tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-55888406982732650642024-03-05T02:16:39.247-08:00Our designed lifeHi friends. Our designed life was started in 2008 as a way for me to keep track of all things beautiful. Anything and everything inspires me- from amazing interiors to glammed out fashion shoots, fantastic parties and tasty meals. So please, stay awhile and get inspired.Monicahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16824095580277555310noreply@blogger.comBlogger980125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5588840698273265064.post-31355545166326470572013-03-08T10:30:00.002-08:002013-03-08T10:30:47.081-08:00DIY printable funI've slowly been putting the baby's space together, thanks to bed rest in the middle of December and then her making her big debut an entire month and a half early in January I was not ready with all my crafty goodness. I still have a million ideas and they keep changing, but one thing that has stayed pretty much the same is the idea of incorporating birds. A while back my Mom and I hand made little birds with the idea of hanging them as a mobile but, well, that's changed. I've got another idea in mind for them and am hoping to get it finished really soon. The husband has been on paternity leave for the last few weeks taking off 2 days a week to hang out and be a dad but it still hasn't given me enough time in a day to do everything I want. Its funny, just this morning he mentioned that he had read something stating that new Mom's on average have an extra 8 hours of work a day and boy does that sound right. Between feedings, snuggles, diaper changes, baths and ridiculous amounts of baby laundry there just isn't enough time in a day!<br />
But back to the decor, like I said, I've had birds in mind and a while back I came across these <a href="http://wildhoneypie.canalblog.com/archives/2012/10/05/25249934.html" target="_blank">fun and free downloadable feathers</a> from <a href="http://wildhoneypie.canalblog.com/" target="_blank">Little honey pie</a> that would be a fun little accent somewhere in Chickie's space. The colors are pretty much spot on as to what I have going already so that is always a plus! Be sure to check out the post for the printable and get your paper crafting on!<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/ourdesignedlife/8540191988/in/photostream" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjsMS60pNV7XLKCrt2GdnGr0rEvA0sGG664oTMoNw4TpJ_8EMkdv49W5vchJsiPI-mQy38MjVK7gWdHtCrQVZq_aG5JIOBV2pMk3jKvPwrA5CRgwytO3anWNrP8UWonWcGozIBA7ixjaC5/s1600/feathers.jpeg" /></a><br /><span style="color: #f4cccc;"><i>found on <a href="http://wildhoneypie.canalblog.com/archives/2012/10/05/25249934.html" target="_blank">little honey pie</a></i></span></div>
<br />Monicahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16824095580277555310noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5588840698273265064.post-16092327885774356532013-03-07T10:09:00.001-08:002013-03-08T10:13:08.879-08:001 month of lovePhew, I am so behind on posting its not even funny. I am just now getting around to posting little Chickie's (my nickname for my little lady) first month photos even though yesterday she turned two months old! I shot these gems in our living room while she was in between feeds, and I was lucky enough to get a few shots in before she spit up all over the pillow...gotta love newborns. Life with a little one has been one fun and very tiring ride. But I wouldn't change it for the world, my Chickie is just way too cute. She is getting bigger by the day and is pounds of fun, in these photos she was around 5lbs 8 ounces. She's was super tiny but since has grown to be a little chunky. I just love her so much and now that she is sleeping a little more regularly things are all starting to fall into place. I'll be posting her 2 month photos as soon as I can get a little more time on the computer, seems every time I touch it the baby wakes up and needs something. Just like when dinner is served...I swear its like she smells the food and wakes up just as I am about to take my first bite!<br />
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<span style="color: #f4cccc;"><i>photos by our designed life</i></span></div>
Monicahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16824095580277555310noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5588840698273265064.post-11956124651667499152013-01-21T09:43:00.000-08:002013-01-21T09:43:31.389-08:00I've been gone but have a great reason! Boy its been a while since a logged in to blog land. And for good reason, I had my baby!! Baby A came much earlier then we had expected at just 34 weeks old and after 20 hours of medication free labor and an emergency C-section I had my little girl. Born January 9th at 11:20 and weighing in at only 4 pounds 7 ounces. She is doing much better, being so early has lead to her spending her first bit of life in the NICU, a place I had never imagined I would be. It was tough to see my little one with tubes and IV lines but thankfully she is quite the show off and has done nothing but reach her growth goals. We are so thankful to all the amazing nurses giving her round the clock care and making her nice and strong to come home. She has finally passed her birth weight and is cooing like crazy...we even got to give her a bath last night. Lets just say her lungs had no problem developing! The husband and I cannot wait to have our little girl home with us very soon...hopefully within this next week if everything goes to plan.<br />
We just had the baby shower over the weekend (we were all joking in the hospital that I would have to Skype in to my own party) and I am now stocked up on tons of baby goodies including my old bassinet. My Mom kept it in amazing shape over the years and its surprisingly way more sturdy then the ones found in stores now. I love the lace details and can't wait to see the little one hanging out in my old digs. Below are just a few shots we took of her growing in the hospital; turns out we are already those parents that have way too many pictures of their baby...and she is only 13 days old!<br />
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<span style="color: #f4cccc;"><i>photos by our designed life</i></span></div>
Monicahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16824095580277555310noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5588840698273265064.post-89097767533262287102013-01-02T09:05:00.001-08:002013-01-02T09:05:48.035-08:00Hanging in thereIts officially been 15 days of being on bedrest and boy is this difficult. I've never been one to just sit around all day and do nothing {funny how when we are super busy we dream of being lazy!} so having to physically lay down and try to keep as calm as possible is becoming torturous. My poor husband, he thankfully had this entire time off from work or worked from home during the holiday week but today went back in to the office. Thankfully my Mom is stopping by for much needed tlc around the house...sometimes you just need your Mom. And though I have ample amounts of time for simple things like knitting, blogging and tv watching, I've noticed a major decline in the desire to be any kind of productive. Don't get me wrong, I am happy to take it easy for my little girl to finish growing but its really quite difficult. Anyone else out there go through bedrest before? I can't wait to meet our little one, in fact, with the thought of her coming any day now we rushed to get a car seat just in case and the husband already installed it into the car. But until then its just Uli and I chillin in bed watching hours of tv.<br />
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<a href="http://instagram.com/p/TjAR4irLp4/" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUNJ6q9xHT4hRkA7bfL45puDsARw1A6f0nzUzYt5qGVVYcmCPYPk_If5BMboGe1bcWdImKdsTNqR4gTTOpRdpEjkvhERerF_19OHsftiMYfAwNo20KsUG_2cUsT-DmgV6Nohci6kc5ghia/s1600/uli.jpeg" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #f4cccc;"><i>image by <a href="http://instagram.com/p/TjAR4irLp4/" target="_blank">our designed life on instagram</a></i></span></div>
Monicahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16824095580277555310noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5588840698273265064.post-31715536716689640372012-12-31T04:46:00.000-08:002012-12-31T04:46:15.588-08:00Fancy sipping Happy last day of 2012 friends. I've had the lovely pleasure of being wide awake since 1 am thanks to tons of baby kicks, seems I am now able to function on just 2 and a half hours of sleep. I sure wish I could actually get things done around the house but being on bed rest has me tethered to the couch all day and night. But at least I am still feeling healthy right?<br />
But back to celebrating another years end. While everyone is dressed to the nines and sipping fancy concoctions, I will be home taking in a glass or two of organic sparkling pear juice and hopefully watching the famous ball drop. And speaking of fancy drinks how fantastic does this <a href="http://www.designsponge.com/2010/05/behind-the-bar-with-aran-goyoaga.html" target="_blank">homemade ginger ale</a> look!? I haven't sipped soda since New Years Eve of 1998 as a bet with my Mom and the only exception to that rule has been ginger ale yet I never thought of making it myself. Seems relatively easy and though it takes a few days to get nice and fizzy I bet its totally worth it. I've already made it a point to show the husband since I cannot cook and he even agreed its doable so hopefully I will be drinking my own version of this soon.<br />
Wishing everyone out there a very safe and joyous New Years celebration.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/ourdesignedlife/8329934148/in/photostream" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXKjRe5Ac3yD4en5Xk61Pxwc9fBGxPNIKKzTR09dge95mnh63ff_T8BTvpDQoPgay7il5mEefi5gwLk5s7tBw76KxFT9izE-oXQiDNoyvbLt_kecEuK4lYzocC2BQCVxj5KgOZc6lOBzHb/s1600/ginger.jpeg" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #f4cccc;"><i>image via <a href="http://www.designsponge.com/2010/05/behind-the-bar-with-aran-goyoaga.html" target="_blank">design sponge</a></i></span></div>
Monicahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16824095580277555310noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5588840698273265064.post-78222682084229677312012-12-27T13:12:00.000-08:002012-12-27T13:12:52.880-08:00Its been a long week I've been missing lately and am just now finally feeling up to having a computer in front of me. Thank goodness for my iPhone or I would have been completely out of the loop for over a week! Last week I was admitted to the hospital, seems the pain I was having wasn't as normal as I had originally thought and had to be monitored, poked and prodded for 3 days. Talk about stressful. But the good news is that baby was always doing just fine, it was me that was having a few issues. Now we just have to focus on having her stay put, at only 8 months she's still a wee bit too little to be making her big appearance. Since last Wednesday I have been on official bed rest, I even have to limit the amount of crafting thanks to a doctor that thinks its just more work. So I've been laying in bed with the dog watching hour upon hour of Netflix and Hulu...anyone have any recommendations I could check out???<br />
I hope everyone had a wonderful holiday, I was thankfully able to be released from the hospital Monday afternoon a mere hours before my family's big Christmas dinner. And even though I had to sit on the couch all night and have everything brought to me it was so nice to be able to spend time with my family and get my mind off of hospitals and test results.<br />
Now I'm off for another round of laying around and doing a whole lot of nothing, my poor husband has had to work major overtime around here getting me meals, walking the dog and doing countless chores all while keeping up with his regular work schedule. What a guy.<br />
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<a href="http://instagram.com/ourdesignedlife" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibZ1NcPVSaKdToBbiyg89p95eP1aSZeSgRE76UPYAFz-RCrpMwnTUk9O7MQ9BfSntZ1dt3GsFSPc7xCCZ89fCG6K-hp-Inh6MM_ZgknoDuU79QO55X4TefVpk3paDJX-kbuubVNBPwDNwN/s1600/flower.jpeg" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #f4cccc;"><i>image by <a href="http://instagram.com/ourdesignedlife" target="_blank">our designed life on instagram</a></i></span> </div>
Monicahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16824095580277555310noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5588840698273265064.post-9424180121477627932012-12-19T09:46:00.000-08:002012-12-19T09:46:41.803-08:00Instagram love These last few weeks have just flown by and I suppose it doesn't help that I simply can't keep my eyes open. Yesterday I sat down at 2 after having a nice lunch and then before you know it I woke up at 5:15 in total darkness. Whoops. Baby growing sure does take a lot of energy. I've slowly but surely been getting ready for all things holiday and just need one more gift to get. Are you guys ready for the holidays?<br />
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As I mentioned, the husband and I stopped off at Renegade Craft fair on Saturday and I picked up a new <a href="http://www.klaibrown.com/WELCOME.html" target="_blank">Lerf Ewe</a> cup to add to our growing collection, I think we are up to 7 now! I just love how no two are alike and artist Klai is such a wonderful person to chat with. We have grown to know her over the years and even though we see her only once a year she always remembers us. Talk about a great memory!<br />
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The husband has started to get things up on the wall to get ready for baby, it only seemed natural to put up our do your best print for her. I also hung a photo of the husband and I that we took for our baby announcement and a darling mouse illustrated patch. I still need to paint the frame but am not sure as to what color...these are sitting right above a dresser that is a creamy white so I'm just not 100% as to what color I want it to be.<br />
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And lastly in this weeks Instagram love is our main holiday decor. Our fireplace/radio/record/8 track player has been all dolled up with festive packages and a few natural ornaments. Since we live in a small apartment and didn't want to drag a full size Christmas tree up I opted for a small rosemary bush. Last year I made that fabric bunting and decided it would be the perfect way to spruce up our little bush. Not a whole lot of color but its just the way I like it, simple and to the point. How have you decorated this year?<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/ourdesignedlife/8288573302/in/photostream" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIzTUb4ZF6dbtHzUG7499liCAJ2Kc65bRF91IVbrAwVsnr_BMYE6qbxYbwM9_AYCpa8EmIIrzguCC96Y25h4E0S7H9fDmtaWYCCA3nVKV-dJHPhDvQB8uuNfROStofVMHqu9Gv7U7ja7gs/s1600/insta.jpeg" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #f4cccc;"><i>images by our designed life on <a href="http://instagram.com/ourdesignedlife" target="_blank">instagram</a></i></span></div>
Monicahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16824095580277555310noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5588840698273265064.post-14093816877707884092012-12-18T05:00:00.000-08:002012-12-18T05:00:03.966-08:00DIY funI am a firm believer that you can never have too many calendars around and this simple diy from <a href="http://blog.imbreannarose.com/" target="_blank">Breanna Rose</a> is a perfect way to see the year at a glance as well as add a little flair to your walls. And its totally free! Not only does Breanna share the <a href="http://blog.imbreannarose.com/do-it-yourself-printable-calendar/" target="_blank">downloadable calendar</a> but she also shares step by step instructions on how to create your own festive hanger. I might just have to print one up and hang it in my kitchen for a splash of color. And do stop by her <a href="http://blog.imbreannarose.com/" target="_blank">blog</a> for even more diy ideas and amazing finds, I just love her style.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/ourdesignedlife/8283049760/in/photostream" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-A9pEHCTMjwIin7KR8sQ0YpKejhj1xQPa7TJymBm_tEl5jfbY6sx6v4rSRiXR6DAL3GnrT5bUGFrRyURyc-68q9EApHnRLIDLhMTan-PcRYo7Mjn7zYYEZplbBVH5PA0XOTG4WOo5BYgD/s1600/cal.jpeg" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #f4cccc;"><i>image via <a href="http://blog.imbreannarose.com/do-it-yourself-printable-calendar/" target="_blank">breanna rose</a></i></span></div>
Monicahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16824095580277555310noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5588840698273265064.post-83562148822344414842012-12-17T10:34:00.002-08:002012-12-17T10:34:53.531-08:00Arcane Arts<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Over the weekend the husband and I braved the cold rain to stop in at the holiday <a href="http://www.renegadecraft.com/sanfrancisco-holiday-info" target="_blank">Renegade Craft Fair</a> and boy were we not disappointed I was amazed to see <a href="http://instagram.com/p/TRh2LrrLna/" target="_blank">so many people</a>, it was so crowded I don't think I was even able to see all the booths, but I suppose that's a great sign of folks supporting artists. One booth that did however catch my eye was the colorful walls of <a href="http://arcane-arts.com/" target="_blank">Arcane Arts</a>. With natural elements, dreamy scenery and even custom portraits I was sure to grab artist Adrienne Vita's card for future commissioned work. I would love a custom print of our little one by her! And aside from illustrations and prints, Adrienne also has a fun assortment of <a href="http://arcane-arts.com/shop/category/pillows/" target="_blank">pillows</a> too.</div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/ourdesignedlife/8281982902/in/photostream" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXguGu3RuHS9dUMse-pSRRvLMzOiHmqGYodRJ6DpjYeo9ly8vRUhXgrWKYePBiBGbBOn_-zI6aE7Ss5gwWn2iQ_L18eefwvYzCtNrSWTf_G1mTsDdhKN39GyL6D04sKioV3jL1s-xrI-Vp/s1600/drawing1.jpeg" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #f4cccc;"><i>images by <a href="http://arcane-arts.com/" target="_blank">arcane arts</a></i></span></div>
Monicahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16824095580277555310noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5588840698273265064.post-5456178722239287552012-12-14T05:00:00.000-08:002012-12-14T05:00:03.198-08:00Beautiful flakesI have a confession, until I saw these amazing macro shots by Russian photographer <a href="http://en.www.lensart.ru/user-uid-1676.htm" target="_blank">Andrew Osokin</a> I had no idea each individual snowflake was this detailed. Don't get me wrong, I knew no two were alike but boy I had no idea they were this intricate! I always wondered why we used to cut up those darling snowflakes as kids into odd shapes but now I get it. One of <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/j_radical/" target="_blank">my buddies</a> shared this photographer on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Our-Designed-Life/196348475972" target="_blank">Facebook</a> a while back and I can't stop but think of them every time there is a chill in the air. They are just such beautiful images. Can you imagine how hard it was to catch these before they melted! Being a native California girl that has only seen snow a handful of times these shots just blow my mind and make me want to go play in a few beautiful flakes. Be sure to check out the rest of Andrew's <a href="http://en.www.lensart.ru/user-uid-1676.htm" target="_blank">amazing photography</a>, he will make your mouth drop with such stunning beauty.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/ourdesignedlife/8271329406/in/photostream" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1-Gbn3eAq4bshx4Dqdg3ZOr-nPT1GHBNrK1r7X8Gg9QGLLdSARKOJMmAyIY7kkLNXqo5Qs0lOpaQyw_nfZfGvkftKvQyrgKvE4u5gllV9vAjoaaLrnZzi3wQKBCJ5NoVeEtgFu0S_50S3/s1600/snow1.jpeg" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/ourdesignedlife/8270265029/in/photostream" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbl6VLm_cPXvmB7Rwj4-mfrrgJQtZ_znZwLCwGUPOB3TwpHd3u-O4aTUQ5xMAemHiUirTL_2UhasBLYcVSHtlTFR-1c7FPdAL7zJiCavDHFOKeVXsrDHMt0qjUDjiswOyVWfZn3PNtzccz/s1600/snow2.jpeg" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/ourdesignedlife/8271329290/in/photostream" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8gUDmmbnFom8JYOx94kcj_kbDMM5yh3XrWC_YE92HubBbQQ3NJeZUqfxdypRM-Ufr7NRy_cGPCjs2PvuBZW07KzS_ZNpK3Xezt5XfsrPQhPXlM0lS3VE_4YaxANLBa1T7wyVrvu8BXBLl/s1600/snow3.jpeg" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #f4cccc;"><i>found by <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/j_radical/" target="_blank">jemappelle j rad</a> and <a href="http://www.petapixel.com/2012/12/07/ethereal-macro-photos-of-snowflakes-in-the-moments-before-they-disappear/" target="_blank">peta pixel</a>, images by <a href="http://en.www.lensart.ru/user-uid-1676.htm" target="_blank">andrew osokin</a></i></span></div>
<span id="goog_1102953104"></span>Monicahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16824095580277555310noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5588840698273265064.post-64508197417267774502012-12-11T11:40:00.000-08:002012-12-11T11:40:39.763-08:00Mount Royal MintThese little plushies just make me say awwww. Hand crafted in Montreal by <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/MountRoyalMint" target="_blank">Mount Royal Mint</a>, these one of a kind teeny tiny guys with tons of personality are perfect for a special someone. After making tiny birds I totally get why the little toys cost just as much as bigger ones, they are super hard to stitch together! Stop by and give Mount Royal Mint a little love, there are so many adorable creatures looking for a lovely home.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/ourdesignedlife/8264172939/in/photostream" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjF3oLXcaYnFy87bj3BXxDBMAvQDi-VLwqTj3LotObFQmU_7IlWTU6EBl1YQKrKRok3KEJtxmetM86kFf5wvAVTjvwoqSCF7ZtucVZUBJjJtXhyrCFfGroxI0Ra5pdZAdhycOiw-NPz0uLH/s1600/plush1.jpeg" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/ourdesignedlife/8264172891/in/photostream" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfNby_KbjG9d8ZpljFEq6ubnno1oWLjDJo7EtTDIxm54N8fpkZn-3-20D9oboqBPrckpxGhHQf8vX9YbHj4L0zAamrhYZKipTA6eTu2BXt2chO6qVLD2PLUQykJRNNQpLXHn1gm5ms7JPa/s1600/plush2.jpeg" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/ourdesignedlife/8264172829/in/photostream" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjrfQ_faCwEpVPsqFNTg5DCDNVNkypMTOo3_wtd6tglGZ_O9XlkANNZCH7BX_ApFsQgESY3tLNghi29QPIbP7fLJid47AKTMhqzFzM2Ears53pQv1J2KuNA5v0y7_5Sff1azH-10njWRyz/s1600/plush3.jpeg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #f4cccc;"><i>images via <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/MountRoyalMint" target="_blank">mount royal mint</a></i></span></div>
Monicahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16824095580277555310noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5588840698273265064.post-59430253918562370292012-12-10T09:52:00.001-08:002012-12-10T09:52:54.542-08:00Instagram loveIts been a bit of a rough week for me, since last Monday I have been dealing with a baby that seems to like to take up space in my rib cage and it has had me in some pretty serious pain. I can't seem to get a full nights sleep but somehow fall asleep on the couch during the day no problem at all. Hopefully things get a little better soon because it sure is getting hard to stay somewhat comfortable and even breathing is getting tricky! How do you Mom's do it out there!?<br />
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Now that I am snapping away on my new phone I figured I would start sharing some of my favorite Instagram photos from the previous week with you guys here on the blog. This week I got crafty, all dolled up and did a bit of knitting in an unusual place.<br />
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My Mom stopped by to work on the invitations for the little one's baby shower and I could not have been happier with the outcome. We may have gone a little overboard with the DIY but its the first baby so we sort of had to go all out. Using a bit of raised polka dot cardstock, vellum, lace and ribbon we created one super sweet invitation don't you think? That same night as the crafting session {and the only day I was able to stay upright and pain free} was the husband's holiday work party. I must say, I felt super fancy in my new dress and was shocked I could still fit into "regular" clothes...those maternity outfits sure can be a little on the unpleasant looking side. The husband snapped that shot of me at 29 1/2 weeks. And the last photo was taken last night at Analog Tattoo. The husband was getting some work done on his kale tattoo and I broke out my baby blanket for a little productivity. I was a total hipster cliche- knitting in a tattoo shop.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/ourdesignedlife/8261980830/in/photostream" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3CyCoFApMkA8VGGqoIpvCQDW9PPTLUcYFZrmqnW0gr8BAFtPtWU9Lm_KhtR_k4KAXz9pOj-X_l2wbjWpYZgiTKxR4Ifr74oTuFTFRNGKg8_3RNsT6uW8xFYpbwtRzOm2Mej2aZy0AKaPy/s1600/insta.jpeg" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #f4cccc;"><i>images by our designed life on <a href="http://instagram.com/ourdesignedlife" target="_blank">instagram</a></i></span><a href="http://instagram.com/ourdesignedlife" target="_blank"> </a></div>
Monicahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16824095580277555310noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5588840698273265064.post-37389315638526547482012-12-07T05:00:00.000-08:002012-12-07T05:00:09.816-08:00Get creative I've always had a love for all things colorful and these fun place mats from <a href="https://www.modern-twist.com/_modern-twist.php?product=page&which=kbdpclbk&cat=kidz_box" target="_blank">Modern Twist</a> are the perfect gift for all those doodlers. With a bit of modern flair, these mats are a great way to let the kids or kids at heart spark a bit of creativity while waiting for dinner to be served. I'm just loving that dog on a bike; and the best part is you can make it to fit your own color palette.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/ourdesignedlife/8250553923/in/photostream" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHo3opbe9sR0V52G4-B11cHyO4cX-xUbq5nBsgj2rgL7ky221Fe5vr8pVS4RxPw7gddTZmBlHlkvJRYDJD3TcN4ucfcKXNjo9me4ySJVRErbV4df15jJgP1Jv-KKqCK8bWi0CbTJAJQKyo/s1600/mats.jpeg" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #f4cccc;"><i>image via <a href="https://www.modern-twist.com/_modern-twist.php?product=page&which=kbdpclbk&cat=kidz_box" target="_blank">modern twist</a></i></span></div>
Monicahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16824095580277555310noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5588840698273265064.post-34360672686281577212012-12-06T09:25:00.000-08:002012-12-06T09:25:31.806-08:00Gift givingNow that the holidays are approaching and DIYers are scrambling for tasty morsels to whip up and give out to family and friends its only appropriate to share a bit of sprinkle bark don't you think? I am a huge fan of tasty bits as homemade gift giving, you can never go wrong with a few sweets in my opinion and this <a href="http://sweetapolita.com/2011/09/cake-batter-sprinkle-bark/" target="_blank">cake batter and sprinkle bark</a> would sure be a crowd pleaser. I might just have to give this recipe a try with my own <a href="http://www.veganbaking.net/candies-and-truffles/673-white-chocolate" target="_blank">homemade vegan white chocolate</a> and some super dark chocolate thrown in for good measure...oh the tasty possibilities. Wrapped up in a simple container and bow and you have yourself one festive treat to hand out.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/ourdesignedlife/8249440067/in/photostream" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjq8c1LDv-qkk2h15P3cyWtYUh3chdFb5uvq79xUdp5ONrbvAIr6GWKovC9zbmOIfor0fhpfQ563NQqH6TLjDzCTfoyEk_u0aUsc0w2r2XB-xTBJAQKxrip2CG61z6wsp-LA0_dboTJ2eGx/s1600/bark.jpeg" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #f4cccc;"><i>image by <a href="http://sweetapolita.com/2011/09/cake-batter-sprinkle-bark/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+Sweetapolita+%28Sweetapolita%29&utm_content=Google+Reader" target="_blank">sweetapolita</a></i></span></div>
<span id="goog_1798204880"></span>Monicahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16824095580277555310noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5588840698273265064.post-17420458182421993392012-12-04T05:00:00.000-08:002012-12-04T05:00:02.603-08:00An engagement session A month or so ago I ventured out to Rio Vista CA to do a little engagement photo shoot for my adorable cousin and her charming fiance and since I am about to go get my bridesmaid dress for their big day I figured I should finally share these fun shots. The husband and I spend the afternoon driving around their city snapping away and I must say, I am pretty please with what I was able to get...mind you professional I am not! But the most important thing was they are happy with the results too. He is in the Coast Guard and she is all things glamour so we opted for a more vintage-y look along with a few casual shots. Even their dog Daisy got in on the photo fun... she was tied up to Uli for a bit and somehow ended up tangling the lovely couple- a great photo moment if you ask me. Now, I'm off to go squeeze myself into a dress and hope I can lose this baby bump in time for their big day, I will have 6 months to get myself back into tip top shape. No pressure.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/ourdesignedlife/8243285958/in/photostream" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXS-PHloYu4vmDwADgb37jhZBai-9hHqwKziRYQYmZUjB6B6r4GlRm6CY7t1bFpsh774xrWoHmILaMi_J6kyXn-c2eBolMC4LVKJJLMBmj_x1h0I2_MUFPwOmhz7PUazprZPRrMnlvEWjo/s1600/mel2.jpeg" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/ourdesignedlife/8242218187/in/photostream" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAL4mtOIGqeUuHSil0kq6ZNf7sZdHkNX8CNAxL-gaKbfCjbPblrGijce5URgcxFSC-QMiRGajmJeUpDN6s9UFHE1UOZNQbrnyvQA414JWBxJgd-XIacZIL3V4Oh8CJdHTHLe6NsiOzgcls/s1600/mel5.jpg" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/ourdesignedlife/8243285914/in/photostream" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2dY0GTsJewouZciUd3AbysfeMpjz1fnR13La8ES_zCa8thEY-TG8dqK2Fska-T8-dtyInZi5RfYibl9hmNOEkZqllAkmX6FditJfekwSau3JzS6yUwyM76TuyodLgXdOjdzC03Ta54LrB/s1600/mel3.jpeg" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/ourdesignedlife/8243285742/in/photostream" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjh2XCgOazrmzlDJA9TK9VIV-mIzSovwtD7nCLcJD53WRCruUsmgR-Lz7egNEQjfYko88teUzDztMdhyphenhyphenYir-9VAZtxHphMKt3-OEdbtw0Y1wTOxdtCELVFe5Pv7xGYM8KJXuVRXKIpu1Hcc/s1600/mel6.jpg" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/ourdesignedlife/8243286024/in/photostream" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKHssxuJt0uyjTqTZoCsH3Nl3Zt3pCdXcS6U_PNW9XTDufDhC8M3E61cYCLNNxn-Skrk53wuv0XHa8r51OlyFNXgdDtrzgDQDX6qr0yxUDXjKof3u2TPRSyRbxgXOTcDj18r9iwse0N5le/s1600/mel1.jpeg" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/ourdesignedlife/8243285866/in/photostream" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMkFMzAHVPgUXHi5IsKifduIWzi2O2N30D7jbZjJH5EOmWuYzK7RQ1ferHRzAo8xEpVNMhMnfauIBnmQyKA1l8j-cXzwcjm6SXX8xiFFMU2mBvDu8fW1XM-Blq3tUgMtX56x-zeInNLcwR/s1600/mel4.jpeg" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/ourdesignedlife/8243311182/in/photostream" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1bzrmVCPrYKtuvIyl1ZVWyJM7Rw8mGMvKMuCsEGjSZDqNwM-py0e-kTxbqxB50OHhcMyqL_5A5-UpVR79_pmAJbvSgjWaVPQDGY07BTGJRXIij7E_t6XD2WJ7492aeHY4wl3WUO4PP9e-/s1600/mel7.jpeg" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #f4cccc;"><i>photos by our designed life</i></span></div>
Monicahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16824095580277555310noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5588840698273265064.post-31119282407629641762012-12-03T08:31:00.001-08:002012-12-03T08:31:35.951-08:00Let's be friends Last Friday I finally got my new iPhone and in less then 24 hours you can bet I had already installed <a href="http://instagram.com/" target="_blank">Instagram</a>. I've already started snapping shots, the first one of course had to be my little Uli. If you use Instagram let me know I would love to follow you, there are so many great images to filter through its a bit overwhelming but oh so fun. It sure did make the delay on Muni a whole lot easier yesterday. So far I've already captured my baby belly, Uli watching tv and the husband playing with his new phone; the cutest knobs around for our little girls wardrobe and my creative holiday wrapping. So please, stop on by and <a href="http://instagram.com/ourdesignedlife" target="_blank">give me a follow</a>, I'm bound to post some interesting stuff in the next few months with this baby making her big appearance real soon!<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/ourdesignedlife/8241980494/in/photostream" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhk92FppyNctdS-6hq8DR2b4ZW6cPLecRpgJbIIgNGN8M09fV-hH0hFjWSf5GBBWBxOQKXbA0P1TuC4CvEjZvLy_iFf5QHhVnSMga85JxIUSIxbFahM2cQpRoHYPAhg7pvT6fr91K7dc5lf/s1600/insta.jpeg" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #f4cccc;"><i>images by our designed life</i></span></div>
Monicahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16824095580277555310noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5588840698273265064.post-30162290349042034442012-11-28T08:57:00.003-08:002012-11-28T08:57:58.014-08:00For babyWe have been slowly gathering things for baby around here and with a growing collection of toys its quite clear we have a very distinctive style for our little one. Handmade and slightly quirky. And these adorable plushies from <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/krakracraft" target="_blank">Kra Kra craft</a> sure do fit the bill don't you think? There is just something about a more handmade looking toy then a store bought stuffed animal. Not only is there more character and personality they are usually made with better materials and love. My Mom and I have been making our little girl little things here and there, she even has her own custom mobile that looks somewhat similar to those little birds down there. I found some fun fabric in colors that are both kid and adult friendly and will be hung with wooden branches found in Golden Gate park. So much better then something plastic from the store!<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/ourdesignedlife/8225176120/in/photostream" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVyT9pvEet8CoS4lnHC9KfLALSTd7LKIcPzjDLpQ1I_wBsakXkWHFaQoSAHOGSV7v-Mcx9tjHSs29EWO2XMpZFXYu8p4pmTxXqFOFF-C-SfF_hrnZ8a53oMfmEe8oOsDyUcxXdkduSKtp3/s1600/plush1.jpeg" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/ourdesignedlife/8224102395/in/photostream" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlCCHRYajt_7mLxKbV3y2js4ylSZVpzTdFxmZqjwGRmPhHAfNwc015dY6lxA9-OGF2KOLYqgounWPDAeKAbpeugOVctQtv63IKhSKtusLVOAhA-5eITtm156dqEhvNl8oTxq7WB2RcUo3J/s1600/plush2.jpeg" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #f4cccc;"><i>images by <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/krakracraft" target="_blank">kra kra craft</a></i></span></div>
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And we recently got this little critter from my younger cousin. She started off her gift giving with "it looks like it needs a little love but it reminded me of you". And she couldn't have been more right. The tag even states that this little bear "smiles a lot and is an expert on air pollution". Got to love back stories. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitwvGuxfGLiAkqsg0XB-2ekGVDNVdEM0jvqLx9FL_aeUuL-ZeYYDAtIN6GOunM5wGfJM7o3PCQMg4NYH65RN7U-Cd5Y8TtiaupI3GHpWQUHeoHb2RSJD4B2BP6z0IilC8grBbfmFOhJbHl/s1600/toy1.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitwvGuxfGLiAkqsg0XB-2ekGVDNVdEM0jvqLx9FL_aeUuL-ZeYYDAtIN6GOunM5wGfJM7o3PCQMg4NYH65RN7U-Cd5Y8TtiaupI3GHpWQUHeoHb2RSJD4B2BP6z0IilC8grBbfmFOhJbHl/s1600/toy1.jpeg" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #f4cccc;"><i>image by our designed life</i></span></div>
Monicahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16824095580277555310noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5588840698273265064.post-29311786493485647052012-11-22T06:51:00.001-08:002012-11-22T06:51:31.323-08:00Happy ThanksgivingWhile most folks here in the US are celebrating Thanksgiving by feasting on way too much food its still important to remember why we are thankful in the first place. This last year has been a whirlwind of excitement and merriment with our upcoming bundle of joy growing daily, I didn't even mind waking up at 4:30 this morning thanks to her getting the hiccups. I am so thankful for being able to expand my family and look forward to meeting her in a few short months.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/ourdesignedlife/8208832274/in/photostream" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQES0U_JwX1_um6X2M-M7RqOEN4T8prnjEGhH2xEK9Inn5eKovcjSOdjkpO5eHZB-MUaFMbzCmobcAW34kCzM_sGufgnxONZbyNpjhO8JrZw_X2uYl5DiqCKEUz-hwKTIN0KfawIklaCCA/s1600/flower.jpeg" /></a></div>
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I am thankful for this guy right here, my loving husband. He is my rock, my best friend and my biggest supporter. I swear I don't think I can really do wrong in his eyes and I will forever love him for it. He always keeps me laughing, in fact, I shot this picture because he kept saying take a picture of me. I did and he simply said, there, now I was here! And because of the memory, this is one of my favorite pictures of him, just because he was there.</div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/ourdesignedlife/8208832130/in/photostream" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBVAZg6OyvZ1bMWkrnTF9QgkTBViQIM74PrMOa5JIcIFs5mQTQJ3JJDV_DljEKTPfgAGOlfzv7i19D6k_RtcF4h5Zrbs4ICHX8sfMxJx-jaTMwsAB3dTsjuwXi8BmX9vq4wYDhvN5GGt-Q/s1600/evan.jpeg" /></a></div>
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I am thankful we are able to live in our dream city. Ever since I can remember I always wanted to live in San Francisco and for the last year and a half the husband and I have made that dream come true. Its been a time of some serious ups and a few downs but we managed to stay strong and thrive in our little {big} city. This is the view of my neighborhood and golden gate park- our place is somewhere tucked into those buildings. We can't wait to be able to bring a little one into our busy world.</div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/ourdesignedlife/8208832804/in/photostream" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7KfhlSTQr_of-y8lDcppUCtjDXDKVqpXXONsVoVGI8yy5dw2IyFoEYCp2ez0kwlNir0IWhJifUvGn_3uS27mKm8lzc5T08lCppjW661VaIj6VdL9bGP_lakkqMLR1o4w4fnm5eUhmMeS-/s1600/sf.jpeg" /></a></div>
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And of course I can't forget my little Uli, our first "baby". She has been with us for almost 3 years now and I am thankful for such an awesome dog. We saved her from the shelter in L.A and haven't looked back since; spoiling her rotten. As you can see. She is the most patient and loving dog...she even says goodbye and snuggles people on command. She's pretty special.</div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/ourdesignedlife/8208833028/in/photostream" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMyNnj-JcxWim8cvqS6-vHUhyphenhyphenPLlfFz1j36oxPW_npcqHqS6SUdVanESh80Etkaw8cD2xbB3GHiXwbo6X5Pl1661RSPfUd5GHC-gtNB6eYie_8g9Qh-fLIISHQa3YDINd6ljZbnmNQ8a26/s1600/uli.jpeg" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #f4cccc;"><i>images by our designed life</i></span></div>
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I am also very thankful for having such a supporting family and loving friends that have been nothing but supportive throughout the years. So please, before you sit down to gorge yourself silly or perhaps join the masses in black Friday shopping, remember why <i>you</i> are thankful.</div>
Monicahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16824095580277555310noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5588840698273265064.post-10108737712167609212012-11-21T10:57:00.003-08:002012-11-21T10:57:44.835-08:00Our Thanksgiving menuAround the holidays it seems there is always one common question I get, "so what exactly do you eat?" Everyone seems to think that as a vegetarian or vegan we only eat grass and pasta. And I'll admit, I do enjoy a big bowl of noodles or a shot of wheat grass every now and then, but living a vegan life has been super easy to adjust to. And is very healthy too, I just got back from my doctor's visit to check up on the growing little one and she is doing just fab! So for those of you getting ready to start your cooking engines, might I suggest a few options that are not only meat free but are full of flavor you won't even miss the more traditional meats.<br />
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The husband and I are driving out to our family to gorge ourselves silly and today is my big food making day. On our menu we are feasting on Happy Herbivore's <a href="http://happyherbivore.com/recipe/hippie-loaf-gluten-free/" target="_blank">hippie loaf</a> with <a href="http://happyherbivore.com/recipe/vegan-brown-gravy/" target="_blank">gravy</a> for our main portion, its super tasty and full of good for you nutrition. I will also be preparing a <a href="http://ourdesignedlife.blogspot.com/2012/10/veganmofo-day-9-taquitos-and-kale-salad.html" target="_blank">raw kale salad</a> and <a href="http://www.savvyvegetarian.com/vegetarian-recipes/vegan-stuffing.php" target="_blank">vegan stuffing</a> which is quite possibly the most favorite side for me. My Mom is also preparing some baked yams and a medley of root veggies for us to nibble on too. And of course no Thanksgiving meal would be complete without a bit of dessert so this year I am preparing to make the <a href="http://ourdesignedlife.blogspot.com/2012/11/pumpkin-pie-oh-my.html" target="_blank">pumpkin pie</a> I mentioned yesterday as well as a <a href="http://vitasveganventures.wordpress.com/2012/06/11/vegan-sweet-potato-pie-recipe/#comment-305" target="_blank">sweet potato pie</a> for the husband. I've never had it before but sure am looking forward to giving it a try. And if you are prepping your own pies from scratch might I suggest <a href="http://www.marthastewart.com/336991/easy-pie-crust" target="_blank">my go to pie crust</a> from Martha Stewart. Its so good and so easy you will never want to spend money on prepared crusts again! Can you say food coma!?<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/ourdesignedlife/8205685417/in/photostream" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgr-dYzdpafylPEOj_-QOpIgueTh-bmPMwuW5MUO7ZgJombqnpU8_3-3lwknLHWaM2JUfVfy5RfiOPJX1ljtzh77RHqt_qWM8VRwIh9J_TWWHmSQWNBdMCJCMEOyXx93IUb3xyDSabGMTE5/s1600/thanksgiving.jpeg" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #f4cccc;"><i>hippie loaf via <a href="http://happyherbivore.com/recipe/hippie-loaf-gluten-free/" target="_blank">happy herbivore</a>, pie crust via <a href="http://www.marthastewart.com/336991/easy-pie-crust" target="_blank">martha stewart</a></i></span></div>
Monicahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16824095580277555310noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5588840698273265064.post-12363193822801985892012-11-20T05:00:00.000-08:002012-11-20T05:00:11.203-08:00Pumpkin pie oh my!While everyone is gearing up for all things Thanksgiving around here I've been busy collecting new recipes to try out and bring to our family functions. This year we are planning two days of all things food, thank goodness for maternity pants that are nice and stretchy! Last year I had luck with the food I brought for my family to try until we got to the dessert. I'm not sure if it was the recipe or the inferior ingredients I had used but the pumpkin pie was just so so, even to my standards of loving all things baked. So when I came across this recipe for a <a href="http://www.theppk.com/2012/11/vegan-pumpkin-pie/" target="_blank">vegan pumpkin pie</a> from <a href="http://www.theppk.com/" target="_blank">Post Punk Kitchen</a> I knew I had to give it a whirl. I mean, doesn't it just look fantastic? I will be in line with the masses today scouring the aisles for the best of the best ingredients to showcase my cooking skills, nothing like a little vegan pressure then having to impress over 20 people with a few tasty bits. Are you planning anything special in the kitchen this year or sticking to the standards? And if you need a few interesting ideas do check out <a href="http://www.theppk.com/category/recipe/holiday-thanksgiving/" target="_blank">PPK's Thanksgiving suggestions</a> there are some very lovely and mouthwatering recipes, I'm thinking of trying out those <a href="http://www.theppk.com/2012/01/scallion_mashed_potatoes/" target="_blank">scallion mashed potatoes</a> too!<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/ourdesignedlife/8201664212/in/photostream" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDS_NyOqOADswK8jDxKmMFOEVdbiLqfgCVQKPkExlDLV1gyLsU_ZLyMs37Y5IdGQKP73nKV3Av3mpWkdPo-yj1ZyhFZIAc3ZHNYLh2Meo6IvogHwvWFhnwnPAeTZ5qFxxoHV1askFnNnNm/s1600/pie.jpeg" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #f4cccc;"><i>image via <a href="http://www.theppk.com/2012/11/vegan-pumpkin-pie/" target="_blank">post punk kitchen</a></i></span></div>
Monicahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16824095580277555310noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5588840698273265064.post-33155383486968567792012-11-19T08:39:00.000-08:002012-11-19T08:39:27.619-08:00Spreading smilesI never like to show up places empty handed {I once brought a box of pastries to a birthday party at a dive bar!} and these small fall inspired gift boxes are the perfect size to bring a few smiles to your Thanksgiving table. You can find the <a href="http://sweetmuffinsuite.com/2012/11/gratitude-gift-box-free-download/" target="_blank">free download</a> thanks to <a href="http://sweetmuffinsuite.com/blog/" target="_blank">Sweet Muffin Suite</a> and stuff them with all your favorites for a few special people in your life. I'm going to print up a few and set them on the table for the kiddos to open up. Nothing big but its always nice to get a few treats don't you think?<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/ourdesignedlife/8199414523/in/photostream" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhk4DqiWXkUyXU2mnhep6w0VztMD2A9yKUBDA38cmeAiW-UJRWeO5P0-mxPLxkuZDFeeBjVTp_sAvN6g5JSe66Pu4G9ZuENoD5vhRBEDrnQBJHe8bLxK1nFuFc_oAbyLTQqI54bsleZO_2-/s1600/box.jpeg" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #f4cccc;"><i>free download and image via <a href="http://sweetmuffinsuite.com/2012/11/gratitude-gift-box-free-download/" target="_blank">sweet muffin suite</a></i></span></div>
Monicahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16824095580277555310noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5588840698273265064.post-65356742790251573812012-11-16T05:00:00.000-08:002012-11-16T05:00:15.515-08:00Celebrating my MomToday is my Mom's birthday and I wanted to give her a little shout out as she has always been an avid reader of Our designed life. Last week my Dad and brother were able to surprise her with a visit {my brother lives in Utah and she hasn't seen him in many moons} and a few days of family time together. We shopped for birthday's and baby and sat around the dinner table laughing and enjoying each others company. She has always been my biggest fan and with her grandbaby on the way she has been filled with even more love and excitement; the baby even has her own nursery in my old bedroom at my parents house! So please, join me in wishing my Mom a lovely birthday filled with many many more to come, because she is simply awesome.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/ourdesignedlife/8188306813/in/photostream" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoLKGVlKp3m4Z41Tar2_8KWI80WNiUVZX5ZFe3U4V0VGLxSPq1RAzTemZKOEywK_oh4JlyqG684hsPH_di8khIsws7D_e97cXc2s_K6dzIyijdyGXsv9c_l82Ocr6klf8a7obLiguB-b3Y/s1600/birthday.jpeg" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #f4cccc;"><i>image by <a href="http://www.ohhellofriendblog.com/2012/06/flower-fields.html" target="_blank">oh hello friend</a></i></span></div>
Monicahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16824095580277555310noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5588840698273265064.post-21352327198160952972012-11-15T09:36:00.000-08:002012-11-15T09:36:06.862-08:00Snacking on my favorite fruit Do you ever bite into a food and have instant memories? Yesterday my Mom came over to do a bit of crafting for the baby and she surprised me with about 2 dozen of these tasty morsels. It had never occurred to me that not everyone is familiar with guavas...the husband had only had it in a sugary juice form and we dug in to these for dessert and breakfast this morning. When I was a wee one my Grandpa had a tree in his back yard and every fall he would bring in handfuls for me to devour, in fact I have a very vivid memory of me sitting at my grandparents dining table swinging my dangling legs and just munching on these fragrant fruits covered in sugary goodness. One bite last night and it was like I was right back in their kitchen. There really is nothing like fresh homegrown fruit, and thankfully my grandparents house is still in the family so we get to enjoy their fresh guavas, avocados and cactus. A few years before my grandfather passed away he actually brought a small guava stick from his tree to grow in my parents yard and this year was the very first time we actually got fruit from it...they were delicious but not quite the same. So to have these what I lovingly referred to all night as OG's {original guavas} to snack on sure made me smile. And turns out baby loves them just as much, she was kicking away to all the sugar.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/ourdesignedlife/8187703147/in/photostream" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoyC03KmkLLCOjoBvEWzsa6hRfCCVcBY7F-ZptQoZPiAQxrNY0jLzSJVPIUELDG5TEIXCBm2NxRZXvjl3tycOdAoQryrLt_55eTZD3voaYAqs96MM2T5PlIqCHCUYuMUGZIR8V0iJ1FSuM/s1600/guava1.jpeg" /></a></div>
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<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3dXz52KNam4H9F3HIdTCfCGtFb_Aac5ts71ZpcznwM0YMBMBKL2OSGzWkr06t24Xn_d4-yxwlq5p9SAVfKFdr9wr9ZN66wzBwbQdLkVE_DMnSj94Mw6pgQfTl4r3922q0ySykEUpwspwd/s1600/guava2.jpeg" /></div>
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<span style="color: #f4cccc;"><i>images by our designed life</i></span></div>
Monicahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16824095580277555310noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5588840698273265064.post-76380647234055250742012-11-14T05:00:00.000-08:002012-11-14T05:00:11.569-08:00New cards!A few weeks ago I won a giveaway over on <a href="http://www.ohhellofriendblog.com/" target="_blank">Oh hello friend</a> for a set of letterpress business cards from <a href="http://www.metaldoilypress.com/" target="_blank">Metal Doily Press</a> and they have already arrived! I haven't had updated cards in pretty much forever so I was super excited to open up the box and take a peek. Monique wrapped them up with a sweet little bow and they came out quite nicely if I do say so myself. I showed them to the husband and the first thing he said was "they are so pink and girly, they are so you and your blog". I'd say we nailed it then. I can't wait to start handing them out, they feel super plush with nice and thick card stock and Monique is pretty fab herself with stellar customer service. For those living in Southern California she does participate in the craft show circuit so do check her and her lovelies out. For the rest of us, stop by her <a href="http://www.metaldoilypress.com/" target="_blank">site</a> for all things letterpress and show a bit of love.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/ourdesignedlife/8183724473/in/photostream" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNiUpDEVQ4CnNS9POHmlUQ9WYapbQpSzIrsKmuDxW1YjPkfx6hhkH8RTp6s2N56AcDpEUCKLE9YIV17rMlJquV2aIn1cNoDl21Gt792BU9iasX_lsGwJlyb4kKzLn7y6CM0ahs-XUKtsQu/s1600/card1.jpeg" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/ourdesignedlife/8183724395/in/photostream" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpX8nPP5SlZRjSFUA-RZtPL01EvSqttcrA9Oj1rVZNLTBf-TM_qm0TBpuOYaFlgKX9UMQsgXkK1PC5CzBC1ytODetm6G0Xdm1reLlHpB-rkYxAF_wappSQYyZL8-b2yF-a3Zq4V3yLncPf/s1600/card3.jpeg" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/ourdesignedlife/8183760720/in/photostream" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3lSlpuCZXj_b0AWg_7H-_zz6_Kv9kmymPGB0e3GOCjPN9khwD71nef_1upXckJiRiNCTqtq4vtwcf1xbqKJAkXRjIH0m5AX7gvNdN4Bf8Z68IKkovBb1_-H0sUyVgaqTzenjyDgsXpcux/s1600/card2.jpeg" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #f4cccc;"><i>images by our designed life</i></span></div>
Monicahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16824095580277555310noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5588840698273265064.post-6414621642546534752012-11-13T05:00:00.000-08:002012-11-13T05:00:00.887-08:00Beautiful artI could stare at this pink sky forever. There are something about collages that are simply stunning and this canyon from <a href="http://twincanyons.tumblr.com/" target="_blank">Twin Canyons</a> sure is a beauty. Makes me want to create something with my hands.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/ourdesignedlife/8180803119/in/photostream" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3qi_bx4YlBNF602sUHbRGtbwQ7QToXvGV70jQ2aywWyJ7xz-vYfO-9UCsJ6ixsd1fJZxYcpgP6CGgZEslBsCosdWwQXEfQmBXhGZ3ZzZjyVHQak6_LPtK0eBWkMyxLDTc3fpBtcXaGpmF/s1600/pink.jpeg" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #f4cccc;"><i>found via <a href="http://poprockblog.tumblr.com/post/30374094417/twincanyons-twin-canyons-a-collage-i-made-for" target="_blank">pop rock blog</a>, image by <a href="http://twincanyons.tumblr.com/" target="_blank">twin canyon</a></i></span></div>
Monicahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16824095580277555310noreply@blogger.com0