Constantly Evolving

Guten tag!

noreply@blogger.com (Caroline) — Fri, 01 Jun 2012 00:13:00 +0000

Hello Hello!!!!

Sorry for the very long absence here... I just got back from a vacation in Germany. OMG...amazing. I spent 5 days in Berlin and a night in Frankfurt. I have so many pictures, I don't even know where to begin...

These photos here are all taken with my phone...I have not even begun looking at the ones I took on my real camera! Ay yi yi!

Anyway, I just got back last night and had an all day shoot today...I am exhausted to the bone.

I can't wait to catch up with you (after I get some sleep!) Hope you are well...I have missed you all!

xoxo

when is too much too much?

noreply@blogger.com (Caroline) — Mon, 21 May 2012 16:28:00 +0000

In this fast paced, super charged world...when is too much...too much? I am sure that you struggle to find balance too. I mean between blogging, facebooking, pinteresting, instagramming, emailing, texting, and all the other things we do to stay connected...everything just gets blurry after awhile.

I am going on my 2nd day of a migraine too...thankfully, I can feel it subside. These things drain me. Luckily, the migraines are not overly painful (and I am not sensitive to light, so I don't have to lock myself up in a dark room)...but they are dull and heavy and suck the life out of me (that I hate, since I am forced to slow way down). Perhaps that is the only good thing about migraines...slowing down.

The past few days have been nuts...I am not used to having so many people in my life at one time. And yesterday I had the lovely experience of driving a car full of people around with a screaming 2 yr old in the back seat (and when I say screaming...I mean screaming bloody murder!). My head was pounding too...all I could do was breath and tell myself over and over to "be calm." Holy moly that was hard...but I lived. I suppose it was a good lesson...everything passes and after about 20 minutes of screaming, she tired out and stopped.

So today I am pooped and I need to find balance. It's the curse of the modern world...everything is at our finger tips...but at what expense? What must we give up to stay so plugged in? Usually it's time...and/or sleep!

After I write this post I am going to take a walk...without my phone! *smiles* Hopefully the world won't come to an end! LOL

***

So my words of wisdom consist of some questions to ask yourself: "Are you doing too much?". If so, what can you let go of? "Are you in balance?" If not, how might you equal the scale? "Are you in a hurry?" If so, can you stop and slow down?

xoxo

A long weekend

noreply@blogger.com (Caroline) — Mon, 21 May 2012 01:10:00 +0000

The past three days...

All captured on my phone.

***

I enjoyed not lugging my big camera around this weekend...sometimes it's just too much. I love that I can take cool retro shots on my phone and not have to worry about post processing. Just snap the pic and i'm done. Easy peasy...and I like easy peasy...a lot!

Anyway, sorry I have not been around blogisphere lately, but I have a total of 21 people staying at my house at the moment...yes, 21. And it's kept me out of the loop. I will say...it has not kept me off instagram though...LOL. I love that app. I feel like I have reconnected with some old friends...and it's wonderful to get those photo glimpses of life during the day. Not to mention, it's so easy being on my phone. I have had lot's of 10 to 15 minute spaces in my day to pop on and post a pic. It's kind of nice.

So that's that at the moment...hopefully my schedule will return to normal soon.

FYI...if you are on instagram...find me! Nowordz

xoxo

Happy Friday!

noreply@blogger.com (Caroline) — Fri, 18 May 2012 14:35:00 +0000

What is it with cats in windows...

Kind of sums up life...

Instagram has taken up a lot of my time...

***

I apologize for the absence...had a death in the family (A grandmother on my Mother in-laws side...but all is OK...she was 89..lived a good long life). But I have had lots of family in town and its been a bit crazy in my house to say the least.

I hope you have a beautiful weekend...any fun plans?

***

Word of wisdom:

Moderation

I need to take my own advice. *smiles*

xoxo

24 hours on Instagram

noreply@blogger.com (Caroline) — Wed, 16 May 2012 01:06:00 +0000

***

Holy moly what did I just get myself into?

Instagram = black hole time suck

my user name is NOWORDZ

follow me! *smiles*

***

If I were even going to tell you my day today...you would be here for 3 hours and eventually dragging me off to the nearest bar for shots. Holy hell...it sucked.

OK...I will sum it up for you:

Missed alarm and wake up at 8:08

Leave with kids freaking out by 8:16

Rush to get kids to school 30 minutes late

no coffee

Get pulled over by super cop in a shitty mood

Illinois DMV

California DMV

California AAA

pulling out hair

Fill out 4 different forms on-line

Forms didn't save info

Print forms and re-do in pen

scream

Get on my bike

Go to post office

Lady in front of me with 20+ pkgs

swearing in my head

2 people working as slow as humanly possible

oh shit...didn't have breakfast either

Take some instagram shots to kill the time

Bang and cut finger real bad

trying to remain calm

Run annoying errands

Finally consume food at 2pm

Quick 5 minute nap in the pick up line

Run more errands

Get home and collapse face down on bed

Dinner

Clean up

Writing this post

Well, that was fun.

***

Words of wisdom: some days just suck ass...all you can do is breathe and get through it. And hope for a better day tomorrow. Be calm. And instagram...lol

What do I reflect?

noreply@blogger.com (Caroline) — Mon, 14 May 2012 18:59:00 +0000

I have to be honest here. Yesterday was a hard day for me. The pressure of being a good Mom can be overwhelming (the pressure is mostly my fault). If you are a Mom, you know...it's flipping hard work. And I will tell you, I have never known fear like I do now. And I have never questioned my actions and words as much as I do now. I have a self imposed "Mom filter." Being careful not to say things that might cause my kids to feel bad about themselves, or trying hard to make their world seem brighter and prettier than what the real world dishes out.

I am careful...but I am not perfect.

And as much as I try to shield my kids from hurt...I have said things that I regret. I swear too much driving. I get angry and say things that are not always nice. I am no June Cleaver. As a Mom, I am pushed to edge almost everyday (oh the attitude!!!). I have to remind myself that they are kids and it's their job to push boundaries and buttons (especially as they near the teen years). Some days I just sit and I struggle with myself. Because being a Mom and being responsible for my kids well being is harder and more pressure than any job in the world. It is. I do believe it's my job to do my best...to show them love and good choices. And it's my job to own up to my mistakes (which I make a lot of). And it's my job to apologize when I have gone too far... And it's my job to explain that sometimes Mom's can have hard days too.

And I wonder...am I a reflection of love? I hope so... I try really hard. And trying is all I can do.

I am a loving and caring Mom...but not a perfect one.

As I look into her glasses, I will remind myself to be a reflection of love...that is after I finish swearing at that idiot that just cut me off and made me miss the green light! LOL

***
Words of wisdom...to all the Mom's out there. Give yourself a break from time to time...and just for kicks and out of the blue...hug your kids. Oh gosh remember that annoying bumper sticker from the 70's? Have you hugged your kids today? OK...maybe just hug yourself instead!

Happy Mother's Day!

noreply@blogger.com (Caroline) — Sun, 13 May 2012 17:17:00 +0000

To all you lovely Mom's out there...have a beautiful day!

xoxo

P.S. It took me about 3 hours to try and do this...then went on youtube and watched a video that was 2 minutes long and got it. Go figure...now I am getting off my butt and doing something fun with my kiddos!

I got the blues...

noreply@blogger.com (Caroline) — Fri, 11 May 2012 17:25:00 +0000

***

"Maybe it did not take a crisis to get to know yourself. Maybe you needed to get whacked hard by life before you understood what you wanted out of it." ~ unknown

I read that quote yesterday and it totally resonated with me. Sometimes we go through very rough periods and wonder "why me?" or "why is this happening?" I believe that after the fact...it all makes sense (too bad you have to go through the shit to get to the roses!). It's those difficult times that make you stop and evaluate everything. I know I have "cleaned house" during those periods. Letting everything and everyone go that didn't feel right. And it was good.

The past few years were tough...crazy...sometimes I wanted to jump off the planet. And now I look back a go..."wow" look how much I have grown. And today, I feel more like myself than I ever did before. Maybe it's something you go through in your 40's...perhaps a midlife crisis. Yeah, I think I had one of those! But I know I am on the other side of that. And I have changed. I like the color blue now too! Not dark blue...but those soft, cool pale blues. I find that funny, I used to brush off blue like it was an annoying pest...and now I totally gravitate towards it. Hmmmm...

So it's all a constant evolution isn't it. That's why I named my blog Constantly Evolving. I am always changing, growing...evolving. I think back to my 20's and what I thought was important then...wow...not so much today. And I am sure when I turn 50...i'll think, the 40's are for chumps! LOL...I have a few years to go before that...

Anyway...I am rambling...sorry about that. See what a good quote can do!

As I sit here, the sun is shining, the birds are singing and my laundry is drying. I had a grilled cheese sandwich and an arugula salad with pears for lunch. I am full and happy. And that could not be more perfect...

Happy Friday my dears!

xoxo

P.S. those "jelly" shoes are to die for! Not the jellies of the 80's...oh no...these are divine! You can find them HERE.

Now that's a hot date!

noreply@blogger.com (Caroline) — Thu, 10 May 2012 23:25:00 +0000

OK...I swear I am obsessed with bacon lately...maybe it stemmed from the food show on Monday when I ate the bacon wrapped donut. Whatever the case, I can't seem to get enough!

On top of loving dates and bacon...I am trying a new technique in my food photography. I am in love with a few foodie blogs, especially What Katie Ate. *drools* Her photos are incredibly gorgeous and they have this depth and old worldly charm to them. You know, that sort of rich farm style thing that seems to be all the rage now. I will tell you, its very hard for me to shoot this way...I love light and shooting in a high key manner. But heck, it's always good to try something new and different. And what better subject to experiment with...dates and bacon. Mmmmmmm. Now that's hot!

So I made these bacon wrapped dates this morning and had them for breakfast! OMG! So good. Now the key to this (in my opinion)...is GREAT bacon!

I bought the black forest bacon in bulk from Whole Foods...holy moly...it is mouth watering!

OK I have to mention how EASY these are to make too! Holy cow, if I can make them...you can!

You will need:

dates
cheese (I used Dubliner)
bacon

Hello...that's only 3 ingredients! Oh yes, you will need tooth picks to hold the bacon in place. Pre-heat your oven to 450. Stick these babies on a foiled cookie sheet. Cook about 7 minutes and flip them...cook until they are nice and brown with crispy edges.

Let's take another look at these beauties...

***

Words of wisdom: Do something different or unusual from your "norm". It may take you out of your comfort zone...and that's OK. Sometimes it's necessary to take on a new and different perspective. Explore new angles and keep an open mind!

chill...

noreply@blogger.com (Caroline) — Wed, 09 May 2012 15:38:00 +0000

This is post 800 for me today.

Wow...that's a lot of BS I have been putting out onto the internet! *smiles*

I am pooped today.

Yesterday I spent a good 5 hours walking the National Restaurant Association show that was in town. Walking for 5 hours in a big convention hall is exhausting...thank goodness it was a food show and there was plenty of things to sustain me. Yep...that was fun. Can I tell you the best thing I ate there? Will you believe it if I tell you? No you have to see it...

Yes...this is a bacon wrapped donut. Oh Yeah!!! That was flipping tasty too!

mmmm...tea, cookies, a muffin and hot sauce! It's a party!

I took this photo about 30mins into the show...this bag was pretty full by the end...it's like trick or treating for grown-ups! Did I happen to mention that the food show is fun (especially if you don't have to work a booth!).

I took this photo about a month ago..and I stumbled across it on my phone...I like it. So really no purpose to post it except for that fact.

***

I am feeling kinda *blah* today. I have a huge pile of laundry to do (which I don't want to do). I can't seem to find the energy I need to get stuff done. I still have not made my bed yet (oh! the horror). I guess it's just that kind of day. So I will just roll with it and not beat myself up. I can't be all go go go all the time...nope. Some days are meant to be lazy. And I feel Lazy...yes with a capitol L. Perhaps some coffee will help me out...

***

So my words of wisdom today...take it easy. Sometimes you need to step back and be all chill and stuff. Let the world go by. Don't worry...you can always step back on the treadmill. But every now and then...step off and take a break.

xoxo

Ta Da!!!

noreply@blogger.com (Caroline) — Tue, 08 May 2012 06:09:00 +0000

Oh hello darling?

How are you?

Um...err...did you notice anything different about me today? (that would be my blog speaking!).

***

Yes, I got a much needed blog makeover. I have been thinking about this for a long time...but it was Christina's new blog that pushed me over the edge. So I got in touch with Tammy and we went to work! (ok first, I tired to do it myself...LOL...that was not a good idea!). Seriously kids, do not try this at home (unless of course you know CSS coding and all that HTML stuff). I tried to do it on my own...oh..that was a ~~nightmare~~ mess. But Tammy saved the day and now I am sitting here with a big ol' smile on my face.

I love my new space. I hope you do too!

I especially love that I can reply to comments and you don't have to scroll down each post...you get a glimpse...and maybe that is all you have time for...or maybe you will read more.

All I have to say is...yep...this blog is constantly evolving...

Now go see Tammy and get hooked up!

***

Words of wisdom...when you get in over your head and panic...ask for help! Sometimes you can't do it all!

xoxo

pardon the mess...

noreply@blogger.com (Caroline) — Mon, 07 May 2012 19:55:00 +0000

I am working on a new format here...it might look funky for a bit...ugh...

*sigh*

*pulling hair out*

*more sighing and swearing*

coffee shop behavior

noreply@blogger.com (Caroline) — Sun, 06 May 2012 22:35:00 +0000

What is it about coffee shops? Especially on a Sunday afternoon? Can you feel it here? No one is in a hurry. This is no Starbucks on a weekday morning. Oh hell no! This is a Sunday afternoon...time to hold on to the weekend just a bit longer. Time to get lost in day dreams. Time to sit quietly with yourself or friends.

And stare out the window...

I love those lazy coffee shop afternoons, when time seems to stand still. When you sink into your chair and just let the moment happen. How come it seems that in certain coffee shops, everything is calm and good? No worries, no hurries...

***

It's been raining almost everyday here for the past week. Peeks of sun here and there...I took this photo today...the rain falling so hard and thick. The world is distorted and warped.

***

So how are you today? Did you have a good weekend? I did. I even got a new bike...I am so excited to pick her up tomorrow! I have not rode a bike since I moved back to Chicago...and this city is a biking city! So much easier to get around on a bike now...I am excited to save some gas money while peddling my booty off! *smiles*

***

(source)

I believe this...be good, do good and good will come to you. It's all about Karma baby!!!

xoxo

the sacred bath...

noreply@blogger.com (Caroline) — Thu, 03 May 2012 18:32:00 +0000

So this morning I went to visit my Mom. It was bath day. She kept brushing me off the past few weeks...telling me this came up or she forgot about that appointment. There was always an excuse. But I put my foot down and said this is the day...so get your ass ready! Of course I arrived with treats. Fresh chocolate croissants, a cherry scone and this decadent brioche dusted with sugar and filled with pastry cream. Hell, I was going to make bath time with Mom worth something! So...after we finished up breakfast I could tell she was getting nervous. I just said "OK Mom, let's go and get this shit done with." We laughed. I know she was sacred to have me see her naked...heck, I was scared!!! I have not seen my Mom naked since I was a little girl. I am 42 my Mom is 77. Bodies have changed. As she disrobed I knew she was embarrassed and I was humbled. Before me stood a very small old woman with a swayed back and incredibly small feet! I just stared at her feet. What happened? Is it the compression hose she wears that suck in her legs so her veins don't expand...did those hose shrink her feet? And her body...so much smaller than I remembered. She wears such baggy clothes it makes her look 20 pounds heavier! I will say, I did not feel judgmental or bad. It's a body...her body. Our bodies carry us through this life. Maybe her body is far from perfect, but it's beautiful in its own right. That body had endured a lot through its 77 years!

After the initial embarrassment wore off, it was time to get to business. She has a chair she can sit on in the tub (made for older people that can't stand). We got the water going and thankfully she has a hand held shower head...that made everything easy. As I began washing my Mom's back she just sighed...and I felt her relax. I let the warm water run down her skin. What is it about warm water that is so soothing and healing? I looked at all the scars on her back from surgeries she has had over the years. She told me that it felt so good to feel the warm water on her body. I scrubbed her gently and with care. I handed her the bath sponge and told her to do her front side...thank god she is still able to do that. Then I washed her hair...being sure to take my time massaging her scalp. It struck me how our roles have reversed. How I am now the one to bathe and care for her... Prior to bath time, my Mom told me that her skin is so dry and itchy and she wanted some lotion. So I made a nice sugar scrub (just olive oil and white sugar...nothing fancy). I got my sugar scrub and began to gently exfoliate her legs, removing the dry dead skin. She told me over and over what a gift this was. She said she felt like she was getting a spa treatment. Her legs are so veiny now, they look almost purple. At her age, vanity no longer exists. Just breathing will do. All she wants is to wake up and see another day. Shit.

When all was said and done...it was not nearly as hard as either of us thought. The whole experience didn't really "hit me" until I got back home. I sat on my bed and cried. Thinking how sacred of an experience that was. How lucky I am to have my Mom in my life still. How lucky I am to be in good health and able to do simple things like shower on my own. How lucky I am to be here with my Mom...to help her. Shit, she took care of me for so long...it really is the least I can do.

I wonder now...what will become of me when I am 77. Will I be able to shower on my own still, or will my daughters have to help?

I am looking at things very differently today. And that is a good thing. This was an experience that will sit with me for a while...

***

Words of wisdom...take care of yourself. Nourish your body with good things and exercise! It will pay off as you get older.

xoxo

Spring favorites

noreply@blogger.com (Caroline) — Wed, 02 May 2012 17:14:00 +0000

Target watch $12.99

Mossimo sandals...Target $19.99 (omg...and they are comfy too!!!)

weed garden...not for sale...LOL

essie polish "a crewed interest"...Target $8.50

Polka dot scarf...Target $14.99

How pretty is that nail polish? I am crushing on it.

I made this photo template!!! I want to share it with all my photoshop buddies!!!

You can download the PSD file HERE

If you use the template please shoot me a link...would love to see what you create (and feel free to customize it if you want...you can change up the patterned background or what ever!). I think I will be making more of these! So much fun! I now have a link on my sidebar too...I have another pretty little collage in there. :) Enjoy!

***

Errr...Target is dangerous. But I love that everything is affordable. And now I have a few fun new Spring accessories that I really needed. Ok, maybe I didn't totally need them...*sigh*

***

So I was walking down the street on Sunday when I saw that young homeless guy...I wanted to divert my eyes, but I didn't. Then he lifted up a sign that read: "I bet you $1.00 you can read this sign." I literally burst out laughing! And yes, I gave him a dollar. Heck, I thought that was so flipping creative! Kate asked her readers how they delt with homeless people. I thought that was such a great question. I actually have a box of granola bars that I keep in my car and hand them out. I have never been turned down. I am very fortunate to have food and shelter and can afford these little splurges at Target now and then. Yes, I am grateful for that!

***

Lately I have been asked about my photography services, and how I got started. Well, I am not sure I took the direct route...but I kept doing something everyday that felt like progress. If that meant taking a photo and blogging about it...well that was a step in the right direction! I will say this..talk to people! Tell everyone what you do. Drop business cards off in local businesses. And don't give up on your dream...ever! Don't set these huge goals either...I donno...it makes it seem harder and then you set yourself up for disappointment. So keep it baby steps...it's ok...you'll get there!

Ha! I guess that qualifies as my words of wisdom for today!

xoxo

lilies of love and other stuff...

noreply@blogger.com (Caroline) — Tue, 01 May 2012 15:39:00 +0000

Hellooooooo my friends! How are you?

Well yesterday was a beautiful day...one that was filled with surprises. So get this... I went out to shoot some flowers in my neighborhood (since it was drizzling and overcast...perfect shooting weather as long as you keep your camera dry!). I stumbled across this beautiful little garden filled with lily's of the valley (my favorite spring flower). I was outside the fence trying my best to get some good shots when the door opens and a little old woman steps out on to her porch and watches me. I thought for sure she was going to tell me to take a hike. But instead, she opened her gate and let me in to get better shots. And then to my surprise, she bent down, dug into the ground with her bare hands and unearthed a beautiful plant for me. She told me to take this home and plant it in my garden. Well, I about fell over backwards! How unexpected and kind! I told her that I would print out some photos for her (I am going to make her a set of note cards). My goodness...there are still kind people left in the world! LOL

***

Last week was action packed and it's nice to have a bit of quite time today. Organizing drawers, getting affairs in order...I love a day to do that! Don't you feel better when your stuff is in order? I read a great quote (that I found on Pinterest of course!)..."a tidy home = a tidy mind." I believe that too. I hate having random crap lying out and about...it makes me twitchy!

***

Do you need a good laugh? I love this video...now I don't have to read the book! Thank you Ellen!!!

***

So my words of wisdom....do one kind thing today. Doesn't have to be big. But it really makes a difference. The world can be a hard place and one kind gesture can change a life...really it can!

xoxo

eat your cake...

noreply@blogger.com (Caroline) — Sat, 28 Apr 2012 16:33:00 +0000

What is it about cake? Especially a pretty white cake? It must be eaten now and then. Blasted Whole Foods sells single slices! And they taunt me. So yesterday I said yes to the cake. And then I took this pretty little piece of cake into my car...and ate it (well I only ate about 1/3...cuz I knew I was going to take photos of it this morning). So I sat in my car while waiting for my daughter to finish ballet...eating the cake, drinking green tea, reading the latest Real Simple while listening to my Amos Lee station on Pandora. *sigh* It was a blissful 30 minutes! All in my car...lol. Oh well, a busy Mom's gotta do what she can with what she has, yes???

I am in love with color at the moment. I decided to splurge and get my nails done. After seeing this idea on Pinterest, I had to try it. So each hand has one glitter nail. Oh it's just silly fun to do!

Power to the polish!

***

So what is up for the weekend? Any fun plans? I am processing some fun photos I took yesterday of this lovely little craft studio...can't wait to share them with you!!!

***

My nugget of wisdom...treat yourself today! Let it be a piece of cake or a little something delicious. Get a manicure for the fun of it. Take a hot bath. Just do something decadent for YOU!!!

xoxo

I am...

noreply@blogger.com (Caroline) — Thu, 26 Apr 2012 04:15:00 +0000

I want to remember this day. This day where I could not imagine all of these things happening in my life. My dreams were not big enough... It seems as if all the pain from my past was erased today. And for that I am grateful.

I am grateful that I did not give up on myself.

I am grateful for trudging through when the dark was so dark that I never thought I would see the light again. Ever.

I am so grateful for friends and bloggers that told me to keep going and that everything would work out.

I am grateful that I believe...that I trust...that I have faith.

I am so grateful for all the times the universe did not give me what I thought I wanted (although I was pissed off and angry and saying horrible words and throwing things). But the universe knew something I didn't...and I am forever grateful for that!

I am grateful for the past heartaches and hurts...for they made me smarter and stronger.

I am grateful for the confusion I felt...and grateful for kicking fear in it's ass when I was scared shitless!

I am grateful for learning to be calm and patient.

I am grateful for knowing when to walk away and let go.

I am especially grateful for my life and for all those beautiful souls that have made me the woman I am today.

I might not feel this grateful tomorrow...but I hope so...it's a beautiful feeling.

***
A simple nugget of wisdom...ask yourself "what am I grateful for today."

xoxo

a dose of goodness and secrets revealed...

noreply@blogger.com (Caroline) — Tue, 24 Apr 2012 15:09:00 +0000

I love this photo...it's a carnation. Poor carnations...they get no respect! They are the filler flower in a bouquet. They rarely play the leading role. *sigh* But when I saw this one...the old fashioned colors...the way it looked like a petticoat... Well, I knew it needed it's time in the spotlight.

Sometimes we need to remember to step into the spotlight. It's OK to do that.

I am feeling like I need to nourish my body better. I have not been eating terribly, but I could be eating better. And more mindfully. I was eating dinner last night..wolfing down my food. Yes, I was hungry. Then I just stopped and slowed down. Taking the time to chew and taste. Funny how we can be in such a hurry for no reason...gulping down a meal and barely remembering it an hour later. Have you done that before? It's kind of scary.

***

Doh!

Ohhh did you hear the big secret? If you are a Simson's fan did you ever wonder where Springfield was? Come on, you did!! I was always hoping it was in Illinois...but no...

drum roll please...

"In an interview with Smithsonian Magazine's May issue, Matt Groening revealed that the animated town is based on Springfield, Oregon, near his childhood hometown of Portland."

***

I think I want to change things around here a bit. Not sure how yet...but I want my blog to be more "something". Not just aimless bullshit. Hmmmm...gonna be thinking about that over the next week or so.

***

So my nugget of wisdom is...be more mindful. Be present. Listen. Chew your food thoughtfully. See if being more mindful makes a difference today.

Today...

noreply@blogger.com (Caroline) — Mon, 23 Apr 2012 15:40:00 +0000

What will you do with this day?

Each day brings us something new and wonderful. Even those hard days hold something special. It might not feel tangible...but there is something sacred in each day. I mean you are alive!!

And speaking of today...well, it's kind of a BIG day for me! Today my photos are featured on west elm's design blog, FRONT & MAIN. Holy moly...

Now I am not here to be all braggy...but I have worked really really hard to get where I am. I taught myself everything I know about photography. Well, The Pioneer Woman helped me too (love her tutorials). But for the most part, I learned photography the old fashioned way...by practicing and practicing and reading and swearing and shooting almost every single day. I do believe that if you want something bad enough...you WILL get it! But you have to be willing to work hard. And you have to be strong enough to get back up when you are criticized or turned down. Trust me, I have been turned down for many photo jobs that I wanted. I have been told that my work is amateur. You know...that's Ok. Of course, it didn't make me feel good...but it pissed me off just enough to get better and keep going (and to keep learning and brushing off the negatives and focusing on the positives). "I am not saying it's going to be easy...I am saying it's going to be worth it." LOL...how many of you have that saying in a motivational Pinterest board?

You have to be a fighter some days.

Yep!

So don't give up your fight...

This might just help! Thank you Sherry!!!

***
Soooo, my words of wisdom today: "What does this day hold for you?" Each minute presents a new opportunity... Are you willing to accept it? If there is something that you want are you willing to go for it? Are you willing to take that chance? If there is something standing in your way are you willing to fight to get through it or over it? Are you willing to let go of fear today...

***
And speaking of today...I have got to get my butt organized!!! Arghhhhh!

I don't think I say it enough...but thank you! I love when you stop by.

Wishing you a bright and beautiful day filled with happiness!

xoxo

lighten up

noreply@blogger.com (Caroline) — Fri, 20 Apr 2012 15:55:00 +0000

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My daughter made that sock monkey last night for her cousin. OMG! How flipping cute is that? I think she should sell them. This one took about an hour for her to make (her first took about 4!!!). On her spring break I took her to get sewing machine lessons...wowza! If you live in Chicago you have to check out Sew Crafty Studio (there website is not up yet, so you have to go their FB page)! Jodie is amazing! She even does Mom's night out parties...how fun is that? My daughter learned a ton and is becoming a whiz at this sewing stuff. Love that...I think I need some new fun pillows!!!

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Now, if you know me at all then you know I have a slight obsession with coffee cups. Oh I do! I love cups. There is something so wonderful about drinking coffee out of a pretty cup. It really does make coffee taste better. I swear, it does. And this pretty little cup is like sunshine to me. Makes me happy!

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Yup...everything is going to be OK.

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Next week is going to be crazy I have 3 full days of photoshoots. Ay! I am not complaining but it will keep me out of the loop. So if I go MIA...just know I have not ended up in a gutter face down somewhere. God, I hope that does not happen...that would like totally suck big time!

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OK so I am having a blast pinning again! Is that just silly or what? Love this...*snicker*

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My nugget of wisdom is this...make mistakes...it's OK. Don't freak out or beat yourself up! Learn from it...get strong from it. Let it go and move on. It's going to be OK! :) I promise...

Have a beautiful weekend!!!

xoxo

noreply@blogger.com (Caroline) — Thu, 19 Apr 2012 14:03:00 +0000

I'm baaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaack...

follow my boards

Ok...is it totally weird that I missed Pinterest? Yeah...probably. But I liked it. And I was kinda freaked out with all the legal mumbo jumbo going around, so I deleted my account (and waited to see if anything was going to happen, and it didn't so I rejoined). Plus, it seems like more and more and more people are joining and throwing the legalize out the shitter...soooo...here I am. Again. You know I do this shit all the time! God, how many flickr accounts did I delete? LOL. I will say that I am especially psyched that Pinterest did not delete my boards. Whoot!

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Now what is the deal with people lately? Today some ass hat started yelling at me out his car window because my blinker was not on. Well, I am sorry but the light just burnt out and I need to get it fixed. WTF! Really? I donno...some people just need to be mean to others. I hate that. It just made me think... We are so quick to judge and point fingers sometimes. That guy did not know me...yet he felt the right to scold me. I was pissed (still am I guess, since I am writing about it!). I hate being scolded like a child...especially when I am 42 years old! Ah well...time to let that go.

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To my vegetarian friends...I'm sorry...but I love me a cocktail wiener *snicker* wrapped in pastry dough. Damn these are friggen tasty!!! nom nom nom

Peace out my friends!!!

Damn this is a lame ass post today! But I am running on 4 hours of sleep and my brain is fried!

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My nugget of wisdom is this...before you judge or point fingers...please think before acting or speaking. Ask yourself, is it necessary? Will this do me any good? Am I acting out of anger?

xoxo

a good read

noreply@blogger.com (Caroline) — Tue, 17 Apr 2012 00:12:00 +0000

All photos are from Sibella Court's book, Nomad

I will admit...I have not sat with a real book in a long long long time. Honestly, I can't remember the last book I picked up. Until Yesterday. I don't read digital books either. I just have not had time to read. It's kinda sad, I know. But while in West Elm the other day, I spied this gorgeous coffee table book, Nomad, by Sibella Court (OMG...her wesite! *swoon*). As soon as I opened it, I knew I had to have it. It's one of those books where you sit on your couch, with your feet tucked under you, snuggled in a soft blanket, with coffee (or tea)...and you are taken someplace else. I love books like this. There is such richness in the photography...and little bits of wisdom and storytelling. Many cultures visited. Many lessons learned. But short quips...somethings you tuck away in your minds eye. Beautiful.

And dang...I wish I took those photos! *sigh*

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OK...I think I am going to go back on Pinterest...I just requested an invite. How silly am I???

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My words of wisdom today...sloooooooow doooooown. If you are not in a hurry, stop acting like you are in a hurry.

xoxo

A space to breath in...

noreply@blogger.com (Caroline) — Sun, 15 Apr 2012 16:31:00 +0000

Holy crap! I finally re-decorated! This is my new living room! Thanks to West Elm and some great accessories from Target! Let me tell you...I decorated this room for less than 1/2 of what I bought our old couches for 12 years ago!! Yes I did! I will say, I have a knack for finding good quality stuff on a budget. And keeping within that budget! It's kind of a game to me...and it's fun to see see how far I can stretch my dollar.

Seriously, it's been about 12 years since we got new couches. 12 effing long years. Do you know how icky my couches were? Let's just say...they were the dogs beds...and if you did dare to actually sit on them...you needed to shower after and de-lint! They were gross and dark red...and scary. Actually, I don't recall the last time I sat on them. I kid you not (now I have to train the beasts not to make these don't become their new beds! Ay yi yi...my giant Sheppard jumped on them last night and I had the shooo the poor girl off).

This little project has been a long time comin'...and I feel so happy that it's all done. And now I can actually sit on my couches...how cool is that? LOL

Happy Sunday my friends!!!

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My nugget of wisdom...get rid of old stuff that you don't use anymore! Purging is good for the soul! And donating items just makes you feel good!!!

I'm mellow yellow...

noreply@blogger.com (Caroline) — Sat, 14 Apr 2012 00:06:00 +0000

Oh Lordy...I have a slight PuglyPixel addiction. For $5.00 a month you can be a puglypixel member and you will have access to LOADS of incredible downloads...cool brushes, frames, add-ons...OMG! This frame below is from an exclusive set. Love love love her stuff!!!

Hello my dears! How are you this Friday (or what ever day it is that you might be reading this...)? I hope you are well and happy and all that good shit.

Can you guess that I am sorta crushing on yellow right now? What is it about the Spring that makes the color yellow so pale and lovely? Hmmmmm. So I am sitting here thinking about life (yeah...I do that often...ponder). And it's been quite a wild ride for me these past few months or maybe year! I suppose it is for all of us at one time or another. But, I am trying to balance the highs and lows. Although...I do love me a good "life high" once and a while. The lows can suck it...but I suppose we need them to appreciate the good times, right?

*sigh*

I wish I had something more interesting to write...other than I am crushing on the color yellow at the moment. God, how lame am I???

Oh I did try to sell some nice couches on Craig"s list and I was contacted by a deaf person who said they would "courier" a payment to me and to please remove my post and give my furniture to their movers. Oh yes, they wanted my address, phone number and full name first. But again, we could not discuss this in person...you know, because of the deaf thing. OMG!!! I almost peed my pants. My friend told me to respond back saying that I never received the payment...but maybe I missed them because I was blind!!! LOL.

Ay yi yi...

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Loving this song right now!

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My nugget of wisdom...beware of weirdo's and fraudulent buyers/sellers on Craig's list!!! Oh and go make some lemonade with extra sugar if life is getting you down at the moment. Oh, you might want to add Vodka too :)

xoxo

P.S. I may not be on pinterest...but if you see anything here you like...you have my permission to pin it. :)