May 31, 2017

May Favorites

1/ EcoBark Dog Harness
After years of searching for a harness that helped control my dog’s tendency to pull, as well as one that fit her broad chest/small neck measurements, I’ve found it. This thing is a lifesaver and the straps are made from recycled water bottles – bonus. (Note: runs small)

2/ Lemon Tree
Plants are therapeutic for me, and I picked up one of these little guys during a plant buying binge. I liked the idea of trying to grow it so much that I bought my Grandma one for Mother’s Day, too. No doubt hers will be five feet tall before mine hits 18-inches!

3/ Native Union Night Cable
This ten-foot long cable is amazing for charging your phone and devices while lounging in bed. The weighted knot anchors it to any surface, so you’re not left searching for your fallen phone when the alarm goes off in the morning.

4/ Elemental Coffee
My favorite coffee from when I lived in Oklahoma City remains my favorite 2 1/2 years post-move. The small batch roastery imports and roasts their own, and you can order a subscription service to show up on your doorstep. I highly recommend the Perusha.

5/ NARS Velvet Matte Lip Pencil in Red Square
A classic orangey-red that looks amazing on any skin tone, it’s been my go-to for a few years.

6/ Case Study Bentwood Tray Table
I rely on this tray table in the evenings, when I’m sitting on the couch with the dogs and either listening to records or half paying attention to something on television. It’s a great height and wide enough that I can sit crosslegged under it.

7/ Bebe drawn by Preserve a Moment
The super talented Susanne Kasielke drew my pup, Bebe, from a photo I’d shared in Instagram months ago. Her work is top-notch and I suspect it won’t be long until I commission her to illustrate my other pup as well!

8/ Tadesse Bucket Bag
The perfect bag for summer, its roomy interior provides so much space for essentials while the drawstring closure keeps it all secure. (It’s also available in a mini size and several colors of leather!)

9/ Yucca Plant
I had no clue that yucca plants could survive outdoors in Pennsylvania, or that I had three in my front yard, or that they bloom sporadically! Mine sprouted some tall stalks just about overnight, now I’m waiting for their white bell-like flowers to bloom.

Posted In bags, beauty bag, create, favorites, food, furniture, house and home, illustration, living, outdoors, pets, series, style, technology, wear it
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May 1, 2017

Learn Something New with Brit + Co!

 

This year I’ve found myself in a gigantic creative rut that I’m constantly trying to dig myself out of. My Instagram quote series helps some, photoshoots can be creative, but sometimes the only way out is to learn something new. Just the idea of that can be overwhelming, but what if someone broke it down for you? Maybe they put together an easy online class that you can watch as many times as you need and the entire thing is affordable?

Well, that’s just what Brit + Co has done with 67 different skills, from succulent gardening to digitizing artwork and 65 things in between. New classes are being released all the time and a few are even free! 

Five of you have the chance to win two classes each, right here, right now. Maybe you want to pick up your DSLR camera and know what you’re doing or maybe you want to pass them on to your mom or an upcoming graduate. Read on to check out my favorite classes and enter the giveaway below!

 

 

Calligraphy 101
Calligraphy extraordinaire Lauren Essl covers all the need-to-know basics of pointed pen calligraphy. During the class, she’ll walk you through everything from your basic supply list to the right way to dip your pen. She’ll also take you step-by-step through basic script technique for numbers, uppercase, and lowercase letters. Not only will you walk away with beautiful hand-lettered greeting cards to share with your friends, you’ll also get alphabet templates, grids, and practice sheets.

Phone Photography Basics
Learn how to expertly shoot and edit photos while on the move! Using just your smartphone, you’ll learn how to capture beautiful photos on any occasion. With pro editing tips and a few styling tricks, you’re going to own the Instagram game. How? You’ll learn how to setup the trendy flat lay shot, find and shoot in natural light and make photos pop with in-app filters.

 

 

Intro to Adobe Photoshop
In this class, you’ll learn how to create eye-catching photos and layouts like a pro with graphic designer Teela Cunningham. Her class is an awesome confidence booster when it comes to learning the ins and outs of the Adobe Photoshop interface. You’ll walk away from the class equipped with the skills to create photos and graphics that can be used on social media, a blog or as a personalized gift.

 

 

Bounce Lettering Basics
Brittany Luiz is going to teach you a unique style of brush pen lettering called bounce lettering. It’s a technique that adds more style and character to your lettering designs. And don’t worry if your handwriting isn’t that great because lettering is more than learning how to draw letters. It’s really about learning the strokes and how to apply the right pressure to your brush pen.

 

 

Intro to DSLR Photography
This class is perfect for those who have invested in a fancy camera but haven’t learned how to use it yet. Jenna will teach you the ins and outs of your DSLR camera, from exposure settings, shooting in auto and manual, and what various lenses should be used for. Finally, she’ll walk you through setting up the best conditions for your very own photoshoot.

 

 

Digitize Artwork in Adobe Illustrator
In this course, you’ll learn how to turn quick ink illustrations into versatile digital files that you can use as fun and colorful wallpapers for your desktop and phone. You’ll leave the class with two digital wallpapers to call your own. Plus, you’ll get access to four additional designs that you can use for practice. Think of all the art prints, textiles, stationery and wallpaper you can create!

 

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Posted In create, living, series, technology, win it
10
April 27, 2017

April Favorites

 

1/ Tea Tree Oil
I’ve been using this stuff in multiples ways, including in my diffuser and on blemishes.

2/ PureAir 50
This little plug-in ionic air purifier is amazing. It cleans 350 sq. ft. of air by removing odors and reducing bacteria and viruses with activated oxygen. I have mine next to the cats’ litter box – the danger zone! – and noticed a total elimination of smell within about 15 minutes. It emits a kind of white noise sound when turned on, but I quickly got used to it.

3/ Lamb’s Ear
After years of admiration, I added one of these perennials to my porch collection. I’m hoping to keep it in a pot rather than have to plant it in the ground, but only time will tell how the plant tolerates it.

4/ Froozer Blue Aloha
These super natural treats are basically a frozen smoothie in a tube. They’re super tasty with only 35 calories and 9 carbs, which is a necessity for snacks with this type 2 diabetic.

5/ Common Goods Lavender Linen Water
I’ve been using this on my bedsheets for a few years now, I’m a real sucker for anything lavender scented as you may have noticed. This linen water is scented with 100% pure essential oil, is plant based, and biodegradable.

6/ Function of Beauty
Everyone’s been chattering about this line of shampoos and conditioners can that be personalized to your hair’s specific needs, and I’m here to report that the hype is 100% true! I love it and may never use another brand ever again. (Grab $5 off your order here.)

7/ Round Taper Planters
This spring I had to replace the large bamboo planters I’ve used for the past several years due to normal wear and tear. I wanted something simple and affordable that would complement my new black shutters and came across these fade and weather resistant ones at Target. They’re available in four colors and seven sizes! (I also have four of the 6-inch ones indoors)

8/ Vineyard Hill Naturals Cardamom & Fig Candle
You might think this scent sounds a bit heavy for spring, but it’s quite the opposite. And the soy-based candle’s jar is one I’ll definitely be reusing with that Greek key pattern.

9/ Spruce Cleaning Wipes
I’m kind of the worst at keeping my electronics clean, and these little wipes are a fun reminder (those faces!) to wipe everything down – they’re also great for your eyeglasses. Made in the USA, free of harsh chemicals like alcohol and ammonia, and vegan.

Posted In accessories, beauty bag, favorites, food, grow it, house and home, living, outdoors, series, style, technology
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March 30, 2017

March Favorites

 

1/ Alba Botanica Acnedote
That’s right, I’m still on the hunt for the perfect skin regiment. I finally have the right level of moisture (just as the seasons change again, of course), but am randomly experiencing breakouts. I’m using the Deep Pore Wash, Deep Clean Astringent, and Clean ‘n Treat Towelettes, and thought it’s only been a few days I feel like I’m seeing and feeling the difference.

2/ Kate Somerville Goat Milk Moisturizing Cream
I’ve had this moisturizer in the rotation since last December and really love it. It’s good for all skin types and evens out tone while brightening your complexion, for these reasons it’s usually my morning moisturizing cream.

3/ Lavender Essential Oil
Lavender is one of my all-time favorite scents, so I definitely use this in my diffuser. But lavender oil is also an antibacterial and I’ve been using it to spot treat breakouts, especially ones that I haven’t been able to keep my hands off of. (Ugh.)

4/ Miss Jones Baking Co.
These guys use only the highest quality ingredients and it really comes through in their boxed baking mixes. Plant-based, responsibly sourced, and free of all kinds of other junk, it’s also organic! The brownies are seriously the best boxed mix I’ve ever made.

5/ Printic App Photos Box
Download the app then choose fifty of your favorite Instagram photos and Printic will print and deliver them in a sweet little box. I love the vintage Polaroid-like style! Use code B9962C for $7 off your order.

6/ RXBAR
Everything inside these insanely good protein bars is *literally* right on the (well-designed) packaging. It’s real food and the main ingredients are egg whites, nuts, and dates no matter the flavor. I’ve been having either a blueberry one for breakfast or a chocolate sea salt for an evening snack almost daily.

7/ Sustainable Youth
About a month ago three of their products made it into my bedtime skincare rotation – Super Boost Night Serum, Ultra Creamy Cleansing Lotion, and Anytime Lift Eye Treatment. My favorite is the serum, formulated to rejuvenate while you get your shuteye.

8/ Trigg Vases
I love how versatile these vessels are. Use them as vases, planters, utensil holders, desk accessories and more. They come as a set of two and the ceramic body can even be oriented two different ways in the wire frame.

9/ Vitamin C Serum
Another new addition to my morning routine is a few drop of this serum all over my face. Since I started using it I’ve noticed a brighter complexion as well as decrease in dark spots from old acne.

Posted In accessories, beauty bag, favorites, food, house and home, living, series, style, technology
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March 21, 2017

18 Apps You Need On Your Phone

Alder
Gives you one relevant political action everyday to keep you focused.

Bear
A beautiful, flexible writing app for crafting notes and prose.

BloomThat
The best way to send flowers and gifts – period.

Countable
Makes learning about what your government is up to easy and fun. Learn about issues you care about, influence Congress with one tap voting, and rally your friends around specific legislation.

 

CUPS
The key to finding and supporting your city’s independent cafes.

Daylight
Tells you about daylight changes and notifies you when the days are getting longer.

Everlance
Makes tracking your mileage and expenses effortless.

Jim.Coach
The gym workout app for normal people.

 

Pawprint
One place for your pet’s medical records, feeding instructions, reminders, and even photos.

PhotoScan
Lets you scan and save your favorite printed photos using your camera’s phone.

Planner 5D
Enables anyone to create beautiful and realistic home interior designs easily in 2D and 3D HD models online or offline.

Quik
In seconds this app analyzes your video footage to find great moments, adds beautiful transitions and effects, and syncs everything to the beat of music.

 

Radish
Gives you early access to the latest web fictions serials from top writers.

ScreenUse
Tracks the amount and length of your mobile sessions, getting you in control of your mobile consumption.

Sun Surveyor
This app takes the mystery out of the sunrise, sunset, and moon phases, allowing photographers and filmmakers to scout the best locations, plan effectively, and get the perfect shot.

Vivono Wine Scanner
Your partner in wine, always with you and ready to help you pick, remember and share your wines.

 

Voices
Support the groups and causes you care about.

Whistle
Anonymously share sexism anywhere, anytime. Where you work, play, study, while you watch TV – wherever you see or experience sexism.

Posted In living, round up, series, technology
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March 15, 2017

Ding Smart Doorbell

 

Ding is a beautifully simple smart doorbell that allows you to talk with the person at your front door from anywhere in the world. The sleek doorbell button attached near your front door, the modern chime sits or hangs anywhere in your home, and the free app lives on your phone – it’s really easy. Ding comes in a selection of colors to match your decor, and of course can you silence the chime if you need some quiet time.

 

 

 

 

Posted In accents, house and home, living, technology
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January 20, 2017

Plume

 

Routers seem to be the main cause of WiFi frustration. They only work when placed in the so-called perfect spot and aren’t equipped to handle the needs of a busy home full of tech. Plume puts the router in the cloud, adapting in real-time to the devices and habits in your home. With a small Plume pod in each room you can now work, play, listen, and connect everywhere with a strong signal.

 

 

 

Posted In create, grand design, house and home, living, technology
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