LURVE LOAVE LUFF

Let's get right to it, shall we?

Here's what made me feel all twitterpated, smile contagiously, giggle uncontrollably, etc.

• Small Talk via Note to Self: The Print Shop // I'm constantly checking Sarah's Society 6 Print Shop for new additions. I'm currently smitten with her latest illustrations, Small Talk and Tucked.

• Florid Clutch // Some of my favorite clutches come from Anthropologie, and I wouldn't mind adding this one to the ol' collection. I love the spring-like details paired with the perfect amount of texture and color. Swoon!

• LOVE Jumbo Letter Balloons // I must be under the spell of Gray Malin because I'm starting to think large metallic balloons should be required in all photos. In fact, I find myself drooling all over his recent shots taken in Kauai. 

• Small Arrow Bundle by Vogtsmith // I recently read this quote about arrows, and I can't stop thinking about their encouraging symbolism. I'm convinced we need to hang an arrow in our house, and these ones created from salvaged wood and twine are a work of art. Don't you agree?!

• True Love Clipboard // It's true, I've caught the love bug, but isn't that supposed to happen as we get closer to Valentine's Day? I'm currently loving Rachel's latest heart-inspired pieces.

• Silk Peplum Veranda Top // I honestly don't have many red pieces in my wardrobe. I think Diana Vreeland would be disgusted. It's not that I don't love red, but I'm kind of picky when it comes to the color. It has to be just right. Do you know what I'm talking about? Madewell nailed it with this particular top. I find myself craving more of the shade.

• Jonathan Adler for Paperless Post // I mentioned the website earlier this week, but I had to share this cheerful Valentine.

• Active Moisture Vitamin C Serum // The older I get, the more I obsess about my skin. I really should have listened to my mom because the wrinkle on my forehead keeps getting deeper and deeper. But should I really be penalized for being so expressive?! My goodness! I've heard rave reviews about One Love Organics, and I'm tempted to give their skincare line a shot. Danielle from Thyme is Honey has the prettiest complexion and she attributes a lot of that to OLO's products. If it gets her seal of approval, it must be pretty fabulous! I think I'll start with this travel kit first.

• Lucky Horseshoe by Cast & Crew // I was ready to visit Marfa like YESTERDAY. The more shops I discover, the more excited I become. I hope to make our first trip this May for our 6th anniversary. Until then, I'll just ogle over images and stalk Cast & Crew's online shop. I wouldn't mind adding one of these horseshoes to a gallery wall for good luck.

• Eastern Collective USB Cable // Yes, I know it's just a cable, but it's an aesthetically pleasing cable. I think this should be acknowledged because details like this don't happen as often as I would prefer.

Cheers to a snazzy weekend! Make it count.

P.S. I know what you're thinking, "Arrows and a horseshoe as house decor? She's off her Eames Rocker!" I haven't gone off the deep end; I just prefer to be eclectic. Aside from these knick-knacks, I don't intend to embrace a Southwestern motif of Kokopelli, cast iron Texas stars, and Terracotta. That will happen when pigs fly and you can bet my mom would organize some sort of intervention.

THURSDAY'S THOUGHTS

FEELING: I never realized I was someone who needed sunshine regularly to flourish. I blame Hawaii for my reliance on sunny weather. After a handful of gloomy days, I clicked my heels when the sun finally returned on Wednesday. I felt inspired and happy. I imagine the way I felt inside looked something similar to this print from Colourbox Boutique.

LISTENING TO: It's no secret I'm a BIG fan of Sara Bareilles, and "Brave" is clearly one of m' fave jams—maybe even a personal anthem. My love for the song was kicked up a notch after Sara teamed up with Carole King and performed a medley of "Brave" and "Beautiful" at the Grammys last Sunday. Say what?!? As a child, I can't tell you how many weekend road trips were spent singing along to Carole King's greatest hits. I just love that two of my favorites came together for such an incredible performance.

THANKFUL FOR: Last November, Kaylee of Kaylee Daily emailed me about exchanging fun packages with one another. I loved the idea and jumped at the opportunity to send each other a box o' happy! Throughout 2014, we'll be alternating months and sending one another random boxes filled with pretty little things. Kaylee kicked off the new year and sent me a box for January. It was packed with glittery nail polish, an amazing bracelet, lip scrub, and a scarf. It was far too kind and was a total bright spot in my week! I can't wait to assemble her box for February. This is just SO much fun!

THINKING ABOUT: My sister's birthday is on Sunday. Woo Hoo! I'm SO excited for her packages to arrive; I think I have more fun picking out presents. Anywho, Aubrey got her wisdom teeth removed yesterday, and I have a feeling she could use a little birthday cheer! In fact, she'll probably want to get the vacuum ready because both boxes are chock-full of confetti. Oops!

EATING: Maybe it's just wishful thinking, but I have a feeling these cooler Texas temps will soon be a thing of the past. Naturally, I've used the cold weather as an excuse to make some of my favorite soups. This week, I made a quick and easy Creamy Tomato-Basil Soup. It's perfect for dunking a Grilled Cheese Sandwich. What? I never said it was a healthy meal!

WATCHING: While Flyboy was away, it didn't take me long to get caught up on m' shows, so I ended up watching Breakfast at Tiffany's on the iPad. I'm starting to think that every night should end this way. Beesly was invited into bed with me, I put on my favorite pajamas, made a cup of peppermint tea, and we fell asleep to the sound of Audrey Hepburn and George Peppard. How divine!

LOVING: J.Crew's new arrivals have me sporting a double-barrel grin. Yup! Now, if I could just prioritize my wish list (and maybe win the lottery...). I'm thinking a trip to the store is in my future this weekend. My fingers are crossed! As always, I'm intrigued by the latest selection of wovens (button downs, popovers, etc.), and that silk snood is calling my name. 

What about you? How are you feeling today? What are you up to?

IMAGE CREDITS: RISOGRAPH PRINT // BIRTHDAY GIRL CARD // SILK SNOOD // DIY PAPER BOWS // BRAVE // BREAKFAST AT TIFFANY'S // TOMATO SOUP

ART TO ENSEMBLE

THE ART:

Le Cronut by Anna Bond

THE ENSEMBLE:

Yellow Oversized Satchel

Lip Bullet in Back in the Game

The Infamous Cronut

The d'Orsay Flat in Spot Dot

Linen Tête-à-Tête Tee

Ban.do Sequin Heart

Floral Lace Stripe Skirt

CARDS FROM CUPID

VALENTINE'S DAY CARD ROUND-UP:

Skips A Beat by Paperless Post*

Love Parade by Dear Hancock

You're The One by ASHKAHN 

Je T'aime by Parrott Design Studio

Amour by Pei Design

To My Valentine by Rifle Paper Co.

So Very Lovely by Anemone Press

Underwear Bear by Egg Press

Raspberry Love by Sugar Paper

Happy Valentine's Day by Quill & Fox

I'm So Glad We're A Thing by Emily McDowell

Hottie Hot Dog by Paperless Post*

You're Spec-tacular by Hello Small World

Perfect Match by Pei Design

Be Mine Heart by Sugar Paper

Blossom Heart Stationery by Sugar Paper

*Don't feel like spending any money on Valentines? No time for snail mail? 

You'll want to check out Paperless Post!

LIFE'S LITTLE DETAILS

"The details are not the details. They make the design." — Charles Eames

Happy Monday, m' dears! As Flyboy preps for a quick cross-country trip this week—we're talking like one day—it got me thinking about how much time we've spent together since we left Hawaii. It's incredible, and I think I've become quite spoiled! I started to take this new norm for granted, and I'm reminded once again why this move to Texas should be treated as a gift. I guess something happens when you get married—or perhaps we're just really old souls—but you know you've hit a groove as a couple when weekends filled with matinees, grocery shopping, a bottle of Two-Buck Chuck, and an evening of Netflix leave you feeling joyful and grateful. There were so many weekends spent alone in Hawaii where I looked forward to the days when we could truly delight in the mundane. As a creature of habit, I love this kind of routine—one that's filled with simple moments that should be cherished. Nothing terribly exciting occurred this weekend, but we were together.

THE DETAILS:

• We're really enjoying the juicer we got for Christmas. I've learned that it is possible to add TOO much grapefruit to the mix. Oh, the best part of juicing? The bold colors of each concoction. Of course, I've mixed some fruits and veggies together that result in rather hideous hues as well. Eww!
• Hell froze over in south Texas last week. It was the perfect excuse to whip out matches, light a candle, and watch Bravo. It's probably the closest we'll come to having a snow day.
• Get your cocktail shakers ready! I'm working with my sister's beau to create a signature One Fine Day drink. Yup! I'm still waiting on my "personal mixologist" to perfect the snazzy recipe; however, I do know that it will include gin (Duh!), and I'll call it the Texas Tipple. I imagine it will be delish!
• I've found you can turn any Monday around with push-pop confetti. I'm serious, it helps a lot!
• The handsome gent in specs would be my dad. I received this picture from my mom. Apparently, he's creating his very own gin. I couldn't be more proud. I only wish we were around to sample his spirits.
• If it wasn't apparent in last week's posts, I really love Austin. I can't get enough of the food, art, shops, etc. How fabulous is the colorful mural on that brick wall? It's so happy!
• Looking for a good read? I recommend The Gifts of Imperfection by Brené Brown. I've had a lot of ah-ah moments.

Enough about me, how about you? What did you do this weekend that left you grinning from ear to ear?

LURVE LOAVE LUFF

Let's get right to it, shall we?

Here's what made me feel all twitterpated, smile contagiously, giggle uncontrollably, etc.

• Iris and Jenna // I can always rely on these two, specifically this picture, for a pick-me-up!
• Color Cord Company // My mom introduced me to this company, and I've got a gazillion ideas dancing around in my head. Oh, the possibilities! I can't even wait to place an order for our new place.
• Heart Paperweight // After reading about Anna's (In Honor of Design) trip to Sugarboo and Co., I had to visit their website again. While I love their product line and own a few of their pieces,  the brick and mortar store looks even cuter than I'd imagined. I'm thinking a trip to Atlanta is in order at some point! 
• Ban.do Twist Scarf // I consider myself a Ban.do junkie, so I was tickled to see their new arrivals. I wonder how long it will take before I add this scarf to my collection. The simple pattern is spot on.
• Canvas Bag // Another delightful find from Sugarboo's website. These postcards are pretty cute, too!
• Teddie Convertible Bag // I'm eager to see J.Crew's spring arrivals, so I've been stalking the website. Not much is new, but this bag is a-mazing! The size is perfect, and I love that it can be worn as a crossbody. Hubba! Hubba!
• Sequin Embellished Stripe Scarf // Sequins. Check! Stripes. Check! Make a bold statement with a side of sparkle.
• Sugar Paper Love Note // I wouldn't mind keeping a stack of these note cards handy.
• Gourdough's Donuts // I can't stop thinking about the Mama's Cake Donut I ate last Sunday. There are no words to fully describe how ridiculously great that fudgy and fried confection was—definitely a food moment I won't forget!
• Daily Lettering // I could spend hours on this Tumblr. The loopy A is kind of how I felt this week. Ha!
• Essie Resort 2014 // I can't wait to get my hands on a bottle of Cocktails & Coconuts. It seems like a great neutral shade and totally reminds me of warm sand. The fact that there's a subtle amount of shimmer sweetens the deal!
• Sole Society Sam Flats // Fact: you can NEVER have enough flats. This pair has me dreaming of spring.
• Typewriter via Elizabeth Graeber // After this post, I'm even more obsessed with Graeber's work. It's SO good!

Cheers to a snazzy weekend! Make it count, m' dears.

FEELING BUZZED

How amazing are these Bee Happy Smoking Slippers from C.Wonder?

I'm in love, I'm in love, and I don't care who knows it!

THURSDAY'S THOUGHTS

FEELING: I always wish I lived closer to my parents and my sister, but this was one of those weeks it would have been incredibly handy to just jump in the car and arrive at their doorstep with a hug. Those near and dear to me experienced some form of disappointment, and I just felt helpless. In cases like this, no piece of colorful snail mail or pep talk on the phone will seem to do. I wish I could have just sat down with them and listened to their feelings, while offering some sort of embrace to show how much I believe in them and how proud I am to call them family.

LISTENING TO: A buzzing cell phone signaling texts from Best Mom Ever (Snow day in D.C. Woot! Woot!), the annoying Yorkie across the street that insists on yapping incessantly, and iTunes radio as it cycles through the weekly top 50.

THANKFUL FOR: This past weekend, Flyboy and I felt somewhat confined by our temporary digs and we just needed a reason to get outside and explore. We spent Sunday in Austin visiting some of our (okay, maybe that should be "my" instead) favorite shops, wandering the streets, and brunching at Moonshine. We even tried a local craft gin, Waterloo, in this grapefruit and cucumber cocktail. Delish! Oh, and our waitress showed us a special hiding spot in the brick wall near our table, so I wrote a super secret note on the back of my blogger card and hid it behind the loose brick. Cool, huh?! Needless to say, I had the BEST time! It's not everyday that you get to enjoy insanely gluttonous donuts from Gourdough's and witness a local Texan parked horseback at a corner bar. Austin, you're strange and I love you!

THINKING ABOUT: I have the urge to get crafty, so I picked up some supplies at Paper Source this past weekend. I can't wait to start making Valentine's Day cards for my family and friends. I like my artsy with a little bit of fartsy! It's getting to be that time of year when you get to smother others with hearts and everything is drenched in shades of pink and red. I love it!

EATING: I stumbled upon this recipe, Chicken and Lime Soup, on Pinterest and figured it was worth a shot. I added black beans and corn to the recipe and served it with chunks of avocado. It was cheap, tasty, and I didn't mind having leftovers.

WATCHING: As per usual, I'm watching anything and everything on Bravo. I couldn't be more excited for March's show lineup. Of course, there's the return of Flipping Out (Zoila, I've missed your sass!) and I'm intrigued by Southern Charm. On another note, I didn't mind Courtney Kerr on Most Eligible Dallas, but she irritates the heck outta me on Courtney Loves Dallas. I should also mention that I haven't missed an episode, so I must be a glutton for punishment!

LOVING: After living in Hawaii, I kind of forgot what it was like to get really pale in the winter months. Yikes! I wouldn't say I'm tanorexic, but I must agree with my mom when she says a turkey looks better cooked. In an effort to add some color to my complexion, I picked up a tube of L'Oréal's Sublime Bronze Self-Tanning Gelee, and I don't mind it. The bronze color is subtle and it doesn't stink like other self-tanners I've tried in the past. Yay for safe and sunless tanning!

What about you? How are you feeling today? What are you up to?

ART I HEART: ELIZABETH GRAEBER

Illustrations by Elizabeth Graeber

This past week has been heavy on colorful images and light on words. Some weeks are like that, I suppose. But who really needs profound thoughts when you have Elizabeth Graeber's delightful work? If you've been a longtime reader of One Fine Day, then it's no surprise I've got a sweet spot for illustrations brimming with wonder and whimsy. I guess that's what you'd expect when you spent a good chunk of your childhood devouring Roald Dahl books and getting lost in the drawings of Quentin Blake. Lucky for me, the subjects of Graeber's work have matured just as I have. Instead of snozzcumber and frobscottle sketches, I can now grin over J.Crew's Edie Purse and iconic mid-century modern furniture.

So you're smitten with Elizabeth's work and you can't simply get enough...

Check out her website, blog, and shop!

NO REGRETSY!

Five Etsy treasures that made me push that little heart button...

1. SQUARE NOTEPAD via PENCIL SHAVINGS STUDIO // I don't think there's an item in Rachel's shop that I don't adore.
2. SUEDE SCALLOPED BALLET FLATS via ELE HANDMADE // How sweet are these?! Love the color selection!
3. LOVE WEEKEND BAG via PHILOSOPHIE VIA SOPHIE // This could make an adorable Valentine's Day gift (hint, hint).
4. NAUTICAL STRIPES DOG COLLAR via CHARLIE BE GOOD // Tripp needs a new accessory for spring. Stripes are perfect!
5. RING PLATE WITH RED HEARTS via ROSS LAB // A dainty dish to store earrings or rings.

Have you stumbled upon any like it, love it, gotta have it, Etsy treasures lately?

MONDAY MOODBOARD

How about a little visual sunshine to kick off the week?

Bodhisattva via Andrew Shachat

Do Not Open via Erik Marinovich

Red Swatch via BP&O

Stationery via Delphine

J.Crew Lookbook Fall 2011

Neon Pink Toe Cap Otavi

Green Ribbon via One Kings Lane

Bobbi Brown Lip Color in Neon Pink

Barbie Blood via Charmaine Olivia

Sheldon Navy Sofa via Furbish

Ampersand by Moshik Nadav

LURVE LOAVE LUFF

Let's get right to it, shall we?

Here's what made me feel all twitterpated, smile contagiously, giggle uncontrollably, etc.

• Pendant Light: I saw this bad boy a week ago, and I can't stop thinking about it! Colorful, simple, and I'm smitten.
• Mondrian Print: This print made me so happy, it set the tone for today's colorful Love List.
• Ta Da! Quick Dry Drops: Could this be true? After painting my nails three times last week, I could use this stuff.
• Makeup Brush Guide: Is it bad that I own some of these brushes, but I'm still clueless as to how I should use them? Needless to say, I found this post incredibly helpful. Go on and pin this guide, m' dears!
• Spots Matchboxes: I totally kick myself for not buying these when I saw them. Please bring them back, Mandy!
• Fun Greeting Card: Sounds like the perfect motto for the three-day weekend! Woop woop!
• Full Stripy Skirt: I had a slight meltdown yesterday, and I'm sorry to say that Flyboy was around to endure it. You see, it feels like spring in Texas. Yahoo! The warmer temps make me eager to bust out my favorite skirts and dresses. Oh, that's right... I couldn't bring everything with me and my wardrobe is limited at the moment. Le sigh. Not to mention, I'm the palest I've been in years! I dream of adding a little color to my complexion and wearing skirts like this one. The fruit punch color and the timeless stripe pattern just scream Ashley.
• Golden Globes Backstage Polaroids: Oh, Meryl, Amy, and Tina, can we just be best friends already?
• Mango and Soda Cocktail: A refreshing low-cal drink made with Aviation Gin. I think we need to stock the bar cart with this. In honor of Flyboy, of course! Alright, okay... the bottle is just really pretty!
• DIY Gold Sequin Hearts: Who says you need Valentine's Day to bust out the glitter and hearts? Ha!
• Printed Pointy Flats: If loving shoes is wrong, I don't want to be right! Size 8 please, and thanks!
• Tufted Ottoman: Target does it again with this rich looking piece. I'm not sure where I'd put it, but how can you beat the price? Not to worry, I went ahead and put it on my list of things to see this weekend.

Cheers to a snazzy weekend! Make it count.

LIFE LIST UPDATE

TEN THINGS I HOPE TO CROSS OFF MY LIFE LIST IN 2014:

1. Learn calligraphy. Oh, it's happening! Lauren Essl's work makes me want to perfect my script.
2. Splurge on a snazzy personalized address stamp. Because we move frequently, I'm always hesitant to pull the trigger on this one. It's going to be a LONG time until we have a permanent address, so why wait any longer?
3. Swap our current desk for a Parsons. Ever since my first architecture course in college, I've lusted over this iconic piece.
4. Visit Charleston. Our friends just moved there, and I've got an itch to share one of my favorite cities with Flyboy!
5. Wear spectacles. If I wait for my eyesight to worsen, I'll never get to wear glasses. This is my year to find a pair that suits me and be bold enough to sport them with confidence. Also, isn't it like a blogger's rite of passage?!
6. See Garth Brooks in concert with my dad. Flyboy and I saw Garth in concert in 2007, but part of me has always felt a little guilty that I saw him perform before my dad. Now that GB announced his 2014 tour, I know it's meant to be!
7. Drive a truck down a gravel road with George Strait blaring on the radio. When we moved to Hawaii from Texas, I had regrets about this one. Now that we're back in TX and Flyboy still has his truck, I'm going to make this top priority.
8. Buy a pair of cowboy boots. I realize items 6 through 8 make me seem like a real honky. When in Texas...
9. Spend a weekend in Marfa, TX and get lost in the world of Donald Judd. This can't happen soon enough!
10. Bake a cake using edible gold glitter. The real question, why has it taken me so long to cross this one off the list?!

And in case you were wondering, I crossed the following items off my list in 2013:

• Overcome my fear of wearing boots. After 16 years of pining over wellies, I worked up the courage to wear them.
• Attend a fancy blog workshop or conference, like Blogshop or Alt Summit. (Thanks, mom and dad!)
• Splurge on fancy business/blogger cards! (Thanks, mom and dad!)
• Find the perfect storage container (vintage suitcase?) and create a stationery wardrobe.
• Learn how to drive a stick shift so I can eventually own a Jetta TDI — They made an automatic TDI! Woo Hoo!
• Buy a fancy font or two for m' blog! 

Do you have a Bucket List? Have you crossed anything off? What will you tackle it in 2014?

IMAGE CREDITS: 1.) Calligraphy Practice Guide, Nibs, Gouache, Washi Tape 2.) Personalized Stamp 3.) Parsons Desk, Chair, Flowers 4.) Charleston 5.) Preston Eyeglasses 6.)  Garth Brooks Ticket Stub 7.) Truck 8.) Cowboy Boots 9.) Prada Marfa 10.) Celebrate Cake Topper

ART I HEART: THE MINTED EDITION

ART I HEART: Abstract Brights by Kelly Nasuta // Peony Bottle by Betty Hatchett //
Bauhaus by Guy Jean-Baptiste // Something Borrowed by That Girl Studio // Big Heart by Jorey Hurley

Since I started blogging, I've found that I'm always on the lookout for things I find lovely. I think that's the greatest gift that One Fine Day has given me these past 2.5 years—I'm in constant pursuit of details which fill me up with beauty. Whether it's an image, quote, color, or fancy type, I know when I've found something worth sharing because I can feel my eyebrows arch and my eyes light up with excitement. Whenever this occurs, I feel the need to warn those in the immediate vicinity. Yep, the ol' baby blues are about to pop outta my head. Hey, I never said I wasn't dramatic! I guess I just love that feeling, and I think that's what keeps me coming back to blog. While the search to post fabulous content can vary each day—some days are more successful than others—it's often the haphazard clicking and skipping around the Internet that proves to be most fruitful. For instance, I haven't been on Minted's website for far too long. I sometimes forget that the site is great for things OTHER than Christmas cards. Anywho, I managed to spend a good chunk of my Tuesday morning ogling over their selection of art prints. From there, I started scribbling down the names of artists and graphic designers that I wanted to learn more about. I hit a gold mine! Google always comes to the rescue and provided me with oodles of info to keep me feeling inspired for quite some time.

Aside from sharing super cute and affordable prints with you today, there's a moral to this post. Always be on the hunt for beautiful details that ignite some sort of excitement in your day. Find what makes your eyes light up and get lost in it!

P.S. Tomorrow I'll be sharing a few things I hope to cross off my LIFE LIST in 2014! So much for spontaneity...

TUESDAY SHOES DAY

Maybe it's just me, but the slingback seems to be the "it" shoe for spring. Lucky for us, Boden's collection is stupid cute! At $108, they're cheaper than J.Crew's current selection AND there are more options to choose from. These shoes are just too adorable for me to keep to myself. Take a look at the punchy colors and playful patterns. I guarantee you'll be smitten!

BODEN'S POINTED SLINGBACKS:

Sunflower Spot

Silver

Camelia and Papaya Stripe

Navy Spot

Black and Pearl Stripe

Hibiscus

Persian Green

Which pair would you pick? Happy Shoes Day!

P.S. Boden is constantly mailing coupons with their catalogs. Request one here!

LIFE'S LITTLE DETAILS

"The details are not the details. They make the design." — Charles Eames

Happy Monday, m' dears! I bet you knew this post was coming, didn't you?! Now that we're a week back into our routine in Texas, I thought it was time to relive some of my favorite moments from the past few weeks. After a whirlwind, it's always nice to reflect on the details that make life oh-so sweet. Whenever I stop to notice all the good, I'm reminded I'm blessed in bliss.

THE DETAILS:

• Based on the shoes, jewelry, and nail polish I've acquired lately, I think I'm a big fan of Radiant Orchid. Thanks to Pantone, I've incorporated shades of purple into my life. Hooray for living colorfully!

• I've waited several months to get to use our giant 1Canoe2 wall calendar. It makes me excited for 2014 and the opportunity to finally settle in Swell Rio. If you know anything about this small border town in southwest Texas, you'll know this gleeful feeling could be a first. Ha Ha!

• After almost two weeks in Missouri, the pups seem to be going through a depression. They loved the open space to run and play. Life was quiet and they got oodles of attention! What's not to love? Now that we've returned to San Antone, they're back to their old tricks and it's like we're living in an apartment for the first time AGAIN. Lord, help me! Tripp and Beesly test my patience daily. Thank goodness they're really cute, they make me smile so big my cheeks hurt, and they warm my feet while I sit at the computer.

• Fact: Hunter wellies have this weird way of making you feel as fabulous as Kate Middleton whenever you throw them on and you trample around in the countryside. This could be my favorite discovery from the holiday season!!

• Yes, Tripp's slobber is frozen in that picture above. You didn't just make that up. That's what we like to call big dog problems around here.

• There's something incredibly funny about seeing Flyboy's truck adorned with Hawaii plates and icicles. Maybe it's just me, but one of these things just doesn't belong...

• Unfortunately, I didn't take many pictures when visiting with my sister. Le sigh. I guess we were too busy brunching, antiquing, and doing sister stuff. Or maybe I was just too buzzed on my very first Bloody Mary to whip out my camera?! At any rate, time with her was wonderful!

• We have a handful of friends who are all expecting babies over the next few months. Eek! It's no secret that I love to pick out gifts, so this has been an absolute blast. In fact, I kind of feel like Miss Winfrey because I get to buy my favorite things as gifts, but in miniature form. Insert Oprah voice here and shout: "You get a pair of Sperry Top-Siders and you're going to be smothered in all things stripes and polka dots!"

• Fact: Returning home to a mailbox chock-full of snail mail makes my heart very happy.

• When Flyboy was in ROTC at Mizzou and we were just dating, I remember him declaring that he would buy a new road bike once he made the rank of captain. Looking back, that felt so far away. Ha Ha! Ten years later, he made that dream a reality and splurged on his dream bike. Words can't express how BIG this felt for both of us. He's worked really hard and he rarely treats himself, so it was fun to see him so giddy.

• Speaking of Mizzou, how about the Missouri Tigers and their incredible win at the Cotton Bowl? Woop Woop!

• Finally, I realized when I'm taking pictures of my lemon water for Instagram, that we're back to the old mundane and that's a-okay with me! We're in the home stretch now. That's such a great feeling!

Alright, enough about me. How about you? What makes you grin from ear to ear?