With Love

Bits & Pieces...

2012-03-05T19:32:00.008-08:00

Today:

WARM SUNSHINE, bare shoulders, wind blown hair.

Registered my big boy for kindergarten...it's really getting closer...crazy...sad...exciting...bittersweet.

Enjoyed a happy family dinner out, ate a lot, drank yummy peach tea.

I have been doing some redecorating at home, enjoying my household "duties", actually really enjoying cleaning & being productive-I have been looking at my "role" differently recently...I love being a stay at home mom, I love being a "housewife"...I am grateful <3

(a favorite little cheerful corner of our home)

We have been doing some thrift store/antique shop hunting too lately.

I am in search of some perfect sheer scarves to turn into curtains. Still havn't found anything yet...but it's still so fun hunting!

Mmmm healthy snacks. Me & my kiddo could eat these aaaall day long...

(I want some now!)

We went to a BBQ last night with good friends. Perfect weather, good food, yummy drinks. Tunes & laughter.

A hammock to relax in, a big yard for J to run around in, pretty white lights to enjoy when it got dark.

Perfect.

I made these fruit plates & we ate it aaaall up... ;)

Do you like my apron?? I love fun aprons.

I am in love with this one <3 My hubby got it for me. I love being in my tiny kitchen, wearing it :)

What I wore yesterday.

I adore black & white stripes. Also very much in love with black skinny jeans & moccasins right now.

I could wear that combo every day lately. Comfy, cute...

Tonight I will be watching the new episodes of Army Wives I recorded last night, drinking some chamomile tea & hopefully falling asleep to some kiddo cuddles-which I am craving ;)

Before all that, yoga time right now!

xo, Jamie

Happiness Is...

2012-03-03T11:00:00.005-08:00

Today, my happiness is:

New stickers I purchased from Hoop Pretty...

Sunshine, weather in the 70's...

Burning incense, open windows...

Good tunes, Kings of Leon...

Messy hair, loving it...

Getting ready for a fun bbq we will be going to tomorrow with good friends, yummy drinks, yummy food & great weather...

xo, Jamie

Just The Beginning...

2012-03-02T09:57:00.011-08:00

So the 30 days is more than half way over.

It has been awesome, to say the least.

The other ladies involved in this group are all so amazing!! I feel connected to them, and always inspired & pushed to do better.

It has slowly gotten more important to me, as each day passes-to show my body & my soul some love. It has made me a better mommy & wife in the process, I totally think.

I feel more connected, grounded, more "me", more alive, more healthy.

Adding this in to my life has been THE BEST thing I have done in a long time...loving this feeling.

My hooping has become a big part of my daily routine, and I can't wait to visit it each day. Some days I put on some mellow music & just get lost inside my hoop & the songs. Some days I practice new tricks & get a good work out in. Some days I just do a little bit, if I am not really in the mood...but once I just get going I'm happy I did :)

I have also been learning more about yoga, slowly but surely. Right now I am a big fan of the poses that stretch my (always) sore back, make me relax & feel in the moment. Loving it. Learning. Loving the process.

Loving the lifestyle.

Doing good to my body feels great. I can honestly really feel the difference! I feel healthier & more alive. Calmer.

I have also been eating SO much healthier than I ever did. I feel like I am finally starting to give my body what it really wants. I am not perfect, but I am working on it.

I know that this journey is far from over, and I can see that nobody else doing the challenge wants it to end either.

It's a lifestyle now...slowly becoming a very big part of me. I hope that my motivation & drive never goes away!

I feel great. I feel like this is just the beginning, and already I am seeing more clearly-what I need, what my life needs (and doesn't need) what I need to give to my family & what my body needs.

I can feel a lot of the stress, worry & "comparing" going away. Those things I used to let get to me SO MUCH now seem easier to deal with. I am feeling more comfort in my skin, more comfort in my life here on earth, more comfort in what I am supposed to be doing. Allowing myself to JUST BE enough... :)

Lots of love...

xo, Jamie

Upcycling...

2012-03-01T16:03:00.008-08:00

Today we had a rainy, stormy day & I spent the entire morning upcycling some of my old jewelry & doing painting with my kiddo. While listening to Band of Horses, the Nick & Norah soundtrack & a little Neil Young too :)

Taking old jewelry & making it something new is SO much fun! Love it.

Just wanted to share a few of the little projects I got done...

I took some old bangles & wrapped them with some preeeetty fabric I picked up recently that reminds me of Japanese tea gardens <3

They are still to darn big but I think they would still look cute pushed up on my arm...

This bracelet my mom gave me years ago. And I loved it-a little too much. It was falling apart :/

So I cut off the jingly bells & braided them into a new bracelet-ready for summer!

(havn't finished it yet-going to add the clasps & a cool little day of the dead skull charm!)

And these earrings, I loved them but they were just too heavy!

So I took them apart & just added some simple beads. Perfect :)

So much fun. Sometimes I totally love rainy days.

I am getting so much done! Just finished my hooping/mellow yoga for today, going to clean up around here a bit then off to make some kind of pesto/whole wheat pasta/shrimp/fresh herbs dinner creation...probably have a glass of red wine too...yes.

Perfect <3

xo, Jamie

From The Heart...

2012-02-29T16:24:00.010-08:00

Every time we take this drive, I think.

I smile. Close my eyes for a bit. Enjoy the sunshine on my skin through the window.

Life is SHORT. Time flies by. Do you ever stop and really think about it? I know I do.

I have been thinking a lot lately about my life, my "family life". Thinking about what we need, where we need to change, grow, get closer. I just want to slow down & enjoy each other more.

Spend less time being frustrated (for what?!?) and just let things go...forgive.

I am trying to allow myself to slow down too. To stop trying to "be" too much. And just be me-HUMAN.

I feel so much change happening in me. Maturity? God softening my heart, opening my eyes to what this life is really supposed to be about? Not this WORLD...but simply our precious, fleeting little lives...

We only get one..."this is your life, are you who you wanna be?"

I have been focusing a lot on what is important:

Love. REAL love.

Learning, reading, always growing.

Teaching, what is good & true & important.

Relationships, people.

Love of self, being good to my body, comfort in your own skin. Being uniquely me (no molds, no stereotypes) not living for the world...

"Those who live according to the flesh have their minds set on what the flesh desires...the mind governed by the spirit is LIFE and PEACE." Romans 8:5-6

I want to "give up" more, TRUST more.

Worry less.

I have had worry & anxiety problems for as long as I can remember, they got even worse after becoming a mom, and now I am really honestly trying to fight those feelings away for good. I'm sick of them, they make me, well...SICK.

Worry is no good for anything. It's truly pointless.

I can do my best to take care of myself & the people I care about, but from there...from there comes blind trust.

(I am REALLY working on this)

I want to hand over my fears & just live. in. the. moment.

It is a wonderful feeling, when I do stop & notice that I am really just living and enjoying and being thankful...

In each moment.

I want this all the time.

I'm working on it.

I will never be perfect...but I want to always TRY.

xo, Jamie

Yum...

2012-02-28T15:58:00.007-08:00

I think it's safe to say, I am IN LOVE with this book...

I love Trader Joe's <3

They make, like, 3 or 4 other books too? I will be getting those as well in the future, FOR SURE.

I have been having so much fun with eating healthier & trying new things! :)

I just wanted to share this super easy, quick & sooo good recipe that I made the other night: Arugula Pesto Pasta...

Yuuuum, you should try it! ;)

Also, this is the salad that I am obsessed with! Pears, walnuts, dried cranberries? Yes please!

I have been actually looking forward to making dinner lately...how awesome is THAT?!

Any recipe ideas you think I would like & wanna share?? I would love to hear!

Off to do some yoga! Oh! And I ordered my new Polypro hoop, SO excited guys! :D

xo, Jamie

Around Here...

2012-02-25T15:38:00.028-08:00

I have been:

Enjoying GORGEOUS weather...

Soaking up some vitamin D...

Doing yoga in my mom's pretty backyard...

Exercising more...

Going for walks with friends & my kiddo...

Enjoying fresh air...

Spending tons of time with my hoop...

Listening to lots of Iron & Wine...

Making tons of new jewelry...

Feeling super inspired & loooving it...

Experimenting in the kitchen, trying new yummy meals...

Paying attention to what my body needs & eating accordingly...

Allowing myself some down time, relaxing with my little one more...

Enjoying him playing music, I LOVE that he loves music...

Spending more time with friends, laughing...

Living in the moment & appreciating the people in my life more...

Getting hand-me-down band T's from my good guy friend...Tonight I hope to be:

Making dinner while listening to The Flaming Lips...

Eating frozen yogurt...

And watching either Away We Go, or Almost Famous, I can't decide (both so good)...

...and tomorrow I am hoping for a little adventure ;)

Happy Saturday evening...

xo, Jamie

New Items In My Shop...

2012-02-24T12:58:00.005-08:00

I spent the morning drinking coffee & getting creative!

Here are a few of the fun & unique new items listed in my Etsy shop...

...and more coming soon!

xo, Jamie

Cozy Home, Inspiration...

2012-02-23T17:01:00.012-08:00

I have been dreaming of hanging tapestries, making sheer curtains & buying a bunch of floor pillows & having comfy-cozy hangouts with friends :)

Makes me happy.

Just thought I would share some beautiful found inspiration...

(all photos found while browsing here & here)

Off to read this article, make dinner, do some hooping, watch NY Ink & MAYBE have some frozen yogurt...??

Right now I am in sun-sleepy heaven, it's been so nice here the last few days. Me & the kiddo have been spending lots of time outdoors. Soaking up a little vitamin D. Right now we have all the windows open & it's still warm...crazy. Gotta love California ;)

xo, Jamie

Little Things, Keeping Busy & Happiness...

2012-02-21T18:08:00.014-08:00

Hello, hello.

What a busy day we have had! Today was go-go-go & I am tiiiired.

Happy to be finally sitting here, relaxing :)

(Random) do you like my new earrings??? I'm kinda in love with 'em...

I thought I would share some more photos from the photo a day challenge I'm doing just for fun on Instagram :)

Inside your closet...

(plaid, Converse, Moccasins, inside out shirts ;) )

Blue...

Heart...

Something new...

(little ladybug timer, gift from my mom)

Drink...

Handwriting...

(studying up!)

A fave photo of you...

(well, really just a photo of me, today)

I did not have time to do my morning yoga this morning :( :( Bummed.

BUT I WILL be doing some tonight, I have been working on learning Sun Salutations, as well as some calming/peaceful routines that will be wonderful to do at the end of my long days :)

Also-still been hooping every day! Lovin' it. I am seriously wanting a Polypro hoop now...

Anyway, tonight I plan to:

Get a little "me" time in...

Get J bathed/ready for bed early, read to him a little bit out of his new preschoolers bible (so cute) & get hime to bed earlier...

Get us ALL to bed earlier...

But maybe squeeze in some tea drinking & a little reality TV watching before that... ;)

Night!

xo, Jamie

Lovin' Self...

2012-02-19T17:31:00.000-08:00

This Self Love challenge could not have come at a better time, I am telling you!

I was already in the middle of so much personal growth & change. And trying to live healthy. This challenge has just given me a little extra push, inspiration, motivation & some inspiring women to look up to <3

The last couple days I have CHOSEN to give myself, and my body, a little extra lovin'. Intentionally. I am truly hoping these positive changes stick! It feels great!

Here are a few of the little things I have been up to...

Today I bought myself some new Forever 21 rings, just because they make me smile...

I have been hooping every day. Putting on my favorite hooping songs & totally getting into it. Just allowing myself to feel the music. I have also been working on new tricks. So much fun...

Today, I chose to stand just a little bit longer in the warm sunshine. And it felt wonderful! We are having total spring weather here this weekend & I am loving the warmth on my skin...

Instead of watching TV at the end of the night, I have been reading in bed instead. SO MUCH better. This page in my daily devotions book just took my breath away, seriously. Love every word. Perfect & true & inspiring...

I have been trying my hardest to do good to my body. Learning more about vitamins & foods. Drinking tons of these smoothies & eating as healthy, organic & simple as possible. I just love it...

Today, I am feeling under the weather. I feel a cold creeping in on me. My kiddo decided to share his with me I guess ;) So tonight I will be relaxing as much as possible, drinking some tea & hopefully I will get to watch a good movie... :)

How do you show yourself love?

Are you doing the challenge?

Anyone have good reading suggestions for books on any of the topics above??

Lotsa love guys!

xo, Jamie

Ring Love...

2012-02-18T10:18:00.001-08:00

I will be taking a little trip to Forever 21 at some point this weekend (hopefully)...

SO cute. Want them all. Just sayin'... ;)

xo, Jamie

Get Inspired...

2012-02-17T10:35:00.000-08:00

This challenge has been pretty inspiring so far...and it's only day two!

I have woken up both mornings & done a simple wake up yoga routine. It feels wonderful to have a good stretch right when I get out of bed.

I am still a beginner when it comes to yoga, I've been interested in it & dabbled with it for a few years, but now, with the help of this challenge & the cool ladies involved, I am ready to learn a little more :)

I am also making hooping every day a goal for this 30 days, and hopefully it will continue on after too!

There is nothing more awesome than putting on some perfect songs & really getting into a groove with the hoop.

LOVE it.

Here is just some inspiration I have collected & saved while browsing here, here & here.

Motivation!!!

Inspired, inspired, inspired.

Happy, motivated, feeling good!

As for now, off to the park with the little one for some sunshine & play time :)

xo, Jamie

Self Love...

2012-02-15T19:59:00.000-08:00

Oh, I am TOTALLY doing this... <3

My goals:

Continue to LOVE my TRUE self. Continue to find comfort.

Hoop daily. Really get into it each day. Pray. Dedicate.

Maybe even a little yoga/breathing/stretching too.

Grow.

Carve out at least a little bit of time every day for just ME.

Continue on the path of healthy eating & learning what my body NEEDS.

I am so excited for this!

I'm excited to stay motivated, to get inspired by all the other awesome ladies involved.

Check it out...are you in???

xo, Jamie

Super Yummy...

2012-02-15T13:21:00.000-08:00

My kiddo is a little under the weather today :(

We are hanging out, drinking these: ice, frozen peaches, banana, greek vanilla yogurt & lotsa spinach, blend ;)

Super YUM!

Try it. SO good.

That is all...

xo, Jamie

Lately...

2012-02-14T09:41:00.000-08:00

We have been...

Relaxing a little more, and it feels really nice to slow down sometimes. More time reading, less computer-screen time, loving it...

Enjoying a little rain, I love cool & fresh just-rained air...

Being artists! I love my kiddo's ants & flowers...

Hanging in craft stores, after little family coffee dates...

Finding pretty fabrics for new ideas & new hair accessories. Feeling inspired & a little spring fever...

Playing a ton. Sometimes it catches me off guard when I watch J play, how big he's getting, such a BOY. Scooby Doo & action figures all the way..

Taking nature walks, getting muddy...

And this morning, exchanging Valentine's Day gifts! My hubby got me my very own Ugly Dolls...so I don't have to steal my son's to sleep with anymore...

;)

Happy, beautiful day... <3

xo, Jamie

On My Heart, Unfiltered...

2012-02-11T19:48:00.000-08:00

This changing little heart of mine...

These changing eyes, seeing things differently now.

Clearer.

Truly seeing the light in my life...and the darkness that IS ALWAYS THERE hiding around the corner...

(sometimes I have given in to this darkness...but don't we all give in at times & then we can truly see & learn from it??)

I am seeing what stages of my life are over, time to grow in some areas...

Saying goodbye to some old ways.

I am seeing more clearly what I am supposed to be doing now in my life.

Simple things, even boring things to some, but yet important & meaningful things...

I have been looking closer lately at what is TRULY important-my family. Quality time. Relationships. Love. Realness. Learning. Growth.

I am a WIFE, I am a MOTHER-putting in the extra effort. Giving it my ALL.

"Things" are not important. Material things can be fun & make you smile & that is wonderful (I love simple things that bring joy) but should never become idols.

Image can become an idol too...always making sure that people see you a certain way...

It becomes draining. Exhausting trying to keep up, perform. I see it in blog-land a lot lately. A lot clearer. It's making me drift away from wanting to read so many "popular" blogs...

Give me something real. Give me some emotion.

Isn't this life MORE than ONLY the surface things??

YesYesYes.

Sometimes I may not open up here %100, but I promise I do TRY as much as I can.

But anyway...

I have had some big things on my heart lately, big life changes, some things even I am surprised that I am thinking about, but I am...

But then again, I shouldn't be so surprised-God is softening, changing & guiding my heart.

Awesome.

I promise to go into further detail on this topic soon.

Promise.

Lots of Love, friends...

xo, Jamie

February Photo A Day Challenge...

2012-02-10T12:26:00.000-08:00

A few of you follow me on Instagram, but I thought I would share here too, my first 10 photos-a-day from this challenge...it's been fun!

Day1-your view today (morning coffee in my kitchen)

Day 2-words (my calendar)

Day3-hands (kiddo hands)

Day 4-a stranger (hehe)

Day 5-10am (getting ready, wet hair)

Day 6-dinner (yum)

Day 7-button (button rings)

Day 8-sun (my morning sun, dirty window)

Day 9-front door (ours)

Day 10-self portrait (me!)

Are you on Instagram? Are you playing along?

If we haven't found each other yet...come find me @withlovejamie

xo, Jamie

Inspiring Kiddo Finds...

2012-02-09T09:41:00.000-08:00

First of all, how wonderful & true is this???

LoveLoveLove.

I have been wanting to put together a craft/art/creative space for my little one.

Tiny tables & chairs & children's art just makes me smile!

Love these images (found here, I believe)

When I saw this it totally brought me back to my high school days when I used to attach studs & spikes onto EVERYTHING ;)

I want to put some on some of my kiddo's little hoodies, maybe...??

THIS ROOM.

So cool. I know it's a girl's room, but I am finding so much inspiration in the hanging flags, the awesome pillows, the wall art & the COLORS!

And I am totally crushing on this dino DIY...

How perfect for my little monster ;)

Anyway...I gotta run!

Fun day planned full of sunshine, park time & searching for treasures in my favorite discount book store :)

xo, Jamie

Our Weekend...

2012-02-07T18:56:00.000-08:00

This weekend flew by. (I'm sure I have mentioned it, but Dan's days off are Sunday-Tuesday, so our weekend ends today) It was full of happy. Good times.

My guys went with me today to the bead store so I could stock up on some new supplies. I am absolutely IN LOVE with those brightly colored crosses...!!!

Be on the look out for some fun new jewelry from me in the near future <3

We finally had a little more rain today & it has been sooo nice. I have been craving rain. We need it.

I let J jump in puddles today...he got his jeans all wet...it was adorable ;)

Yesterday we went to Telegraph in Berkeley (originally to go to my favorite bead store but IT WAS GONE! Sad.) we did a little CD shoppin' in Rasputin's. I finally got the Flaming Lips album Yoshimi Battles The Pink Robots that I have been wanting...#3 OH MY GOODNESS it just makes me so happy! ;)

I also made some new hair bows, just because.

I found some pretty fabric scraps & wanted to use them up :)

Other than all that we have been in food-heaven shopping at Whole Foods, having frozen yogurt for dessert, watching super hero cartoons, listening to the rain, reading & doing research on natural health (me) and just plain enjoying life...life is good <3

Lots of love!

xo, Jamie

Comfy In My Skin...

2012-02-05T11:47:00.001-08:00

It's funny...when you take the pressure off when it comes to blogging...you end up blogging a little bit more...

Strange how that works.

;)

2 posts in 1 day?

Yup. Looks like it.

I just wanted to share a little what-I'm-wearing-today. Not because it's super stylish. But because it's comfy, i'm wearing some of my favorites & most important it makes me feel good.

I want to post & share outfits that make me feel good about being ME.

Anyway...here ya go:

Tank top-Target

Sweatshirt-hand me down from a friend

Jeans-Target

Shoes-Payless

Owl necklace-Forever 21

Bracelet-SF street vendor

xo, Jamie

Messy, Messy Hair...

2012-02-05T09:06:00.000-08:00

OK...so since I started skipping hair washing some days I have kinda fallen in love with the non-washed days ;)

I am super in love with messy, thrown together buns right now.

Messy hair is adorable. I am totally embracing it lately!

Here is some inspiration I found while browsing!

Throw a headband, bandana or headwrap in there...PERFECT ;)

Speaking of headwraps...gosh I am wanting both of these SO BAD...

Adorable shop :)

(still think I need this print too...)

Anyway, that is all...happy Sunday!

xo, Jamie

Saturday Morning Pumpkin Pancakes...

2012-02-04T10:49:00.001-08:00

So this morning, I decided to make pancakes.

With my little helper.

He loves pumpkin pancakes & SO DO I! I love anything & everything pumpkin ;)

So I just thought I would share the love with you guys!

Here's what you need:

2 1/4 cups flour

2 tablespoons sugar

2 teaspoons baking powder

1/4 teaspoon baking soda

1/4 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon cinnamon

1/4 teaspoon nutmeg

1 egg

3 tablespoons vegetable oil

2 cups milk

1 teaspoon vanilla

2/3 cup canned pumpkin

Combine flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon & nutmeg together in a large bowl. Mix together.

In a separate medium size bowl combine egg, oil, milk & vanilla. Mix well. Then add the pumpkin.

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients & mix well!

Heat a skillet over medium heat (or medium high, depending on your stove) using a little butter to grease the skillet.

Pour pancake batter onto skillet, by 1/4 cup fulls. Cook until edges firm & bubbles start to pop in the centers. Flip & cook til golden brown!

Eat & enjoy with syrup, a little butter, powdered sugar, fresh fruit, jam OR WHATEVER YOU WANT!

Sooo good :)

Have a wonderful Saturday...I'm off to clean!

xo, Jamie

What's Going On & Health Stuff...

2012-02-02T17:21:00.000-08:00

So I have been sitting on my couch here, for about an hour reading.

Doing research.

I am trying to come up with a plan!

Remember how I was sick-for like a month???

Well it was gone...so I thought...but during this last week I have had this super-annoying-not-that-bad-but-still-hurts sore throat BACK AGAIN.

And tons of headaches.

During the day I mostly feel like my normal self, my energy level is pretty good. It's just this sore throat. And then at night I get sooo tired!

I have no idea what's up but doctors have given me no help what so ever so I am trying to figure out & fix this myself...

Vitamins? Change of diet??

Is it allergies? What the heck...??

Frustrating.

Suggestions? Tips? Ideas?? They would be much appreciated!

Anyway. Sorry to complain here. Just want to hear some input!

In other news:

Me & the kiddo had a wonderful day!!

He has been an angel & I really think it has a lot to do with ME putting in extra effort lately.

I stay calm & happy=he stays calm & happy.

Tonight I plan on watching some New York Ink & eating some strawberry frozen yogurt...

For right now, I'm off to make dinner & listen to some Arcade Fire (song stuck in my head)...

xo, Jamie

Simplifying.

2012-01-31T19:37:00.000-08:00

I have been feeling the need to simplify.

I am feeling like I want to cut back on internet time, on blog time, maybe spend more time on simpler things. More family time, more REAL LIFE time.

I want to quite trying to "keep up"...I want to quite reading a lot of blogs too, I don't want to read something just because EVERYONE ELSE DOES. (don't worry, if you are reading my blog right now, I am totally not talking about you :) )

What if I cut back, maybe don't blog every day or even every other day? Unless I FEEL LIKE IT, but no pressure. Or blog more simple, shorter, to the point. Or just about things I REALLY care about. No filler.

No feelings of "needing to impress" or "keep up" or "fit in".

It's just that I feel SO MANY changes coming up in our family life, like a move into A HOUSE hopefully, my kiddo starting school & who knows what else...I just never want to look back and feel like I wasted valuable time sitting on the computer, ya know???

Anyway, maybe more simpler posts. Like this...

Today I:

Woke up to kiddo cuddles...

Had Starbucks brought to me by my sweet husband...

Got ready for my day listening to some Iron and Wine...

Ate a pita bread/hummus/turkey/spinach sandwich for lunch...

went for a nice long walk/hike with my family, much needed nature time & fresh air...

Had an early dinner out, ate yummy food...

Did some grocery shopping at Trader Joe's...

Housecleaned/bathed J/did some sit-ups & arm exercises...

Tonight I will:

Kiss my sweet little boy goodnight...

Make some tea...

curl up with my favorite blanket & watch some guilty-pleasure TV...

Totally awesome day :)

xo, Jamie

On Instagram...

2012-01-30T19:16:00.000-08:00

I gave in guys...

I now have an Instagram...!

@withlovejamie

Come find me!

Haven't started posting yet...but i'm sure I will be obsessed with it soon enough! ;)

xo, Jamie

Around Here...

2012-01-30T16:28:00.001-08:00

We had a family dinner last night at my mom's.

Laughter. Love. A little wine. Cutest mini cupcakes for dessert.

I have been making more wrap bracelets.

I am keeping this one...but i'm sure more will be posted in my shop pretty soon.

Slow mornings, getting ready slowly while listening to music.

Drinking my coffee & sitting on the counter doing my makeup. Mama time.

I have been whipping up yummy smoothies, almost daily. Obsessed.

This one was strawberry/mango/banana/spinach.

I love reading inspiring words.

Finding peace, overcoming anxiety. Slowly, but surely.

And reading inspiring girl power/go-your-own-way fashion articles in my new issue of Nylon.

This one was about Andy Warhol's muses. Love.

Life has been good.

Sweet, slow & comfortable.

I'm looking forward to a relaxing Monday night :)

xo, Jamie

Things To Adore...

2012-01-28T10:30:00.001-08:00

Etsy has been totally inspiring me today!

I just wanted to share my Saturday morning finds I came across & fell in love with, while drinking my morning coffee :)

I am in love with these yoga-style headbands lately. I have been washing my hair less. And it's fantastic ;)

This cherry blossom one is SO pretty...

This shop is adorable. I love how unique it is & I love how most of it is upcycled.

This plaid top...love everything about it...

I'm still crushing on matryoshka dolls ;)

This print is so adorable...

You guys know me...i'm all about self love & staying true to yourself <3

These bracelets are wonderful, I want them all but this one is my favorite...

Certain little vintage owls actually make me just want to squeeze them...

These little guys? Cutest, sweetest little things EVER...

And speaking of owls!

I want this hoodie. Looks so cozy. I love pull over hoodies. I love the color & the print too of course...

Today is home-cleaning day.

I will be listening to music all day & enjoying some fresh air from open windows...

Hopefully tonight some friends will be coming over for homemade margaritas & hang time... <3

xo, Jamie

A Little Sleepy & Heartfelt Ramble...

2012-01-27T19:52:00.000-08:00

My new dreamcatcher from my sweet mom :)

I have a few from her, and she has a few from me...

It's kinda slowly turning into our thing.

Not just dreamcatchers, but feathers too.

In fact, we have even been talking about getting tattoos together of feathers of some kind. This makes me super excited, you have no idea. I love my mom, she's my best friend :)

Today I spent the day in the fresh air. The weather was warm. It was a gorgeous day.

Perfect.

Tonight, I plan on eating some strawberry & vanilla frozen yogurt & watching the beginning episodes of Tori & Dean.

(yes, obsessed with Tori)

I'm sleepy from the hiking & fresh air. Tired in a very good way.

My heart has been full lately.

For a while there it was getting heavy, weighed down by this world, I think. Sometimes I over think waaaay too much & in return get taken over by anxiety.

My anxiety was hitting hard the last few months, even though I didn't share much of it here (I should have) but just recently I decided to FOR REAL give it up & hand it over.

Not just saying it, or just wanting it, but really starting to TRY & FEEL it.

I'm letting God lead me in the direction he wants for my life. Even if that feels a bit SCARY. I'm tired of holding back, because of fear. I'm tired of guarding my heart. I want to live in trust. Fearless.

What a freeing feeling.

I just want to be me %100...doing exactly what I am SUPPOSED to be doing in this life...

Exciting.

Comforting.

xo, Jamie

Facts About Me-Just For Fun...

2012-01-26T10:11:00.000-08:00

Hey guys!

So I saw this over at my friend Camille's blog & thought I would join in...just for fun!

All you gotta do is share 10 facts about yourself & answer some fun questions.

Let me know if you play along, I would love to read your answers too!

*Facts* (more like secrets)

*I read magazines backwards. No idea why.

*I had hot pink streaks in my hair in high school & wore jeans with patches sewn all over them. I was "different" ;)

*I write poetry. I once won a contest.

*I am legally blind in my left eye (I know some of you may have noticed it looks a lil funny sometimes)

*I am SUPER afraid of spiders. And heights. And bridges. Like A LOT.

*I can be shy around girls. Not usually around guys.

*My least favorite body part is my legs. I'm TRYING to learn to love them...

*I have big Paris Hilton size feet.

*I was born in Berkeley California. And I love it there.

*I LOVE people who make me laugh. Laughing feels SO good.

*Questions*

Who would play you in a movie?

*Hmm...I have honestly no idea...who do you guys think???

If you had an infinite amount of money to buy one item with, what would it be?

*A shop. To sell handmade goodies, show off local art, sell baked goods, share new local music, sell antiques...yes all that in one. And much more i'm sure!

If you had to give up one of your 5 senses for the rest of your life, which one would it be and why?

*This is HARD...probably my taste. I couldn't live without hearing my son or music...not having touch would be just weird...and I don't wanna be any more blind than I already am...! ;)

If money was no object, what hobby would you take up?

*Being a shop owner!!!

What is the worst book you have ever read?

*Hmm...I give up really early on bad books, so I couldn't really tell ya.

If you were an animal, which one would you be?

*I would be a bird. A bird that lives at the beach.

If you had to eat one thing for the rest of your life, what would it be?

*Salads...cus at least that way it's healthy & you can mix it up!

If you could befriend one famous person, who would it be?

*Tori Spelling. I love her so so so much.

If you had a super power, what would it be?

*To be able to time travel. And freeze time too.

If you could go back in time and relive a moment, what would it be?

*Right after my son was born. I just wanna look at his sweet little newborn face again :)

If you could ask God one question, what would it be?

*Just one question?? Right now, that question would be: what EXACTLY do you want me to be doing in this little life of mine? :) And I'll do it!!

xo, Jamie

Happy, Happy...

2012-01-24T19:59:00.000-08:00

P.S.!

I was featured over at Julie's blog today, The Life of a Cupcake!

Such fun features she is doing on HAPPINESS right now...go take a look at mine & make sure you check out the others too!

So awesome :)

xo, Jamie

This Is Life, This Is It...

2012-01-24T12:19:00.001-08:00

Enjoying life.

Filling days with happy things. Smile.

Taking time to relax. Read. Cuddle. Laugh. A LOT.

Falling in love with new books, songs & TV shows.

Listening to Eisley's newest album on repeat <3

Drinking yummy things.

Eating tons of avocados, hummus & fresh veggies. Feeling good. Feeling better.

Finding new inspirations. Making jewelry with pretty beads.

Doing art time with my kiddo. Loving the fact that he loves drawing ants so much now.

Staying inspired by life.

Hooping more. Craving an outdoor space to spread out more. And a new pretty hoop, just cus...

Wearing things that make me smile. Like bow rings.

Cozy blankets. Rainy weather. Fresh, just-rained air.

Having a girl's night with my best friend. Laughter. Inside jokes. And owning the jukebox all night :)

<3 <3 <3

xo, Jamie

Rainy Sunday...

2012-01-22T19:08:00.000-08:00

What a sweet & simple little day...

Today my kiddo slept in until 9:45-which meant we all got to sleep in til then! It was wonderful to get that much sleep & I know my body needed it for sure.

I am still fighting off this whatever-it-is-cold-flu-virus-thing, though today I am feeling a lot better. Praying it stays that way. I'm ready to be back to my normal, healthy self!

And speaking of healthy, I wanted to share a new smoothie creation I threw together. I have been craving orange juice, probably because I've been under the weather, and this smoothie did the trick, SO GOOD...

All you need:

6 ice cubes

7 large frozen (or fresh) strawberries

1 banana

1/2 cup orange juice

1 strawberry yogurt

2 handfuls of baby spinach

*Blend!*Enjoy!*

I'm on a smoothie kick ;)

Try it, it's tasty!

So anyway, after we got up & ready today we headed to the book store & spent about 2 hours there. Reading cute stories to J, browsing tattoo magazines for inspiration & I found SO MANY books I am in love with...! I bought the Trader Joe's cookbook I wanted, it's seriously awesome.

After that we headed home & I made an early taco dinner. Had a glass of sangria. And we have just been lounging around enjoying our rainy (finally! we needed rain so bad!) Sunday evening...

Hope everyone had a wonderful weekend <3

xo, Jamie

Easiest DIY Ever + New Etsy Items...

2012-01-21T11:03:00.000-08:00

So I found those super cute little frames up there at Micheals a few weeks ago & had no idea what I was going to do with them, but I bought 'em anyway.

As I was thinking of what to put in them, I remembered that I have a stack of business cards from various places that I have collected over the years, and thought they would be perfect inside those tiny frames...and they were!

The little birdie card I got with a package sent to me from this Etsy shop (such a cute shop!!) and the skull card is one from the tattoo shop I go to!

It's mini art! All you need is tiny frames (Micheal's seems to always have them in various colors) and cool business cards!

Pretty fun :)

In other handmade news, I have been doing a little Valentine crafting lately & just listed two new fun items in my shop...

More to come, soon hopefully!

Today I am feeling much better (for now... :/) and have a LOT to get done around here...I will be checking things off my to-do list all day! It is storming outside & I am loooving it. Finally, some rain!

Happy Saturday!

xo, Jamie

Currently Obsessed With...

2012-01-20T12:39:00.000-08:00

Poor Pitiful Pearl bell sleeve t-shirts!

I have one...but am totally craving MORE!

I need more in my life, for sure ;)

SO much cuteness...

In other news, sadly my health is a disaster right now, headed in to the doctor today. Can't seem to kick this virus or whatever it is I have...headaches...horribly itchy skin all over but with no sign of any skin irritation (what the heck?!) Any ideas/thoughts??

Hope I get some answers today...!!

xo, Jamie

Things I LOVE Thursday...

2012-01-19T18:48:00.001-08:00

Hello there, Thursday evening :)

Just stopping in to share some things I have been enjoying & loving lately!

Having fun starting my creating for my Valentine Craft Swap partner. Love...

Taking photos in a public bathroom with leopard print walls. Because it made me smile, of course...

First time bowling with my kiddo, he LOVED it! Goofy shoes...

Stocking up on makeup essentials...Benefit & Urban Decay make me haaaaappy...

The rain!! It's here, finally! Kinda hoping for a full day of it tomorrow, an excuse to hang inside & stay cozy ;)

This photo just makes me happy...

And speaking of rain, how wonderful are cute rain boots???

Lovin' these...

And these too. I need to find some fun ones for myself very, very soon...

Drama. Tattoos. Cool stories. Yes, i'm in love with NY Ink...on tonight!

I will be watching it with a cup of sleepy-time vanilla tea, for sure :)

xo, Jamie

Happy News...

2012-01-18T23:15:00.000-08:00

Heeey there!

Just stopping in to say that I am SO happy to be showing off my beautiful new blog layout, done by the sweet & talented Erin from over @ My Beautiful Disaster!

Isn't it pretty??

Thank you Erin!

LOVE.

xo, Jamie

Oh You Yummy Healthy Things...

2012-01-17T18:49:00.000-08:00

One of my little goals for this year is to focus on eating more healthy foods. We totally already eat pretty healthy, but I want to make an effort to eat out less, eat more basic & natural, less man-made & more vitamin and energy rich foods.

I have been having sooo much fun browsing Pinterest for yummy new recipes & ideas. Here are a few delicious looking treats I came across that I can't wait to try and just wanted to share...

This smoothie recipe sounds fabulous! So full of vitamins & certain to give you energy! Yay for smoothies :)

We love sandwiches around here & I have been craving some different & healthier ideas. I will be trying all these out for sure! Looks sooo yummy!

Ok, these sound SO GOOD and I know my kiddo would love 'em too. I would probably just replace the chocolate chips with raisins to make them a little healthier...I wanna try these NOW!

Oh & while we're on the topic of food, we LOVE Trader Joe's. A lot. Totally need this book! :)

Any recipes, ideas or cookbooks you love and want to share?? Please do! :)

xo, Jamie

A Day Much Needed...

2012-01-15T20:38:00.000-08:00

So I have been a bit bummed. I can't seem to get back in good health, my body is hurting, my immune system is not working with me here...it's been one thing after another & I seriously can't stand not feeling well. Right now I am typing this with sinus pain & a slight sore throat... :/

So today Dan told me we were going somewhere to cheer me up. And I wasn't going to know until we got there. So we took a little drive to a small town called San Anselmo to do a little antique shoppin'!

It did make me happy :)

We browsed some great antique stores and some cute little shops downtown. We read books to J in the sweet book store & got coffee at the local coffee shop. I LOVE trying new coffee places & my vanilla latte was delicious!

Our little day was great & I was totally happy to get out and explore somewhere new :)

Here's what we brought home, cute little things for our kitchen!

Mushroom salt & pepper shakers...

And an owl timer! I needed a new timer & obviously this one is the BEST...

And speaking of my kitchen, I wanted to share my most recent handmade trade swap item! Amy sent me this adorable nesting doll embroidery. I hung it in our kitchen with all my others!

Happy, cheerful things.

Happy day.

Pretty weather.

Sweet family time.

Laughter.

Blessed.

Hey if you guys don't mind...maybe say a little prayer that my body starts to heal up soon & I feel better? That would be great. Love you guys :)

xo, Jamie

T.I.L.T...On A Saturday...

2012-01-14T11:20:00.000-08:00

Saturday. House cleaning. Still sunny here (craziness!) and we hope to get out to a park later, get some fresh air. I'm also hoping for a little rain here soon, we need it...! Listening to Bob Dylan. Love. So before I start my chores...a little list of happy things I adore...

These prints...I want them both in my tiny little kitchen right now...

And this one is just SO PRETTY...

Still really wanting green Chucks...I adore both these colors...

This shirt I want to be wearing today with black skinny jeans & boots...

Aaaand I am in love with this iPhone case...! So, so cute...

OK...that is all...off to work... ;)

xo, Jamie

A "Day Off"...

2012-01-12T15:41:00.000-08:00

Even though I am a stay at home mama & don't have a job to go to every day, I still have a pretty packed-full day, every day. ALWAYS something to do, places to go. I love living this way, it keeps me motivated & inspired & I love keeping busy & tackling to-do's.

BUT some days, I just want to stay in my cozy clothes all day & not leave the house. And that is exactly what I did today :) My body was begging for it. I have been feeling run down & under the weather lately. Today has been much needed & very enjoyable! Getting little things done around here & simply enjoying my kiddo...

I finally got my nails painted, preeeetty yellow...

We listened to good tunes...

We did a super fun little craft project, mine are the two girls on the right & J made the rest!

We had a healthy snack (told you we drink a lot of these!)

I organized and cleaned my craft stuff a bit. How cute is this new little notebook??

Besides that we have been lounging around. Enjoying open windows, with sun pouring through. I hooped for a while, J played with super heroes...

It's been wonderful :)

And here's a little bit of "what i'm (really!) wearing today"...

Happy Thursday... <3

xoxo, Jamie

Another Day...

2012-01-10T16:34:00.000-08:00

Today:

Super happy about coming across a HUGE sale bin of ribbon...dreaming of bows,bows,bows...

Loving free coffee...

And Urban Decay eyeliner...

I enjoyed the warm sun, but am praying for some rain here soon...

Loved on my kiddo, he looked so adorable in his new striped sweater...

Shopped at Trader Joe's...got more hummus cus i'm obsessed...

I shipped out a handmade trade, yaaay...

Excited about TWO episodes of Teen Mom 2 tonight...and I will be recording Tori & Dean to watch as well...

Also getting VERY excited about my blog makeover, coming soon, that the sweet & talented Erin is designing for me...can't WAIT...

Oooh & I was featured over at Little Fawn today...she is cute & so is her blog...AND enter this giveaway...

<3 <3 <3

xoxo, Jamie

Oh It's In The Little Things...

2012-01-09T20:18:00.000-08:00

Something I have been noticing a lot lately is that I love SO MUCH. Happy little things, little moments. I love a lot. And I fall in love easily. I'm embracing this. It's fun. How sweet this little life is...

I try to capture every bit of happy. I think life is pretty magical, don't you?? ;)

Here are some little-loves from lately...

Coffee dates with my two favorite boys, my sweet family...

Frozen yogurt dates too, filled with laughter...

Finding out that Hard Candy is sold at Walmart (thanks to this post) where-have-I-been...

...then doin' a little shopping...

...and finding a cheerful yellow nail polish that I looove, finally...

Enjoying reading my bible...in the early morning...with a cozy blanket & a notebook to write down inspiring words...

Trips to the public library with my kiddo...

Finding an adorable reason to downsize my wallet content... ;)

Aaaand the inside of my new purse Dan got me. Pretty pink leopard print...love...

Off to enjoy a glass of wine & catch up on New Girl...
xo, Jamie

Just Inspiration....

2012-01-07T13:40:00.000-08:00

Just one of those days to feel super-inspired...

These rings are AMAZING...

Loving the gold headband & red lips...

I want-want-want those ones on the right...!

I love this outfit of Ashlee's & BATMAN... :D

Just plain inspiring...

...and this one too...

I think this headband of hers is precious, lovin' the pink button...

Obsessed with pretty, girly body art... <3 <3

This jacket of Gwen's is exactly what I have been searching for lately...

(all photos found here, here or here, unless otherwise tagged)

Ok...enough daydreaming...off to turn on some music, eat some hummus/pita chips & get to house cleanin' already... ;)

xo, Jamie

Little Goal Book & Healthy Smoothies...

2012-01-06T16:39:00.000-08:00

See this little journal here?

So far this year (in the last 6 days) I have filled 4 and a half pages up with little goals I want to do this year. Things like visit the beach more, put more permanent beauty on my body (tattoos) & listen to more live music.

Well one of the little things was to make smoothies more often!

We loooove smoothies around here, so yummy & healthy too :)

I thought I would share with you my recipe (just finished one of these about an hour ago-SO GOOD)...

*Ingredients*
-5 or 6 ice cubes

-5 or 6 large frozen strawberries

-about half a cup of frozen blueberries

-1 banana

-1 lowfat vanilla yogurt

-1 or 2 handfuls of baby spinach (I promise, promise, promise you don't even taste this part!!!)

Blend it all up & enjoy! :)

It's seriously the perfect snack.

In other news: I am fighting a head cold that my kiddo decided he needed to share with me. Not much fun, but I hope to be over it very soon! I have been obsessively listening to this song, it makes me wanna get out my hoop or dance around my room. Love it. Oooh & NY Ink is back on & I am loving the drama so far... ;)

Have a fabulous Friday evening, friends!!

xo, Jamie

Handmade News...

2012-01-04T13:53:00.000-08:00

Today I went through my jewelry supplies, found some inspiration, listened to Band of Horses, sat in the sun & created some new charm necklaces!

I love them all...but I won't be keeping them! Hopefully I'll be listing them in my Etsy shop this evening...

AND! This little bow I made is in a group giveaway over at Little Fawn right now...

Go check it out!

Oh & my holiday ornaments are on sale in my shop as well!

Happy Wednesday...

xo, Jamie

Owl Therapy...

2012-01-03T17:01:00.000-08:00

Today...I woke up with a migraine. Like literally. I had my eyes open for only about 5 minutes when the flashing, blurred vision started. Then shortly after, the killer headache. So I just stayed in bed another 3 hours. Finally I started feeling a little bit better so I forced myself to get up & get going. I drank tons of coffee cus the caffeine helps. Then I thought of something that would make the day better-a little antique shopping :)

So we got ready, grabbed some good mellow tunes (Ray Lamontagne & the Garden State soundtrack) picked up some teas and took a little 30 minute drive to an awesome antique mall. It was warm out today & the sun on my face during the pretty drive was totally perfect. To top it all off, when we got there the place was like owl heaven. They were everywhere! I was like a kid in a candy store. Love :)

Those little guys right up there are the ones that came home with us. I cleaned 'em up & now they are hanging out on my little owl shelves.

I'm happy today turned into a good day, i'm happy we got out, and i'm happy I didn't get sicker than I did. Migraines are seriously THE WORST.

Tonight I hope to have a mellow evening & watch my guilty-pleasure TV.

And get lots of sleep, since those darn headaches wipe me out!

xo, Jamie

Little Pieces Of Life...

2012-01-02T14:10:00.000-08:00

Life is so sweet right now. New ideas are flowing. My heart is so full of happiness & warmth. So many to-do's being written down. I feel content, inspired. Feels like a brand new, fresh start. HAPPY.

I have been...

Enjoying sunny winter days...

Stocking up on pretty & inspiring to-do notepads...

Drinking SO MUCH tea. Morning, noon & night...

Wearing purple eyeliner & feather earrings...

Finding the perfect pair of moccasins, on sale too...

Cuddling with my kiddo & his huge collection of Ugly Dolls...

Enjoying much needed nights out with my husband. Wearing leopard shoes & Rolling Stones tank tops...

And taking pictures in bathrooms... ;)

Right now, I am fully enjoying a lazy afternoon on the couch with my sweet kiddo, who is not feeling too hot. Which is KINDA nice 'cus he's so cuddly ;) I'm wearing yoga pants, slippers & my over-sized comfy Led Zeppelin sweatshirt. Perfect. We are watching The Smurfs movie & it is WAY too cute...and I think i'm gonna go make some smoothies now, yuum :)

xo, Jamie

My Favorite Inspiring Women...

2012-01-01T15:18:00.000-08:00

...for 2012!

This year is going to be fabulous. I can just feel it.

<3 <3 <3

I wanted to share with you some of the women that make me feel motivated & inspired. Role models are awesome!!

I adore Gwen, for so many reasons. Girl power. She's an amazing mama & she goes for what she wants. Love her...

Gala is my self-love-super hero. Her blog is a constant source of inspiration & empowerment!

Tori...oh, I love Tori :) She's all about being a parent, designing, antique shopping, decorating, kid's fashion, being crafty...how can you not LOVE her?!

Shauna from Poor Pitiful Pearl is such a spiritual inspiration to me. I love how she has her own unique & funky style AND has a serious love for God. And she's an inspiration to always remember to follow your dreams!

Kat Von D, my favorite tattooed lady. She has wonderful style & rocks some awesome tattoos!

So who are YOUR favorite inspiring women??

Lots of love...

xo, Jamie

Welcome 2012!!

2011-12-31T10:33:00.000-08:00

What an inspiring day!

You guys SICK of hearing about goals and resolutions?? Sorry, but here's yet another post about 'em ;)

I feel motivated, excited & full of my morning coffee...so here goes a big post on my thoughts, hopes, dreams and goals for a brand new year!!

1.) Use my planner. I found an adorable tattoo-style one that totally inspires me & I plan to use it! I love being productive. I love making lists & checking things off. So I plan on really using my planner this year, hopefully (pretty much) every day. I get more done this way & feel more accomplished!

2.) Take more (mini) fashion risks. In MY OWN way. I am constantly falling in love with things, and I don't want to be afraid to try new things! Like wear a brighter, bolder shade of red lipstick, paint my nails hot-hot pink, not be afraid to show off my legs more this summer, try some fun hair styles on nights out. oh all the FUN possibilities! Here's to looking & feeling beautiful this year!!

3.) Focus on my Etsy shop. Tackle new ideas. Be super-creative & open & free. Plan. Just go for it! Being creative is my outlet, I wouldn't be able to live without being able to create & share. I want to brainstorm new ideas this year & hopefully expand, not necessarily money-wise, but creatively. I want to explore new ideas & options!

4.) Make an inspiration board. This one kind of goes hand in hand with #3. I want to create an ever-changing place to put all my inspirations. Something to inspire & motivate me constantly!

5.) Focus on patience & teaching & planning when it comes to parenting. This is a big year! My kiddo starts school this fall. This is exciting, scary & overwhelming all at the same time. I want to soak up all the still-at-home moments with him. Be patient with him & enjoy. Get him prepared for school, get him excited. Time goes by SO fast-I just want to focus on being "in the moment" and involved!

6.) Continue to work on self love & feeling comfortable in my own skin. I want to always remember that no one's opinion of me really matters but God's. And He loves me just the way I am. I want to continue to work on being %100 me, letting myself fall in love with every little thing & stay excited about my sweet little life!

There we go :) Those are my big goals. I also have some mini ones like: keep hooping & loving it, making our bed every day, earlier bed times for all of us, and expanding my cooking skills ;)

I just LOVE fresh starts!!!
Did you make goals/resolutions for yourself this year? Let me know if you did & I will come check 'em out!
xo, Jamie

Handmade Trade Love...

2011-12-30T13:28:00.000-08:00

OK, so I just had to share real quick these ADORABLE handmade trade items I received from my friend Chrissy...all the way from Germany!

OhMyGoodness! How awesome is all this...!?

She sent me the coolest bracelet, that i'm sure I will be wearing all the time!

And this precious deer embroidery & a seriously cool sugar skull embroidered phone cozy!

She is super crafty & very talented :) Check out her shop here!

xo, Jamie

Things I Love Thursday- A Fashion Post...

2011-12-29T17:09:00.000-08:00

For this week's T.I.L.T I want to share some of my current fashion inspiration. I am loving getting dressed lately & planning outfits/picking out accessories! I think it's a mixture of all the gift-card-money shopping I have been doing & the fact that I looove cold-weather fashion. Layering up is my favorite ;)

Here are some things I am loving, on this cold Thursday evening...

Funky & bright...those shoes, socks, leggings, so cool!

Kat is a true inspiration. Love her boots & yellow knit hat...

These gloves are at Hot Topic. I think I need them ;)

Doc Martins love forever :) Ooh & that red bag...

Pretty, pretty accessories...

Yellow roses, I adore. My next tattoo will involve them...!

This look is so grungy & casual...

I just love everything about this photo. Purple hat! Lacy tights!

My newest obsession: brightly colored eyeliner <3

See? I just picked up these Urban Decay ones & I can't waaaiiit to try them out! New Years Eve, maybe??

(that pink one is called Woodstock & I am in love)

AND I couldn't leave without sharing this! How adorable is this bottle opener my mom surprised me with today??? She knows me SO well ;)

(None of these photos are mine, except for the last 2. I kinda found them all over, but mostly here & here :))

Have a wonderful evening!!

xo, Jamie

What I Wore+Great Day Out...

2011-12-28T17:51:00.000-08:00

Today, I spent the whole day with my sweet little family & my 14 year old awesome little brother. He's turned into such a cool little dude :) We shopped til we dropped!! First we stopped to get coffee & I got the best iced pumpkin spice latte eeeeveeer then we headed to Rasputin's & the mall & did some serious gift card spending ;)

Here's what I wore:

Cardigan: Forever 21

Grey tank- Target

Scarf- Gift from my friend

Black jeans- Kohl's

Worn-in-flats- Payless

Bow ring- Paradise Rose shop

Today was surprisingly warm so I got to wear just a tank top & scarf most of the day which was nice :)

I picked up these Van's in black/white that I have wanted for the longest time, this top from Forever 21, and a Rolling Stones tank toooo, and the new Blink CD (I have loved them for yeeeaaars, do you??) as well as this Iron & Wine CD too.

Tonight I plan to eat some sushi, drink a little red wine, cuddle my boys & probably watch Kung Fu Panda 2...again. Have you seen it? It's cute, my kiddo is in love :)

Sweet, sweet Wednesday evening...

xo, Jamie

Real Life, Now...

2011-12-27T21:00:00.000-08:00

Ahh...two days after Christmas.

Life flies by.

I spent the ENTIRE day yesterday taking down Christmas decorations (besides our tree!) deep cleaning & reorganizing. Like I ALWAYS do right after Christmas. I feel accomplished.

I have been making goals & resolutions for the coming new year. I am feeling pretty inspired & motivated right now. I will definitely be sharing soon! And let's just say all of my resolutions have to do with GROWTH, in all areas of my life.

I have a good feeling about this new year! This last one has been amazing and I just know this next one will be awesome too!

Today I went on a little shopping spree for my kiddo, with the clothes-spending money he got from Grandma. Target is my total favorite.

How wonderfully awesome are these sweaters & those SKINNY JEANS?! His first pair!

I love shopping for my little boy just as much as I love shopping for myself ;)

Tonight my two guilty-pleasure shows are on: Teen Mom 2 and Tori & Dean.

I can't get enough teenage mama drama & Tori Spelling...I love Tori Spelling. Did you know she came out with a new party planning book? Must check this out :)

Off to make tea & get warm...it's freezing here!

Lots of love...

xo, Jamie

Christmas 2011...

2011-12-26T13:59:00.000-08:00

...was AWESOME :)

It was a full day, packed with love, happiness, smiles, family, gift giving, toys, yummy food, wine, Christmas shows and lots of hugs :)))

I'm a little sad to see it go...but I know we enjoyed it to the fullest. Now, on to a brand new year! :D

xo, Jamie

Merry, Merry Christmas Eve!

2011-12-24T18:09:00.000-08:00

It's heeeere :)

Today we spent the day with most of my huge family at my grandparent's house & it was really, really nice. Lots of good food & good company. Makes my heart happy. Tonight we are home, getting ready for Santa to come, Christmas shows are on TV & my best friend will be over soon to do a little gift exchange.

Here's a few little peeks into our Christmas Eve:

Gingerbread house I made with J today...

(do you see all the mushrooms in the bears' garden?? I love it.)

Santa's yummy gingersnaps I made...

Our tree is still looking lovely & smelling so wonderful...

(one of my favorite ornaments!)

And here's what we will be watching tonight...

I hope everyone is having a very merry holiday & spending it with the people they love :)

xo, Jamie

Thrifty-Inspired Ornament DIY

2011-12-23T09:48:00.000-08:00

Last night I was feeling a second burst of energy & in a creative mood, so I got out my craft supplies & got to making!

I ended up creating this ornament that, to me, just screams "I love thrift shops & retro things!!"

;)

It was super easy & fun & I made it up along the way, grabbing random things out of my supplies as I went. Wanna try one??? It was fun, kinda like throwing together a funky scrapbook page!

Supplies I used:

-Wood ring from craft store (just like the one I used in this DIY)

-Yarn

-Little square of scrapbooking printed paper

-Stickers

-Buttons

-Ribbon

-Hot glue...I love my glue gun ;)

First, I wrapped my wood shape with green sparkly Christmas yarn, using several long pieces of yarn & gluing every so often as I went along.

Then I cut a square of SUPER CUTE mushroom printed paper & glued it to the back, then added a sweet little owl sticker & a leaf sticker to the front.

After that I glued buttons everywhere (of course!) and glued some pretty snowflake ribbon to the back for hanging.

And that's it! Easy peasy!

Tell me if you decide to go through your supplies & get creative too-I'd love to see!

Also, I just wanted to share these ornaments my kiddo & my mom worked on all day the other day :)

She traced his hand, cut 6 of them out of wood, then J went to town painting & glittering! He even got to help drill the little holes for the string to go through ;) He had a blast & I think they turned out really cute. We are giving them to family members as gifts!

Can you guys believe Christmas Eve is TOMORROW??

I'm ready ;)

xo, Jamie

Things I Love Thursday-Inspiration-Betsey Johnson!

2011-12-22T10:15:00.000-08:00

Today, I just want to share how lovely, colorful, fun, unique & inspiring Betsey Johnson is!!!

Every time I see her stores, her displays, her new jewelry, the photos she posts on Facebook, I get so excited. I just love her creativity & free spirit!

Love, love, love!

I think this floral-wallpaper-with-frames wall in her SF store is AMAZING...

Best scarf & jacket...

This sweet little necklace reminds me of Day of the Dead sugar skulls & I LOVE it...

Aaaand I found this Betsey-inspired DIY over here on this fun blog, I can't wait to make one of these!!!

This post just put me in the best mood, seriously :))))

Now off to tackle my day & my to-do list!

xo, Jamie

Gifts, Music, Lights, Crafts & Sushi...

2011-12-21T16:44:00.000-08:00

Hey guys!!!

This day is almost over...then THREE days til Christmas...whaaaat?!

Craziness.

First of all, Santa (or family/friends/husband too!) is it too late to ask for 2 more little things??? ;)

I am IN LOVE WITH BUMBLE. Haha. I have been since I was a kid. He just makes me happy & is the cuuutest. When I saw this little guy here it totally made me smile...I need him ;) And some Ed Hardy perfume because it smells flippin' fantastic & it comes in the prettiest bottle I ever did see...

Days have been speeding by lately & I have been keeping truly busy over here. Filling my days with holiday goodness, hanging out with my sweet kiddo and, well, just LIFE too!

My hubby gave me an early Christmas present the other night (!!!) he said he wanted to give it to me early so I could listen to it while I did my present wrapping ;)

(obsessed with this band...have you noticed yet?!?)

Last night was an AWESOME night.

We bundled up, got J in his cozy pj's, and hopped in the car & drove around looking at Christmas lights. Of course we stopped for frozen yogurt first, oh & listened to Christmas songs too as we drove around ;)

This house was our favorite. Nightmare Before Christmas!

Today I packed up my craft stuff & my dirty laundry & me & the kiddo headed to my mom's & spent the whole day doing laundry & getting creative!! I made more hair bows & J made holiday ornaments (Paint! Glitter! He loved it!) with grandma. Pretty fun day :)

And I received this sweet little something from my awesome friend Heidi in the mail...love that girl!

Cute, right?

Oh & have I showed you my newest antique-find nesting doll? I love her. Lots.

Just had to share.

Does anyone else eat sushi for breakfast...?!

Or am I just weird?

;) haha.

Speaking of food, i'm off to make dinner...happy Wednesday evening, friends!

xo, Jamie

Christmas-y Things...

2011-12-19T12:38:00.000-08:00

6 days?!?

I'm totally not ready for Christmas to be almost here...& then done!! Time is flying by sooo fast!

We have definitely been celebrating around here, soaking up everything Christmas-time :)

I spent the whole morning wrapping presents, drinking coffee (with gingerbread latte creamer-yum) and watching holiday Yo Gabba Gabba shows with my little guy. I used to haaaate that show, it drove me kinda crazy, but it has grown on me & now I kinda like it...a lot. Tori Spelling was just on it & I love her so that was pretty sweet ;)

I LOVE the way our tree looks now with all the presents under it & I had so much fun adding personal touches to special gifts :)

Here's a little look into the Christmasy-ness going on around here...

(Gosh that's a total made up word haha)

My mini-elf in Starbucks, Baileys at night, my bow ring & freshly-dyed hair makes me SO happy :)))

Lots of love...
xo, Jamie

Mini Button Tree+New Hair!

2011-12-17T15:30:00.000-08:00

So I had this cute little pink tree I got last year for a dollar or two. And I decided last night that it needed to be decorated, of course!

So I got out my glue gun, some embroidery thread & buttons...and made some mini ornaments for my mini tree...

Tiny, pink, button tree???

I love it & just had to share! Oh, it's the little things ;)

Aaaand I got my hair cut today & had it dyed dark again.

It makes me happy.

Tonight I am making chili & corn bread & plan on having some Bailey's on ice. And watching something Christmas-y with my guys. Should be a fabulous night!

xo, Jamie

Things I Love Thursday (on a friday)

2011-12-16T18:26:00.000-08:00

Today, I feel like sharing some things I am lovin' right now...and since I missed T.I.L.T yesterday, I figured why not just do it today!?!?

Exactly. No reason why I can't!

Pink Christmas decorations. And cupcakes. And trees. I just love it. I am ALWAYS dreaming of a pink Christmas...

Tattoo style jewelry...LOVE SO MUCH! These two shops have completely stolen my heart.

Ahh, so CUTE!

White eyeliner. I think black/white eyeliner looks so cool together. I just picked up a white eyeliner pencil at Target yesterday & can't wait to start playing around with fun new eye looks!

Preeeeetty right?

Other things I am loving today:

-Coffee with great company. Clear, crisp air. Sitting outside in the sunshine. Laughing with Shauna. Justin making paper airplanes for J. I have awesome friends <3
-Wearing the color black. This just always makes me happy. Strange?

-Listening to oldies (but definitely goodies) Willie Nelson, Elvis, Patsy Cline & Johnny Cash <3

-The fact that my hair lady had a person cancel & had an opening for me tomorroooow, this makes me SO happy. Back to really dark hair, and shorter too ;)

-Admiring our Christmas tree.

-Old Disney Christmas cartoons, that are on right now.

-Cozy/cute socks. Warm toes.

Today was a sweet little day :)

How was yours?

xo, Jamie

"Come As You Are"

2011-12-15T17:07:00.000-08:00

Today I just want to ramble.
Talk about what has been on my mind & my heart.
Bear with me; it may be a bit all over the place...
I spend a lot of my time thinking about "spiritual stuff".
I believe in God. And Jesus.
I believe in Grace & Forgiveness. I believe in the God I see while looking out at the ocean, the God I feel when the warm sun touches my face.
I am FAR from perfect.
I sin.
I struggle.
I am an emotional mess, I am constantly fighting battles.
Constantly pushing Him away, then crawling right back...
I am human. And it's OK that I am this way.
I was created like this...with these interests, likes, emotions, needs, feelings, flaws, talents.
It's pretty amazing if you think about it. And awesome that we don't have to do much more than try, love, trust & just BE.
I am free to be me..."come as you are"...
I saw this quote over at my friend Amber's Facebook page (she is SUCH an inspiration!) I wrote it down when I first saw it & I constantly go back and read it for inspiration, when I am feeling defeated, not good enough, or um, well, HUMAN...

"When I get honest, I admit I'm a bundle of paradoxes. I believe and I doubt, I hope and get discouraged. I love and I hate. I feel bad about feeling good, I feel guilty about not feeling guilty. I am trusting and suspicious. I am honest and I still play games... To live by grace means to acknowledge my whole life story, the light side and the dark. In admitting my shadow side, I learn who I am and what God's grace means." -Brennan Manning

Isn't that wonderful? I just love it <3

Thoughts? Words? Input? :)

(Oh & do you like my new hat??? I love it.)

Goodnight friends...

xo, Jamie

Obsessed Much?

2011-12-14T09:22:00.000-08:00

Yea...I may be a little obsessed with this band...

And I don't care ;)

xo, Jamie

My Life...In Photos...

2011-12-12T15:57:00.000-08:00

I love these posts.

They are my favorite.

Just REAL LIFE. Capturing the little things.

Daily realness.

Life moves so fast...let's document all the sweet little things <3

The weather has been SO COLD. But...I like it. Dressing warm is my favorite. I love layers & mittens & hoods & wearing lots of black... ;)

Pretty fan I put up in our bathroom (I want more now!)

Bows I have been making! Two are in my Etsy shop :)

Making grilled cheese with my "dude" spatula...

My bow rings came in the mail, from this girly little Etsy shop...

These just make me happy...

...and so do these...

Painted my nails my favorite shade of dark-cherry :)

Me; today.

Candy canes & Beatles love...

AND speaking of The Beatles, my new issue of Nylon came & is full of retro 60's/Beatles inspired things. Awesome :)

I'm off to read this & cuddle up with my guys next to our pretty, pretty Christmas tree.

xo, Jamie

Found Inspiration Post...

2011-12-11T09:43:00.000-08:00

Just some found & saved images I have come across over the last few weeks. If I see something that inspires me in some way, I save it. Then put them all into fun little inspo-posts like these!

(I kinda wear things like this all the time...)

(I think red jeans are SO FUN. Want some.)

(This photo is magical. Remember those socks??? I still have some pink 'n' white ones.)

(<3 animal rings)

(Gorgeousness)

(One of each, pleeeaaase!)

(I don't know if I have ever seen a prettier dream catcher...)

(Lovely ring collection. Minus the few silly word ones in the front.)

(Striped socks/leggings/boots...still in love)

None of these images are mine, obviously. I would give you sources...but I've kinda found 'em all over!

;)

Happy Sunday...i'm off to make hair bows!

xo, Jamie

Mine!

2011-12-08T18:22:00.000-08:00

Just purchased this beanie.

Because I just HAD to. I needed one ;)

Can't wait to wear it with aaaall black...!

I just love all black outfits with pops of brightness. PerfectPerfect.

Now, I HAVE to get off this computer! I had the worst migraine earlier & this computer screen is killin' me right now :/

Does anyone else get migraine headaches??

They suck. Bad.

Dan's bringing home snickerdoodle frozen yogurt.

Yes :)

xo, Jamie

On a Wednesday Evening...

2011-12-07T17:13:00.001-08:00

Hello blog world :)

Life has been crazy, busy & awesome. And FULL.

But honestly, I wouldn't have it any other way.

I have been keeping busy with holiday activities, spending quality time with family & good friends, cooking/baking/drinking lots of homemade coffee creations...and getting tattooed <3

My mom came by yesterday & brought me these two beauties she picked up for me at Cost Plus. Gosh I love that store, and these cuties sooo much...!

I took a trip to Target the other day & was very excited to see they had SOMETHING FINALLY in my son's size from the Harajuku Mini line!

I love these shoes. So happy I scored 'em...

THIS makes me really happy. People can be so kind & I have the sweetest blog buddies :)

Remember this post I did, like, last week? Well my sweet friend Camille sent me a super cute little black vest that she didn't want! And I LOVE it!

(thank you Camille!)

(I am adoring that lacy back...can't wait to wear it out!)

AND she sent me this sweet little ring!

That's my kiddo modeling it ;)

Ahh, happy things <3

Tonight one of my favorite shows is on...and it's getting good! Does anyone else watch America's Next Top Model All Stars??

Love it.

Off to make dinner!

xo, Jamie

My Newest Addition...!

2011-12-05T17:17:00.000-08:00

Meet my brand new & super sweet little diamond tattoo:

I'm in love.

After getting some pretty large pieces lately, I just wanted something small & sweet.

I wanted this diamond to represent strength. Staying strong through whatever life may throw at me. Remembering to stand firm in what I believe in.

I'm ridiculously happy with it <3 <3 <3

xoxo, Jamie

Why It's Awesome Being a Girl...

2011-12-04T17:19:00.000-08:00

My "pretty place"...

And my 2 current absolute favorite beauty products: Maybelline "the falsies" mascara & Elf one-dollar-lipstick...

I am definitely not a total girly-girl.

I choose to wear skinny jeans instead of dresses or skirts, I prefer tattooed on diamonds rather than real ones (there's a little hint to what i'm getting done tomorrow!!) and I like a good pair of boots a lot more than I like high heels....BUT I seriously do love being a girl & loving all the pretty little things; liquid eyeliner, the color pink & hair bows seriously make this world a better place! ;)

Happy Sunday night...i'm off to enjoy the pretty white twinkly lights on my Christmas tree & eat some cake batter ice cream!

xo, Jamie

Song On Repeat...

2011-12-04T11:25:00.000-08:00

Could I be any more in love with this song???

Awesome <3

xo, Jamie

Sweet Things...

2011-12-02T15:06:00.000-08:00

Today has been a good day. No wait, a great day!

I went out & did some holiday shopping & browsing with J. He was in a wonderful mood & was actually a great shopping partner (so not the norm for my 4 year old!! ;) )

Found some pretty things to fall in love with...

Sweet sparrow earrings, LOVE.

Lucky caaaaats!

Me & J both got super excited about these sweet little cameras we found at the dollar store!

I bought, like, 6! ;)

Mmmm this is my drink of choice lately: raspberry lemon drops. SO yum.

(no, I did not have one of these today haha this is from last weekend!)

So in love with making our whole apartment smell like Christmas...

Our favorite snack around here: apple slices with peanut butter & cinnamon!

A gift I received from a friend, cutest little mushroom. I put a ribbon on it & turned it into an ornament :) :)

Best Christmas CD ever (besides my Elvis one!) and finally I own Breakfast at Tiffany's!

Things have been pretty awesome over here.

We started our advent calender last night & have had our pretty tree lights on non-stop.

We have been watching cheesy holiday TV movies & Christmas specials.

I'm kind of obsessed with decorating & getting pretty excited about wrapping presents...

Oooh & I might be getting a new little something pretty tattooed on me this weekend...! <3 <3

Happy Friday!

xoxo, Jamie

I'm Guest Blogging!

2011-12-01T18:53:00.000-08:00

Over @ A Lovely Little World...go take a look & get button-crafting! ;)

xo, Jamie

Things I Love Thursday- Keeping Warm & Cute...

2011-12-01T09:45:00.001-08:00

...in Forever 21, of course!

One of my favorite places ever has the best cold-weather outerwear right now!

Seriously loving it all.

Look how cute...

Oh my goodness, I have wanted one of these little black vests FOREEEEVEEER...!

And how awesome are bright red peacoats???

Fingers crossed for some gift cards this year, maybe...??

;)

Today I am having a coffee/shopping date with my best friend and my sweet kiddo.

Should be a really nice day out.

We also plan on going by the tattoo shop to talk to my artist about some future work... :D

(this ALWAYS makes me super happy!)

Hope everyone has a wonderful first day of December!!

xo, Jamie

Colorful...

2011-11-30T17:19:00.000-08:00

...gingerbread people!

These are what I have been making, in my free time.

I think I will post a few of 'em in my shop sometime soon!

They make me happy :)

xo, Jamie

Dear Santa-Stocking Stuffers!

2011-11-29T11:51:00.000-08:00

Lately, I have been falling in love with EVERYTHING!

Seriously.

Searching through Forever 21 & Etsy, I have been like a kid in a candy store...!

So I figured I would make a little wish list, totally just for fun...and i'm sure this will be the first of a few... ;)

I LOVE makeup brush rolls! And this one is so puuurty...

Scarves, in the BEST colors/designs...

Aaahh, I just love silver & gold in December & January...one of these, in each color please ;)

Ok, I know I talk about slouchy beanies a ton, but these two, the COLORS, I just adore them!!

I am a fan of this shop :) And her little stuffed nesting dolls melt my heart...!!

PERFECT stud earrings <3

Aaaand how adorable are these tattoo inspired flower clips??? Love 'em...

Smile... <3 <3 <3

xo, Jamie

If I Could Raid One Celebrity Closet...

2011-11-28T12:25:00.001-08:00

It would be Ashlee's. For sure.

Oh & while I was at it, I would raid Bronx's too ;)

Gotta say, maybe it's just me 'cus I love dark hair, but her black hair was my faaavorite...

Super inspiring!!!

LoveLove.

Happy Monday <3

xo, Jamie

Our Tree Is Up...

2011-11-27T17:45:00.000-08:00

...and making me SO happy...!!

xoxo, Jamie

Lately...

2011-11-26T18:01:00.000-08:00

I have been:

Wearing pretty hair flowers...

Loving J's growing collection of Ugly Dolls (he lined them up like this hehe)

Having this deliciousness in my nightly tea, yum...

Enjoying happy reading material...

Decoratiiiiiiing...

Doing a little shopping at Urban Outfitters (I bought some silly mustache stocking stuffers & gifts for Dan, including this & this!) and I fell in love with these mugs aaaaah so cute...

Getting ready for the day with my Starbucks & hairspray ;)

Wearing favorites: plaid, scarves, boots...

I am off to craft up some felt gingerbread people :D

Tomorrow morning we are finally getting our Christmas tree & I am suuuper happy!!

I'm sure i'll be sharing pics!

xo, Jamie

Music/Style Crushin'-Eisley...

2011-11-25T10:34:00.000-08:00

LOVE.

Their adorable style.

And Sherri DuPree Bemis is super inspiring <3

I love her voice, this album, this video, this song...

I am in SUCH an inspired mood today!

So instead of trying to go out and shop on BLACK FRIDAY like the rest of those craaazy people (hehe) I am staying in-holiday decorating, cleaning house & watching Christmas cartoons with my little love bug.

The weather outside is chilly & perfect for a day like this <3

xoxo, Jamie

What I Wore-I Heart Red Plaid!

2011-11-23T17:37:00.000-08:00

Yesterday I took my little one to our local library for some fun Thanksgiving activities...here's what I wore on a perfect-weather November day...

Red, black & white plaid top (my faaavorite!)-Forever 21

"Jeggings"-Macy's

Boots-Payless

Brown bag-Target

Studded bracelets-Forever 21

Bunny ring(LOVE)-Forever 21

...I love Forever 21, I must admit... ;)

So what does everyone have planned for Thanksgiving???

I have lots of food, family & THANKFULNESS in mind for tomorrow :)

(Cute lil turkey cupcake!)

Lots of love...

xo, Jamie

Little Life Randoms...

2011-11-21T10:50:00.000-08:00

My holiday spirit is totally here!

I have been decorating & crafting & listening to Disney Christmas music with my sweet kiddo :)

Pastels make me happy at Christmas time...

Still.Button.Obsessed.

I have been making earrings so I have a pair in all colors, to go with all outfits ;)

(And I have been making them for gifts too!)

We have been having family coffee (and hot chocolate!) dates & family movie nights cuddled on our couch.

We went to see Happy Feet 2 yesterday also, it was pretty cute!

I have been living in hoodies & warm boots...

And fingerless gloves. These ones make me smile, with hearts sewn on them... :)

(Yikes! I need to paint my nails!)

In a little bit I am heading out to do some Christmas shopping ALL BY MYSELF...should be fun!

xo, Jamie

Cat Eyyyyeeeees!

2011-11-19T10:01:00.000-08:00

My favorite go-to eye makeup look: the cat eye <3

I LOVE this extreme look sooo much, next time I get all dolled up i'm giving this a try...

Lauren Conrad is the queen of cat eyes...this video is helpful & cute :)

Here is my weapon of choice: M.A.C Fluidline...

I went out for Mexican food & margaritas with my best friend last night, we had a blast! Great girl time.

Oh & of course, here are my cat eyes... ;)

And today??

I will probably be wearing zero make up! Ha.

I am spending the next 2 days doing little family get-togethers & i'm really looking forward to it!

I am needing some down time, some relax time :)

Happy weekend! Lots of love!

xo, Jamie