Featured {Shabby} Blogger

It has been ages since I featured one of our outstanding Shabby Bloggers and to say that this is overdue is just plain silly.  It's shameful, that's what.  Sigh.  But the particular blogger I'm featuring is definitely worth the wait!

Meet Michelle!

Blog: A Pinch of Prim

The first time I happened upon Michelle's blog {A Pinch of Prim} I think I GOL'd.  That's like LOL, but with a gasp instead of a laugh.  Her talent was literally startling to me.  Talk about mad skills and swoon-worthy goodness!  She makes these gorgeous paperclay pieces that are just the most darling and whimsical things you've ever seen.  Eeeeep!  Don't believe me?  Check these out:

I told you, right?  Craaaaazy!  Can you imagine being able to just...make things like that...with your own hands...and your own brain...and your own paperclay???  I've got to be honest.  I don't even know what the heck paperclay is exactly, but if you can make things like this with it, you better believe I'm going to find out!

"Hello local college!

Classes on making lovely things with paperclay?

Why, yes!

Tomorrow?

Absofruitly!

I'll even wear something besides pajama pants!"

Just so inspired over here.  I love a blog that inspires, don't you?  Such a delightful thing to stumble upon.  And, to add awesomeness to awesomeness, it turns out that the person behind it all, Miss Michelle, is as sweet as her creations.  I know because I had the privilege of getting to know her a little through the process of ordering my own little pinch of prim.  Did you see that "Ally-Gator" up there?  Well it was like Christmas over here the day she arrived in the mail.  My little 3-year-old Ally was more reverent when we opened that box than I have ever seen her behave in church.  It was priceless!  These special pieces of artwork, this lovely blog, and the wonderful woman behind them are all such sweet treasures.  Please hop over and get to know Michelle from A Pinch of Prim!

Side Note: Seriously, someone needs to purchase her latest daaaaarling piece because it is absolutely going to belong to me if you don't.  Two words:  Pink.  Hair.  Two more words:  Pink.  Bird.  KILLING me!

Other Side Note: Miss Keren Dukes is the smarty pants behind Michelle's header made to match one of our SB backgrounds.  Love that!

Featured {Shabby} Bloggers

It's been waaay too long since I have featured some of your outstanding blogs. I can never narrow it down, so this time I am featuring two. Yep. I decided I can do that. Heck, next time I may do three or four. :) Without further ado...

Daisy Pink Cupcake
I stumbled upon this blog ages ago when I was searching for a bit of decorating inspiration...and it has been a favorite of mine ever since. Seeing that Daisy is a SB fan was just icing on the cupcake. :) When you visit, be sure to keep a tissue handy because you are going to be doing a lot of drooling...and sighing. Sighing and drooling. To visit her blog is to be inspired. When I am short on time, but want a quick dose of loveliness, Daisy Pink Cupcake never disappoints. Go see for yourself! You will become an instant fan.

Family of Four
I was so excited to meet Jenni over at Family of Four. She is such a sweetheart! Not only is she ridiculously gorgeous, but she knows exactly how to make each post pop. Her blog is the perfect example of how a little extra goes a long way. She makes everything she does look good. Please go visit Jenni and get to know her better. She is one cool mom!

Awesome, right? Get over there and give them some Shabby lovin' then!

Next up? New headers. Let me know which background you would like a header for on the Shabby Blogs Facebook page!

Featured {Shabby} Blogger

Oh, I loooove this blogger! Though she is relatively new to the blogging world, she is already one of my favorites. Heaven only knows where this girl's blogging journey will lead her, but the sky is the limit for a triple threat who is hilarious, sweet, and inspiring. She's also a Crafty McCrafterson with some truly fabulous ideas. Because we are both adoptive mothers and share a love for a good hot dog octopus, I just know we would be instant friends if we ever met in real life. This girl totally makes me LOL. I know you will just adore her!

Meet Jessica!
Blog: Two Shades of Pink

Here is my interview with our latest Featured {Shabby} Blogger herself:

Me: When and why did you start blogging?
Jess: I started blogging in July 2009. Technically it was July 2008 after my youngest daughter was born and I had started a family web site so family and friends could check out up to date photos. But I found myself "journaling" a lot more than posting pictures. After Ella was born I struggled with post partum depression (not realizing it at the time) but my journaling still revealed the real me, the one who deals with life with humor and needs to laugh to get through the stuff that is not so funny in the moment. I realized I needed an outlet. It was a leap of faith to start a blog that is "out there" in the webby world. I did it to kind of vent out my life while incorporating dashes of other aspects of who I am. Like my incredible and miraculous story of becoming a mom that took 8 posts! My crafty side that is residing at amateur status but I love it. Or like today when I was brushing my hair and trying to be stealth like so as to not wake my girls from their nap and end my 90 minutes of tranquility. As I was putting my hair into a pony tail, the brush falls right into the toilet. You know. The one I had not flushed since flushing a toilet seems to wake the dead in my house. I just looked down at the thing sticking straight up with toilet paper in it's bristles, walked out of the room to retrieve my camera and snapped a picture with the thought, "This is so blog worthy."


Me: What is your favorite thing about your blog?
Jess: Hard to pick just one because my blog represents so much of who I am. So I will cheat and say more than one. The fact that I write the way I talk. I also give you a glimpse of an inner monologue of what I am thinking. A lot of it comes out humorous although the circumstances or situations I write about are not always funny at the time. My SHABULOUS background and header!! Shameless plug for Meg here, but um, helloooo? She is amazing and what a platform to say it HERE! Love how often I can change it. It is like getting a new outfit. Love, it, love it, love it. I also love that as I write about the girls I am leaving a heritage of their childhood to them. Thoughts, emotions, and experiences caught in time that would otherwise be forgotten and fade into the past. They will read this one day and learn about their lives, and perhaps know their mom a little bit more than they already do.


Me: What 3 things most inspire you?
Jess: 1. Jesus. My faith is so much of who I am and I consistently strive to do 2 things. One is to dispel the notion that Christians are dull and out of touch and showcase that it actually is hip to be square. The second is to be transparent. I think it is so important to be honest about imperfections, mistakes, and even failures. Because they all help us grow. For so long I tried to act like I had it together putting on a daily show of a complete façade. My blog is a place to say I really don't have it together and I am going to be candid about it.

2. Oh, definitely my funny, sweet, mischievous, and sometimes naughty girls.

3. Stressful and trying moments that turn into stories of hilarity when told. I honestly think that I daily find things funny. Maybe I am a little crazy but there are those moments I want to capture but life just keeps us chugging along. Like when my 3 year old told me with all sincerity, "Mommy! I looove your outfit! It is soooooo adorable!" I was wearing my pajamas with strawberry stains down the front. This was also moments after I walked in her room to see her pushing her crying little sister into a closet with her feet.

Me: Besides your blog, what interests/hobbies do you have?
Jess: I love being crafty. But there is no specific way to describe what I do. Maybe an Eclectic Crafter? I love fabric, felt, distressing furniture, sometimes I paint, whatever. I am an average sewer and kind of wing it and I love sharing my creations on my blog. I love to bake. I go running when the jeans get tight. Which is often. Because I bake. What else? Eating. What a favorite past time that is. Why, oh why is food so good? But already you see the vicious cycle, right? Bake, eat, run, repeat.


Me: Do you have any advice or tips for new bloggers?
Jess: Being the veteran I am of 4 months my first response would be...I have no clue. But as I sit here I think a few things have worked for me but it is an ongoing pep talk to maintain this mentality.

1. I should literally have a bumper sticker that reads "Don't Blog For Comments." Then I could hold myself accountable to this very advice I can't seem to follow. But what I have realized is if I do it for readers, I am losing sight of my purpose. I want others to be encouraged, to relate, to laugh, to cry, to rejoice, to know me. But there are days I feel like I need to be on stage and that is when I can become discouraged due to my perspective getting a little off. I love to write and I need to do it as if no one is reading. So my advice is to do just that because you will be more authentic regardless of your blogs's focus or purpose.

2. Don't be afraid to go outside the parameters of your blog theme or focus. I guess you can technically call me a Mommy Blogger but I am not always blogging about the mommy thing. I knew this would happen so in my very first post and in my header I kind of give a synopsis of what to expect. One day I had a serious post about my journey with infertility. A few days later I post a pic of chicken nuggets with toothpick arms/legs with grapes for hands/feet. It is fun to get other glimpses of a blogger.

3. Visit other blogs and leave comments. I know, I know. This negates number one but I think it is so important to encourage other bloggers. Plus, your blog might get some hits. But here is my personal spin...I don't do it just to get readers. I visit and read blogs with a sense of integrity. I leave comments when I am truly affected whether it is laughter, creative inspiration, being moved, or being challenged in my faith. Be genuine in both your writing and your following/comments. There are so many wonderful bloggers out there and letting them know how fabulous they are is all part of this fun, bloggy world.

Admit it. You totally love her, don't you? I know, right?!! Now, be a dear and jump over to Two Shades of Pink so you can give this girl some shabby love! :)

Featured {Shabby} Blogger

It's been a little while since I featured one of you amaaaazing bloggers. That's because it is just so hard to limit myself to ONE! You are all so incredible and I have loved peeking in on your blogs and getting little glimpses of your lives. Most recently, I followed a comment back to a blog and instantly knew it was the one I wanted to feature. So...without further ado...

Meet Becky!
Blog: Farm Girl Paints

Becky is a total sweetheart. Though I've never met her in person, I would bet you money she's the kind of girl who would leave flowers on your front porch "just because" or rush over some chicken noodle soup if you weren't feeling well. She's someone oozing with talent, but most likely utterly unaware of how brilliant she is. Her home decorating and projects are totally inspiring. Her art is whimsical and happy...the kinds of things that make you smile each time you see them. I soooo hope she opens an Etsy shop so I can snag something like this or one of these. After reading Becky's blog, I feel convinced that she is someone I would totally want to be friends with. I bet you would too. :)Here is my interview with our Featured {Shabby} Blogger herself:

ME: When and why did you begin blogging?

BECKY: I started my blog in December of 2008. I struggle with depression in the winter and living in Minnesota it's really a challenge. I needed a distraction, a way of coping and blogging has more than provided that for me. I also wanted to eventually start an Etsy store and I thought blogging would be a natural progression into that.

ME: What is your favorite thing about your blog?

BECKY: My blog makes me happy. I finally have it figured out...sort of:) It's cute (thanks to you) and my font for my header and titles look the way I want. But more important than looks, it is a great representation of me, which is what your blog should be. It's my voice. My way of sharing my life, my loves, my faith! What a privilege to be able to share that and for people to want to read along. It's amazing.

ME: What 3 things most inspire you?

BECKY: Daily life inspires me. I can be giving my dog a bath and blog post will come to mind. I get a lot of ideas while I'm running on the treadmill. Other bloggers definitely inspire me. There are so many amazingly talented people out there. It really is fascinating to see what others have to contribute.

ME: Besides blogging, what interests/hobbies do you have?

BECKY: I love to beautify things. There is nothing like repainting a piece of furniture or even the walls of a room. That's fun. I love to read and watch movies. Antiquing with a friend or going to dinner with my family are high on my list. I love traveling...not the actual travel part, but being in a new place.

ME: Do you have any advice or tips for new bloggers?

BECKY: Be true to who you are. If you're not yourself you won't stick with it. It's a lot of work growing a blog and it has be something you're passionate about. Leave lots of comments and visit your "followers" often. I have developed such wonderful friendships though blogging, and really that's the goal. Oh and make your blog attractive. It's not hard. Pay attention to your favorite blogs and make a list of what you like. Ask them for advice if you need it. Get a great background and a pretty picture for a header. It doesn't have to be hard. It makes a huge difference. Lastly, be patient. I blogged for several months before I had even one comment. If you keep at it, they will find you and when they do... it is such a gift!!

See? Total sweetheart. Jump over to Farm Girl Paints and give Becky some shabby love! :)

Featured {Shabby} Blogger

The cool thing about getting to choose who to feature here is that I get the opportunity to spotlight some people that most of you probably don't know. Don't get me wrong- blogs with 10,000 followers are great too. It's just that sometimes the coolest people are the ones who are out there, just quietly doing their thing, totally unaware of how remarkable they are. That said...

Meet Julie!
Blog: Mom. Wife. Camera.

Julie is awesome. I know I use that word a lot, but it's true. The girl is awesome. I didn't know her before she left a comment here, but I followed her back to her blog (yes- I do that!) and I am infinitely glad that I did. The second I saw her blog, I felt happy. Her music, her writing, her photography...oh, her photography! I could write a novel on how much I adore Julie's photos. She has got incredible talent, that girl! Her pictures have a sun-kissed quality that makes me want to sit on a big old porch and sip raspberry lemonade. They are dreamy like the most perfect days of childhood frozen blissfully in time. I actually found myself asking my husband how far it is to New York from where I live in North Carolina. If it wasn't so far, I'd be on her doorstep asking for a photo shoot and a lunch date...in a totally non-creepy way, of course. :) Besides possessing mad photography skills, Julie is just the kind of person you want to know. As Anne of Green Gables would say, she is a kindred spirit. She loves and appreciates the simple things in life. She is an optimist. She has a kind and open heart. I am so glad I met her and so glad I have the opportunity to introduce you to her as well. You will love her!

Here is my interview with this week's Featured {Shabby} Blogger herself:

Me: When and why did you start blogging?
Julie: Every mom will tell you, life speeds up with kids and it's very true. My home is circus-like and very loud. We're always on the go. Writing and blogging helps me feel like I am documenting things otherwise I might forget. And, in knowing how fast these kids grow and that someday this house will be lonely of the pitter patters, I can go back and remember, relive, and give thanks once again through pictures and words! Blogging started about a year ago. Our third-born was growing so fast and I realized I was already regretting not writing things down more. Every once in a while I would write about something that made me laugh or if I was just overwhelmed with the mooshy love I feel from the gift of mamahood! I have a 4-year-old, 3-year-old, and 1-year-old and I can't tell you how many times I thought, "Oh, I have to write that down... I don't want to miss this!" But I didn't, mostly due to the busyness of our lives. I began writing in a journal before bed at night and throughout the day I jot down thoughts, quotes from the kids, and events on pieces of paper, and slip them up in my journal for when I have time to elaborate more. Blogging for me really started Winter 2005 after Aiva was born. I was writing novel-length emails to girlfriends who were in college. They loved hearing about my adventures and the amount of love I was being filled with. They were so good to humor me, but I think now they're grateful they can pop on my blog and get a "shorter version with pics!" (A big shout out to Erin currently in Texas & Charlotte, in Germany!) * Sometimes I fear that others might get the feeling that I am "bragging" about my life through blogging, but really I'm just sharing my heart, loves, and mishaps in motherhood, and my pursuit in photography.

Me: What is your favorite thing about your blog?
Julie: Of course, the shabby blog layout, silly! I love the colors, swirls, and playfulness of the layout. And just how easy it was to install! (For the record, I did not pay her to say that.) I am thinking since you wrote me this request, I have to start blogging more often. I never thought really anyone would appreciate the things that unfold in my life. I am very blessed in this time and I can't be any more grateful or appreciate more where I am and where our lives are going. If someone else hops on my blog and gets a laugh or inspiration or an "aww" moment, that is pretty darn spiffy. I'm glad I and my little lovies under this roof could provide someone with a drop of sunshine for the day.

Me: What 3 things most inspire you?
Julie: My children (Aiva, Aidan, and Maive), nature, and God. All these things fill me up daily. I feel closest to God while I'm holding and loving on my little ones and when outdoors lost in the woods or weaving my way through a meadow. These are the things I love and that keep me going and what I probably will " blog" about most. I am currently in the works at becoming a professional natural light photographer. This past year I've been photographing families for free, which is a blessing to me and to them. I've learned so much and am looking forward to pushing my passion to a business. Learning to be a mom, striving to do the best with the privilege and responsibility of Motherhood. I appreciate it so much because when I was a baby myself, I had to go through a lot of testing to figure out what was wrong with me at the time. Doctors told my parents that I would never bare any children as a result. Now, 25 years later, here I am in a little home in the country with three children, two of which I would daydream of and pray for. God blessed me with the desires of my heart. I never even dreamed of Maive... and I'm glad I didn't because what a surprise to have a nurse place a bundled up blanket in my arms with a teeny face peering out at me with bright blue eyes and a RED MOWHAWK on top! She is my cherry on top!

Me: Besides blogging, what interests/hobbies do you have?

Julie: Reading, writing, photography, hiking, and I'm currently learning fly fishing from the hubster.

Me: Do you have any advice or tips for new bloggers?
Julie: I really am not one to talk. One of the things I want to even figure out today is how to do the tag list thing, then go through and tag all the past blogs. Only tip I have... blog from your heart. We all read blogs and think, "Wow, that is what I was thinking!" or "She writes really well. I wish I had thought to write that." You are you. Let "you" shine. Your life has something to give to the world so when you have something to write, blog from your heart. Apparently, as I am finding out from Megan's request, others will read, connect and appreciate it!

Please click on over to Mom. Wife. Camera. and give Julie some shabby love!!!

Featured {Shabby} Blogger

I have totally been stalling when it comes to choosing our first featured blogger. You have no idea how hard it has been to choose just one person to spotlight when there are so many seriously fabulous blogs I have discovered through your comments! I have "earmarked" several of you for future features. Holy talent! Having said that, on to our very first {Shabby} Featured Blogger...

Meet Virginia!
Blog: BlackFlipFlops

Virginia's blog, like so many of yours, is a blog I found myself wanting to explore. I don't know Virginia, but after clicking around on her blog a bit, I wanted to know her. The more I read, the more I wanted to read. There is something fun and light about her style of writing and her beautiful photographs are whimsical and dreamy. Virginia's kiddos are cuter than cupcakes and she does an amazing job capturing their personalities through her photography. They are going to loooove their mom for this awesome record when they are older! Besides that, this girl can craft! Oh, that I could do what she can do with some paper and a glue stick! I was drooling over this rad creation in particular, but the table she decorated was equally shabulous. All-in-all, BlackFlipFlops is a blog that is definitely worth checking out...especially if you are in the mood for a little inspiration. :)

Here is my interview with this week's Featured {Shabby} Blogger herself:

Me: When and why did you start blogging?

Virginia: I started a private blog for only a couple of friends to read when I moved out of state for a couple of years. It was a great way to stay in close touch with them. When we moved back here, I started my public blog in July of 2005. I had recently had my first child and was a brand new stay at home mom. It was a place where I could just be "me" and gather my thoughts... and share my day to day life.


Me: What is your favorite thing about your blog?

Virginia: My favorite thing about my blog is the way I have made new connections to other people, and that in turn has helped me to realize new things about myself. I love the sense of community blogging brings!

Me: What 3 things most inspire you?

Virginia: The three things that most inspire me: the grace of Jesus, the lives of my little family, and the colorful world we live in! I love color and am greatly affected by it, in my home decor, in the clothes we wear, in my photography, and in my scrapbooking.


Me: Besides blogging, what interests/hobbies do you have?

Virginia: I'm an avid scrapbooker, photographer, and reader! I love to play with paper and get my hands messy with paints and inks. I also love to decorate our 85 year old cottage and make it a creative environment. I do all of this in my spare time; you know, all that spare time I have after I'm done raising my four year old, three year old, 1 1/2 year old, and little baby on the way!

Me: Do you have any advice or tips for new bloggers?

Virginia: My advice for new bloggers... hehe, not sure if I'm entirely qualified to be handing out advice, BUT I would say stay consistent and always keep in mind who your audience is. As a local radio show always says, ask yourself if you were reading your blog- would you be entertained, informed, or would you just be plain bored?

*Now, please click on over to BlackFlipFlops and give our featured blogger some shabby love!!! YOU could be next! :)