Inspirational Print by Monkey Mind Design

Here's one of my new prints. I really had fun with this one. I love Monty Python! Always worth it to have a laugh and lift the spirits. I remember the first time watching "Life of Brian" and getting this song stuck in my head... it's a catchy jingle for sure.

The great auk has spoken - Print by matouenpeluche

"Words to sooth the troubled soul from the Great Auk himself." - matouenpeluche
I came across this print and thought it was perfect for those taking a chance and venturing into uncharted territories. Love it, so true. Don't let that puddle hold you back or get you down.

The Many Colors Of Fall

Click Here For Etsy Treasury

I love this time of year! Not only are the mountains full of amazing colors but Fall means the holiday season is right around the corner. Right now, I'm getting ready for all those holiday shoppers. So this girl's a busy little bee. Here are some colorful creations I found on Etsy. My wish list just keeps growing.

Are You Ready For Some Football?

Fill-In-The-Blank Postcard Invitations

Or just the party snacks?
That's me alright! Maybe for the Superbowl... but really, it's more fun to get ready for game night parties. And the perfect pairing for chips, dip and dogs... BEER! Well, I have a new yummy appetizer, Asparagus Gruyere Tart. It's easy and so tasty! Try it for your next game night... the great plays won't be the only thing they talk about. And my new beer favorite, Shock Top! Have fun, here's the tart recipe.

I Have A Sunny Disposition... do you?

Cheerful, bright and fun! Perfect for saying thanks or even hello.

Wow, didn't realize my last post was back in June. Guess I needed a break from blogging or what I call blogging. It's no easy task. I actually found myself with some time on my hands to play on the computer, browsing sites and Etsy pages. I am so pleased with my new work, so thought it's time to share.

Back to my "sunny disposition"... that's right, I am in a really good mood these days. Well, actually it's almost been two years now that I've been in this good mood. November will be my two year anniversary for Monkey Mind Design. I have loved every moment and cherish my new found creative freedom!

My New Love This Summer... Basil!

Actually, I've loved it for some time now. However, this summer I decided to grow my own. I don't have a green thumb or know anything about gardens, plants or growing herbs... but this is the summer to try new things. Sure, I am taking baby steps but by the end of the summer should be a pro! Well, we'll see. For now, just enjoying seeing my seeds turn in to little green sprouts. I can't wait to use my own home grown herbs in some of my summer recipes.

Here's one of my picnic crowd pleasers and favorites... Caprese Salad!

• 1 pound fresh mozzarella
• 3/4 to 1 teaspoon fine sea salt or fleur de sel
• Freshly ground black pepper
• 1/3 cup packed basil leaves, torn or cut into thin strips
• 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil (optional: 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar)
  Directions
• Slice the tomatoes and cheese into 1/4-inch thick slices. Arrange the salad on a serving platter or individual plates in an alternating pattern, with two to three slices of tomato for every piece of cheese. Season with the salt and pepper to taste. Scatter the basil leaves over the top and drizzle with the oil. Serve at room temperature. 

Life is short so...

Everyday you are faced with choices. My advice, don't hold yourself back! Make those "it's going to be hard" choices, make those "not so fun" choices, and make those "I'll feel better if I do" choices. Choose to turn things around. Starting with today!

This is the year for great things to come. Not only do I believe it... I will do what ever it takes to achieve it! I will be fit (waking up early for a run or gym workout). No more excuses! My business will grow and my creativity right along with it (giving each day 150% and then some). I will spend fun time with my family and friends (making time for swimming, picnics, bike rides, camping, etc.). I will find motivation and inspiration to keep me charged and focused (filtering out the bad and hunting down the good). I know it sounds cliché... but you get one shot at this life, so make the most of it!

Hooray... It's Time For A Picnic!

I am so excited for sunny summer days. I plan to be outdoors as much as possible. I'm looking forward to bike rides, hikes, swimming and picnics in the park!  This summer, don't forget to pack the perfect minty sweet fruit salad. I found this on Foodnetwork.com, tried it and loved it! It was such a big hit! I've tried many fruit salads in my time and this is one to remember. I think it's a combination of the honey, mint and lime zest that makes it stand out from the rest. So, I thought I'd share! Try it. It's easy and oh so tasty!

Salad:

• 1/3 cantaloupe, cut into 3/4-inch chunks (about 2 cups)
• 1 (16 ounce) container strawberries, quartered (about 3 cups)
• 5 medium kiwis, peeled and cut into 3/4-inch chunks (about 2 1/2 cups)

Dressing:

• 3 tablespoons honey
• 3 tablespoons fresh lime juice
• 1 teaspoon lime zest
• 3 tablespoons finely chopped fresh mint leaves

Directions:

Place all of the fruit into a large bowl. In a small bowl, whisk the honey, lime juice, zest, and mint. Right before serving, pour the dressing over the fruit and toss gently to combine.

That special day is right around the corner... Mother's Day!

It's been such a busy first quarter. And then, throw in two colds at two weeks a piece. Now, I am just getting to some new creative for the shop. A lot is brewing with summer right around the corner. Right now, I am excited for Mother's Day! I have a better appreciation now that I'm one. It's hard work! But oh so rewarding. I think back and wonder how did my mom do it day after day and with three kids. WOW! So here's a little tribute to all those mom's that do whatever it takes, thanks!

Lovin' the Fresh Powder!

Well if you were curious what I do when I'm taking a break... we head to the mountains! There's nothing like a long weekend in Breckenridge, Colorado to melt the stress away. And bonus... tons of new snow! Here's how it goes... we roll out of bed, get on all our sporty gear and head up the mountain. Then mid afternoon, a little aprés ski is in order. Ready to relax and have some much deserved pints. Best happy hour around, Breckenridge Brewery & Pub right on Main street with $2 pints and half price appetizers. A couple of hours later, back to the resort and you guessed it... hot tub time! Then repeat for a few more days... absolute heaven!

Modern Military... New trend or has it always been around?

I'm lovin' the green!
So many wonderful shades to choose from. Inspired by army green and fashion, I put together this treasury "modern military". It never fails, I can browse through Etsy and find so many amazing and creative pieces that work with a specific theme. I remember working at the "Limited" in the mall around 96' and army green was in. I bought these awesome cargo pants... later turned them into shorts. Guess it's time to get back on board with this fashion trend.

Love Is All You Need

Fortunately, love I have.... time is what I need. These holidays seem to creep up and before I know it... Bam, I'm running around like a crazy lady. I am still brainstorming some ideas for my sweet love. I'm thinking a fancy homemade dinner. We're not a chocolate's kind of family but I think I can find a sweet and decadent dessert that will be one to remember. This might be the one Chocolate Pots De Creme with Cherry Whip.

You never know where inspiration will come from. But I can tell you one place full of inspiration is Etsy. That's where I go to get those creative juices flowing... even if it's just for planning a nice night in. Hope you find some sweet inspiration here. Etsy Treasury - Love is all you need!

It's never too late... to be the person you want to be!

This morning I woke up tired and sluggish. I know... we all have those days but, I pushed through and started my day out at the gym. Happy with myself but still feeling sluggish. So with a cup of coffee in hand I watched a recorded episode of "Biggest Loser". So inspirational and made me reflect on what I've done and how I've changed my life and my career. So today, I just wanted to take the opportunity to send a friendly reminder to all feeling a little sluggish in life, love or career...

It's never too late! 
Enjoy this lovely description from Cornflower Blue Studio:
It's never too late to be the person you want, travel to your dream destination, land that job, find love, make amends, change careers, be yourself, or be HAPPY! It's true, and I'm living proof! Just when you think you can't do what you want or be the person you want to be, you need to remind yourself that it's never too late. You just have to do it.

Original Mixed Media It's Never Too Late by Cornflower Blue Studio

Good Fortune! - Sending some your way!

LUCKY Sterling Silver Leather Handmade Bracelet by Nicole Lorentz

Do you ever feel you're lucky? I do!
I collect fortune cookie fortunes and today's ... "Among the lucky, you are the chosen one." I don't mean lucky like winning the lotto but lucky in life. As they say, count your blessings... and I do! My good fortune doesn't just fall in my lap... I believe it comes from hard work, determination, putting yourself out there, ability to change, and believing in yourself. You can be lucky too! Here's to a great New Year!