{ thursday thoughts }

Simple yet powerful, no? Spotted over on this lovely blog.

Psst: I'll be posting a reader giveaway later today...be sure to check back.

{ holiday gift guide: winter whites }

Wintry whites + a bit of sparkle inspired by the wondrous blanket of snow that fell upon our area yesterday (for the first time in 20+ years).

Sources:

Odette cuff on sale at Anthropologie

Ivory winter bracelet by paper flower girl

Victoriana scarflette by Tickled Pink Knits

Orquidea Tea set at Anthropologie

Scoop neck Corsage Tee at J.Crew

Lollia breathe Bubble bath at Reverie Daydream Boutique

Frosted rose necklace by La Vieja Tun Tun

Paper floral wreath Winter Wonderland by Dana & Carol

{ happy, happy monday }

Happy Monday friends! I am back and catching up after my daughter's fabulous, whirlwind birthday weekend. We kicked it off Friday with a surprise, first-time visit to the American Girl store in LA--so, so fun. She loves the historical characters/dolls and was in awe seeing them all in person. The celebration continued Saturday with a magical day at Disneyland which is still one of my favorite places to visit--and especially so now, seeing it through my daughter's eyes. There were moments we laughed so hard that our stomachs ached. My idea of bliss!

I will be back with a fresh post tomorrow. In the meantime, treat yourself to a visit to Cafe Mom, where the lovely Sheri has gathered affordable gift ideas from some of my favorite bloggers. { You may even spot a few from moi }. xoxo

25 Gifts for $10 & Under

15 Gifts for $20 & Under

{ thursday thoughts }

I'm off to find some happily ever after at the Happiest Place on Earth...

a certain little someone is turning nine.

P.S. Did you hear...the t.ruffle girls have opened a shoppe where you can find all kinds of happy & magic!

{ holiday card outtake }

I grabbed my daughter and the pup and headed to the park the other day to shoot some photos for our holiday card. It felt reeeeeally good to dust off my good camera {film} and take something other than quick snapshots. Must make a point to do it more often! This shot is one of my favorites from the day. From a technical standpoint, it may not be perfect, but there's something about it that I love. {Obviously there was something much more interesting than the crazy lady behind the camera.}

P.S. Do you have a recommendation for good photo cards? I've been really happy with Shutterfly, but would love to explore other options as well.