frolic fancy free

Rowan's Nursery.

2012-01-16T14:26:00.000-08:00

Welcome! Here's a little mini tour of Mr. Rowan Noble Frazier's room... we are eagerly anticipating his arrival this week! {nope, it really has NOT hit me.} However, I thought I should get these up on this good old {VERY neglected} blog because it might not ever happen if I don't do this now. :)

Mr. Snuffy, ode to my childhood weenie dog, greets you when you walk in. :)

All I have wanted in a nursery for years were the letters "PLAY"... I hope our children live by this motto alone. (Anthro.)

Ryan built the shelves... HOURS of love went into these with lots of prep work. We love the industrial / masculine feel they bring. The toy chest was my grandparents - we just painted, added castors, & a locker no.

Another shot of the shelving... industrial plumping piping & wood. (Home Depot)

My sweet aunt & cousin got us these shelves... (PB) all I wanted was a book at an arms reach when I rock to him. Of course my love for Rifle Paper needed a spot in the room with the hat prints.

Puppy dog tail hooks - Ikea. Running monkey pic - fab.com.

The elephant was mine growing up, (it just needed polishing & a new rope tail) Pouf & Rug - One Kings Lane, Dresser - repainted from my college days, Glider- Layla Grace, Light - PB.

Vintage flash cards. (in Ikea frame)

I sewed Rowan his own little pennant... every little boy needs a pennant, right? (in Ikea frame)

Little Red Racer car from my sweet mom & swim locker baskets from an industrial supplier online.

Books- all gifted... all I want to do is teach him a love for reading. Whale - Wisteria. Duck - from my best friends from college. Bucket - Restoration.

Old pics of his grandfathers & booties knitted from a best friend from college's mother.

His changing table. (that we hope to make his desk one day) and duh. We HAD to have a bear... {sic em}, so I found this print on etsy. (in Ikea frame)

Blocks - from my NM work Shower... I love them.

I had someone sew his bedding... we loved the dog print & pops of red. I sewed his little sailboat mobile. I started out only knowing I wanted sailboats... I ran into some kinks wanting it to actually move & making them somewhat look like sailboats. ha It took a while to figure out the logistics of, but I ended up happy with the outcome.

Another bedding & mobile shot.

Lots of boy-ish stuffed animals everywhere. & below, airplane - Home Goods.

His little room turned into much more "little boy room" than baby's nursery, but we love it that way. We think it will grow with him. It was definitely our little labor of love... a lot of research, painting, bargain hunting, DIY, sanding, sewing, making, degreasing, scouring, searching, sweating, surfing the net, & waiting... but we both like things that way in our home. Lots of love & eclectic mixes... and not out of a box. :) It's way more fun that way, right? ha.

xoxo. Happy Monday!

yum yum.

2012-01-16T07:48:00.000-08:00

Crunchy Grocer... what a brand with personality! wow. Its a new natural concept food store... its not open yet, but should open in an old school building in Colorado soon. The design was done by Tenfold Creative... you can read more about it at their site.

{via here.}

cupcake.

2012-01-16T07:39:00.000-08:00

Loved this... anatomy of a cupcake. Great styling & use of color.... { for whom it may concern: the fastest way to my heart is through a cupcake. :) }

{from here.}

stickers.

2012-01-04T14:49:00.000-08:00

This is what happens when you give thousands of stickers to thousands of kids... This December, "this surprisingly simple, yet ridiculously amazing installation" was done by artist Yayoi Kusama for the Queensland Gallery of Modern Art.

A blank canvas of sorts was created by painting everything from the floor to ceiling a stark, brilliant white & letting kids go in, uninhibited & without rules, to put stickers where ever their little hearts desired.

I love the beauty that came from the chaos... controlled chaos that was made over time. {Kind of life a metaphor for our lives. ha.}

Happy Wednesday!

posters.

2012-01-04T14:40:00.000-08:00

"Advice to Sink in Slowly" is a project where designers shared wisdom with First-Year students in this awesome poster series... the posters are free to these new students to have as little reminders.

What a beautiful, refreshing concept... passing on wisdom we wish we'd known earlier for others to enjoy at the perfect time. I would love to have some of these ditties, myself, for daily reminders & inspiration.

Read / see more here.

33.

2011-12-06T20:39:00.001-08:00

Trucking along & thanking the Lord for everyday for this little mini.

Dana for W.E.

2011-11-30T08:16:00.000-08:00

Loving the new West Elm Holiday Catalog adorned with Dana Tanamachi's the chalk art... I finally set down to look at it last night, recognized her amazing work immediately, & started drooling. {However, my eye was drawn more to the art & styling, versus the merchandise... not sure if thats a great thing for West Elm, but sure was lovely for my eye. Merch should ALWAYS speak louder than props & styling. Golden Rule No. 1 in Visual 2D & 3D world, eh?}

Nonetheless, her works of art are always beautiful, graphically proportioned, and perfectly detailed... I would love to have her come work some magic on our big kitchen chalkboard one day. :)

gold capped.

2011-11-28T08:52:00.000-08:00

AWESOME tutorial on sayYes!tohoboken. These are a must on my "ever- growing, must-do, extra long, overly- ambitious Craft List. Always love me some metallic.

Happy, Happy Monday... the Holidays are officially here with a vengeance & I love it.

Giveaway over at S&S.

2011-11-17T20:03:00.000-08:00

Sadie and Stella is doing a week of AWESOME giveaways on their blog for their one year birthday! They kindly asked if I wanted to participate... so head on over to their blog to win "a custom event design logo {In digital format} from MF Creative Designs. This logo can pop onto cupcake toppers, koozies, napkins, signs, etc... whatever the winner chooses to do with it, the sky's the limit." I LOVE their blog, sense of style, and great ideas... so to even have MF Creative Designs mentioned on their blog was flattering enough! Thanks you two! Can't wait to partner with the winner! Good Luck!

Word as Image.

2011-11-16T14:41:00.000-08:00

I am a true sucker for clever typography... well, heck, just beautiful typography & lettering in general. (Just one step in our home & this is confirmed with "letters" everywhere. Can't wait to show the nursery! eeekk!) I digress, Ji Lee, former Creative Director at Google, & NOW the Creative Director at Facebook, (whhhaaattt!? who is this man?) wrote Word as Image.

His rules: 1) Create an image out of a word, using only the letters in the word itself. 2) Use only graphic elements in the letters without adding outside parts.

His result is absolutely brilliant, witty, and innovative... this book is definitely moved to the top of my Christmas wish list. Ahem, Santa?!

{Images via here. Love her reviews.}

beyond thrilled...

2011-11-09T09:41:00.000-08:00

Gaultier at the DMA... can-not wait! (Nov. 13, 2011 - Feb. 12, 2012)
The exhibition is called "From the Sidewalk to the Catwalk"... What an absolute treat for the city of Dallas!
Jean Paul Gaultier's work is nothing short of exquisite... I can't wait to see his detailed works of art up close & personal.
Happy Hump Day!

Thursday.

2011-10-27T08:01:00.000-07:00

First, I can't get enough of Coldplay's new album... really, they are back in their groove. It is on constant replay. Go buy it. So great.

Second, I saw this tear sheet, "Decorating Mantras to Live By," on Marta Writes, and LOVE & agree with it all. I especially enjoyed, "Honoring the acts of daily living. If its a habit, make it beautiful..." The thought of making everyday acts, chores, habits, & surroundings just as beautiful as you would for company, an event, a party, or a holiday has always enticed & intrigued me. I wish I could say I do this more.... finding a balance is definitely the key, though & not having the focus be ON your possessions and materials, but rather enjoying them & appreciating them fully. Using your china & nice serving pieces for Kraft mac & cheese, pulling out fancy wine & cheese just to enjoy on a Tuesday night, popping over a "thinking of you" letter on your linen, monogrammed stationary to a friend just because, and burning your "expensive" candles while watching Modern Family all fall in this category for me.

How can you not also love, "Life should sparkle, every house needs bling." Little ole me over here & my metallic obsession can definitely back this thought up. Love me some sparkling decor... I think I love it because it adds a pop while still staying neutral. Neutrals, greys, golds, & silvers are loved a bit too much over at the Frazier household.

Here's to living your Thursday beautifully. :) Again, Coldplay should help with that.

oh baby.

2011-10-25T07:59:00.000-07:00

First off, in the most important news - CREWCUTS launched a baby line!! (envision me grinning ear to ear.) Check it out here. I die. really. I believe this apparel might be up there with Janie & Jack, for me now. My love for The Crew continues. (Sorry, I really should just start tallying my J.Crew/ Jenna posts & keep them to a minimum, but this was just TOO GOOD.)

{images from here, here, here, & here.}

These whimsical wallcovering options are just some of my favs & I have had them flagged for quite some time... we contemplated incorporating them into the nursery, however, with not knowing our longevity at this home & investing in something that we might not get to enjoy very long, would be a crying shame. So, instead, we opted for the dog silhouette fabric, "Man's Best Friend" in Cinnamon by John Lewis. It pulls in our creme, greys, & pops of red, still has some whimsy, and the scale still feels light & airy enough to not feel too busy. It is only being used in a few subtle spots so as not to get to "themey" but I am in love with it... plus, it is an ode to our sweet Senga.

Yes, we love Senga that much, she makes the nursery, and all our pregger pics. :) We have tried to take these every few weeks so we will have a series that look like these at the end. Yes, I finally posted this after many requests... we'll see if this actually happens again. ha Can't wait to meet our little mini man.

Happy Tuesday, but wishing I was outside enjoying this amazing weather!

monday musings.

2011-10-10T15:02:00.000-07:00

See that beautiful Kate Spade wall above... how great would this application be in a powder bath one day? Its just Dura-Lar film cut & applied in strips. I have this filed away for the non-existent said powder bath one day... In my book, Metallic + Stripes = perfection. (via here.)

I REALLY want to replicate this photo shoot one day, I absolutely LOVE it... the coloring & texture of the images are beautiful. I love it so much I think I'll just straight up copy it... maybe next fall with mini Frazier in the world? Does it help I have her shirt & boots... its a start. :) (source unknown.)

Check out this DIY wreath by Madiganmade... so simple & chic & CHEAP. Perfect for fall or the Holidays... its just gold thumbtacks. I wish I thought of it. Brilliant, people, just brilliant.

Confession: I STILL love MK & Ash... they just do what they feel & rock what they want. I know I know... most people are over them, but I still can't get enough. I loved stumbling across some of these paparazzi shots of them... they always seem to be in their own world.

(via here.)

I look at this Kravet Bansuri Ikat fabric pretty much all the time & still keep coming back to it... any color wave is awesome. I want it for some project... some day; Maybe for the Mini's nursery... I'll work on that & get back with you. I know, I know, I am trying to get away from my love of greys & neutrals... I'll stop after this?

I made my first Teddy's Apple cake last week of the season... the one from the New York Times in 1973. It is still requested for re-print to this day... it is that. good. people. I typically make it a few times each fall with Honey crisp apples (an obsession)... it is perfect for breakfast, as well as dessert. (Try a brown sugar glaze on it.) I made it with this Deen Brother's Lasagna Soup, and it did not disappoint, either.

Happy Happy Fall & Happy start to the week!

gasp -worthy.

2011-09-30T09:19:00.000-07:00

I audibly gasped out loud when I saw this sweater... soft metallic gold leather elbow patches & grey neutral cashmere... this sweater is right up my alley. {however, its absurd price is not.} I am on a mission already to figure out how to make this myself... I really want it that bad.

On another note, this lantern festival is pretty "gasp-worthy" as well... I would love to attend one of these in person. {one can dream, right?} Can you imagine sitting on a blanket in the grass with a glass of wine staring up at this... sigh. Maybe I would be wearing the aforementioned sweater. ha.

Happy Weekend! More nursery working is on the docket this weekend... I was already born with an overly obsessed impulse to nest & now it is at an embarrassing all time high. really. Just ask my mother how many times my room changed throughout my life... now, with a babe on the way, it is truly scary. :)

First Official Day of Fall!

2011-09-23T07:35:00.000-07:00

Eureka! I have found the perfect banana bread... finally. I know I have shared my harrowing quest for the perfect recipe & have succeeded with no avail until last night. Tyler Florence's Banana Bread is PERFECTION. I made some homemade honey-butter (3/4 stick melted salted butter / to half parts honey) and schmeared it over a large, thick slice this morning for breakfast next to my first Pumpkin Spice latte of the season... oh, welcome fall & all you have to bring!

Happy First day of Fall! We'll be decorating the house for fall & nesting in the nursery this weekend & I could not be more excited! Date night at La Duni tonight & making these Pumpkin Gingerbread waffles to kick of the fall weekend tomorrow morning...

Happy Happy Friday!

Art Walk.

2011-09-16T11:36:00.000-07:00

Downtown Dallas had a little Art Walk on Main Street today... I absolutely love the concept, thought process, & effort behind it. People just rented out the metered parking spaces, set up booths & got everyone out of their offices/ building for just a bit to enjoy the weather. Such a nice change of pace.

There was live music to be heard, small flower/ succulent gardens, a miniature recycled library to "take & share" from, & small art installations to see. Many of the booths passed out literature on their cause or focused on recycling efforts for the city. They had a Hatch Chile booth where you watched the chilies being grilled, steam bathed, and peeled.... and oh it smelled heavenly. I feel like I learned a little bit about the variety, as well. The company funding this was passing various typed of chilies to try, prepared in different ways. {Ahem, the panko battered, deep fried, bacon & melted cheese topped Chile was my fav... no surprise there.}

It was a fun little getaway from the day on our lunch break... yummy pizza for lunch, art browsing, and hatch chilies for dessert. :) Now I'm ready for the weekend.

Happiest of Fridays! Go check it out this weekend if you get a chance & live in Dallas... I was not able to find information online about it, but maybe you'll have better luck!

2011-09-13T13:20:00.000-07:00

Love this...

{via here.}

I heart JL.

2011-09-08T13:21:00.000-07:00

I know, I post about Jenna ALL the time... but how can you not get enough of her? She was just featured in UK Vogue... and it proves, yet again, that her taste & styling is. always. absolutely. utterly. impeccable.

{images from here. via here. }

MZ Wallace.

2011-09-08T12:43:00.000-07:00

I am here to share with you my love for the company of MZ Wallace. Her bags have been on my forever wish list for over 4 years now... I just keep going back to them. The craftsmanship is amazing and the attention to detail, outstanding. All their bags are lined with a satin, bright, fun pop of color so you can actually see what you are digging for, the leather is trimmed in red, & the gold hardware is inset in the coordinating red satin. The celebs seem to be catching on to the trend now because my little eye has spied them in People and Us as of late... I can spot these puppies anywhere.

My only issue is trying to find a purposeful excuse to "need" one. Enter diaper bag search... I thought I had it figured out until I decided to once again just drool over their webpage last week just for fun and low & behold THE "Kate" bag entered my field of vision. (see last image) {hear the choir singing?} An MZ Wallace Diaper bag, perfect in every way, shape & form... I am in love. Its already been forwarded to the hubs for perusal, FYI purposes, as well as approval since it might don his shoulder every now & then. :)

This post is solely dedicated to the purpose of doting on MZ Wallace... check them out. They are one of those few & far between quality companies that you know when you buy their product, it will stand the test of time... they are also a socially conscious company which makes you want to support them even more. They have boutiques in New York, however, you can find them now out at your local Nordstrom. (I know, after this, you will never hear me plug Nordstrom, again... I will stay true to the red, white & NM.}

Happy perusal & happy Friday's eve!

snips & snails.

2011-08-22T13:35:00.000-07:00

We will be seeing lots blue in our future... it was fun times at the Frazier household this weekend. We feel so very blessed.

HP wisdom.

2011-08-10T14:13:00.000-07:00

Oh Dumbledore, I couldn't agree more...

escape.

2011-08-10T13:48:00.000-07:00

Now this takes my treehouse (& here. & here. &here. & here) obsession to a whole other, out of this world level. I have no doubt our little mini will have a little tree escape one day... and I truly fear that I might take it over! I thought this undertaking above was such a fun little getaway from the daily... Happy Happy Hump day!

{via here.}

craving fall.

2011-07-28T09:11:00.000-07:00

If you live in Dallas, you no doubt know we are on our 27th consecutive day of the temperature being over 100 degrees. However, while I refuse to be one of those people who complain about this... (Hello, if you live in Texas, you knew it would be this way.) So instead, I have chosen to focus on the upcoming, incredible season that is FALL.

After purging & organizing my tear sheet cook book last night... I a) realized I have an over abundance of pumpkin recipes { however, you can never have enough} and b) I am so incredibly ready for the aforementioned pumpkin breads, chilis, & soups that come along with all things fall.

Then I was hit with Madewell's Fall Lookbook & I really can't get enough... from the layering & color combos, to the boots & belts. O man, my obsession with boots, I have no doubt, will never die. I will probably be a grandmother rockin' them (no pun intended) in the nursing home. I should move to Cali where boots year- around are acceptable.

What are y'all doing to beat the heat people? Popsicles sure are helping out, too. :)

the 90's.

2011-07-21T13:24:00.000-07:00

Confession: I love the blog, Children of the 90's. It is my guilty pleasure... really, go check it out. If you are anywhere remotely near my age, you will be hooked. Hello, they talk about lunchables, slap-bracelets, Lisa Frank, The Beets on Doug, Popples, Puffalumps, heads up- seven up, Littlest Pet Shop & N*sync. You know you are truly a child of the 90's when you recognize & feel severe nostalgia at EVERY. SINGLE post. {sigh.}

Side note: See the video? I saved up all my money for a Puppy Surprise. While this toy is a bit disturbing now... (right?) I lucked out & got 5 puppies!! I hit the jackpot. (however, one was a boy "runt?" really? they made runts. creepy.)

On that note, I am going to let you little 90's children in on a pretty tubular secret... this little secret quite possibly might revolutionize the rest of your summer. Or your life, for that matter:

Go to Pandora & find "Summer Hits of the 90's." I know... I know. I died right there in my seat on the train when I first heard it... someone had to resuscitate me.

Natalie Imbrulia, Alanis, LFO, Lit, Eagle Eye Cherry, Green Day & TLC. Need I say more?

Happy Friday's Eve & Happy 90's beboppin'!

the greatness that is the s'more.

2011-07-15T08:40:00.001-07:00

There is no denying that I LOVE, adore, obsess over, indulge & truly, fully & whole heartedly appreciate that perfect concoction that is the s'more. It is literally my all-time favorite dessert. When I was little, there used to be pre-made microwaveable s'mores that you popped in the microwave & I would eat one almost everyday after school. {then they sadly discontinued them?}

We make "lazy man s'mores" at the Frazier casa VERY frequently... (animal or graham crackers, chocolate chips, butterscotch chips & marsh mellows poured ALL OVER a toaster oven pan) Try it... not quite as satisfying as over a fire, but it suffices the craving on a weeknight. If you get a chance & live in Dallas, Tillman's Roadhouse has some awesome s'mores for dessert with your own little burner.

Ohdeedoh posted a link for 5 creative s'more recipes that I am dying to try & I also found a tutorial on there for how to make a mini s'mores grill. How cute would this be for a party? A whole "s'moregesporg" of different fillings laid out on a table... it might just have to be the theme for my 30th.

On another random note, while you make these... download & listen to Chris Brown's "Beautiful People." (I know, I should not endorse him.) I have it on constant repeat... LOVE. You cannot help but dance along. Literally, we were just be- bopping to it in my office.

Happy Happy Friday & take some time to indulge in the greatness that is the s'more & "Beautiful People" this weekend.

PS - THANK YOU for all your kind comments, emails, texts, & calls with the news on Mini Frazier. We are extremely excited.

Here's hoping...

2011-07-14T15:08:00.000-07:00

{via Vogue.}

SJP always does it well & does it right... although, I highly, no positively, doubt her daily life looks like that with little people running around the house. Maybe I should try vacuuming in stilettos as a start... Here's hoping I can have this much style & grace as when we have our little mini on January 20th, 2012. :)

Happy Friday's eve!

random musings.

2011-07-07T11:02:00.000-07:00

I am going to revamp our built- in shelves this weekend. {image via here.} Still debating on paint vs. wallpaper... however, there needs to be a whole lot a movin' & shakin' going on.

I found these links at Centsational Girl:

22 Ways to Arrange Your Shelves at Real Simple.

Steps for Styling a Bookcase at House Beautiful.

How to Style a Bookcase Like an Interior Designer by Simplified Bee.

Tips for Decorating Shelves or Bookcases at HGTV

I have to say, I have never been a tattoo girl, but if I was... these would definitely be right up my alley. So small & feminine. {image via here.}

I put a mini hammock in our crepe myrtle tree... when I say mini, I mean mini hammock. I can only sit on it... however, me & my Nook love our little "nook" in the tree & the breeze. {PS - Do any of you still read on your e-reader after getting an iPad? I can't seem to stop reading on it. I love the e-ink for my rusty ol' eyes.}

I have been loving old tin cans as vases lately... I cleaned out a bright, festive Italian crushed- tomato can ... the colors make me so happy & the sensibilty seems to scream "summer" to me. {image via here.}

This image makes me so happy, as well... mini salt & paper shakers in itsy- bitsy paper bags = genius. This screams summer party to me, as well. {image via here.}

I found this awesomely creative, delicious looking, drool inducing blog - Food Gawker. She finds a way to make anything & everything... my kinda girl. Check it out & be prepared to get hungry.

Awesome tutorial on fabric lanterns... I love how light and airy they are. Easy- peasy & super- de duper cute. These were added to the DIY list immediately {definite summer party material, as well.}

The Frazier's goal over the next month is to reorganize & conquer the garage... of course Annie Selke's garage is gorgeous. {image via here.} I mean, when when are the words "gorgeous" & "garage" ever used in the same sentence? Hey, a girl can dream, right? errrrrrr...

Vizslas are apparently the new cool thing... J.Crew is toting them & I have been spying them everywhere. The Fraziers absolutely, 100%, wholeheartedly agree & are not surprised at this new trend.. :) We love our Senga.

Don't worry, this image is just perfectly polish Kate Middleton... with her amazing hair & stunning dress. It's kind of a problem - I cannot get enough of her. {image via here.}

Yes, lots of random musings... Oh happy day!

mfcd.

2011-07-07T10:59:00.000-07:00

Another reason this little blog has suffered as of late... MF Creative Designs. There are about 8 new projects posted if you go to the site check it out! I have LOTS more to post over the next few weeks, but its a sampling of where my little head, heart, & hands have been at. Enjoy!

summer vacays.

2011-06-15T14:19:00.000-07:00

I / We just got back from two amazing vacations... hence my lack of posting. {This month's goal is to post more on this little sit o' mine.}

I first went to Vail with 6 of my best friends/roomates from college. We had a blast - lots of time chatting, EATING, & playing. I feel so blessed to still feel close to them even though we only get

to see each other once a year on our annual Lodge Reunion. They are special, dear people to me... they have seen me through lots of highs & lows and we still pick up right where we left off.

We then went to Hawks Cay in the Florida Keys with 3 other dear couple friends over the 4th of July. This trip was pure relaxation... plus some snorkeling, frolic-ing with the dolphins & an awesome firework show. Its such a treat to have couple friends that we both can equally say get along with both parts. Needless to say, I am still slowly creeping back into the daily grind.

I have felt such a sense of gratitude for my family & friends lately... so supported, loved, & known. I know the Lord places people here specifically in our lives to show us different, unique pieces of Him & His character... and it is fun recognizing those traits in my loved ones & appreciating them fully... sometimes if only over dinner, and others on awesome, extended vacations.

Happy Friday's eve!

{top photo courtesy of L.S.}

fresh floral.

2011-06-06T08:32:00.000-07:00

My sweet mother cut all these hydrangeas out of her backyard for me... she has them growing in abundance just like Ms. Martha Stewart does. Yes... I know, quite jealous.

They have been trucking along for almost two weeks now & still look great... it is amazing what fresh floral will do for your mood & your space. I could get very used to this.

Thanks mamasita! Happy Happy Monday!

2011-05-23T11:07:00.000-07:00

We spur the moment popped over to Samantha's Garage Sale this past Saturday. We got there later on in the morning & the majority of the goods were picked over... but after only spending $4.00, we scored two rolls of wall paper, a silver deer head bowl, & a chic little graphic bud vase. Not bad huh? O boy, does this girl here love a great deal & digging for the goods... typically estate sales are my venue of choice, however, this garage was too enticing to pass up!

Anyone score any great deals lately? It really is such a great high.

Mimi's Manor.

2011-05-23T08:42:00.000-07:00

A few weekends ago, we loaded up the whip with an excited Senga, some charcoal, fully packed coolers and our boots & headed out to East Texas to my Mimi's Manor. Mimi's Manor is aptly named after my grandmother & owned by my grandpa, my dad, & his three brothers. It really was the greatest time to get away, play horseshoes, eat a lot, shoot some guns, ride some four-wheelers, go on walks, & just lounge. There is just something about getting away without the laundry sitting there, waiting to be folded, or the backyard, staring at you, needing to be tended to that you can't replace.

Sigh... looking at these pictures on this rainy, muggy day, is not helping the Monday Blues.

Hey, we work hard to play hard, right?

Bees.

2011-05-12T11:23:00.000-07:00

I can't believe I am blogging about this... maybe its my recent apethetic attitude towards technology (ie. my major absence from the blogging world, my forgetfulness to bring my cell phone along with almost daily, the fed-up, "over-it" deactivation of my Twitter account (& almost facebook), and my new attemped efforts at recycling) OR maybe its because of these little sets of new life in our front yard & spending time with buddies in nature last weekend at my family's place. (more to come on that.)

ABOVE: One of THREE of the new little sets of baby ducklings in our front yard. I love this time of year at our home... this particular photograph is from me getting out of my car in front to snap a pic & stopping traffic to safely let them cross.

I digress... however, I read this article & the combination of my aforementioned mentality towards technology & our naivety as a society left me slightly disturbed & saddened. The human race WILL NOT survive without bees... I don't know the solution, but awareness is the first step, correct? Its a quick, great read with FINALLY an answer to "Where are all the bees going?"

Happy Thursday & glad to be back. :)

** Thank you to those sweet readers who have questioned my absence, I'm alive... just soaking up other aspects of life, working 'juiging' up our home & moreover, being swamped with my day job & night job, as well. (which has yet to majorly be updated.) {sigh} I'll get there. one day. :)

random musings monday.

2011-04-18T12:35:00.000-07:00

We got back from a delightful weekend spending time with best friends in Houston... it consisted of some golfing for the men, manis/pedis & time with celeb mags & guac by the pool for the ladies & lots yummy food. Not only did our gracious host make us delicious treats, but we also indulged in mimosas & breakfast at Tiny Boxwoods. { so cute & delish.} It was a much needed weekend away & time with these individuals never disappoints & always hit the spot.

I'm still in my purging & organizing state... once you start, you really cannot stop. These images above only fueled the fire... I am on a mission to get rid of the clutter & that which I absolutely do not love. Ry & I are not sentimental "savers," but "repourposing savers." If I think I can remake something out of it or reuse it one day down the road, I'll keep it. Why DIY a piece, when you never loved the shape, concept, etc to begin with? I'm working on it people. {images via lgn.}

I have a sick, mad, obsession with all things Elizabeth & James... I tend to gravitate towards almost every piece, wherever I go. This is a problem... I really must expand from my love for neutrals. Their Fall 2011 is to. die. for.

A few new posts up at MF Creative Designs.... plus a new logo for my little side venture.

I have the goods... I just need to make them. P-Dub's Crash Hot Potatoes look absolutely divine and are on the menu for this week. You really can't go wrong with anything Rosemary... (esp when it grows in massive bushes in your backyard. I can't keep up.)

I can't believe I haven't blogged about these little gems, yet... I took this pic before I hung these beautiful pieces & was waiting to take an after shot of them in our home, however, I am a procrastinator & didn't want to wait holding out on sharing her work anymore. Casey & I traded for Aiden's Party & I definitely ended up on the winning side of that deal. She is a sweet mama & talented artist & I was incredibly honored she would even ask me to help.... it was a great excuse to catch up, too. Go check out her stuff... you'll love it.

And finally, I'll end with this unbelievable picture of Rachel McAdams. Dang, I love old Hollywood glamor. {image source unknown}

Happy Windy, Blustery Monday.

Happy Anniversary to us.

2011-04-11T20:04:00.000-07:00

We have been searching for a buffet for our dining room FOREVER, & we finally stumbled across the perfect one {for us} without even meaning to. (We had been using an old painted Ikea shelf to suit the purpose for a while.) Ry and I aren't too into the matchy-matchy, so we pulled from the undertones & picked a completely different wood & hue. I love that we typically don't get each other gifts for our anni & Christmas, and opt to invest in a home purchase for years to come. We are in love... to each other & with this piece. :)

Can't get enough of...

2011-04-11T10:42:00.000-07:00

I can't get enough of this gown & I keep staring... Christian Dior's take on "something blue." Elegantly perfect & simply stunning. {via here.}

Can't get enough of the messy side braid... I wore them here & there last summer, but this year, call me lazy, but I have been rocking them already probably way too much... they are just too easy breezy to pass up. {via here.}

I can't get enough of Pinterest... It's a virtual pinning & tagging system for basically all images that you love... I am just getting started, but it is a beautiful, crazy, lovely world of fun.

Can't get enough of the Kate & her soon-to-princess{ness.} {18 days!}I keep looking at the Kate Middleton Look Book... every paparazzi shot of her ALL in one location? Yes, please.

Finally, I. can't. get. enough. of. Lindt's Sea Salt Dark Chocolate Bar. Its a new, very dangerous, obsession. So great paired with a glass of cab & smoked Gouda. I literally can't stop... and I am a bona fide vanilla girl all the way, so thats saying a lot.

Happy Monday... hopefully one of these new ditties will get you through the day.

I eat donuts, man.

2011-04-08T11:33:00.000-07:00

I really don't think I could love this video more... Stella ALWAYS hits it right on the head. always. How great when kids are actually kids? She made this shoot so incredibly natural & it makes me love her even more.
Hip Hip Hipity Happy Friday people! Go eat some donuts.

t-r-o-u-b-l-e spells trouble.

2011-04-05T08:49:00.000-07:00

BIG Uh Oh... I am in MAJOR TROUBLE. I found J. Crews (un)official blog. I warn you... pack a lunch & bring your coffee... you'll be drooling for hours.

Oh & please do enjoy... but, I have no doubt you will.

Happy (just got Happier) Tuesday!

the older, the better.

2011-03-30T07:15:00.000-07:00

My appreciation for old, well established companies has grown tremendously over the past couple of years. I work for a company that is over 100 years old & I truly recognize how a company with a long history is something that is to be revered & taken seriously, especially now a days... there is a reason they have been around so long. I absolutely believe there is a direct correlation with history to quality.

I have now had my Frye boots for almost 4 years, {top images} and they seriously just get better with age. {Frye has been around since 1863.}I take them in to get cleaned up & re-soled at the end of the winter season & it keeps them truckin along beautifully. I spoke with a woman a month or two ago with similar boots on & she said she has had her Frye boots for 30 years now! wow. I love to think that I'll have these boots moving my kids into college one day. I work the windows in them, I dress them up & down, I play in them, & I take them outdoors. They are quality.

I just recently purchased these Trenton rainboots on sale in matte grey. I legitimately NEEDed rainboots for puddles/rain to & from work at the train station & didn't want Hunter boots that I saw everywhere. My old ones were on their last leg & so, I stumbled upon Trenton... they are awesome & have been around since 1891. wow, again. I am impressed with their quality, so far, & love that they are a bit different. Check them out... you can read about their history here.

There is no denying that I have an obsession with boots. It is a problem. However, I think they are quite possibly my favorite thing to aquire & indulge in. Cheers! :)

Happy Happy Wednesday, halfway there people. :)

Highs & Lows.

2011-03-29T11:45:00.000-07:00

I wanted to share with you one of my favorite sites: Style at Home's Highs & Lows.

I always have a tough time telling the difference between most of the rooms... one is designed with mainly designer, top dollar goods & the other on a budget. Its pretty amazing what they come up with & how beautiful things can be on a budget. If you get a chance, check them out. Enjoy!

March 29th.

2011-03-29T08:21:00.000-07:00

March 29th is always a special day at the Frazier Casa... Today I married my best friend 3 years ago & Senga, our four-legged child, was born & turns 2 years old!

This past weekend, we celebrated with breakfast at Odd Fellows {I highly recommend the gingerbread pancakes} & tonight, we are making guacamole & P-Dub's Dr. Pepper Pulled Pork Tacos. Mmmm Mmmm, I'll let you know how they turn out... But, with Pork, Adobe Chipotles, Dr. Pepper & brown sugar, how can you go wrong?

::: Hap Hap Happy Day! :::

latest work links

2011-03-28T13:23:00.000-07:00

Check out new fun posts {samplings above} at MF Creative Designs... I'm staying busy & trucking along which is always fun!

Newest:

::: More detailed pics on the slumber party.

::: A fun link to some cutie little girls headband site that launched {Bonjour Mae Mae}

::: Party collateral pictures of work I did for Momma Casey's zoo birthday party for Aiden {The party was also featured on the uber cute blog P is for Party which was fun!}

::: Snap Candy Photography's newest logo!

Happy Monday! Its always nice to start the week off with a fresh start!

Historically Hardcore.

2011-03-22T11:11:00.000-07:00

I think one of my favorite things to see is when an older, well- known, very serious establishment throws a curve ball with clever, witty and relevant advertising... even the design & layout is fresh & clean.

Sadly, these ads, however, are fake and were done by an art student & a copy writer, Jenny Burrows & Matt Kappler, posing current pop icons against historical figures. The Smithsonian actually requested to have them removed. What? {see here.}

While I swim in the world of retail design, my heart lies with my advertising / marketing major that wants to scream -"Smithsonian, get on board! Free and fresh marketing right in your face!"

Nonetheless... these posters did make me chuckle a bit. "Historically Hardcore." genius.

mf logo.

2011-03-18T08:34:00.000-07:00

This was a fun treat to see! Ryan and I were checking out a furniture store last night, and in the same shopping center was The Posh Petunia! It opened up recently in Plano & the sign is an MF Creative Design custom logo. The store is a upscale children's clothing boutique... so if you have little ones, you'll have to check it out at Lakeside Market in Plano. {again, please excuse the quality of my iphone pics.} Happy Happy Friday!

Spring Cleaning

2011-03-16T14:00:00.000-07:00

Spring is officially here and I could not be more possibly thrilled. While most may think it neurotic, one of my favorite things about this season is cleaning. I am actually one of those crazy, weird people that thoroughly enjoys cleaning, organizing, and purging. {For those of you in the Dallas area that are wanting to rid yourself of some unwanted clutter... keep this sale & great cause in mind.}

I'm not officially starting till this weekend, but all the linen drapes are down and being washed, and all the bedding at the dry cleaners. It is the greatest feeling in the world & I am so looking forward to getting after it this weekend. I don't know if it is the feeling of a fresh start & welcoming in the new season... or the fact that you get to take care of the possessions you have been blessed with.... or the fact that you get to be at home, enjoying your space, with the windows open & the smell of lemon pledge in the air.... but, to me, it is wonderful.

Any checklist, how to, or tip you need? I love this source. and this one.

My best friend is going to be the magic erasure this weekend and I could not be more thrilled! Happy Wednesday!

2011-03-14T08:13:00.000-07:00

Oh Kate, this is utterly and fantastically perfect. I can't get enough.

ABC Home

2011-03-12T19:48:00.001-08:00

Please excuse the horrible photo quality... I have never claimed to be good at takings pics. Ever. :)
We went to ABC Home when we were in New York this past November... One of my coworkers told me we would love it and that we had to carve out time for a visit. So, while it was a tad out of the way since we were planning on being in Brooklyn for the day, we got up early, trained it to the Flatiron district & made it our first stop... And boy it was so worth the trip. Everything is impeccably editorially styled. So much so that you don't even know where to begin looking. There is so much eye candy and beautiful merchandise that you literally have to wipe the drool of your chin as you meander through all the EIGHT floors of the store.
The furniture there can be found in every style and material imaginable and all of the lighting is breathtaking. The vendors they represent will make you swoon and ohhh, the stacks and stacks of dishes... All amazing. From ceiling treatments and fabrics to the flooring choices and hardware bins... the textures, colors, and space are unbelievable and well, well worth a visit next time you are in NYC. Enjoy!

I love you, blogs, & coffee.

2011-03-10T09:58:00.000-08:00

See that cutie little print up there in our kitchen... it is designed by Jen of madebygirl. She had a fun little giveaway last December & I won! I finally got around to framing & hanging it... it is perfect for our little kitchen & blog surfing with coffee & pancakes on a Saturday morning. Pancakes on the weekends have become a bit of a habit as of late. Thank you Jen!

{Also to note, beautiful tulips from my thoughtful bff Linnie & tangerines, from another bff, Larsen who eats them religiously & now has me hooked. She's a pretty phenomenal photographer, check her out if you get a chance. On that note, if you need some interior expertise for your home, Lin is pretty darn great at that, as well.}

slumber p.

2011-03-01T14:49:00.000-08:00

This past Friday, my besties came over for a girlie slumber party... we cooked pizza & drank champagne & chatted and basically were just all around girls. I had a blast decorating & making things for it {above is the pillow invite}... more details to come, but I recommend any group of girls do it. You can't go wrong with sitting & chatting, right?

A few randoms...

2011-03-01T14:00:00.000-08:00

I have been loving interior doors painted black... I think they add such drama, while still staying classic. They pair so well with hardwood floors and crisp, white trim. Our home right now, has low, ranch style ceilings so I think black doors would close in our space... but someday, with higher ceilings, trying this will be a must!

I have been researching calligraphy classes in Dallas for the past couple of weeks... I specifically want a class that teaches copperplate calligraphy. Then, of course, I saw Jordan's classes she offers at her studio... {perfect!} ... oh wait, in San Fransisco. Anyone want to take a trip? Or, more specifically, anyone know of any great calligraphy classes in the Big D area?

Cannot get over this pic of Gwen & Kingston at the L.A.M.B. finale... I spied it on The Cut, {NY Mag's Daily Fashion section} & couldn't help but smile. "Oh Gweny Gwen Gwen."

LOVE this 3.1 Phillip Lim's big bow dress... I keep seeing large bows tied at the collar of a lot of the garments on the runway & love it. So fun & feminine. I wear my grandmother's passed down cashmere camel coat ALL the time, its the warmest piece I have... I would love to add a detail like this to it somehow. hmmm...

Adele's new CD has been rockin my world, more specifically my past weekend. She was on constant repeat & I can. not. get. enough.

::: More random thoughts :::

::: I am learning its pretty hard to mess up a pasta dish & pretty easy to concoct any combination you want. Last night I made angel hair with sun-dried tomatoes, toasted almonds, goat cheese, minced garlic, basil, pepper, oregano, oil and salt... random, but very de-lish.

::: MF Creative Designs is such a fun little side endeavor... however, with a full- time regular day job, I get so frustrated that I don't devote anytime to branding or marketing or even designing for pleasure. Anyone else with little part time side businesses feel this way? I LOVE the extra business, I just feel like I can't keep up or ever focus on it. I am working on a balance... but then that balance takes away from the balance of time spent with friends, hubs, etc... its a sick cycle. I'm trying to sort it out, but thankful for the crazy fun that it brings.

::: With Style & Grace is a new favorite blog of mine... beautiful food images, & great, fresh healthy recipes. Check it out.

Happy Tuesday!

lovely.

2011-02-16T13:35:00.000-08:00

image via the satorialist.

She is simply stunning. From her hair & her stacks of bangles, to her effortless skirt & posture.

"Woman is fine for her own satisfaction alone. No man will admire her the more, no woman will like her the better for it. Neatness & fashion are enough for the former, and a something of shabbiness or impropriety will be the most endearing to the later. " - Jane Austen, Northanger Abbey

iphone photo round-up.

2011-02-16T09:49:00.000-08:00

Dude Sweet Chocolate... really cute chocolate shop in the Bishop Arts District. While I am not a huge fan of dark chocolate, their packaging & signage was superb.

I can admit that I am absolutely horrible at cake decorating... but nonetheless, I attempted a Super Bowl cake... gotta support the hubs' absolute favorite "sports games." {Modern Family, anyone? anyone?}

Lattice Panel inlaid at a restaurant in Scottsdale. While I do love the concept, the irony is that we used this lattice company at work for an installation & the vendor flippantly mentioned they just did a ceiling in a restaurant, but never mentioned the location. You would have thought I just saw George & Laura {ie. freaked out} when I stumbled across his work randomly. Such a fun treat to see our collateral, elsewhere... esp. from such a small, unique, "undiscovered" vendor.

Two of my besties over for wine, apps, and convo... 5 hours later & much cheese & chocolate, we still didn't cover it all, we never do. {Right, SMS?}

My attempt at the whoopie pies this weekend... I have to say, they were a bit underwhelming & took a lot of time {and dishes} to create. I am a fan of the "simplier & less messy," the better. They were fun to try though.

A restaurant in Scottsdale we loved, Culinary Dropout. It had such a cool atmosphere with live acoustic music, creative menu options & unique presentation...soft pretzel bites to dip in cheese fondue, bread pudding, pasta, baby carafes for the wine & paper bags for your beer. loved.

Pazookie at Oregano's, they are original creator of Pazookie. I know, I know everyone loves it now and while I know it is everywhere now, I do give the credit to my Zona girls for introducing it to me sophomore year of college...making it in our little oven at UP. It was fun to go to the place that I had heard about almost 8 years ago now.

Snow day & a wonderful morning of sleeping in & making homemade pumpkin waffles & bacon. If you know me, anything pumpkin tops the list & makes the day.

At Mimi's Manor for Christmas in Groveton... loved this little stack of firewood.

Ahhh, thank you for letting me dump my iPhone purge on you. Smart Phone photos are never the greatest, but they do capture the impromptu details, right?

Happy hump day!

dwi

2011-02-15T11:54:00.001-08:00

I know this is a stray from my typical posts, but I was too moved to not share. Three little letter can change you or someone else's life forever.

Do you text while driving?

v-day.

2011-02-11T08:01:00.000-08:00

I have had my eye on these two lovely concoctions over the past month. I can't stop thinking about this heart cake, & it is actually relatively easy to make. How cute would that be for a bride & groom to cut into on their wedding day? Oh, and the whoopie pies, don't get me started, don't they look amazing? We might need to attempt to recreate these, Limm. :)

{see link for sources & tutorials.}

PS - These little ditties will be best enjoyed while watching Friday Night Lights...and Tim Riggins. ha need I say more?

inspiration boards & creativity.

2011-02-07T11:32:00.000-08:00

The above is the wall in my office at work... very professional, huh? ha. It is pretty overwhelming & has no sense of organization or form, however it keeps me truckin' here 9 hours a day. It literally takes up the whole wall & is quite messy, but I use it daily & love it.

I think that I have shared with you my love for tear sheets. They truly are an obsession of mine- I feel like I am constantly tearing & filing. Sitting on the couch purging through magazines is at the tip- top of my list. Not only do I do it to save beautiful images for inspiration & ideas, but I also just don't have the space for stacks & stacks of magazines around the house. {However, No tearing allowed in W & This Old House.}

Right now, at Casa Frazier, I am in the process of working on & tweaking the office / craft room. I want to make it useful & purposeful for us both, but also a space that is still inspirational & fosters creativity. I have up two large bulletin boards & am gradually adding at home & trying to hone down what really inspires me.

I love that the Lord gives us all creativity in one avenue or another, whether it be in the kitchen, on the computer, with your hands, on paper, solving problems, voicing thoughts, writing stories, or around the house... He is the ultimate creator & I love that he manifested creativity in all of us. I think everyone is always on a quest to either find out where that creativity lies, hone it down to a particular skill, or perfect the creativity they have already discovered.

"The torpid artist seeks Inspiration at any cost, by virtue or by vice, by friend or by fiend, by prayer or by wine." - Ralph Waldo Emerson

What inspires you? What drives you to want to create, to play, to be your best, to seek out something new? I think people miss that creativity can look different in everyone... God gave us all the ability to be creative in one way or another... it just takes finding it.

Random thoughts on a Tuesday? Have a Happy day!

catch-all.

2011-01-28T08:44:00.000-08:00

I would LOVE one of these for catching all our spare keys... so clever & chic. I am adding it to the list.

{ via here. }

new blog love.

2011-01-27T13:43:00.000-08:00

How amazing & beautiful is this art barn? Absolutely fantastic... it's an amazing barn used solely to create & play & dream & make. {sigh.} It's owned by one of my new favorite blogger's, who writes Fern & Feather. You will love her ideas & taste level. I promise.

Also, why you are at it, check out Marta Writes. She is witty & clever & creative. I love her "how-to" series where readers write in & share how to actually make things they have created... so you don't just have to drool over them... you can actually DIY without the guesswork! love. I also particularly loved her post entitled, Blogging & Jealousy. The title alone speaks volumes, no? amen.

Happy Friday's eve!

PS - While I am on the topic of the blog world, thank you to those who follow my blog & think my mundane thoughts are worth a minute of your time... I appreciate it more than you know- and that includes all of my "google reader" followers... I still don't know who all you kind people are, but thank you! I am humbled.

Belated NY Resolutions.

2011-01-18T12:11:00.000-08:00

While I am aware that I am a) incredibly late AND b) extremely cliche for posting New Years' resolutions... I thought hmmm, what the heck... so thus far & furthermore in 2011 I vow to attempt or keep up with these silly & not-so silly resolutions:

Paint my fingernails more & make them more girl-ified. (ie. take/ make time to just sit still long enough to achieve an opaque color on my typers.)

Embrace my inner redhead... I. am. a. redhead. I grew up as redhead... but, I am not a red head so much anymore? I don't dye my hair at all, but much to my mother's dismay, I have somewhat grown out of it, if that is possible... however, I have the fair skin & freckles that tend to come with the territory. 2011 will be a repeated mantra to myself of wearing sunscreen daily & not feeling the need to lay for hours in the beating rays to make myself a non-existent tan. {Does this make you very happy mom? :) }

Be in the word more daily. period. We all need more of Jesus.

"And the one on whom seed was sown on the good soil, this is the man who hears the word and understands it; who indeed bears fruit and brings forth, some a hundredfold, some sixty, and some thirty." Matthew 13:23

Learn how to make & master the art of baking macaroons... this skill will be delightful to have for the many upcoming baby showers, birthday parties, & kids events that will be, without a doubt, part of our new normal in the next few years.

Keep trying new recipes & if I fail... pick myself up & try again. I love trying new dishes, however, I tend to wrongly think I know better than Mrs. Julia Child's herself sometimes & add in my own things here and there. Sometimes I make myself very proud... others, well... I have to pick myself up, scrap it, and try again... this time, following the directions. I was NEVER very good at following the directions.

Find a great pair of all-purpose scissors... my parents got me an awesome 5-piece Martha Stewart set for the kitchen that cuts anything from herbs to poultry... however, now I am now looking for the perfect pair for my new craft table. One that perfectly cuts paper, fabric, etc. Still searching...

Find a way to create some open shelving in our kitchen... I love the look of it. Love it. Such a fun way to display & access the everyday.

Master the art of HTML & CSS... Oh, the possibilities. It opens a whole new world & a whole new avenue for design work. I know the basics... but once you know the basics, you realize very quickly that the basics are 1% of the whole shebang.

And finally, and on everyone's list (the gym attendance numbers alone prove this) wake up & get my day started with a workout. My consistency tended to waver the last month or so in 2010 - so 2011 is about getting myself there.

Happy Tuesday! Its almost Friday, right?

Sweet Em.

2011-01-17T14:00:00.000-08:00

Hey Em... you're the best.

The best at chatting.

The best at playing barbies.

The best at sleepovers.

The best at telling me stories.

The best at shopping.

The best at bossing me around.

The best at being like a sister.

The best at being my matron.

The best at kareoke.

The best at being a mom.

The best at being my friend.

xoxo.

mfcreativedesigns.com

2011-01-10T14:05:00.000-08:00

Finally got this little ditty up & running... finally. And while it's not perfect & I am still tweaking and adding, I am glad I got it up! I am not great with HTML coding, or CSS for that matter, but it is now on my list of things to work on in 2011. More on that later... I digress.

mfcreativedesigns.com is up & running! It doesn't really do much, it is more of a cohesive place to upload my latest work and a nicer place to direct people to than Etsy.

For some reason, however, it looks a whole lot cleaner on a Mac, versus PC. Why is this? anyone? its driving me nuts.

xoxo. Happy Monday!

an amalgamation.

2011-01-07T12:40:00.000-08:00

January has hit... we're back in the swing of things. It felt so nice to pack up the decorations, & clean & purge & start fresh. I have no concise thoughts at the moment, but here is the current amalgamation of tidbits in my brain at the moment.

Sweet Paul {one of my fav. food styling blogs} made this awesome cut paper silhouette frame. So chic & clever... and a fun, unexpected twist to the classic profile silhouette. It would be perfect for a family. {Great use of texture, too. }

I had some best chums over for dinner & to decorate gingerbread houses over the holidays... or that was the intention. I started the process & failed... so therefore, we still decorated gingerbread houses, they were just, well, flat. :) Maybe one day I can work on them each year, & hoepfully have them perfected by the time kids roll around. Anyone have any tips?

Are these little girls not so presh? thats all. I am just dreaming myself out of the cold & on a boat right now... in the sun, with cute nautical stripes.

This DIY tutorial is awesome. Make your own tray for all your little ditties - jewelry, soap, etc. Such a great gift idea. I love the Little Green Notebook.

I have come to the conclusion that my favorite combination for cooking is rosemary, lemon, garlic, and salt & pepper. Seriously... so wonderful on anything. Chicken, potatoes, rice, couscous... even bread. Try it. Trust me. {and there is no science to it.}

and finally, I could go on & on {I believe I already have} about my love of miniature things. This mini doll supermarket from the 1960's is absolutely rad. My dad built me a doll house that is still my favorite Christmas present to this day. I am going to re-gift it to my munchkin one day, but this supermarket would be an awesome addition to add to the mix. Momma doll could bebop over to the grocery store for the daily meal, right? right. {man, I must be ready for the weekend.}

Happy Happy Friday... ciao.

xo.

2010-12-21T20:32:00.000-08:00

Have a very Merry Christmas & an extremely happy New Year.

Much Love, the Fraziers

xoxo.

lemony goodness.

2010-12-21T15:09:00.000-08:00

Just recently plucked our ripe myer lemons off our 2nd anniversary lemon tree ... such an awesome gift from my parents. {and such a random time to harvest, no?} I am dying to make these... people literally swear on their life by them. Oooohhh sweet Ina.

2010-12-21T14:58:00.000-08:00

I'm sorry, but the fact that Miss Blake Lively loves to bake & make cake pops just made my heart swell with glee & love her even more... can't get much more presh than that. {Read story here at bakerella}

baby it's cold outside...

2010-12-14T12:44:00.000-08:00

I wish the holidays would slow down... everyone's 'to-do' lists seem to multiply from shopping & baking, to prepping & wrapping... I do love it all. However, while I know the hustle & bustle is what makes the holidays, sometimes I just want to stop & take time to sit & soak it up.

Being at home for the holidays & truly enjoying your space with its smells & twinkly lights is what makes this my favorite time of year. It gives you time to reflect on what the true meaning of Christmas is... that He came to this earth to save US. you. we. me. little ol' imperfect, sinful me. Thank you Jesus... THAT is what we can sit & soak up this season.

NY.

2010-12-06T13:05:00.000-08:00

We spent a few days in New York last week... and I have to admit, the food was quite possibly the highlight this trip. (Thank you SSS.) I wish I was better at remembering to document our culinary par-takings before we devour them. We had everything from truffle oil mac-n-cheese & fried Oreos to goat cheese omelets and rich cheese burgers.

We love New York, & try to work in a trip whenever we can. I had the privilege of doing an internship with Bergdorf one summer about 6 or 7 years ago, and at the time, felt like I had tackled figuring out where everything was & had gotten out of the touristy rut. It never ceases to amaze me how quickly the city changes... and how lost once again I can feel. Every time we go, things you remember in one location can quickly disappear & seemingly seconds later, someone snatches up the real estate & some other great new little venue or shop is in its place.

This trip we ventured over to Williamsburg Brooklyn (first stop off the L, over the East River) & got out of the chaos of the city for the afternoon. We loved it. It is a quiet, hipster little town... with quaint little boutiques, restaurants, and art galleries. You also can catch an amazing view of Manhattan... I easily think it was one of my favorite things we've done.

I wish I had remembered to look this up earlier in the day... D*Sponge's City Guide for Brooklyn. I love all their city guides, but this one was especially useful... for that matter, check them all out. I know most people know about them & they are old news... however, sometimes it is fun to look up your own hometown & get some fresh ideas on eateries or shopping locales. They are also ALWAYS updating them... so keep them at your fingertips & you will not be disappointed.

{More pics to come... my husband took ALOT. These poor quality ones or from my little iphone.} Happy Monday!

fur-fect.

2010-12-03T13:37:00.000-08:00

I'm sorry, but who doesn't love a beautiful mink stole or coat during the chilly months? I know. I know... its Texas. Don't you worry, though, I'll find an excuse to wear one any day. I love fur dressed down & styled with some skinny jeans & leather boots... or even some boho pumps & black leggings. Its 2010 people... they ain't your grandma's stuffy fur anymore.

the younger years.

2010-12-01T20:55:00.000-08:00

Stumbled upon these little goodies... He's pretty much my favorite person in the world.

PS. - I think I might shed some tears if our little boys don't look identical to him one day.

my type.

2010-12-01T12:17:00.000-08:00

If you have a moment... check out this little ditty from Pentagram & take the video test. The image above is my "type" that I tested for: "Pistilli Roman" is my font personality in a nutshell & I must say, I am pretty smitten with it... I love the stroke, scale, & shape. Enjoy!

P.S. - We just got back from an amazing trip to Philly & New York with fam... (pics to come) so, yet again, I'm ashamed at my absence from the blogging world, it seems there are just not enough hours in the day. I am, however, impressed with those of you who get at it daily though. props. I do enjoy my daily cup o' coffee & blog readings... so thanks those of you who are diligent.

Happy hump day.

Poppin' up.

2010-11-16T12:36:00.000-08:00

Check out the Kate Spade Pop Up Shop in London.... {sigh.} I do think I would like to be invited to this fascinating little soiree. Enjoy!

THE bag.

2010-11-10T12:03:00.000-08:00

My current intrigue? The famous & stunning Jane Birkin. Her life was pretty scandelous, albeit interesting... however she is most noteably associated nowadays for inspiring or designing the Hermès Birkin bag. In 1984, on an Air France flight from Paris to London, Jane Birkin pulled her Hermes datebook out of her bag and all her papers fell on the floor. She complained to the passenger sitting next to her that the book should have pockets. That passenger was the chairman of Hermes, Jean-Louis Dumas, and after hearing her complain he created the Birkin bag. What a hot mess she was... however, I can see why she continues to stir up the craze for the handbag to this day.

PS - I heart that hair of hers & her sense of self & style.

bangs.

2010-11-09T15:22:00.000-08:00

I cut some funky bangs & layers a few days ago & have been loving them... miss Kate was my inspiration, however, I am a far cry from her.... she can make a paper sack look hot. real hot.

wanna be inventors...

2010-11-09T15:06:00.000-08:00

I love that the production & marketing of ideas, products, & services has fallen into the hands of the creator. The middle man seems to be gradually eliminating. From etsy.com & ebay to even blogs promoting their own talent, the inventor or creative brain gets to take the reins & be their own entreprenuer & I LOVE it. Now on to the point of this post... Quirky.com is now on the scene & it is awe-some. To fully understand how awesome it is, you need to know the old process for inventing first, {according to Wired mag.}
1. Invent an idea.

2. Check out the US Patent and Trademark office website to make sure no-one had the idea first.

3. Design and prototype with a 3-D model by using Blender or Google's sketchup software.

5. Find the right partner to manufacture it using alibaba.com.

6. Sell it on SparkFun or market your own ecommerce through Yahoo.

Now, as if that wasn't easy enough, Quirky.com makes it even easier. For just $10 you can submit an idea (no prototype model needed), have it judged & voted upon, then developed by the community, prototype included, & sold online using this single website. I love that now virtually anyone can be a part of the creative process... kudos to Quirky for thinking outside of the box & bringing production to us little people. :)

If you are searching...

2010-10-25T14:23:00.000-07:00

Don't you just love a great new, useful site? I love this genius "I can't find my phone" tool is & how sleek the design is... this will especially come in handy for my sweet hub, as well.

{via here.}

playful.

2010-10-20T14:39:00.000-07:00

Brilliant! Kate Spade commissioned seven female writers to each write a short story with the phrase "She is quick & curious & playful & strong..." somewhere in their writing. This just seems so delightful & a perfect gift to give or get for Christmas. (free ground shipping, too!)

sneak peek.

2010-10-18T07:36:00.000-07:00

Just wanted to give you a little sneak peek into our future... this is Ryan & I, & our two vizslas, Senga (& Bruiser) living up north east in our beautiful French country abode. We don't work anymore because we invented something really useful or cured cancer. We do get out, though, in our J. Crew attire for picnics, boat rides, and the like everyday.

Hey, it's Monday... a girl can dream.

{images via Wall Street Journal. ahem, might I add, the only Journalism that tends to never let me down... they unfailingly keep it real, and correct.}

photo ops?

2010-10-15T13:20:00.000-07:00

Have any of y'all seen this blog? It is a new fav. People send in "re-created" or "re-staged" pictures from their childhood. I love this idea... I can think of a few that would be pretty awesome to retake with my brother, as well as some pretty ridiculous ones from highschool with my life-long friends. xoxo.

yummy.

2010-10-15T11:42:00.000-07:00

This was a nice change up to the week... its got a slight kick of spicy, & a subtle sweetness all in one savory dish. Of course, I never fully stick to the recipe which is not a shock anymore to the hub... I was overly generous with the cinnamon & raisins... It was de-lish. Do try.

Spiced Couscous & Chicken:

Ingredients

3/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon ground ginger
Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper
4 medium carrots, thinly sliced
1 cup couscous, preferably whole wheat
2 cups coarsely shredded rotisserie chicken (Iud
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
1/2 cup sliced almonds
1/4 cup golden raisins (I used regular raisins.)
4 scallions, white and light green parts only, roughly chopped
1/2 cup roughly chopped fresh cilantro, plus more for topping
Greek yogurt and/or harissa or other hot sauce, for topping

Directions

Bring 2 1/2 cups water to a boil in medium saucepan over medium-high heat. Add 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon, the ginger, 1 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon pepper. Add the carrots and cook until crisp-tender, 3 to 4 minutes. Drain the carrots, reserving the cooking liquid.

Put the couscous and chicken in a medium bowl; pour 1 cup of the hot cooking liquid on top. Stir, then cover tightly with plastic wrapand let sit 5 minutes. Fluff the couscous with a fork.

Meanwhile, melt the butter in a medium skillet over medium-high heat. Add the almonds, raisins, scallions and the remaining 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon. Cook, stirring, until the nuts are toasted, 2 to 3 minutes. Stir in the cilantro.

Divide the couscous and chicken among bowls. Top with the carrots and more of the cooking liquid. Sprinkle with the almond mixture and more cilantro. Top with yogurt and/or harissa.

{via Food Network Magazine.}

wordless wednesday.

2010-10-13T10:12:00.000-07:00

Even a fool is thought wise if he keeps silent, & discerning if he holds his tongue. - Proverbs 17:28

love.

2010-10-06T14:54:00.000-07:00

organized, clean chaos.

2010-10-06T10:43:00.000-07:00

I love nothing more than stacks & stacks of dishes... and white, chic kitchens. There is something I am always drawn to when it comes to a great image of monochromatic, organized chaos. {Yes, English teachers, I am fully aware this is an oxymoron.} I love when a home looks clean & neat... but lived in & loved.

I am obviously not one for the modern or minimalistic... give me loads of texture, tons of warmth, over the top -tall stacks, homey goodness, earthy tones, bold patterns, neutral finishes, monochromatic colors, plush sofas, and a welcoming environment-- Organized, clean chaos at its finest & a place I can sigh and call home.

Happy Hump Day! I know I have been very MIA... my life has been dedicated to work & the NM Legendary Christmas Book Window Unveiling {my little baby}, as of late. Yep, Christmas starts early in retail... try early as in, last February. How I don't turn into a grinch by the time December rolls around is still a mystery to me!

It's fall y'all!

2010-09-27T07:01:00.000-07:00

{first 4 images: Fall @ the Fraziers, last 8 images, from Martha & various others}

Its finally brisk outside... I broke out the fall decorations yesterday & purchased the first of many (& have almost completed) jumbo bags of candy corn for the season. My thoughtful mom surprised me with the beautiful pumpkin loaf pan from Williams Sonoma & Pumpkin Spice bread mix... delish! We ate some smokey cheese and chips & salsa with the football game on, I went to the pumpkin patch & did some fall shopping with my mom, we (see: Ryan) worked in the yard & we (see: me) decorated the front porch, and drank some hot spiced tea late last night.

This is absolutely my favorite time of the year... the weather, the fashion (boots!), the food, the football, the fair, etc. I adore it...

& here's a yummy-looking adult Apple cider Recipe to kick - start your fall season, adapted from Martha. I am dying to try this soon...

Mulled Spiced Cider

2 quarts fresh apple cider (in a pinch, jarred from the grocery will do the trick)
1/2 cup firmly packed light-brown sugar
1 teaspoon whole cloves
1 teaspoon whole allspice
2 cinnamon sticks + 10 for garnish (1 per mug)
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 dash nutmeg
1 1/2 ounces rum (sometimes I substitute Spiced Rum for extra flavor)
With cloves and allspice in a teaball, cook all ingredients in a crockpot on low 2-8 hours (it smells divine!). Stir occasionally to dissolve sugar. Want to make it quicker? Just warm in a medium size pot on the stove on low heat 20 - 30 minutes or until your concoction is simmering & the sugar is melted. At this point, add 1 1/2 ounces (Bacardi) Gold Rum per mugful when poured. If pouring into a thermos, combine and pour at the end; just don’t cook the rum. Serves 10.

Happy Fall Monday!

the chair.

2010-09-21T08:49:00.000-07:00

Finally, here is my birthday present... our wingback recovered! I am in love! I wanted a pattern that was bold, but not too bold or too trendy where I would grow tired of it over the years. I also wanted a color/pattern I could move from room to room and not pigeon hole myself. We are really happy with it... if you need a very reasonable re- upholsterer in Dallas, I have got the place!

I also sewed some pillows to tie in more of the gray/ blue color... I fell in love with the fabric, but it didn't work on the chair, so I moved it to some pillows on the sofa...

and a for neckroll-ish pillow for the bench...

I also sewed a blue/creme pillow in a coordinating fabric for Senga to lay her little head on this winter. We pulled the colored rug out of this room, moved it to our bedroom, and pulled this one in from the garage. We had it in here a few years ago, but at the time, it seemed too dull and needed more color... now, we have color elsewhere, so this little thing made a reappearance to tone & calm the room back down. I love it now, it is more peaceful and seems to fir out taste & personalities more.

Happy late birthday to me & happy, happy Tuesday!

mugs.

2010-09-17T13:19:00.000-07:00

I stumbled across this happy blog, faces in places. As you "well, obviously" can see... people send in images of faces they stumble across throughout the day. I feel like I notice faces all the time... so, I love that someone has taken the time to make a compilation. They are so intriguing all together. I love this... happy little reminders.

Happy weekend everyone! happy. happy.

LV.

2010-09-15T12:46:00.000-07:00

Without a doubt, still my favorite advertising presentation & collection, as of yet. I have been spying it all over Pre-Fall & September issues for the past month and literally cannot. get. enough. So preppy, posh, and feminine....{Sigh.}

from LV. duh.

the bench.

2010-09-13T11:04:00.000-07:00

ALERT: Please excuse these HORRIBLE images... I used my iPhone because it was available & convenient... like always. :)

I have always loved the shape of this bench, but was never so much a fan of the fabric. It always seemed a bit drab looking to me... so, while the other two chairs are getting professionally upholstered, I decided to save some dough & try my hand at reupholstering... what's the harm in trying, right? I tried to take some pics a long the way, but bare with me, I got very focused & lacked images in some areas.

I first began by intricately observing the bench to see the details & taking pictures to help me remember what I needed to replicate. I then removed the legs, careful to label them so that I could line them up again properly. Next, I found the piece of fabric that should obviously come off first: { usually the back or bottom.} In my case, it was the bottom cover liner. I carefully removed the stables with priers and a flathead screwdriver... careful not to rip the fabric so that I could recut my new fabric to the exact sizes needed. Then just go step by step in what seem to be be the easiest and most effective to come off next. The dissembling part is the longest and most tedious... I ended up with blisters on my hands 5 hrs. later. IMPORTANT: Again, TAKE NOTE of EVERY contruction detail... and take pictures of each section along the way so you won't forget.

labeling.

dissembling.

The sides of my bench were the most tedious and difficult, but it varies, obviously, from piece to piece.

Then, basically, I just started carefully stapling the fabric back in place exactly like I took it off... making sure to keep it taut, and in my case, (with the stripes) straight. I covered the bottom cushion first, then moved the the arms... the only trick is just making sure your staples stay hidden and secure along the way. (Make sure you are stapling into the wood, and not the batting.

Bottom before the finish out fabric.

side arm.

bottom cushion completed.

Again, while working on the arms, just make sure your folds are pulled taut and you have secured everything properly with staples. The staple gun will be your best friend... and your worst enemy.

Below, I had to cover and clean up the side of the arms because there was a gap in the structure. You can make things look really clean with thick cardboard pieces cut to size and stapled in with batting then placed over it. It gives the side a cleaner finish and covers up your flaws.

I finally had to re-nail all the studding back in... I was really careful in removing it so that I could reuse them and not have to buy more. You can always just plunk them out and replace, but I took the longer route to save me a trip to the store and some cash. (This would definitely be an area you could cut down on time, if you choose.) Once you pull out the studding, take some pliers and straighten the nail shaft back to a 90 degree angle. (Sweet Ry did this part for me while watching football... ) I then carefully measured my spacing with new quantity of nail heads (after loosing a few), marked the placement of each with a a marker, and started nailing them in, again. You can use a rubber mallet to protect the nail heads, but I just used a good ol' BU rally rag and duck tape to cover the hammer and add some padded protection so I wouldn't scratch, dent, or knick the heads.

I then just screwed back in the legs and bought some 3" nails for reinforced support, and drilled them into the base.

See before: (sorry, its my only before image I have)

And after:

This little beaut has a whole new lease on life... and she only cost me the fabric and some cents on the dollar for the reinforcement screws.

Happy Monday!

taupe lovin.

2010-09-10T15:12:00.000-07:00

Oh me, Oh my... Chanel is introducing its new Les Khakis de Chanel nail-polish collection tonight, featuring three military-inspired colors: Khaki Vert, Khaki Brun, and Khaki Rose. Woweee, I do adore these colors!

They are "A welcome contrast to the hit-you-over-the-head shades of summer..."

I will pair perfectly with all the Camel and Military inspired apparel for Fall... well, actually, in my opinion I think it would look smashing with just about anything you decide to don this autumn. { sigh.}

Chanel or online.

hello, world.

2010-09-09T14:06:00.000-07:00

Hello out there, I am still alive! I just have been uber busy, some of which is my own doing {which is a wonderful thing... & thank you everyone for your kind, encouraging words about my graphic work & for helping me get the word out! I have loved being busy for those reasons.} & then of course, my day job keeps me trucking along at a quick pace. ha. Along with trying to figure more of the logistics out of MF Designs as a side business/ hobby... :)

I've been loving this poster... from here. Wonderful message & mission in life to attempt to follow.

I've been eyeing this wreath for Halloween & have already busted out the gold spray paint to work on various Halloween 2010 ditties. I also made my annual, (or multi annual... who am I kidding? I love Dollar Tree!) Halloween trip to Dollar Tree. :) Love that place for select holiday decorations. Yes, I know I am too early, but I looove it. A girl can, at least, start planning... and everyone knows you can never have enough ravens.

I've been greatly inspired by this installation by the Ferney's, so I decided to try my hand at cake painting... the concept was so fun and whimsical, so I busted out an old canvas & paints & attempted my own version for the kitchen. Painting really is the most relaxing activity on the planet... while I was satisfied with my end result, it pails in comparison to Paul F's work. {note: this is NOT my painting, I repeat, NOT my painting... its Paul F.'s. I do wish it was mine to claim, though.}

I have been literally scouring EVERY known online store, site, & resale shop for a well priced, fits my needs, nicely contructed project table. Still looking, but boy, they are pricey & if you are gonna spend that much, it needs to fit ALL your needs, right? right. That's what I thought. Maybe one day, soon... but, for those of you that want to know, there are a lot of 'make your own options' out there... just ask & I can point ya in the right direction. I do believe I am the 'Project Table Expert Connoisseur' right now... just saying. :)

Along with my birthday present, {recovering my wingback!} (it lives where the bench is in this pic - which is from last fall) we had to get that leather club chair (right) patched up due to, well, a mischievous little pup... she made her little afternoon snack the yummy side of the chair... so we are chairless in our living room right now. So, why not seize the moment! I took the opportunity of extra floor space to tackle an upholstry project of my own... that little bench is torn up right now & is being given a new lease on life & some sofa pillows are being recovered via Frazier Reupholstering Deluxe! ha. I have taken pics to do a 'How To' after I, hopefully, complete it this weekend. I can't wait to see the results... however, I could a dug myself into a really big hole. :) I obviously have been living at various fabric stores, as of late.

Finally, and most importantly, I also have gotten to catch up with some dear friends, lately... and I realize how blessed I am really am with the family & friends the Lord has put in my life, in good times and in bad. I have the greatest Family & Friends this side of the Mason Dixon... I just know it.

Happy Friday's Eve! Woweee its already almost the weekend! xoxo.

Etsy Shop.

2010-09-02T21:38:00.000-07:00

{See Etsy Shop link on Right hand column of blog.}

I still have lots to add and things to tweak... but hey, you gotta start somewhere, right?

Off to bed, finally.

xoxo.

fresh start.

2010-09-01T13:49:00.000-07:00

Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Honor one another above yourselves. Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, and faithful in prayer.

Romans 12:9 -12

(Photo from the Farmer's market last week... one of the last tastes of summer & a sweet reminder of starting fresh.)

Happy Wednesday.

pretty packaging.

2010-09-01T13:46:00.000-07:00

Stumbled across this darling packaging from Jamie Oliver at Williams Sonoma. So simple and fresh.

Check out his video, as well. I'll take some of that lemon curd, please... its my favorite.

Play report.

2010-08-27T11:18:00.000-07:00

Ikea did this sweet little study on Playing... they call it their "Play Report." I think the video speaks for itself, really. All I am going to say is, I love their message. Ry & I were fortunate enough to have parents that embraced and invested time in playing with us and taught us how to play, well, very well. :)

On that note, I apologize for my absence from the blogging world... but, I have to say the only excuse I have is, I've been playing!

Enjoy & happy weekend!

tootles.

2010-08-17T13:10:00.000-07:00

Off to the beach to see a bestie get married to her man & bask in the sun for days with very dear friends... pina coladas & good conversation await. ta ta. tootaloo. adios.

PS - How presh is this pic? via swiss miss.

PPS - I am obsessed with stripes as well. :)

shine on.

2010-08-17T12:53:00.000-07:00

It's pretty obvious / apparent that I have a mad, deep obsession for anything donning sequins... {preferably larger piets in a matte finish, if you really want to know.} :) My most recent purchases seem to ALL have sequins, either to cover or embellish... (The last piece I came home with, a sequin sweatshirt, I think Ry thought it was literally a practical joke. ) I love them paired with textured, organic or raw fabrics in a neutral color... I think, even spicing them up with some stripes is sassy. I believe I need to refrain from anymore sparkley apparel at the moment... but all I can picture is a future daughter LOVING her "vintage sequin pieces" later on in life - and yes, I am fully aware this notion is absolutely ridiculous. Shine on... Happy Tuesday!

Land Giants.

2010-08-13T11:29:00.000-07:00

I wouldn't mind these power lines one bit if they were in our alley... what a innovative way to transform a bland, utilitarian object that most people wouldn't even fathom redesigning or re-engineering, & simply rethinking it into an installation of sculptures that is awe-inspiring. American firm choi + shine architects recently received the 2010 Boston Society of Architects Award for Unbuilt Architecture for their project 'The Land of Giants'. "They originally designed for the Icelandic high voltage electrical pylon competition back in 2008."
I think my favorite part is how the figures take on the weight or burden they are carrying in the power lines... for instance, when they are straining going up a hill or "curling" the power line.

ice cream cones.

2010-08-13T11:23:00.000-07:00

What a happy way to pep up some everyday, ho-hum helium balloons. Simply perfection, I tell ya. For the umpteenth time in my life, I exclaim, "Oh, Martha. You did it again."

From the CraftsDept.

straight to the point.

2010-08-09T11:40:00.000-07:00

Anything tiny & miniature makes me happy... but this level of talent & attention to detail leave me in awe. These are pencils! I can't even begin to image the time that went into these little works of art. "Dalton Ghetti uses a razor blade, sewing needle, a sculpting knife, a steady hand and lots of patience to meticulously carve the graphite which can take anywhere between a few months to a few years." These make me want to work a little harder, as well as more carefully, on this Manic Monday sort of day.

twitteriffic.

2010-08-05T07:42:00.000-07:00

Found this article very intriguing, I Tweet, Therefore I Am, from the NY Times. Its about social media & how it affects our view of self in society today. Check it out if you have a chance.

Life lately from the iPhone.

2010-08-04T08:33:00.000-07:00

Life lately from the iPhone's point of view... what would we do without our camera phones? ShakeitPhoto & QuadCam are my best buds as of late...

Summer Sundays in the back yard. my favorite.

Senga allowed on the sofa, a rare occasion.

A Fiesta at the Fraziers... with of course, extreme amounts of guac.

In our backyard one afternoon... it looks like a verse should be inscribed across this image.

Ry's birthday dinner at Tillman's Roadhouse - Blood Orange Margs, Fried Pickles, and truffle oil popcorn for appetizers. divine.

Tillman's table side s'mores with flavored marshmallows... I mean, my obsession for mallows & s'mores dates back all the way to 3rd grade. I used to have one for afternoon everyday after school. that and popcorn.

Senga's new life savor... her "Cool Pooch" waterbottle from Ry's brother. It's pretty phenomenal. :)

Shopping for work at some Army / Navy stores...

Dinner, Drinks, & Darts with some besties...

Without fail, pretty typical if we are watching TV.

My candy drawer at work... don't worry its all gone now. Sugar is my no. 1 downfall in life.

Playing at the park with Naughers and the pups...

Banana pancakes in Anaheim, CA... they hit the spot perfectly.

Stuck in LA traffic with my wonderful sister-in-law.

More park time... clearly Senga needs her "Cool Pooch" waterbottle from the looks of this pic.

Beach time in Santa Barbara, CA...

I drove around 'till I struck gold...

Trader Joe's - the thumpbeat of my heart.

First tomatoes of the summer from our porch pot...

At the wholesaler for work...

Yummy fajitas on the back porch one night...

New backyard growth...

My office is right above Blockbuster headquarters... & Darth. It gets comical.

Working on a mock-up at work... in a wonderland of white.

Breakfast at Breadwinners. Cinnamon Raisin french toast... be still my heart.

Up in the cafe at the Wylie.

On the stage at the Winspear... I tried to sing, you can imagine how that went.

Happy Wednesday... halfway there. :)