It's Time For A Fiesta!

Etsy treasury by Monkey Mind Design

That's right people! This girl needs a spring fiesta.

I love all these warm bright colors. They make me so happy. I'm totally ready to enjoy some time outside or even be beach side. Flip flop season is just ahead. Yes! Although, "reality check" this is Colorado and with a blink of an eye we could be surrounded by a foot of snow. But for now, I'm soaking up the sweet spring sun and daydreaming of a walk on the beach with a margarita in hand. Hope you enjoy these festive goodies by some fabulous Etsy artists.

Freelancin' The Month Away

It's been some time since my last post. This girl's been busy, busy, busy. Not enough hours in the day. March is usually my slow month but this year I got lucky. Some sweet freelance projects came my way. Had a super fun time on this poster for Granby Ranch. Love it when clients choose illustration over stock photography. Just thought I'd share the final piece.

And oh how I love spring skiing in Colorado. Missed out on the Beach Bash. No worries, I plan on hitting the high country in the weeks to come. Blue skies, hopefully some fresh snow, and a lot of apres ski!

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.