate!! There isn't even a washer and dryer yet. Some people might think that's a bad thing. Not me. My mind is racing about the possibilites!!

Here are some ideas I have found on the web:

I really like the idea of front loading machines. Maybe somewhere to hang delicates. A nice sized counter space to fold clothes. And of course some turqouise thrown in somewhere!!

I would love to know your favorite laundry room ideas!

Enjoy!

A Week with Mormor and Pappy! (part 5)

2010-07-09T09:10:00.000-07:00

On Mormor and Pappy's last day we went to Wheeler Farm.

Lily went on her first Pony ride!

Lily was sooooo happy to see all of the animals!

We fed the baby goats!

And I was happy to have my family in town!

A Week with Mormor and Pappy! (part 4)

2010-07-09T09:05:00.000-07:00

Mormor and Pappy took Lily over to "Liberty Park" on Tuesday.

Lily LOVES her Pappy!

My Mom came back and said "everyone was looking at us funny when Lily went wading in the water". Little did she know....it's illegal to go without a swim diaper at public water parks in Utah!! Whoops!

Lily drove her first car!

Later that night we headed up to the "Chow Truck" for dinner!

A Week with Mormor and Pappy! (part 3)

2010-07-09T09:00:00.000-07:00

On Monday we took a hike up "City Creek Canyon"!

Lily has had some major growth spurts lately and I'm really glad she still fits in the hiking backpack!

It was a great day for a hike!

A Week with Mormor and Pappy! (part 2)

2010-07-09T08:55:00.000-07:00

On Saturday we got packed up and headed to the Farmer's Market!

Lily in her "new" dress from Mormor!

There is always something interesting to see at the Farmer's Market! On that day Lily got to hold her first Ferret!

They always have clowns making balloon animals. But on this day Lily got pretty freaked out by the clown!

Later that night we went to a neighbors birthday party! I love going to parties on my street! It's so easy to just mosey on home whenever we feel like it!

A Week with Mormor and Pappy! (part 1)

2010-07-09T08:46:00.000-07:00

The last few weeks have been a little tough around here. After many phone conversations with my Mom about life in Utah she decided she needed to come down for a visit. So, my Mom called all of her clients, packed the car and drove down here with my Stepdad in the middle of the night!! I feel so lucky to have such dedicated family! Especially when I'm feeling lonely!!

The first day we went to Hoogle Zoo.

Lily loves the baby elephant "Zuri"!

I think Mom and John were just excited to see how much Lily has grown!

We went on the little train also! It's a great way to end a nice day at the zoo!

Seattle Guide...

2010-07-01T08:06:00.000-07:00

I grew up in Seattle and everytime I see a picture/drawing of the skyline it makes my heart pitter-patter. So this morning as I was reading Design Sponge I found this "city guide". They have categorized the city by neighborhood and all of the info looks very accurate. Maybe I will get a chance to visit some of these wonderful places on my next visit to Seattle in August.

Enjoy!!

Pigtails!!

2010-06-29T07:23:00.000-07:00

Lily's hair is finally long enough for PIGTAILS!!

I think they totally fit her personality! Cute girl!

We Love Liberty Park!

2010-06-21T16:20:00.000-07:00

Horray for Summer!!

And Horray for bubbles and babies and friends!!

Thinking of Kalaloch...

2010-06-17T13:02:00.000-07:00

I really miss home these days. I'm not sure if it's because we are having an unusually wet spring or if it's because I haven't been to Seattle in 7 months. But either way I miss it really bad. I miss my family. I miss the green color that is EVERYWHERE. I miss the smell of the ocean. Did I already say I miss my family??

Anyways.

One of my favorite places in the NW is Kalaloch. My family and I have been camping there since I was 6 years old. I have so many fond memories of that special place by the sea.

The drive to Kalaloch is about 4 1/2 hours from Seattle.

You know you are getting close when there are 150ft trees all around you.

When you get out of the car and walk down the beach there are the most beautiful rocks ever! They are large round rocks that slide around under you feet.

The views are amazing! For a place that is so rugged it is very, very peacful as well.

Kalaloch is a great place to run around and get dirty!

From the beach you can look back at the forest where the trees tower over the beach.

Once inside the Hoh Forest it is covered in lush moss and ferns.

And the best part is when the sun comes out...it is the best place in the world to get a suntan!

I miss you Washington!

Art Storage and Project Ideas...

2010-06-16T08:42:00.000-07:00

My Little Lily has become quite the artist! Her masterpieces were starting to pile up on my desk and I think I finally found a way to keep them safe!

I scored this 3-ring binder at Target the other day.

I love how graphic the print is on the outside cover! And the colors look great in my office!

The only issue I have is that the binder holds 8 1/2 x 11 in paper and Lily's currant art paper is 9 x 12. So I have been trimming her current masterpieces.

I have also been doing a little research into kids craft ideas...Here is a list of great websites!

I have a feeling this summer will be full of Art at the Monsen household!

Also! Here is an update on my paintsample ideas...

I made laminated book marks as Father's Day gifts!

Cute, huh?

Paint Samples...

2010-06-10T13:50:00.000-07:00

I have been wanting to use my left over paint samples somehow.

Here are some of the many options I found online!

Paint sample bookmarks! (tutorial here)

Paint sample notebooks. (tutorial here)

Paint samples business card holders. (tutorial here)

Or maybe some cool wall art! (both images found at Pageslap)

Even something super easy as this! (image found at Loving Living Small)

I have a pile of paint samples sitting on my desk right now!! If only I could choose which project to do first!!

Enjoy!

15$ at the Thrift Store...

2010-06-08T13:22:00.000-07:00

Last Saturday I was lucky enough to run away for the afternoon to do some thrift store shopping! Here are the pictures of my loot:

The total cost for all of this was 15$!!

50 cents for a yard of vintage corduroy...

1$ each for tins that will be used for Anna's babyshower...

75 cents each for these pottery vases also for Anna's baby shower...

75 cents each for these glass vases also for Anna's baby shower (there is gonna be alot of flowers)...

1$ per box of 12 for these vintage christmas ornaments. They are going to look great on my new white christmas tree!!

And of course books are always a great find at 1$ a piece!

I found "Pottery Barn Bedrooms", "Skippy John Jones", and "Something Special". I also found a Martha Stewart card kit but I can't find a link to it online.

Of course scoring so big at the thrift store makes me want to go everyday!! But I will be good and wait a little while!

Enjoy!

Food Packaging as Art...

2010-06-07T10:16:00.000-07:00

This morning I was reading Design Sponge and ran across this picture.

I love how graphic the Danish flour bag is. I think it would make a really cool piece of art in a white frame for the kitchen.

I started googling "Food Packaging Art" and came up with some neat ideas!

This Piece of art is by Andy Warhol.

This wallpaper is made by Studio Nommo.

I love all of these vintage american labels as well!! I found this over at Household Name.

Now if I can convince my big sisters to send me some Danish packaging I can get going on my kitchen artwork!!

Horray for Wheeler Farm!!

2010-06-02T14:02:00.000-07:00

I love any "free" activity that I can do with Lily! And today we went to Wheeler Farm for the first time. I took a TON of pictures but I think these are my favorites!

What a fun day!

Memorial Weekend in Pictures!

2010-06-01T19:10:00.000-07:00

Here are some photos from our long weekend! We had so much fun hanging around the house. I made all new pillows for the front porch (with alot of help from Sonya). On Monday we had a BBQ at our house and showed a movie for the kids when it got dark enough! Check it out!

I hope you had a great weekend too!

A Day at The Park!

2010-05-27T08:34:00.000-07:00

We went to Liberty Park yesterday with some of my favorite "Mommy" friends. Here are some pictures from our adventure!

Sonya looking cute!

Lily, Dakota and Savannah were riding in style!

Arlo having snacks with the girls!

Lily watching the big kids!

Savannah loves watching the baby!

Baby Dylan was chow'n down on his puffs!

Lily and I love living across the street from such a wonderful park!

(Jess I didn't catch any "really" good pics of you this time! I will get some next time! XOXO)

More Baby Shower ideas...

2010-05-26T09:10:00.000-07:00

Here are some more baby shower ideas...

I LOVE this invite!!

The tissue paper Pompoms could look cool hanging from trees.

I think this diaper cake is pretty cute!

I love the idea of using furniture in the yard as display pieces. It could be fun to have a book case full of gifts!

What do you think?