kolo album

after our first official family photoshoot, i knew i wanted to display the candids on their own, in a separate special book. as fate would have it, about a month ago, i was delighted when the kolo company kindly sent me a few albums and crafting supplies for my personal review. i was happy to oblige. in fact, i was ecstatic. i've seen their products and beautiful books before, but never put them to use.

for those of us who don't scrapbook, this is the answer to our picture album prayers. i am not only impressed with the quality craftsmanship, but the divine cloth covers, clean lines and simplistic design. this company knows, it's all about the photographs. their photo books showcase snapshots beautifully, giving the photographer credit for all their appeal. the one thing you might have to resist is the temptation to slip them back into plastic wrap, putting them high on a shelf, in fear of fingerprints. my goal is to keep recent photo books out in the open, available for real life use. just like my grandmother's dishes. because no one loves paging through real picture books more than children. (and i love remembering grandma june three square meals a day, everyday.)

here is a glimpse of how i put the petite noci album to use. just in time for a heartfelt father's day gift for dan. it's the perfect size for a brag book. meaning, the next business trip he goes on, i will slip it into his briefcase, ala 1954.



am looking forward to putting a larger kolo photo album together celebrating benji's first year. thank you, kolo, for major motivation.

recent designs

a glance inside my latest design project, the book i previously mentioned. the European stamps and currency, Nazi ephemera and antique postcards create a unique feel throughout the pages. the layout & fonts are finally congealing, coming to and becoming a real book. i love when that happens. all it took was a little coaxing.


will be working on it all week long; this baby is headed for the press and bindery very soon. wish me luck.

weekend tell all

the big annual ms bike ride took place on saturday. it was a wonderful quick roadtrip, a reunion of sorts. saturday was laid back with lots of pedaling, swimming, strolling, naps in the shade, cousins frolicking and celebrations at the finish line. the guys made us proud, am sad i didn't get a photo of all the riders. still, i took plenty of pictures...

heading out. idaho has the most gorgeous skies i've ever met. never before have i noticed clouds the way i do now that i live here, in a mountainless region where the sky goes on forever. on our way to utah, thick grey clouds rolled in and we encountered a hail storm like none other. hail pebbles pounded the windshield. sheets of rain sopping the streets. we survived it and so did the bike, thank goodness.


all strapped in. am feeling lucky my boy loves his car seat, am crossing my fingers my li'l adventurer will always love to travel. benji slept through the whole eventful thunderstorm and woke up when we arrived, just in time to pal around with seven of his cousins.


brothers + cousins. these babies are exactly one year + one day apart. james has no idea how much he will be idolized in a few years. (and those big beautiful brown eyes? yeah, they are a family trait.)


anne. she is the coolest. she is my go-to for chit chat, cartwheel contests, hollywood gossip, babysitting and vicariously living high school years all over again. of course she is much more cool, smart, athletic, dependable and darling than i ever was. still, i like to think we are about the same age. i have no qualms about bringing up david archuleta or zac efron in her presence. (when she's around, i always think of the book annie bananie. if you haven't memorized this from reading it over and over again, you really really really ought to.)


the line up. dan's dad was about to roll in, causing much excited commotion. we all lined up ready to congratulate the oldest (and arguably the toughest) member of the team.


live strong. lookin' sleek and sporty is half the battle. way to go!


my favorite. a classic shot of my happy boy. i can't get enough of him, he's at such a fun stage. (after biking 100 miles, the guys slipped their flipflops on, relaxed in camping chairs, drank cold mountain dews, while easily having enough energy left to play with the kids. now that is what i call charming.)


love love love. the children frolicking in the shade + sunshine was about my favorite thing of the whole day. lounging and wrestling and running about tirelessly.


true to form. and of course, my mother-in-law remembered to pack a picnic, a skill she has perfected. (somehow she managed to keep it cool and lovely til the ride was all over, notice the mint garnish. fresh from her backyard. she is effortlessly thoughtful and fabulous. she amazes me.)


essence of summer. all this bundled up happy energy? provided by the free all you can eat rainbow sno-cones. porter is the sweetest almost seven year old i've ever met.


not pictured. one of my weekend highlights was meeting deidra. she boosted my ego about a billion notches when she recognized me from reading my blog and said hello! she was fantastically sweet and friendly. i'd like to think all my fans are so awesome. i was on cloud nine, feeling like a big fancy wee bit of a celebrity. we just happened to be strolling around the same farmer's market saturday morning. i was standing in line for a glass of the best fresh-squeezed lemonade on the planet. (if you live in cache valley i highly recommend the hip mama's lemonade stand; saturdays at the park.) sweet sour sugary lemon love goodness all shaken and stirred and freshly squozen. you can't beat that.

a thousand thank yous for your donations to the ms society, especially in this time where money is tight for so many. we will continue to fundraise throughout the summer months. a link to donate to a good cause will hold it's spot on my blog sidebar until autumn. we very much appreciate your support. xo.

charmed, i'm sure

and the lovely charm necklace goes to miss LeniStav. congrats. thanks for playing along last week. i loved reading your charming comments. to those of you still hankering for a pretty prize, there will be two giveaways this week. seriously good ones. i can't wait to ring in july with a bang. stay tuned.



mm. yes, you summed it up quite nicely, leni.

beauty tips 04

before this month's panel series is over, i had to inquire about the meaning of beauty. of course, beauty is in the eye of the beholder, but what does that really mean? i went ahead and asked the experts their opinion. what does it take to be a true beauty? when do you feel the prettiest? bonus. anything else you'd like to mention on the topic? again, they wowed me with their phenomenal answers. thank you, beauty panelists. i loved reading your advice and getting all your secrets on looking oh so fab.



KELLY P.
I think all it takes to be a true beauty is a smile. Every time I've seen someone smile, it instantly makes them prettier. It's like a law of nature. I don't know if there is some scientific reason but I definitely think I look the best in the morning right when I wake up. My skin tone appears more even and my features look nice and soft. Having bed head gives my hair added volume and often I hesitate to brush it. If anyone could do some experiments and figure out how to make that relaxed, just-woke-up look last all day... you would be my hero.

bonus: I am a J.Crew junkie and one of my favorite things about the brand is their catalogs. Besides the beautiful clothes they also provide amazing inspiration for make-up, styling, outfits, and photography. J.Crew releases a new catalog each month and these are a fabulous FREE resource. I've saved them and even though the clothes are no longer in stores, the classic looks never go out of style.

ALANA S.
True beauty is exactly that—natural, real...true. For the most part, I think fake is out: fake nails, fake tan, fake Louis Vuitton. But if you must, spritz on bronzer moderately and go easy on the accessories, so at least your look is subtle. If you must have extensions after a too-short hair cut or your eyelashes just aren't up to snuff, make people do a double take and wonder, "are they or aren't they?" Effortless beauty has much more of a wow factor than going all out. If you go for glossy red lips, scrimp on the smokey eye make-up. Don't look like you’re at a red carpet affair if your just going to the local state fair. It's much better to go understated than to look like you’re trying too hard.

SUMMER H.
i feel my prettiest when my husband tells me so. usually that's when i have unstyled hair, possibly a ponytail, and no makeup. he loves the natural look. and i love when he likes what he sees.

bonus: i think the ultimate beauty is found inside, rather than out. a selfless attitude and a sweet demeanor won't fade out like my highlights.

JAMIE ANNE C.
Being bold. Being brave. Following your heart. Some killer heels, fab shades, my 5 must-haves (plus a few more!) make the journey much more fun though!

bonus: My personal mantra has always been to look my best. I find that when I look my best, I feel my best. When I feel my best, I act my best. When I act my best, I am my personal best. Now hold on one hot second…this in no way/shape/form means going all out with your fab self all of the time. That’s just plain silly. What it does mean is that you should always feel comfortable with yourself, given the situation at hand (whether it’s in a party dress, skinny jeans, a bikini on the beach, or holey sweats for a girls night out). Just be comfortable and be yourself.

ELIZABETH W.
I feel my prettiest when I have enough time to get ready and don't feel rushed. Punctuality is a huuuuge value of mine, so I make an effort to overestimate how much time I'll spend getting dressed and doing my makeup. The result is that I don't have any moments where I think, "Oh, I don't like the way my eyeshadow looks...but I don't have time to change it. Hopefully nobody will notice." In truth, nobody WILL notice, but it'll be in the back of my mind for the rest of the evening.

I also feel pretty when my skin is looking good. Since I almost always have at least one blemish, this is harder than it sounds...but making an effort to care for my complexion helps me to feel more confident about it, even when I'm breaking out. I try to take the time to find masks and creams that smell nice and leave my face feeling its best.

bonus: I think a lot of women are nervous about trying shimmery makeup. I get it. It can be scary to stare down into an eyeshadow pot and feel like you're about to slap glitter all over your face. But sparkle, in my opinion, is a vital part of looking fresh and healthy. My advice to gals who don't know how to use shimmery makeup is to start with the eyes. Pick a neutral gold or peach shade that's got some slight pearliness to it - no need to get anything with glitter just yet - and apply it to the whole lid, up to the brow bone. Apply a little bit to the inner corners of the eye, too. When the light catches your eyes, they'll glow.

I know so many beautiful women, and the common thread among all of them is that they know how to play up their best features. If you have great skin, try doing all neutral, shimmery colors on your eyes, cheeks, and lips and let your complexion be the centerpiece of your look. If your eyes are huge and gorgeous, play them up with eyeliner, lots of mascara, and a shimmery white highlighter dabbed in the inner-corners and on your brow bone. If your skin is a beautiful, deep shade of ebony or caramel, try experimenting with pops of bright color to accentuate your natural skin tone. If your lips are full and pouty, dab a tiny bit of white, sparkly eyeshadow on the very top of your cupid's bow and follow with a shiny lipgloss. If you have defined, strong cheekbones, highlight them with a shimmery powder or blush. Go with your what you have!

COURTNEY M.
biggest two crucial things: i feel prettiest when i'm confident and comfortable. wearing a sweet pair of super-trendy wedges that you're not able to walk in will only take your mind off of your awesomeness and make you focus on your blisters. rock what you love; be comfortable and confident with it and the rest will come naturally!

ALLISON C.
I feel prettiest after I've spent a day at the beach in the sun with my kids. I spend the day being athletic with them, romping in the sand and surf, collecting shells and making sand castles, lying in the sun with a good magazine {read: totally trashy} or a beach read and some ice cold lemon sparkling water from Trader Joe's. sigh. When the day is over and I get showered and ready to go out for the night, it doesn't even matter what I'm wearing, I always feel beautiful. I don't know what it is; maybe the glow of a good day at the beach, time spent with my family, doing something so fun for myself. Whatever the combination, I always feel sexy after a day at the beach. So, go figure that I live in Utah with no beach!

A true beauty really comes from an inner confidence. An ability to connect with people on a real, and not superficial level. Someone who knows what they want but doesn't stomp on others to get to it. I can think of a lot of women I think are beautiful, and it seems irrelevant whether or not they have physical beauty, it depends how they live their life and how they make others in their space feel while they're in it.

ERICA E.
I think a true beauty is someone who is honest and real. I admire woman who stand up for what they believe in and for what they want, all the while being kind, caring and gracious. It doesn’t matter what you have on or what your hair looks like; it is what is in your heart that matters! I feel the prettiest when I am with my husband. I feel like in his eyes, I am the cat’s meow. Whether I am all done up for a date night or if I have just woken up and am in my jammies - I feel the prettiest when I am around him. He has a way of making me always feel good about myself.

bonus: I used to always buy cheap jeans. It wasn’t until I was dating my husband that he introduced me to designer jeans. I always used to say, “I will never ever spend that much on a pair of jeans!” But come to find out, the designer jeans (sevens, joes, paper denim, true religion, rockin’ republic, citizen) are the jeans I wear the most because they always fit the best and make me feel good. I realized that I would buy cheap jeans, wear them a couple times and they were stretched out in all the wrong places, didn’t wash well and made me feel frumpy after a couple pairs. I would end up spending so much money on jeans I would only wear a couple times and then I was unsatisfied with them and wouldn’t want to wear them. I so much rather save my money and spend it a great pair of jeans I will wear and wear because I feel good in them and they always fit. Plus, if you use a Microdermabrasion kit once a week your face will thank you later!

EMILY Y.
True beauty.... I think someone who is friendly and genuine. You know if the person you are talking to is actually being kind, or putting on a show. If someone is being kind and sincere, they could go from being scary looking, to immediately beautiful. A happy face turns any ugly one, beautiful. It also helps to have the least amount of make-up on, and still look gorgeous..can you tell I love natural? I feel my best, when my hair is clean...I mean, right out of the shower clean, and voluptuous. When I have some great earrings in, my skin is naturally a bit tan, my clothes fit well, and my make-up looks natural.

HANNAH C.
I have said it before, but nothing is more beautiful than a confident woman. Learn to love the way you look. I feel the prettiest when I stop comparing myself to others. It is just a bad practice to get into. We are all so different and beautiful in our own way, so wishing for something we aren't is wasting time that we could be confident and happy with ourselves. I think a true beauty cares enough about herself to take care of her body. Eating healthy food, drinking enough water and exercising always makes me feel like my body, skin, eyes and hair are healthier and more beautiful. Every morning, I get dressed and do my hair even though I plan on staying home. I think it is important to make myself feel beautiful everyday.

SARAH H.
I feel prettiest when I feel confident and don’t care what other people think. No matter how cute I really look, if I don’t feel confident with myself then I just feel ugly. I try to not compare myself to others and just be happy with the way I am.

CHELSEY B.
I feel my prettiest when I can let loose! No make-up, wet hair and pajamas! I love the feeling of being clean and not covered in make-up... although I love makeup it feels GREAT to not wear it sometimes! And lucky me, my husband thinks I look cutest then too!

bonus: One tip I received and have always considered with makeup is "Less is more", it's so true. As for hair... lately I feel you should embrace what you naturally have, color and texture.
Also... I like to sometimes splurge on nice items but if it's really trendy, I search for bargains! Then when it's out of style the next year I don't have to feel so bad about donating the items to Good Will! And speaking of thrift stores... they're my favorite! I just found a FAB (Handmade) blue pleated skirt that I wear high on my waist with a velvet belt and a plain white tee on top... I get so many compliments and people asking me where I got my skirt! It's so fun re-fashioning a vintage item into a stylish new statement piece! Be creative!

TARYN L.
i feel prettiest when i am tan, happy, and when i am with justin, my new husband.


thank you, beautiful ladies. i appreciate your input. you have given me a lot to think about and a long list of new exciting beauty products to try.

organizing workbook

if you like Real Simple magazine, chances are, you'll really enjoy this personal workbook. it was written by an organization expert (wow, what a title). it's a fun read with insightful ideas and fantastic photos tucked here and there. neat freaks will love its streamlined layout; complete with pristine lists, bulleted tips and personal questionnaires. since checking it out from the library, i've organized my purse, cleared off my bedside table and planned a few outings with friends. i like that this book not only details efficient to-do lists, closets and drawers but also touches on organizing real life; tips like getting out the door on time and making efforts to be with friends who matter most.



check it out. The Personal Organizing Workbook solutions for a simpler, easier life by Meryl Starr. bonus. visit thinkbakery.com for more gettin' it done ideas.

giveaway: charm necklace

dindi is a darling shop. like all shops from Europe, its appeal comes from the quaint & special pieces inside. lets just say it, dindi's charms are charming. the silver sentiments speak for themselves. when it comes to jewelry, i like to wear simple, delicate & unique. i've never seen a volkswagen bus nor an egg beater hanging around anyone's neck before. dindi suits my fancy perfectly, i am drawn to anything tiny & twee.



dindi is offering one m.writes reader a charm necklace of their choice! simply leave a comment to enter to win. tell me what (or whom) you think is charming. comments are open until saturday / june 27 / midnight / mountain time. a random winner will be announced next week.

thank you, erna.

mango salsa

this salsa is my new absolutely favorite way to boost my daily fruit & vegetable quota. am getting bolder by the week with produce picks. when i slice these ripe babies up, i feel like i'm playing a game of twister with the cast of grease; sweet mango is sandra dee to my john travolta red pepper. little miss lime divine is definitely rizzo. get out the chopping block, this reunion is cause for serious celebration. they go together.





marta's mango salsa

1 ripe mango, peeled, pitted & cubed
1/2 red pepper, diced
1 peach, diced
1 roma tomato, diced
1 small cucumber, peeled & diced
1/2 medium red onion, finely chopped
1 jalapeño chile, minced (optional)
1 ripe avocado, diced (optional)
4 Tbs fresh cilantro leaves, chopped
juice of one or two limes

combine the fresh ingredients in a bowl.
season with salt & pepper.
serve with tortilla chips
& any Mexican cuisine.
enjoy.

fighting for a cause

as many of you know, each summer dan and i raise money to support the national multiple sclerosis society. the ms bike ride in logan, utah gives us a chance to do something we love while also supporting a worthy cause. you can read my past ms bike stories here and here.

dan's family rides together each year to raise money in honor of dan's mom, who lives with ms. thanks to her cheerful, determined attitude and an aggressive treatment program, she is still able to do many of the things she loves. however, not everyone who suffers from ms is as fortunate. ms is a debilitating disease that attacks the brain and nervous system. fighting the disease with medication can slow its effects, but any damage to the nervous system is irreversible. left untreated, ms can be devastating in the lives of its victims, destroying the body's ability to speak and walk.

the national MS society is dedicated to fighting this crippling condition. the funds it collects are used to help those who are currently living with ms, research the causes of ms, and work towards a cure.

if you are able, please consider joining us in the fight against multiple sclerosis. contributions of any size are appreciated and truly have a meaningful effect in the lives of those who have ms.

to donate, please click here or use the fancy new button in the sidebar. i appreciate your support so much, thank you.



we love you shanna!

monday roll out

a few things to mention for monday.
am rolling out the carpet of my mind.

01. the winner from last week's giveaway is melissa. congrats, you've won a set of handmade stationery! please email your shipping info and choice of typewriter or tv set design to me.

02. truthfully i didn't mind all the rain this weekend. it has made everything so lush and green. the sunshine moments were all the more gloriful after buckets of rain. not a real word i realize, but seriously, it's exactly what i mean.

03. was happy to read an article about the making and meaning behind moleskin notebooks from a magazine my dad sent me in the mail. he is the best. he has given me a handful of these journals with favorite collectors stamps glued to the cover. not only is he completely thoughtful, he is crafty too.

04. am definitely digging happy tape, papercut maps and this japanese quilt. not to mention, these beautiful blind impression cards.

05. another gloriful find from the bulk foods; army guy gummies. when i saw them at the store, i had to smile and scoop some into a sack in honor of my man. doesn't every little boy dream of growing up to be gi joe? they turned out to be a great father's day snack as we walked along the local waterfalls and fed the ducks yesterday.

if i were planning my nine year old boy's birthday party, i'd be tempted to theme the whole event around these sweet troops. i can just imagine them on a tray, piled high in cellophane bag barracks with camouflage ribbon tied on the tops. the treats would be a fun reward after the boys wrapped up their water gun fight. i'd serve kool-aid in canteens, plan a water balloon surprise attack and a bazooka bubblegum blowing contest. at the end of the war party each boy would take home an army knapsack, embroidered with their initials. in my dreams, i can sew. it would be filled with army approved contents; a treasure map, a compass, a small notebook and a swiss army knife. i suppose the gummies would have to get eaten quick, they'd probably be considered contraband.



i told dan i had to get a picture before we gobbled the guys up. dan set them out, lining them up on his leg (his favorite faded corduroys) in a fashion that gave me a glimpse of exactly the little boy he was.

in this moment

hope your weekend was happy. it rained and it poured and it was sunshiney. it couldn't make up it's mind. but still, it was beautiful and green and good. i saw my favorites. i ate my favorites. i snuggled my favorites. i learned a lot. there were late night chats, mango salsa and laughter with old friends. dan took benj to the fathers & sons church outing. i don't know who was more excited, the father or the son. both happy as clams. then there was a women's saturday church activity to be in charge of. not to mention, a father's day breakfast full of bacon grease and syrup and surprises. including a big fat drill. when in doubt, choose power tools.

but first, let me back up. saturday, i learned something worth writing down. i learned that serving others is a good way to love others. i learned that me and a 40+ lady can become best of friends while mixing vats of salad together. we discussed the art of candied almonds. she made an amazing (and ginormous) batch. at the beginning of the long day, i felt sorry for myself that i would be stuck in the kitchen while everyone else got to go to uplifting lessons, hearing messages about God and love and happiness. i later realized that i learned a lot, right where i was put.

i learned from a woman who had lost a son to a drowning accident eight years ago. the anniversary of his death happened to be the day she mixed salad with me. saturday. she did not complain about having to serve hundreds when maybe she could have been quietly visiting a grave. instead, she was cheerful and a bit tearful, but happy and sweet. she became my friend. we drained sixteen cans of mandarin oranges while talking about life. recently, i have thought a lot about grieving and learning to live life after a horrific event happens. i can't imagine how i would cope, but i do believe that we will be made strong if we need to. i believe we can rely on something bigger than ourselves. i learned from this wonderful woman that we can move ahead and keep life going, even though hearts are breaking. she told me that she reads our local paper searching for obituaries. if ever there is a death of a boy in his twenties (like her own son), she writes a note to the family and tells them that she is available, if needs be, just to listen.

the moment i heard her explain, i paused and thought how incredible it is that she has turned her pain into action. as so many do. i am amazed that those who have lost go on to help others. i thought, wow, what a great person. here i was feeling sorry for myself about being put on the kitchen staff, while she smiles and serves salad, amidst painful memories. once again, i learned more than ever to appreciate what i have. to appreciate who i have. to love deeper. to live bigger. and to not feel sorry for myself but to look around and see what i can do, see how i can help, see how i can make a difference, see what ways i can make a change for good.

i learned that mixing salad with a stranger can bring about a new friend and a lesson worth remembering.

beauty tips 03

after last week's discussion of shimmer on the cheeks and shadows in the crease, i posed the following hypothetical to my panel. Lets say you're going out for the evening, a concert, dinner with your man, cupcakes with your girlfriend, whatever; describe your go-to outfit for a fun and casual night out? since i need all the fashion feedback i can get, i was so pleased with their outfit ideas and loved the inclusion of fun accessories. i will stay mum this time around and let the fashionistas do the talking.


KELLY P.
I love wearing dresses or skirts year round but especially in the summer. They're easy to dress up or down by adding jewelry or changing your shoes, and especially fun to twirl in (should you have the opportunity)! You will often find me wearing a skirt from J.Crew or Anthropologie, with a tank on top. I own quite the collection of cardigans and will slip on one of those if it's going to be a cool night. I have been loving the trend of belts over tops or sweaters and have been finishing my outfit off with one lately. If you wear it a bit higher on your waist it makes you look a bit taller, and let's face it, I need all the help I can get.

ALANA S.
My favorite fashion look is taking a seemingly classic outfit, say jeans and a t-shirt, and throwing in a chunky cuff, a long necklace, an Anthro belt, or and Urban scarf and making the look my own. I like taking classic Banana/J. Crew/Gap outfits that I know I will like for awhile and then adding a few funky/trendy touches. That way I have good solids that last me from trend to trend without having to change my wardrobe every time the fashion winds change. I also like doing this because then when you look back at pics from a couple years back you don't say "what was I thinking?" At least most of the time. Who can hide from that BUM Equipment sweatshirt era? Speaking of which, I avoid huge logos at all costs. Unless the designer is paying me to be a walking, talking billboard, I am not going to advertise across my chest.

SUMMER H.
fall | winter.. jeans. heels. cute scarf. wavy-messy hair. glamorous eye shadow. glitzy earrings. spring | summer.. chic casual dress. flip-flops. shiny gloss. teased hair. big sunglasses.

JAMIE ANNE C.
My go-to getup always involves a comfy yet stylish dress with a jacket/cardigan/blazer of some sort layered on top. Finish things off with some stylish jewelry and killer heels (always heels cuz I’m short and everyone I associate with seems to be tall).

ELIZABETH W.
I have a pretty pronounced hourglass shape, so I love to play it up by wearing the most flirty, feminine, classic clothes I can find. When it comes to dressing up or dressing down, I play with materials. If I'm going to meet a girlfriend for cupcakes, for example, I'd probably choose a linen skirt from Anthropologie, a pair of cute flats, and a soft, fitted v-neck tee with a sheer scarf around my neck. For dinner with my fiance, I'd grab a satin a-line dress, a beaded, cropped sweater, and a pair of open-toed pumps. A lot of my fashion inspiration comes from the 50s - think of the outfits Reese Witherspoon wore when she was promoting Walk The Line. The dress she wore when she won the Oscar was the cherry on top of a year of great outfits for her. I love wearing a-line skirts and dresses, cute shoes, and girly tops with just the slightest hint of cleave (cleavage, for those who don't know my lingo).

COURTNEY M.
nothing can trump an awesome pair of jean capris, my brown leather sandals that lace up around the ankle (don't forget the rich-girl red polish!) and my ivory trapeze top. pair it with a long necklace, gold bangle bracelets and big sunglasses and i'm ready to take on the world.

ALLISON C.
A sassy pair of jeans that make me feel hot, nice heels, and some sort of fun top, whether it's a breezy blouse in the Summer or an adorable sweater in the Winter. Great, chandelier type earrings, something big. I like big earrings. Stacked bracelets, wedding rings, and a signature ring on the middle finger of my right hand, usually a huge statement piece. Voila, ready to go! I'm all about the accessories. {It's making me wish I were getting ready to go somewhere!}

ERICA E.
I am a t-shirt gal most of the time. My usual go to outfit for almost any outing is a comfortable pair of jeans, a t-shirt (I live in Shade clothing!) and some flats. I usually spice it up a little bit with some fun jewelry, funky earrings and some lipstick. Depending where I am going I will whip out a pair of heels and a blazer or coat but I usually will still be in a pair of jeans and a t-shirt. For me, comfort is key.

EMILY Y.
Jeans, jeans, and more jeans. a cute top, and usually my cowboy boots or my buckle flats (not the store, but an actual buckle on my shoe).

HANNAH C.
I am a j.crew/banana republic kind of girl. I like simple lines and classic fits with pops of color. My favorite outfit is a tie-neck blouse in tomato orange from banana republic, dark wash essential jeans from the gap, vintage-gold and green floral cardigan from anthropologie and gold flats from piperlime. It is a unique outfit that stands out without being too OUT there. I am ALWAYS on the lookout for a great deal. If you can't stand the fancy price tags, you can usually get similar items at Target or Forever 21. I recommend buying namebrand/high quality basic pieces and bargain shopping for the trendy must-haves of the season.

SARAH H.
Skinny jeans from Urban Outfitters (cute and only $50!), with tall boots or flats depending on the activity and weather, and a simple top with hoops, I'm a big earring girl.

CHELSEY B.
I like layering my clothes when I go out. I feel it looks more trendy and fashion forward. Skinny jeans, A long fitted shirt, cardigan, gold jewelry and a scarf. Now the shoes depend on the weather. If it's cold, I'll wear my trendy but semi- 80's black boots over my jeans, if it's warm I'll choose heels or some gladiator sandals. I love getting dressed up and feeling cute.

TARYN L.
jeans, flats.. and probably a cardigan. you never know if it is going to get cold!

feel free to pitch in your fashion ideas. tune in next week; these experts reveal their final thoughts on the meaning of true beauty. thank you, panelists.

dee and me

happy father's day, dad. i still feel small and happy with you beside me.

oh boy.

thank you for all the goodness about my bulk food / cellophane wrap idea. i buy the cellophane bags in two sizes and try to always have some on hand. they are my wrapping weapon of choice. perfect for making little things look that much cuter. xpedx has the greatest selection of high quality bags. i also like stacking cookies or muffins in them too. ribbon, baker's twine or a strip of fabric ties it up pretty.

i am cutting out early today to prep for guests. whit & co. are coming! hip hip. am going to attempt to whip up something delicious and pray that the weather behaves. methinks we'll celebrate father's day with pancakes, sliced bananas, syrup and bacon. the four basic food groups.

i cannot begin to put into words what it means to have watched dan become a dad. lets just say, it doesn't even compare to the first time i saw him skate his seventies heart out at the roller rink. or the first time i sat in awe of his neil diamond impression. or the first time he took me snowshoeing and brought along hot chocolate in a thermos. or that time he left tulips on my porch for no reason. seeing him with our son is like falling in love with him all over again.



happy first father's day, dan.
you have won both our hearts. xo.


photography by ginnie j.

giveaway: gocco print cards

unique designs are always on my radar. these neat note cards caught me off guard with their quirky illustrations and fun vintage sketches. it is not every day you come across a greeting card featuring an old sewing machine or vespa scooter, but i know just the people who would smile at the notion. these happy hand printed cards are a fun way to personalize a hello or wish you were here or thinking of you. if i were to receive one, it would be pinned to my bulletin board straight away.


paper + twine will be giving one lucky m.writes reader a set of four notecards. and in honor of dear old dads around the world, the winner gets to choose between the charming tv set or vintage typewriter designs.

simply leave a comment to enter to win. tell me one thing you love about your pops. me? as a young girl, i fell asleep to the sound of my father's fingers tapping on the typewriter. his office was at home, adjacent to my room. hearing the familiar clicks was more than music to my ears, it was a lullaby. it did not occur to me then that he was working late, writing into the night or supporting his wife and seven kids. all i knew was that i felt safe, snuggly and happy and would fall fast asleep before he'd finish his work. life was good. i belonged right there, next to my dad.

comments are open until saturday / june 20 / midnight / mountain time. a random winner will be announced next week.

thank you, casey.
visit her fantastic blog + online shop.

a few finds for fathers

this sunday, give your ol' man something
that will take him back to the good ol' days.
sit back and listen to his stories
and set up the checker board.

volkswagon camper print $42
world globe $80
polaroid square shooter camera $22
vintage checker set $8

giving: linda & harriett goodies

last week linda & harriett, a favorite stationery company, sent me a box of letterpressed lovelies. i began swooning over their pretty paperie and thought i ought to share. one random commenter will receive a thick notepad to keep and four fine note cards to give. i especially like the neutral designs, masculine enough to mail off to any fatherly figure this coming weekend.

enter to win by noon / mountain time / today. check this post tonight to see if you've won. i'll be shipping them off pronto. good luck. the winner is claire. congrats to you.

thank you, L&H.

say it with sugar

i really do love the bulk foods section at my local grocery store. i love it so much, i find myself constantly referring to it when telling my family members all the reasons they should come up for a visit. there are spices and croutons and nuts and soup mixes and pastas and honey and chocolates and mints and jelly beans and dried fruits and a healthy supply of sugar.

so every time we head home for a road trip, i like to tote along something to say thank you. a sweet hostess gift or two. which allows for the perfect excuse to go willy wonka wild at the bulk foods. it has become my go-to one stop shop. i pick out favorites, wrap them up with cellophane, tie with ribbon and stash in my carry-on. i take along tiny white tags too. for the charm factor. it's nothing big or grand, but it's my thoughtful way to say thanks for having us. it's nice to be nice.



the outcome: my dad seemed so happy with his honey. the fruit sours were the perfect thing to pop in our mouths at the zoo with my nieces. and i snuck the licorice nibs into dan's backpack before he left for his boyz trip. everyone loves a li'l unexpected sweet treat.

winner

thank you everyone for participating in the baby dress giveaway. the random winner is landrylee. hip hip hooray, you've won! congratulations. please email me your favorite dress design along with your shipping address. more giveaway goodness this thursday. and if you're still paying attention, there will be a speedy spontaneous giveaway tomorrow morning. can't wait.

beauty tips 02

prepare yourselves. these panelists are dumping out their beauty bins and discussing the contents. this is exactly what slumber parties are all about.



KELLY P.
1.) MAC Blushcreme - Sweet William & Blossoming
2.) Redken Clear Moisture Instant Polishing Prep (leave-in hair conditioner)
3.) Kiehl's Panthenol Protein Moisturizing Face Cream
4.) Stila Kajal Eye Liner - Onyx
5.) MAC Mineralize Skin Finish

ALANA S. Five products I'm married to:
• Clinique Almost Make-up because it gives me an all over cover for my blotchy skin without going overboard on the coverage. It gives me a smooth, moist tone-never chalky. It also has SPF 15 to help me fight the sun.

• Cream blush. Aveda, Bobbi Brown and Nars make a good blush stick and I also like the MAC cream blush compact (although it's harder to apply). The color blends seamlessly into your skin. It's seriously magic. I also like to use the same color on my cheeks and on my lips with a coat of clear lipgloss over my lips. When people tell me I have "great coloring" I have almost always used this little trick (and I think it's a real trick because I don't have great coloring). You can also get away with wearing it to the pool or on that boating trip with your new man who hasn't seen you without make-up yet. It's that natural looking.

• Shu Uemura eyelash curler and Origins Underwear for Lashes. I have short stubby lashes and without this duo I have NO length. BEST curler out there-trust me I've tried them all! Doesn't pinch and actually holds your curl. This tip came from Oprah's make-up artist a few years ago and I haven't switched since. With Origins "Underwear" I get a lot more length and definition—I really swear by it now. A got a couple co-workers to start using it and now they’re addicts too!

• Bed Head Headrush, hair shiner (in the pink bottle). Every time I wear it someone tells me how good my hair smells. I like it in the summer when my long hair looks a little dry. I spray it all over and then comb it through dry hair for a polished, shiny look. I guess this one isn't a secret though. I moved in with 5 lovely sorority sisters in college and it was the one product we all had in common.

• In the summer I can't go without my Bobby Brown Bronze Shimmer Brick. I love it because it gives my skin a sun-kissed radiant look. I sweep a fat blush brush over the whole palate and apply to both checks then I take a finger and just use the lightest color on the apples of my cheeks, lower eye-lid and brow bone. People have asked me how I get that J.Lo Glow—this is the secret. I like it because it's an all-in-one bronzer/highlighter and it doesn't look or feel greasy.

*Okay that was technically six products, but whose counting? In all reality I could have done another section entitled: Five products I'm not 100% faithful to but still lust after anyway.

SUMMER H.
one. cetaphil cleanser
two. my MAC paint pot in the 'painterly' tint
three. bedhead superstar queen for a day thickening spray
four. sunscreen chapstick. the blue one with spf 15
five. pureology hydra cure intense moisture hair masque
bonus. aussie sprunch spray

JAMIE ANNE C. I don’t have a favorite hair product because I think a fab haircut should do the talking. But here are some goodies I can’t live without:

• Chanel foundation & Chanel soft pressed powder in Rosee: there are times in life when splurging is a girl's best friend

• Drugstore Maybelline mascara: I’ve NEVER paid more than $7 for mascara

• MAC Hush cream colour base & Instant Gold Lustreglass: Hush is the little lovely I never leave home without. It’s remarkable on lips, cheeks, eyes, collarbones, or anywhere else you want a glowing highlight

• MdSkincare Alpha Beta Daily Face Peel: I use this every other day to exfoliate and whoowhee does it leave my skin silky smooth

• Last but definitely not least, A Good Pair of Shades: I’m talking sunglasses, girls. when all else fails, these will never fail you

ELIZABETH W. Five?! I have to choose five? Okay. I'll do it. If I were going to a desert island and could only bring five things, they would be:

• Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser. It's great because you can wash your face with it or use it as a moisturizer by smoothing a thin layer on your skin.

• Bare Minerals foundation. I love this stuff and wear it every day. I use it as foundation, cover-up, and powder, plus the package tells me it's good for my skin and I ALWAYS believe makeup packaging.

• Sinful Colors eyeshadow in Dazzling Night. This is a deep black eyeshadow that is amazing for lining the eyes with an angled brush. The bonus is that it's only $4.00 and it's better than any other shadow liner I've ever tried - and I've tried 'em all. Even on my "natural" makeup days, I put a thin line of black over my top lashes to define my eyes and make my eyelashes look full.

• Black mascara. Any brand will do. When I was little, I used to think that the only difference between girls and boys was eyelashes: girls have them, boys don't. That's probably why I'm a little bit crazy about allllways having mascara on. Going with bare lashes puts my gender in jeopardy.

• Laura Mercier Shimmer Bloc in either pink or peach. This is a lovely shimmer that can also be used as eyeshadow, highlighter, blush, or bronzer, depending on which of the four colors you swirl your brush in. Every time I put this stuff on, someone asks me how I get my skin to look so glowy. And I have terrible skin, so that's a much bigger deal than someone complimenting J.Lo's skin (apparently she gets diamond pearl facials). I'm so jealous.

COURTNEY M. i couldn't live without my self-tanner; i'm naturally pasty white and freckle all too easily. i wear spf 45 all year round and make up for it with a sun-kissed glow from a bottle. i find that if i keep these things maintained, then all i need to do if i'm in a rush is put on some mascara and lip gloss and i'm a-ok. french manicures are my favourite, so i always have a bottle of nude and a bottle of white nail polish in my makeup bag. in the summertime, i'm big into red toenails. "rich-girl red", my sisters and i call it. a glossy coat of nail polish gives every pair of sandals that extra bit of oomph!

ALLISON C.
• Two words: Lip Glass. MAC, Clear, to be precise. Can't live without it.

• For moisturizer, I have used Oil of Olay {with sunscreen} for 15 years and I swear by it. Light enough to not get cake-y with make-up, but enough moisture that I'm covered even in the Utah desert!

• Mascara? Very Black Maybelline mascara, with a curved brush. Pink bottle, green lid. Seriously, I've been using this since the 9th grade and we're in love with one another. I've had brief affairs with other mascaras, but none of them lasted. The other thing about Maybelline is that it comes off with baby wipes! Which is my next go-to make-up tip.

• Use wet wipes as make-up remover. At least for your eyes, you can wash your face for the rest.

• You can't go wrong with O.P.I. Nail polish. They're expensive little bottles, but totally worth it. They won't be gooing all over your nail polish collection anytime soon, the bottles last forever, as does the color on your fingers and tootsies!

• Aveda all the way for hair. Aveda's Sap Moss gives amazing volume. Love it. Anti-humectant tames the frizzies, and makes me feel polished and ready to go. Plus, you can't beat the fact that it smells like you've just stepped out of a high end salon when you wear it!

ERICA E.
• Infusium 23 (repair)ologie Leave-in Treatment: I am one who likes to get days and days out of my blow dry, so I hate using any product in my hair. I love this product because it is a liquid and not a cream. It isn’t heavy and I can’t even feel that it is in my hair. I pour a quarter size amount in my hand and with my fingers apply from root to end, and then I blow dry. It conditions, strengthens and helps heal split ends.

• Nars Nourishing Eye Cream: I use this product morning, noon and night. I get really dry red spots at the corners of my eyes sometimes so this product has saved my life. I also get worried about wrinkles around my eyes and this helps fight off those bad boys! It is light and fragrant free which is also a plus for me. You can wear it under make up or over, and a little goes a long way. It moisturizes, revitalizes, helps improve skin’s texture, improves resilience and smoothes wrinkles. I use a tiny dob and pat it around my eyes in the mornings, after I put my makeup on and before I go to bed.

• Mary Kay Lash Lengthening Mascara: After trying way too many mascara’s I finally found one that I love. It never flakes, makes my lashes look longer and is light weight. I buy about 3 tubes at a time and am good for six months.

• OPI Cuticle Oil: Anyone who has dry cuticles, like me, needs a little bit of this stuff! It is a small applicator brush that you use to brush on five moisturizing oils and antioxidants to dry cuticles. It has seriously been a lifesaver in the cold weather.

• Medicated ChapStick: I have been addicted to this stuff since the seventh grade. No other chapstick beats it. I have a tube in every purse, in every car, in the bathroom, by the sink, by my bed. I am very addicted but because I put it on so much I never ever have chapped lips! I use it under and over lipsticks and lip glosses. Seriously great stuff!

EMILY Y.
1. Oil of Olay original (in the pink bottle) Lotion.
2. Cetaphil Cleanser
3. Vaseline Intensive Care lotion
4. Clinique Gentle Light Powder and brush
5. Sally Hansen Wax Strips (for those times when you just can't make it to Finnish Touch Spa)

HANNAH C. My sister-in-law introduced me to Nioxin Shampoo about 6 months ago and I fell in love. It smells fantastic, gives a strengthening shine and helps to thicken your hair. It is a little more pricey than your average shampoo, but some things are worth it. Nothing compares to M.A.C eyeshadow. I keep trying to find a cheaper alternative, but haven't been satisfied. The colors are vibrant and they stay on ALL day. They also last forever! I have had my eyeshadow for 18 months and they aren't even halfway gone! My favorite color is Woodwinked, which seems to look great on everyone! I LOVE my d:fi pliable molding cream. It gives texture to you hair without making it look greasy. As long as your husband doesn't discover how great it is and use all of it, a small bottle should last you about a year. I am too cheap to get professional microdermabrasion, but I have found a great alternative! Mary Kay's Microdermabrasion is fabulous! It really REALLY works. In fact, Mary Kay's whole Time Wise line is so great! (And I know someone who sells Mary Kay for really cheap. Contact me for her info if you are interested!) I can't stand chipping nail polish. I want it to last. I have recently fallen in love with Nic's Sticks, available at Target. Easy to apply, great colors and LONG lasting!

SARAH H. Hair: Moroccan Oil, Purology shampoo/conditioner (Purple bottle), and Head and Shoulders (it smells so good and is so good for your hair! Its not just for dandruff!) Makeup: Estee Lauder More Than Mascara and Lash Primer, MAC Lip Glass, Clinique Dramatically Different Lotion, Nails: OPI nail polish for sure!

CHELSEY B.
1. OPI nail polish in any bright red or pink shade. Love it so much, I think it shows character and confidence.

2. Bumble and bumble "Surf spray", so great if you're in a hurry... spray in your hair, blow dry and let those natural waves take over. It gives that "just went to the beach sexy mama" hair!

3. MAC Plushglass lipgloss. My 2 favorite shades are "Cushy white" and "Fulfilled". They both have the perfect amount of shimmer for any occasion, go great over lipstick and make lips look full and lush.

4. Lately I have been LOVING "Soft soap" Body Butter Apricot Scrub. Ooooh this stuff is yummy! Squeeze some onto a luffa and scrub away. It has jojoba extracts and apricot seeds that gently exfoliate while helping retain the natural moisture in your skin.

5. Tigi bed head "Big fat fun" eye liner. It goes on smooth, works great if you're in a hurry and don't have tons of time to be precise. Has a smudgie on one end to make it look smokey and dramatic. I personally like my liner to be smokey so this liner is the one for me!

TARYN L. (one.) for my hair after party, by tigi. it is great to use before and after straightening, and smells delicious. (two) dear john, by benefit. it is really thick and really creamy. (three and four) the only two make up products that i really use every day are bronzer and mascara. i use the bare minerals bronzer and love it. (five) baby oil. i like to mix it with lotion. it seems to keep my skin more hydrated.

MARTA: here are my narrowed-down faves. MAC pencil eyeliner in Teddy (pretty brown with gold flecks, subtle and sweet) / Bobbi Brown gel eyeliner pots (a pot will last forever and once you get the technique down, it makes a perfect lined smoky eye) / MAC eye shadows; All That Glitters and Paradisco are among my go-to's. (Another tip; someone taught me to line my blue eyes by dipping a tiny, damp angled brush into deep purple, Sketch, eyeshadow. it makes my eyes pop. i am a big believer in cozying up to the MAC counter for free demos.) / Yves Saint Laurent Touche Eclat (this is by far the best concealer pen, undereye liquid ever. my mom brought it from new york and introduced me to it. absolutely perfect for my newborn babe days when i got no sleep.) / Bobbi Brown concealer stick is great for everything else. / Bumble & Bumble Prep and Thickening Spray do wonders for my fine hair. their hair powder is awesome for fun, big hair days too. / MAC Viva Glam V lipstick makes a perfect pout. (i like to play up my eyes, so wearing a neutral lipstick is essential. clinique superbalm gloss is dreamy too.) / Trish McEvoy has the softest makeup brushes I've ever come across, am saving up for them. / Sonia Kashuk (at Target) has a terrific pencil sharpener with two hole sizes and a mess-free, hinge cover. i've gotten carried away, i know. this list makes me sound either a.) like a beauty queen b.) like i won't be caught dead without makeup on or c.) like i'm completely high maintenance. i'm none of the above, i swear it!

now please, let me know your favorite products. tune in next week; these experts reveal their fun fashion tips. thank you, panelists.

unfold the creases

writing prompts | week 09.
unfold the creases and create. lets play origami.

it's been a long time since i've done a write club post, they are difficult for me to conjure for some reason. posting about zack morris is much easier. posting about nothing is easier than posting about something. hope you'll forgive me for my delays. this rainy day friday has me in an introspective mood which is always a good mood for writing. come to think of it, any mood is good for writing.

i've been thinking about these two favorite quotes (image above) and what they mean in my life right now. i've been looking back in my journals and notice a common thread. i see a lot of wildly jotted questions. when i feel at a standstill in life, i often list a bunch of wonders all over the page. some examples; when will we finish school? when will i get a job i actually like? where will dan go to law school? when will we get out of this tiny apartment? when will i know what i want to do? where are we going to live? when will i have a baby? will i ever get over the fear of childbirth? they go on and on.

i think i list because (being me) i have to somehow categorize the unknown in a way that makes sense. once i get it down, i try to let it be. i think i will write wild questions until i am grey and wrinkled and have everything figured out in my old age. therapeutically, the questions, over time answer themselves. later i look back at them and think, if only i had known.

because we did move out of that first apartment where i started small and crafted cards for friends and family. i thought martacards was a cute name for my mini empire. we eventually moved to the big bold world of orange county, california where dan started law school. i realized making cards was not my thing, i got sick of the x-acto knife and felt frustrated that a thousand other girls were making cards, and making much cuter cards. plus selling cards was not bringing home any bacon.

with time, i figured out what i wanted to do. i designed. and miraculously landed a graphic design job that i was completely unqualified for. so i learned. and i grew. and was humbled by my ignorance. i realized what i wanted and later, what i'd gained. i liked designing printed material, collaging was a good outlet for me, i could be a working woman, i could work hard if i knew saturday (beach day) was only a few days away. i unfolded piece by piece. later, we'd have our first little one in the quiet country life of idaho. i'd become a mom without the drama i'd imagined. it was simple, like i was meant for it. and everyday i make it up as i go. another piece unfolds. and we start again. letting the questions untangle with time.

01. make a list of questions. silly and smart. trite and bold. let loose all the wonders inside. write them all down and then stop worrying about them. they now have a place on the page, don't let them take over the rest of your life. stop wondering about the unknowns. easier said than done, i know.

02. in what ways has your life turned out differently than you thought? how has life flipped you on the bright side? what experiences have left you thinking, am glad that happened, i learned so much from it..

03. how do you create and pave your own path? describe what this quote means to you; life isn't about finding yourself, life is about creating yourself.

unfold yourself. find what's inside. let it out.
create a path that is fit for your potential.

happy weekend. may it be uncrowded, lazy and warm where you are. dan is doing a marathon relay and i am going to make guacamole, clean craft space and get some more blonde put in. oh how i love the salon, among other things. benji's new love; graham crackers.

giveaway: handmade baby dress

i must say, i adore the sweet and the simple, especially when it comes to dressing chubby cherub types. one random winner will have the chance to pick their favorite handmade baby dress (the trim details are sew cute)!

katy's etsy shop, Sew Apropos is filled with lovely headbands, jewelry and girly dresses. she runs a household of darlings so i know she is an expert on the subject of all things pretty & princess. i can just imagine her drawers stuffed with little girl hair ties, frilly ribbons, colorful clips and frilly lace (and in a few years, loads of hairspray, earrings and makeup). i am glad i never outgrew playing dress up.

if you'd love a sweet + simple baby dress, fit for any doll faced sweetheart, simply leave a comment to enter to win. tell me one of your favorite outfits you wore when you were young. me? i wouldn't leave the house without my doll's navy peacoat. i loved attempting to wear it, leaving my dolly out in the cold to fend for herself. i usually paired it with my pink tutu and heart tights. being the youngest of seven children, my mother did not put up a fight. comments are open until saturday / june 13 / midnight / mountain time. the winner will be announced next week.

thank you, katy, for bringing simple back.


...I love to create and I've always had the tools and materials at hand, with my parents both as artists. I feel that is so important for children. I have 5 daughters, 7 and under, and I want them to feel that if they get the urge to create, they have everything at their fingertips. I first started sewing for my Barbie, then took lessons in high school and college. I sew mostly for myself and my daughters, but just recently started filling my Etsy shop and participating in exchanges. - katy {contact katy directly if you're interested in a handmade trade.}

visit katy's darling shop + blog.

quiet scenes of salt lake city

i took my babe on a stroll to buy a bagel last saturday morning when he woke up too early to do anything else. i was happy to have my camera, a smiling little chum and plenty of pretty scenes i wouldn't have noticed otherwise. it's good to wake up before the city does and attempt to take it's portrait.

zack morris returns

pretty much the raddest segment ever. my sister emailed it to me. she knows first-hand how many hours i spent watching reruns of saved by the bell. i would totally win a bayside high themed monopoly tournament. scary, but true.