Ok, well, I haven't moved, but my blog has!
You now can find me at http://oneofthelovebugs.wordpress.com/.
I had to change blog hosts because of the problems I have been having with Blogger. I hate to leave and change things up, but I hope you will all come along.
Much Love,
JB
Tuesday, June 14, 2011
Sunday, June 12, 2011
Goodbye Weekend...
*Sigh* Another weekend is over. I know, I know, I'm still in transition, so I don't have all of the stresses of a career, but the weekends are sweet. During the week, I fill each day with many housewife tasks, keep busy organizing, building, and creating, and run errands. I'm a pretty busy girl. :)
This weekend was pretty fabulous. The hubby planned a date day on Saturday, and it was terrific. We took a little road trip to Gettysburg. We didn't go there to do "touristy things" - we did "us" things. We went to the outlets, where I had an awesome time trying on clothes. I picked out some treasures at the Gap for our beach trip later in the month. :-)
After we got our fill of shopping, we hit up the mini-golf course - our first game of the season. We were both really out of practice, but it was fun to laugh and see how many puts it took to get the ball in. The course we went to is gorgeous.
Mini golf was followed by Supermelts and Sundaes at Friendlys. Excellent day.
Today was relaxing. I went out and took some photos that I will share tomorrow. As for tonight, I'm kicking back with a rasp-strawberry non fat shake I made. Hope you all had a terrific weekend!
-JB
This weekend was pretty fabulous. The hubby planned a date day on Saturday, and it was terrific. We took a little road trip to Gettysburg. We didn't go there to do "touristy things" - we did "us" things. We went to the outlets, where I had an awesome time trying on clothes. I picked out some treasures at the Gap for our beach trip later in the month. :-)
After we got our fill of shopping, we hit up the mini-golf course - our first game of the season. We were both really out of practice, but it was fun to laugh and see how many puts it took to get the ball in. The course we went to is gorgeous.
Mini golf was followed by Supermelts and Sundaes at Friendlys. Excellent day.
Today was relaxing. I went out and took some photos that I will share tomorrow. As for tonight, I'm kicking back with a rasp-strawberry non fat shake I made. Hope you all had a terrific weekend!
-JB
Friday, June 10, 2011
I dream in color...
My birthday is in 10 days. Now, now, I’m not telling you so you’ll get me something, instead I’m telling you because on my birthday I’m going to start a big task. I am going to do a photo a day for the entire year. That's right.... 365 photographs. :-D I’m excited that I’m starting on my birthday because it’s like giving birth to a brand new project on the day that my parents celebrate the birth of the biggest “project” of their lives.
Each day I am challenging myself to take at least one photograph that is print worthy – so maybe at the end, it can be compiled for a calendar or something to that effect. Hey… they say if you’re gonna dream, then you should “dream big!”.
I’m always dreaming. In fact, I dream in color, or shall I say, colors. Aqua, yellow, orange, hot pink, sky blue, bright red, neon green (I could go on and on). Life and everything in it is so vibrant to me. I very rarely do black and white photos because I love the way the bright color prints jump out at you. When I want my photograph to be mystic or reveal that deeper darker part of emotion, that's when I go B&W. But even when I do that, I'm often tempted to let one color stay and POP! - and sometimes that's good and sometimes it defeats the emotion. The next couple of shots are full color feeling, and they POP!
This flower makes me want to stand out in a crowd...
This piece of sky mesmerizes me....
This ladybug reminds me of love....
This rose makes me wanna dance...
And this sunset takes my breath away.
I hope you will take the time to enjoy the moment and let something take your breath away. Life is vibrant!
-JB
total calories for the day: I'm not sure, I was very busy and had lunch with my parents - but I know it was less than 2000.
exercise for the day: moving furniture and doing yard sale stuff - I got up at 5:30, so I didn't if it in me to do 5 miles as well
what we had for supper: wheat rotini with red pepper, squash, onion, chicken, tomato, and sauce
what I'm reading: Folly Beach by Karen White
weight loss progress (remember I only weigh in on Wednesdays): 4.5 lbs of 25 lb goal - (18% there)Thursday, June 9, 2011
Real dreams vs. Pipe dreams
How do we know how to differentiate our "pipe dreams" from the dreams we were made to have - dreams that we should be doing our all to see succeed? I honestly don't know the difference, and it's starting to become a point of contention within me. Sometimes I think it's easy to tell the difference. For example - dreaming of having my photographs published and sold - possible dream... dreaming of having a cafe in a small beach town where I can sell and do photography - pipe dream. So what is the difference here?
The idea of having a small business is so enticing to me. But how do you get started? I think I look at my "loves" and see doing them on the side a real dream, and doing them full time a pipe dream. Some of you know that I've had some long term time off recently. And I have been having a hard time finding a new career that is a good fit for me. I thought I had finally found it, and today I got a phone call letting me know that even though my interview was great, they had to fill it internally. Hmph.
I see each and every season in life as a gift from God. Every season, no matter how sunny, snowy, or treacherous, has a purpose for us. So today (after I realized I was back to the drawing board) I got this strong feeling that there was something I was supposed to be realizing. And I have no idea what it is. But I do feel like right now, God wants me to be using this time to be launching the part of my dreams that could someday become something big. I'll say it again, what that looks like, I'm not really sure. So if you think about it, say a prayer for me. It's on my heart that there's something I'm supposed to be learning, but I'm still in the "waiting" phase.
As for me, I will now dream of another small business of sorts. Tomorrow I'm having a pretty big yard sale. There's going to be tons of stuff - Barbies, a vacuum, some clothes, some house goods, and so many other things! We're going to be selling this bed too - so if you know anyone that needs a twin bed, contact me and I'll let you know where I'll be.
Gnight - the hubs is telling me I should sleep cause I'm getting up at 5:30, and he's right.
-JB
The idea of having a small business is so enticing to me. But how do you get started? I think I look at my "loves" and see doing them on the side a real dream, and doing them full time a pipe dream. Some of you know that I've had some long term time off recently. And I have been having a hard time finding a new career that is a good fit for me. I thought I had finally found it, and today I got a phone call letting me know that even though my interview was great, they had to fill it internally. Hmph.
I see each and every season in life as a gift from God. Every season, no matter how sunny, snowy, or treacherous, has a purpose for us. So today (after I realized I was back to the drawing board) I got this strong feeling that there was something I was supposed to be realizing. And I have no idea what it is. But I do feel like right now, God wants me to be using this time to be launching the part of my dreams that could someday become something big. I'll say it again, what that looks like, I'm not really sure. So if you think about it, say a prayer for me. It's on my heart that there's something I'm supposed to be learning, but I'm still in the "waiting" phase.
As for me, I will now dream of another small business of sorts. Tomorrow I'm having a pretty big yard sale. There's going to be tons of stuff - Barbies, a vacuum, some clothes, some house goods, and so many other things! We're going to be selling this bed too - so if you know anyone that needs a twin bed, contact me and I'll let you know where I'll be.
-JB
Wednesday, June 8, 2011
Ikea and back - where our home (and life) are going!
On Saturday, my hubby and I took a long awaited trip to IKEA in College Park, Maryland. If you've never gone to IKEA, I hope you will find one near you and go (or at least click on this link to see what it's all about)! It's really fun to walk through each room they have set up. You get plenty of ideas to take along with you to your own home, plus whatever goodies you find you can't live without. Today these goodies for me were some frames, a crafting tray, and an awesome new pot for my beautiful calla lily (whom I have affectionately name Caly) because she has outgrown her old home.
Even though I found all of these wonderful pieces for me, the real reason for the trip was to buy a desk for the hubs. He is a writer, and since we moved, we hadn't yet bought the perfect furniture for his office. He had decided on a desk from IKEA last time we were there, but we were traveling and didn't have room to haul it. We decided we would buy it online once we were home and have it shipped to us, but the shipping was $349.00! So needless to say, we weren't paying more for the shipping than the desk itself cost, so we embarked on the endeavor to retrieve the desk ourselves. By the time we made it to the check out line, our cart was full!
I can't wait to show you the transformation of our spare bedroom into his office! HGTV is my favorite channel, and one of my greatest passions in life is design (whether in photography, scrapbooking, beadwork, stamping, or painting). So it is so exciting for me to know that I'm going to be doing some room design, but it is the hubbys's office. The room will have to be super functional for him and fit his style and tastes. A great and exciting challenge! (don't worry, we've designated plenty of space to my craft work!)
As we clean out the room, we are going to have to move this super awesome bed out. A double papasan will be taking its place. If you know anyone in the area that is in need of a nice twin bed and nearly new mattress, let me know! I'm going to be selling it at a yard sale this weekend, and I would love for it to have a great new home.
If you were following along with PlateOnDisplay (my healthy eating blog that I have discontinued), you know that today is Weigh-in Wednesday. Just because the blog has ended, doesn't mean that my weight-loss journey is stalling or stopping. So today I will report that in the last week (June 1-8) I lost 4.5 pounds. Today you will see that I am still keeping track of my calories at the bottom of the blog, and if you are interested in the detailed synopsis of my food journal, let me know (because it still exists).
I hope you are all having a terrific day!
-JB
total calories for the day: 720 calories as of 5 o'clock
exercise for the day: 1.5 miles (hey, it was hot!) + another walk after dinner
what we're having for supper: turkey burgers, homemade sweet potato fries, and a veggie
what I'm reading: Folly Beach by Karen White
weight loss progress (remember I only weigh in on Wednesdays): 4.5 lbs of 25 lb goal - (18% there)
Even though I found all of these wonderful pieces for me, the real reason for the trip was to buy a desk for the hubs. He is a writer, and since we moved, we hadn't yet bought the perfect furniture for his office. He had decided on a desk from IKEA last time we were there, but we were traveling and didn't have room to haul it. We decided we would buy it online once we were home and have it shipped to us, but the shipping was $349.00! So needless to say, we weren't paying more for the shipping than the desk itself cost, so we embarked on the endeavor to retrieve the desk ourselves. By the time we made it to the check out line, our cart was full!
As we clean out the room, we are going to have to move this super awesome bed out. A double papasan will be taking its place. If you know anyone in the area that is in need of a nice twin bed and nearly new mattress, let me know! I'm going to be selling it at a yard sale this weekend, and I would love for it to have a great new home.
If you were following along with PlateOnDisplay (my healthy eating blog that I have discontinued), you know that today is Weigh-in Wednesday. Just because the blog has ended, doesn't mean that my weight-loss journey is stalling or stopping. So today I will report that in the last week (June 1-8) I lost 4.5 pounds. Today you will see that I am still keeping track of my calories at the bottom of the blog, and if you are interested in the detailed synopsis of my food journal, let me know (because it still exists).
I hope you are all having a terrific day!
-JB
total calories for the day: 720 calories as of 5 o'clock
exercise for the day: 1.5 miles (hey, it was hot!) + another walk after dinner
what we're having for supper: turkey burgers, homemade sweet potato fries, and a veggie
what I'm reading: Folly Beach by Karen White
weight loss progress (remember I only weigh in on Wednesdays): 4.5 lbs of 25 lb goal - (18% there)
Tuesday, June 7, 2011
Back in full bloom...
First off, I want to apologize for my absence over the last few days. I've been spending some time thinking about the direction I want to see the blogs go, and I've come to the point where I've finally made my decision.
Some of you know that about a week ago I started a blog on wordpress that I named "PlateOnDisplay". Each day I post everything I've eaten, show a picture or two, talk about my workout, and try to squeeze some laughs in. My desire with this blog was to get my weight loss goals in order and have a forum available for other people that felt the same way about the current state of their health.
While it was fun to have another blog, I found it incredibly frustrating. I know that a lot of my readers overlap, and this small town doesn't provide enough different experiences each day to provide enough unique and interesting stories for two blogs. So here is my solution - discontinue plateondisplay and devote all of my blogging love and affection to "OneOfTheLovebugs". Now, now, I'm not giving up on my weightloss goals, and I'm not going to make that simply a private battle. I'm going to have some information I give at the end of each blog - total calories, exercise for the day, what we had for supper, and what I'm reading. More than likely, once a week I will focus a post on nutrition, weight loss progress, or an awesome recipe that we tried and loved.
In addition, I made some changes to my etsy shop plan. I changed my shop name to "oneofthelovebugs" so that I could gain continuity between the shop, my blog, and completed the plan with a new email address. This is all well and good, but it's been a setback on opening the shop. It's good that I realized it was important for me to have it this way before my bog public launch - because once it launches, there's no turning back.
So, I've missed you all, and I have so many pictures I want to show you!
As for today, I went to my parents' house to go through the many boxes they have graciously stored since my childhood. I went through box after box, and eventually mom and I needed a break. Here's a glimpse at what that looked like. :)
Some of you know that about a week ago I started a blog on wordpress that I named "PlateOnDisplay". Each day I post everything I've eaten, show a picture or two, talk about my workout, and try to squeeze some laughs in. My desire with this blog was to get my weight loss goals in order and have a forum available for other people that felt the same way about the current state of their health.
While it was fun to have another blog, I found it incredibly frustrating. I know that a lot of my readers overlap, and this small town doesn't provide enough different experiences each day to provide enough unique and interesting stories for two blogs. So here is my solution - discontinue plateondisplay and devote all of my blogging love and affection to "OneOfTheLovebugs". Now, now, I'm not giving up on my weightloss goals, and I'm not going to make that simply a private battle. I'm going to have some information I give at the end of each blog - total calories, exercise for the day, what we had for supper, and what I'm reading. More than likely, once a week I will focus a post on nutrition, weight loss progress, or an awesome recipe that we tried and loved.
In addition, I made some changes to my etsy shop plan. I changed my shop name to "oneofthelovebugs" so that I could gain continuity between the shop, my blog, and completed the plan with a new email address. This is all well and good, but it's been a setback on opening the shop. It's good that I realized it was important for me to have it this way before my bog public launch - because once it launches, there's no turning back.
So, I've missed you all, and I have so many pictures I want to show you!
Needless to say, my afternoon brought back beautiful memories from my childhood. I love you momma!
So how are you all doing? I've missed hearing from you!
Hope your week is starting off well!!! I'll write again tomorrow - and I can't wait! <3
-JB
Starting tomorrow look here as I track my progress!!
Saturday, June 4, 2011
Gearin' up for a SUNsational Summer!
Even though summer is about 17 days away from it's official kick-off, is has been FEELING like summer lately. The last few days have had the perfect balance of sun, breeze, and blue skies. This has really got me thinking about what I want to accomplish this summer. I love to-do lists, so I find great joy in writing a Summer of '11 "Bucket List".
So this is my list of to-do's by Labor Day (which is the start of my next favorite season)!
1. Read 6 books in their entirety. I have a hard time sitting still and just reading, so this will be really good for me. This means I should be reading 2 each month. This is totally do-able. Plus the best part of this challenge is that it strives me to keep up with my writer-husband's reading goals.
2. Walk 3 miles at least 5 times a week. Lose 25 pounds. At least.
3. Create our own personal cookbook.
4. Go to the beach and take some awesome photos!
5. Submit my photos to at least 10 possible "publishers".
6. Establish a successful Etsy page.
7. Complete the Bible challenge - read the whole Bible in 90 days!
8. Take great care of my vegetable plants and see if they can be really fruitful.
9. Climb another mountain with the hubs.
10. Experience the boardwalk at OC. :-D
And every day approach the journey with a smile. I know that God has a great plan for me (and US), and I'm praying that he shows me where He wants me to be in the day to day. He's given me an awesome husband and great life.
I will update these goals occasionally to let you know how they are going. I'm so excited about our first married summer. :-D
The journey has really only begun!
Have a happy Saturday!
-JB
Currently Reading: "Fearless" by Max Lucado
So this is my list of to-do's by Labor Day (which is the start of my next favorite season)!
1. Read 6 books in their entirety. I have a hard time sitting still and just reading, so this will be really good for me. This means I should be reading 2 each month. This is totally do-able. Plus the best part of this challenge is that it strives me to keep up with my writer-husband's reading goals.
2. Walk 3 miles at least 5 times a week. Lose 25 pounds. At least.
3. Create our own personal cookbook.
4. Go to the beach and take some awesome photos!
5. Submit my photos to at least 10 possible "publishers".
6. Establish a successful Etsy page.
7. Complete the Bible challenge - read the whole Bible in 90 days!
8. Take great care of my vegetable plants and see if they can be really fruitful.
9. Climb another mountain with the hubs.
10. Experience the boardwalk at OC. :-D
And every day approach the journey with a smile. I know that God has a great plan for me (and US), and I'm praying that he shows me where He wants me to be in the day to day. He's given me an awesome husband and great life.
I will update these goals occasionally to let you know how they are going. I'm so excited about our first married summer. :-D
The journey has really only begun!
Have a happy Saturday!
-JB
Currently Reading: "Fearless" by Max Lucado
Thursday, June 2, 2011
All of the beautiful things in life...
Life is so beautiful. Last week I started walking each day. I've now committed to making sure my life adjusts to being more healthy and active. If you've thought about getting more active and watching what you eat, check it out, it might motivate you! You can find this blog at http://plateondisplay.wordpress.com/.
Today while I was walking, I saw something amazing... a robin's egg laying on the road. The egg was unhatched, unharmed, and alone. First of all, I have no idea how it got there. The only thing that really seems to make any sense is that the bird laid in there. But why would a bird do that? I don't know... so I'm throwing this one out there to all of my readers... what are your thoughts?
My walks and the quiet time I spend outside has gotten me so in touch with nature and my beautiful and holy God. I do three miles each time, and when I started the routine, I meant it simply as a way to get in shape. I'm facing the fact that my metabolism isn't what it used to be, and if I want to run a marathon someday, I've got some work to do! But more importantly, it's been really good for my soul.
The weather is beautiful, and if you mostly spend your time indoors, I hope you will switch things up and head outside. Chances are you will be pleasantly surprised!
How have you all been lately?
-JB
Today while I was walking, I saw something amazing... a robin's egg laying on the road. The egg was unhatched, unharmed, and alone. First of all, I have no idea how it got there. The only thing that really seems to make any sense is that the bird laid in there. But why would a bird do that? I don't know... so I'm throwing this one out there to all of my readers... what are your thoughts?
My walks and the quiet time I spend outside has gotten me so in touch with nature and my beautiful and holy God. I do three miles each time, and when I started the routine, I meant it simply as a way to get in shape. I'm facing the fact that my metabolism isn't what it used to be, and if I want to run a marathon someday, I've got some work to do! But more importantly, it's been really good for my soul.
The weather is beautiful, and if you mostly spend your time indoors, I hope you will switch things up and head outside. Chances are you will be pleasantly surprised!
How have you all been lately?
-JB
Wednesday, June 1, 2011
Intricacies of life...
Happy Tuesday!
Today got off to a pretty great start for the week. I got a great work out in right off the bat this morning, and then I got to work on my crafts. I think tomorrow is going to be the day for the Etsy.com launch (finally)!! Woohoo!
I love knowing that I'm getting closer and closer to my goals. And I think that the little things in life are often my motivators - the things that make me smile are the things that keep me going. For example, right now, whenever I open up my laptop, this is what greets me:
How can you look at that and not smile? And what makes it even sweeter for me is knowing that at the moment the picture was taken he was trying with all his might to take the camera from me so he could play with it. :) When he realized he wasn't going to get the camera, he settled for being happy and entertaining me.
Kids are great. (Don't worry, we're still not ready to have any, lol) They are so intricate and unique. We have two nephews, and they are different as night and day. It amazes me all of the awesome details that go in to each of us as individuals.
Today while I was painting, it hit me that the same amount of detail and care goes in to each flower.
I spend a lot of time photographing flowers, and now I find a lot of joy in painting them as well. I was getting a little frustrated because I felt like it wasn't turning out exactly how I wanted, but then I realized that might make it more realistic. Flowers are all different (and unique and beautiful)!!!
Have a beautiful Wednesday!
-JB
Currently reading: SELF (yes, a magazine) :)
Currently listening to: Lee Ann Womack -"There is a God"
Today got off to a pretty great start for the week. I got a great work out in right off the bat this morning, and then I got to work on my crafts. I think tomorrow is going to be the day for the Etsy.com launch (finally)!! Woohoo!
I love knowing that I'm getting closer and closer to my goals. And I think that the little things in life are often my motivators - the things that make me smile are the things that keep me going. For example, right now, whenever I open up my laptop, this is what greets me:
Today while I was painting, it hit me that the same amount of detail and care goes in to each flower.
Have a beautiful Wednesday!
-JB
Currently reading: SELF (yes, a magazine) :)
Currently listening to: Lee Ann Womack -"There is a God"
Monday, May 30, 2011
What a Vibrant Weekend...
My hubby and I had a fabulous 3 days off together! All in all it was a relaxing break from the daily grind. I think this photo sums it all up... peaceful, still, and soaking up some rays. :)
On our way back down we saw a huge snapping turtle. There was a boy scout leader there that was trying to see if he could get him to snap. This snapper's legs were incredible, and he had a very peculiar tail.
We didn't get home until about 4! So it goes without saying that we slept until noon.
What a terrific holiday weekend! I hope yours was great too!
What adventures did you have??
Sleep well tonight and have a great Monday!
-JB
In Saturday's blog I told you about hiking up this mountain...
...where we watched some kayakers down on the lake from our bird's eye view.
There was a lot of gorgeous mountain laurel blooming near the rock cliff.
On our way back down we saw a huge snapping turtle. There was a boy scout leader there that was trying to see if he could get him to snap. This snapper's legs were incredible, and he had a very peculiar tail.
When we made it back to the lake, my parents were there with a delicious picnic all ready for us! Then after the great hike and lunch, I hit the lake in the kayak while the hubs kicked back and did some Hidato. (Whatdya think... describe our personalities?)
If you look closely, you can see the rock cliff on the peak of the mountain.
We even stumbled upon this awesomely bright two-toned butterfly!!!
All in all, our day at the lake was terrific! I can't wait to go back!!
Tired yet? That was just Saturday!
On Sunday, we met up with these super cool kids for some drive-in fun.
We showed up way early because we wanted to ensure a great spot... and we got one!
While we waited, I got these photos :)
We didn't get home until about 4! So it goes without saying that we slept until noon.
What a terrific holiday weekend! I hope yours was great too!
What adventures did you have??
Sleep well tonight and have a great Monday!
-JB
Saturday, May 28, 2011
Bound and determined!
Today is the day my hubby and I had been waiting for all winter. Last summer we had climbed an amazing mountain near where I was living, and we had talked and talked through all of the snowflakes about doing it again. We both had realized that as the dreary cold months continued on that we felt like we were getting out of shape, but there's nothing like looking at a huge mountain to bring the "health reality check" to life.
I am out of shape. There are no ifs, ands, or buts about it. I realized it about a fourth of the way up the mountain, and I came back down bound and determined to do something about it. I need to brainstorm and create a plan of attack. When I was first out of college, I could run 3 miles no problem. I was in great shape... and I felt great. And that is where I am going to be again. There are many more mountains in my future, and I need to be in great shape to climb them.
So it's set. I'm getting in shape!! Woohoo!
Check back tomorrow to see all of the awesome pictures from today! It will be an awesome photo story chronicling the adventure!
As for now, I'm off to watch Country Strong with the hubby! Have a nice evening!
-JB
I am out of shape. There are no ifs, ands, or buts about it. I realized it about a fourth of the way up the mountain, and I came back down bound and determined to do something about it. I need to brainstorm and create a plan of attack. When I was first out of college, I could run 3 miles no problem. I was in great shape... and I felt great. And that is where I am going to be again. There are many more mountains in my future, and I need to be in great shape to climb them.
So it's set. I'm getting in shape!! Woohoo!
Check back tomorrow to see all of the awesome pictures from today! It will be an awesome photo story chronicling the adventure!
As for now, I'm off to watch Country Strong with the hubby! Have a nice evening!
-JB
It's Friday!
I can hardly believe it's Friday! This week has been fantastic and so busy! I feel like I have so much to catch up on... the week has breezed by.
First of all, I'm sorry I didn't post anything last night. It seems like most of the state got hit with a zinger of a storm - that left me hiding in the little downstairs bathroom for close to an hour. I never dreamed to plan that activity in to my day! Anyways, it was a set back to my evening - and I didn't want to miss "So You Think You Can Dance!"
This week has been terrific for getting out and exercising! My friend Bri has been in town the last 4 days, and we had a walking date the last 3. Needless to say my body is feeling the burn, and I've been a bit more tired in the evening than I usually am... regardless, I have been so happy to get back out and exercising! I plan to keep up the work outs once she goes back home ~ and she and I are talking about doing a food journal together!! This would be terrific accountability for us both. So I'm super excited about us starting that together :-D.
What else....
Ahhhh, yes, you all are waiting for my announcement.
*drum roll please*
Next week my Etsy.com site is going to go live! I am going to give it a shot trying to sell some of my prints and other pieces I have done! I will post the official link once it is up, but it's a huge step for me to announce I'm doing this - because it means it's really happening!
If you currently use Esty.com and you have any advice for me, I would love to hear it! Please send me a message - any messages of wisdom or encouragement would be so appreciated. You can contact me at oneofthelovebugs@gmail.com.
I'm also sad to say that this week we fell a little short of the amount of feedback I needed for the giveaway!
So here's what I am going to do. I'm going to extend it in to next week. I want so much to give something away - I'm a photographer, a stamper, a scrapbooker, and a bit of a painter, so my giveaway is AWESOME! Get in on it!!!
We need 10 comments, follows, adds or shares from 10 different people.
LET THE FUN BEGIN!
I hope you all have a fun and safe Saturday - I'm planning on it!!! :)
-JB
First of all, I'm sorry I didn't post anything last night. It seems like most of the state got hit with a zinger of a storm - that left me hiding in the little downstairs bathroom for close to an hour. I never dreamed to plan that activity in to my day! Anyways, it was a set back to my evening - and I didn't want to miss "So You Think You Can Dance!"
This week has been terrific for getting out and exercising! My friend Bri has been in town the last 4 days, and we had a walking date the last 3. Needless to say my body is feeling the burn, and I've been a bit more tired in the evening than I usually am... regardless, I have been so happy to get back out and exercising! I plan to keep up the work outs once she goes back home ~ and she and I are talking about doing a food journal together!! This would be terrific accountability for us both. So I'm super excited about us starting that together :-D.
What else....
Ahhhh, yes, you all are waiting for my announcement.
*drum roll please*
Next week my Etsy.com site is going to go live! I am going to give it a shot trying to sell some of my prints and other pieces I have done! I will post the official link once it is up, but it's a huge step for me to announce I'm doing this - because it means it's really happening!
If you currently use Esty.com and you have any advice for me, I would love to hear it! Please send me a message - any messages of wisdom or encouragement would be so appreciated. You can contact me at oneofthelovebugs@gmail.com.
I'm also sad to say that this week we fell a little short of the amount of feedback I needed for the giveaway!
So here's what I am going to do. I'm going to extend it in to next week. I want so much to give something away - I'm a photographer, a stamper, a scrapbooker, and a bit of a painter, so my giveaway is AWESOME! Get in on it!!!
We need 10 comments, follows, adds or shares from 10 different people.
LET THE FUN BEGIN!
I hope you all have a fun and safe Saturday - I'm planning on it!!! :)
-JB
Thursday, May 26, 2011
Thinking through transition...
I've been spending a lot of time lately thinking about my dreams. I've been in this time of transition (moving and looking for a new job) for a little while, and it causes me to really do some soul searching - just about every day.
I'm really ready for my next part of the journey, but while I am in this place, I have been trying to make the most of it. I've been working to increase my number of stock photos, and am ready to pursue having them published... the time is here to take that step. I'm also going to look in to doing some freelance work. There is one other part to this huge step - but I will save that announcement for Friday!
I would love for more of you to comment, follow, and share so that you can get yourself in the running for this week's giveaway! (I need to have at least ten names in the hat for the drawing, and we're only about half way there!)
Hope your week is going great!
Tune in for a longer post tomorrow... I'm rather tired this evening! Goodnight :-)
-JB
I'm really ready for my next part of the journey, but while I am in this place, I have been trying to make the most of it. I've been working to increase my number of stock photos, and am ready to pursue having them published... the time is here to take that step. I'm also going to look in to doing some freelance work. There is one other part to this huge step - but I will save that announcement for Friday!
I would love for more of you to comment, follow, and share so that you can get yourself in the running for this week's giveaway! (I need to have at least ten names in the hat for the drawing, and we're only about half way there!)
Hope your week is going great!
Tune in for a longer post tomorrow... I'm rather tired this evening! Goodnight :-)
-JB
Tuesday, May 24, 2011
Blossoms of all kinds!
What a beautiful day. :)
It was finally a warm sunny day without rain, so I was very excited. This called for a trip to the greenhouse... and I'm happy to report that I brought home 3 beautiful tomato plants and a cucumber plant! I also bought a vibrant pot of impatiens! It will be fun to share with you the progress with you as they sprout blossoms and grow.
I'm excited to show you some of my latest creations! One of my biggest surprises this week has to do with a few of the projects I have been working on lately. Since I'm not quite ready for my big surprise yet, I will share a canvas I painted for our home! I wanted a unique piece of art for a blank wall in our upstairs bathroom, and after shopping for a while, I decided that it would be a great opportunity to design something myself! So here it is!
A few blogs ago I mentioned that the great folks at the Wayside Inn gave us a beautiful bouquet of fresh roses on our honeymoon.
I wanted to keep them forever as reminder of our honeymoon and the wonderful stay we had there, so I decided to press them. After a month and a half in a book, I felt confident they were "ready". Today I retrieved them, and they are gorgeous!
I know exactly how I want to preserve them, and I will show you tomorrow. I am super excited about the finished project!
Check back tomorrow for more excitement! Don't forget about the shoutout, share, and smiles for this week! They will get you automatically entered in my giveaway!!!
I hope your week is going well so far!
Leave me something to smile about :-D
-JB
Currently Reading: "Heaven is for Real" - Todd Burpo (almost done!)
Currently Listening to: "Without You" - Keith Urban
Monday, May 23, 2011
Shoutouts, Shares, and GIVEAWAYS!
Happy Monday!!! This is going to be such an incredible week!
Last week I felt a lot like this squirrel...
But today I have a jump in my step, and I feel like this...
I have so many delightful things to share with you all in the next few days. :-)
I'm going to start off with what I am most excited about - there will be a giveaway at the end of the week! I'm not going to say what it is yet, but what I will tell you is that it has to do with one of the amazing things that is going to take flight this week! Check back for more details! I will reveal more and more day by day, and it's so exciting!
I think right now, the bigger deal is how you get in the running for the giveaway! Here's what I need a little help with - I'd love to have people follow me, love to see what comments and feedback you have for me, and I'd love for you to share my blog with your friends! So, let me in on what you're doing, thinking, and saying, and for each shoutout, share, or smile, I will put your name in a drawing for the end of the week! (And let me tell you, it'll be worth it!)
-JB
Currently Reading: "Crafting a Business" - Kathie Fitzgerald
Currently Listening to: "Just a Kiss" - Lady Antebellum (Check it out!!! It's awesome!)
Last week I felt a lot like this squirrel...
But today I have a jump in my step, and I feel like this...
I have so many delightful things to share with you all in the next few days. :-)
I'm going to start off with what I am most excited about - there will be a giveaway at the end of the week! I'm not going to say what it is yet, but what I will tell you is that it has to do with one of the amazing things that is going to take flight this week! Check back for more details! I will reveal more and more day by day, and it's so exciting!
I think right now, the bigger deal is how you get in the running for the giveaway! Here's what I need a little help with - I'd love to have people follow me, love to see what comments and feedback you have for me, and I'd love for you to share my blog with your friends! So, let me in on what you're doing, thinking, and saying, and for each shoutout, share, or smile, I will put your name in a drawing for the end of the week! (And let me tell you, it'll be worth it!)
-JB
Currently Reading: "Crafting a Business" - Kathie Fitzgerald
Currently Listening to: "Just a Kiss" - Lady Antebellum (Check it out!!! It's awesome!)
Sunday, May 22, 2011
What is it with me and flowers???
Wow... Spring is really flying by. We are officially less than a month from the start of summer! Yay!
Last summer was completely amazing, and I am so excited to kick off another wonderful season of drive-ins, picnics in the park, and digging my toes in the sand. I was a "summer baby", so it holds a special place in my heart - plus, who doesn't love ice cream cones, summer nights, and outdoor concerts?
All of the photos in today's blog are throwbacks. I have a lot of photos from my pre-blogging days that I would love to share, so I intermittently toss them in as a "special".
My hubby is always telling me that it seems like I focus on flowers in my photographs. Part of the reason is my love for "macro photography". It seems like the smaller the object is, the easier (and more naturally) the photograph comes to me. However, I have been working on landscapes and portraits, and I'm getting pretty good at them! :-)
The other part of my love for photographing flowers is due to their extreme natural beauty. I think that there are so many beautiful things about each of us - no matter how different we all may be. Flowers are the same way! My best friend lives in North Carolina, and even though we are not Duke fans (GO UNC!), there is one good reason to visit their campus - the gardens. Last summer, I visited this paradise for my second time with my boyfriend (who became my fiance on the same trip, and he's now my hubby!). He's not usually much for flowers, but I think he really enjoyed our time there. If you ever make it down to the Durham area and have some free time, I hope you'll go check it out! In the meantime, here are some photos from Duke Gardens to hold you over. :)
I hope you all have a great start to your week - and make sure you take the time to look for some natural beauty around you!!
-JB
Currently Reading: "Heaven is for Real" - Todd Burpo
Currently Listening to: "This" - Darius Rucker
Last summer was completely amazing, and I am so excited to kick off another wonderful season of drive-ins, picnics in the park, and digging my toes in the sand. I was a "summer baby", so it holds a special place in my heart - plus, who doesn't love ice cream cones, summer nights, and outdoor concerts?
All of the photos in today's blog are throwbacks. I have a lot of photos from my pre-blogging days that I would love to share, so I intermittently toss them in as a "special".
My hubby is always telling me that it seems like I focus on flowers in my photographs. Part of the reason is my love for "macro photography". It seems like the smaller the object is, the easier (and more naturally) the photograph comes to me. However, I have been working on landscapes and portraits, and I'm getting pretty good at them! :-)
The other part of my love for photographing flowers is due to their extreme natural beauty. I think that there are so many beautiful things about each of us - no matter how different we all may be. Flowers are the same way! My best friend lives in North Carolina, and even though we are not Duke fans (GO UNC!), there is one good reason to visit their campus - the gardens. Last summer, I visited this paradise for my second time with my boyfriend (who became my fiance on the same trip, and he's now my hubby!). He's not usually much for flowers, but I think he really enjoyed our time there. If you ever make it down to the Durham area and have some free time, I hope you'll go check it out! In the meantime, here are some photos from Duke Gardens to hold you over. :)
I hope you all have a great start to your week - and make sure you take the time to look for some natural beauty around you!!
-JB
Currently Reading: "Heaven is for Real" - Todd Burpo
Currently Listening to: "This" - Darius Rucker
Saturday, May 21, 2011
Sweatpants, Sushi, and Saturday...
Blessings in life come in all kinds of different forms. Yesterday, so many people blessed me, and that made me so happy. I love all of the people in my life - you are my support system! I am so thankful for you!
I have a terrific husband as well that is always boxing in my corner. Today he gave me a lazy day... you know the kind, we laid around in our comfy clothes while watching "Happy Feet", and we got some awesome sushi takeout from our favorite little Japanese place. I clearly needed this.
We had our takeout picnic style -
So fun!! and yummy!!
We got out of the house for a little bit this afternoon to go biking. Now the hubby and I are willing to admit that we've both developed a bit of "relationship gut", but I don't think I had realized how out of shape I have gotten. Next weekend, we are planning on hiking up a mountain near our house... and let's just say, I've got some serious work to do this week to prepare. So each day with my regular post, I'll let you know what I did to get active! Maybe it'll help you to get out if you're in my shoes, or if you exercise regularly, you can help me! Either way, it'll be a good thing!
Hope you all are having a nice Saturday!
-JB
Currently Reading: "Heaven is for Real" by Todd Burpo
I have a terrific husband as well that is always boxing in my corner. Today he gave me a lazy day... you know the kind, we laid around in our comfy clothes while watching "Happy Feet", and we got some awesome sushi takeout from our favorite little Japanese place. I clearly needed this.
We had our takeout picnic style -
So fun!! and yummy!!
We got out of the house for a little bit this afternoon to go biking. Now the hubby and I are willing to admit that we've both developed a bit of "relationship gut", but I don't think I had realized how out of shape I have gotten. Next weekend, we are planning on hiking up a mountain near our house... and let's just say, I've got some serious work to do this week to prepare. So each day with my regular post, I'll let you know what I did to get active! Maybe it'll help you to get out if you're in my shoes, or if you exercise regularly, you can help me! Either way, it'll be a good thing!
Hope you all are having a nice Saturday!
-JB
Currently Reading: "Heaven is for Real" by Todd Burpo
Friday, May 20, 2011
Overwhelmed...
I feel like I've been through the washer. I don't want to get up here on my pedestal and complain, so instead I'm going to ask for prayers.
I'm overwhelmed. There are so many things that inspire me, and I am starting to get lost in the cloud of all of my dreams. I want to be somebody. Somebody that is known for being good at something - so I do a lot of different things. I do stamping, I make cards, I recently bought materials to make jewelery, and I am always taking photos (my God given gift).
I've been wanting to start up my etsy shop, but I struggle with feeling like I don't have enough great things to market. Like a certain writer I know, I worry that my stuff isn't good enough and that eventually someone is going to tell me so.
I hope and pray that you all will leave me words of encouragement and advice.
-JB
I'm overwhelmed. There are so many things that inspire me, and I am starting to get lost in the cloud of all of my dreams. I want to be somebody. Somebody that is known for being good at something - so I do a lot of different things. I do stamping, I make cards, I recently bought materials to make jewelery, and I am always taking photos (my God given gift).
I've been wanting to start up my etsy shop, but I struggle with feeling like I don't have enough great things to market. Like a certain writer I know, I worry that my stuff isn't good enough and that eventually someone is going to tell me so.
I hope and pray that you all will leave me words of encouragement and advice.
-JB
Thursday, May 19, 2011
Don't miss "the moments"...
I had been waiting for a rainbow all week.
Yesterday before dinner, my hubby came in from work and said "I think you're going to get your wish." He walked out onto our back patio, and excitedly came back in announcing loudly that my moment was here. I shifted into "go mode" to get my camera, ran outside, and when I went to turn it on, the only thing that happened was this message - "change battery pack" (<- and it looks just like that in an ominous red print).
So I'm not going to lie, my initial reaction was to feel pretty angry. Granted, it was my fault it was dead, but still, I'd waited all week for this. And the real kicker was that I had used the camera the evening before and I had two power bars left. Since it was dead without reason, I ran inside and traded it for an old point and shoot Canon. The shots I got weren't nearly as exciting as what I had hoped for, so I put that camera down as well and just enjoyed the moment.
Lots of times I think photographers can get so caught up in wanting the perfect shot, that we forgot to enjoy where we are and what we are experiencing. Sometimes the same thing happens in life - we are just to busy to enjoy what is happening right where we are. While I have included one of my shots, I realized something long after the rainbow was gone - the rainbow was for me. I'm sure you've had a week that has been particularly trying, and that is where I am this week. The moment with the rainbow was for me to soak it in, remembering the peace, love, and hope that rainbows symbolize.
I hope that as "the moments" come and go in your day to day life that you take the time to enjoy them. Whether it's a happy song you hear an older gentleman whistling through the grocery store, a stranger holding the door for you, or a rainbow after the storm, let it be the reminder in your day that there is something to smile about.
I hope you are all having a good week :)
-JB
Yesterday before dinner, my hubby came in from work and said "I think you're going to get your wish." He walked out onto our back patio, and excitedly came back in announcing loudly that my moment was here. I shifted into "go mode" to get my camera, ran outside, and when I went to turn it on, the only thing that happened was this message - "change battery pack" (<- and it looks just like that in an ominous red print).
So I'm not going to lie, my initial reaction was to feel pretty angry. Granted, it was my fault it was dead, but still, I'd waited all week for this. And the real kicker was that I had used the camera the evening before and I had two power bars left. Since it was dead without reason, I ran inside and traded it for an old point and shoot Canon. The shots I got weren't nearly as exciting as what I had hoped for, so I put that camera down as well and just enjoyed the moment.
Lots of times I think photographers can get so caught up in wanting the perfect shot, that we forgot to enjoy where we are and what we are experiencing. Sometimes the same thing happens in life - we are just to busy to enjoy what is happening right where we are. While I have included one of my shots, I realized something long after the rainbow was gone - the rainbow was for me. I'm sure you've had a week that has been particularly trying, and that is where I am this week. The moment with the rainbow was for me to soak it in, remembering the peace, love, and hope that rainbows symbolize.
I hope that as "the moments" come and go in your day to day life that you take the time to enjoy them. Whether it's a happy song you hear an older gentleman whistling through the grocery store, a stranger holding the door for you, or a rainbow after the storm, let it be the reminder in your day that there is something to smile about.
I hope you are all having a good week :)
-JB
Wednesday, May 18, 2011
Things that make me smile...
It's raining again today.
I know that the rain makes the grass soft and green, and inspires the beautiful flowers to shoot up and blossom, but today I just feel like it makes me soggy. I don't particularly like driving in the rain. It doesn't really inspire me to do great things. When it's raining I want to relax on the couch watching HGTV. While that is a fun way to spend the day occasionally, that isn't what this Wednesday had in store for me... so I packed it all up and am finding my inspiration in Panera with some good ole caffeine.
After getting what felt like a second shower on the walk from the car to the door, I decided that I needed a good smile. I have some pictures on my laptop for an occasion such as this. These are all photos taken with my iPhone - so the quality isn't as great as I like, but they make me smile.
Maybe you need a smile today as much as I do, so I'm going to share these with you all.
Enjoy!
I know that the rain makes the grass soft and green, and inspires the beautiful flowers to shoot up and blossom, but today I just feel like it makes me soggy. I don't particularly like driving in the rain. It doesn't really inspire me to do great things. When it's raining I want to relax on the couch watching HGTV. While that is a fun way to spend the day occasionally, that isn't what this Wednesday had in store for me... so I packed it all up and am finding my inspiration in Panera with some good ole caffeine.
After getting what felt like a second shower on the walk from the car to the door, I decided that I needed a good smile. I have some pictures on my laptop for an occasion such as this. These are all photos taken with my iPhone - so the quality isn't as great as I like, but they make me smile.
Maybe you need a smile today as much as I do, so I'm going to share these with you all.
Enjoy!
my friends' brand new baby - her name is Maci.
my nephew wearing my scarf.
relaxation.
the flowers that the spring showers bring.
Have a nice evening :)
-JB
Tuesday, May 17, 2011
To Charleston, With Love
If you like to travel, I'm sure you've found a spot that you call your home away from home. It's that place that has "your" beach, "your" favorite diner, or "your" favorite spot. Charleston, SC has all of this (and more) for me. Oh, and I get annoyed when the tourists don't know where they're going - because I certainly don't consider myself one.
I live in the north, was born in the north, and I don't have a Southern accent, but in a lot of ways, I wish I was a real Carolina girl. Someday down the road, I could see the hubby and I packing up and making a permanent resident in the Palmetto State. For now, I'll settle for having a "Southern State of Mind" (Darius Rucker reference).
I live in the north, was born in the north, and I don't have a Southern accent, but in a lot of ways, I wish I was a real Carolina girl. Someday down the road, I could see the hubby and I packing up and making a permanent resident in the Palmetto State. For now, I'll settle for having a "Southern State of Mind" (Darius Rucker reference).
my dream beach house.
on the isle of the palms.
night sky from the water.
the new cooper river bridge from the water.
I can't wait to get back down to good ole SC.
In the mean time, "No matter what state I'm in, I'm in a southern state of mind." (Darius Rucker)
-JB
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