Katie's Blog

like new

2011-07-14T06:25:00.001-07:00

My bulletin board at work was looking a little sad... so I added some fabric and cardstock and it's much happier!

if wishes were fishes

2011-04-07T19:33:00.000-07:00

these would be mine

Anthropologie Swim

2011-04-06T17:51:00.000-07:00

Summer is sneaking up on me...

J. Crew shoe love

2011-02-26T11:57:00.000-08:00

Maybe the J.Crew shoe gods will have favor upon me.... haha

Fleur du jour ballet flats

Sperry Top-Sider® Authentic Original 2-eye metallic boat shoes

Bowdelaire ballet flats

Happy New Year

2010-12-31T14:15:00.000-08:00

Here's to 2011!

O Christmas Tree

2010-12-05T12:06:00.001-08:00

I love these wood Christmas trees from Wool and Wool Stool

via seesaw.

Gift Wrap

2010-11-27T11:10:00.001-08:00

In between writing papers, studying for exams, reading and creating presentations, this is what I think about....

I cannot wait until this semester is over so I can get started on wrapping gifts

(that I have yet to buy)

via [stylemepretty]

J.Crew, you kill me...

2010-10-19T09:29:00.000-07:00

I am trying to do everything in my power to keep my mind off this dreaded oral surgery. J.Crew seems to be doing the job. I love it all. Enjoy...

Fall Wishes

2010-10-03T08:58:00.001-07:00

by Ksterbenz on Polyvore.com

Bittersweet

2010-08-11T19:25:00.000-07:00

A few years ago, my friend Lindsay introduced me to the first book I've ever read in one sitting: Cold Tangerines. I think I've probably read this book a good five times. Shauna Niequist is a brilliant writer--raw and encouraging. She recently came out with another book- Bittersweet: thoughts on change, grace, and learning the hard way. I practically grabbed it out of the UPS man's hands when he came to the door. I can't put it down. My bible study is going through this book, discussing a few chapters at a time. I feel like I'm cheating, but I can't help myself. I have to finish the whole thing.

A few things I'm learning/loving so far:

"Change is not a function of life's cruelty but instead a function of God's graciousness"
"Grace is when you finally stop keeping score and when you realize that God never was, that his game is a different one entirely."

thankful: understatement of the year

2010-08-05T19:21:00.001-07:00

I was clinging tightly to this promise last year:

"Yet this I call to mind and therefore I have hope: Because of the LORD's great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness. I say to myself, 'The LORD is my portion; therefore I will wait for him.' The LORD is good to those whose hope is in him, to the one who seeks him; it is good to wait quietly for the salvation of the LORD." Lamentations 3:21-26

I have a hard time writing about this. I think it's because there is SO much to be said and I feel like my words just don't do justice…

Around this time last year, the world revolved around me as I anticipated the beginning of graduate school. Little did I know, graduate school would be the last thing on my mind. A year ago today, my mom's hospital journey began. It was also the day that I would start to trust in the Lord more than I ever had. My family and friends were shown miracles (plural) that would lead to a deeper faith and understanding in God than I ever knew possible.

I remember one early morning, when the intensivist’s first words encumbered some muttering of ‘Terri Schiavo’ and ‘vegetable.’ I don't even know what he said for sure. Those were the two words that stuck out. I stood up before he had finished. "You can't say that," I said. "It's only been a couple of hours! You can't say that!" I walked out of the tiny little room. My dad followed me. He hugged me tightly and said, “Katie, our God is a BIG God. That man is just a man. He is knowledgeable, but our faith is in the Lord.” I’ll never forget those words. I wonder sometimes how my mom impacted that intensivist. I would like to think that when he sits down with a distraught family, he’s not so quick to name-drop ‘Terri Schiavo’- because he too, witnessed miracles.

Not only was I shown the amazing power of Christ, but I was reminded of the intense love of our friends and family. I always knew my mom was loved, but WOW. Friends and family stepped in and cared for her/us in extraordinary ways… sitting with us at the hospital, bringing meals, researching doctors, painting my mom’s room at our house because they knew she was planning to do it that summer, mowing my grandma’s lawn because my dad typically did, checking on our dogs, cleaning my parents house, taking care of my mom’s classroom, helping Megan move into the dorms…. a list that could go on forever. What a great community my parents have.

My mom’s journey has revealed my desperate need for the Lord. It also reminded me that God intends for us to do life together. We can’t do it on our own.

The start of graduate school will be much different this year…

Wedding

2010-08-02T18:05:00.001-07:00

My cute sister-in-law is getting married in 2 months and it's been super fun looking at wedding ideas. Some inspiration...

[Jill Thomas photography]

[Twigs and Honey via Pretty Little Things]

[via Rifle Paper Co.]

[via Grey Likes Weddings]

What's in a Name?

2010-07-29T21:09:00.000-07:00

Andrew is student teaching this semester. His freshman class is reading 'The House on Mango Street' (one of my favorite books). There is a chapter where the narrator talks about her name--what it means, what she likes about it, what she doesn't. The assignment for the class was to create a short essay about their name. This was the example Andrew gave them:

I don’t know what my last name means in any language. Sometimes I think it has a cool meaning, like “Maker of fine German automobiles,” but I’m pretty sure it doesn’t mean that. In fact, I wouldn’t be surprised if it doesn’t mean anything at all.

My last name, which is ‘Sterbenz’, fits nicely with the first two, Andrew and Stephen- my friends like to have some fun putting all three of my initials together. Sometimes they say something like “Your parents really must have known what kind of child they were gonna have, eh?” I usually just play along and sometimes tell old ladies that my initials are A.S.S.

It’s fun telling people how to spell my last name over the phone. I say “ ‘S’ as in scorpion, ‘T’ as in tarantula, ‘E’ as in endoscopy, ‘R’ as in reptilian, and ‘Benz’ like Mercedes.” Hopefully they are laughing at this point and they decide to give me the latest phone or upgrade me to 100 megabytes of turbo speed Internet service for free. This usually doesn’t happen, but it’s better if they like you.

My wife doesn’t like our last name. She says it’s too difficult to explain to people. I’ve tried to tell her how much fun she can have with it, but she just wants to switch back to Bryant. She used to say “Katie Bryant. You know, like Kobe.” Who wants to share a name with that guy? If I had been named Andrew Bryant and her maiden name was Sterbenz, I would have taken her last name because Andrew Sterbenz is a much better name.

House Inspiration

2010-07-29T17:00:00.000-07:00

Inspiration board pieces...

[via InsidetheLoop]

[via Full House]

[via decor8]

[source unknown. Let me know if you know!]

Anniversary

2010-07-28T19:15:00.001-07:00

Happy 3 year anniversary to my best friend!

Ecote Canvas Backpack

2010-07-27T18:49:00.000-07:00

New backpack for school? I think so!

Attic Love

2010-06-18T15:43:00.000-07:00

I would LOVE to read for my voice/swallowing class if I could do it in this attic!

Anthropologie Rugs

2010-06-13T15:17:00.000-07:00

I am loving these Anthropologie rugs.

Now if only they could be budget friendly ;)

Happiness

2010-05-29T14:45:00.001-07:00

hello!

2010-05-06T21:40:00.001-07:00

Graduate school has officially taken over my life (hence the lack of posts). This was a good reminder for me....

“It’s rebellious, in a way, to choose joy, to choose to dance, to choose to love your life. It’s much easier and much more common to be miserable. But I choose to do what I can do to create hope, to celebrate life, and the act of celebrating connects me back to that life I love. We could just live our normal, day-to-day lives, saving all the good living up for someday, but I think today, just plain today, is worth it. I think it’s our job, each of us, to live each day like it’s a special occasion, because we’ve been given a gift. We get to live in this beautiful world. When I live purposefully and well, when I dance instead of sitting it out, when I let myself laugh hard, when I wear my favorite shoes on a regular Tuesday, that regular Tuesday is much better.”
-Shauna Niequist; Cold Tangerines

Rifle: Valentines

2010-01-23T07:11:00.000-08:00

I'm loving the new Valentine's Day cards from Rifle Paper Co.

Exposed Brick

2010-01-04T13:52:00.000-08:00

I've really been loving the look of exposed brick...

[image found via madebygirl]

[image found via Canadian House and Home]

[image found via Jo Carmichael]

[unknown source... let me know if you know where to find it]

Quirky Candles

2009-12-26T14:15:00.000-08:00

I scored at Anthropologie today. I've had my eye on these quirky candles for awhile, waiting for them to go on sale. They were $9.95 each and I got an extra 30% off! Yay!

Merry Christmas

2009-12-18T08:21:00.001-08:00

take 1

take 2

take 3

take 4

Merry Christmas!

Love: Andrew, Katie and Olive

Moose Head- No animals harmed

2009-12-13T10:42:00.000-08:00

I don't even know how to explain how badly I want this white lacquer moose head. The Keep Calm Carry On Poster had a short-lived stint in our office (long story, I'll post about that later), and now my Ikea frame hangs empty. I think a white moose head is just the thing our office is missing :) Now if I could only stumble across a spare $200!

Happy Thanksgiving

2009-11-25T12:54:00.001-08:00

Happy Thanksgiving! Hope you all have a wonderful time with your family and friends.

[image via design*sponge]

Keep Calm and Carry On

2009-11-22T12:04:00.000-08:00

I have been wanting this poster for a really long time, and finally ordered one for the office. I can't wait for it to arrive!!

Hunter Wellies

2009-11-15T06:26:00.000-08:00

It rained yesterday (by rained, I mean it sprinkled lightly), and it got me justifying my need for a pair of Hunter Wellies!! I would look ridiculous wearing rain boots in Arizona, but they are SO cool! Take a look...

[Images found via the newlywed diaries and pinkwallpaper]

Anthropologie Window Displays

2009-11-08T17:41:00.000-08:00

I met some friends to study this morning and my draw dropped open in jealousy as one of my friends told me she used to do the window designs at an Anthropologie in Washington D.C. I have always wanted that job! If someone offered it to me, I would drop out of grad. school right now. Well, maybe not... but it sure would be tempting! To say that I'm in love with window displays at Anthropologie would be a severe understatement. Just look at them!

Bedroom and Kitchen

2009-10-29T22:14:00.000-07:00

Doilies have never looked so cool. I like this bedroom a lot.

[via The Newlywed Diaries]

This kitchen is great. I love the chunky legs of the island, and the hardwood floors.

[I can't remember where I found this picture. If anyone knows, let me know!]

Sticky...

2009-10-28T07:21:00.001-07:00

Instead of studying for my neuro test, I was picking blue plumbagos off Olive. She was trying to get the tennis ball, and came out with a billion sticky flowers.

[She looks so ashamed]

Great Deal at Boston Market

2009-10-26T17:53:00.000-07:00

Andrew and I just ate out for $2.17!! Boston Market is offering a $1.00 Real Chicken Meal. It's a great deal! Offer expires 11/1/09. Click here for your coupon

[thanks Kiki for the tip]

Bedroom

2009-10-21T16:00:00.000-07:00

This bedroom is from designer Michael Penney's home. I love the striped walls and all the little details.

[found via House of Turquoise]

Happy Anniversary!

2009-10-20T06:20:00.000-07:00

Today is my parent's 25th wedding anniversary!

Love you, mom and dad!

[happy anniversary plate found via design*sponge]

[photograph by Session Nine Photography]

Meltdowns and Musings

2009-10-18T11:31:00.000-07:00

[This picture is unrelated to my post. I just love it. Thanks, Lena]

I had a little meltdown last night. It's weird how silly little things trigger huge meltdowns. I was going to bed, and was thinking about how I needed to go to the grocery store in the morning. I started crying. Why was I crying about the grocery store?! But of course it wasn't at all about the grocery store. It was that I felt overwhelmed about life. I feel overwhelmed that I don't have time for necessary things such as the grocery store. I felt overwhelmed that even going to the grocery store means that I will buy unhealthy food like pizza pockets because that's all the time I have to make dinner for Andrew and I. Then I felt overwhelmed that I'm not being a good wife, a good friend, a good daughter.... talk about a meltdown!

Graduate school is so hard that it makes me question whether or not this is the right path for me. I compare myself to others--others who have made their passion into a career, and have time to do things they enjoy. It's not my reality. I think my passion for speech pathology has just been overshadowed by the tremendous amount of effort required to reach that goal. Anything that's worth it, is worth working hard for though, right?

After my mind stopped racing, I fell asleep. I woke up this morning with a little more peace. Truth: My Savior has overcome the world. He has healed my mom, and offered me eternal life. Why do I let worry, fear, and exhaustion consume me? God promises to give rest to the weary (Mat 11:28). I am so thankful. SO thankful. I want my life to reflect that thankfulness. I was talking with some fellow grad. students about how much we have whined and complained this semester. When I stop and reflect, I cannot believe that those are the words that come out of my mouth the majority of the time. With the miracles I have seen in my mom the past few months, I should not be able to contain my joy and thankfulness. I should be pointing to Christ with my words.

I’m still feeling a little overwhelmed, but am confident. On the way to the grocery store, I had this song on repeat:

Send me a sign

A hint, O whisper

Fill me with life

'Cause I am listening

Come break the quiet

Breathe your awakening

Bring me the light

'Cause I am fading

Surround me with the rush of angels' wings

Shine Your light so I can see You

Pull me up, I need to be near You

Hold me, I need to feel loved

Can You overcome this heart that's overcome?

You sent a sign

The hint, O whisper

Human, divine

Everyone is listening

Death laid low

Quiet in the night is stirring

All around the rush of angels

O the wonder of the greatest love has come

Shine Your light so all can see it

Lifted up, 'cause the whole world needs it

Love has come, what joy to hear it

He has overcome, He has overcome

[David Crowder, SMS]

Today is a new day.

I will NOT get sick

2009-10-17T11:36:00.001-07:00

In the midst of flu season, these are saving my life right now...

"Leaf" a Thumb Print

2009-10-13T21:04:00.000-07:00

I thought our wedding turned out great, but there are so many little things I would change if I had the opportunity to do it over again. The Wedding Tree is such a great alternative to the traditional guest book. It's definitely something I would have hung up in our house.

[photographs by jonas peterson found via mustard & sage]

Hutch Love

2009-10-12T16:44:00.000-07:00

I subscribe to Holly's blog, Life in the Fun Lane. I love the refurnished pieces I come across, but this hutch especially caught my eye. I kinda can't stop thinking about it.

[via Life in the Fun Lane]

Waiting on Fall...

2009-10-11T10:15:00.000-07:00

As I write this post, I am wearing a t-shirt and shorts. It does not feel like the cool fall I am longing for. I would love to be blogging in this house....

[via Urban Grace Interiors]

Olive

2009-10-10T09:41:00.000-07:00

She's getting so big!! Olive is SO big that when she's bad, I forget she's just a puppy. Look at that face!

The Frames are Finally Filled!

2009-09-30T12:03:00.001-07:00

My mom gave me these frames 2 years ago for Christmas. I loved them but have just been lazy about finding things to fill them. I ended up using a postcard that my sister sent Andrew from Germany, and prints from IKEA. Simple enough. I found a place for them in our office.

My pallet daybed

2009-09-28T18:30:00.000-07:00

I'm impulsive. On Saturday, Andrew and I made the pallet bed I've had my eye on (visit Ashley Ann Photography for some real inspiration).

We got two pallets, put them together using bolts and hinges, and added 5 caster wheels to the base of the bed. I went to IKEA and bought a really inexpensive mattress. It needs a quilt and some throw pillows, but I'm pretty happy with the way it turned out!

Before...

It needs a cute quilt and some throw pillows, but I like the way it turned out

I think what I ended up making was a gigantic dog bed for Olive

**I have been meaning to blog about my mom, it's just hard to put it all into words.

I have no ideas for a title

2009-08-20T07:52:00.000-07:00

I adore this kitchen. On a very exciting note: my mom is now on the floor.... officially out of ICU!! She still has a long road ahead of her, but this is a step in the right direction! On another exciting, scary, overwhelming note: I started orientation for grad. school on Tuesday. Maybe that's just an overwhelming note.

[via design sponge]

Waiting on the Lord

2009-08-13T13:48:00.000-07:00

This is my sweet mom, who I love so so much. My family is sick of hospitals. A good friend sent this to me this morning, and it was definitely what I needed in that moment:

Lamentations 3:21-26

Thanks for your prayers. My mom has had a rough couple of weeks, but my hope is in Christ. Thank goodness for a solid foundation.

Prayer for my mom

2009-08-10T06:17:00.000-07:00

I've debated even blogging about this, just because there is so many details.... I'm just going to keep it short. My mom is in the ICU because when she went in for surgery and they put the breathing tube in, she aspirated. She's still in the ICU-- I found out this morning that on top of all the other problems, she has pneumonia. Her white blood cell count is pretty high still and her oxygen levels aren't very good. Please pray for her--for a quick recovery, for great nurses, for peace for my mom. I'd appreciate it very much.

Sophisticated Bunk Beds

2009-08-05T15:44:00.000-07:00

How cute are these bunk beds?! I think I love them so much because they are still fun and kid-friendly, but have a more sophisticated feel.

[via pink wallpaper]

Pallet Daybed

2009-07-31T12:36:00.000-07:00

I found this pallet daybed on Ashley Ann's blog, and it has been on my mind ever since. I really want to try to make my own version. We'll see if this project gets started before grad. school officially starts! You should definitely check out the other pictures of her nursery.... it is pretty much amazing. The white hard wood floors are to die for!

It's been a while...

2009-07-28T14:49:00.000-07:00

It's been a while since I last blogged. Life can't seem to slow down. It's funny that I have the least amount of time to blog when I have the most to blog about. Here are some highlights...

It was my birthday on the 1st....

It was Andrew's birthday on the 8th! (I forgot my camera)

We moved into a house! I'm kicking myself for not taking "before" pictures... but I will post more about the house later.

Olive had to go to the emergency vet and spend the night there, followed by a day at our regular vet. Let's just say she is one expensive puppy! This is the only picture I could find of her ridiculous looking leg. They had to shave it to put a catheter in.... oh Olive, it's so ugly! When we're in public, I try to cover it with a baby sock.

We went to Mund's Park last weekend with family. They have a petting zoo at Mormon Lake--it seems like no one ever works there. You just walk in... so weird! Andrew and my sister had the time of their lives with the baby goats. Excuse Andrew's dirty face... we went quadding to the lake.

And to end the long post... today is our 2nd anniversary! I love you, Andrew :)

Kate's surgery is today

2009-07-03T08:00:00.001-07:00

Would you pray for Kate this morning at 9:00 am (Arizona time)? She is scheduled for brain surgery to remove as much of the tumor as possible, and needs all the prayer she can get! I am praying for a miracle. Brian and Promise Wurzell made a prayer request video for the McRae's that you can see here.

Pray for Kate

2009-06-30T17:13:00.000-07:00

Sweet Kate McRae was diagnosed with a brain tumor yesterday. She is the daughter of a pastor at Cornerstone, and is only five-years-old. She is one of the cutest little girls I have ever laid eyes on, and needs prayer immensely. I know our God is a big God, but this kind of news is tough to wrestle with. You can follow Kate's story here

It's a girl!

2009-06-28T13:54:00.000-07:00

Andrew and I bought a puppy yesterday! She is a 10 week old golden doodle. We have been wanting a dog for two years, and since we are moving into a house with a yard, we feel that now is a great time for a new addition to our family! We won't be able to take her for a couple weeks until we get settled into the new house... which is a hard thing! I've been concocting ways to sneak her into our apartment, but it's just not a good idea. She is such a great dog--she is already potty trained, and can sit on command. She is really mellow and has a sweet demeanor. Her name is Olive, and I love her already!

Recycled Peacock Print

2009-06-27T07:28:00.001-07:00

[via artandphilanthropy]

Father's Day

2009-06-21T08:46:00.000-07:00

Happy Father's Day, Dad!

My dad is amazing... He is the best dad ever. I am thankful for him and love him very much.

"Guad" Lives in the White House

2009-06-18T17:03:00.001-07:00

Yesterday, while I was working with one of my kindergartners, O, I showed her a picture of the White House and asked her to tell me what she saw. Our conversation went as follows:

Me: What is this?

O: A house

Me: That's the White House. Do you know who lives there?

O: The President... and "guad"

Me: Guards? (O can't say her r's)

O: No....guad!

Me: Guards?

O: No... guad!! You know, the one who made us?!

Me: Oh! The President and God live in the White House?

O: Well... I guess Guad doesn't live there, He lives in our hearts

PRECIOUS. I could eat O and her pigtails right up!

Goldendoodle

2009-06-17T17:40:00.003-07:00

I am prepared to go into debt to buy this puppy. I have lost my mind, but I am in LOVE.

Session 9 Photography

2009-06-14T16:42:00.001-07:00

Our good friends, Jason and Jessica Williams, started a photography business called Session 9 Photography. They took our family pictures a couple weeks ago at Tempe Center for the Arts. My family has not had pictures taken since I was seven or something ridiculous like that. I think the pictures turned out great!! I'm excited to see where Jess and Jay's talent takes them. You should check out their pictures and book them for a shoot! Here are a few of my favorites...

** This one makes me laugh because we look like Arrested Development. It's a great picture!

So Rewarding

2009-06-13T15:40:00.001-07:00

This summer I am continuing to work for Speech and More, Inc. On Wednesday, one of my little kindergarten girls gave me the sweetest note in a sealed envelope. Notes like these make work so worth it!

conGRADulations

2009-06-13T15:37:00.000-07:00

This is a little late, but I still wanted to post! My sister graduated high school last month! Yay :) My parents officially have no more kids in high school...

Chicken Tortilla Casserole

2009-06-08T18:44:00.000-07:00

I am no Martha Stewart- lets just get that out of the way. I'm ashamed to say that Andrew and I spent our entire first year of marriage eating frozen Freschetta pizzas and pasta. Cooking scared me. Fortunately, I've faced my fears and Andrew and I now eat like semi-normal people. My mom on the other hand, is an extraordinary cook. One of my favorites growing up was/is chicken tortilla casserole. People always ask for the recipe because it is THAT good. I take no credit... thank Susan Bryant. (She has a facebook now by the way! hah!)

Here it is:

1 can of cream of chicken soup
8 oz. sour cream
Small can of green chilies (I usually buy the small Macyos one)
Dash of garlic powder and pepper
Chicken (you can buy rotisserie chicken and just throw some in, and use the rest of the chicken for something else the next day)
12 white corn tortillas (just tear up the tortilla in small pieces)
A cup of shredded cheese or more

Mix everything together and bake at 350 degrees for about 40 minutes

* My mom usually doubles this recipe when she cooks for our family of six

Africa

2009-06-07T16:03:00.001-07:00

I miss Africa today...

Rifle Design

2009-06-04T21:47:00.001-07:00

I've been meaning to post about Rifle Design for awhile now. Anna Bond's illustrations and designs can only be summed up as amazing. Look at her blog and be inspired! Have fun!

Faith like a Child

2009-06-03T15:50:00.000-07:00

The moment I most cherish from this past school year happened while I was testing a kindergartner, S. I was giving an evaluation to see if he qualified for speech. I showed S a picture of a king, and he was supposed to tell me what he saw in the picture. He responded appropriately, and said "king." Then he paused for a second and declared, "Jesus is my King." I was floored. A five year old just professed his faith to me. He continued, "Is Jesus your King, Ms. Katie?" Whoa. Holding back tears, I said, "Yes, He is my King, S." He went further and claimed, "That's good. Jesus is going to come back for us someday, IF we believe in him." Oh my goodness. How cool to be witnessed to by a kindergartner.

I didn't get a chance to tell his mom what S had said until this morning. I figured that if he were my child, I would want to know that every moment spent teaching him about the cross and Christ's love had grown deep roots in his heart. I told her the story in the parking lot, and she started crying. She grabbed my hand, and said, "Thank you for sharing that with me." I thought I would share it with the rest of you.

I pray that my kid is so in love with Jesus, that he witnesses to his teacher in kindergarten :)

Puppies

2009-05-28T08:52:00.000-07:00

I think we decided to get a Golden Retriever puppy instead of an Australian Shepherd. Any name suggestions?

Someday!

2009-05-26T15:50:00.000-07:00

We move in to the rental house in the beginning of July. Don't get me wrong-I'm excited, but I think I'm going to have a really hard time having an "incomplete" house for awhile. I need to get to a place where I am content to shut doors leading to unfurnished bedrooms. I wish I didn't care, but I love design so much! I'm the kind of girl that would rather have an awesome couch than diamonds around my neck. Since money is an object, I resort to the blog-world of design... these are some inspiring pictures that make me excited for "someday"...

*I have kept these pictures in a folder on my computer for quite some time, so unfortunately I do not have photo credits. I need to better at that!

The Brothers Bloom

2009-05-23T12:37:00.001-07:00

Andrew and I went on a date last night (with our friend Joe), and saw The Brothers Bloom. Andrew has been anticipating this film for what seems like an eternity! I would give it two thumbs up--it was excellent! Go see the trailer.

*Also, people occasionally comment that Andrew looks like Mark Ruffalo. I guess I can see it--if i squint :)

A Big Kid

2009-05-20T20:18:00.000-07:00

My husband was "helping" Ava and Cambrea build a sand castle, but from the looks of this picture, he was thoroughly enjoying himself. I love him

Megan's Grad. Party

2009-05-20T14:01:00.001-07:00

My little sister is graduating on Thursday! Holy cow- I still think of her as a seven year old for some reason. We had her graduation party on Sunday, and I was feeling rather ambitious. I found cute "graduation cap" lollipops at Bakerella, and decided to give them a try. These are a couple pictures of the process...

And this is how they turned out!

I also made this display board of Megan's pictures growing up. My family always jokes that it looks like a memorial, or a shrine at the least.

I love my sister, and am super proud of her :)

crewcuts

2009-05-06T16:14:00.001-07:00

I love J.Crew's "crewcuts." You can now view the catalog online

If they made these clothes in my size, I would buy them in a second.

Meet our new car!

2009-05-04T17:35:00.000-07:00

After three long months of looking, and one atrocious month of being a one-car family, we finally bought a car! It's not the Xterra we were looking for (not even close), but it's great for us. It is ironic that we replaced Andrew's 1995 Honda Civic with this 06 Civic. We are really thankful to have reliable transportation!

The Greatest Headband

2009-04-30T09:49:00.000-07:00

Lizzie Fortunato If You're Going to San Francisco Headband - $230.

This headband is the coolest thing I have ever seen. Too bad it is crazy expensive! Large headbands are a great way to cover up your hair on bad/greasy hair days. I'm inspired to create this headband (on a budget) .... I'll let you know how it goes!

[via inside the loop]

Kids say funny things

2009-04-29T14:58:00.001-07:00

Today at work, one of my little kindergarten girls proudly announced to the other kids at the table, "Hey guys, Ms. Katie shaves her armpits!"
It was fantastic. If only she knew the gift I was giving her by shaving my armpits.

Happy Friday

2009-04-17T17:20:00.000-07:00

[Malin Ngoie photography]

Red Merle Australian Shepherd

2009-04-17T14:32:00.000-07:00

This dog is a strong contender.... Isn't he cute?!

ASU for grad. school

2009-04-15T14:25:00.000-07:00

It's official! I sent in my letter of intent to ASU today!

I was having such a hard time choosing which graduate program to go to. I had three really good programs to choose from, and I didn't feel God leading me one way or another. UofA was out of the running when I wasn't offered funding and had no prospect of a job. That left ASU and UofO- and since then, I have been torn. UofO would be such an adventure, but ASU would be safe and predictable. UofO was offering me funding, and ASU had not offered me anything. It was really hard to pass up free school. I made a pros/cons list (a very detailed, organized one) and still didn't feel the Lord leading my heart toward one school.

I don't think I am very good at listening to the Lord.... so, yesterday he hit me over the head with a 2x4 (in a good way). I found out that ASU will fund me completely and I will even receieve a stipend every month to pay for living expenses! It was the best day of my life... I literally felt the weight of the world leave my shoulders. The best part is, the Lord completely provided this for me. I did not receieve funding based on merit or anything that I myself, acheived... it was PROVIDED. Once again, the Lord showed up in a big way (as He always does). Of course there are always strings attached with financial aid, so I have agreed to work in early-intervention in the state of Arizona for four years after I graduate.

To further my excitement, I think we are going to rent Andrew's aunt's house in Tempe. This means we might be able to get a dog!!!!! Yesterday was one of the best days of my life :)

This Makes Me Happy

2009-04-09T08:03:00.000-07:00

[found via little green notebook]

Heidi Merrick

2009-04-07T09:22:00.000-07:00

I could never afford even a sleeve of these dresses.... but a girl can dream, right?

[via unruly things]

Because I like it

2009-04-05T14:16:00.001-07:00

Pass the Pigs

2009-04-03T17:10:00.000-07:00

My family has been playing "Pass the Pigs" since I was little. We played it last weekend during my mom's birthday, and it's still as fun as when I was in fourth grade!

It's in the details...

2009-04-02T13:50:00.001-07:00

The way products are presented is important to me. I've always wanted to be the person that designs the packaging for great products. Unfortunately, they don't offer a degree for that at ASU haha. When I visit Anthropologie, (on the rare occasion that I actually buy something), I am just as excited about what my purchase is packaged in! These are a few of the companies whose attention to detail I admire...

[anthropologie]

[sopranos]

[philosophy]

Spring Headband

2009-04-01T15:02:00.000-07:00

My mom and I visited a cute store in downtown Mesa called Domestic Bliss. They were selling these cute crochet flowers attached to safety pins. I opted to attach my flower to a stretchy handband from Target. I think it's pretty fun!

Decisions

2009-03-30T16:26:00.001-07:00

This picture pretty much sums up how I feel about life right now. I'm not complaining--it's a good place to be. I'm just not sure what to do from here...

picture via [dim-baida]

Happy Birthday!

2009-03-29T08:58:00.001-07:00

Happy Birthday, Mom! I love you!

Reminder

2009-03-18T15:22:00.001-07:00

[via dazeychic]

Ethan Allen Chair for 15 bucks!

2009-03-17T10:12:00.000-07:00

I scored a sweet Ethan Allen chair at Goodwill's 50% off sale! The best part is that it only cost $15.00! The chair really is filthy, and I'm a bit scared to touch those cushions.... but I can't help imagining the endless possibilities for this chair. I spent this weekend sanding it down and staining it. The spindles are one of the characteristics I love about the chair, but they are not very conducive to sanding. Now I'm combing the internet in search of the perfect fabric. Anyone have any ideas?

Orla Kiely

2009-03-15T15:05:00.000-07:00

I love my new Orla Kiely kitchen mat from Target! Her stuff is amazing, and I appreciate her efforts to make it affordable!

I have options!

2009-03-14T16:37:00.000-07:00

I got accepted to the University of Oregon.... woot woot! All I'm waiting for now is a letter from ASU. After that, it's decision time!

Design Lust

2009-03-12T14:54:00.001-07:00

I've been feeling an overwhelming desire to take on a decorating project. I love reading blogs, but I think it is leading to designer lust. I go back in forth between the idea that because we have an apartment, it is not worth painting walls and investing in furniture because we are not going to live here much longer. The other side of me screams, "You are only promised today!" These are some images that are the source of my envy...

I can breathe a sigh of relief

2009-03-11T15:00:00.000-07:00

I got accepted into the Master's program at the University of Arizona!!!!! YAY!

Yes please

2009-03-05T11:59:00.000-08:00

How amazing is this shower curtain?!

[via anthropologie]

The Bachelor

2009-03-03T08:27:00.001-08:00

The Bachelor is one of my secret shames....I know the premise is ridiculous, but I can't help myself! I watch it every Monday night with my mom. I felt better about watching the show after seeing Meredith Vieira on Ellen. Meridith admitted that she watches The Bachelor and doesn't feel guilty about it because her friend who has her Ph.D watches it (haha). It made me feel better too :)

However, after watching the finale, I don't know if I will ever watch The Bachelor again. I feel like I've invested something in this show, and last night was terrible! It never seems to work out!

Wishing

2009-02-27T21:05:00.000-08:00

[Lola as a puppy]

Right now I really wish I had a cuddly dog and a box of girl scout cookies

New season... New clothes

2009-02-26T08:06:00.000-08:00

I so wish I could afford these cute outfits. Click here for Dace Spring 2009!

[via simplesong]

Creativity?

2009-02-23T14:23:00.000-08:00

I've mentioned before that I am a creative person, but I do not know how channel it.
This is something I would love to do. I love the printing process, letter press, graphic design, details...

These little accordion books are so amazing, but so extremely expensive! I'm feeling inspired

Swoon

2009-02-20T12:16:00.000-08:00

I am swooning over Maria Bonita Extra.

Take a look...

... I love the attention to detail

Stolen

2009-02-17T07:39:00.000-08:00

My cell phone was stolen Friday night at Someburros :(
Sad sad story.

The worst part in this whole mess, is that I'm so disgruntled over the way Someburros handled things, that I will have pass on the highly favored bean and cheese burritos.

On the bright side, I have a pretty cool brother who gave me his broken cell phone. I went and had the screen replaced, and now I get to use this beauty :) Thanks, Andrew!

Re-wind

2009-02-12T08:24:00.000-08:00

If I had to re-do my wedding, this is what my bridesmaids would wear! I LOVE this... J.Crew of course

Balloons

2009-02-10T10:14:00.001-08:00

I love pictures with balloons

2009-02-09T15:17:00.001-08:00

I bet everything tastes better in this kitchen

2009-02-07T13:09:00.000-08:00

....

2009-02-06T13:46:00.000-08:00

This is what I am dreaming about today...