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.