Springfield Castle {A Vacation}

Did you know you can rent an Irish castle?! Let's daydream for a minute, shall we?

Let's go here.

I think I'll start my day with some quite, alone time in this meadow.

Then I'll enjoy some breakfast at this stately table with the morning light coming in.

In the afternoon I think I'll take a leisurely stroll with my husband down this lovely lane.

After we have gone out on the town and hit a local pub (just for the food and the company, of course), I'd love to grab a book and snuggle up to read in front of this fire.

And at the end of my perfectly relaxing day, I'll crash on this beautiful bed. Don't worry, there are many more rooms. I just thought I'd indulge in a bit of pink since I don't get to decorate with it at home. :)

This is the Springfield Castle. To find out more information, and for all photo credits go here.

I think I have forgotten how to blog. Tonight I started typing a post and it came out all...wrong. I don't know. I'm really sorry I haven't been blogging much (Kaitlin;) ). My head has not been in it. Where has my head been? you might ask. It's been all on me. 

Ya, ya, I know that sounds vain. I'm sorry. What I mean is this: over the past few years I've done a lot of thinking about my life and what I want to do and who I am and all that stuff. I guess that comes with the territory when you're in your early 20's (and slowly approaching your mid-20's, eep!) I feel like all of that is finally beginning to come to a head. I feel like I'm holding my breath and the things I've been looking for are just around the corner. I don't know if that corner is in next week, or next year, but I do feel like I'm finally moving towards it. 

I'm getting to a point where I am learning how to take actual steps towards answering these questions for myself, where before I had no idea where to even start. I know I've mentioned my love of (obsession with?) goals and lists, so I've been doing a lot of that (haha). I've also been realizing that I need to let go of some things that I want to be interested in, but am not. For that reason, I'm going to be shutting the other blog I started. It was a fun experiment, and a variation of something I've always wanted to try. However, I realized (as I was dreading working on it) that I didn't really enjoy it at all. It was fun at first, but it had become a chore. So I'm shutting it down. Maybe I will still do some of the posts I was doing there, here, but we'll just see!

The way I live my life has really been on my mind lately.

I don't want to get to the end of my life and find I lived just the length of it. I want to have lived the width of it as well. -Diane Ackerman

That quote has really been bugging me lately. And even more, the life of Billy Hornsby, a pastor and great leader at my church. I watched his memorial service online the other night and bawled like a baby. He left such a great legacy. I really admire him and join with many others all over the nation (and the world!) in saying that he has touched my life. His legacy has left behind a challenge to live life fully and to live life well. 

When my life comes to a close, I want to look back and be happy with the what I've lived, instead of wishing that I had done more. I don't want to wish I had more time. I want to have something I could write memoirs about if I wanted to. And so the challenge begins now: what can I do to make sure that I am not wasting my life? How can I squeeze everything out of my short time here? That is what has been consuming my mind lately and that is my new focus.

What do you do to make sure you're living your life to the fullest?

Leap Year {An Outfit}

When I started this blog, I thought it might be fun to have a regular style post. "How hard could it be to style and outfit once a month?" I asked myself. Little did I know that either a.) it is actually not as easy as it looks/sounds or b.) I do NOT have the gift for it.

Regardless of the obstacles, I was still pretty determined to make this styling thing work for me so I decided to give myself a little boost: styling an outfit off of an already existing picture. Even more in particular, I thought it would be fun to do a picture from a movie soooooo....

{via}

Being March, I thought it would be fun to choose an Irish centered movie. (Are you sensing a theme?) This is a still from the movie "Leap Year." I went through a pretty intense Amy Adams phase, which was the main reason I saw this movie when it came out. It's pretty cute. Nothing extravagant, but pretty cute.

Of course, anything set in Ireland has got to have lots of green and I quite love the intense greens along the road in this picture. Stunning.

Here is something I would probably wear on a day out with my husband: comfy and casual.

1. A floral shirt from Forever 21 to start us off
   
2. A jewel green cardi from Urban Outfitters, worn open (don't wanna get pinched on St. Patty's Day now, do we?)
   
3. Some gray skinny jeans from J. Crew
   
4. Red peep toe heels also from J. Crew, for a little pop of color down by the toes
   
5. A brown hobo bag from (surprise!) J. Crew again (at this point, I was just on a J. Crew binge)
   
6. A lovely daisy brooch from Etsy
   
7. The Rainkissed Leaves scent from Bath and Body Works (I love this scent but B&B doesn't sell it any more =( You can still find it online other places though.)
8. And some red hair dye from Loreal to top it off! (just kidding)

Be gentle, this is my first time. For all I know, this outfit would look terrible actually put on!

Read

One of my resolutions this year was to read more. I decided, in order for that resolution to be measurable, I would read a minimum of one book a month. (That actually makes me laugh because "one book a month" would have been ridiculously easy for me once upon a time.) (And it actually makes me cringe because now it is a challenge. Sigh.) Anyway, January I did really awesome with it. I think I read 7 books. Of course, that was probably because I gave up TV for almost the whole month. Curse you evil TV! Feburary I didn't read one single book. Oops.

This month, however, I am on my second book. The first book I read was It Sucked and then I Cried by blogger Heather Armstrong.

It chronicles her journey through pregnancy and post partum depression. I may have mentioned this before, but reading about pregnancy fascinates me. Both my brother and I were adopted so, although I knew where babies come from, I never really learned that much about pregnancy. It is so interesting to me get different perspectives on it. Also, since depression is something I have struggled with, I was highly interested to read the account of someone who has struggled with depression as well, especially in that context.

  

But the book I really want to talk about is the book I'm reading now: The Happiness Project by Gretchen Rubin.

It was suggested to me by a friend and is right up my ally. The basic premise of the book is a woman who takes a year to increase the happiness in her life. Each month she focus on a different area (Marriage, Finances, Work ect.) and sets daily goals for herself. This book is a good fit for me for two reasons: I love goal setting (have I mentioned that before?) and I want to change my life. The only thing I don't like about this book is that it is a little clinical for me. I was expecting more of a lighthearted, fun approach to changing ones life. Instead, she is very methodical with lots of research and (sometimes) boring (my opinion) approaches to improving her happiness. Still, I think I might try out a Happiness Project of my own and do it my own way.

All for now. What are you reading lately?

Lucky You

• This Lucky Elephant necklace is adorable.
• A crocheted St. Patrick's Day top hat and tie? Of course!
• Make a little wish with this bronze wishbone necklace.
• That is actually a real four leaf clover in that vial necklace. Love.
• The leprechaun bookmark was a must add.
• I would actually totally wear that amazing leprechaun robot necklace.
• What's your lucky number? You can get this ring customized with it!
• Too cute: vintage St. Patty's Day cards you can print yourself!
• This iPad lucky horse shoe vinyl sticker just made me laugh.

**All these items were found at Etsy.com. Go there to search for more amazing treasures!**

Ye Olde Irish Ballad

When I was young, my dad used to sing me traditional Irish ballads from a little paper songbook. Nope, still not Irish, that's just the way my dad is. My favorite was "Molly Malone" and that, coupled with March being the month of St. Patrick's Day (of course) is what inspired this playlist. Hit play, do a little jig and let your inner "Irish" out!

Sly Little Fox {A Baby Shower}

I'm guessing you're expecting me to feature a St. Patrick's Day party. Sorry to disappoint. I will admit that was my original plan. I will even admit to searching the heck outa google to find one that I liked. Alas, no such party caught my fancy. So instead, I choose to feature one of my favorite parties I have stumbled upon in my internet wanderings.

Sly Little Fox {A Baby Shower}

Let's start with a few of my favorite pictures:

Love the mask, and this picture of it over the belly is just perfect.

These little mushrooms are made out of cheese and tomatoes. I hate it when there is nothing but sweets at a party, I need something non-sweet thrown into the mix. Plus isn't the little fox just adorable wandering through his mushroom forest?

I love the bunting. The little fox picture is actually what first drew me to this party. 

I am loving all ginger cookies lately and these look like they would be quite tasty with some tea.

Adorable (and quite easy looking) DIY lapel pins as favors.

There are several things I like about this party:

• It is unique
• I have a thing for forest animals (especially foxes!)
• It would work for a boy or a girl (or a surprise baby!)

I just love it. If you'd like to see the rest of the party go here.

Party via asubtlerevelry.com

Lucky {Some Ideas}

Just a few ideas for you to make your own luck this month:

1. Stand up for yourself.
2. Ask questions.
3. Understand your personal core values, and don't compromise them.
4. Love yourself.
5. Think positive
6. Be prepared to make changes and be flexible.
7. Celebrate small victories.
8. Look for the best in every situation.
9. Follow your instincts.
10. Search for a mentor.
11. Do your best, and don't make excuses.
12. Choose friends who are confident in themselves and make you feel good about yourself too.
13. Evaluate, so you can make improvements next time.
14. Smile. Even when you don't feel like it.
15. Focus on what you can do instead of what you can’t.
16. Relax. Take a deep breath.
17. Play to your strengths.
18. Stay active, Exercise.
19. Help others.
20. Stop looking back.
21. Dress the part.
22. Make goals. (Goals should be attainable, and measurable.)
23. Compliment other people.
24. Implement good habits.
25. Care less about what others think of you.
26. Look people in the eye.
27. Speak up. Be heard.
28. When sitting, sit up straight.
29. Own a confident walk.
30. Take risks.
31. Drink water. A lot.
    
32. Make a decision, stick with it.
33. Don't waste opportunities.
34. Make connections. Get to know as many people as you can.
35. Don't leave things open-ended: conversations, projects, relationships--tie 'em up.
36. Finish well.
37. Drop friends who make you feel less about yourself.
38. Always try to see all sides.
39. Have a budget.
40. Let things go.

***I actually found the bones of this list at little chief honeybee but changed a lot of things and made it my own. Still, I like to give credit where credit is due.

A Garden

I've been obsessed with gardens lately. I blame this:

There were some FANTASTIC photos from March's issue of Martha Stewart Living (yes, I have a subscription) that were so inspiring!

 

 

The photos above are from the garden shown below (please excuse the below picture as I had to take a picture of it since our scanner is not working).

O this plan inspires me so much. Someday...

The two pictures here are from a community garden. What a great idea!

I got sick of feeling like I had to wait for a house to have a garden of my own so I made one on our back porch!

Tulips and Hyacinthe.

Herbs (basil, rosemary, oregano and mint)

Strawberries

 

 

Who says you have to wait to make your dreams come true? Don't wait.

Thankful Thursday

This Thursday I'm thankful for:

My little garden.............

...................& being able to run.

Before You Say I Do...

My Top 10 Questions to Ask Yourself Before Saying "Yes":

1. Is he good-lookin?

I'm sorry if that sounds shallow. But let's be honest: do you really want to spend the rest of your life with someone you're not attracted to? I mean, really? 'Cuz guess what? If you want a good marriage, you're going to be doing married things and you're gonna wanna like to look at your honey. Plus, chances are things aren't going to get better with time, if you know what I mean. Sure, personality and common interests and all that are important too. But if you can't look at the person you're talking to, then you aren't going to get much of the other stuff. Just sayin'.

2. Does he believe the same things you do?

I'm not just talking about your spiritual beliefs although is MUY IMPORTANTE. I'm talking your other beliefs too. Do you have strong political views? Are you an environmentalist? Do you believe sugar is of the devil? Are you a vegetarian? Think of your core values. What is important to you? If he doesn't share your values, it could cause confusion or even big issues. If you don't understand or value each others' values then you wont understand why the other person values them either.

3. Does he want kids? How many?

This is going to come up someday. And if you're not on the same page...Uh oh...

4. How does he treat his family?

This is important. Here's why: his family is who he is most comfortable around. He's been with them his whole life! If he gets along well with his family, that's good. If he doesn't, you're gonna want to know that too. 'Cuz guess what? If you marry him, YOU will become his family.

5. Does he have a good job (or a job at all)?

Do I really have to add anything to this? A man feels like a man when he can provide for his family. If he can't or doesn't, issues may arise. Also, do you want to be the main provider for your family? There is no right or wrong answer to this question. This is strictly about how you feel about it. Just make sure the job situation is something you consider.

6. Can you be completely comfortable around him?

I'm not asking if you feel okay being gross around him (although, those times will probably come too). Ask yourself if you're being your true self with him. Do you hide your love for sci-fi? Do you never let him see you without makeup? If you can't be comfortable with your man, one of two things will end up happening: either things will blow up when he finally meets the real you, or you will spend your life being miserable because you can't be who you are. Here's a hint: neither option is a good one. Be yourself.

7. Does he make you feel special?

 Does he still do romantic things for you? Do you still have special date nights? Some women seem to think that these things will come after they get married. DON'T BE DECEIVED! Marriage is hard work! If the romance isn't kept alive before you say "I do" it will quickly fizzle out and die after the honeymoon. Because being married isn't the cure for lack of romance. Putting a ring on a man's finger doesn't make him a Romeo. Honestly, things often cool down after the wedding and it takes even more work to keep things romantic. 

8. Does he serve you?

Does he put you first? Please don't take this as a diva license. A husband is not a genie, sent to fill your every whim. But if you're going to be married, you want a man who makes you his priority. (By the way, you've got to prioritize and serve him right back!) Watch to see if he lets you choose the movies every now and then. See if he really listens to you. You'll be able to tell if he is putting you first or only thinking about himself.

9. Do you like his friends?

You know that saying, "Show me your friends and I'll show you your future?" It's true. Besides, not only do you "marry the family" you also sometimes "marry the friends." Basically I'm saying, when you join your life to someone else, you get the whole package. Let's be real, he may have one or two oddball friends that you don't like. That's not a deal breaker. But say you don't really like any of his friends. Or say him and his friends enjoy things and activities that you don't like/agree with. You're going to get all that when you tie the knot. Marriage isn't a buffet where you can pick and choose the pieces of someone's life that you want. So make sure you like what you ordered.

10. What don't you like about him?

Be honest with yourself. I know that love makes people blind and all that. And I'm not saying go looking for his flaws. But if you see something you don't like, don't ignore it and hope that it will go away after the wedding. It wont. In fact, it will probably be even more annoying to you than it is now. Instead, ask yourself, "Is this something we can discuss and work out?" and if not, "Is this something I can get used to?" If the answer is no, then you might want to reconsider.

Tuesday Twitterpated

This week I'm loving:

This cluster of sites. (All connected!)



For those headed down the aisle.



For the newly-wed

For the pregnant. {Nope, not me}



Yes, I've been spending nearly all my time today on those two sites. Part of that is because they are just so darn cute! And part of it it because they are awesome. I made the two tickers at the bottom of this blog using these sites. I'm sorry, I haven't found much other cute stuff because of my lurking. Check 'em out and enjoy!

An Irish Tradition

Did you know that the traditional meal for St. Patrick's Day is corned beef and cabbage? When I was growing up we had it almost every St. Patrick's Day, with some yummy Irish soda bread. Well that, and possibly green pancakes and green milk. Ya we were awesome. I just feel sorry for you that you weren't there. ;)

Anyway, can you guess what's coming next? Yup! In the spirit of St. Patty...I thought I'd give you some recipes for the above mentioned yummy dinner!

Corned Beef and Cabbage

• 3 pounds corned beef brisket with spice packet
• 10 small red potatoes
• 5 carrots, peeled and cut into 3-inch pieces
• 1 large head cabbage, cut into small wedges

1. Place corned beef in large pot or Dutch oven and cover with water. Add the spice packet that came with the corned beef. Cover pot and bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Simmer approximately 50 minutes per pound or until tender.
2. Add whole potatoes and carrots, and cook until the vegetables are almost tender. Add cabbage and cook for 15 more minutes. Remove meat and let rest 15 minutes.
3. Place vegetables in a bowl and cover. Add as much broth (cooking liquid reserved in the Dutch oven or large pot) as you want. Slice meat across the grain.

Irish Soda Bread

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 4 tablespoons white sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup margarine, softened
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 egg
• 1/4 cup butter, melted
• 1/4 cup buttermilk

1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). Lightly grease a large baking sheet.
2. In a large bowl, mix together flour, sugar, baking soda, baking powder, salt and margarine. Stir in 1 cup of buttermilk and egg. Turn dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead slightly. Form dough into a round and place on prepared baking sheet. In a small bowl, combine melted butter with 1/4 cup buttermilk; brush loaf with this mixture. Use a sharp knife to cut an 'X' into the top of the loaf.
3. Bake in preheated oven for 45 to 50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the loaf comes out clean, about 30 to 50 minutes. You may continue to brush the loaf with the butter mixture while it bakes.

Green Milk

{via}

• Glass of milk
• a few drops of green food coloring

1. Mix together

I know that corned beef and cabbage doesn't sound all that appealing to a lot of people. But maybe this year, give it a try. And the Irish soda bread is really good, I promise. :)


Corned Beef Recipe {via}
Irish Soda Bread Recipe {via}
Green Milk Recipe via my brain.

Altoid Tin Clock {A Project}

Let's start with something fairly easy, shall we? This adorable little clock, made out of an Altoids tin, is something I've wanted to try for a while now. I actually did buy the clock parts for it but they were a bit big for the tin. I'm hoping I can figure out the tutorial on my own to incorporate the parts that I've already bought. If that happens, then I'll update with my version!

For now, please visit Desing*Sponge for this tutorial.


If you make it, send me a link or picture! I'd love to see the different versions people come up with!