Great Full Day

FOLLOW ME HOME...

noreply@blogger.com (Lindsey Michelle) — Thu, 03 Mar 2011 14:15:00 +0000

So, I'm a bit embarrassed. I've been posting on my new blog for a couple of weeks now. And to be honest I was kind of sad to see so little traffic coming from Great Full Day. You see, I installed a redirecting widget to automatically forward visitors to my new site. But duh!!! Many of you view the site thru a reader or follow on blogger so you may not have known (at least this is what I'm telling myself, I miss you guys!).

Please follow me to my new home: www.lindseymichellephotographyblog.com
Update your readers, feeds, and links so you can join me!

New Blog!

noreply@blogger.com (Lindsey Michelle) — Tue, 22 Feb 2011 14:05:00 +0000

My new blog is up and running! I've begun posting there and hope you will follow me to my new, permanent home.

Please update your feeds/readers to: www.lindseymichellephotographyblog.com to join me.
I thank you for your continued support and hope to see you there!

xo,
Lindsey

13 on Thursday

noreply@blogger.com (Lindsey Michelle) — Thu, 10 Feb 2011 23:04:00 +0000

I'm trying to gradually ease back into the blogging world, taking a break to get things situated with the new blog have made me fall off the proverbial wagon! Things have been busy and cold here! So I'm going to play a bit of catch up here with this 13 on Thursday post.

I know our temperatures and conditions are nothing compared to where some of you live but I'm cold and over the winter! We've had sleet, freezing rain, no sunshine and snow over the last week. I don't mind the cold so much as the general dreariness. I'm ready for Spring.
My birthday is 38 days away. Wow, that puts things in perspective! I've updated my 30 before 30 list here so you can see my progress. I better get cracking!

There are so many great Valentine's Day ideas out in the blogosphere. I believe love + romance should be celebrated year round but I admit the abundence of pink, red and white do make my heart flutter a bit. Here are three of my faves: 1, 2, 3
CSNstores generously gave me a credit to spend and used it on a Breville Juicer. I'd like to learn more about healthy juices to whip up, especially with veggies. Do you have any favorite recipes and/or books for me to check out?

As a child I was an avid reader. I remember no matter where I went I always had a book with me. I loved Sweet Valley Twins and Sweet Valley High. I think I still have a box or two filled with my collection of the series in my parents' attic. Did you read Fracine Pascal's books too? An adult version of the beloved books is in the works and will be released on March 29th. I can't wait to read Sweet Valley Confidential and see what the girls are up to these days.
Last week I stumbled unto a beauty must have: Sally Hansen's Complete Salon Manicure. It was on a display at the drug store and I nonchalantly checked out it and fell in love. I purchased "Shall We Dance" and the hue is barely noticeable on my nails but it is just nude enough to give me a manicured look. The brush is really unique and works well and the polish dries really fast. Best part it leaves your nails uber shiny, just like from the salon. Love it! Get some now!
Did you know there is an official "Random Acts of Kindness Week?" I just learned of it and thought I'd share. Next week is RAK Week and if you visit the Random Acts of Kindness Foundation's website you'll find lots of ideas on how to participate. I'm pretty excited about it!

I'm really loving stripes for spring. I'll take one of these and one of these too please. :-)
I've been designing and designing lately and putting my graphic design degree to use. Wedding invitations, shower invitations, illustrations, etc. It has been quite fun!
This week I spent some time going through old photos for a decor project I'm working on. This just reiterated my love for photography. So many moments are captured in time for generations to come--what a great art form!
Getting thank you notes in the mail is the best! I need to get better about sending them and sending them for every little thing. You cannot say "thank you" enough.

I'm love, love, loving all of the nude colors at the award shows these days. Some of my faves are above. I don't think I could pull off so little color though, since I'm pale. Eek!
This year's Superbowl was not nearly as fun for me as last years. ;-) But I did enjoy the Darth Vador commercial. Hilarious! What was your favorite commercial?

So what is new with you my friends? I've missed you!
xo,
Lindsey

Closing Up Shop!

noreply@blogger.com (Lindsey Michelle) — Sat, 29 Jan 2011 00:11:00 +0000

Hi everyone! I'm popping by with a quick announcement. I've decided to "close up shop" over on Etsy. It has been a little too much to maintain with all the other projects I've been working on. Soooo, I know a few people had mentioned wanting to purchase prints and I wanted to give everyone that opportunity before I close my virtual doors.

And in the spirit of thankfulness for your support I'd like to offer you a discount: 50% off all prints and free shipping on purchases of 3 or more prints. Just enter the coupon code: thanks. I will accept orders until midnight on Friday, February 4th.

The new blog will be up very, very soon.
As always thank you guys so much for your support!
xo,
Lindsey

13 on Thursday: I'm Back!

noreply@blogger.com (Lindsey Michelle) — Fri, 14 Jan 2011 04:54:00 +0000

Happy 2011 everyone!
I cannot believe it has been almost a month since I've blogged. This is the longest I've gone without blogging since 2008! I thought this would be a perfect time to do a "13 on Thursday" to play a bit of catch-up.

{ a photo of one of the beautiful brides I worked with recently }

Our Christmas was amazing. We spent lots of time with family, ate amazing foods and generally felt blessed by all around us. Didn't hurt that we were spoiled rotten either! How was your holiday?
Since we last "chatted" I've kept very busy by taking photos of some amazing people. We shot a wedding on New Year's Eve that was amazing and another great one last week too. This weekend will be yet another nuptial photoshoot. It has been a blast and I feel so blessed to have such wonderful clients.
Another reason for my absence here is that my blog will undergoing a major makeover and revamp in content over the next weeks. I'm just so excited about it, I want to save all of my posts until then. I sure hope you'll love it as much as I do.
It has been really cold here (in Louisiana's terms at least--in the 20s!) and I've been enjoying it a bit. Having an excuse to drink Starbucks frequently, snuggle up under two comforters and spend time editing indoors without feeling guilty is great!
Having said that, I am a bit excited for Spring too. So many amazing events will take place over the coming months--I'm ready to soak it all in.
I got a new mac a few weeks ago and I'm loving it. My office is undergoing some decor additions and its sleek shape fits right in. I can't wait to complete the space so I can share it with you. Right now I'm looking at modern rugs to finish off the look.
Lately I've been on a Pandora kick while editing in the office. What is your favorite station?
On a similar note, I need to update my itunes with some new sounds. Any favorite tunes to share?
I have found the perfect chocolate chip recipe! World's best! I'll share it soon--promise.
Part of my Matron of Honor duties for my sister is to design/choose a design for her invitations. I'm currently exploring letterpress designs, they are all so pretty. Do you have a favorite letterpress designer?
I'm kind of sad that as adults we don't exchange Valentine cards the way we did in elementary school. I totally want to design + send out cute cards. Something about the red, pink and white hues make me feel all warm and fuzzy.
I came across this on the web today: Kids Trying to Figure Out 80s technology. It is pretty funny since that really doesn't seem that long ago. Also interesting: Things Kids Born in 2011 Will Never Know. Feeling old yet? I kind of am!
I'm not going to finish every thing on my 30 Before 30 List. I've made great headway and am optimistic I'll finish more but I'm trying to be realistic. I did however do many things NOT on the list so that counts for something right? To be honest I'm trying to distract myself from the fact I'll be the big 3-0 soon. Eek!

So that is a bit of what's going on with me. Until the blog redesign is complete I may be a bit scarce but I'll pop in. Hope you guys will stick around and be patient with me!

xo,
Lindsey

Merry Christmas!

noreply@blogger.com (Lindsey Michelle) — Wed, 22 Dec 2010 00:14:00 +0000

This will come as no surprise but I've been a bit consumed by the hustle and bustle of the season. I've really been enjoying wrapping gifts, baking cookies, entertaining friends and spending time with family. Oh yea, and I've been enjoying holiday beverages from 'Bucks as often as possible. ;-) My clients have also kept me busy with orders and editing...I feel so very grateful for this! It is for these reasons the blog has been so quite lately.

I've made the decision to sign off for the year! I want to dedicate my time to the true reason of the season and enjoy the cheer and joy it brings. I'm sure you will all be busy with festivities of your own and won't even miss me much!

I wish all of you a very merry Christmas. May you and yours be blessed throughout the season and into the new year too! Next year is going to be a great one. I just know it! I'll be back soon.

xo,
Lindsey

Photos What this Season is, to me..., the good word, Angels We Have Heard on High, 4 A Gift for Me!?

13 on Thursday--Monday Edition

noreply@blogger.com (Lindsey Michelle) — Mon, 13 Dec 2010 23:56:00 +0000

What can I say? The holidays have kept me really busy. I feel like I am back on track a bit now. I thought I'd dive right in with a 13 on Thursday...yes, yes I know it's Monday. Let's just overlook that shall we?

My fingers are so cold right now. I really wish there were some sort of very thin, easy to type in gloves or something. Brrrrr!
This weekend I wrapped up all of our Christmas gifts (to give). I only have 2 more gifts to buy. It feels great to be so close to being done shopping. It sure has made for a less stressful holiday. How's your holiday shopping going?
Today on the BSP we are giving away a gift card to CSNstores. At times like this I wish I could win! I spent a large amount of time browsing their bedroom furniture while "researching" for the giveaway. After the new year I'm redecorating our master bedroom.
I really wish Etsy offered Gift Cards, that's what I'd want for Christmas. I have a wish list of Etsy items a mile long.

My mom bought hubby and I an Elf on The Shelf a few years ago. Even though we don't have kids we have totally been having a blast with our elf, Rudy, this year. We've shared so many laughs because of this little elf!
These macro photos of snowflakes are so pretty! Even the simplest things can be beautiful when viewed with a thankful heart.
This weekend I picked up a Polaroid 600 Land Camera at an estate sale. I can't wait to get film for it. Anyone have experience with The Impossible Project? Should I buy from them or purchase discontinued film?

Ninjabread men: awesome! My hubby would love it if I made him these.

Probably no surprise but our Christmas tree is decorated in a gingerbread + peppermint theme. So I wrap our presents in kraft paper and peppermint embellishments. These packages are so pretty though, I want to change my entire theme!

If I had the room (and the funds) I'd purchase this nativity set in a heartbeat. It is adorable!

One word: yum!
I flunked out of SFS this time around. But wowee, my classmates have taken some amazing photos.
This week I plan on drinking lots of warm beverages, finishing up the last of the Christmas photo orders, baking chocolate chip cookies and spending time with friends + family. What are your plans?

NOLA Anthropologie

noreply@blogger.com (Lindsey Michelle) — Thu, 09 Dec 2010 15:04:00 +0000

Sorry for the lack of posts this week. We took a mini vacay to NOLA this weekend and had a great time relaxing. I definitely loved being away from my computer for a few days.

In August Anthropologie opened in NOLA and this was my first chance to check it out. They took over the spot Pottery Barn once held and totally recreated the space. I could have easily spent hours in the store while taking photo after photo. Instead I had a limited amount of time and felt the need to covertly capture images. I thought I'd share a few with you...

They had really cute, creative holiday displays...

Even the staircase was unique....

I loved the display case filled with peach colored boxes. There were so many items I picked up hoping to purchase that were marked: "prop."

This funky P&S photo doesn't capture the beauty of this chandelier. It was wrapped in thick rope. I bet this would be an easy DIY project!

This display of lovely colored mittens was just darling. Replicating this in a child's room would be sweet...

I really, really, really wanted to take this desk home. The sawhorse/artist table was to die for! I wonder if I could get my hubby to construct something similar that I could splatter with my own paints over time?

Even the "shopping carts" at Anthro are chic. I loved these market totes but deliberately did not pick one up. I would have filled it in no time! Instead I limited myself to what my already busy hands could handle. :-)

I'll share more NOLA photos soon. Hope you've had a great week!

Operation Christmas Child

noreply@blogger.com (Lindsey Michelle) — Mon, 29 Nov 2010 13:40:00 +0000

For the past few years I have participated in Operation Christmas Child and this year was no exception. Hubby and I put together two boxes this year and I wish I would have had time to do more. I'm blogging about it again because I really feel that Samaritan's Purse is such a great operation and that this project is worth while. Take a look at the video below to see what I mean...

You can pack your own shoebox (it is so much fun!) and find a drop off location here.
Or if you like to shop online, you can now Build-A-Box!
A really neat perk is you can Follow Your Box and find out where it was delivered and how you helped out.

Please join me in helping spread joy and blessing this Christmas.

Black Friday Sale

noreply@blogger.com (Lindsey Michelle) — Fri, 26 Nov 2010 06:00:00 +0000

I'm not patient enough to wait until "Cyber Monday" so I thought I'd share a shop discount with you guys today on the ever so ominous sounding "Black Friday."

Enter the code: blackfriday (I know real creative right?) at checkout to receive 20% off your purchase + free shipping!

That includes the cute little elf cards, if you are still looking for holiday greetings. And my 8x10" fine art prints are perfect for gifting. The sale will last until midnight tonight...so shop til ya drop from the comfort of your own home.

Happy holidays!

Great Full (almost) Friday

noreply@blogger.com (Lindsey Michelle) — Fri, 26 Nov 2010 05:34:00 +0000

I hope that you are currently drifting into dreamland with a belly full of yummy treats and a heart full of love. We spent the day with the hubby's family and enjoyed some great time with his grandmother. Afterward we headed to my parents to say hello and spent the rest of the evening relaxing while watching movies.

Thanksgiving is such a wonderful day...every one is reminded to be grateful and to appreciate blessings big and small. I know I become more aware of the beauty around me on this day. It is my hope to carry this feeling with me the entire year through.

I am grateful today for many things but I'd like to list a few that stand out in my mind today as making my life especially great and full:

a Lord who has given grace, new life and forgiveness
my husband
my family: parents, sister, cousins, uncles, in-laws...all mean the world to me
visible evidence of God's love. today it was glorious sunlight beaming from behind the clouds.
a full belly and warm bed. little things often overlooked in daily gratitudes
clients who allow me to do what i love
fabulous online buddies who have helped me grow and offered their friendship
my sweet pup

Today I hope you'll join me and take a moment to count your blessings.
Happy, happy Thanksgiving and thank YOU for reading!

13 on Thursday--Tuesday Edition

noreply@blogger.com (Lindsey Michelle) — Tue, 23 Nov 2010 20:52:00 +0000

Since we'll all no doubt be lounging about with full bellies on this Thanksgiving Thursday, I decided to keep my 13 on Thursday going by posting early. Sound good?

Great, here we go!

Did you see the news over on The Bright Side Project? It is something we've been working on for a while and I'm very excited. Not to mention, I feel very blessed for continued opportunities.
I've been editing, editing and well editing images for days. I love, love, love my job but I will admit it will be nice to step away from my computer for a few days this week.
Apparently, my Starbucks restraint is gone. Since my first pumpkin spice latte, I've been a bit hooked on yummy holiday drinks. I've tried the Caramel Brûlée and Peppermint Mocha. Caramel Brûlée is currently tied for first place with PS. Next on the "to try" list: Salted Caramel Hot Chocolate. Yum!
Every year, Thanksgiving night brings one of many great traditions...the first "A Christmas Story" viewing of the season. I cannot wait!
Another tradition (that sometimes gets delayed) is buying our Christmas tree on T-day. This year I think it will actually happen so that we can maximize our pine enjoyment. I cannot wait!
I'm mulling over a business decision with the hubby. Nothing I can reveal until a decision is made but prayers are welcome.
I photographed the most gorgeous bride (bridal portraits) and I can't wait to share her photos after the wedding--it is so hard not to show everyone!
The high temp on Thanksgiving day will be 82 degrees here--not very festive feeling. Wanna know the high for the very next day? 52 degrees!?!?

Have you seen this year's Neiman Marcus Christmas Book (catalog)? The illustrations inside the first few pages + cover are beautiful and I love looking at their over the top gifts. Can you imagine an edible gingerbread playhouse from Dylan's Candy Bar under your tree?
My google reader has 224 unread posts as of now. I think I may need to do a little clean up so I can manage better. What are your absolutely "must reads?"
I'm super sad that the Waterfalls cardigan I love at Anthro became "unavailable" before I could order it. :-( I almost shed a tear.
Last weekend the hubby and I put together two shoeboxes for Operation Christmas Child. Please visit their site for more info, if you'd like to help out too. It is also a fun thing to have kiddos help you with.
I've been staring at this #13 for far too long without a clue as to what to close with. I think I'll just make this last point to say "hope you are having a great holiday week!"

If you are playing along, leave your 13 on Thursday link in the comments so I can take a peek!

Great Full Friday

noreply@blogger.com (Lindsey Michelle) — Fri, 19 Nov 2010 21:33:00 +0000

It has been so long since I have done a great full Friday post. Sad, just sad! It is not that I haven't been grateful, just busy. But I really want to try and get this going again. I hope you'll join me and share you gratitude lists...it will help me stay motivated!

This week I am grateful for:

my doggy's health
beautiful, kind families to photograph
a warm, cozy bed on cold days
my sister who is my best friend

Photo Sources: Healthy Dog Biscuits, family feet, Day 306: Warmth at Last, 365 Days of Two Sisters 27 August 2008

13 on Thursday

noreply@blogger.com (Lindsey Michelle) — Thu, 18 Nov 2010 14:25:00 +0000

Been a busy week here as you can see from the lack of posts. I love this time of year...staying busy with fun projects. Here I go with another 13 on Thursday...

My little pup had to have a procedure done on Monday and he had to be put under. I was a nervous mommy but everything went well, he's doing great and he's extra cuddly.
I received my copy of Anthology magazine last weekend and I'm saving it for after my shoots this weekend. I want to cuddle up under a bunch of blankets, flip through the pages and sip on a warm beverage.
Speaking of warm beverages...I finally had a Pumpkin Spice Latte. Just as good as I remember and now I am afraid I'm hooked. What's your favorite holiday beverage from the 'Bucks.
This weekend I have one bridal shoot, four family shoots and a small wedding to photograph. It will be busy but fun too--I love my clients!
This Thanksgiving I am responsible for a sweet potato dish. I am thinking of keeping it simple and making this one. Do you have any sweet potato recommendations?

Another great surprise in my mailbox this week: my copy of "An Awesome Book of Thanks" by Dallas Clayton. I love, love, love this books!
Wish so many letters weren't out of stock. I'd like to spell out "eat" in my kitchen.
So sad I didn't purchase these cookie cutters before they sold out. I may have to hunt some down on ebay.
One of my SFS classmates put together a great series: 31 Days to Better Photos. I highly recommend it if you are looking to improve your photography skills.
I'm soooo behind on laundry this week. Too much photo editing, too little washing. I'll be playing catch up all day today.
I went to NY&Co to buy the skirt I talked about last week...I wasn't crazy about the color in person. I did however (thanks to some coupons my mom had) purchase three sweaters, a shirt, a skinny belt and a necklace for $75! Pretty amazing, made going to the mall worth it.
I have to admit that I can't wait for "Black Friday" to be behind us just so I can stop hearing about it. Seems retailers are really pushing it this year and it is kind of annoying.
We watched Meet the Fockers over the weekend...I'm really excited to see Little Fockers. Looks hilarious!

What's new with you this week? Are you blogging a 13 on Thursday?

Waterfalls

noreply@blogger.com (Lindsey Michelle) — Wed, 17 Nov 2010 14:08:00 +0000

As hard as it is to imagine I still have an Athro gift card burning a hold in my pocket. I am thisclose to purchasing the Wrapped-In-Waterfalls Cardigan. I picture it with dark skinny jeans and ballet flats with a little sparkle. Is it a worthy splurge?

jcrew flats

gap forever skinny jeans

old navy perfect tee

13 on Thursday

noreply@blogger.com (Lindsey Michelle) — Fri, 12 Nov 2010 02:39:00 +0000

Time again for another 13 on Thursday.
Sure hoping you guys are having a great week!

I've crossed two things off my 30 before 30 list in the last week. The first being: plant a lemon tree in our yard. My parents gifted us with the tree as an anniversary gift (this year was fruit + flowers).

Going to a concert was the second thing I crossed off. Last night along with Mikey and my parents I attended one of the best concerts I've ever been to. The performer was none other than Sir Elton John. He played many of his greatest hits and ended with "Your Song" which is one of my faves. He played for over three hours straight without an intermission. He stepped off the stage for one song and Leon Russell kept things going. It was such a great, great show and I'm glad to have seen him live.
This weekend I have a bridal shoot and three family sessions. I'm crossing my fingers the weather cooperates. We've had perfect weather the last week or so and I hope it holds out!
Can you believe there are 44 days until Christmas?!? This year has flown by! I'm pretty proud of myself for having four gifts purchased already. I'm not a true "last minute" shopper as I am never shopping two days before Christmas or anything but this is a good head start for me.

We planted pansies, kale and snapdragons in our front yard last weekend. Inside the fall decor came out of the closet. I have a lot of acorn decor for this time of year. I love fall!
On Tuesday I tried my hand at haricots verts. The fresh green beans were so crisp and flavorful. And the French language made me feel très chic on a humble week night.
An update for all of you: I STILL haven't sipped a Pumpkin Spice Latte. I had a Pumpkin Spice Frapuccino but not a latte. Maybe this weekend will be the weekend.

This time of year always makes me crave NYC. A couple years ago my family and I spent Thanksgiving in Pennsylvania and NY. It is my favorite vacation to date and the cooler southern temps make me really miss the beauty of the northeast this time of year.
I'm thinking I'm going to go with 6 weeks of cookies for SFS. I'm going to bake my first batch tomorrow since my in-laws will be in town and they can help us eat therm.

I know I've been talking about buying a pair of TOMS for ages but I've always put it off. But the new gilded herringbone style may be just the pair I've been waiting for.
Did you know Jamba Juice makes smoothie kits so you can blend drinks up a home? I bought one at Target earlier in the week. I'll let you know how it goes.
All the holiday dinnerware I've seen before has been too traditional or just plain tacky. I'd like to pair the pretty ones from Crate & Barrel with my white china.

Have you see the trailer for this film? Not sure how I feel about it. What do you think?

( click images for sources )

If you did a 13 on Thursday please share in the comments. I'd love to read. One more day til the weekend!

The Elves Are Here!

noreply@blogger.com (Lindsey Michelle) — Wed, 10 Nov 2010 14:37:00 +0000

The elf cards are here! I received them last night and they came out cuter than I imagined. The sweet little guys are ready to take a trip to visit you and spread Christmas cheer. To purchase, visit my shop.

SFS

noreply@blogger.com (Lindsey Michelle) — Tue, 09 Nov 2010 14:02:00 +0000

( a photo of mine from the last SFS session )

I'm really excited that Miss B. is hosting another Souvenir Foto School. This session's theme is "Food + Foto" and each week students will turn in a photo of anything food related but it should be part of a personal theme. I keep wavering in my decision. Assignments are due each Sunday so I need to decide soon. And since I'll be posting each week's photo here on the blog, I thought maybe you guys could help me decide. Vote below if you don't mind!

And if you are interested, sign up for SFS here. I'd love to have you as a classmate!

13 on Thursday

noreply@blogger.com (Lindsey Michelle) — Thu, 04 Nov 2010 15:08:00 +0000

It's time again for another 13 random tidbits. Hope you guys are having a great week! I STILL can't believe it is Thursday already. My sister and her fiance stayed in town to visit on Monday and it has throw me off--today feels like Wednesday to me. But it is great that is not because that means one day closer to the weekend!

We are expecting chilly (for Louisiana) temperatures for at least the next week. During the day we'll see mid 60s and low 40s at night. So today I'm doing what the majority of Southern Louisiana women are doing: making a gumbo!
My hubby ran a 5K on Saturday and got first place! I am so, so proud of him! This is deserving of exclamation points right!?!?!
I always like as much daylight as I can get but I'm pretty excited to "gain" an extra hour this Saturday. I'm looking on the bright side and taking this ritual as a sign of the holiday fun around the corner.
Anyone else feel that Mondo was robbed? I was never a Gretchen fan and her final collection on Project Runway did not impress me. Can't wait to see what Mondo comes up with in the future.
Can't believe I'm admitting this but hubby and I went see Jackass 3D last week--everyone needs a good laugh sometimes right!? Well take a bit of advice from me: Skip it--it was sooooo gross!

When my sister + fiance were in town, my mom and I helped them with their wedding registry. It was as much fun as when hubby and I did it 4 years ago! My favorite part was helping them pick out china. There are so many pretty patterns, I love to mix and match them. I'll share her pattern soon.
Every few months, I feel the need to update my itunes with some new music. Today's purchase included: Kings of Leon, Bruno Mars and Jack Johnson. Have any tune suggestions for me?
I really, really, really want this skirt. It is so chic with the gray tights!

In other fashion news, I have to confess I'm super jealous of you guys that live near an H&M. Their collaboration with Lanvin is amazing and affordable!
Have you checked out Ez's latest creation:Gifted? SWOON!
I love this time of year as catalogs start filling my mailbox--you can always find great inspiration in these free tomes.
Speaking of mail: I can't wait til Anthology & Holiday with Matthew Mead arrive. Have you ordered copies?
There are so many beautiful calendars already out for 2011. Have you picked yours yet? I can't narrow it down...I'm thinking of making my own. Thoughts?

Want to play along with 13 on Thursday? Leave your link in the comments--I'd love to read!

Elf Cards

noreply@blogger.com (Lindsey Michelle) — Thu, 04 Nov 2010 04:58:00 +0000

Just wanted to share some exciting news...my elf cards are being printed as we speak! That means you, sweet readers, will be able to share some holiday jollies through the mail this year. I designed the cards in a large 5.5" x 8.5" when folded size to show off the happy friends and to give you plenty of room to send holiday wishes.

These cuties will be in my shop early next week so I thought I'd give you guys a heads up in case you are already deciding on your Christmas cards. If you want to be notified when the cards are ready for purchase please leave a comment with your email addy or shoot me a message at lindseysgreatfull at gmail dot com.

Real Deal: Real Simple

noreply@blogger.com (Lindsey Michelle) — Tue, 02 Nov 2010 22:05:00 +0000

So last week several of you mentioned Real Simple was one of your favorite magazines. It is my fave too! I was SO excited when I visited Amazon and found that subscriptions were on sale for $10 a year! My subscription just ended so I scooped one up before the deal expired tomorrow. Just thought I'd share for all of you RS lovers and for those in need of a great + inexpensive gift.

Don't forget to...

noreply@blogger.com (Lindsey Michelle) — Tue, 02 Nov 2010 12:19:00 +0000

Glam Gingerbread

noreply@blogger.com (Lindsey Michelle) — Mon, 01 Nov 2010 07:45:00 +0000

As I mentioned...I'm so ready for the holidays this year. Can't wait to decorate, enjoy cold weather with a cup of hot cocoa and of course decorate gingerbread houses. My hubby and I have done our fair share of gingerbread houses--all via the simple kits found at any store. I'm thinking this year it would be really, really fun to take things up a notch with the Gingerhaus kits from Sur La Table. I'd love to make an entire village.

So do you have any holiday traditions that you are looking forward to?

13 on Thursday

noreply@blogger.com (Lindsey Michelle) — Thu, 28 Oct 2010 12:30:00 +0000

I'm totally piggybacking off of my friend Cyndi. I love her 13 on Thursdays and have looked forward to them since she started the series. So because imitation is the sincerest form of flattery I've decided to jump aboard. So here we go...

Have you been watching Project Runway this season? Who are you pulling for? I'm a member of "Team Mondo" and I'm hoping he wins tonight. His use of patterns just makes me happy.
I am totally hooked on apples this fall (and every fall really). Honeycrisp and Pink Ladies are my favorites. I bought the juiciest, yummiest Honeycrisps at Fresh Market yesterday but was shocked at the price--4 apples cost me over $9, yowza! At least they are healthy and oh so good.
I haven't had one single Starbucks Pumpkin Spice Latte yet. This has got to be some sort of record for me. To make it even more shocking we had several weeks of awesome fall weather and I still didn't indulge. It has been warm (okay hot) however for a couple weeks so I'm promising myself on the first cool day I'm heading over to 'bucks to grab my favorite drink.
We went shopping for my sister's wedding dress and she found the most amazing dress. And did I mention she is gorgeous!? I'm so excited for her and can't wait to share more wedding details with you guys later on. (P.S. I've always want to commission Brooklit to do a wedding dress drawing for me.)
Also on the wedding front, we've narrowed down bridesmaids dresses and I'm actually loving the options. She has a few favorites from The Dessy Group (one of my new sponsors) to decide between and I'd honestly be happy with any of them. No crazy styles a la "27 Dresses."
In even more wedding news my buddy Krista from The BSP got engaged yesterday and I'm so incredibly happy for her. Drop by and leave her some love here. She is such an incredible writer, I tear up on her blog regularly--just warning you!
I tried carving a pumpkin for the first time in a looooong time on Sunday. It was an epic failure. Having taken sculpture classes in college I thought I'd be above beginner level--wrong. The Martha Stewart template I downloaded was a total bust. On the bright side, I used this recipe (which I edited a lot) to make some yummy roasted pumpkins seeds albeit a bit pricey pumpkin seeds.
I was thinking of offering Christmas cards featuring these photos. Yay or nay?
I love the fall but for some reason this year I am eager for Christmastime to arrive. It is my favorite time of year and for some reason I'm even more excited for it to arrive.
Looking forward to sharing really fun Halloween treat for my sweetie. I'll share pics tomorrow.
I think I picked out a color to paint our hallway (which would be another item off the list). Do you think gray is too dark for a hallway? I plan to line the wall with old, black and white family photos.
Are you dressing up for Halloween? I got a funky little hat that is kind of witchlike (similar to this)l. I also bought some funny gloves and orange + black striped tights that I think I'll pair with a solid black skirt + top just to be festive.
What's your favorite Halloween candy? This year I only bought candy I didn't like for trick-or-treaters and I have not eaten one.single.piece. Quite the caloric victory! :-)

So this has been the first 13 on Thursday.
Wanna play? I'd love to read yours...post a link in the comments if you do.

Little Gold Rush

noreply@blogger.com (Lindsey Michelle) — Tue, 26 Oct 2010 13:04:00 +0000

When I was a child, we went to Colorado often during summer vacation. We always stayed in a really small town where other travelers were few and far between. In between horse-back riding, treks up the mountains, and fishing trips we would head "into town" to check out the local shops. Our first stop was always the old-fashioned ice-cream shop that served up the best cones we'd ever tasted. Afterward my sister and I would always convince our parents to head over to one of many "rock shops."

These shops were filled from floor to ceiling with every imaginable stone, mineral, geode and boulder--most of which were local. My sister and I would carefully choose sparkling crystals, vibrant stones and magical geodes as souvenirs to take home. Among my most prized acquisitions were rocks speckled with flakes of real gold and little jars of gold dust that glistened in the sunlight. These precious metal minis made us feel as though we were leaving with true riches!

Imagine my delight when I stumbled upon Dollybird's Lil Gold Rush ring yesterday. Small remnants of golden quartz remind me of the treasures of my youth while providing a textural light show. I love the organic beauty and think this is the perfect grown-up version of my young obsession.