Bright Accents

Check out the new pops of color found at West Elm.

Also at West Elm - this piece reminds me of a recent craigslist find. 

I'm thinking a bright accent here and there would be a nice touch for our apartment this summer.  

What small changes do you make in decor throughout the seasons?

Practical Minimalism

My cousin, Rachel, recently started a blog documenting her journey to a less cluttered home.  Her goal is to get rid of one item every day and just like in real life, she's candid and funny.  You can read all about it here.

She's got me thinking:  I could get into a more simplified life.

While we are always in need of a good declutter in our apartment, we often overlook other areas where less goes a long way.

We stay busy and life passes us by.

Perhaps minimalism applies to more than just material possessions.  I'm inspired by Rachel's blog to look for ways to simplify our home and life.

Here's how I plan to get started:
1. Use less ingredients to make simpler meals.
2. Don't wash clothes as a default to folding.
3. Request an end to junk-mail that ends up in the trash.
4. Sit down and relax.  Enjoy moments of free-time.
5. Once in a while, pick up the phone.  Have a real conversation.
6. Save money.  Go outside and have fun for free.

How do you embrace practical minimalism in your everyday?

Promises

We're slowly learning to ask for wisdom and listen for guidance.  It takes humility to realize that He knows better than me.  It takes discernment to recognize His voice over the one in my head.  It takes faith to move in the direction He is calling me. It sure is a slow process. 

I'm so grateful that His promises are new every morning. 

Have a lovely morning (and weekend), my friends. 

In Print

We love Tennessee.

I recently wrote an article for Birmingham Magazine detailing a road trip through this beautiful state.  

It's published in the July issue and you may view it here. 

*image via Poppy and Pinecone

Summer Book Club

As you know, I am a bookworm.

To this day, my cousin makes fun of me for climbing up our front yard tree for an afternoon read when she visited us over the summer. (Wait. She teases me for crocheting in that tree. Fortunately, I don't recall it quite that way, so let's just say I was reading.  Selective memory is a wonderful gift).

While living in Chattanooga, I would make a quick drive up the mountain and sit on the wall at Signal Point, engrossed in the latest read. The view beyond my book was breathtaking and the gentle breeze inspired me to stay a while.

Now, I'll snuggle up on the couch, the porch or next to my honey with eager eyes, scanning the page with anticipation for what happens next.

Ahhh, I still love a good book.

This summer I joined a book club small group through our church.  A group of women, gathered over good food and chatting the night away about plot, characters and life application is just what this bookworm needs. 

First up, we are reading Redeeming Love by Francine Rivers.  I must admit, I finished it a tad early and cried myself to sleep - an absolutely beautiful story!

Do you have any suggestions for our next book?  I recently enjoyed The Help by Kathryn Stockett and can't wait for the movie in August.

Have a great weekend and a happy 4th!

*images: a view I'd love to read to; stacked schoolgirl books; our current read