An Update: Getting Real



Hello lovelies, I know it's been a while. Sometimes you just find yourself needing to take a step back to clear your head so you can focus on what really matters. It's amazing what some time away will do to gain a little perspective on things. 
In this challenge, Lara asks you to identify what one word resonates with you for this year? It's so hard to pick just one. These are the words that come to mind:
HEART
TRUTH
FULFILL
ACHIEVE
INSPIRE
CREATE
Lara is a real inspiration to me and so many other women out there. She reminds me every day how important it is to focus on what matters. For one, I focused on my home life. What does that mean besides getting an early start on spring cleaning? My marriage, for one (woah, did I just write 'my marriage'? When did I become a grown up?). In the back of my mind I knew I wasn't always giving it the full attention and care it deserved; does that ever happen to you? So I made a conscious effort to spend a lot less time on my phone when we were together and just enjoyed being in the moment. Doing more of the little things for eachother that really mean so much. Date nights are back.
During this time I also took this challenge, a 21-day detox consisting of very green and very tasty recipes (thanks Martha!). I lost about seven pounds and have more energy than I have in a long time. This was such a positive experience and one that has really changed my eating habits, for good. That's not to say I won't give in to those chocolate cravings every now and then though.

I've also been working hard on the Blushing and Sweet makeover and am so excited to start making some changes! I'm looking into designers to give her a pretty new look, so if you have any suggestions I would love to hear about them below.
It feels good to be back.
xxx

 

A Love So Deep


 
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From the Heart



Happy Valentine's friends! Do you have anything special planned?

I love what Anastasia Marie made for her then fiancé. She created this mini booklet and filled it with all the things she loved about him (quirky things and all!). It's always the gifts that are given a lot of thought and special care that mean the most. What's the most meaningful gift you've received from your love?


via: Anastasia Marie Cards


Valentine's Celebration





I love this little modern twist on Valentine's day - an intimate yet chic bachelorette party! What better time to celebrate the love between two people? The glitter and confetti add a festive touch and you really can't go wrong with cupcakes and champagne!










via: 100layercake


Making Things Happen - Goal Setting for 2013



 

Over the last few weeks I've started working on my goal setting for 2013. This year I've taken a different approach than the usual list (you know what I'm talking about: eat healthier, blah blah). But don't you find that it's not always easy sticking to that list for one reason or another? Maybe your expectations are unrealistic or most likely, too general. A month later you're back to your old ways again.

This blog post by Lara Casey of Making Things Happen, changed the way I set my goals. Fair warning - this isn't something you'll be able to do in an hour or even two. Take your time and really think about what you want. Pick a pretty notebook dedicated to your goal setting and write it all out. Trust me, you'll need a lot of pages for this! I also suggest copying the questions as well since you'll have to go back and read them. Let everything sink in and come back a few days later to continue.

It begins with a ten-step process. It's exactly that - a process, so there are more steps to be followed afterward. It's been eye-opening to say the least and I have to say that so far it's working. I'm implementing my goals into my daily life and everything is just coming naturally! I feel like I'm in touch with myself again. You'll see - try it out and let me know here what you think!

 Click here to start setting your goals. Make it Happen!

xoxo

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