Pillowhappy.

"Like a little forest for your home."

From pillowhappy.


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Eco Stockings.

From rikrak.


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Homeward Bound.

I guess I should've made a post before leaving for Dallas. But I forgot. So I'll blog more about the trip when I get back. For now I'm sitting in my hotel room, unable to sleep in today [past 9 anyway] anxiously awaiting the drive to Houston.

Williams Tower lets me know when I'm close. It, and the Galleria, are less than a mile from my house. And yes, everything really is bigger in Texas.

So, Happy Thanksgiving, and I'll be back to blogging after this weekend!

[Williams Tower]
[Galleria]


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Winter Recipe Tags.

Winter recipe tags now available in the shop. Perfect for sharing your favorite holiday treats!


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Christmas Fudge Recipe Tags.

Well I got really excited about my recipe tag idea and made them this afternoon! I'm going to make some blank ones for the shop so you can print and share all of your favorite recipes. I recommend printing these on heavyweight cardstock.

Download the PDF here.
[Please use these for personal use only. Thanks!]


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Foolproof Fudge.

Every year growing up my mom always made fudge for Christmas. Now that I'm all grown up [ha!] and no longer live at home, I've started making it myself. It's super easy, makes more than enough in each batch, and is a wonderful gift to share with teachers, coworkers, and friends. That is, if your kids and men don't eat it all first. Last year I found some cute reusable plastic Christmas "tins" at Wal-Mart and used them to give fudge to the families I babysit and some of my professors.

I'm going to wait until after the Thanksgiving break to start my holiday fudge-making extravaganza, but I did want to share this site with lots of great recipes, including our traditional foolproof chocolate and rocky road. I also found several new recipes I want to try this year.

It seems like every year everyone who tries it asks for the recipe. And of course in the midst of the holiday chaos, I usually forget to ever give it to them. Solution: this year I'm going to make gift tags with the recipes already on them! So be on the lookout for those freebies soon.

[Photo credit]


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It's Official.

Found this lovely photo on Flickr with the description "The magic number 23". Let's hope so.

And I have no idea what my birthday plans are.

[Photo credit]


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Best. Cookies. Ever.

Is it wrong to bake yourself birthday cookies? Ok, let's be real, I was gonna bake them regardless of my birthday being tomorrow. Because I had half a can of pumpkin sitting in the fridge and no idea what to do with it. Until the wonderful other Jen Stewart [yes, we have the same name, almost] gave me her amazing recipe for pumpkin chocolate chip cookies. These are, no joke, the best chocolate chip cookies I have ever eaten. I do tend to exaggerate sometimes, but I swear right now I'm not. Who knew a little pumpkin could make such a difference. I even got the approval of boys who claim to hate pumpkin.

And now I'm going to do something horrible and leave you without the recipe for now, because I want to get Jen's permission before sharing it with the world. I'm sure she won't mind, so check back later, and I'll update with the recipe as soon as I hear back from her.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

Update: Well go figure as soon as I hit "publish post" I got Jen's email! Hurray!

So here is the recipe:
Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies

1 c. canned pumpkin
1 c. sugar
1/2 c. veg. oil
1 egg
2 c. flour
2 t. baking powder
2 t. cinnamon
1/2 t. salt
1 t. baking soda
1 t. milk
1 T. vanilla (yes, a whole Tablespoon)
2 c. chocolate chip

[I mixed all the wet ingredients first, then added all the dry ingredients, and chocolate chips last]

Place rounded dough balls on greased cookie sheet and bake at 350 for 10-12 minutes.

Happy baking everyone! Enjoy!!


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One More Day...

...to get your free PDF sheet just for following my blog! Followers, just leave a comment or convo me on Etsy with the design and colors you want and your email address and it will be on its way! Make sure to specify pendant square or gift tags.

Just click "Follow This Blog" on the left sidebar to get in on the freebie action.


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Did Somebody Say Vacation?

I'm not leaving just yet, but I did book our hotel in Dallas for the beginning of next week [happy birthday to moi!] and I cannot wait to get out of town and take a break for a while. After Dallas we'll head to Houston for Thanksgiving with my family, and then back home to Tulsa with a stop in Paris [TX] to visit some friends along the way. Did I mention I can't wait?!

It's been way too long since I've been home or visited my family. Like six months too long. I'm getting antsy just thinking about it, but there is so much to get done here before I leave.

Must. Focus.

I made my shop vacation banner today [which is adapted above for your viewing pleasure, hehe]. The banner will be going up this Sunday night and not coming down until December. Can you believe it is almost December?!

Alrighty, back to the to-do list...


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Winged Penthouse.

I just adore this necklace from jacksoncreede. Wouldn't this make a lovely gift for a momma of three? I know my mom always loves finding treasures like this to represent her three big kids.

Not into nests? The shop is full of many other pretty pieces too.


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The Ugg Alternative.

When it finally sank in after a couple of winters in Tulsa that I did not, in fact, live in Houston anymore, and December lows were not 55 degrees on a cold day, I caved and hit the mall for some boots. After all, flip flops and snow do not mix.

For some reason I am morally opposed to Uggs. I think my unreasonable disdain stemmed from the girls in my high school who wore them as a fashion statement on those frigid Houston days [please note my sarcasm]. I swore then and there I would never wear those silly shoes. So Uggs were automatically out.

Yet somehow virtually the same boot by another brand seemed ok. And that's how I fell in love with my Aussie Dogs. They are soft, durable, and oh-so-warm. I even wear them around my house instead of slippers. So for anyone else out there with Ugg-issues and cold feet, check out Aussie Dogs. They are a winner on a snow day.

And I do realize it's possible, even likely, that I am the only one with crazy anti-Ugg sentiments, but I still suggest trying on a pair of these to compare. They're cheaper too!

[The pup has nothing to do with these boots. He just came up when I was Googling a pic and he was too cute to not include. Enjoy!]


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Bad Blogger & Banana Bread.

So sorry I've been a bad blogger today. Somehow the hours flew by as I caught up on work for the not-so-creative job I do part time for my mom. I won't bore you with the details of that, but I did want to share this yummy banana bread I made last night.

I had a lot of bananas so I doubled the recipe and added about 1/2 cup of chocolate chips to one batch. I stuck the other loaf in the freezer to take home for Thanksgiving and share. After trying the chocolate chip version, I'm kind of regretting not adding them to both.

Next up, something to use up the rest of the pumpkin that's sitting in my fridge...suggestions are more than welcome.

Banana bread recipe here.
[And I highly recommend adding chocolate chips!]


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Zen.

Love these sweet and modern notepads from Paper Pumpkin.


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Franky Frog Plush.

Covetable, indeed.


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Hey New Followers...

...don't forget to comment here for your PDF freebie this week. Yay I love you all!

[Photo credit]


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Where Are My Elves?

I just finished making some sample designs to use in this listing for custom holiday cards. Now back to work on custom banner orders.

I could use some little pointy-eared helpers right about now...


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Deck The Halls.

Is it too early for Christmas decorations? I think not. The shop got a little holiday makeover this morning. I guess I will hold out a bit longer before getting out the tree here at home.

Go here to get your shop in the spirit of the season too.


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All You Need Is...

[and a super comfy tee]


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Road Trip.

I just found out yesterday Randy took off the whole week for Thanksgiving. We are driving to Houston to spend Turkey Day with my family, but now that we have a few more days off than expected I think we should stop somewhere [or maybe several somewheres] along the way. I just have no idea where.

So I am now taking any and all suggestions you may have for places to go and things to do between Tulsa and Houston. Anyone?

[Photo credit]


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Oh No...

...this is not good for procrastinators.


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Blog Follower Appreciation Week.

To celebrate 500 sales [in 5 months! yay!] and my upcoming birthday, I've created a week-long holiday just for my loyal blog readers. For all of you who follow my blog, I want to send you one free printable PDF sheet [tags or pendant squares] from my shop. Just leave a comment with the design and color palette you'd like, and an email address to reach you, and your freebie will be on its way!

Not a follower and want to get in on the celebration? Just click "Follow This Blog" on the Followers widget on my left sidebar, and you'll be good to go!

B.F.A.W. lasts until Friday November 21. Enjoy!


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Often Overlooked.

Today I challenge you to find beauty in the ordinary.

1. Often Overlooked by michelemaule
2. Croft by carvingmyinitials
3. Urban Life by sweetblue


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Just Lovely.

Coppertone Dahlia brooch from begurple.


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In Awe.

I can't stop looking at Olivia Bee's photos. She is fourteen. And amazing.

1. Untitled, 2. levitation, 3. in the brush,, 4. you speak of ghosts,, 5. Untitled, 6. i'm only clinging., 7. we are all lost in this landscape., 8. October, 9. Untitled, 10. Run to me, whenever you're lonely., 11. And yet I am still alone., 12. I thought this wouldn't hurt a lot, I guess not., 13. The wind was her calling., 14. Release., 15. Fall is here., 16. Plug it in and change the world., 17. We are one with the sea., 18. Wish you were here., 19. Personne ne murmure "je t'aime" a mon oreille., 20. Asleep at the wheel., 21. The leaves of life are falling down around you girl., 22. Playground love., 23. Potential Airbrushed 50 cent folder., 24. I'm just waiting., 25. S-T-U-P-I-D A-N-D S-C-A-R-Y


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Chocolate Side Up.

How cute is this quick and easy treat. All you need are pretzel sticks, yellow M&Ms, and melted white chocolate. Yum.

Recipe
Photo


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Chromalab.

Pounced onto this undiscovered treasure. See for yourself.


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Elsiecake.

I found Elsie's shop through her Flickr and I adore everything she does. Her designs are quirky and playful and her photos are just as fabulous.

I especially love her online class, full of great DIY tutorials and gift ideas, perfect for the upcoming holidays. Sign up and get to work now, and you'll have everyone on your list covered by Christmas.


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One More Week...

...of being 22. Last year I thought it was all downhill after 21. This year I'm kind of looking forward to 23. A lot has happened in the past year, most significantly graduating college and entering "the real world." I'd like to believe John Mayer that there's no such thing, but my bank statement tells me otherwise.

I'm holding out against the dreaded 8-5 as long as possible. I think I'm at a good place right now and easily surviving on my little Etsy + babysitting income. I know it won't last forever, but I've never been one to plan out every step of my future or make up my mind about what I want to do with my life. I need a little more spontaneity than that. And I change my mind far too often to ever settle on just one thing.

It seems like everyone I know is getting engaged, married, pregnant. Sometimes I dream about wedding planning, what I'll name my kids, how I'll decorate my house. Sometimes I feel like the clock is ticking and I desperately wish to jump on this bandwagon and start my own happily ever after.

Then practical Jen smacks me back to reality and I realize that diamond rings and babies do not equal happiness. I see a marriage and a family that I love dearly falling apart in front of me after almost fifteen years and know that there is no need to rush. It's something I only want to do once, and I want to do it right, not by a deadline.

This year I'm going to stop thinking about getting old and enjoy being young as long as I can get away with it.

[P.S. the photo is from my 1st birthday with my older cousins]


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'Bout Time.

I think I was more productive between 8pm and right now than I have been all week. Glad I got a good chunk of work done so I can stop stressing so much over my infinite to-do list.

Tomorrow I get to spend my day with this little lady. I always look forward to my Thursdays with Ella.

Good night and I hope everyone has a lovely Thursday!


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Jen McCleary.

Don't you love the harmonious tones and fabulous texture in these digital collage prints from Jen McCleary? An edgy and eye-catching addition to any space. I want them all.

[click image to zoom. the details are worth it.]


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And The Sun Came Out...

...just long enough to set.

[more]


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Make A Wish.

You have all day.

Top, Bottom


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Rain, Rain Go Away...

...stop making me want to stay in bed all day...

Today I am:
1. wishing for sun
2. loving this print from TheHauntedHollowTree


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I Have A Slight Obsession...

...with photos of doors. And bicycles.

[from a.leeway's photostream]


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Pumpkin Bread.

Please try this recipe. You will not be sorry. I am a self-proclaimed horrible chef, and it was a cinch to make and so delicious. I'm pretty sure I will end up eating the entire loaf myself [the boys don't seem to be pumpkin fans].

Banana bread is next...


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Finally Flickr'd.

No, it's not snowing here [yet]. This is just one of the photos from my Flickr photostream that I've finally gotten around to actually using. I love browsing through Flickr and decided to make use of the account I set up awhile ago. I hope this will inspire me to take more photos as well.

I'm still figuring out all the wonderful features [like how to add contacts] so if you're on Flickr already, feel free to add me! [my username is jenniferstuartdesign]


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Happy Birthday Daddio!

You are the youngest fifty-eight-year-old I know.

Love you!!


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Make Me Something Warm To Wear.

This sweet print from tollipop feels appropriate today as it's getting chilly again and our heater doesn't want to turn on. Hopefully our landlord will come by today and fix it so we don't freeze!

Hope you are all staying warm and having a happy Friday.

P.S. Visit tollipop's blog to enter her giveaway!


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Help.

My blog is having a bit of an identity crisis. Or rather, I am being a bit ADD with the header. So I apologize if you've visited in the past 24 hours and the blog looked different each time. I got the urge to change it up. I wanted to include something sketched by hand, but I just wasn't satisfied with the completely pencil-drawn headers I tried first.

Thank you to the gorgeous pre-tornado-warning sky I captured through my office window yesterday. I am finally happy with it. For today anyway...


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Finally...

...more new tags in the shop today! And I'm off to run errands for paper and baking ingredients. I'm not sure which I'm more excited about. [Ok definitely the baking. Can you say pumpkin bread? Yummm...]

Happy Wednesday!


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Feeling Hopeful.

My family might disown me, but I am pleased with the election outcome. Maybe it's the eternal optimist in me. I can't help but believe the future holds something better for this country. I hope I'm right. I'm interested to see what happens next...

[poster from designforobama.org]


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So Close...

I'm quite anxious for the results tonight.

In the meantime, enjoy some red, white, and blue goodness to your left.

I hope both parties can appreciate these patriotic finds.

Happy Election Night!


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Printable Pretties.

Gift tags that keep on giving. I had a request for some of my pendant squares in a larger size for making gift tags, and decided to convert some of my designs into printable tags for any occasion. Be on the lookout for more to come.


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