This Weekend

 

 Dress: Unique Boutique in Delafield, Necklace: AE. Tights: Bella Mia in Plymouth, MI, Boots: JcPenny

  I had the entire weekend off! In the retail word, that seems impossible. Boy, did we play this weekend! We drank lots of coffee, went grocery shopping at specialty grocers and did some shopping! We discovered this weekend that antique stores are where we want to be! We spent hours looking at vintage, (some seemed not so vintage) jewelry, hats, furniture, everything. We like to imagine who used to own each item, what they used it for, or who gave it to them. I have a feeling more days off will look like this. Most importantly though, we spent quality time together and had some really good conversations and that will last even longer than those old antiques.

Introducing....

 Top: UO, Cardigan worn as Skirt: AE, Belt: F21, Tights: Target, Necklace: Francesca's Collections, Boots: JcPenny

My little sister Bethany!

Hat: Gander MTN, Glasses: UO, Necklace: Francesca's Collection, Top: Eddie Bauer, Pants: UO, Socks: Eddie Bauer, Boots: Delias

 I convinced her to take a little outfit picture because she has great style too! She was a little nervous but doesn't she look great?!

Also, she took my photos today, what a day of firsts for her.

La Petite Danse Informations*

Glasses: UO, Necklace: Francesca's Collections, Dress: AE, Tights: Target: Socks: Target, Shoes: JcPenny

*French for "The Small Dance Update".. I think. 

I'm back at the studio 4 times a week and for me, it's one of the best feelings in the world. Most of the time, I ask myself "why oh why did I quit?" But the point is, I am there now, here now, dancing in a class that is below my actual level, trying to rebuild strength. I am the tallest, definitely the oldest and the only one that has graduated from high school.. gulp. But the girl are the sweetest and they don't laugh at me when I end up on the wrong foot, backwards, upside down - well that one hasn't happened yet.

In other news I have Jazz starting on wednesday and a lyrical class on thursday! Here we go!

Cranberry Upside-Down Cake

                           

Necklace and Dress: Francesca's, Tights: Target, Socks: Payless, Shoes, Forever 21

 Today it was cold. A little too cold. I think that's why I look like I'm about to cry in the first picture. 

 All I wanted to do is curl up next to the fire and watch the office, so I did. And I ate some comfort food...cake. It's perfect with coffee or hot chocolate, or both. Recipe for this cake is found here, I tweaked a few ingredients, whole wheat flour, honey in place of some sugar. But don't worry, I'm sure you can enjoy this cake no matter what the weather is. 

Knit, Knit, Knit

 Hat: Handmade, Sweater: AE, Shirt: Old Navy, Jeggings: AE, Boot Socks: Handmade by my sister, Boots: Urbanog

I have been waiting for the day I could wear this hat that I finished on NYE. You can obviously see that today was the perfect day! Loads of snow in Milwaukee, loads. Although the snow ruined our plans to go here, I will be enjoying a day of knitting, painting, and cooking. I'm also praying that the yoga classes aren't cancelled so I can get in for a warm session. 

What do you like to do on snowy days?

The Home has a Heart

Top: Forever21, Shorts: Old Navy, Tights: Target, Shoes: Thrifted, Necklace: For Love

I've been reading this book recently, I found it on our honeymoon at a coffee shop filled with old books and when I asked if it was even for sale, they told me just to take it because they get new books donated all the time! I was very excited, It's written by a swedish mother for new brides trying to figure out how to cook, and entertain. She also has sweet little prayers and words of wisdom to share. It's so encouraging and has many lovely swedish recipes. 

"The darkness [of the world] can never snuff out the flame which was lit by God's love to our world."

Thrya Ferre Bjourn

DIY Cape

  Before:

After:

 Cape: Thrifted, Shirt, Necklace and tights: Aerie, Belt: Aerie, Skirt: H&M, Boots: Urban nog

I found this brand new poncho (tags still attached!) at the thrift store. I've been searching for a cute knit cape for a little while and when I saw this.. I hoped that my crazy idea would work they don't always. I cut right now the front and then whip knit(?)/stitched it with black yarn to keep it from fraying. I think I will add buttons to make it even more cape-like.

What do you think? What have you refashioned lately?

Ballet Class

  Necklace: For Love, Shirt: Target, Skirt: Bella Mia, Tights: Target, Shoes: Forever 21

Today was my first ballet class in 4 years..4 years! I'm crazy. Well let's just say it was quite the challenge. I remembered God speaking to me this morning, Be patient today, with yourself and others. I needed lots of patience with myself. It felt so great to move my body though! Here's to trying new old things!

Quiet Bag

 

 Dress: Thrifted, Belt: Aerie, Tights: Target, Socks: Aerie, Boots: Urban Nog, Bracelet: Aerie, Purse: Gifted

My family gave me this bag for Christmas, filled with all things crafty. I love the idea of this as I always find myself is situations where I want to knit, color, or just create. Now it's all in one place, I can make a pretty card, paint, quill, knit or crochet, color, draw and sketch. I most definitely will be adding to this as well. I have already brought it every where with me! You never know when you are caught at a party and need a little escape.