Sew Much Sunshine [to the square inch]

The Fanciest of Tigers

2012-02-24T09:27:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago a friend & I went to the grand re-opening of my favorite craft store in Denver, namely Fancy Tiger Crafts. Here are some pictures of the new store. I can't wait to spend lots of time & money here! I love shopping local & supporting small businesses. If you're in the Denver area, be sure to check them out! & don't forget the blog!

Happy Lent & have a happy weekend!

Latest Obsession Trend: Arrows

2012-01-27T08:25:00.001-07:00

Maybe Cupid has hit me, maybe it's just the slightest addition to the Chevron trend, or maybe it's the ever-forward pointing essence of arrows, but *cue Randall's honey badger voice* I've been stuuuung. I'm no forecaster of trends, but I think arrows are going to be big this year. There's something so sophisticated about this simple symbol (how's that for alliteration?!). I'm loving arrows.

I'm planning on painting a huge arrow on canvas to hang in the apartment (should be pretty sweet).

[source]

Any symbol/trend you find yourself loving lately?

Have a great weekend!

Valentine's Day Gift Idea for the Honey

2012-01-23T08:49:00.000-07:00

For my 21st birthday, my boyfriend made me this. I think it would be perfect for anyone to give his or her honey on Valentine's Day. It's homemade, affordable, and meaningful!

Be creative. Play off the number theme.

You could compose a book counting down from 10 or even 100. Use an anniversary number. Anything. Just plan your numbers, find some nice fonts, type, print on pretty paper, hole punch & tie together with a ribbon.

He started from 21 & counted down to one. It was such a great gift. Even two years later I'm still proudly displaying it. Such a treasure!

Here are a few pages for some ideas:

An Issue Too Important Not to Blog About

2012-01-22T10:57:00.003-07:00

This post might make you feel.

It might make you feel mad, inspired, annoyed, relieved, angry, upset, insecure, sad, or any other emotions that get stirred up when this heated issue is discussed.

Proceed at your own risk.

Today is a solemn anniversary in America.

Abortion is a heavy issue. Regardless of your stance on this issue, I'd like you to ask you one question: do you know of someone who has (or have you yourself) had an abortion? I bet if we were in a room together, nearly all of us would answer YES. We all are affected by abortion, in some way, shape, or form.

The Pro-Life movement is something that is near & dear to my heart, and so not blogging about something this important would be against my better instincts. It's an issue that has been taboo for far too long.

Did you know Norma McCorvey, also famously known as Jane Roe in Roe v. Wade, is PRO-LIFE. She has devoted her life to overturning a law that she was responsible for creating. Hearts can be changed!

I was sitting in O.R.'s offices when I noticed a fetal development poster. The progression was so obvious, the eyes were so sweet. It hurt my heart, just looking at them. I ran outside and finally, it dawned on me. 'Norma', I said to myself, 'They're right'. I had worked with pregnant women for years. I had been through three pregnancies and deliveries myself. I should have known. Yet something in that poster made me lose my breath. I kept seeing the picture of that tiny, 10-week-old embryo, and I said to myself, that's a baby! It's as if blinders just fell off my eyes and I suddenly understood the truth — that's a baby!

I felt crushed under the truth of this realization. I had to face up to the awful reality. Abortion wasn't about 'products of conception'. It wasn't about 'missed periods'. It was about children being killed in their mother's wombs. All those years I was wrong. Signing that affidavit, I was wrong. Working in an abortion clinic, I was wrong. No more of this first trimester, second trimester, third trimester stuff. Abortion — at any point — was wrong. It was so clear. Painfully clear.

You may be asking: What can I do?
Well, for one, we can stop being silent about this. This issue has been taboo long enough. Talk about it with your friends, mothers, boyfriends, husbands, mentors, sisters, anyone who will listen. Let them know that you are there for them.
Open up the dialogue. Ask for or offer help.

I'm not trying to preach at you or chide you. I'm trying to give you a new perspective, to point out truths you may be unaware of, to open your heart a little bit, to challenge you, to shake you out of complacency.

[source]

Enjoying The Little Things

2012-01-20T06:24:00.001-07:00

The fun little things this week included:

tulips,

freshly polished nails,

skiing,

bubble baths,

cinnamon Life (the breakfast of champions),

homemade sushi

& beautiful mountains.

Here's to finishing the week strong & to a great weekend!

New Year's in New York City

2012-01-04T06:46:00.000-07:00

Spending New Year's in New York City was beyond amazing. The hustle and bustle of the city and the fresh promise of a new year.

Late Thursday we reunited. Lauren, Annie, Rikesh, Emily & me. I love that in just a matter of weeks we became so close that even after seven months, we picked right back up where we left off.

We started out with a late dinner at a Mexican restaurant just a block away from Em's. If you want food at your fingertips, think NYC. Mexican at 11pm? Boom. One block.

Waking up to this view was incredible. I relished in the crisp, cool air that pooled into the window and the constant hum of yellow cabs and traveling people.

We once again became aware of our differences and celebrated them.

Intoxicated by the smell alone, we devoured the world's best and biggest cookie. It. Was. Heavenly.

Made a quick stop by Rockefeller Plaza to see this beauty. What a spectacle! I cannot believe I saw it in person! Twinkling and humongous.

Having Emily as an insider was so fun. I've been to NYC a few times but had never been to High Line Park. Quaint and refreshing. It's a railroad track turned park raised slightly above the city. The views were simply remarkable.

We enjoyed our roles as tourists and snapped quite a few pictures to savor the memories and moods of the trip.

We were even graced with great lighting (AKA Twilight Hour).

Chelsea Market was also one of my favorite gems. I got a dainty little bracelet at an indie fair taking place. So magical.

Ate my first Macaron (how do you pronounce this word? Is it macaroon? I always get confused), and quite enjoyed it.

The City that Never Sleeps rises to the occasion come nightfall.

My friends are models, didn't you know.

Enjoying a delicious dinner at a restaurant in Little Italy. Immortalized La Florida 2012 by carving it into the table.

Hit up Ferrara, America's first espresso bar (hence the napkin). So. Good.

Espresso afogatto, oh my heart.

We had so much fun taking these timer pictures. I slightly feel like we are in a Macy's ad.

Freedom Tower

Said goodbye to this fun adventure and my beautiful friends. The sunset lit up the buildings in the gentlest of fashions creating an even more lovely last view.

2011 ended with a bang and it was such an overwhelmingly great year that I only hope 2012 will be too. I'm learning that life is what you make of it and it's an occasion you must rise to. An adventure lies behind every corner, and sometimes you've got to go find it. Thank you New York for my first adventure of the year. Thousands more to come. That's what I'm looking forward to. Boom.

2011 Recap

2012-01-03T08:21:00.000-07:00

2011 was very good to me. I look back fondly on the beautiful and plentiful memories. Here's some of the memorable moments from it:

In 2011, I:

Went to Paris with Cass

Started a blog

Went to a wedding in Arizona

Went skiing for $15

Watched the Royal Wedding

Spent a month in Peru

Visited Ohio

Opened up shop on Etsy

Vacationed in Alaska

Began living in the same city as Finn

Turned 23

Celebrated a cousin's 30th birthday in Las Vegas

Dog sat (a lot)

Moved into an apartment by myself

Reunited with my college friends in Nebraska

Visited Estes Park

Visited Philadelphia by myself

Participated in my first craft fair

Reunited with some of the friends from Peru

Spent New Year's Eve in New York City

I probably wouldn't have guessed half of these adventures, but I'm so glad and blessed to have had them. 2011 was a great year, and I look forward to the promise and newness of 2012.

Happy New Year!

Christmas 2011 Recap

2011-12-27T08:07:00.000-07:00

Christmas this year was so great; one of the best. Spent at home in the company of pups and family.

We attended midnight Mass, which was so spectacular. Truly a marvel to welcome the Christ child in the cold and dark wee hours of the morning.

It was a white Christmas after all. No new snow, but plenty on the ground to keep it white.

Hunter & his buddy, Amos, enjoyed spending three solid days together. They donned their gay apparel for the special day.

As you can tell by that expression, the Hunter calendar was a hit! A great surprise, because we didn't think it would arrive in time!

One of Hunter's presents was a stuffed Woodstock who was chewed apart within minutes. Typical.

A few of my favorite gifts:

Antique spools bought & used by my great-grandmother, Alma. Gifted to me by my grandmother. So sentimental and wonderful.

Stove-top espresso maker (which I've already used twice) from Grandma.

Ski helmet from ~~my mom~~ Santa (much needed)

New moccasins from the sister

My favorite gift of all was being able to spend time with the family. It was so nice and refreshing. We played games, watched movies, played in the snow, cuddled up, sipped some warm beverages, ate fudge, baked, and more. I even came away the Christmas Eve poker winner! YES.

Merry Christmas season (it's still going, folks)!

The Gift that Keeps Giving All Year Long! (Clark)

2011-12-22T04:56:00.000-07:00

Teaming up on gifts this year, G & I were stumped when it came time to pick out gifts for my dad. Besides his family and friends, he loves three things: stocks, football, and Hunter.

Stocks, well, we can't afford a share of Apple... sooo kind of out of the question.

Football, did I mention he's a Colt fan? WORST record in the league... yeah....

Hunter, hmm there's an idea. In years past my dad has received framed pictures, but we thought... hey, a calendar keeps giving all year long!

So, calendar it was.

Here are a few snippets. I used winkflash again, because I was very impressed with their quality & affordability. & they had a 40% off special going (still running until December 26th), score!

Also, we were a little late in the game on this gift, so it won't be ready until the 27th. Here's what he's getting as a consolation prize. It's a bit of a family inside joke, based on this post (which although serious and sad, makes me almost pee my pants every time... cat was found; all is well that ends well).

This little gem will be July:

The quote says: "A dog doesn't care if you're rich or poor, big or small, young or old. He doesn't care if you're not smart, not popular, not a good joke-teller, not the best athlete, nor the best-looking person. To your dog, you are the greatest, the smartest, the nicest human being who was ever born. You are his friend and his protector." -Louis Sabin

& this one will be December:

Ho ho ho! Merry Christmas! Any fun Christmas gifts you're giving?

Rejoice!

2011-12-21T03:32:00.000-07:00

I spent the weekend relishing in the season: exchanging gifts, spending time with family, celebrating mass, seeing the Nutcracker ballet.

Last night we had our annual Christmas gift exchange, a delicious dinner & we went to the Blossom of Lights at the Denver Botanic Gardens.

Lights and merriment.

Laughter and memories.

We played Christmas carols from our coats (thank you smart phone + Pandora) We may have upset the scrooges around, but it made our spirits light and tuned us into the spirit of the season. Our toes froze & subsequently warmed in that peculiar spicy painful way.

It was a merry night.

Yours waiting in joyful hope,

Cold Hands Warm Heart Swap 2011

2011-12-14T02:32:00.000-07:00

I was so excited to be a part of this year's Cold Hands, Warm Hearts.

I was paired with the lovely Jacky from The Sweetest Petunia (love her!).

Opening & getting so excited at the goodies peeking out.

She even included a special recipe! So sweet.

Luscious red nail polish & two softlips chapsticks! Lucky me! The gloves are so warm and comfortable.

I'd have to say that the homemade scarf is my favorite. It is so cozy & perfect for this chilly weather (not to mention customized with two of my favorite colors)!

And I'll leave you with this ~~awkward~~ precious gem. Keep Love in Christmas!

Thanks to Ilene & Sandy for hosting! Stop by & give them some love.

With ~~cold~~ warm hands, an open heart & new bangs,

Craft Fair Recap

2011-12-08T04:32:00.000-07:00

Groggy & snowy, getting ready to head to the fair

Vintage sheet + black table cloth from Good Will. The table before...

And after... not too shabby for my first attempt!

Action shot!

My sweet sleeping pup & the bed that I made him (a bit furry).

Happy Thursday!

I was nervous going into this experience, but it was a risk well taken. I learned a lot about growing a hand-made business, and hope to implement these in the coming days and beyond.

Christmases of Olde

2011-12-07T08:33:00.000-07:00

I wrote some Christmas cards yesterday (courtesy moonbeamwishes) & it got me into the festive spirit!

This time of year brings back so many positive memories from prior years. Here are a few of the fun ones from the last few.

Roommate Christmas card 2008. Please note the onesie pajamas...

Tomfoolery in 2010 (this was taken in the Tabor Center, not our living room)

The beautiful parentals 2010

Scrooge 2010

Christmas Card 2010

Dining in Castle Rock 2010

Our Fraser Fir (my first real Christmas tree) 2009. With homemade star!

"...and tales of the glories of Christmases long, long ago!"

Such a wonderful time.

Cats with lightning bolt scars & final craft fair prep

2011-12-02T10:09:00.001-07:00

Tomorrow is the big day! My first craft fair. I have NO idea what to expect. It's supposed to snow tomorrow, which will most likely deter shoppers from making a trip, but I am hopeful nonetheless. I've been waking up early & going to bed late all in preparation. It's fitting that this journey is during the Advent season when we also wait in joyful anticipation, moving our lives around to make room for Jesus (both figuratively and literally).

1st Edition: Random conversations with Griffin
N: "So, ya know that cat that sleeps outside my door?"
G: "Yeah."
N: "I finally named him."
G: "What did you name him?"
N: "Harry James Potter."
G: "You're a dork."
N: "He's got disheveled black hair, bright green eyes... and a little lightning bolt scar on his forehead."
G: "Ha! Do you know how much that cat would go for on eBay if that were true?"
N: "It is true."
...walk into apartment complex & HJ Potter is sleeping outside my door. I reach down to pet him & he looks up at us.
N: "See Griff, see the lightning bolt?"
G: "No. Harry looks more like Professor McGonagall."
Fin.

[source]

And some other Harry Potter cats for your viewing pleasure:

[source]

Also, please pray for my sister. She's getting Lasik today! EEK. Happy Friday!

Advent Action

2011-12-01T09:31:00.000-07:00

It's quite snowy here. I walked to work today & the snow was blowing directly in my face. I got tears in my eyes looking at the fresh white snow. Thankful that it is here. Thankful that it is December. Thankful that we're waiting in joyful anticipation of the coming of the Lord. A beautiful moment.

Just a quick post. Getting into the Advent & Christmas spirit!

A few years ago, a dear friend gave me this book:

[source]

I've used it every year. I read it sometimes by myself, sometimes with my family, and often with Griff. I love it. It's a great way to stay centered during this busy season. You can buy the book on Amazon, found here.

There are daily readings & meditations for all the days in the Advent & Christmas season. Here are some snippets from today:

God Seeks Us
Prayer:
"God, I often feel lost in this world. There are many messages bombarding me, telling me which way to go. In my restlessness, I know that I long for something more than what this world has to offer. Thankfully, I do not have to find my way through all these conflicting messages on my own. out of your great love for me, you have sent your Son to find me amid the confusion of this world. I pray in a special way today that Jesus will take me by the hand and lead me to a life beyond anything that the world has to offer: life in you."

Advent Action:
"What barriers in your life are you erecting to prevent God from finding you this Advent season? Are you keeping too busy? Are you caught up in the materialism of this season? Are you burdened by worry and anxiety? Is there some activity in which you are involved that is keeping a distance between you and God? Tear down at least one barrier that you have put up between yourself and God."

My action:
Prayer before I go to bed is one of my favorite times to talk to God and grow in him. Sometimes I am overcome with sleepiness and drift off to the land of Nod before finishing my petitions, but overall it is a great time for prayer. Lately, however, I've turned on an episode of Frasier or How I Met Your Mother & have drifted to sleep with these comedies playing in the background, putting my prayer off entirely. This is one barrier that is keeping me from God. I will tear it down starting tonight & use that time to reflect and pray. Back to the basics.

Have a great day.

And the winner is...

2011-11-28T08:01:00.000-07:00

Hope you all had a fabulous Thanksgiving & without further ado, let's announce the winner of the giveaway.

Congratulations lucky number five, AKA the lovely Jacky from The Sweetest Petunia!

Your package will be going out shortly!

Woo hoo!

Busy this week as I prepare for my first ever craft fair on Saturday. I would love any tips or tricks if you have any!

xoxo,

Happy Thanksgiving!

2011-11-24T04:16:00.000-07:00

The big things I'm thankful for: family, friends, health, faith, & life.

Here are a few of the little things I'm thankful for:

The smell of dogs' paws

Astrikingly beautiful sunset

Thesmell of a chlorinated swimming suit

An oldcouple holding hands

Gettinga letter through snail mail

Mydad’s laugh

My momspeaking Spanish

Chelsea’slaugh

Snuggling

Coldpillows

Wrinklymummy sleeping bags

Freshlaundry, warm and straight out of the dryer

Waterpopsicles

Dancinglike no one’s watching

Divinginto a swimming pool

Skiingdown a mountain

Reallygood acoustical guitar

Thesmell of fresh cut grass

Hugsfrom Cass: “give me a hug!”

Griffin’shandwriting

Griffincalling me “Polar Bear”

Peoplepraying

Scrubs

Children’slaughter, especially when one of them tells a funny joke or story

Fine-tippedblack pens

Ink onfresh paper

Boysin hoodies

Feelingthe sun give me more freckles

Travelingin general, especially particularly foreign places you’ve only seenpictures—pictures that will never do justice to the real thing

Journals

Paint chips

AnneGracie romance novels

Acolor-coded closet

Aperfectly fitting pair of jeans, like they were made for me

Apiping cup of tea, especially with pyramidal tea bags

Icedcoffee

Bed-head

“Peacebe with you” at Mass

Red,orange and yellow leaves falling in an autumn breeze

Bicycles,old ones

Anneof Green Gables

Natalie’s laugh, when she puts her hand on her stomach and lets her whole bodylaugh along

GilbertBlythe

Wellington’s(rain boots)

Mom’sstory telling (Dad & the Ketchup)

Familymemories & videos

Springflowers, especially tulips

TheKite scene in Finding Neverland

Mom’smysteries of the Rosary

ForcingCass to give me a hug when she’s mad

Filip’slaugh

HunterGregory’s Buddha belly

Vermilionthe color

Along, challenging run

Huntersticking his head out the sun roof

Nature,just after it’s rained

Momsaying “these people!”

Hunter’showl

GroggyGriffin

Chelsea’steaching stories: “Aww Mom! I went to bed lastnight!”

GrandmaHesse & all her quirky sayings “these pants attract all but men &money!”

Officesupply stores

Littletiny notebooks

Thimbles

New shoes

Books

Fallingasleep in the sun

Dad’srobes

Icedvanilla/almond lattes

Couplesholding hands with mittens on

SisterLucy saying Thessalonians

Christmaslights

Theway Hunter is really cuddly in the morning

HowNatalie is the human equivalent of a Snuggie

Baking

Thesong G & I made up: “Clementine”

Thefeistiness of Grandma Hesse

Honeynut loaf without nuts

Have a blessed feast & holiday!

PS- The giveaway is still going on here!

What I Wore Wednesday in Estes

2011-11-23T04:22:00.000-07:00

Colorado = layers
Scarf: Anthropologie
Vest: Target
Sweater: American Eagle
Jeans: Old Navy

I love this chair. I honestly LOVE this chair.
Sweater: Ann Taylor Loft
Tank & Jeans: Old Navy
Watch: JC Penney
Hiking boots: courtesy of Mom

Just moosin' around. You saw that coming, didn't you?

Linking up with Lindsey

Love the layers! Enter the giveaway here!

My To-Make List and Great Dinner Roll Recipes for Thanksgiving

2011-11-22T05:06:00.000-07:00

Homemade Chex mix. Anyone have a good recipe? I LOVE this stuff, but I've never made it. I'm planning on using Betty Crocker's recipe found here.

[source]

I'm in charge of rolls this Thanksgiving. A lot of pressure, because as a side, these are a family favorite! I usually make two different recipes. I'm going with Bakingdom's soft rolls for one:

[source]

& Our Best Bites' cheesy garlic bread swirls for the other. Garlic + cheese + bread = perfect for any meal! Recipe found here.These are so good. So good.

[source]

My sister makes a bomb diggity green bean casserole, so she's in charge of that! Grandma is always in charge of the sweet potatoes. The turkey goes to my mom & it's always FABULOUS.

Post Thanksgiving, these are on my cooking list for the men in my life:

For the Hunt Man: cheesy dog treats

For the Griff Man: Monte Cristo sandwich

For the Frederer: Chicken Pot Pie, Ina's is to die for!

What are you in charge of this Thanksgiving?

PS- Don't forget to enter the giveaway going on this week!

GIVEAWAY!

2011-11-21T11:13:00.000-07:00

Guess what? Last week I celebrated my 100th post! So, that means a giveaway from my heart of hearts to one of you lucky readers! Thanks for stickin' with me!

Here's the loot one lucky winner will receive:

That's right, the winner will receive this Joel Dewberry infinity scarf, the elegant ruffle coffee sleeve, a winter's wonderland ring & leaf drop earrings!

Here's the dig:

MANDATORY: You must be a public follower of this blog!

To enter, simply leave me a comment & tell me one little joy you are thankful for this year! (one entry). Be sure to include your email if your comment isn't linked to it.

Extra entries:

+1 Follow @belleviewplace on Twitter

+1 Add Belleview Place to your favorites on Etsy

+1 Tweet, blog, or facebook about this giveaway and include link to this post

You can copy this or craft your own:

To celebrate the big 100th post, @belleviewplace is giving away some sweet loot. Come enter for yourself! http://bit.ly/sZ8LNk

As a special gift, use code HUNDRED for 20% off your Belleview Place purchase now through Thursday, December 1st! Guaranteed for Christmas delivery!

Giveaway open to all US residents & will close Sunday, November 27th.

Winner will be chosen via Random.org & will be contacted via email & on this blog on Monday, November 28th.

Estes Memories

2011-11-19T06:18:00.000-07:00

Spent last weekend with the family in one of our favorite Colorado cities, Estes Park. Here are some of the memories! This weekend will be spent crafting away. Tomorrow I'm going to Philadelphia! Busy!

The Stanley Hotel where Stephen King wrote The Shining

Scarf: Anthropologie
Sweater: Patagonia
Gloves: Peru
Hat: H&M

Whilst hiking, we saw this. He put us to shame!

Mr. Elkman

The proverbial hat picture (we take one or seven on every vacation).

Enjoy the weekend!

Living the Good Life

2011-11-18T06:22:00.001-07:00

Just a few pictures from my weekend in Nebraska reuniting with all my college friends!

Crystal Cappuccino, anyone? Remember this shirt?

Have you ever played this game? It's a hit at parties or in small groups! Tear up some paper & have each person write 10 famous people or friends that you all know. Fold them up and dump them all in a bowl. Have each person draw one and without looking, lick it and stick it to your forehead. You have 20 yes or no questions to guess who you are! SO fun!

Getting ready to tailgate!

Trying on the garb at Wal-Mart. I should have bought that hat. Shucks.

Twilight hour!

We went on the field after the game!

Care package, courtesy of a special family in Michigan.

My first ever planking picture. Creepy.

Have a great weekend!

PS-This is officially my 100th post! To celebrate, join me for a giveaway next week!

I am in LOVE...

2011-11-12T05:14:00.000-07:00

with Joel Dewberry. In a platonic swooning fabric fest, I am in LOVE.

At the local fabric/craft store I frequent, the cute and crafty saleslady ringing me up said, "I'm noticing a pattern... Joel Dewberry."

I don't look at designer's names when choosing fabric, I just go with what makes me smile and lights my eyes up with potential, but somehow every time that happens, the fabric calling is Joel Dewberry.

I can't stop saying it! Joel Dewberry. Joel Dewberry. It rolls off the tongue so pleasantly! Joel Dewberry (okay, I'll stop!).

Eclectic modern. Brilliant, Joel Dewberry. I love you!

My favorite collection is Heirloom. Here are my most recent investments:

Opal Jade, voile

Tile Flourish Amber, voile

To Infinity scarves & beyond! That's where these puppies are going. Can't wait for more! I love voile!

If you're brave enough to click the website, get ready to drool &/or fork up some dough buying the fabric on Etsy. Enjoy! Show me what you make with your Joel Dewberry!

Hello, friends!

2011-11-11T09:10:00.001-07:00

'Twas a week filled with joyful memories of my weekend in Omaha. Reminiscing with college friends is therapy for any aching soul! We had so much fun. I took a grand total of 12 pictures because (brilliant me) brought the camera with a dead battery & no charger. Hoops.

You'll see those pictures soon & get a proper update in time. I am headed to the mountains this weekend, out of town again. Next weekend I head to Philadelphia & then it's Thanksgiving. Busy times around here!

Not to mention, I'm crafting my bones out getting ready for a craft fair! Let me know if you have any tips or advice for this little novice!

Have you seen my mottos? I went to the grand opening of H&M in Denver yesterday with my sister & this rule was broken by far too many chickadees out there. Ladies, as if our men weren't tempted enough... please just wear some pantaloons! Thanks!

I'll leave you with a picture of the Cathedral Basilica from this morning. I tried to go to confession at 6:30am & I was booted because Father had to get ready for mass. That's life, though! Note to self: be punctual!

Unedited & with a wee cell phone camera. Yep, it looks that good with a bad camera.

Have a fruitful weekend,

All Souls Day

2011-11-02T11:01:00.000-06:00

Today we celebrate & remember all the faithful souls that have gone before us.

If you have lost anyone in your life this past year, today is a great day to remember them & pray for them.

Here's a great quote by Amos Traver that reminds us of the message of the resurrection:

God bless,

All Saints Day

2011-11-01T08:49:00.002-06:00

Hip hip hooray! What a very special and important day. It's All Saints Day!

Here's a little blurb on my favorite saint, Saint Gianna Beretta Molla:

She was a skier, a physician, and an ardent wife and mother. She was a person just like us & is now in heaven enjoying the beautiful banquet and praying for all of us.

[source]

She cultivated the Christian life and inspired others through faith her involvement with the Church. She studied medicine and eventually married her sweet Pietro and they started a family together.

During her last pregnancy, she developed a fibroma in her uterus and knowing the risk, insisted that her child be saved. Shortly after the birth of her daughter, Gianna Emanuela, St. Gianna died. She is one of the first lay married saints to be beatified & her family was even able to attend her beatification in Rome with Pope John Paul II (how fantastic)!

[source]

Here's some more information about All Saints Day & about St. Gianna:

Saint Gianna Shrine in PA

Short biography

Wife, Mother, Doctor

Questions about saints

All Saints Wiki

A beautiful post from a fellow blogger about desiring to be saints

"One cannot love without suffering or suffer without loving."

"Also in suffering, let us say: Thanks be to God."

PS- Blessed Chiara is also a favorite...
Have a wonderful day!

Saint Gianna, pray for us!

IKEA Hack: Fabric Covered Cork Board Tutorial

2011-10-27T06:35:00.000-06:00

Ever been to IKEA? Ever visited the IKEA Hackers site? Well, here's my hack. I bought three cork heat boards that I turned into fabric covered cork boards & you can too. Fully functional & pretty, not to mention super easy!

You'll need a hot glue gun, scissors, fabric, cork & a pen or fabric marker.

Trace around the cork leaving about an inch of room all the way around.

Plug the hot glue gun in and allow it to warm up. Cut fabric. Turn upside down and place the cork on the fabric. Spread a strip of glue along the edge of the cork. Pull fabric up and smoosh onto the glue with your fingers.

This is what it will start to look like. Continue all the way around.

Here's the completed cork.

Repeat with the second one.

And the third.

I used my favorite secret weapon to hang these puppies: 3M Command Strips.

This whole craft cost me little over $3! They look great as wall art as well! Have a great day!

Color Crush: Terra Cotta

2011-10-26T08:46:00.000-06:00

Inspired by Fall by nehesse featuring tote hand bags

I am currently loving this rust/terra cotta color. It is a nice, deep burst of color in the fall and winter. I got a pedicure last night & the terra cotta polish inspired this polyvore collage. Love it.

It's peacefully snowing here in the Mile High city. Yum.

Have a great Wednesday!

Tickle Me Tuesday: Amazon Edition

2011-10-25T08:36:00.000-06:00

Life is all about balance, about being well-rounded. Here are some items from my Amazon wish list that help nourish me (& tickle my fancy).

Although I've never tried it, Jessica at The Novice Chef raves about it & I would love to get my hands on some.

Super shiny hair? Yes, please.

Caroline inspired me to get one of these. Haven't taken the plunge yet, but I have a feeling I will soon!

An essential for me this winter with lots of skiing planned & my lack of a microwave, this will be perfect.

Said to help anemia, Blackstrap molasses is a natural sweetener with minerals.

A little nourishment for the mind & soul, this is one of the many books on my "to-read" list.

The Little Things

2011-10-21T05:32:00.000-06:00

Happy Friday! It seemed like this day would never come. Here's what I'm ~~reading, drinking, decorating, rocking, & cooking~~ enjoying this week.

[source]

[Picture tour to come next week?]

Linking up with the lovely Lindsay today:

Loving the little things and that it's Friday. Use code TOBER20 for 20% off everything in the shop. Today only!

Weekly Dinner Menu: Free Printable

2011-10-20T06:04:00.000-06:00

One of the things that helps me stay organized is planning my meals in advance. My roommate & I started this great trend in college a few years ago, and now that I'm in an apartment by myself, I've brought back the brilliant idea.

Our bi-weekly ritual consisted of us perusing recipe books & websites to find 10 dinner meals that sounded great & easy. These ten meals would feed us for two weeks (with a few leftover meals for lunches and or the freezer). We'd make two lists, one with the meals & one with the ingredients we'd need to make that dish. Then we'd choose whatever sounded good & made it knowing we had all the ingredients on hand. It worked out marvelously.

This is what I use on a weekly basis (as I've adapted to going grocery shopping once a week). I plan 5 meals (always with leftovers) and count on having a few leftover lunches at my disposal and use what's left in the fridge for Saturday & Sunday (not to mention these are the days I'm most likely to go out or have family dinner, etc.). Click the picture at the end of this post for your free printable if you like! It fits a standard 8.5 X 11 inch paper in the landscape orientation.

Here's mine in action:

I like to jot down the weather on mine too! Another tip I have is to make note of where you got the recipe so you don't go crazy the day-of trying to remember which site or book you got the recipe from.

Hope you find this helpful! Now get cookin'!

What I Wore Wednesday: Inspired by Brawny

2011-10-19T06:14:00.000-06:00

[source]

This outfit make me feel cozy & warm in the cool autumn temperatures. Also, I feel a bit like the Brawny man (in the I'm a lumber-Jill sort of way). Quite the resemblance! I'm also channeling my Marty Crane.

flannel: thrifted, originally from target

cami: f21

jeans: ae

belt: gap

kicks: converse from journeys

cuff: gloria deo

necklace: cotton lane

bow: handmade, tutorial found here

Be crazy & jump for joy!

Linking up with Lindsey

Tutorial: Fabric Covered Letters

2011-10-18T06:11:00.000-06:00

Here's a quick & easy (no sewing required) tutorial for a cute way to add some zest to any room.

You will need a computer, a printer, cardboard, fabric, scissors, a paint brush, decoupage & double-sided tape.

1. Find a font that you love. Download (if necessary) & open up a document. Type your letter, and re-size it so that it fits a full size of paper. I used a serif font.

2. Print out each letter and cut around the edges. Trace onto a piece of cardboard (use what you have on hand... cereal boxes work great).

3. Cut the letter out of the cardboard.

4. Place the letter face down on the fabric & trace.

5. Cut the fabric.

6. Apply decoupage to the cardboard and ease the fabric onto the cardboard so that edges match up nicely.

7. Apply a coat of decoupage to the top and let dry (about one hour should do it)

8. Use Command Strips, double-sided tape or putty to hang letters.

Done! Voila!

Linking up here today:

The Kurtz Corner

Today's Creative Blog

A Bowl Full of Lemons
Mommy by Day, Crafter by Night
Carolyn's Homework
Sugar Bee Crafts
Eisy Morgan

An Autumn Weekend

2011-10-17T09:19:00.002-06:00

Sometimes pictures enlighten us more than words. Let me tellyou about my weekend solely through pictures.

Be Kind to Yourself

2011-10-11T08:39:00.000-06:00

Well that was an unexpectedly long hiatus! Hello friends! I am back. My interview was mediocre (a very dull faculty member interviewed me), but that's okay. I have a different interview two days before Thanksgiving & this time I'm off to Philadelphia! Omaha was superb (I LOVE THIS CITY). Visited a great friend, went on adventures for coffee & old books. I am so thankful for wonderful friends like Hilary. We might not see each other for long stretches of time, but we pick up right where we left off, & that is something so precious.

The beautiful memories & aromas of my favorite coffee joint, Aroma's.

Hilary in a loved ugly chair.

Princess Tari herself on a beautiful quilt.

Hilary's picturesque notes. I thought it was so endearing that she spilled coffee on them. Love it.

Ahh, the psychology section. Smiles.

AND I've been in the process of moving. YAY. Here is the MAJOR work in progress apartment. It's a studio, so these pictures are of my room, living room, craft room & office, all wrapped up in a cute little package. More updates & pictures to come.

The office, rocking some high speed Internet courtesy of CenturyLink.

The proverbial color-coded closet. More organization to come!

And the area that needs the most love & attention: my crafting area. So much potential!

More unpacking and organizing (+ more trips to IKEA) in the forecast, along with some fun fall activities (like going on a walk in snazzy boots with hot apple cider in hand to look at the fall leaves and crunch the fallen beauties as you walk).

Love to you all!

What I W[ill Wear] Wednesday: Interview Style

2011-09-21T09:33:00.000-06:00

I have a medical school interview this Saturday. Because of the importance of the interview, putting a lot of thought into what to wear is a must. Keeping in mind the fact that it's in a toasty part of the country & there will be a lot of walking, the goal is formal (while not looking like a cookie cutter image of everyone else) and practical.

Here's the outfit I will wear:

Mauve Blouse: From the Mad Men collection at Banana Republic

Pencil Skirt: Express

Black Suede Wedges: Merona at Target

Pearl Earrings & nude hose. Badda bing, badda boom.

I'll be expressing my own style by not wearing a boxy, button down shirt, be practical by wearing a modest heel, and look formal by choosing a skirt over pants.

Wish me luck! Hopefully I'll snap a photo or two of me wearing this!

Random Updates

2011-09-13T10:11:00.000-06:00

Life is pretty busy around here. Just finished up a week of dog-sitting for a little prince (aka a golden retriever named Dixon). I've been hunting for apartments and signed a lease on Saturday for a cute little studio in downtown Denver! I move in the 1st of October. I have a medical school interview on Saturday (pray for me!). & I'm getting ready for my first ever craft fair in December (more updates to come). Whew, that's enough to keep me busy! But not too busy for a little crafting. Here's a quick little up-cycle craft project that involved some old frames and a few coats of spray paint. Love it. Moving updates soon.

Can't wait to display these in the new apartment. Lovely print from Naptime Diaries & paint mosaic project found here.

Mr. Dixon.

Playing around with some ISO.

A certain little man chewed one shoe to smithereens. The other, only a nibble. Luckily these were only $7.50

Took a jog in ~~Justin Bieber's~~ Griffin's hoodie.

Biggest Loser starts tonight! YAY.
Happy Tuesday.

Tickle Me Tuesday: Linkin' on Up

2011-09-13T09:53:00.001-06:00

I'm linking up for the first time with Sarah from Yes, Teacher. Woo hoo!

1. My new ski coat (I got matching pants too from this great website):

2. This free tutorial from Keyka Lou:

3. This tutorial using vintage sheets:

4. This shirt that looks so cuddly and goes to an amazing cause: *update* I couldn't stop thinking about this shirt... so I bought it :)

5. FALL IS COMING! One word: butterbeer.

Happy Tuesday, friends!

Join the fun here:

The Little Things Are The Big Things

2011-09-09T08:19:00.004-06:00

Linking up for the first edition of the Little Things linkup party with Lindsay from Aisle to Aloha today (& I'm so excited about it). I really like to enjoy the simple things & a catch phrase I often us is "(noun) is a joy of life!"

Here are the Little Things I enjoyed this week:

The US Open. Roddick v. Nadal! I don't know who to root for. Gotta LOVE tennis, though.

Manicure/pedicure. I feel good when my nails are shiny, clean, and colorful. And I always feel a bit more feisty for some reason...

My loving boyfriend. His birthday was yesterday & he is just so wonderful. Drove me to the ER on Tuesday and kept me calm. He is just so so so loving.

Cooking/baking & chocolate chip cookies. Especially these ones I made from this delectable recipe.

Acqua di Gioia. I LOVE this smell. It makes me feel happy when I spritz myself a few times.

Lists. They keep me going (& focused).

Keep enjoying life. Happy Friday. Come join the fun!

Happy 23rd, Griff!

2011-09-08T07:57:00.005-06:00

Today is Griff's 23rd birthday (yes, he is 30 days younger than I am). I've known this guy since I was 14 (which was when I first had a crush on him). I've really known him since he was 18 & we've been dating since he and I were 19. We've got a nice and long history, one that's full of memories and love. It's been such a wonderful progression from awkward teenagers to maturing adults! I can't even describe how wonderful this guy is. He inspires me, challenges me, and most of all loves me. I am so thankful for him.

From way back in 2007. My caption for this one was "not all who wander are lost."

You are the coolest person I know.

I love your unique way of looking at things.

You are a dapper young gentleman & I'm so blessed to have you in my life.

So, happy birthday Griffin. I love you so much.
In celebration of Griff, why not use code TWENTYTHREE for 10% off your purchase at Belleview Place! Valid through 09.10.11. Hop on over.

PS- Do you know who else's birthday is celebrated today? I'd say it's fitting.

I'm trying really hard not to rush things along...

2011-09-07T08:37:00.001-06:00

but.... I am very excited for fall & winter. See, the leaves change here in Colorado, they do, but you've got about a week window of green to yellow to gone & then it's over, quick as it came. A very ephemeral change yet so beautiful.

As a child, summer was my favorite season, but as I've grown autumn seems to move my heart just a bit more. Riding my one gear-back pedal brakes-bike to classes at Creighton, feeling the cool breeze on my face, becoming reacquainted with my backpack again, hearing the wind rustle the crunchy leaves, smelling cinnamon and pumpkin baking in the oven... oh my goodness, I love fall.

I went to Powder Daze on Monday and perused the ski coats, goggles, socks, etc., which made me so excited for winter & ski season, but again I'm trying not to rush things along (be where you are!). I did buy new ski pants & a ski coat yesterday though...

So, I will keep enjoying summer for the two weeks it remains so. Drinking iced coffee, going on evening walks, wearing shorts & tanks, eating watermelon, going to baseball games, eating frozen yogurt, and soaking up the sun (because there is just sew much sunshine!).

PS- I was going to do a "What I Wore Wednesday" post, but I went to the emergency room last night & the plan got halted. Nothing serious & yes, I'm fine. See, I'm allergic to dogs... & I love dogs & I own a dog. Occasionally my eyes get itchy from said allergy & I rub my eyes. Apparently yesterday I rubbed them too vigorously (Griff told me to stop & go wash my hands, but I kept itching and rubbing my eye...). I finally looked in the mirror and washed my eye out. It looked like my sclera or lens had detached and that the white part of my eye was swelling and overlapping the iris. I then couldn't see for a second and got really freaked out, so off to the ER we went. No wait time (thank you, Centennial) & great doctor. She dyed my eye orange and looked at it under a fluorescent light (aka black light) and it glowed neon yellow. She even gave me a mirror so I could see. I'm not blind & my eye is healing. Doin' fine! Thank goodness for that.

Happy Wednesday, everyone!

Viva Las Vegas

2011-09-06T08:57:00.000-06:00

Las Vegas was a lot of fun. We encountered a storm on the way to the airport, which delayed our flight a bit. Eventually landed in LV, walked outside into the oven that is Las Vegas & headed straight for the pool. Met up with some family, swam, and grilled some chicken. On Saturday we spent the day as tourists, won some money playing roulette, ate some IN-N-OUT & went to Caesar's Palace's club Pure (nothing pure about it... no me gusta). Saw Snooki there (yes that Snooki) & decided we'd had enough... Hung out in a cabana by the pool on Sunday & then I flew home. Nice little trip & good to be back. Here are some good shots from the weekend:

Pretty menacing storm clouds

Roasting away in the 100 degrees heat at 9pm

Ooooh yeah!

Birthday girl in the center ! WOO HOO. Please note the "double lens" look of mine...

Reese & Charlie. So adorable.

A healthy glow from the heat.

Look at that candid first bite. She really liked it, as you can tell.

I have dreams about these burgers. Please try the fries "animal style" for a whole new dimension of taste-bud satisfaction.

Teamwork = success at roulette!

Ready to dance!

A sweet sculpture next to the Cosmopolitan & Aria

Catching the rays & lounging in the pool.

I hope you all had a great Labor Day weekend too!

The Digital Shelves are Stocked!

2011-09-02T09:02:00.000-06:00

There are some new items gracing the digital shelves of Belleview Place, and I wanted you all to be the first ones to know! Some zippered clutches, a few bracelet cuffs, and some eco-friendly reusable snack bags! Hop on over & see for yourselves. Yay Labor Day weekend!

Now a special treat for you: in celebration of this extra day off & all this new merchandise use code

VEGAS for 10% OFF

(as that's where I'll be heading this weekend). Coupon code valid through 09.05.11

Have a fun & safe one!

Mid-Week Inspiration

2011-08-31T08:42:00.001-06:00

Hard to believe it's already Wednesday & the last day of August! But don't worry, September has so much potential! One of my most favorite months, for sure (& the start of a new season... fall, anyone?).

Next on my "To Craft" list (aside from some new merch for the shop) is a mail organizer. I currently have two boxes full of mail from my lovely correspondences in college & the rest is overflowing in a reusable bag (not so cute). Here's one inspiration I might use to store some of these precious keepsakes:

[source]

Met up with one of my best friends on Monday. I visited her classroom (she's a 1st grade teacher) and we went out to eat at Falafel King. She gave me this for my birthday. It's been on my favorites list on Etsy for a while now! It's so beautiful. When I opened it I almost cried it's so lovely. The Wheatfield is also on my favorite shops list.

[source]

If you need a great & simple recipe, here's one for you. I tried this last night. Griff & I loved it. It was so simple & took only about 30 minutes from scratch to bowl! I love this website! It tasted more like a Mexican macaroni; just delicious.

[source]

I finished my digital scrapbook for Peru & it's currently in the "printing" status, but as soon as it arrives I'll give you a review of winkflash's quality. I certainly saved a heck of a lot of money ($114 to be exact) using a coupon code I found online (score). I loved how simple it was to make the book. Mine turned out to be 96 pages! Here are a few pages:

Have a great Wednesday, everyone. Be where you are.

Roses are Red, Mondays are Blue, & a Custom Order, One for You?

2011-08-29T08:07:00.001-06:00

A bit of crafting this weekend. I finished up a birthday gift for my cousin, a custom iPad case (we're going to Vegas this weekend to celebrate)!

I did my first custom order for Belleview Place, a wristlet clutch. Beautiful lemon yellow contrasted with grey & vermilion: sunburst. A few of these will be hitting the digital shelves soon! & if you're interested in a custom order, let me know! Very affordable & fun.

Griff & I had a date night on Saturday. I made him dinner & dessert. He brought roses. We ate outside over candlelight & watched a movie. It was lovely! Just the normal we need!

Here's to a great week!

Up & Coming

2011-08-26T08:44:00.001-06:00

Hi hi, hello, all! I've been MIA for a variety of reasons.

Medical school applications: finally tying up a few loose ends & then they will be complete.
Studying for the GRE & looking into applying to graduate programs (this means trying to use words like erudite & prestidigitation in my everyday vocabulary).
House-sitting. I've been away from my normal routine & thus my sewing machine and crafting supplies too.
I've been diligently working on my Peru digital scrapbook using winkflash. It's currently 92 pages & it's not even done yet! SOON.

That being said, my sincerest apologies for the lack of updates. Here's some random stuff to much on.

I am adding a few new products to the shop & you get the first sneak peek! Here's one item that will be available soon.

This lovely is made with Ty Pennington fabric & an organic cotton fabric called Lemon. &hearts;

If you follow me on Twitter (@belleviewplace), you will know that I broke my first needle! I guess I've been officially sworn into the sewing club after this mishap. Snapped a quick photo, tossed the broken needle and replaced it with a fresh one & kept on sewing. No big deal! PS-isn't this fabric lovely!

And in other random news, I absolutely love this Cucumber White Tazo tea. They don't even have this tea listed on their website, but Amazon does! I bought mine from a Super Target. I haven't tried it hot yet (not sure it would be as delicious), but iced it's absolutely scrumptious. Beat the August heat with this! I might just be sipping on some this very moment.

[source]

Please keep all the East Coasters in your thoughts and prayers as they brace for hurricane Irene! Have a safe weekend, everyone.

Tuesday Tutorial: Up-cycled Wood Blocks

2011-08-16T08:07:00.004-06:00

I've had these wood blocks for a while, but I thought it was high time for an update. I thought about giving them away, but decided to update them instead. For this, all you need is a sturdy piece of wood (perhaps you too have a piece that needs to be updated...), some spray paint, painter's tape, & some acrylic paint.

For the first one I used Coral Isle. I really liked the look of the raw wood around the edges, so I used painter's tape before spray painting. After a few thin and even layers of spray paint (and letting it dry, of course), I roughed it up a bit with a nail file (or sand paper if you're classy) just so it wasn't so shiny. I then painted the word Patience with white & a grey outline.

Wrap 3M tape around the edges & fold

Spray a thin, even layer

After two thin coats

After three thin coats: perfect!

Roughed up a bit & with a thin layer of acrylic white

Beginning outlines of grey

& voila... with a little patience (ha) you're finished product will be dry in no time

For the second I used Chalkboard spray paint from Krylon (my first experience with this stuff & I am hooked). No better time to use this stuff than August when it's back to school time!

Apply a few thin, even layers allowing time to dry in between

After a few coats, let it dry for 24 hours. Then use the side of a piece of chalk and rub the entire surface of the chalk board. Erase with a felt eraser (or your fingertips) & then you're free to write/draw/create!

Linking up with these ladies: & here & here

A Restful Weekend

2011-08-15T08:10:00.003-06:00

Happy Monday, everyone! I hope you all had a great weekend. I spent most of it crafting & relaxing. Stocked up on some fabric (yay), including some of my new favorite material: voile. It's elegant & softer than soft! I also got very sidetracked watching How It's Made fabric & subsequently jeans, which basically made me drool it was so awesome.
I did a quick plastic bag holder, courtesy of Martha. Tutorial found here.

I also finally bought some more interfacing & worked on my t-shirt quilt. It's getting close to completion! All the shirts are officially sewn together. Not all the seams match, but it's homemade & my first attempt at "quilting," so I'm still proud of it. That tutorial comes from the lovely Caroline, found here.

Also, I used my Keurig for the first time this morning & woof, I didn’t know what I was missing. That was one delicious cup of coffee!

[source]

Fun & easy tutorial coming tomorrow!

Currently

2011-08-11T09:07:00.001-06:00

Thursday thrills, what I'm up to:

Reading:

Dipping into some nonfiction with The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks by Rebecca Skloot

[source]

Writing:

My journal + application essays

[source]

Drinking:

Lychee tea

Listening to:

Mumford & Sons Pandora station

"Pumped Up Kicks" by Foster the People

"You are a Tourist" by Death Cab for Cutie

"Turn Around" by Matt Maher

[source]

Desiring to:

Go golfing, oddly enough

[source]

Inspired by:

The imminent weekend

Voile fabric

[source]

What are you up to?

Randomness is good (just ask entropy! ...nerdy joke). Have a good one!

What I Wore Wednesday: Birthday Edition

2011-08-10T08:11:00.005-06:00

Took a bit of a fashion risk with this outfit. I saw this blouse on the rack & was instantly intrigued. It got me out of my comfort zone with the loose fit & fun print and I love it.

Blouse: TJ Maxx Cami: Forever 21 Skinny Jeans, Belt &amp;amp; Flats: Gap Glasses: DKNY @ Target Optical

Beautiful Larimer Square

New favorite store: Posh. They decorate with packaging tape!

23!

Awesome light from Posh!

*Don't forget 10% off now though Friday 08.12.11 in honor of my 23rd birthday! Coupon code: TWENTYTHREE. Click here to join the celebration.

Linking up with the lovely Lindsey at The Pleated Poppy