Taking Stock

 

firmoo glasses

firmoo glasses

firmoo glasses

firmoo glasses

firmoo glasses

 

 

Making:
 my house super shiny and clean. because it feels oh so good. you know, for that ONE whole day that it stays that way.

Cooking:
 dinner. every night. which if you know me at all is not something that used to do. pretty sure i was certain i was allergic to the kitchen in the past. but now, i have a hard-working man that comes home tired and hungry. so send me your best (and easiest) recipes. 

Drinking:
 diet coke. i'm back on the wagon. 

Reading:
 i keep alternating between books but haven't found something i love. what are you reading?

Wanting:
 for this new job opportunity that's knocking at my door to work out great. it's got a LOT of potential.... keep your toes crossed for me. this one could be life-changing folks.

Looking:
 at Molly, waiting to go outside to play and wait for her daddy to come home

Playing:
 Grey's Anatomy....over and over, again and again. it's my happy place.

Wasting:
 money on lots of boring bills when i want to be having adventures.

Sewing:
 new exciting hoop art with shiny shiny beads. hey who knew hand-beading took forever!?

Wishing:
 for just a bit of change. or maybe a big change.... ya, a big exciting change sounds so sweet right now.

Enjoying:
 quiet mornings with a cuddly pup, an empty house and full remote control

Waiting:
 for my fella to come home.... always and forever waiting for him to come home. even though I like the quiet house and control of the remote; i like him even more.

Liking:
 watching all my plants grow and for once in my life not having a black thumb.

Wondering:
 if i SHOULD be doing the dishes instead of writing this post but realizing there are always dishes and they can wait a bit.

Loving: 
that i finally feel like a grown up with goals, dreams and a daily desire to get there. folks, i even go to bed at 9pm every night!

Hoping:
 that i actually commit to starting cardio barre next week like i keep promising myself that i will.... you can do it!

Marveling:
 at how quickly the time always goes by. we've almost lived in LA for 3 years now and are coming up on our 6-year anniversary this fall. holy wow.

Needing:
 a genuine soul session with my deepest girl friends. gosh i wish they didn't live 1000miles away!

Smelling:
 a totally clean house (except for those dishes) and feeling proud that I worked my booty off to get it that way yesterday.

Wearing:
 my incredible new FIRMOO sunnies that go from indoor to out. I cannot tell you how much i loooooove these glasses and how easy they were to order! plus they were so inexpensive! you MUST get yourself a pair pronto!

Following:
 this great IG'er whose photos make me want to eat WAY better, this GORGEOUS bff of mine whose face i cannot get enough of and who i literally want to text 100 times a day & this beautiful friend who makes the very best food i've ever tasted and whose cooking videos with her daughter make me laugh and cry because they are THE sweetest

Noticing:
my house is getting darker and the night is getting later and i should definitely be cooking dinner by now....oops!

Feeling:
 so so tired all the time but anxious to see what awaits just around the corner.... i'm telling you...bring it big exciting change.

Opening:
 my shop.... someday....hopefully soon!

xoxo

If you want more seriously beautiful posts be sure to follow along with:

 

Datevitation + a giveaway

When my fella and I moved to California two years ago the most difficult part for me was knowing that I wasn't going to be close by my bestest girl friend. You know, that person that you can hang out in PJ's all day with while wearing funny mud masks on your face and watching a-mazing shows like Sex in the City on repeat like it WAS the greatest thing to ever be on TV. cause it maybe was.

Well when I got to thinking this year what in the world I could possibly get her for Christmas that would come close to filling in that time we no longer have together.... I was seriously lost. It's not like I can jump on a plane and just hug her face... this girl has bills to pay.

That's why when I got an email from the awesome Datevitation telling me about their unique love coupon books I was thrilled. I'd actually made one a year or so ago for my fella for Valentine's Day and I just KNEW it would be the perfect gift (with that personal touch) to make my bestie feel like I was still around.

 

 I got right to work customizing and choosing fun "dates" for me and her based on all our favorite things to do. And with over 500 date ideas to choose from on their website; how could I go wrong finding just the right ones for our friendship?

Now, my bestie could be reminded of all the fun things we like to do together as well as have a PROMISE by me that we'll continue to do them. Because now, every time I'm in town, she can cash in one of her "coupons" from her love book (because love includes all different kinds of relationships) and know that I still value our time together as best friends. And it's great for me too because I still get the benefit of hanging out with her! Win, freaking, win! 

And luckily for all of you.... Datevitation wants you to be able to give these great love coupon books as your holiday gifts too! So right NOW can you use the code: ‘BLENDINGS10’  for $10 off your purchase plus free shipping (total value of $13.50)  That means you can get your loved one a one-of-a-kind gift for Christmas starting at just $15!  The order cut-off date for guaranteed delivery by Christmas is December 13 so make sure to get your order in before then!

AND because Datevitation is such a rad, family run business (just check out Alex propose to Olga in a video they posted on Youtube as a "Save the Date") they are also giving away a book for one of you to personalize and give to someone special! Thanks so much to Daveitation!

a Rafflecopter giveaway  

If you want more seriously beautiful posts be sure to follow along with:

 

beautiful sponsor {paperclouds} + giveaway

Today I have a beautiful sweet friend and sponsor to introduce you to.
Give a special welcome to Madaline of Paperclouds.

1. When did you begin your blog/shop and why?

I started Paper Clouds last August (Happy Birthday PC!) as a second creative outlet for myself. I'm a full time Graphic Designer for my church but wanted a second creative outlet where I could share my talents with others.  People knew I was a Graphic Designer but I don't think they really knew WHAT a Graphic Designer was and how they could benefit from my talents.

Paper Clouds has given me a platform and a voice to share my talents as well as share my faith with those that are interested all the while getting something fun, pretty and purposeful!

2. What has been your greatest challenge as a handmade owner?

One of the biggest things of course is comparing yourself to others!  It really doesn't matter how many sales you've got in your shop, how many people talk about you on Twitter, or that they didn't even know who you are.  Not to mention you are CONSTANTLY having to put yourself out there!  I'm the worlds worst about actually asking you to buy my product.  I hate being pushy, because well I don't like pushy!  If you like my products -- FANTASTIC! It means the world to me!

3. What's your favorite product to create?

By far one of my top favorite things is notecards!  And the personalized or monogrammed ones are my favorites!  I love seeing what color combos people choose.  Mostly ones I never even thought of!

Woo Pig Razorbacks Notecards (12 pack)

Pink Herringbone Notecards (12 pack)

4. What are your top 5 favorite shops/blogs?

The blogs I check daily are:

1. Jones Design Company:: so inspiring, creative, a wonderfully Godly woman.

2. Under The Sycamore:: mother, creator, crazy creative, and so Godly an passionate about her faith

3. Design by LuLu:: recently discovered, designer, creative, and cute paper goods!

4. Design Editor:: another recent find, but a lovely simple designer

5. Emily Lime Design:: if you were to look through my recent etsy purchases...you would see ALL of her fonts.  I'm a sucker for a good font. 

5. Favorite experience as a shop owner?

SO MANY! Christmas was an awesome time for me last year!  I was just getting started with my shop and had tons of custom orders for presents as well as Christmas Cards.  Each one was unique and I spent a lot of time looking for inspiration and the perfect envelopes to match the cards!  I can't wait for this year!!

Thanks so much for listening to me ramble. I've got a ton of new products in the works!

Blog //Facebook// Twitter//Etsy// Newsletter

*Those that sign up for my newsletter get instant access to free printables as well as staying up to date on the newest Paper Clouds happenings and discount codes!

<<<     >>>

Isn't Madaline so sweet? I just love her notecards. She sent me a pack awhile back and I use them constantly for quick customer thank you's as well as just saying hello to a friend. 

Right now you can save 15% off your order at Paperclouds by using the code: BEAUTIES15

And we've also got a giveaway for you today. Madaline is giving away a customized return address stamp! She's JUST added these to her shop and they are absolutely gorgeous! I will definitely be getting my hands on one of these for business AND personal use. 

a Rafflecopter giveaway

{Sponsor Love} Poshlocket + giveaway!

I'm one of those girls who has never been really great at accessorizing. I own all sorts of necklaces, headbands, scarves, earrings, rings..... all of it. But when it comes down to planning out what I'm going to wear; basically as soon as I'm not naked I feel ready to go. :)

But the older I become (ugh, older, such an ugly sounding word).... I realize that I like looking good and that involves accessories! But when you want something beautiful and quality that will last you a long time... it's gonna cost ya.

I have your solution.

This adorable online store is not only filled with gorgeous unique jewelry of kinds; BUT it's also SUPER affordable. And that couldn't come at a better time when the holidays are fast approaching and I have almost NONE of my shopping done! Eek!

Here are some of my favorite items:

{1} {2} {3} {4}

And I also am loving my new Starlite Stud Earrings they graciously sent me last week.  They are simple yet elegant and can either dress up an outfit or just be worn casually on a daily basis {which is great for easy-going, non-accessory-prone girls like moi}. 

AND, the lovelies at Poshlocket are graciously wanting to give one of you a pair of the gold starlite studs! So how do you enter to win those beauties?

::How to Enter::

  

*Must follow my blog, does not count as an entry*

{1} Subscribe to Poshlocket's mailing list and leave a comment letting me know you did.

{2} Visit their site and let me know what you would buy as a gift.

{3}  Follow Poshlocket on facebook and let me know you did.

{4) Follow Poshlocket on twitter and let me know you did.

{5} Blog, Tweet or Facebook about this givewaway and tell me what you did. 

Feel free to use this:
 Dear Santa, please let there be something shiny from @Poshlocket under my tree or just let me win @TBlendings #giveaway http://bit.ly/ulbEAK

ALSO don't miss out on their 20% SALE {with FREE SHIPPING} happening now with the code: HOLIDAY20

GOOD LUCK! 

Winner will be announced December 16th!

What I Wore. ShopKempt + {giveaway}[closed]

I have a pretty serious obsession. I've been swooning over it. Drooling over it. Bookmarking and pinning over it. And now I have it. The prettiest clothes I've ever owned. And no joke, they got here in 24 hours. It was the fastest, most exciting package I've even torn from the UPS man's hands. He's ok.

What is it?

 

Such a beautiful amazing site with GORGEOUS clothes. I spent SO many hours looking at the gorgeous clothes/accessories on this site before I finally got to bring some home. And I couldn't be happier with what I have. 

{CORAL TOP}

 

 Top:: ShopKempt, Leggings::F21, Boots::Thrifted, Scarf::F21

 

It's such a great top that I seriously wear it every week. And if you live someone colder than California you could easily add a long sweater on top to warm it up. I did this weekend for pumpkin carving. :)

{Grey Short-sleeved Sweater}

Sweater::ShopKempt, Tank::F21, Jeans::Old Navy, Earrings::Gift, Cowl::BBShop

This gray sweater is so comfy for any day but today I wore it for my interview. It has just a little bit of sparkle in the front and the deep V-neck is great for layering it if I need some extra warmth.

What's even better? ShopKempt has agreed to do a giveaway for my lovely readers! But of course!

Want to know how you can win?

How to Enter the GIVEAWAY:

1. You must be a follower of my blog, visit ShopKempt and leave a comment telling me what you'd buy with your $40.

2. Follow ShopKempt on Twitter.  {one entry}

3. Follow ShopKempton Facebook and leave them a comment saying I sent ya. {one entry}

4. Tweet about this giveaway: I just entered @TBlendings givewaway to win $40 to @ShopKempt for some lovelies. You can too!  http://bit.ly/vN2Jui 

5. Follow any of BeautifulBlendings extras and tell me which {additional entries for each}  

That's a lot of choices! Giveaway ends November 9th at midnight. Winners will be announced the following day. Please be sure to leave your email so I can contact you! 

Good luck!

new in november

I've been working really hard this past week at a new collection for my shop for the winter. It's the first time I've even had the idea to try and make an actual cohesive "collection" and I'm pretty excited about it. I have new products and even new designs. It's not ready yet but I'm hoping that by next month it will be ready to unveil. For now, here's a sneak peak of what you may find....

{something special for your wrist}

And also for the month of November, you can sponsor Beautiful Blendings for just $5. That's right. Just five bucks. This is the BEST opportunity for someone with a new blog or shop that wants some rad promotion or for the seasoned blogger/shop owner who is looking for new traffic at a great price. 

If you have more questions or want to sponsor.... email me. 

beautifulblendings{at}gmail{dot}com

Twillypop {and a giveaway} [closed]

I know that I've been MIA for SO long. And I wish I had known to plan some fun guest posts for you; but I sincerely thought that my one day, 15-hr drive would be just that.... and that once I got to California, I'd totally be able to pick back up and start writing fun things for you.
Well that didn't happen.....obviously. 
And I'm sorry about it too.

But in order to win your love back.....
I have some fun stories to tell you.{which will happen later in the week}
AND today.....

I have a fun lady that I la-la-LOVE to introduce you to. And she may just be offering something FANtastic to you also.  But before you read how to win, read about my friend Sara. Cause she's totally one of those ladies that you'd be really honored to know. I know I am.

  Handmade Brooches || Earrings ||  Necklaces || Bracelets || Teen || and many more

 And now the beautiful Sara......

I just adore her.

And she adores you.

Here's what you can win.

What an amazing lady.

Want to know how you can win?

How to Enter the GIVEAWAY:

1. You must be a follower of my blog.

2. Follow Sara's BLOG {one entry}

3. Follow Twillypop on Twitter {one entry}

4. Follow Twillypop on Facebook {one entry}

5. Heart Twillypop on Etsy {one entry}

6. Follow any of BeautifulBlendings extras and tell me which {additional entries for each} 

That's a lot of choices! Giveaway ends October 2nd at midnight. Winners will be announced the following day. 

Sweet Sweet

email for deets.

This is a seriously smoking deal. And you can begin/end anytime.

super special awesomeness

EMAIL or COMMENT to let me know if you're interested. Can also include giveaway if you'd like. Let's chat. Xo.

Want to be a sponsor?

beautifulblendings{at}gmail{com}

Where's Waldo? Or, BB?

Guess what guys? I am super excited to tell you that if you search the bloggy world you can now find evidence of BB {Beautiful Blendings} on three of the MOST wonderful blog pages! I'm super stinking excited to call myself a sponsor and so without further ado (or searching on your part) I will now show you where you can find me.....

ONE.

LITTLE MISS MOMMA
Her blog is just the most adorable and I love how much she shares her heart about being a mom and being a woman. I'm so lucky to be a sponsor on her page! Look for the button below.

TWO.

THE WIEGAND'S
Have I mentioned about enough times already how much I LOVE LOVE LOVE Casey? She is the most amazing friend I've never met and if you haven't seen her amazing artwork, family or smile you should get to it! You can find the button below on her blog and also an amazing feature of me and a GIVEAWAY of my headbands there too!

THREE.

ARTICHOKE DESIGNS
Besides the fantastic name (I think artichokes are the yummiest) I love this blog because of all the creativity! This gal takes a-mazing photos and her craft swap is pretty rad also. You can find the button below (ok, yes the same as the first) on her blog.

I do really want to thank these ladies for allowing me to be a part of their blog and to sponsor them. I think they are all fabulous and I love being able to support what they do. Want to be a sponsor too? Email your fav blogger and see how you can get in on the fun.

Beautiful Blendings will be taking sponsors (FOR UBER AWESOME DEALS) soon! So if you'd like to get in on the fun; start here! Email me : beautifulblendings{at}gmail{dot}com or click here.