THURSDAY'S THOUGHTS

UNPLANNED MAGIC 2 BY MARCUS WALTERS

THANKFUL FOR:  This weekend I'll hit the 30-week mark. I can't help but feel fortunate that the past 7.5 months have gone so smoothly. Aside from the nutty emotions and hormonal fits I faced in the first trimester, I've been incredibly blessed to remain so healthy. I pretty much carry on with my day-to-day as I always have—this time I have a large growth hanging out in my midsection. 

EATING: I can't say I've really craved anything in particular throughout this pregnancy, but on Sunday evening I proclaimed I couldn't stop thinking about cheesecake. After I shared this nugget of info with Flyboy and the pups, I swear I saw recipes pop up on Pinterest like crazy. All of these delicious images clogged my feed to taunt me. Make it STOP! I'm trying to practice some restraint here. Then, I was watching the morning news on Wednesday and they announced it was National Cheesecake Day. Who even knew that existed?! I certainly didn't, but I promise you it was a deliberate sign that I need a slice in my life and stat. It's SO happening this weekend.

WATCHING: I'm down for any show Bravo throws my way. Naturally, I was excited when I learned about their latest docu-series called Extreme Guide to Parenting, which premieres August 7th. In some delusional way, I feel like it's Andy Cohen's subtle nod to me that this whole parenthood thing is going to be a-okay. Oh, and I can only imagine the whackadoodles they came up with this time.

FEELING: I can't help but feel a teensy bit guilty about the way I've let my inbox get out of control. When I was in Iowa a few weeks ago, I never really had a reason to check my email, Facebook, or Instagram, and it was quite lovely. As a result, my inbox is still filled with a handful of emails that I REALLY need to respond to. If you're someone who might be waiting on a reply from yours truly, please know that it's nothing personal and that I will eventually get around to it. Some days I spend so much time at the computer doing freelance stuff, sitting down to compose an email or two just feels tedious.

THINKING ABOUT: I can tell it's time to call my sister when I start discussing celebrity gossip with Flyboy. Insert dramatic eye roll here. For instance, on Tuesday evening I read this article in the NY Post about Mrs. Carter (can we still call her that?!). Anywho, I had the urge to chitchat about what I'd just read. I mentioned rumors about 'Yonce's recent apartment hunt sans Hova. Gasp! FB responded, "What does that mean for baby North?" With a look of disgust, I shook my head, slapped him, and said "That's Kimye, you nut!" Totally NOT the same. Now I realize there are many things wrong with this scenario. Yes, this is a trivial headline in the big scheme of things, but sometimes a girl just needs to dish. Don't judge. One day this information will come in handy in a game of Jeopardy or Trivial Pursuit. You'll want me on your team. Also, I can assure you I don't abuse my husband—it was more of an impulsive love tap.

LISTENING TO: I should remind you that we live on an Air Force base, so whenever I head into Swell Rio for errands and whatnot, I have to pass through the main gate with military personnel checking identification as you enter. I went into town yesterday and as I returned I was listening to Salt-N-Pepa's Shoop. It's an upbeat classic that's especially fun to sing when you're alone and uninhibited in your vehicle. Who's with me?! Whenever I approach the main gate, I'm always cognizant of the gate guards, so I turn the volume completely down so they don't have to hear m' tunes. And if I'm being completely honest, I don't want them to judge me by what I'm listening to. Well, let's just say that yesterday was an exception to my "usual" routine. Oops! I rolled up to the gate with my window down and the lyrics were blaring—again, totally unlike me. It was only when I handed the kind airman my ID that I realized my music was still really loud. Imagine the embarrassment that came over me when I heard the following bit playing: 

Ummm, you're packed and you're stacked 'specially in the back

Brother, wanna thank your mother for a butt like that (thanks, Mom)

Can I get some fries with that shake-shake booty?

If looks could kill, you would be an Uzi

You're a shotgun—bang! What's up with that thang?

I wanna know, how does it hang?

You guys, I couldn't reach for the volume fast enough. As with most things, I know I'm over thinking this one, but the gentleman did comment on my great choice in song. While I'm grateful this whole scenario played out smoothly, I think I'm going to blame this isolated incident on "pregnancy brain" and just stick to my usual routine in which I turn down the music before I hand over my ID.

READING: I picked up the August issue of Vanity Fair and Real Simple recently, but I've yet to devote quality time to each publication as I'd like. As a result, I plan on catching up with my glossy pals this weekend, preferably poolside. I'll admit that my reading game has been off a bit lately. If only poring over the latest West Elm catalog qualified, then you could call me a bookworm.

LOVING: Have you heard of Poolga? I'm beyond obsessed with this website that offers oodles of art for your iPhone and iPad. The adorable backgrounds are FREE and created by selected illustrators. I wasted about 30 minutes one morning just scrolling through the artwork available. The best part?? Each background featured shares a link to its creator, so it's a great way to learn about new artists and explore more of their work. You know how I get a rush from things like that...

Enough about me. How are you feeling today? What are you up to? Thanks for stopping by!!

GOING POSTAL ANNOUNCEMENT

NOTE: AUGUST PEN-PAL ASSIGNMENTS WILL BE SENT OUT NEXT WEEK.

Last November, I set up a Snail Mail Exchange. Within hours of the post being published, emails poured into my inbox with old and new readers eager to participate. Honestly, it made me giddy with delight! Over the past nine months, word has spread about #OFDGOINGPOSTAL and this little social experiment has taken off. Seeing strangers from Melbourne to mid-Missouri connect via card stock and Washi tape makes my heart oh-so happy. Thank you! You've restored my faith in old-fashioned correspondence. I love it!

I wasn't exactly sure how long it would be before the Snail Mail Exchange would run its course. As we get closer to our little guy's arrival in October, I feel it's important that I prioritize some of my to-dos. While it's been a thrill to coordinate #OFDGOINGPOSTAL, I've decided August will be the last month in which I assign pen pals. I say this with a heavy heart, but I feel it's best for the time being. To those of you who have participated with enthusiasm, I appreciate all you've done to spread a little sunshine.

After nine months of colorful card stock and confetti, I think we can all agree that parcels and post will always be best.

IMAGE CREDITS: PEN // SNAIL

TAKE FIVE TUESDAY

I mentioned it briefly awhile back, but this past Spring my skin was in a tizzy. I could chock it up to stress, hormones, or the dry Swell Rio climate—I just knew I wanted to fix it, but I wasn't sure how. After testing a bunch of preggo-safe beauty products, nothing seemed to work. I felt like I was being kicked when I was down. That "glow" that everyone talks about felt like a ginormous load of malarkey, because my skin certainly wasn't getting any better. I scrolled through countless product reviews and spent hours reading blog posts with advice from the pregnant pros. Finally, I switched up my regimen and incorporated these Mario Badescu products into my daily routine. After using these five products for the past few months, I thought they were worthy of a little bloggie praise.

1. Enzyme Cleansing Gel $7 // In addition to properly moisturizing my skin, I attribute most of my recent success to this cleanser. I use it once a day with my Clarisonic, and it removes the day's makeup without drying my complexion. Hallelujah!
2. Haluronic Eye Cream $18 // Lightweight and doesn't agitate my sensitive skin. I can't say that I've noticed any immediate results, but I love the way it hydrates my skin—prepping and priming the under-eye area for my trusty NARS concealer.
3. Vitamin C Serum $45 // I've tried a handful of various serums (all price points), but I never found one that I really loved. Like most people, I want to see some results and FAST—I guess patience has never really been m' thing! I typically apply 3-4 drops to my face each evening before I apply my night cream. Paired together, these two allow my sensitive skin to retain moisture. I'm pleased with the way the serum has brightened my overall complexion and has smoothed the texture of my skin.
4. Oil-Free Moisturizer $22 // I knew I needed a moisturizer with SPF; however, my skin is easily irritated, so I never really found one that I loved. This one is gentle, moisturizing, and doesn't leave me feeling greasy. Pesky breakouts be gone. Woo Hoo!
5. Seaweed Night Cream $20 // It's moisturizing, but doesn't feel heavy—hydrating without feeling oily. I've found that it's perfect for my combination skin and soothes any redness in my complexion. I wake up and my skin feels smooth, not greasy. A little goes a long way, so you can't beat the price, especially with all of the spendy night creams available. 

I realize this post is heavy on the Mario Badescu end. While it's not a sponsored post, I've had a lot of success with their line since I started dabbling with their products (off and on) about three years ago. I'm really pleased with the results, and I noticed my overall outlook on pregnancy turned around once I stopped battling with icky breakouts and dryness. Thank goodness! I should note that some women don't experience any of this nonsense while they're expecting. In the name of keeping things real around here, I felt it was important to share my side of the story. When your hormones are whack and your body is changing, it's nice to have a win.

Are there any skincare products that you swear by?! The product junkie inside me is just dying to know.

MONDAY MOODBOARD

How about a dose of virtual sunshine to jump start the work week? Perhaps seaside is best. 

Wade in the Water by Teil Duncan

Pantone Swatches via J.Crew Blog

Fuchsia Fringe Pillow via Furbish Studio

Coral Tassel Earrings via Frieda & Nellie

Sailor-Stripe Underwire Swimsuit via J.Crew

Sachajuan Hair in the Sun via J.Crew

Ruffle Your Feathers Polish via Essie

Turquoise Baggu Small Clutch via Baggu

Let the Sea Set You Free via A Fabulous Fete

No More Boring Art Keytag via Poketo

Yours by Jen Cross

Landon Flip Flops via Coach

Kelly Green Campaign Dresser via Land of Nod

Happy Happy Monday, sweet readers!

LURVE LOAVE LUFF

Let's get right to it, shall we?

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

• Scallops Print by Note To Self // I've had my eye on this print for awhile, but I'm still not sure where I'd put it. Does this ever happen to you?! I've noticed that I keep using "Max's nursery" as my primary excuse to hoard cute artwork lately.
• Dress Your Tech by Julie Song // Each Thursday, I look forward to DLF's Dress Your Tech series. This week, I couldn't help but be inspired by this Ralph Waldo Emerson quote. It's incredibly important to be honest with yourself.
• On the Dot Bangle // I have a feeling I'd wear this little guy on repeat. Does anyone do bangles better than Kate Spade?!
• Bell White Flush Mount Lamp // Many of you keep asking for a house tour, and it kind of stresses me out. It's not that I don't want to show you what we've done with the place (because I'm super proud of how far it's come), but we live in base housing. Believe me when I say there's no magic filter to get rid of the grody linoleum flooring and popcorn ceilings. Ha Ha! While Lil' Puna had its a-mazing view, we were able to hide many of the rental's imperfections, but it took some time. I've found that swapping out little details like ugly fixtures can make a HUGE difference. This light fixture might be one of those small updates that makes an impact—or at least that's what I'm hoping... 
• Harper Scalloped Suede Flats // Remember my Magic Pot Shoes? Let me jog your memory with this post. Aside from the silly story that's synonymous with my favorite skimmers, I absolutely LOVE these shoes. Of course, J.Crew had to up the ante and add a snazzy scallop detail. I honestly didn't think I could love them any more. Please don't tempt me. I might slap myself if I bought another pair of flats, but it would be totally worth it...  
• Double End Crystal Cuff // This may be hard to believe, but it's been months since I've added a new piece to my bauble collection. This cuff is cordially invited to the arm party. Répondez s'il vous plaît.
• Mrs. Godfrey Chair // When I came home from Iowa, Flyboy set up some of the pieces he picked up at Ikea. I'm incredibly smitten with the wingback chair we got for the nursery. As a result, I can't stop thinking about beautiful armchairs, especially colorful mid-century pieces. Some girls dream about diamonds and shoes, but I adore yummy upholstered chairs. If for some reason I fell into a pool of cash, you can bet I'd splurge on a few ridiculously amazing pieces.
• Ban.do Twist Scarf // This accessory has been on repeat this week. Why worry about washing your hair when you can throw it up with something this cute? Not to mention, it's just another stylish way to beat the summer heat.
• Bye Felicia Tee // When my sister texts me with a link and a handful of emojis, I know it must be important. In fact, I almost fell off my spin bike when I reached for my phone to see what this link was all about. Just as I imagined, my little sister did NOT disappoint. Tees in the Trap is an a-mazing site with tons of cheeky tees. I've got my eye on Bye Felicia, Adorbs, and Girl, Bye. If only they made one that says "Bye, Ashy." That would just be too perfect!
• Cardholder // As a card-carrying member of the Blair Ritchey fan club, I was ecstatic to see these added to her shop.

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

P.S. Thanks for your patience this week as I worked to get back into the bloggie groove. You're a peach!

THURSDAY'S THOUGHTS

Artwork by KT Smail

THANKFUL FOR: As the Swell Rio temps continue to rise and my belly continues to grow, I've found I have fewer wardrobe options than I'd prefer. Thankfully, a few trips to Target and Gap with my mom and sister restored my faith in getting dressed during the third trimester. Hallelujah! While I tried to find pieces locally at Marshalls and Ross, I always seemed to strike out. The stores here are so picked over, and I came awfully close to making some really bad choices out of desperation. For shame! I'm so grateful to have had them around for moral support and honest opinions in the dressing room. Phew! I think I came home with a handful of tops and dresses that will help me survive this Texas summer as stylishly as possible with a love goblin growing inside me.   

EATING: Remember the part in Tuesday's post where I mentioned I ate A LOT of really great food last week?! Well, bouncing back from eight days of overindulgence hasn't been easy. My aunt had so many tasty treats readily available, and each night since I returned home I've found myself standing at the pantry or refrigerator just praying one of those cookies or a slice of cake would magically reappear in Swell Rio. Le sigh. In an effort to keep my sweet tooth in check, I got a box of Tangerine and Carrot Popsicles. At 60 calories a bar, I satisfy my need for an evening treat and they remind me of my cousin's little girl, Lucy, who snacked on one of these "carrot bars" every night while we visited. After trying them, I can see why she's hooked—although, I still prefer a cookie...

WATCHING: I have a confession. I tuned in to the season finale of Real Housewives of New York City and I may have rewinded the part where Aviva slams her prosthetic leg on the table at least five or six times (watch clip here). I've been waiting for this moment all season. The expressions were priceless, especially Kristen's gasp. Andy Cohen, where do you find these people? Because I love it.  

FEELING: Back in April, my mom, sister, and I discussed our plans to visit Iowa this summer. I guess I knew the closer we got to our reunion in July, the closer we'd be to October and Max's impending arrival. For months I looked forward to seeing my family, but saying good-bye last week was especially hard because it meant the next time I saw them things would be different. So much of me is excited and curious about life with a little one; however, I still can't help but fear change. The night before I left Iowa, I laid in bed with my mom and I couldn't help but cry. It seems like every time we've parted over the past year, I've been anxious about something (moving, pregnancy, etc.). Just once I'd like to hug her good-bye and feel really confident about the direction in which my life is headed. Is that too much to ask? Ha Ha! If nothing else, couldn't I just try and fake it?? But I guess that's the thing about my mom, she has a way of exposing the most honest and vulnerable side of me. She gets me like no other.  

THINKING ABOUT: A little over a year ago, I bought this bright pink NARS blush. I couldn't get over the gorgeous color, but I knew if applied incorrectly it could be a disaster. Naturally, I turned to my makeup guru cousin for some tips. She suggested I apply the pigmented blush with this Yachiyo Kabuki Brush. I searched high and low for this fancy little tool and whenever I asked for help at Sephora or Nordstrom, I received nothing but looks of confusion. On a whim, I found it on my own and immediately added it to my brush collection. Now, a year later, I finally know how to use it properly. Ridiculous, isn't it?! While I was back in Iowa, I asked my cousin for some help and she broke it down into three simple steps: "Swirl. Tap. Bounce." It's been a week since I was enlightened and my mind is still blown. Swirl. Tap. Bounce. What's not to love about that?

LISTENING TO: Yesterday around 2:30 pm, I heard a door slam and Beesly started to bark. I was seated at my desk writing thank-you notes when I looked up to see Flyboy was home for a quick two-hour break in between flights. Say what?! This never happens. When he left Wednesday morning, I hadn't planned on seeing him again until around 9 o'clock that evening. Hooray for unexpected surprises! Some days can feel painfully long around here, so it was really nice to spend time together and break up the monotony.

READING: I wish I was sharing some fabulous article or quote with you this week; however, any free time I have right now is spent reading customer reviews. Mind you, it's not about fun stuff like snazzy matte lipstick or a miracle face wash. Nope. It's most likely a review about baby strollers or breast pumps. My goodness, why are there SO many options?! I think my brain might explode. Because I could use all the help I can get, feel free to weigh in with any bebe-related products that you prefer. It's greatly appreciated!

LOVING: For as long as I can remember, my dad has donned a pair of black Ray-Ban Wayfarer Sunglasses. These shades are synonymous with my father—they're classic Randy! One of the first gifts I opened at the baby shower was from my parents. I can only assume it was picked out by my mom; however, it was inspired by my pops. I looked inside the gift bag to find a baseball cap,

a navy polo, and a pair of miniature shades. I couldn't help but grin and sniffle at first sight. This little ensemble is the perfect ode to my dear dad. I can't wait to see Max and his Gampy in their matching outfits. Gah, it's going to be flipping a-dorable!

Enough about me. How are you feeling today? What are you up to? Thanks for stopping by!!

NEED READ GREED

Today's Need Read Greed, courtesy of the lovely Chelsea Tubbs of Chelsea and the City:

• NEED: We've had the same white Ikea couch since we got a place of our own four years ago, and I'm afraid it's on its last leg. While I'd love to lounge on this modern piece, Mr. Jackson has his heart set on a reclining Laz-E-Boy. Oh, the horror! 
• READ: I love a good book, don't get me wrong, but this momma rarely has time to wash her hair these days (HA! Something to look forward to Ashley). A few minutes spent inside the pages of my favorite magazines can be a totally recharging experience. With a few editorial projects coming up, I'm pulling a ton of inspiration from Kinfolk lately.
• GREED: I may not have anywhere to wear it, but this LBD is begging to come live in my closet! Dressed up with heels and dainty jewels, it would be such an easy breezy piece for the remainder of Summer. 

Thanks for sharing, Chelsea!! Your picks are just as fabulous as you are.

My mom and I were flipping through the latest West Elm catalog, and we're slightly obsessed with the Finn Sofa. Holy swoon!

P.S. Interested in sharing your Need Read Greed? Email me.

LIFE'S LITTLE DETAILS

For the love of Starbucks...

My sister and I did our best to capture a Gray Malin inspired photo. It wasn't easy.

Words can't express how much I love this little guy.

My nephew, Dupree, joined us in Iowa. // An afternoon at the Sioux City Art Center. // My precious Godson and his adorable little sister.

Fabulous chalkboard lettering at the baby shower courtesy of my über-talented cousin, Brianne.

Awkward Ashley doesn't disappoint in this "belly" photo with my sister (left) and cousin (right). Yikes!

We went antiquing in Mondamin, IA. Naturally, I was smitten with the bright color of this Model A Ford.

Howdy, m' dears! It's nice to get back to the ol' blah-blah-blahg. My time with family in Iowa was just perfect, and I'd be lying if I said the return to Swell Rio wasn't a tad bit hard. Of course I was eager to reunite with Flyboy, Tripp, and Beez, but I wasn't quite ready to say good-bye to my family. This past week, I was surrounded by oodles of love, and I was reminded yet again how truly blessed I am to have so many wonderful people in my life. Quality time was spent tuning into Bravo, and giggling about silly things like the variety of nipple creams available—absolutely insane, I tell you! Ha Ha! Any time I felt nervous or overwhelmed with doubt about my future as a "mom," I could share those fears with the people who know me best. More often than not, my silly concerns were met with a hug, joke, or an awkward belly rub. It's precisely the kind of support you hope to be surrounded by during times like these. Oh, and we ate an insane amount of comfort food (a preggo lady's dream). It was delightful and gluttonous, and I'm positive my spin bike won't be impressed this week. Oops! We even celebrated Max with a fabulous baby shower, which was organized by my cousin, Brianne, and my Aunt Candy. It was truly wonderful! We received so many generous and thoughtful gifts, I had to make a trip to Target to pick up an extra duffel bag to bring everything home. As I unpacked all of the goodies and organized the nursery yesterday, I found myself wishing I could rewind and experience last week all over again. It's not often that I get to be surrounded by so many family members all at once. I will cherish the memories we made forever. Last week was amazing.

LURVE LOAVE LUFF

Let's get right to it, shall we?

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

• Chocolate-Covered Stroopwafels // Have you heard of Mouth? They have everything from craft gins to caramels. I'm in!
• Petite Notes // Sugar Paper's latest batch of new arrivals made my heart skip a beat. No, I don't NEED another notebook, but gold foil gets me every time. Can't stop. Won't stop. It's a full-blown addiction.
• NARS Lipstick in Schiap // I still need to work up the courage to try this lipstick favorite. As my preggo wardrobe is rather blah, this might just be the snazzy kick I need. Have you tried it?!
• Sunglasses // A set of tortoiseshell sunnies for less than eight dollars. Are you stinkin' kidding me?
• Panama Hat // I love the addition of the Peony colored ribbon to this chic and classic hat. Amaze balls!
• Pom-Pom Scarf // The Love List is complete when there are pom-poms. You're welcome, sweet friends.
• Leather Satchel // I've never been a neutral gal, but this shade of grey is delish. It pairs beautifully with any color.
• Anchor Print // I'm thinking this giclee from Linda & Harriett might be a great addition to Max's gallery wall.
• Molteni Baby Skinsuits // With the Tour de France in full swing, I started Googling cycling apparel for babies. Ridonkulous, I know! But you should have seen the way Flyboy's face lit up when I showed him some of my finds.
• Double Cape Knot Bracelet // The perfect preppy-chic summer accessory. I love it! The price isn't too shabby, either.
• Blair Ritchey Wallet // Because a pop of Chartreuse is necessary. You know I'll be toting my Lulu with me next week.
• Haute in the Heat // In preparation for my trip next week, I'll need to slap on two coats of this Raspberry polish.

Cheers to a snazzy weekend! Make it count. 

P.S. I'll return to blogging on July 22nd. In the meantime, follow One Fine Day on Instagram.

THURSDAY'S THOUGHTS

via

THANKFUL FOR: When my in-laws visited this past holiday weekend, they agreed to take our convertible sofa with them and store it in Missouri. We originally planned to use the piece in Max's nursery, but the room ended up being a lot smaller than we'd hoped. Now that it's out of the way, I'm really pumped to start decorating. Eek, it's no longer just a storage room! Oh, and Flyboy has volunteered to buzz up to Austin after he drops me off at the airport this Saturday to pick up a few items at Ikea. Oh, how I love that guy! While I don't want to wish my time in Iowa away, I'm really excited that I have such fun tasks to return to.  

EATING: Last time I filled you in on my fruit affinity, it was ALL about cherries. Well, these days I can't get enough grapes. We've been going through multiple bags each week. I realize it's not the healthiest of fruits (gobs of sugar), but they're stinkin' delicious!

WATCHING: I've fallen hard for America's sweetheart. You guessed it! I'm talking about the Pop-Tart loving groundskeeper on this season of Big Brother. I'm smitten with Donny. Who's with me?! At first I was a bit skeptical and couldn't help but wonder if it was all an act. But after several episodes, it's clear this guy is sweeter than the sun tea he's used to sipping in his home state of North Carolina. He's got this child-like sincerity and oozes with kindness. You can't help but adore him!

FEELING: After last week's Blogaversary, I couldn't help but ride a high from all your feedback and encouragement. That being said, I sometimes wonder if One Fine Day has an expiration date. I can't help but question how this blog will fit into my life after Max arrives. I know for sure that this space brings me oodles of joy, but there are a lot of blogs out there that are very similar to mine. Just when I think I've created something that I feel is original to me, I see an image or graphic that reminds me I have to work harder to stay on top of my creative game. It's like I get slapped in the face and someone says "Hey, what you're doing isn't all that special or different!" While I love a good challenge and believe in pushing myself, it gets a tad bit disheartening and sucks some of the inspiration out of me. Next week, I'll be taking a break from the blog while I spend quality time with my family in the Midwest. I'm hoping some time away from staged Instagram photos and affiliate links will allow me the opportunity to recharge and focus on the joy this space brings me rather than the competitive side of bloggie mania.

THINKING ABOUT: In Swell Rio, there are three OBGYN doctors. I will most likely only meet mine twice—once in about a month and then again on D-Day. In the meantime, I am being seen on a regular basis by my nurse practitioner. This particular lady is a real hoot! A little (okay, a lot) nutty myself, I find solace in her kooky ways. She's in her late 50s and dons a pair of Clarks shoes, but don't let the conservative exterior fool you. Maybe it's just the nature of her profession, but she's totally out there and lovin' it—a real free-spirited gal. It never fails, at some point during each visit she asks me the following question: "And what are we making sure we do at every red light and commercial break?" At which point, I respond: "My kegel exercises." She smiles with her approval and says "Attagirl!" I guess I don't have the heart to tell her that some days I feel like being a rebel. I may just fast forward through the commercials or hit the gas whenever I see a yellow light. Oops!    

LISTENING TO: On July 5th, I knew I would spend the next three weeks waking up and going to bed to the sweet sounds of Phil Liggett and Paul Sherwen—both English commentators who cover the Tour de France. I was aware this was part of the deal when I married Flyboy, and I've actually grown to enjoy it. While it took me a few years to understand what the Peloton was (I'm a quick one), I still can't decipher most of their cycling gibberish. I just know that their voices are equally charming and relaxing. In fact, I'd like to request they commentate everything in life. Even when they deliver bad news, it still sounds somewhat cheerful. 

READING: Mary of Tulips and Flight Suits is one of the most insightful bloggers I know. I especially treasured a post she wrote last week, in which she shared her struggle to accept a calm life and how it sometimes conflicts with the innate need to feel busy. I think that's something many of us can relate to. In this post, she shares a few practical changes she's made to carve a life she loves living. As October approaches and we welcome a new season of life, I find comfort in Mary's blog. It's honest and refreshing!

WONDERING: My hair has been growing quickly, which means I see ashy outgrowth a lot sooner than I'd like. Eww! I even noticed my baby curls have reappeared at the temples of my forehead and they're a super light color. I sometimes forget that I'm naturally blonde (a mousey shade, not the pretty color), so I forget there's a really good chance Max could turn out to be blonde rather than brunette. I'm not entirely sure why it just NOW hit me, but I find myself wondering about it a lot lately.  

LOVING: I'm always down for a low-maintenance project, so I flipped when I saw Rue Magazine's simple Pom-Pom Placemats. The best part?! No sewing is required and I have a reason to purchase yards of colorful trim. Winning!

Enough about me. How are you feeling today? What are you up to? Thanks for stopping by!!

Q&A: Questions & Ashley

QUIRKY CORRESPONDENCE FOR ANY OCCASION

Over the past few weeks, I've received a handful of emails and they've all shared the same request. "Where do you buy all of your stationery?" Um, do you have an hour?! After compiling a letterpress list for a few dear readers, I figured it was time to share m' favorites in the form of a blog post. I apologize for getting all GIF happy this past week, but there are honestly too many cute cards to feature and I figured it was the best way for me to share a few I really adore. Now, on to the list... You down?!

• Sugar Paper // If I had to choose my all-time fave paperie, it would have to be this one. No question about it.
• Rifle Paper Co. // The first time I really splurged on pretty paper was during college and I owe the addiction to Rifle. 
• 1Canoe2 // My love for 1Canoe2 needs no explanation. Remember that time I visited their studio?! Holy swoon!
• Kate Spade New York // I sometimes feel like Kate Spade stationery is designed with me in mind. Can you say delirious?!
• 9th Letter Press // How can so much whimsical goodness be packed into one website?! Eek, I love it!
• Idlewild Co. // I've already added a few of their prints to my collection, now it's time to stock up on note sets.
• Thimblepress // Who couldn't use a doodle hug?! I don't mind sending or receiving cards designed by Kristen Ley.
• Quill & Fox // This is definitely one of my favorites on Etsy. It's usually my go-to for Valentine's Day and Easter.
• Pei Design // If I want to feel Parisian chic, I can rely on Pei Design for inspiration. That's kind of a paper must, right?
• Brim Papery // A recent addition to my list of faves, I simply adore this note set. Donna Meagle, eat your heart out.
• Sycamore Street Press // Such a delicate array of type and design. The art prints are just as lovely.
• Ashkahn // Absolutely hilarious! Prepare to giggle hysterically at the cheeky collection. Emphasis on CHEEKy.
• Moglea // When I dream about designing letterpress, I can't help but hope it looks something like Meg Gleason's work.
• Dear Hancock // Ever since I laid eyes on this birthday card, I've been hooked! What's not to love about a gigantic cake?
• Parrott Design Studio // If I was going to send snail mail to Flyboy, I'd definitely send this card.
• The Social Type // I blame my obsession on the gold foil and lovely script.
• Hello! Lucky // If you're looking to add a few "Thanks and Blanks" to your stationery collection, look no further.
• Egg Press // Seriously the sweetest selection of illustrations circulating around the Interwebs. One of each, puh-leez!
• Blackbird Letterpress // The animal diecut cards are precious. You must see for yourself. 
• Anemone Letterpress // I've been known to hoard most of the cards I've purchased from this shop. Oops!
• Emily McDowell // Witty words and colorful illustrations. Browse Emily's work and you'll find yourself snorting.  
• Yes Ma'am // Erica Loesing's designs are so simple and chic. I still need to snag these striped postcards.
• Hello Small World // Such a cheerful selection of note cards. I wish I would have found this one back in February...
• Printerette Press // Their custom designs make my heart skip a beat. Birth announcements, anyone?!
• Ma and Grandy // Another Aussie stationery company that I adore. Remember my ode to the shop here?!
• Hammerpress // I can't get enough of the bright patterns and vintage looking designs. These badges are super cute!
• Mr. Boddington's Studio // I usually end up purchasing Christmas cards from here every year.
• Fig. 2 Design // This is what happens with Kate Spade and Sugar Paper collide. Yeah, it's wicked good.
• Ladyfingers Letterpress // I recently professed my love here. For the record, I'm still just as smitten.
• Ferme à Papier // Cat Sato manages to illustrate small celebrations beautifully. Her collection of paper is brilliant!
• Little Low // In search of local Texas letterpress options, I clicked my heels when I found this one from Austin.
• A. Favorite Design // They have a card for EVERY occasion. I'm not even kidding about this one. 
• The Great Lakes // If your BFF had time to doodle and create cards, I'm sure she'd design something like this.
• La Familia Green // Alright, alright, alright... If this Matthew McConaugHEY card doesn't get you, I don't know what will.
• Lady Pilot Letterpress // Another amusing website that will leave you chuckling at the comical selection.
• Steel Petal Press // Because cursing doesn't count when it's printed in fancy script. That's letterpress logic.

I apologize in advance for the lack of organization to m' list. When I get excited, it's hard for me to categorize my thoughts in any systematic way. Pretty paper seems to have that effect on me. I'm certain I've missed a few of my favorites, but I plan to add to this list as I think of them. We'll consider this a good starting place. Enjoy and happy browsing!

ARTFULLY INSPIRED

When I first laid eyes on this abstract landscape, "Spring River-Midday" by Lauren Adams, I couldn't get over the color palette. Naturally, I found myself gravitating toward shades of green, yellow, and turquoise. Today's post is inspired by Lauren's work.

THE GOODS:

Max by Marc Martin

Colorblock Thread Strands

Upcycled Tropical Blue Velociraptor Dinosaur Planter

Spring River-Midday by Lauren Adams

Mid-Century Modern Arm Chair Lux by GoModRetro

Popsicle Summer Days Ring Holder via Lulu & Georgia

Essie Strut Your Stuff

Leaf Green Throw Blanket via Utility Canvas

Jewelbox Mini Crossbody Bag

Yellow Blocks Desktop Background via Designlovefest

Suede Driving Moc in Wheatgrass via C.Wonder

Have a swell Tuesday, m' dears!