Inspirational Prints

Wow... This could get me out of any bad mood from a crazy morning or long day. I would adore coming home to this print with a wonderful message. 

Love it!

How incredibly sweet! Since it's the last day of the month of love, I thought it was only necessary to post one more lovey dovey post! 

Do I really need an excuse?

Monday's Musings

Image via

This past week has been filled with all sorts of uplifting occurrences. I got an interview earlier in the week. Always a plus. The newspaper I have started doing freelance writing for asked me if I wanted another assignment. Yes, please! (I'm working on that today, as we speak.) I saw my dear brother come in 3rd place in the weight throw at his conference meet. I'm so proud of him. It really was a treat seeing him if only for a few hours on Friday. Also, I enjoyed a buffet with my sweety (I ate almost all of my favorite foods), and of course, I watched the Oscars on Sunday! It was a very happy week.


I am very content that there are so many good things happening in my life, but I would like to be more real with my readers.... I feel like sometimes I don't always mention the difficult stuff in my life. My apologies. I actually would love to write about something I have been struggling with for a while now. In short, I have been dating my sweetheart for almost a year now (day after St. Patrick's Day is our one year!), and I have yet to introduce him to my dad. Sometimes I just don't know when the right time would be or if there is one. I am curious what y'all would think. Let me know if you wouldn't mind reading about it. K? Thanks!

Before I return to my freelance assignment, 
I want to share with you five things that are making me happy.

Books that take you out of your own life and into someone else's.

I'm Indi-a Mood for Love OPI Nail Polish

Adorable photos like this one.

I'm breaking out my rolling pins today, 

so I can make a few batches of homemade honey pizza dough.

My sister is coming home from Colorado tomorrow, and of course we're having a party!

Chocolate Dipped Strawberries & this Tutorial

Have a great week!

Red Carpet Love

I've had one of the best days today. It's no surprise that one of the best days this week is the day I spend almost all my entire wake hours with my sweetheart. Right now, I am sitting on his couch and watching the Oscars while he bakes banana bread for us. It's wonderful to say the least.

While I'm observing, I'm inevitably wanting to share with you what I am loving on the red carpet. I love Anne Hathaway's long red dress. It's so pretty with the red flowers bunched at the side.

Also, did anyone notice how Mandy Moore looks so much better than in years past? She looks so grown up and beautiful. (She's more pale than before, but I actually really think it suits her.) She can definitely pull off red lipstick! Her dress made it look like she was dipped in silver dew!

In other news, Amy Adams wore one of my favorite dresses at the Oscars.  I really liked the blue sparkle of her dress with the square shoulders. That cut is definitely something I would love to wear. I'm not much of a strapless kind of girl so her dress would be a perfect style for my taste.

Side Note: Jesse Eisenberg who plays Mark Zuckerberg in The Social Network, cracked us up with his comment that he should have created a Facebook account so he could say he was at the Oscars before he left his home. He was so nonchalant with everything he said. Too funny!


(Images via: Here)

Hall Pass, Please!

Last night, the boyfriend and I went to a buffet...

We ate to our hearts' content. Without regrets.

I almost jumped for joy when I saw the chocolate fondue tower.

Yummm...

After we had finished eating, we went to the 10:15 showing of Hall Pass.

I was so looking forward to this movie.

But I was SO TIRED after eating probably 4 meals in one sitting.

Yah, that is probably gross.

I stayed awake for the first twenty minutes of the movie and promptly fell asleep. I didn't wake up until the part in the movie where one guy was chasing another.

Sorry, I can't recall the names of the people. I fell asleep remember? :(

Major BUMMER.

 It's weird, but now, I am totally not interested in watching it.

Maybe, I'm acting like a drama queen. Maybe not. I can tell you one thing though, I will be AWAKE for the next movie.

(Image via: We Heart It)

Have a Wonderful Weekend

Hi, my dears! What are your plans for the weekend? I am pretty excited for this weekend. Today, I am going to see my brother throw in one of his track meets. It's been a while since I've seen him, and I can't wait to give him a hug! Other than that, I am planning on relaxing with my sweetey and finding something fun to do together.

I hope you all have a wonderful weekend!

(Image via: dreaming)

Friday's Fancies (2)

I chose this little combo, because I want a fun night out, and I'm missing the sun's warm rays. I love this black lace cami. 

It's so incredible pretty, and I adore lace.

Love these skinny jeans. 

 I think these sophisticated pumps would be an awesome addition to my wardrobe!

I need to wear more heels.

What would you like to wear this Friday? 

Don't forget to link up with av at long distance loving!

(Images via: J.Crew)

A Penny for your Thoughts

Hi friends! I have been wondering how I should have the layout of my blog for a while now... I have changed it to three columns now, because I like how it appeals to my love of journalism. But I am curious to know what you think of my layout? Do you have an suggestions or preference? Is there something that you want to see more of on my blog in regards to posting? Thanks in advance for your input!

(Image via: dreaming)

Julia Child Inspiration

Today, I read that Julia Child didn't start cooking until she was thirty-seven-years-old. I couldn't believe it! It just goes to show you don't have to have everything figured out in your 20's. 

Very encouraging!

Wednesday Wishes (4)

I am linking up with Brooke over at Bright Wishes for her Wednesday Wishes post! 
Here are my wishes!

One. I would like to be more content with everything. I find that sometimes I am not thankful enough for everything I have in my life, and I would really like to change that. 
Life is really a precious gift.

Source via

 Two. A L.O.V.E. Paper Weight

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Three. Really Long Hair. 

My hair is getting very long, but I would love to have it to my stomach.

Source via

Four. Cute Little Desserts

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What are your wishes today?

We Had Fun

Last night, boyfriend and I went out to our favorite restaurant... Houlihans. I love when we go there. We always have the best server, best food, and of course, good company. 

After we were done eating, I was admiring this long island that they were making. It was this light pink color. Our fav server told us it is called the Georgia Peach. 

Next time, I am foregoing my regular raspberry long island for the sweet Georgia Peach. The light color pink was so pretty! 

Boyfriend had been trying to figure out how to make a good long island for a while and asked our server if they used sweet and sour mix. Turns out, they do. He also told us the best sweet and sour mixes have milk as ingredient.

We didn't know that... I found that pretty interesting. 

I like discovering what ingredients make up our favorite drinks or dishes.

The next stop of the night? Barnes and Noble. Of course, we had to find a good book. Boyfriend didn't end up finding one, but we still had a great time. 

Source via

Side Note: We discussed what are guilty pleasure book looks like. He likes reading about dinosaurs, and I don't mind reading a teen fiction book or two. ha

What is your guilty pleasure?

Day 30 of 30: Your highs and lows of this month.

High: Celebrating our first Valentine's Day together at Acquaviva!

High: Having dinner with Bill's family on Valentine's Day. :)

High: Making more homemade honey pizza.

Low: Having sore muscles from working out.

Low: Realizing I had stopped reading one of my favorite books.

High: Taking my dog for walks since the temp was up to the 40s!

High: Meeting new blogger friends! You guys are awesome!

P.S. This is the last day of my 30 day challenge!! Yay!

(Image via: Here)

Day 29 of 30: Goals for the next 30 days.

Since I'm posting this for the world to see, it looks like I will actually have to accomplish all of them...

Oh well! :)

Read 3 books. Including Julie and Julia and The Time Machine.

Workout 4 to 5 times a week.

Learn how to cook something new.

Make Cup Cakes that looks like this:

Find 10 new things to blog about.

Try not to complain about anything.

Take more pictures for my blog.

Write more lists.

Figure out a dessert that would be really fun to bake!

(Image via: Here)

Day 28 of 30: Something that I miss... Summer where art thou?

I am completely missing summer these days. 

I especially miss laying in the shade enjoying a great book in the warm weather with the option to go for nice run outside afterwards with my dog. 

That is one of my favorite things to do in the summer. The atmosphere of summer is also amazing with the sound of the birds chirping, dogs barking, kids playing outside, and the smell of barbecue. 

Very comforting.

It's one of my favorite seasons, and it has been for my whole life. These winter days have me craving it like no other. 

Things are just so much more enjoyable and relaxing. No one has to warm their car up for 10 minutes, scrape the ice off of their windshield, wear 3 to 4 layers of clothing on a daily basis, or wear gloves while driving.

I would much rather wear a cute girly skirt with a tank top instead of feeling 10 pounds heavier with all my compiled layers. I think that's reason enough to miss summer!

(Image via: We Heart It)

Day 27 of 30: A Problem that I have had.

I'll admit that I sometimes have trouble being content with where I am in the present. I'm more of a future person. I like to wonder what will happen in the next days or months. After years of thinking like this, I know I would like to change the way I think. It's so much more fun living in the present. 

One of the things I like to wonder about is my future career. I know I have talked about not having a grown up job yet on my blog. It has bothered me for a while, but I'm learning that I really need to enjoy the process of finding a job that I love. That definitely takes a while for anyone in most cases!

Also, I want to learn to be better at time management. If I make a list, I am really good at being productive. A list makes all the difference! I love checking off things and knowing that I am that much closer to accomplishing my goals. With that said, I hope to report soon that I am that much closer to finding a job I enjoy and prioritizing my time more efficiently!

xoxo,

NC.

(Image via: We Heart It)

Friday's Fancies (1)

This is my first time linking up for Friday's Fancies. I am loving the tiers on this pink dress and the silver shoes that go with it so well. I would love to wear a pink flower in my hair along with my favorite type of earrings pink princess cut diamonds!

7 Facts + 7 Blogs

(Image via: We Heart It)

Erin over at Buzzin' Around With The Bees has awarded me the Stylish Blogger Award. I thought that was incredibly sweet! Her blog is one of my favorites. She is a newly wed so there is lots of cuteness over at her adorable blog.

Here are the rules. I am writing 7 facts about me, and I am also awarding 7 other bloggers the Stylish Blogger Award. Without further adeiu, here are 7 facts about myself!

One. Exercising

I love running and lifting weights. I feel so energetic once I start working out and that same feeling continues throughout my day. I want to be lean and strong. I think my mom has always encouraged me to stay healthy so that is probably where I get my love of exercise.

Two. Reading

When I was in elementary school, I would ask my teachers for more homework. I especially liked when they would give me more books to read, and I loved reading out loud in class. Mainly because my teachers would compliment me, and I would feel so encouraged. I developed a huge admiration for books while I was young. I remember reading The Box Car Children and various others that made my childhood special. Now in my twenties, I like reading every week. I would like to say that I finish a book a week, but it is more like every couple of weeks.

Three. Sweets

I am a huge fan of chocolate, candy, or anything sweet. I love to bake banana bread, brownies, and cookies. Yesterday afternoon, I baked oatmeal chocolate chip cookies. Yummy. Honestly, I love any kind of gummy candy. Gummy worms. Gummy bears. Gummies. You get the point. :D

Four. Animals

I grew up with pets for most of my life. I had a golden Lab, Rhino, until I was 3-years-old. I have also had so many guinea pigs. I don't even know how many. Now, I have a Cocker Spaniel-Poodle, Kittle, who I adore more than any other pet I have had in my life. She's playful, spunky, and cuddly. Also, did I mention she loves to run?

Five. Children

I love being around kids. They have so much energy, and I love hearing their little voices. Adorable. I especially like hanging out with my boyfriend's nieces. There are 5, and they are all so sweet. They make my day when I am around them.

Six. Writing

I love writing. It's so therapeutic for me. If I'm stressed I write. If I'm happy I write. I like writing wherever and whenever. On my blog, you will find I write about everything. I love that blogging has allowed me to meet so many creative and insightful people. I also love making friends and finding people who have similar interests. So lets get to know each other!

Seven. Music

I am addicted to dance music or anything upbeat. I especially like listening to music when I'm working out or cleaning. I feel like I can let my thoughts whisk me away while I am doing something productive. What could be better?

There is one other thing I like... Giving bloggers awards! Here are my 7:

m.e

Natalie Merrillyn 

The Adventures of Kailey and Caleb 

The Blair Affairs 

the franglais diaries 

long distance loving 

An Ordinary Fairytale 

Thanks again, Erin!! :D

Day 26 of 30: The type of person that is attractive to me.

When a person has confidence I find it very attractive. It just looks good on anyone. I think it can make anyone more attractive. You know when someone doesn't have it... They don't stand as tall, smile as much, etc.

Another thing I find appealing is brown hair and blue or brown eyes. I had a serious crush on brown eyes, because everyone in my family has blue eyes. I loved looking at the contrast. But, I still love blues. There is definitely something special about someone's eyes being the color of the sea or sky.

I think the thing that attracts me most to someone is if they smile a lot. That always gets me. It makes me feel comfortable around them, and of course, I feel accepted.

(Image via: We Heart It)

Dear Boyfriend

Dear Boyfriend,

You know you are completely awesome, verdad? I fully appreciate your willingness to watch saturated American ignorance otherwise known as The Bachelor. You know some of those girls must have a screw loose when they complain that they aren't the only ones feeling special. Don't they remember they applied for their ticket to crazy town all by themselves? I digress...

Also, the bubbly that we drank while watching TV last night was a nice touch. You were the sparkle of my night. I'm also glad we had a happy ending to the night. NO, friends, it is not what you think. I'm referring to CUDDLE TIME. 

Sweety, I'm glad we have a give and take to our relationship. I promise we will watch your choice of a show, or I'll even watch you play your current obsession...War Craft. Maybe. 

Much Love,

Your Girlfriend

Day 25 of 30: Someone who fascinates me and why.

Ever since I watched the first episode of Friday Night Lights, Minka Kelly has inspired me to no end. She's beautiful and sweet and most of all, she loves the people close to her. Minka is one of those people who I aspire to be like. 

Her confidence, not conceitedness, is so endearing. I know I really only have a perception of her since I don't know her personally, but she seems like the sweet and gorgeous girl who everyone likes. 

Minka as Lyla in Friday Night Lights

Minka

Wednesday Wishes (3)

One. To Make Breakfast for my Boyfriend who Adores it.

Two. Pure Delicious Lemonade

Three. To Dance by the Sun Set

Four. Cute Tights

What are your wishes? 

xx Natalie

(Images Via: We Heart It)

Decorate a Valentine's Day Cookie??

Since I have a creative mom who likes to bake and cook, I think it should be genetic, and I should know what how to decorate a Valentine's cookie.

Pretty safe assumption. Or so I thought!

Here's what my afternoon looked like:

Grab the pink frosting. 

Attempt to squeeze perfectly round dots on the edge of the heart cookie. 

Without allowing the frosting to keep oozing out of the tube afterwards.

Oh wait, it's happening with my every attempt.... FAIL.

OH WAIT... Maybe, I'll try to draw a squigly line across the cookie.

That's easy enough. Or.... NOT.

It would be if the frosting wasn't dumping out at a speed faster than my hand.

THE OUTCOME:

This would be acceptable if you are 5-years-old. Not 23.

My Remedy: 

Steal the extra cookies that my mom decorated that look nothing like the misery you see above.

P.S. I hope you had a W.O.N.D.E.R.F.U.L. Valentine's Day, and that your cookies look nothing like mine. :D

Oh, and in case you were wondering, I will continue onward with the 30 Day Challenge. No, I have not forgotten. yay!

Valentines Day Dinner

I realized today that some of the best times spent together are unplanned. My boyfriend arrived at my door step with flowers, a bottle of champaign, and a beautifully decorated carmel apple in arm when he greeted me. He also surprised me with an awesome dinner at Acquaviva Winery tonight. He called and reserved a reservation for us. We both had a great time.  

I wasn't having the best day today so this special V-day dinner really cheered me up! I hope you have a wonderful Valentine's Day tomorrow!

 xoxo, 

~Natalie

Day 24 of 30: My Favorite Movie

My all time favorite movie is Catch and Release with Jennifer Garner and Timothy Olyphant.  

Jennifer Garner plays the main character who is mourning the loss of her fiance who died before the beginning of the movie. It gets worse. She discovers that her fiances was cheating on her throughout their relationship. I honestly cannot for the life of me imagine how devastated someone would feel after that. I won't spoil the movie, but it does end in a happily ever after.

Every time I watch it, I am amazed by the message. It's simple and beautiful. It reminds me that even if you are enduring something horrible, things can change when you least expect it.

(Image via: here)

Day 23 of 30: Four Famous Guys I Find Handsome

Channing Tatum... He is one of my favorite actors ever since Step Up. I remember seeing that movie with some of my best friends right before my first day of college 5 years ago. Very cute!