Finally a picnic

   

So this weekend was b-e-a-u-tiful: blue skies, high 70s and no travel plans, so Greg and I finally got our first summer picnic in (dreams do come true!). To some this may sound like your average summer activity but on the contrary, for us (for me really) a picnic is quite the momentous occasion. Throughout our almost two years together, we have yet to have a picnic but not due to lack of effort. Historically, the more than a handful of attempts have all been spoiled in some way through rain, nightfall, cold or change of plans so it has just been understood that any attempt will most likely turn sour. Needless to say, expectations for this day remained rather low as you can imagine.

But sour attempts no more! We had a picnic (and I promise it was more than the blueberries pictured!) and it was just as wonderful as I had anticipated. The little park we found haphazardly while taking a driving detour one day turned out to be a great find. Tons of green grass, historic building ruins, hiking paths and a winding garden all made for exactly what the afternoon called for. A picnic. *sigh* I love picnics.

Links for your Tuesday

1 / 2 / 3 / 4

For your home// Rhino Box by Fab.

For your life// How to Fit Healthy Habits Into Your Week

For your tummy// Whole Foods Banana Nice Cream

For your finances// How Flossing Saved My Finances

DIY // Wrapping Paper

So in my ongoing quest to be wise with my money, foster creativity and make cute things, this DIY has pretty much become a "go to"  these last couple months. Not only is this a unique packaging idea, it is a great way to recycle your paper bags and use up old nail polish. The best part is, you probably have all the supplies you need in your home already! Mmmmhmm. Saving money, re-purposing and being creative. Sounds like a great way to start out the week, don't you think? I hope you (and those receiving your gift) enjoy this homemade wrapping paper as much as I do!

Supplies:
+ Paper grocery bags
+ Old nail polish or paint samples
+ Paintbrush
+ Scissors

How to:

1// Prepare your paper: Cut down the side of the bag (along a crease) and cut off the bottom of the grocery bag so the paper lays flat.

2// Paint your pattern: Use the inside of the grocery bag to paint your desired design. If you are using an old nail polish, I recommend sticking to a smaller design like a polka-dot, x's or plus signs. The smaller the brush, the easier it is to make smaller designs. Mix and match colors, patterns and paintbrush sizes. The possibilities are endless and you can create a unique pattern every time!

3// Package your present: Once the paint is dry, you are ready to wrap and give your gift. Ribbon, bows or some unique branches or flowers add a great finishing touch!

Can't wait to share with you...

...all the people, places, travels and ideas that have been simmering over here! I am completely enjoying this new season of summer to the fullest and am just bursting in anticipation to share these with you. But until then, here are some teaser pics to keep you interested. Have a lovely weekend!

Work Hard

work hard print

My montra these past few weeks (and hopefully in the upcoming weeks!). Continuing to think of the example of the ant in Proverbs: Go to the ant you sluggard, consider its ways and be wise. Reflecting on how they teach us the value of hard work, working together and working to accomplish something beyond our selfish gain. Inspiring. Work hard lovelies!

Splurge or Save: Style for Any Size Budget

As I talked about here, the rental is being revamped bit by bit (or so my intentions think). As summer and life pick up, the gap has widened between dreaming up new decoration ideas and accomplishing the revamp (and continues to widen with each passing 70 degree day. With this beautiful weather, I just want to spend all my free time in the open air!) So though the process has slowed down, my attentions try to make their way over to the bathroom re-decoration when they can. I have found it the most manageable when tasks are divided into small segments, rather than trying to conquer the whole revamp in one fell swoop. So with that in mind, I have the task of picking out a shower curtain and bath accessories.

Being ever-so-budget-minded in my quest to find stylish bathroom doodads, I have thankfully run in to an array of similar styles offered in just as large of a selection of prices. So before being bombarded with beautiful bath things and overlooking the price due to its mesmerizing cuteness (not that this has happened to me before or anything...), I map out my budget for my bathroom redo and make a list of things that are most meaningful to change first. So where my budget focuses for now is this: shower curtain and bath accessories (towels, pictures, paint can come later). I recommend focusing on two to three things and researching where you can get the style you want for the price you are looking to spend.

Whether the sky is the limit to your decorating extravaganza or you are looking for one new piece with the dollars you have saved, there are similar looks offered for any size wallet. If you are working on a tight budget, get a general idea for the look you want then don't be afraid to check discount stores like HomeGoods, Marshalls or even Walmart - stylish things can come in the most unexpected places. (a huge sigh of relief from this girl!) It may take some sniffing around and patience, but in the end your budget and your bathroom will thank you! Here are some things that achieve the same look but can be splurged or saved on!

Rugby Stripe Shower Curtain
Splurge // West Elm Strip Shower Curtain in Dusty Navy $39.99
Save // Target Shower Curtain in BLack/White $21.49

Vintage Soap Pump
Splurge // Restoration Hardware Pharmacy Soap Dispenser - Clear $39.00
Save // Threshold Oil Can Beach Tall Soap Pump $9.99

It's Friday, right?

So this whole week I have been thinking a day behind. Wednesday I was in a haze that it was actually Tuesday. Thursday I was convinced it was Wednesday, and I mean convinced. Not exactly sure how my warped sense of time became instilled. Perhaps I need a watch? Or to pay attention to the multiple places the day and date are displayed on my computers/phones/news articles? (Hmmm looks like there is no legitimate excuse for my confusion...) but I am thankful for the actual day and time it is today.

It's Friday, thank you very much. Of that I am sure. The blank canvas of weekend is awaiting! Above is just a taste of our trip to Cleveland last weekend. We ventured around the city, meandering around the harbor, the wholesale district and a charming neighborhood brewery and market. More to come about our venture in Ohio but for now, these memories are wetting my appetite for the days ahead!