Snow Day

 

 

Saturday afternoon a cute little package arrived on my door step, covered with curious stickers and a beautiful label addressed to me. To me? Yes, to me!  Well you know how I love surprises, so I’m sure you can just imagine my excitement.  Inside the box was a few fanciful goodies from the fabulously famous MS. V and the cutest little bug I’ve ever seen. I’m not a fan of bugs but this guy is sweet as far as bugs go.

Milo the infamous millennium bug from our fun and fabulous friend Deborah was finally here for his visit to Michigan, as part of his world tour. Well right away his appointment calendar began to fill with tea parties and play dates. Today was to be his big debut with the princess and her under study, princess number 2 but a terrible snow storm blew in and wiped his calendar clean. The poor fellow ran out and threw himself into a snow bank. His photo shoot and fun is postponed for a day or two.

I hope he likes the snow because I plan to send it all home with him when he leaves. They’re predicting 12 to 18 inches before this storm is over. I sure hope Deborah’s lawn boy knows how to use a shovel!

xo-jj

Go with the flow

 

Sometimes I feel deeply connected in a way that is hard to describe. It’s a good feeling providing I don’t fight it or think too much.  This is the time to just go with the flow and enjoy where it takes me. It’s the kind of day when I relish a little alone time to appreciate my life.

I started my day with a new kind of workout. It’s a yoga practice that is a little different,  full of dynamic energy and hip music. I’ve practiced Hatha yoga on and off for years but more recently I discovered a new form of practice and I love it.

I discovered Kundalini yoga by Ana Brett and Ravi Singh. This dynamic duo has taken an ancient and fairly sobering practice of yoga and given it a bit of a twist with big breath of fresh air, new age style. I love the way yoga makes me feel but get very bored with the same old stuff. So I peruse the Fit TV channel from time to time for new workouts. I tried Ana and Ravi’s 16 minute beginning yoga workout and I”m hooked. I fell in love with the up-beat music and felt inspired when the workout was over.  I can’t wait to get the 2 dvd’s I ordered. If you’re intrigued to learn more check out the Ravi Ana store.

I had a little visitor show up at my door this weekend, stay tuned for more details on that.

Enjoy your day!

xo-jj

Notes to myself

You don’t have to be all things, all-knowing, or perfect.

What if you are just you, your true self, flaws and all.

It’s okay if you’re not good at everything.

It’s okay to be yourself.

No one cares if your outfit is a little mismatched, a bit wrinkled, or tired.

You’re supposed to look older and have a gray hair or two.

The only thing expected of you, is you, your true self, the person living on the inside.

Your job is to just be and nothing else.

Let it happen.

Do you ever wonder why we expect so much of ourselves and why we can’t get over the fact that we aren’t everything we want to be or everything someone else wants us to be? Can you live with yourself as is, without regret? It’s hard but I’m realizing  just how important it is and trying my dammedest to do it.

A while back I talked about the book A Sea of Whispers that I self-published. After receiving my copies, I gave them out as Christmas gifts to my family. I mentioned in a previous post, offering this book in my Etsy shop sometime in the future. That future isn’t today. It still might happen.  I’ve realized that it’s not important to share what I think or feel with the world but to offer something that captures your thoughts and views. I’d like to merge this book into a journal that records your self- discovery and journey through life. A place where you can record your thoughts without being censored. A place where you are free to be your authentic self. This idea gives me something to work on. I plan to talk to the company that published my book and see what we could offer at an affordable price.

We are all on a journey and have a story to tell and that’s important. I have to say my journey would not be the same without each one of you. It’s funny that it’s so easy to share myself with people I’ve never met. Perhaps it’s because we have a certain need or connection that bonds us so tightly. Or maybe we feel comfortable because we never have to meet face to face. It’s kind of like having an imaginary friend. The fact that you are very real sometimes overwhelms me. I can’t believe I have shared so much of myself with all of you.

Thank you for listening and just being there when I needed to share. You’ll never know how much it’s meant to me.

xo-junie

Beneath a turquoise spell

A soft white blanket of snow is freshly planted outside and I am sitting snug and warm inside while nursing a cold. I felt the inkling of a sore throat coming on yesterday about mid-way through my twelve-hour shift- yearly inventory. Today will be a good day to catch up on my office work while enjoying a cup of hot and steamy. Homemade chicken soup sounds perfect right now, wish I had a wife or a husband who cooked.

 

For some strange reason I’m on a turquoise binge. I know most people go on food binges, drinking binges and even shopping binges (I’m guilty of the last one) but instead I go on color binges. In the past two weeks I’ve bought two gorgeous lamps in turquoise for my bedroom, a turquoise ring and a turquoise purse. I found this website called everything turquoise and fell in love with this.

Love the turquoise wainscoting and the yummy bedding, actually I’m spellbound by this room, I love everything about it! I can see myself snuggled deep within the covers with a pile of decor magazines along side.  A scented candle is burning the aroma of fresh air and coconuts while my hubby is busy in the kitchen preparing the chicken stock for his homemade soup. A girl can dream, can’t she?

also loved this from the house of turquoise. This room is so beachy and bright, I love the painted stairs decorated with little piles of  beach stones.This color soothes me but at the same time it energizes and refreshes me. It’s strange how something as simple as color can have such a dramatic effect. Perhaps I’m just craving bright blue skies and deep blue oceans instead of white on white with a few blades of brown grass peeking through and pale gray skies overhead. I’m so over winter!

 

 

I keep a little pile of beach stones on my night stand, right next to my turquoise lamp. Well, it’s time for another yummy cup of something toasty, perhaps even chocolately. Mmmm!

Take care…

xo-jj

I’m Smitten

You know the feeling when you see something and instantly you’re smitten, in love and well just crazy about it. That’s how I feel about Sylvia, the beautifully chic OWOH giveaway by Christine a very, very talented doll artist. If you aren’t already familiar with the fabulous girls she creates take a peek over at Du Buh Du Designs.

I’m in love…

If you haven’t hopped on the OWOH carpet to tour the world of inspiring blogs and generous giveaways be sure to do so before the magic ends. 

xo-jj 

What keeps you real?

Sometimes I get caught up in all the crazy things in life and forget the important stuff. It’s vital to give time and validation to the people who are most important in your life.  A simple call means so much to a sick friend and a quick visit can make someone’s day. I admit to being self-centered and completely unaware or forgetful of things and people at times. It’s important that I stay grounded and not let my mind wander too far off track. I’m the kind of person who needs time to wander both mentally and physically. I need to putter and create, take a rest and then get back on track. Maybe it’s my gypsy roots that navigates my psyche or perhaps it’s because I’m never satisfied with one hobby, one project or just one job at a time. Sometimes I exhaust myself.

I worked most of the day at Pottery Barn and then I spent my paycheck. Some days I’d be better off just staying home but then I’d miss out on things like this….

Do you love it, or is it just me?

How about this clean, crisp look, for spring?

I love these found soda bottles. They’re vintage and range in age from 60 to 100 years old. Good thing they’re available by catalog and internet only.

It’s great to work in a place you love as long as you can refrain from taking home all the merchandise

love…

jj

Designer walls in the blink of an eye, I’m in love!

I’m so excited and wowed by the wall decals offered on Etsy, I just had to share. I love, love the designs and there are so many! I have an open wall in my entry that is screaming for something and I think I have found the perfect solution, well, almost. There are so many beautiful designs that I just can’t chose. I’ll probably go with something like the one above.

 

Is this flower girl motif, not, fabulous? I’m in love! I wish I had a room that she could take center stage in. There are so many fun and funky designs that I want to share with you.

 

 

This owl design is so fun and trendy, I love it. The wall in this image is close to my entry way color and I debated a bit between the branch with birds or the owl. I think the formality of the first design may look a little more at home there but I love this look.

 

 

 

 

This motiff looks amazing, it adds a designer touch to this room.  The look is quite modern and clean. The decals have a matte finish and look painted. They are easily applied and totally removable. Well at least that’s what the disclaimer says. I guess I’ll have to find out for myself.

 

 

They are all stunning including this wall of birches with woodland creatures. I have to think about it a little more before I make my choice. I can’t wait to try this out for myself!

 

Busy day today, interview this morning, gymboree with the princess this afternoon and then an hour and a half drive to a planning committee thing, tonight. If you happen to visit the Mid-Michigan area today I’ll be the crazy chick driving around in a super girl cape, if only, I could really use one of those today.

 

I’d like to say “hey” to all the first time visitors from OWOH. If you haven’t done so yet scrool down to the previous post and take a ride on the magic carpet.

Enjoy…

xo-jj

 

OWOH Magic Carpet Ride, give-away

Imagine yourself traveling around the country and across the world to far away places you have never experienced. The people welcome you with open arms, open minds and open hearts. Their love and support is genuine and happens on days when you need it most.  It’s spiritual, beautiful and feels like something out of a fairy tale.

I began blogging a couple years ago just before the OWOH event. I saw an invitation for this very special tour and decided to go for it. I have to say it was truly one of the best things I’ve ever done.

I began blogging in search of other people who were like me, open-minded, creative and a bit whimsical. I found all of that but more importantly, I found myself, in all of you. Thank you for that.

The item I want to share with one special blogger is a necklace I made on a day when I was feeling a wave of hope for peace and understanding around the world. This necklace symbolizes my love for nature and serenity and my hope that some day we will all be one world living in peace.

It’s made with beads, vintage and new, they’re intermingled with fabric flowers and then strung on a silver necklace. To enter the drawing you must type a little message after this post. Be sure that your comment has a valid email addy attached so I can make contact if you are the winner.

 

Enter the drawing for my peace-offering and then click on the magic carpet above. You will be instantly transported to the starting point for a wonderful opportunity to take a  magic carpet ride around the world.  Thank you Lisa, our Whimsical Bohemian, for this opportunity to share our world and our hearts.

xo-jj

A little chit chat on a slow Thursday

I’m thinking about making a change with a pallet of  seaside colors. My house is painted in Tuscan hues and it suits me well but lately I’ve contemplated  somthing a little more Zen for my master bedroom and bath, colors that resembles a spa-like atmosphere.  A hint of sand and a whisper of turquoise might do the trick but I don’t want it to stick out like a  chicken with lips. It has to blend with the rest of the house. That might be tricky.

The little vintage chair in the picture above is my inspiration for the room. I found it at a garage sale for 3 bucks. It has been partly stripped which left fabulous layers of ocean blues and sea greens over a base of sandy  brown. The shift in colors are subtle and light and just perfect. I bought it and left it as is. I’ve paired it with a creamy white vanity, accented with a green vase of peacock feathers. I love the look but not so sure I can fit it into my decor on a larger scale, any ideas?

If I were to go on a total splurge I’d buy a new bedroom set in creamy white and paint my walls in the lightest sky blue, new paintings, new duvet cover,etc. $$$  I don’t see that happening any time too soon.

No matter…. it’s the people and pets that make a house a home, right?

On that note I thought I would update you on the beautiful Manx cat I dreamt about before he showed up on my door step and adopted me. Ricky-Bobby has gone from a frequent visitor to a full-time resident. He still spends much of his time in the woods and meadow that surround the house but comes inside to eat and sleep and kill my Canary but that’s a whole other story. I needed a new pet like I needed a new hole in my head but I’m a sucker for a sad face and somebody out there knows it.

The other kitties (only 2 left)  that followed him here are still wild but we spent the time and money to capture and neuter them. Mr. Java has the bite marks to prove it. They peek in the windows and sneak through the doggy door to sleep in the garage when it gets too cold. Remember how Mr. Java had such a fit because I was feeding them? Guess who feeds them now, he caved.

Well, thats all for a slow thursday. Hey Deb guess what? The suns out. Thanks for sending it my way. Now how about those lemons? he hee…

xo-jj

I’m getting ready for a trip around the world

When I first entered blog land a few years ago I hopped in with both feet by joining One World One Heart.  I loved the idea of people connecting from around the globe. It was an opportunity to share my world and something I made with a complete stranger who could be from anywhere. OWOH introduced me to some truly wonderful people and artists from around the world. I missed my opportunity to join last year but I have jumped on the band wagon just in time to take part this year. 

I already have what I think is the perfect treasure to give away. It’s something I made a while back with the inspiration for freedom and the hope of living in a world of peace and acceptance. I can’t wait to become a part of this inspirational group once again. In 2009 there were 911 bloggers who participated from a total of 28 different countries- that’s amazing! This international event brings kindred spirits from all walks of life together and spreads a wave of love that’s hard to describe.

This could be a wonderful experience for you to meet new people and an opportunity to receive something lovingly made or bought by a kindred spirit from around the world. So stop by on January 25th when OWOH begins and sign up for my drawing. On that day’s post I’ll have a link to the whimsical bohemian so you can take a magic carpet ride around the world. Pack your bags for this fabulous trip that begins on January 25th and ends on February the 15th.

I can’t wait!

xo-jj

Lusty green and playful pink

The shelves are dusted and newly stocked items have been carefully displayed in the studio.

A faded rose just outside my window

melting into the perfect whisp of pink

a luring scent

a climbing tendril

the whisper of fall

It’s the little things that make the difference

 

The dream:

 a world without conflict

 life in a peaceful kingdom

love for all 

Feeling a lust for
Lush green
and the need for
cool waters

Wishing you a peaceful day of lusty green and whisper pink.

xo-jj

 

Winter’s prelude:A frosty kiss and a full moon

 

Picture yourself in warm woolen mittens, cashmere scarf, cable knit sweater, and toasty leather boots wandering a frozen wonderland filled with tiny crystals of light.  Your cheeks are flushed with a kiss of frost as the morning sun deposits her promise for a beautiful autumn’s day.  Yeah, it was something like that!

Just trying to get used to the idea of winter slowly making her debut. I love the dance of nature but winter gets to be too much of a drag for me.  No violins yet, it’s only the beginning of October and this is just a winter’s prelude. The moon is full and so is my wine glass. Sigh……

goodnight moon

xo-jj

A fresh day

 

A fresh day filled with time and possibilities. An open mind on a path to discovery. The engine running, a tank filled with gas and me. It’s amazing what can happen when everything comes together in a perfect fit. 

Sometimes I can feel it; the day is right and almost anything is possible. I think I’ve finally learned to trust my instincts and seize the moment. My window is open as the breeze gently nudges me awake- I feel so alive. It’s time to refresh and take another fork in the road. I don’t know where it will lead, but there it is, all laid out before me, tempting, promising and it feels right. It only takes a step or two, one foot in front of the other, eyes straight ahead, no reason to fear or look back. Trust yourself, trust the moment, trust the universe, and go all the way.

Do you feel it?

xo-jj

Prelude to a Kiss

A short break in the rain allowed me a trip through the garden for the last cuttings of the year. A handful of roses and a small bouquet of lavender made the perfect centerpiece on my breakfast table. A little romance for breakfast never hurt anybody!

 

Prelude to a kiss

 Kind words are softly spoken

as two lips tenderly melt into one.

A look,

a feeling,

a spell is cast,

and the dance begins.

The arrangement not only made the perfect decoration for my table this romantic image made its way into my studio. I loved the look so much, I decided it was worthy of forever. The title was inspired by one of my favorite movies with the same title. Here’s a clip of Meg Ryan’s Prelude to a Kiss. 

I just had to mention a special friend and her perfect day- she so deserves it! Click on the image and take a quick trip. There is nothing more special than a loyal friend!

 

The artwork and award are by a very talented artist Ces, check out her amazing work.

My wish for you- an extra special weekend!

xo-jj

Monday blues

( I made this collage in a writing  journal a while back. It seemed fitting for today’s post)

I applied to a handful of companies where I could see myself working and now I’m waiting, mulling over and wondering what will be. I feel as though I’m in a sort of holding pattern, floating directly above all decisions, all destinations, just waiting for something to happen. I’m at a fork in the road with no clear direction. Here I sit waiting for a sign before I proceed down the road of life. A part of me says move on don’t wait for an answer and then another voice speaks up to say, be patient- take your time. How long should I wait for that tolerable job to come calling before I submit to another stint of cubicle incarceration. I just can’t see myself back in a desk job but if I’m too picky I may never snag that second job.  Hmmmm, a little help here.

I’m looking for the perfect job or maybe just a few words of wisdom….anyone?

xo-jj

Seeing things from a different perspective

 

I decided that today was the perfect day for a little extra color, something a bit unusual. So I digitally painted this otherwise tipical image of a  sunflower in hopes that just maybe it would brighten up an oh so grey fall day.  I love the passionate blues and cozy butter tones, it’s fresh and new. Michigan isn’t known for its sunshine but I have to say I don’t ever remember a year with more grey days and bitter temperatures than this one.

I’ve decided not to let the grey skies paint my mood. So today as I’m driving my car, running in and out of buildings and going about a normal day, I’ll keep my eye out for little bits of  color and inspiration where ever I can find it.  I wonder how different things could look if I changed my focus just a smidge. Just now looking out my window I notice how green the grass looks in the absence of sun. Perhaps those grey lifeless skies will be the perfect backdrop for a wide array of fall colors or maybe I’ll be surprised by a few snowflakes quietly falling on my windshield. The forcast is calling for a few flakes. I’ll let you know how this little experiment or shift in attitude works out.

Enjoy your day from a different perspective and see what happens.

xo-jj

Diary of the girl next door

Dear Diary,

If you are white, are a girl, have a family and look pretty ordinary than you just might be considered the girl next door. I never really subscribed to that theory or most other stereo types initiated by the middle class. Growing up middle class in a small town I felt protected, a little ordinary maybe but still protected. I never worried about whether there would be food on the table, a warm bed to sleep in and I never thought about violence of any kind. I wasn’t allowed to watch R-rated movies (which are more like the PG movies of today) and anything labeled adult conversation was not spoken in front of the children, ever!  I was a country girl from the mid-west and knew very little about life outside small town America. It was implied that I would finish school, get married and raise a family, whether I had a career or not was up for grabs.  Things were pretty simple and quite ordinary back then. I was considered the girl next door. I knew a lot of girl next door types and some were quite ordinary like me but then there were others that were anything but ordinary.  They might have been considered the girl next door at first glance but if truth be told their membership would be revoked in a heart beat. But the world was a little more polite back then (I’m talking the late 70’s- early 80’s)  and we lived by the golden rule of don’t ask- don’t tell. I’m not so sure that’s a good rule, well it doesn’t really matter because that rule has changed. Kids are no longer sweet & innocent until they arrive at adulthood and you’ll be hard-pressed to find a sixteen year old kid that hasn’t seen at least one R-rated movie.

So what happened? Is it a good thing that the girl next door doesn’t  exist anymore. Are we any safer now that our kids know what the world is all about both good and bad? What they don’t know can be googled  in 30 seconds, anyway. Although, I believe it’s dangerous to be too naive, fear invokes limitations on people.  They used to say “what you don’t know can’t hurt you” but today there isn’t much we don’t know. That theory was completely bogus anyway.

Now that this middle class- girl next door approaches middle age she kind-of, sort-of misses her bubble of innocence but then she also wonders what would have been if that bubble had never existed in the first place.  What if I’d known then what I know now…

xo-jj

Everything is on it’s way to somewhere

 

“Everything is on it’s way to somewhere”, ran through my mind as I captured this series of  images. The breeze gently carried each and every tiny seed across the field in a hurry. It looked alot like my life, with bits and pieces of me rushing about going here and there, without an inkling of destination.

Life has been busy this past week and I haven’t had any time to chat-a  sick child, me playing the role of baby nanny and a new job. My seeds were scattered in all directions but as things began to quiet down I headed out with my camera on a mission to capture the journey of life. It was refreshing and now my child has recovered, batteries are recharged and my seeds are ready for a new journey- destination unknown, of course.

 

 

This one is my fave and I will probably make it available in my shop when I get some time- who knows when that will be- Soon I hope!

 

These tiny seeds are wrapped in a ball of fluff, their design is perfect and the sight of them taking flight is beautiful .  I tried to capture the magic as I saw it but I think you just had to be there.

xo-jj

You’re my first

I sold this writing  journal in my studio a year ago.

I think firsts are so important, first kiss, first birthdays, first house, etc. There is nothing like the first time. You just can’t recreate that feeling of a first time discovery or indulgence. I am very open to trying new things and I love to look at things in a new way. It’s called a beginners mind and it allows me to realize that every single moment carries something distinctive within it. You could say it’s kind of a Zen thing or child-like. The possibilities are endless when your in this state of mind. Although I am very open and love to try new things, MR. Java is not and does not. So every once in a while I feel it necessary to surprise him with something that he would never do if given the choice. Something totally spontaneous and maybe a little crazy. He usually resists and groans a bit in the beginning but we almost always end up having a great time. So for our anniversary I decided to do something a little unusual for him. Tonight we will embark on a ghost tour of Detroit. He and I and a couple of friends will board a bus along with 14 other brave souls,  to several locations known to have paranormal activity. This is way out of the normal realm of things for us but thats what makes it perfect. He thinks we’re just going to dinner… he hee!  

MR. Java has been way too into work lately and needs a diversion in the worst way. I can see it now- he will give me a squinty eyed glance and shake his head, as if to say, what have you gotten us into now- I love that look, it makes me smile.   

They always make me smile!

Speaking of things that make me smile, I have to share something incredible with you. It’s a youtube video that is so worth a moment of your time. It took place in Chicago, the magnitude of so many people doing the same thing simultaneously, in perfect harmony, just blew me away. Keep an eye on Oprah and the total joy on her face. Notice the crazy girl in the front-she’s the only one dancing at first but then… The energy of this video is infectious-  you just have to see/feel it for yourself!   I got a feeling!!!

Isn’t that incredible? I would have loved to have been there! Like Oprah said it’s JOY Rising!  My favorite part is the wave toward the end when everyone is touching the person next to them. I love the upbeat music of the Black-eyed Peas but the energy in the crowd is phenominal- if this can’t inspire world peace, nothing can. I have to confess something  a little embarresing, this video made shed a tear because it was so beautiful!

xo-jj

Witches Night Out

 

Picture me in a long pink wig, sleek black dress, black boots and a pointy hat. I will have a spooky martini in one hand and the remote in the other. Why? you ask. Well my pretties, tonight is my turn to host this months girls night with a witchy twist of course. We will feast on a caldron filled with a mysterious concoction, sure to delight any witch with an appetite. Next comes the toast to a good spell of wishes come true and friendships that never end. Then we will settle into a comfy sofa or two to enjoy the cult film, Practical Magic. It will be an evening of laughter and witchy tales too good to miss. I wish you all could be here to enjoy my:

 Espresso Martini

• 2 cups freshly brewed espresso, chilled
• 2 cups orange-flavored vodka (recommended: Stoli Ohrani)
• 1 cup coffee liqueur (recommended: Kahlua)
• 8 slices orange peel, twisted

Directions

Fill a cocktail shaker halfway with ice. Add the espresso, vodka, and coffee liqueur. Shake for 30 seconds, or until foamy. Strain into a chilled martini glass and decorate with the orange peel. Serve at once.

Along with a bewitching casserole

concocted with a few secret ingredients.

So close your eyes,  put on your pointy hat, and then click your heels 3 times to join me (in spirit) and my friends for a night of fun and laughter.

Cheers!

xo-jj

Tunnel Vision

Over the past year and a half I’ve been working a little from home and enjoying a respit from the every day office scene. It’s been different and nice. You would think that by this time my house would be completely organized and I would be totally up to date on all current events. But somehow I feel less informed and my house is the same- looks good unless you open the closets-  beware of falling debrie!  I quite often boycott the news because I don’t want to hear about the unemployment rate for the fifth time today and I really don’t care about the political views of our daily talk show hosts. I am quite often guilty of tunnel vision and only see whats right in front of me or what directly affects me, me and oh yeah, me.

With my head in the sand, I’ve been left with several questions like: what happened to daylight savings- weren’t we supposed to fall back already? When are our troops coming back from Iraq, did we enter some sort of extension or just decide to stay? Has New Orleans recovered from the flood, is the city rebuilt and is it business as usual fo her residents? Who killed Jonbenet Ramsey and what happened to the former president , has he officially become a missing person?

It was easy to stay on top of the news or daily current events  when I was working with a political junkie, a religious zealot and Ms. CNBC but now I am totally and quite blissfully, I might add, unaware of whats happening in the world today. Is that wrong?

I have started a new part-time job but there really isn’t much to report yet. It seems my new place of employment is nothing like the highly organized, rule oriented place I left behind. They can’t seem to keep a manager long enough to begin training for the new hires. I get a call almost daily explaining a new plan. I’m told it will be some time next week but no exact date and time as of yet. Now, I understand why they asked if I was flexible- flexible yes, unorganized a little, confused quite often… hmmmm, maybe I’ll fit right in 

xo-jj

Grazing the Moon

The Story:

A seed is planted without any guarantees. No way to know if it will grow and prosper, but the anticipation is worth the risk. The meadow outside my window is tended to by a horticulturist who from time to time plants a few seeds for no reason other than he can. I have the privilege of waiting and watching.  Sometimes they emerge from the ground as tiny shoots and then wither away in the harsh Michigan weather but other times they prosper and spread far and wide. I remember a year or so ago watching this man toss seeds about, the very same seeds that I have enjoyed from behind the lens of my camera. He probably never imagined that his actions would befall the eyes of so many.

 So as you’re reaching for the stars and when you sometimes graze the moon remember every action causes a ripple and leaves a mark forever- you can’t fall out of time.

I added this image and the story behind it to my studio. Thanks Doc….

xo-jj

Color me Pink

I’m having a little color envy today. I love fall and her vibrant colors but I was in need of something a little lighter, something soft and dreamy. This pic filled the order nicely. It feels like only a few days have passed since I took this image when actually its been several months.

 I’m looking forward to the greet and treat tomorrow night. I love to see all the little kiddos donning their favorite costumes. A few well placed candles flickering on the porch and me sitting in an open window with a big bowl of chocolate goodies in my lap.  My favorite music playing in the background and Mr. Java making the trip from the great room sofa to my office every now and then to take a peek at the scene. I sit on a stool just inside my window unless the weather is unusually warm, which is rare for Halloween night.

Have a spooky but safe Halloween and save some chocolate for the kids!

xo-jj

Cozy incarceration

It’s quickly approaching the time of year when our thoughts turn inward. It’s time to cozy up our homes with a warm blanket or a new set of flannel sheets.  Freshly baked pumpkin muffins and a hot cup of tea  comes to mind as the perfect afternoon snack. I am not a fan of winter but I do enjoy cozy thoughts, like a big bowl of homemade soup, (wide egg noodles, chicken stock, roaster chicken, chanterelle mushrooms, fresh herbs and lots of garlic) a cup of hot chocolate with whipped cream, or a pair of fuzzy slippers and a thick fury blanket.

I’ve begun the process of cozying up my home with a few softly scented candles and a new fofur sofa throw. I’m currently on the hunt for the perfect pair of cozy slippers and a new pair of woolen mittens. The long dark winter of cold and incarceration makes me feel as though I’m being punished, which initiates the sense of entitlement that forces me to treat myself to a few comforts along the way. I have yet to make it through a holiday shopping season without buying myself a new pair of warm pj’s and a fresh set of flannel sheets.  The notion that finding the perfect pair of boots and a few other toasty accessories will somehow make the winter a little more tolerable has been debunked but that doesn’t stop me from trying it again and again. So I’m gearing up for the up-coming months of hibernation but I’m trying to enter this season with fresh eyes and an upbeat attitude. A few months of cozy incarceration never killed anybody, right? If you said right, then I have to ask- how well do you know Junie? Cabin fever here I come!!!

xo-jj

A sea of whispers

A little seascape made from reminants of my 2007 sanibel vacation.

It’s time to make my reservations for another spring break by the sea. Every year I pick out a cottage on-line with a preconceived notion of how it will look. It’s always perfectly fine and usually quite lovely but never exactly as I envision. Below is what I’ve imagined for this year…

Standing alone in the silent little rented cottage, she sighed and sat down in a comfy slip covered chair near the open window. The warm salty breeze felt wonderful against her skin. She loved the way the long sheer curtains blew across the floor. It felt as though the room was alive and breathing.    This cottage had a life of its own and somehow offered a sense of companionship. The old girl had once been a care takers cottage to the slightly dilapidated mansion up the hill.  It wasn’t in the best of shape and the weeds and wild roses had grown up all around but she kind of liked it that way. It felt hidden and safe, just like her secrets; the ones that she had locked away in the vault so long ago. This cabin was part of a cottage row and the closest one to the sea. All of the cottages were old and failing but somehow this old girl had fared the best. She was still quite structurally sound. The inside was painted a creamy Casablanca white. The ceiling was cedar and there was a large wooden beam across the middle. The cupboards were cottage blue with weathered metal handles. The square kitchen table had a chopping block for a top, and faded blue legs. The chairs were wooden, straight back- two painted cottage blue and the other two in a sunny yellow. The appliances were white, quite old but still very functional.  The floor boards were wide wooden planks and in some places the gaps between them were wide enough to see the sandy soil below. She didn’t mind and felt a kindred spirit toward this old place.  The gardens, now slightly overgrown, must have been someone’s pride and joy. There were so many wonderful flowers that had been carefully planted along the picket fence. The colors of the roses blended together perfectly. The soft peachy roses next the baby pinks then fading into the creamy off-whites and finally a stellar white to end the row. She loved the honey suckle vine that climbed the trellis wall; the smell was divine.

The setting here was lovely and mysterious. The old cottages seemed all but forgotten and the intriguing Mansion on the hill looked so ominous. All of this was constructed so masterfully on beautifully lush grounds overlooking the sea.

I have a vivid imagination that is hard to live up to. Enough day dreaming- off to work!

xo-jj

The promise

“A promise for the future floats on the breeze in moments of laughter because everyone has a place and everything is on its way to somewhere.”

 I wrote that on a day when I needed to hear it but came across it yesterday while putting together some tidbits for a book that I plan to self-publish soon. Yeah…..

There must be a little ghosty-ghost playing with my cable because it goes out of service and then back on again at the very same time every few days. Comcast can’t figure it out and neither can I. It’s a mystery…..

xo-jj

 

Unremarkably perfect

The day floated by without making a sound, it was perfect and yet totally unremarkable. A soft 60 degrees with a gentle sun over head. The optimal weekend to finish outdoor chores or take a long walk. It was an appropriate way to say goodbye to fall. An old sweatshirt, soft and faded, loose-fitting jeans with a hole in the knee- my favorite pair, and flip flops, that were off by mid-afternoon- bare feet. You heard it right- bare feet in November!

 Last night I enjoyed a blissful night of sleep with my window cracked open just enough to allow a lingering smell of burning leaves through the crack.  I awoke this morning to temperatures in the fifties. I felt a bit like Dorothy in the wizard of Oz when she found that her house had been planted in a different place- this can’t be Michigan- it’s mid-november and weather like this almost never happens this time of year. I loved every degree of it! I hope you enjoyed a little weekend bliss, as well… Happy Monday!

xo-jj

Me with a frosty nose and a cup of Joe

I bundled up this morning for a frosty walk down the lane.  The sun was fighting its way through the frigid mist on the pond.  What a beautiful way to wake up. Me in my pjs and a long wool coat and high heel clogs (they were handy) trudging down the hill with my camera in one hand and a cup of Joe in the other. Three feral cats from the neighborhood were following not far behind. I felt a bit like the pied piper ( no flute though). As I got closer to the water, I could see the fog lifting and a few geese enjoying a frosty swim. Brrrr…

I can handle a little frosty weather as long as the sun promises to stick around.

My book is done and I’m waiting for a copy so I can inspect the quality and decide if I want to sell it in the studio. I’ve been working a little at Pottery Barn and yes my cable has been out intermittently. No resolution as of yet. It’s getting old. I’ve been mulling over my Christmas list and thinking about the menu for Thanksgiving. Wow I can’t believe it’s that time of year again. It seems like only a day or so ago I was cheering for spring. Of course I’ve already started shopping for Princess 1 and Princess 2, I just hope there’s money left for the rest of the fam. Tee he…

BTW happy V day

So whats happening in your neck of the woods?

xo-jj

Fobot fabulous

      Are you looking for that perfect Christmas gift for the hard to please woman on your list? Me too. I found this little goodie on Anthropologie.com a few weeks ago and feel in love until I saw the price it was somewhere in the neighborhood of $300.00 Whoa! well Fobot Betty is no longer available but that got me to thinking how easy it would be to make a little betty out of a few odd and ends I have around the house. So one of these days when I have some spare time, ha ha, I may just whip something up. I mentioned in my last post that I have started shopping for the princess and Dear Renee asked what kind of gifts I had in mind. Well, this year it is all about strawberry shortcake, the movie the dolls, and yes the doll house. She’s crazy for little Strawberry Shortcake- loves everything about her.

 

She is adorable and smells even better than she looks and if that’s what the princess wants thats what  she gets. Most of my gift buying will be done at Pottery Barn this year, I work there and get a 40% discount, plus the merchandise is wonderful.

The sparkle collection and the peace tree accessories are my favorites. I love to mix rustic and elegant together. Just this morning I trudged out to the words and cut off a big knarly branch to display in one of my vases. It’s the perfect rugged touch. It looked better when I first brought it in because it was covered in glistening frost, hmm, maybe I’ll spray it with a little frosty glitter and seal it.

Now if I can figure out a way to not spend my whole pay check I’ll be doing much better.

In other news the cable guy is coming over again tomorrow to try to figure out my intermittent service problem. That’s one of the reasons for my inconsistent posting. Yeah I’m sticking with that excuse!

I know, I know it’s not even Thanksgiving yet but I’m getting in the Christmas spirit already, even though the weather has been frosty in the morning but a gorgeous 50 degrees and sunny by mid afternoon- only in Michigan.

xo-jj

forest sparkles and secret wishes

 

Drizzle, drizzle, no rain just a little frost melting off the branches. I wish you could have seen the beautiful trees in the woods this morning as the sun twinkled through the branches. The sound in the forest was that of a mild rain shower as the ice slowly melted off the trees. It was lovely….

A few berries were left on the trees and the sky was the perfect shade of blue. It was very cold but the sunlight reflecting off the drippy branches made it dreamy. There were so many other things I should’ve been doing but there was no other place I wanted to be. The sun makes everything better- I crave sunny days and we get so few here.

Last June I began to think about what makes a home cozy and for some reason I thought a big fat cat added that cozy feel and helped make a house a home. I didn’t own a cat at the time so I pondered the idea of getting one but didn’t. Well not long after that a big fat bob-tailed cat showed up at my door, followed shortly after that by momma cat and her babies. How did they know?  A few days later I started thinking about an old friend and began wondering what had happened to her,I wrote about her in my diary and then two weeks later she contacted me.  Hmmm… Over the past few months I have been applying for jobs in hopes of supplemented my very minor income but my heart wasn’t in it. But just a few weeks ago I started to feel a little more motivated and wished for a little work outside my studio and guess what happened? I got several calls for an interview and got hired.  It’s funny and sometimes a little scary when that happens. I guess the moral of this little story is be careful what you wish for…  Sometimes it happens!

Have a great weekend y’all

(p.s. I’ve always secretly wished to live in the south, near the ocean with a little lemon tree in my yard)

wink, wink…

xo-jj

She’s a little quirky but I’m keeping her

 

Several years ago while on a vintage treasure hunt I came across an old chair. It was simple and sturdy but what I found most intriguing was the chippy paint and delicate details.  I didn’t have a plan for it, so there it sat in my office, lonely and bare, until a few months ago when I decided to give it a purpose and adorned it with a quirky vignette in pink. The hat was found at a vintage clothing shop and the umbrella was used for a recent photo shoot but the shoes are special. They are seldom worn and aren’t the easiest things to walk in but when I do, I become a princess. Why you ask? Well, it could be the silky fabric or maybe it’s the ruffle detail and perfect craftmanship. They are beautiful but I think it’s the way they delicately grace my foot and come to the perfect little point that make them special. It takes me back to a time when I was a little girl playing dress-up in grandma’s closet. 

There is a part of me that desperately wants to de-clutter this place and live in a house of clean lines and open spaces but then that other girl with her quirky style comes out and leaves her trinkets and treasures all over the house. There are days when she really gets on my nerves but at other times she makes me smile and reminds me of the little girl living inside this woman in the mirror.

xo-jj

The simple truth

 

 

Colorful but uncomplicated,

warm and true,

there’s beauty in all things simple

and simplicity in all things beautiful

.

 

Have a warm and beautiful day- keep it simple!

BTW I’ve made a few tweeks and sent my book back to the publisher, it should be available soon. (opps that was a secret)

wahooo!

xo-jj

Feeling kind-of groovy

 

There’s nothing like meeting an old friend you haven’t seen in over 25 years. We were high school buddies that lost touch after graduation. We hugged, we laughed, we shopped it was amazing, just like we picked up where we left off. It’s funny how we think we’ve changed so much until we go back in time with a friend and realize that “hey, I am the same person I was  many years ago but just a little wiser and calmer. ” Before the day was over we both promised to meet again, sometime soon and we will. 

Last night I got out a few holiday decorations and played around a bit. I love vintage looking bulbs and ornaments like bottle brush trees, mercury bulbs and oh yes I love, love my little blue deer. He is so groovy with his retro good looks and sparkly glitter and he has the tiniest bell around his neck. 

Some of you had a few questions about the book, “A Sea of Whispers”, well this started out as a novel that never got published.  I’ve now taken the idea in a totally different direction.  Instead of a story about a woman whose life didn’t turn out as she planned, it became a book of inspiration through images and words. How does a novel become a coffee table book of inspiration, well remember who you’re talking to, the girl who changes course in mid-stream at the blink of an eye.  Wink, Wink…   This book is self-published and I hope to sell it in my e-store. I have to say that the quality of this book took me by surprise, it was superb. I was so afraid that the images may turn out too flat or pixellated or that my choice of lay-outs wouldn’t look just right. But as soon as  I unwrapped it, I feel in love. It feels wonderful in my hands and the images and layouts are exceptional. I made a couple tweaks and added a thing or two and then back to the publishing company it went. It’s not a cheap book to print but then I couldn’t except anything but the best quality. As soon as it comes back from the printer I will take some pics and share. I’ll keep you posted. Writing a book and being published has always been a dream of mine and so I decided to take matters into my own hands and just do it. I can’t wait to share it with you!

 Well I’m off to get everything ready for my son, who is flying home from Oregon tomorrow. Yeah…. I hope he’s home for good. He ’s a bit like his mother with stars in his eyes and wander-lust in his heart. 

Have a magical Wednesday!!!

xo-jj

 

My words

This little pile of rocks lives on a pedestal in my great room. I love, love smooth rocks from the cool waters of Lake Superior. The flat rocks are perfect for painting little messages. The trust rock encompasses so many areas of my life; my trust in family and friends,  trust in my faith, and trust in the universe. You have to trust!

Trust me when I say, “everyone has a purpose and everything is on its way to somewhere- I promise!”

Have a great day!

xo-jj

The sumptuous table

Its time to get down to business, make a plan, a theme, or at least a menu for goodness sakes. I’m looking for that extra something that makes a Thanksgiving dinner special. The wonderful smells coming from the kitchen as the turkey turns to a golden brown are nice and the festive look of a crisp white table-cloth and fresh flowers certainly helps but there’s something else I’m looking for. It’s that feeling of welcomeness, the sound of engaging conversation and oh yes, that intimate connection of family. Every year I scurry around in an attempt to make everything look just right, details, details, and prepare something  a little out of the ordinary to make the dinner extra special. When none of that really matters at all because all of the ingredients needed for the perfect meal over a sumptuous table is already in place the moment the family arrives.

*Not five minutes after posting this I looked out my window and no more than three feet away was a big tom turkey strutting himself across the yard. I guess this was his way of reminding me who is really the star of most Thanksgiving Day tables.

xo-jj

I’m Thankful…

 

Sometimes you can’t ask for more. This was the scene outside my windshield saturday evening as I was driving home. It was just beautiful and so surreal.  It made me feel thankful for everything in my life. No things aren’t perfect, far from it, but I am blessed to have what I have and that includes all of you. Although, I don’t like the cold and I still dream of living in a little cottage on the beach, you can’t beat the wildlife, turkeys, deer, raccoon, blue heron, etc, livng  just beyound my window or the gorgeous midwestern landscape surrounding me. Sometimes I can’t believe that I live right in the middle of it all. Now go out and enjoy your day- every tiny moment of it!

xo-jj

My new gig and a great pair of sexy boots

 I’ve been up to something in the last few weeks and I’m now ready to share it with you. I’m never happy unless I’m wearing at least 2 or 3 hats and my latest gig makes about  4.

I’ve been asked to write Lansing’s budget fashion column and well I just couldn’t turn it down. It’s done under my legal name- kind of essential if I want to get paid.   Check it out here   I’d welcome your ideas for future articles.

Hear we go into a new season with the same old wardrobe that looks a little tired. If only there was a way to wake up your closet without costing a fortune. It’s time for a secret weapon to give that Plain Jane outfit a little attitude. Every wardrobe needs the perfect pair of sexy boots for a punch of confidence. It’s the ultimate accessory to spice up your favorite pair of jeans or add a kick to that sweater dress hanging at the back of your closet. A great pair of boots won’t cost you an arm and a leg if you know where to shop. Forever 21 has a plethora of sexy styles in a number of chic finishes. You can choose from a great little number like the Addiction ankle boot with great sex appeal or the Madrid riding boot. Forever 21 will deliver great style for around thirty dollars. At these fabulous prices you may want to take home more than one pair. So bring the magic to your wardrobe by making a visit to Eastwood Towne Center’s Forever 21 or shop on-line at Forever21.com

xo-jj

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I’m thankful for… meaningful moments

Every morning I wrap my fingers around a toasty cup of coffee and step outside to watch the day begin. I ponder the mist rising above the sleepy woodland, the leaves rotting on the forest floor, the air thick and damp allowing a generous coat of green moss to prosper.

This is the moment I fall in love with the day, silent, hopeful and posed with the unknown. With the steam rising from my cup, I give thanks for my life and everyone in it. I close my eyes and breathe in the heavy air. I’m thoughtful, thankful and ready for the day to begin.

I give thanks for my life and everyone in it…

Happy Thanksgiving, my friends

xo-jj

Two parties and a little retail therapy

Here I sit in the office trying to be as productive as possible. It’s been a crazy past few days but totally worth it. I’m looking out the window watching two feral kittens undress the little Christmas tree that decorates my porch. I have to laugh, even though it will mean more work for me later.

The little wish fairy above has been busy the last few days making sure my Holiday was just right. First there was a before Thanksgiving meet-up, then a heavy Thanksgiving Day meal, followed by some rather intense retail therapy which concluded with a big birthday bash. After a whirl-wind of over indulging this girl needs some rest but today is Monday which means there are several deadlines and a lot of catch-up to do. 

Oh well, the  past few days were worth it, I ate far too much but had a great time. I even managed to slip in about twenty hours of retail therapy. There were some great deals and I love to shop when everyone is in the Holiday spirit. Black Friday can be fun if you have the right attitude. Now throw in a few wonderful shopping companions and the day is perfect. I’ve almost completed my Christmas shopping list  and it’s not even December yet, thats a first for me.

My last article for the examiner was a guide for the best deals on Black Friday but today I think I’ll write about the importance of buying the right bra. The right bra can make or break your wardrobe and its one of those things, too often over-looked. So off I go to do some research and write my article but first I’ll leave you with a pic of the Princess on her special day admiring her Birthday cake.

 I hope you had a great Holiday. Enjoy your day and don’t forget to take advantage of the on-line deals for Cyber Monday!

xo-jj

The dreamy atmosphere says- they get me

I’m the girl who gets lost in the mood, the atmosphere, and the hype. I walk into a store with the right music, the right colors and an atmosphere with that special something and it’s all over for me. I’m buying whatever they’re selling. Sometimes  you walk into a shop and you just know that they get you. I had that experience a few years ago at a local boutique, Octobermoon. I walked in the door and the music playing was from an artist that I love and listen to often, my favorite scent was floating through the air and when I struck up a conversation with the shop owner I could see so much of myself in her. I knew this would be a place I would frequent often.

This is how I feel when I look at a Martha Stewart Living Magazine or my favorite publication Claire Murray, La Vie and just how I feel when I enter the Anthropologie store or flip through their catalog. I’m instantly smitten and feel transported to a place where adventure and extraordinary style meet. Maybe I’m easily swayed or just maybe I’m the kind of girl who feels more than she thinks.

So many franchises rely on sales or lowest every day price and forgo the nice displays or inspiring atmosphere and in today’s market that works. But there are those shoppers who are swept up by the moment or buy into the dreamy lifestyle rather than the price- believe me they’re out there. Working as a sales associate at Pottery Barn has made me more aware than ever that I’m not alone. The temptation driven by a feeling of plush living works its magic on many.

So tell me what calls do you answer to: price, quality, atmosphere, or just pure temptation? Are you aware of that inner voice, buy me….

xo-jj

This is my time-my moment

Light sparkles through dew drops as they gingerly cling to life,  a multitude of colors dance about in the damp air, as I vow to never let the beauty of nature get old and unappreciated. It’s so easy to just walk by, unaware because our focus is someplace else, the bills that are due next week, the car that needs new tires, dentist appointments that need to be made and the fact that the dog is over due for her shots. So much to think about and so little time to enjoy simple pleasures. We feel as though there is no time to indulge in a blissful moment, or notice a beautiful landscape, a kind gesture from a friend, or the belly laugh of a child.  But there is always time for things that feed the soul and allow our better side to emerge. There is always time….

I took this image  a few weeks ago but hadn’t taken the time to fully appreciate the rainbow of colors or the simple beauty of  reflection until now. I find myself so into the details or what’s coming next that I forget to just purely live in the beauty of a simple moment and breath in everything it has to offer.

I know this is hard for many right now because things are so difficult. But even in difficult times there is beauty, people with kind hearts, a red cardinal in the tree and Christmas lights twinkling throughout the neighborhood. At this very moment I am looking out my window at a small strand of lights wrapped around a tiny potted tree on my porch and I can hear the story of Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer playing in the background. This is my time-my moment.

You can find this image and my story at Studiopink.

xo-jj

The Christmas Box Mystery

The following is an except from the book “The Christmas Box Miracle”

Her husband glanced at the book, then said, “man you’ll buy anything.” She bought the book and they left the store.

About twenty minutes later the couple returned. The man approached me, holding my book out in front of him. “I need ten more copies,” he said. “There’s something really weird about your book,” he said in a hushed tone. “There’s something mystical about it.”

His wife came around the other side of my table. “do you believe in spiritual things?” she asked. “Like voices and promptings?”

“Yes, I said. That’s how the book came to me.” She glanced over at her husband. “We were in different parts of the house tonight when we both heard the voice that told us to come here and find you. I don’t know what this little Christmas book of yours is about, but whatever it is, we’re supposed to share it.”

The orignal story “The Christmas Box” by Paul Evans is one of my all time favorite books and a story I read each and every year just days before Christmas.  But for some strange reason every year it comes up missing. So every year I go grumbling to the book store and buy another copy. This year is no different. I can’t imagine what must be happening to the book year after year. Just this morning I looked high and low for my copy but no “Christmas Box” to be found. It’s a crazy mystery but one that has sent me to the book store three years in a row. So this Holiday season I will once again be paying a visit to our local book store in hopes that they have at least one copy left on the shelf.

You may think I’m crazy but believe me it’s that good. Go out and get this beautiful book for yourself or give it as a heart warming gift, just be sure to leave at least one copy for me. It will melt your heart I promise…

xo-jj

My weekend: one santa, a few baubles and a lot of glitter

 

 

 

A visit to Santa, a cup of  hot cocoa, a great movie- “The Holiday”, a warm fire and the last of the Christmas baubles scattered about; is a recap of my weekend. Christmas time is the perfect excuse for me to play with things that glitter and sparkle. I never have a set plan or specific theme. My decor consists of me and the things that I love spread throughout the house. 

 

A mix of nature and shiny man-made things adds a little rustic elegance in the corner of my great room. Throw in a dozen or so Santa’s, a table top tree in pink, a snow man here and there  and then top it all off with sparkles and it’s perfect, eclectic yes, but still perfect. 

 

My shopping is almost done or at least it should be. I keep adding to the list as I see things that would be perfect for so and so. That girl who loves to shop keeps buying even after her budget and the budget master says stop! 

 

Okay the little gnome boy holding up a shroom is actually a vintage decoration from my childhood- love him.  I couldn’t resist popping it into the picture-too cute!  The beautiful journal and fabulous bags are from TJ Maxx, so they were a bargain, at least that’s what I told the budget master. The Llama is a little stuffed toy to go along with the book Llama, Llama in Pajamas- love that. One of my favorite gifts to give is a children’s book with the coordinating character; it makes reading to the little ones a lot more fun. 

So that’s a little about me and a highlight of my weekend. Now it’s your turn to share….. 

xo-jj 

A whisper of snow

No sound,

Not a rumble, nor a roar,

No echo

Just a whisper

So soft, so simple

Just perfect!

I’m sipping my morning coffee in a cozy chair beneath the leafy greens. I love the way the morning light softly slips through the leaves, I feel hidden and protected. The wind outside is blowing and the air is an uncomfortable 30 degrees but my world inside is safe and warm.

A few weeks ago I talked about my book “A Sea of Whispers” and promised to tell you more very soon. Well, I haven’t forgotten but I’m waiting until after the Holidays. It’s a secret that will be presented to Mr. Java and a few other family members over Christmas, so you see I can’t do a full reveal just yet. Can you believe I kept a secret? Me neither!

A snow storm is forecasted for today and I’m not so sure I’m ready but I guess it doesn’t much matter if I’m ready or not. It will come ready or not and you can bet that I will be tucked away someplace warm and snuggly. Perhaps I’ll sit in front of the fireplace, while a toasty flame warms my toes, surrounded by windows and watch the world around me turn a crisp, clean shade of white. Perhaps the snow will not come at all and I will venture out to the store or meet my sister for lunch. Yeah that sounds about right. It’s her birthday and she lives almost 2 hours away. Hmmmm, a birthday lunch sounds like the perfect excuse for a road trip

Better grab my snow boots and where did I put that car scraper?

xo-jj

 

Holiday Whimsy

 

 

My Vintage Santa loves the new snow

I’ve been away for a few days. No I wasn’t traveling, shopping or having some fun. A little flu bug decided to visit me but I think he’s moving out and not any too soon. This next week is loaded, I’m working extra hours, have several holiday parties, a polital rally for a friend running for State Rep and I haven’t wrapped a thing. I’m sure most of you are in the same boat.

I love the Holidays and so want to take a little time to enjoy everything it has to offer.  I’ts with that spirit that I share a couple of my favorite Holiday window dispays with you. 

Saks Fifth Avenue- so whimsical and fun!

Bergdorf Goodman- I love this winter fantasy!

 

Through my office window-It may not scream Christmas but it’s festive and fun.

Enjoy your day.

xo-jj

His secret plan made my day

Here we go into the last few days of holiday shopping. This is when you can smell fear and see terror in the eyes of desperate shoppers. I always feel particularly sorry for the men walking around with that deer in headlights look in hopes that the perfect gift will magically appear. It’s the act of procrastination that gets them into this spot year after year but their pitiful look gets me every time. 

Last week I was so taken by a young man who came into the store looking for a reindeer plate to add to his girlfriend’s collection. He was so cheerful and excited about the holiday. When I asked if he had his shopping about done his face lit up and he told me about his Christmas Day plan.

 ”Well you see”, he said with so much excitement,  ”my girlfriend and I have this advent calender and every morning we take out the ornament for that day and place it on the tree. He could hardly contain himself as he told me the rest. “You see, on Christmas morning when she opens the little door to the 25th there won’t be an ornament but something better. On Christmas Eve after she goes to sleep I will sneak down to the tree and replace the ornament behind the 25th with a diamond ring and a little note asking her to marry me.”

  He smiled, purchased the plate and quickly darted out the door. His story made my day. I could tell he was so proud of himself for coming up with that special moment and I was so touched that he had shared it with me. I can only imagine what a wonderful Christmas morning they’ll have- so special. I’m sure I will be thinking about them come Christmas morning. I’m a sucker for romance.

Well, I’m off to work and then girls night were we will have dinner and exchange gifts for the season. Cheers to monday (as I raise my coffee cup) and the perfect start to a very busy week!

xo-jj

Holiday eye candy

This is going to be short and sweet. I just wanted to share a little eye candy of the holiday persuasion with you.

 Enjoy…

 

Now this is so fun and festive with a rustic twist- love it! Found this image at Earthfirst.com

How simple but chic in a classy farm-house style. Found this at the inspiredroom.net

Okay now this is so me and something I would totally do on my table. Image from goodhousekeeping.com

Talk about chic and unique- love, love this. It doesn’t match my home or any of my decor but it sure is dreamy to look at. This and many other cool chic images are from apartmenttherapy.com

Just wanted to share a little holiday bling of the unusual kind.

take care-jj

Blissful Thursday

As I tip-toe across meadows and meander in moments of time I’m often amazed at what we take for granted, never  bothering to look at the things we should be thankful for.  Things like a loving family, caring friends, good health and a roof over our heads.

Over the past few months of tough times for so many I’ve heard mostly negative feedback, whining and so many why me’s. A large percentage of this has come from individuals that have so much to be thankful for and very little to cry about.

With all of the negative press and unhappy people it’s hard to focus on what truly matters most. After all that said I would like to proclaim this day, a day to be grateful, positive and hopefully contagious. My mission today is to spread positive energy with a smile, kind gesture or positive thought.  I will refuse any vibes of  the negative persuasion, only blissful energy will be allowed to enter my space. 

How about you? I dare you to join me in a blissful Thursday…

xo-jj

My best holiday wishes to you…

 

 

The little princess enjoys a quiet moment with her baby doll, during a holiday party.

 It’s almost Christmas, my favorite time of year, where did the time go. Every year I say it and each time I say it, ( where did the time go) it rings more true than ever. Christmas day will be here and gone before we know it and there are still so many things I want to do, holiday baking, a visit to the live nativity scene, shop for a needy family, wrap the gifts while listening to Christmas music, I could go on and on. There is still a lot to do and my week is scheduled to the brim.  

Working retail during the busiest time of year is hard and requires a lot of energy and planning ahead- something I’m not always good at. Although I will be working all day everyday this week while spending an hour and a half a day on the road, I am looking forward to the sparkly energy that only the holiday can bring. This means that I may not have another opportunity to post before the big day.  

With all that said I want to be sure to wish all of you the warmest, sparkliest holiday, full of all the things you’ve hoped for. I hope you take the time to savour every single moment. Be patient, be kind and by all means enjoy it! I’m sending my love and warmest wishes to all of you.

You mean so much to me. Merry Christmas…….

Believe in magic, wish for all things possible, dream of beautiful things to come and celebrate it all!

Love,  love-jj 

A sea of Holiday festivities and me feeling a bit in-between

I hope you shared a beautiful holiday with the ones you love. I’m still here, navigating my way through a sea of holiday festivities, putting in over time at the store and feeling a bit tired. I can’t believe a new year is just around the corner. This time of year is a bit melancholy for me but also a little magical. It’s that in-between state-the party is over but a new adventure is about to begin. I’m never quite sure how I feel about it.  I don’t usaully do the big noisy hoopla for NewYears. I prefer to usher in the day in a little quieter more intimate setting with time to think and hope for a special year. We have a long winter ahead and although I despise the weather, I do welcome the quiet solitude that allows me to go deep with thoughts which sometimes end up as words on paper. I’m never quite sure how I feel about the passing of another year and the anticipation of the new. Maybe it’s because I’ve had far too many cookies and my brain is still coming down from a sugar high or perhaps it’s the shear exhaustion of the holiday hype which ends in a mess of wrapping paper and dirty dishes. No matter the reason or all the details, 2010 is on its way and I’m hoping for something spectacular.

What are your thoughts about the New Year and how will you celebrate? Tell me about your holiday and share your hopes and ideas for a New Year. 

xo-jj

New Year, new hope and a funny story

The last few days I have been busy with life but also busy in my thoughts.  I think it’s because we’re standing on the cusp of a New Year, looking back on a year where so much change took place. The following scenario nicely sums up just how this crazy year has been.

I left the house with my phone in my ear and a handful of supplies for the day. As I drove down MLK, I was thinking about all of the things that needed to get done but wouldn’t stand a chance since I was putting in a full day of work and would most likely return home with tired feet and an “I don’t feel like it” attitude.  Just as I was becoming annoyed at the longest stop light in the world, I noticed something that made me laugh and sit a bit after the light had turned green and a few rushed drivers singled me with their horns. The sight to my left was something out of a Jim Carrey movie and it set the tone for the rest of my day. 

Try to imagine for a moment rush hour traffic at a busy corner on a cold December day.  Everyone is in a hurry and not very happy about the idea of venturing out on the slippery roads to put in a full day of work.  A well-built man in a black jogging suit, fluffy white hat,  and white woolen mittens is on the corner with his pit bull. He is performing some sort of routine that kind of resembles an olympic ribbon dance. He has a long white cloth that he’s waving around as he leaps down the sidewalk. When he leaped the dog followed and when he kneeled and pointed to the sky the dog sat and looked around. This was very entertaining but it wasn’t the first time I had seen his little performance. What made this time over the top was the little man in a ”We buy Gold” sandwich sign dancing around the ribbon dancer and his dog. He was clicking his fingers and twirling around to a silent beat.  Their routine looked like it had been corrigraphed for a Jim Carrey movie, Jim Carrey of course would be playing the part of the ribbon dancer.  It all seemed very purposeful, neither man acknowledged the other, they were moving together but very much in their own world or bubble. It was beautiful in a strange and really funny way.  This was the perfect opportunity for a video camera and no time restraints.  I had neither.  What a funny scene to jump-start my day but more importantly I realized how people are making the most of whatever hand they’ve been dealt and enjoying it. The unemployment rate in Michigan is about 15% and I’m quite certain the man in the sandwich sign was just happy to have a job. The fact that he had a little fun while doing it made me smile. The ribbon dancer obviously has some sort of mental illness but he seemed to be enjoying life while his dog enjoyed a little creative exercise. Acceptance, the right attitude and working together, it was beautiful.

This scene changed my attitude a bit and made me take a second look at this past year. I think the way the year played out and whether it was good or bad is largely perception. My perception or attitude for that day started out with a grumble but it was quickly changed to a giggle and smile after viewing the corner dance routine. A few moments can change your day or more importantly your mind! Think about this as you ring in the new year.

Imagine for a moment if we all ushered in 2010 with a “make the most of whatever you’ve got” attitude and a smile. It might change the course of a year or at least your perception of it. Is a good life, simply, in the mind of the beholder? Perhaps….

My wish is that each and every one of you, ushers in the New Year with love and tiny bubbles of  hope. Thank you so much for making my year brighter and for making me believe. I feel as though I have gotten to know the most beautiful part of you, the inside. (bubble image snatched from “I love bacteria.com)

Happy New Year…..

Love, love and so much hope to you – jj

A simple Life without the Smoke and Mirrors

It’s a new year filled with hope and resolutions. After weathering the storm of 2009 it seems most of us are very optimistic about 2010. I do believe that this year will be infinitely better than the last but this belief is clouded by a tiny worry. Every cloud comes with a silver lining, so to speak and I think the silver lining of 2009 was perhaps a life lesson.  I believe the previous years led many of us down a path that was headed for the land of excess, a world of material bliss, and an era of me, me, me and yes, please more for me. I think we forgot what was really important and how we can enjoy life in a simple way.  Did we miss the point of our downward spiral and will we hop back on that lavish bus headed for tinsel town? I hope not!

I think this moment is an opportunity to take a look at a simpler life with a little less of the excess and a little more quality time with the things or people who matter most. We could use this fall from grace as a push to go a little greener and become aware of the natural spaces laying just outside our back door. Perhaps we should do something different, perhaps we already are paying attention and making the appropriate changes. I’m just concerned that what has been said is a lot of smoke and mirrors or that we will forget what we’ve learned all too soon. I want to remember and make the appropriate changes, even though I’m not too sure what all of those changes are ro should be, as of yet. 

I hope the world will slow its pace just a bit, take the time to breathe a little deeper, spend a little less and save for any future stumbles. Perhaps we could learn not only to recycle but to repurpose the unwanted things that we own. I think the repurpose thing may be a good theme for girls night. Everyone could bring an unwanted item that they no longer use and together as a group we could come up with a new, more purposeful use for it. I know it sounds a little silly but that’s what girls night is all about, silly fun with no rhyme or reason just a little companionship and a lot of laughs. 

Notice how I didn’t list any definite resolutions for the new year, just thoughts and ideas (rambles). My resolutions never last anyway- they’re just a little diversion that end up as a lot of smoke and mirrors. I decided to skip the illusion this year and just ramble out my thoughts to you.

I hope this New Year brings about all the changes you need and fills your life with simple pleasures.

Happy New Year!

love, love-jj

Snowy days, HGTV, Project Runway, exotic jewelry and me

Most of you know that I love all kinds of fashion. Whether its interior design( fashions for the home) or personal fashion (that little black dress) I love it so much-maybe a little too much. I’m an avid watcher of HGTV (when I can steal the remote from the big guy) and love, love Project Runway.  A few months ago I met the host of Project Runway, Tim Gunn, during one of his mall appearances. It was fun and unexpected. I would probably never wear anything the show’s designers created but its been fun to see the amazing ideas they’ve come up with.

I hate to admit it but during this time of year the television becomes very important to me. I love the escape that the Travel Channel allows and the opportunity to house shop on House Hunters without leaving my chair. I also love to watch the creative ideas and the extreme challenges that take place during Project Runway. The seventh season starts on January 14th, just 8 days away. This year it will be broadcast on the  Lifetime  channel and you can find out more about this seasons designers and judges right here. 

Well Thats it- I thought I’d let you know what was on my mind today and what I’m putting together for today’s article in my fashion column. In Monday’s article  I had to mention the inspiring jewelry I found at World Market, half price of course. It looks like it came from Marrakesh and makes me feel exotic when I where it. I love things that inspire a feeling of travel or look like it was pulled from a private collection of travel treasures. I may be all grown up (over 40) but I still like to pretend. 

Have a wonderful Wednesday…

xo-jj

Snow Day

As I sit here chatting with you I’m reminded of my a day in the ’70s when the snow came with a vengeance. The drifts were so high we couldn’t see out our living room window. The roads were impassable, even the highway we lived had become a sledding hill. I was a child so this predicament was no inconvenience to me, it just ment no school for a week.  Wahoo!!!

We’ll we are definitely not that point today but the 5 or six inches across the lawn is both beautiful and very inconvenient. The trees looks gorgeous all dressed in white and the ground is so pristine under a thick blanket of fluff. The skies are heavy and pasty and the chill has sent a couple wild cats into my garage for shelter. They sneak through the doggie door and make themselves comfortable. My dogs are baffled at the audacity of these creatures who lay in their doggie beds and snarl at every passer-by.

It might be a couple more months before we see the sun again and I hope I can last that long. Hey, Deb maybe you should get my room ready, just in case I decide to make an emergency trip to the desert. Hee he…

There is plenty to do inside and when I feel a little cabin fever setting in I can just fire up the wii and go for a run. I have never been a fan of winter but I don’t remember it bothering me nearly as much when I was young. 

I had to share this picture of the princess in her “Snow White” jelly pumps,( she has the entire set of Disney princess shoes) flipping through a book. Her hair had been in tiny pony tails but after she removed the ribbons they remained as little stubs upon her head-too cute!

Enjoy your day no matter the weather- if you’re some place warm and sunny please soak up some warmth for me. I’m headed off to work.  We have transformed the store to look like springtime-love it!

 

xo-jj

Stand-by for a moment while I lose my Zen

This pic was borrowed from myopera.com

Warning this may be hazardous to your zen!

Ready, set…..rant!  I hope you’re up for this because I really need a moment to go on and on about a few things that have been really messing up my mojo.

Okay let me start out by saying, I love the age of technology and all  the instant gratification it brings. I take full advantage of the convenience it offers but… yes, there is a but in there. I miss the human contact and sometimes need to ask questions or know that what has just transacted did the job or solved the problem.

It all started with all that automated crap which made me wonder- who is running the show? Then everything went digital and  leapt into cyber space- the rest is history. I admit that I love the ability to work from home and never have to venture out my door to shop, pay bills, google the answer to almost anything or be entertained for hours but… there’s my but again. There are times when I need a human voice so I can ask questions,  or a live person to just plain reassure me that everything is okay.

Just today I tried to pay my son’s college tuition bill and it was damn near impossible. They don’t except a debit card, they no longer take any credit cards except MasterCard and if you do use a MasterCard,  a 5% processing charge will be added to the bill. The payment must be done on-line- there’s not a live person to process payments via the telephone.

I could drive over two hours one way to pay the bill in person with a personal check (they don’t take cash) but there is a window of five days to do it in before incurring a penalty which doesn’t exactly fit into my schedule. This institution prefers to take their payments electronically from  financial institutions as in a Citibank student loan. Well, we did that and now that we’re many of thousands of dollars in debt we’re done with student loans, done, finished, no more.  How badly do they want my money,anyway? Obviously not bad enough to hire someone to process my payment or to inconvenience their schedule just a little.

But wait, I have a beef on a totally different subject as well- here goes…  Just a few hours ago I returned from a trip to Target, which by the way was one of my favorite stores until something happened to the shopping paradise where quality met with moderately low prices on almost everything you could ever need. 

When I entered the store I was greeted by a plethora of dollar store items from no doubt China, then, as I ventured to the women’s department that used to offer halfway cute apparel, I was stopped dead in my tracks by drab colors with no style what-so-ever and what looked to be very low quality. As I manuevered my cart through messy displays and on to the back of the store, I noticed that it was bombarded with  bulk items and off brands. Now I’m all for saving a buck but there’s a time and place for that kind of stock. Target, home of the shabby chic decor is now filled a lot of shabby that’s not so chic.

I do occasionally shop the dollar stores and pay a visit to the Big Lots chain but that doesn’t mean I want this kind of merchandise all the time, everywhere.

I’m willing to pay a little more for the items that call for quality. I want the choice to buy low, medium or high cost goods. I live in Michigan and yes I’ve been hit by the recession but that doesn’t mean I can’t or won’t pay a little more to get something a little nicer or a little more reliable from time to time.  

I’m feeling as though technology just keeps getting more and more expensive but our goods are  getting really cheap and disposable.  While many of our goods are lacking quality, the service industry is in dire need of an overhaul. I think our world is getting a little too big and a lot too impersonal. 

I want conveinence of speed with all the bells and whistles technology allows but why can’t it be delivered in a kinder,  gentler manor with a personal touch. I still need a little quality from time to time in a clean well merchandised store.

Perhaps I’m asking too much and maybe my expectations are a little over the moon but I don’t really think so. Am I the only one who feels lost in a sea of automated machinery and cyber drones? Does anyone else long for a little quality while perusing the isles of their favorite store?

Tell me what you think. Do you feel it… or am I just a little too hypersensitive?

Thanks for listening to my rants. Breathe deep and just chill…..

 I feel better after letting it fly, on-ward and up-ward we go.  Sorry but I warned you

xo-jj

Dream House

This is the kind of view I think of when someone says “Dream House” but HGTV has something a little different in mind. The 2010 Dream House was built in New Mexico and it looks spectacular.  The house is gorgeous and complete with a quest house they’re calling the Casita. It isn’t next to the ocean but it is beautifully placed in a warm climate. That’s good enough for me-I’m in.

To find out more or register for a chance to win visit HGTV Dream Home. Before you go clicking away to dream land there is a catch. If you win I get to visit. That seems only fair since I gave you the link, right? Well maybe you already knew about it but still don’t forget me. If the house becomes mine the party’s on me!

xo-jj

It’s time to refeather the nest

Shhhhh, don’t tell the big guy I’m having a spring fling! Don’t worry it’s not what you think.

A January frost is nipping at my toes which makes me a bit restless and a little, okay a lot, cranky. So I’m indulging myself in a little creative therapy.  I’m creating a few colorful niches, designing some interesting wall art, reorganizing, redecorating, fluffing, refeathering and well you get the picture.  ….and I love it!!!

The big guy is out-of-town and who knows what he’ll think of my creative spurt. It’s a little unusual and a bit on the  girlie side. Mr. Java is little more main stream and a lot more conservative than I. There are times when I wish I were a little more inside the box but no matter how hard I try everything I do comes out a little quirky.

The shadow box in the first pic had a orginal plan of being  filled with a cute little nest of eggs in front of a traditional bird print. But instead I added a Juicy Couture ad from an old vogue magazine and a little sea tree I found on the beach during last years trip to Captiva Island. Then I added three turquoise eggs, which according to Pantone is the color of the season, a few soft feathers and some vintage jewelry pieces. 

 

The fashion picture was created from poster ads for Nordstroms department store and a couple scrapbooking flowers that I layered together and added vintage pearls to. The zen pic was created  for my bathroom to add a feeling of spa luxury. It’s a computer generated print thrown on a canvas with a little paint and homemade flowers.  A crisp white cabinet with glass panels went into the bathroom as well and I added a new throw to my bed.

The shadow box piece is my favorite and I have a yellow Canary just like the one in the print as for the hair- I wish. It’s been fun but now that the big guy is on his way home I’m getting a little nervous about his reaction, like it, love it, hate it, or tolerate it. Do you care to venture a guess at which way it will go?

Have a lovely weekend filled with a lot of inspiration and a little color….

xo-jj

Orchid dreams and a girl I once knew

Did I tell you how much I love creamy white flowers- so elegant . It’s orchid time of year again and I can’t get enough of this gorgeous flower. I always look forward to January for this reason. These lovely blooms made the perfect addition to my silver vases from Pottery Barn. They’re so exotic, they inspire dreams of adventurous travel and spawn memories of a girl I once knew.

When I was about five years old I was caught sneaking into the neighbors barn. I went there to look through some old trunks tucked into the loft. I couldn’t control my curiosity. I thirsted for the unknown, for adventure and treasures to behold. I imagined a trunk filled with old hats worn by ladies of importance and fur coats so soft to the touch. There would no doubt be a box of pictures from years ago when times was hard and each face reflected the seriousness that life entailed. The best part would have been a jewelry box filled with sparkling brooches the size of my fist and shiny earrings that dangled just so. 

I’m still that little girl today, but a lot wiser and with a little more self-control. Sometimes I yearn to be the little girl who didn’t care about the dirty dishes, didn’t worry about what might happen tomorrow and never feared the unknown. She lived every day with high hopes and open eyes, she knew that there was something much bigger and better meant for her. This girl didn’t worry about the small stuff and never questioned how she would get to the next destination. She didn’t need much, just the sky, the birds, her dreams, and a backpack. The world was bound to open up, sometime soon and swallow her whole.

Perhaps she had read Alice in Wonderland one too many times or maybe she had a little too much belief in the golden ticket from Charlie and the Chocolate factory. Her expectations were very much like both stories: a fall down the rabbit hole which opened up a new and very strange world full of adventure and unusual happenings but there was always hope, because she was special and held the golden ticket which meant that all her dreams were bound to come true.

Sometimes I struggle to find that little girl who dreamt of beautiful things and never worried, the silly heart who knew so little. I think she’s hiding from a grown-up world but then sometimes when the night sky is full of stars or in the daytime when the sky is just the perfect shade of blue, she’s there, just as free as ever.

I’m not sure what she would say if she could see me now.  Would she believe that her dreams came true? She’s had a good life with many adventures. Besides, I’m not so sure she would have survived a plunge down the rabbit hole or the impact of smashing through the Chocolate factory’s ceiling in a glass elevator. She’s much too fragile for that.

She’s still curious and wonders all the time but it’s okay because there’s still time and many adventures ahead…

xo-jj