Life

To say that life has been overwhelming lately, well . . . is an understatement. Forgive me as I step out of my usual DIY project and design mode and just chat for a bit. I tend to think that I HAVE to do everything from craft time with the boys to paint every room and piece of furniture in it to running a shop to being a supportive wife to fulfilling my church calling to taking on EVERY project I see on Pinterest to writing a family blog and business blog . . . need I go on??? Well, while all that was happening, this sweet, happy, lovable little guy turned 7 months old! It made me realize that I need to take a step back and ENJOY life without worrying about the next post, the next project, the next invitation and party kit I "need" to make. 

I just got back from a fabulous trip back to my hometown where there was no computer, no etsy shop, no bunk bed in the basement waiting for me to finish stripping, no walls for me to paint . . . just my husband, three boys and family to spend every moment with. IT. WAS. HEAVEN.

Now, I know that isn't real life (after all bills have to get paid) but it REALLY made me take what my husband has been trying to tell me for years into account. And that is to slow down and smell the roses. 

 We had quite the eventful two weeks and I just want to share a few of the highlights.

My 4 year old learned how to swim (he still can't keep his size 18 months swim suit on), my 2 year old started talking and my baby learned how to crawl. Tears for sure.

One of the biggest highlight of the trip (and the year) was doing a Triathlon with my three sisters. We cried, we laughed, we sang and we stayed together throughout the whole event. It was actually fun and I look forward to doing it again next year (wink, wink)!

While I was never really good at posting regularly anyway, I am taking a step back and focusing on my family. My shop will still be open and I can't help myself when it comes to free printables but I think I will do a project without taking pictures along the way and writing up a post about it;)

August Visiting Teaching Message {free calling card}

I decided to do something a little different with this month's visiting teaching printable. I am sure I am not the only one who is noticing a theme with the message's this year . . . the importance of visiting teaching!!! I loved the whole article this month and couldn't pick out my favorite so I think it's time to have a "calling card" to give our sisters. 

I love how it states, "If I have problems, I know my visiting teachers will help without waiting to be asked." I know giving out your number means they have to call and ask, but it's a wonderful feeling to know that there is someone there for you when you need it. . . especially when you don't live by family! 

We have been talking about the importance of visiting those we have been called to serve because, like the message says, the Bishop can't possibly visit everyone and know their needs. That is our job and "we can have 'great reason . . . to rejoice' because of 'the blessing which hath been bestowed upon us, that we have been made instruments in his hands of God to bring about this great work' (Alma 26:1, 3)"

Click on the image above, save to your computer, print and fill in your name on the top line with your number on the second. Fill in your partner's name and number on the next two lines. You can also include your e-mail! I hope this helps our sisters know that if they need anything, they can call ANYTIME!

Enjoy!

back to school candy bar wrappers {free printable}

I might be a little late for some of you BUT better late than never . . . right?? I can't believe how fast back to school creeped up on me. My oldest is only going to be in Pre-K but I still get excited for my 25+ nieces and nephews who are about to start school. . . so this is for them (and my wonderful supporters).

WHAT TO DO:

CLICK on the candy bar wrappers below

PRINT them out

CUT them out

Use double sided tape or glue to WRAP them around your 1.55oz. candy bar

GIVE to your kids so they will have a little reminder on how AMAZING they are!!

FOLLOW me on facebook so you don't miss out on more free printables . . . well, you don't have to do this step but it would be for your own good:)

Enjoy!

linking up to these parties:

craftomaniac, not just a housewife,  tip junkie, sugar bee, somewhat simple, tater tots and jello, at the picket fence, i heart naptime,

Shaped Expressions . . . fancy, funky and fun frames

I have been VERY fortunate to "meet" Desirae from Shaped Expressions. She is the owner of a shop full of fancy, ADORABLE frames that come in many shapes and sizes. I can't tell you how wonderful it has been getting to know her and receiving a sweet package full of frames from her! My only problem, is trying to figure out which room(s) to put them in, I want some in every room:)

One of my favorite items are theses pin cushions!! How adorable are these? If I had a craft room, I would definitely have these hanging on my wall. Someday . . .

For now I have some in the nursery, office and some waiting for us to finish our bathroom. I am so excited to have Desirae as our newest sponsor, please visit her shop, SHAPED EXPRESSIONS and order your own frames for a great price! And if you are indecisive like me, you can order them plain and paint them yourself. They will come ready to paint, no sanding necessary!

 

DIY Neon Striped Shirt

This white tee of mine has had many makeovers and this is by far my favorite, which is good because that paint is here to stay. I unpicked the red ruffles that were once on there (and looked terrible BTW) and started on the world's easiest project. 

This is by no means a new idea but here is a quick run down anyway.

Grab a shirt that has been sitting in your closet unused for awhile, some neon (or other color) fabric paint, painters tape and a sponge or paint brush. 

 Put your tape on the shirt in any pattern you want, I love the horizontal stripes and thought it would make a fun chevron pattern when I did the stripes on the back. Dip the sponge in your paint and start sponging it on your tee. Let it dry a bit and take the tape off (my favorite part, I love seeing the outcome!). Let it dry and flip your shirt over to do the same thing to the other side, making sure to line up the tape with the unpainted diagonal stripe.

And now you have a fun, bright and cheerful new shirt. My boys helped me paint the stripes on, so every time I wear the shirt they like to come up and touch the paint. I think they are pretty proud of themselves for making something;)

 My little model buddy who is wondering what his crazy mom is doing taking pictures of herself in the mirror. I love that face!!

No go grab some old shirts . . . I am sure your kid's have some too and upcycle them to something fun and new!

linking up to these parties:

craftomaniac, not just a housewife,  tip junkie, sugar bee, somewhat simple, tater tots and jello, at the picket fence, i heart naptime