I’m eager to share with you a few of the books I’ve read the last few months, along with what I’m currently reading. When I open a book and process the written words of truth, goodness & beauty, I am edified. My mind expands and my heart settles into a state of peace. As a… [Read More]
Living with joy and refreshment
Once upon a time there was a man who wanted to bring his wife a little joy and refreshment. He knew they were due for some time alone together, out of the house. As this man and woman were getting ready for their Saturday morning date, their children were playing underfoot. Little bottoms were bouncing… [Read More]
What it was like to write “offline” for three months!
She releases a strong puff of air, freeing the collection of dust on her computer. It flies upward, then dissipates. Well, hellooo! It’s been a few months since we’ve gathered here together. This writing space has been a part of my life for over a decade now, and so naturally I miss it while I’m… [Read More]
Thirteen thoughts in November.
Feeling so proud of all the writing I’ve accomplished this month. Here are my recent blog posts, in case you missed them: the colors of motherhood, learn how to watercolor with your children (includes a 25% off discount code), and a Gussy Sews holiday pop-up shop update. Bookmarking this beautiful movie! We watched it over the… [Read More]
it’s a Gussy Sews holiday pop-up shop!
They’re here! Inside my Gussy Sews shop are eight brand new pouches. They are perfectly ruffled, perfect in color, and perfect in size. This time around I’m offering two different sizes to help you stay organized as you go about your day. And, if you’re someone who changes bags often (like me), having a pouch… [Read More]
MAKE IT: learn to watercolor with your children!
Perhaps you’re like me and you really enjoy creating with your children, especially when it can be displayed year after year? In years past we’ve made decorations for our Christmas tree, but this year we are taking it up a notch. We are learning to watercolor! I am so very excited. Emily Lex of Jones… [Read More]
The colors of motherhood.
Last week after naps, I gathered my tribe of small people to zip coats and buckle seat belts. While out running errands we shopped for nail polish and birthday party things (my sweet Natalie has turned FIVE). I’ve never bought five bottles of nail polish before, but I suppose that’s what happens when you have two… [Read More]
What is your rhythm for self-care?
There’s a floral tray on my bedside table that holds my frequently reached-for items: a bobby pin to pin my hair back, peppermint chapstick, my eye glasses, a pen, my beloved perfume oil. They are simple tools, pretty tools, but I didn’t intentionally put together this collection of favorites. Rather, the rhythms of my life did…. [Read More]
Year 2: the beginning of our homeschool journey…
We’ve begun our second year of homeschooling, and it’s quite surprised me how well and how fast it’s skipping by. I absolutely love teaching my children, however this wasn’t something I considered for our family when I became a mom in 2013. As time as passed, as I’ve come to know my children and grow… [Read More]
What are you reading this summer?
Just yesterday the kids and I planted flowers in a variety of places around our home. We are outside a lot during the spring, summer and fall months, and I’m especially looking forward to the beauty flowers add to our daily life. In fact, I don’t mind the weeds growing in the cracks near the… [Read More]
How we paid off over $65,000 of debt in 3 years (debt freedom part two)
(click here to read PART ONE of our debt-free journey.) (Date night: Zack and I are celebrating our debt freedom) Are you ready for this amazing, achievable announcement? Zack and I made our final debt payment on March 27th, 2019 ~ we are finally debt free! We worked so hard for three years and paid… [Read More]
On seeing the small details…
Last week I sat outside with my older two children and read a book, which was very much not the plan I had envisioned for quiet time. Moments before I had been reading inside on the couch but soon I was invited outside to see their newly built fort. They had the beach umbrella set… [Read More]
Learn to sew your own clothes! (NEW online course)
Fellow creatives: the ever inspiring Elise Cripe has created an online sewing course focused around garment sewing. Can you even believe it? I’m personally thrilled for her newest creative endeavor. I mean, yes! Go Elise, go! For just $28 Elise will guide you through 13 written lessons, 6 step-by-step video tutorials of common techniques, and a… [Read More]
Look at those NEW Gussy ruffles!
Hello, hello! It’s really the greatest gift for me as a creative to make time for my interests. This is something I’ve had to work towards doing well, though, because as a creative I often get “lost” in the present. My husband Zack gently nudges me at just the right time, which is why I’m here… [Read More]
Exercising, getting out of the house, and how to stay calm with young children…
Before I answer your questions I want to know: have you heard the birds singing outside your window yet? I have, which means spring is near! As a Michigan dweller, this is very exciting. The birds that flutter outside our windows are precious to me. Their songs are a comfort after a long stretch of… [Read More]