presents...as promised.

I hope you've been thinking of how you can be celebrating in your own home at this time of year. Like I said last week, IT DOESN'T HAVE TO BE ANYTHING BIG! It can be something as little as bringing in flowers to your table, to remind you of the new life that occurs at this time of year. Or switching out the books on your coffee table so your kids can remember what this season is about.

We'll link up on Friday in the comment section and then come visit each other. I can't wait!!

Ok...on to the good stuff...

When I was a little girl I had a record player...yes, I'm that old. A blue and white striped record player, that was awesome. And even though I loved putting on my Disney storybook records (or Michael Jackson...you know), some of my favorite records were of Christmas music. My sister would get so irritated with me that in the middle of the summer I would have Christmas music blaring from our room that was only divided by a set of folding doors. Well, even though now I make myself wait until after Thanksgiving to blare my Christmas music, I've begun a new tradition with my family around Easter.

I love having an Easter CD each year that has songs that remind me of celebrating this season. Usually through the year, there are songs that I hear or come to love that seem to fit perfectly with Easter, so I figured, why not have Easter music, too!?

So, as a fun favor for celebrating with me on Friday, I'll give each of your your very own Easter CD, wrapped up by hand (of course!) to encourage you to continue celebrating even after Easter weekend has passed.

Now, for three lucky people participating we'll have a drawing to win one of these fun gifts! A signed copy of Grace for the Good Girl, written by my sweet friend Emily, a fun homemade change purse, made lovingly by hand by Handmade Recess, and a bird pendant necklace made by my dear friend Stephanie. I know y'all have heard me chat about them before, but I couldn't help myself from these fun gifts for this time of year.

image credits: http://img1.etsystatic.com/il_fullxfull.276931421.jpg

Saturday Shopping...

Well, I think it's fair to say that I have some of the coolest friends in the world. Not only are they incredibly kind and compassionate, but several have hidden talent and creativity that seems to be bursting to life. Not to mention, they have great prices!

For your Saturday viewing pleasure, I thought I would show off a few of them to you. These beautiful women work from home, and do simple marketing with tools like Etsy and Facebook, and have each begun home businesses designing what they love to make.

saucy mama

First of all, my dear friend Stephanie, has beautiful jewelry. Her business is called Saucy Mama, and she designs awesome handcrafted earrings, necklaces, charms, and more! Right now, she even has a 25% off sale on these adorable birds nest pendants. I have one that I wear almost every day. She'll even customize the color or number of the eggs for you!

lucke penny

I have a fun new friend who just recently moved here from Texas. She is newly married and has begun the cutest Etsy shop called Lucke Penny. Adorable, right?

She has the cutest bow ties for only $10...perfect for Easter!

I already snatched up a couple, but no worries, she can make plenty more!

And, she makes awesome burpies and bibs...

(spoiler alert - you might see these again if you're pregnant and my friend.)

And, my favorite (of course) are the flag garlands. I'm such a sucker for something that helps you celebrate. Look how cute!?!

sweet beet designs

And, then, if you're really going for a make over in your home...check out Sweet Beet Designs. She finds old stuff and makes it hip and new and awesome. Check out this before and after.

I'm totally spoiled because all of these creative women live within minutes from me. However, even if you're not local, they can find a way to ship and get stuff straight to you.

Go have fun shopping!

All I Want for Christmas...

So, how can I go from not wanting anything for Christmas, to doing a Favorite Things Party post?!? Because I'm a sucker for a good party, that's why.

So, this cutie pie of a girl I met at Relevant posted over at Nester's yesterday. She posted about what I've wanted to do ever since she first brought it up at Relevant....and I. want. to. THROW. this. PARTY!!! I know you're shocked.

Since I don't know if it will happen in real life this season, I wanted to at least join in with the fun over at the linky. Check it out! Lots of fun stuff...but beware, you'll leave wanting to throw a party! (or maybe it's just me...hmmm.)

Prepare yourself for a corny photo shoot...it's late, I'm not a great photographer, and I'm feeling a bit punchy at the moment.

1. Light Up Lip Gloss ($15)

Ok, so this lip gloss...yeah, it's pretty much amazing. It's like lip gloss for a girl MacGyver (I just had to google how to spell MacGyver). It lights up, it has a mirror on the side, AND it has a minty tingle to it. Not to mention my lips are ever so thankful.

2. Handmade Recess Goodies!

first of all, how much cuter could you get...but wait...

look inside!!!

Anything that comes out of this girl's shop is amazing. She uses vintage fabrics that she's found all over, and then hand makes her bags, wallets, and clutches, and more. She's the sweetest gal, and such an encouragement to be around, and does amazing work! I've already done a little Christmas shopping from her, and already am wanting a few more!

3. My new favorite CD ($10)

I had so much fun hanging out with Christa at Relevant, and she is a beautiful songwriter. I love how she weaves justice and grace through her songs. Her words have been blaring out of my CD player non stop.

Ok, new sunglasses...$2 at Rue 21. Yes, $2. I love them.

And, last, but not least, my mother in law got me this fun scarf the other day. It was at the same little hole in the wall place where we got her tree... $11 of happiness is around my neck.

And yes, I did make a heart with my scarf around my favorite things. I told you I was punchy.

Too Good To Pass Up!

Ok, so who wouldn't love wedding gifts like these?!?

Pottery Barn is one of those stores that I love to be inspired by, and attempt similar looks in my home (a.k.a. copy), but I hardly ever think about actually purchasing from them. Unless I run across an amazing sale, I'm just too cheap.

However, if you're doing a gift registry right now, I would tell you to register at Pottery Barn! Now through Feb. 23, Pottery Barn is doing a sweepstakes giveaway for a honeymoon in PARIS! I mean, how often do you get to pick the store that people shop for you from?! Much less, get the chance to win a trip to Paris! I wish that I could register! Maybe I could...I mean, I did just move. heehee.

Happy Birthday, to Edie!

Anytime I've ever seen or heard from Edie, or anyone who knows her, it's only sweet, encouraging words. She is someone who is known for her precious heart, and her love for those around her. She uses her gifts and talents in a way that bless her family, and honor her God.

If I had just lost my entire house, and everything I owned in a huge fire, I don't think that I would be saying "Praise God for the gift that He has given me this Christmas..." What a blessing to be able to have her speaking, writing, and co-laboring along side us in this journey. Take time to go encourage this beautiful lady today. It's her birthday today, and we can't help but celebrate her life.

For todays giveaway, I'll be sending Edie one of my flourishes to make this birthday a bit more sweeter. I pray peace, hope, and joy be yours this year, Edie, more than any other before. Even in the midst of the impossible request, our God is the God of the impossible, and He will rise up to meet you here.

The Greatest Gifts

Finding the perfect gift can be difficult. Finding the time to find the perfect gift, is even more difficult. That's why I decided I would give you the gift of time, and tell you my favorite places to shop for the greatest gifts and deals.

You can shop online at all of these places, and each has price points that range from just a few dollars to lots of dollars. Sometimes, I just need to know that someone else has LOVED whatever the place is, so that I feel confident in making a decision to shop there. Well, let me just say that all of these people and places, are fabulous, and I know you will feel the same after ordering from them. But, I'll warn you, you might also want to do some Christmas shopping for you!

Adorned by Lonnie - An online jewelry boutique representing more than 60 artisians globally. Each piece is selected for its unique qualities and for how it will compliment and reflect your beauty and style. All of it is exquisite, and she has free shipping now through dec. 31st!

All Wrapped Up - Lea will customize and wrap up any gift for any person you know. All you do is tell her a little bit about the person, and she works wonders!

Arbonne - All natural skincare and make up - these are the only skin products that have ever worked on my skin. They have reduced my little crows feet and wrinkles, and have given my skin more clarity! Their tagline is " Pure. Safe. Beneficial." And let me tell you... they are!

Etsy - because everything is better handmade.

Events by Design's Online Boutique - Fun bags and gifts that can be personalized for anyone! Of course I had to throw in a shameless plug for my own shop.

IJM - Ever think about the price of freedom? Ever want to give it as a gift? You literally can. International Justice Mission goes all over the world, freeing victims of slave labor, sex trafficking, and other forms of slavery. It really happens, and we really can do something about it. It's an absolutely amazing ministry.

Loco for Coco - amazing handmade truffles that will be gone before you know it!

World Vision - When you realize that people here have so much, and people throughout the world, do not, you want to do something about it. Giving gifts like these is one way you can.

So, if you're on my shopping list, don't be surprised if you get a gift from me from one of these places. They truly are the best of the best!

StC: Monday Give Away!

You know what they say about pictures. Well, I'll be short on words and simply show you how great our final Something to Celebrate give away is.

Meredith Rowe from Visive Photography has graciously offered to give away a free mini session! And talk about dreamy...from the time you click on her site, you're swept away. Not to mention that this giveaway is just in time for the holidays! Go check out her fabulous site, and then leave a comment saying what type of session you would use it for, and you'll be entered!

However, if you are not local, I want you to be able to get in on the fun for today's give away as well. Here's what you could win if you are not somewhere close to Piedmont Triad of North Carolina or Jacksonville, FL. Just comment and let me know which one you're entering for.

Also, because I want to go out with a bang, if you have a story or picture of celebration to share, link up in the comment section tomorrow.

StC: Give Up on Gift Wrap...A Tutorial

Now that we're onto thinking and preparing for Christmas, I figured I would let you in on another one of my secrets for saving. Remember how I told you that I don't iron.... well, here's another surprise...I don't buy wrapping paper. Now, I do wrap gifts. Just not with wrapping paper. And, hopefully the receiver of the gift feels tremendously celebrated and surprised just to see the gift. As a lover of gifts, I've come to believe that the presentation is half the fun of opening the gift. Wanna know how?

Usually, I start with wrapping the box in simple craft paper. (Make sure you buy your brown paper in the hardware or shipping section of the store, and not in the wrapping or craft section...it costs a lot less and you get a ton more!)

Then, I get out my leftover fabric scraps, ribbons and raffia. I just save them from past gifts, or will stock up on ribbon, when I find it on really good deals.

Pick your ribbons, according to size and type of gift.

Begin by using the longest ribbon to tie up the gift.

(Look at my spiritual gift. haha)

Layer ribbons one on top of the next.

Throw in some contrasting colors to give your presents more pop.

Embellish till your hearts content.

For girls, I love giving a fun hair thing for a gift topper.

For boys, sometimes I'll tie on a car or a little gadget of some kind.

Sometimes, if I'm in a hurry, I tie up gift boxes without wrapping them.

It still looks fun with all the colorful ribbon.

Or, I'll use a craft bag, stuff some tissue paper in, and tie up the handles with tulle.

If you're fed up on spending extra money from your Christmas budget on gift wrap, go for the more economical (and whimsical!) version of wrapping gifts.

StC: A Little Black Friday Sale For You

The only year that I remember getting up at 4 am to go shopping on Black Friday, was the year that I had just had my son. He was only 3 weeks old, and I'd do anything to get out for a little shopping, no matter the time of night. Because of having been so pregnant up until November, I had done little Christmas shopping, and that mixed with knowing that I had just fed him and had at least 2 hours before I'd have to be back to feed him again, made me jump at the chance to go shopping. I still remember where he was sleeping when I left, right beside my husband. I remember admiring them for just a second, and thinking how similar their profiles were. Then, I was off!

Most Black Fridays, though, I am not so brave. Nor do I have the tenacity of some of my friends to arise when it's pitch black, and fight the crowds for the best deals of the season.

However, I do love a good sale. And, thankfully, I'm having one. All my market totes are 20% off now until Monday at 8 am. In my opinion, these are one of my favorite Christmas gifts to give. Ever. But, I am kind of biased. I have given them as teacher gifts and you wouldn't believe all the squeals I get. I give them as a family gift, and fill them with yummy goodies. I give them to college students in their school colors. I can never have enough of these things, so in my mind, other people feel the same way! All this to say, they're hardly ever on sale, so if you're thinking of getting one, now is the time!

StC: A Sale I Have To Tell You About...

Ok, I'm really trying to not break my rule of waiting to celebrate Christmas stuff. But I had to tell you about this...because the sale ends this Sunday!!! I have several things that are 30% off right now at our online boutique. Go shop and let me know what you need! And, personally, gifts truly do make my home more cheerful, so technically, it's still "something to celebrate". (i know, it's a stretch. lol)

Here's a sneak peek of what's under $15 with this sale...

mini market tote

long hammered necklace set & earrings

faux pearl bracelet

camo carry all

black & white dot carry all

And, let me just say, that everything you see is even cuter in person! If you haven't registered under my sign in code, make sure you do that first! Then, proceed to shop...even in your pjs and slippers! I love online shopping.

StC: A Simple Shoebox

There are lots of ways that as a family, we can become more thoughtful, and more thankful at this time of year. However, one tradition, that we try to do every year is a Shoebox Gift. We head to Dollar Tree, and each of our kids, gets to pick out a few things to put in "their child's" box. They even have the shoebox size tubs that you can purchase there. (That's always helpful, because my kids always want to get a ton of things, and I say, "we can only get what will fit in your box.")

My daughter usually does a box for a girl in her age group, and my son does the same. We talk about how this child on the other side of the world is just as special as they are. Just as loved. Just as precious to the Lord. And what a gift that we can bless them with a fun present filled with goodies and treats. That this might be the only gift they get for Christmas. And, they begin to see how much they truly have. They piece together in their little minds what is taking place with a simple shoebox.

I don't know if you've seen this yet, but Southern Gal had this video up on her blog yesterday. I almost skipped watching it, being in my usual hurried state of life. But, miraculously enough I stopped, and took a few minutes to watch it. I'd encourage you to do the same...

I think what hits me the most, is that if all my kids got for Christmas was a pair of shoes, they'd be so disappointed and almost insulted. Not because they're just ungrateful kids, but because their Christmas list is comprised of things like An American Girl Doll, and new lego sets. We have so much. So much, that even as I type I think about how much I complain on a daily basis about what I don't have, and how dare for one second should I ever doubt His love for me. But, because of our culture, and because of our life style, a simple pair of shoes, almost seems like nothing.

But, this simple pair of shoes, brought one little girl to know the power and love of God. And that is something absolutely amazing. That He brought her exactly what she needed, in the exact moment she needed it.

Just think if we each did one shoebox. If we each took a few minutes out of our busy lives, and took the time to think about that child on the other side of the world, who might only get that one gift for their entire year. Just think.

Check to see where a drop off location is close to you. If you're local, and interested in putting one together, I'll even volunteer to take your box with me this Sunday. Just email me, and I'll get it from you, and take it with mine. This is the last week to collect them.

Linking up to Imperfect Prose and Simple Pleasures.

Drumroll Please...

Events by Design

presents...

MyWebBoutique.com!

We are excited to announce that we now have an online boutique! All of our retail items will now be found here. You can now shop online with ease, there is free shipping with purchases over $99, and it will always be shipped straight to you!

Because our passion is to help others bring celebration to life, most of our items are centered around giving personalized gifts. These are items that you can use as...

birthday gifts

special holidays

Or graduation gifts.

Or bridesmaids gifts

or teacher gifts

Or back to school gifts

or baby shower gifts...

You get the point. We have lots of new bags, jewelry, and market totes. To celebrate the opening of mywebboutique.com we're offering you a chance to win a $50 gift card!

All you have to do to enter the drawing is...

1. Register as a new user under my code "ML5".

2. Take a few minutes to go look around our new boutique and let us know what your favorite item is.

3. Get an extra entry if you "Like" Events by Design Facebook page.

4. Get ANOTHER entry if you facebook, blog, or twitter about this post!

*if you're more of a catalog shopper, simply click here to see our new catalog.

Make sure you comment here to let us know you're entering the drawing.

Thanks so much for checking out our fun new shop!

Linking up with In the Studio over at Jen's and with Emily at Chatting at the Sky!