13 on Thursday

I'm trying to gradually ease back into the blogging world, taking a break to get things situated with the new blog have made me fall off the proverbial wagon! Things have been busy and cold here! So I'm going to play a bit of catch up here with this 13 on Thursday post.

1. I know our temperatures and conditions are nothing compared to where some of you live but I'm cold and over the winter! We've had sleet, freezing rain, no sunshine and snow over the last week. I don't mind the cold so much as the general dreariness. I'm ready for Spring.
2. My birthday is 38 days away. Wow, that puts things in perspective! I've updated my 30 before 30 list here so you can see my progress. I better get cracking!

3. There are so many great Valentine's Day ideas out in the blogosphere. I believe love + romance should be celebrated year round but I admit the abundence of pink, red and white do make my heart flutter a bit. Here are three of my faves: 1, 2, 3
4. CSNstores generously gave me a credit to spend and used it on  a Breville Juicer. I'd like to learn more about healthy juices to whip up, especially with veggies. Do you have any favorite recipes and/or books for me to check out?

5. As a child I was an avid reader. I remember no matter where I went I always had a book with me. I loved Sweet Valley Twins and Sweet Valley High. I think I still have a box or two filled with my collection of the series in my parents' attic. Did you read Fracine Pascal's books too? An adult version of the beloved books is in the works and will be released on March 29th. I can't wait to read Sweet Valley Confidential and see what the girls are up to these days.
6. Last week I stumbled unto a beauty must have: Sally Hansen's Complete Salon Manicure. It was on a display at the drug store and I nonchalantly checked out it and fell in love. I purchased "Shall We Dance" and the hue is barely noticeable on my nails but it is just nude enough to give me a manicured look. The brush is really unique and works well and the polish dries really fast. Best part it leaves your nails uber shiny, just like from the salon. Love it! Get some now!
7. Did you know there is an official "Random Acts of Kindness Week?" I just learned of it and thought I'd share. Next week is RAK Week and if you visit the Random Acts of Kindness Foundation's website you'll find lots of ideas on how to participate. I'm pretty excited about it!

8. I'm really loving stripes for spring. I'll take one of these and one of these too please. :-)
9. I've been designing and designing lately and putting my graphic design degree to use. Wedding invitations, shower invitations, illustrations, etc. It has been quite fun!
10. This week I spent some time going through old photos for a decor project I'm working on. This just reiterated my love for photography. So many moments are captured in time for generations to come--what a great art form!
11. Getting thank you notes in the mail is the best! I need to get better about sending them and sending them for every little thing. You cannot say "thank you" enough.

12. I'm love, love, loving all of the nude colors at the award shows these days. Some of my faves are above. I don't think I could pull off so little color though, since I'm pale. Eek!
13. This year's Superbowl was not nearly as fun for me as last years. ;-) But I did enjoy the Darth Vador commercial. Hilarious! What was your favorite commercial?

So what is new with you my friends? I've missed you!
xo,
Lindsey

13 on Thursday: I'm Back!

Happy 2011 everyone!
I cannot believe it has been almost a month since I've blogged. This is the longest I've gone without blogging since 2008! I thought this would be a perfect time to do a "13 on Thursday" to play a bit of catch-up.

{ a photo of one of the beautiful brides I worked with recently }

1. Our Christmas was amazing. We spent lots of time with family, ate amazing foods and generally felt blessed by all around us. Didn't hurt that we were spoiled rotten either! How was your holiday?
2. Since we last "chatted" I've kept very busy by taking photos of some amazing people. We shot a wedding on New Year's Eve that was amazing and another great one last week too. This weekend will be yet another nuptial photoshoot. It has been a blast and I feel so blessed to have such wonderful clients.
3. Another reason for my absence here is that my blog will undergoing a major makeover and revamp in content over the next weeks. I'm just so excited about it, I want to save all of my posts until then. I sure hope you'll love it as much as I do.
4. It has been really cold here (in Louisiana's terms at least--in the 20s!) and I've been enjoying it a bit. Having an excuse to drink Starbucks frequently, snuggle up under two comforters and spend time editing indoors without feeling guilty is great!
5. Having said that, I am a bit excited for Spring too. So many amazing events will take place over the coming months--I'm ready to soak it all in.
6. I got a new mac a few weeks ago and I'm loving it. My office is undergoing some decor additions and its sleek shape fits right in. I can't wait to complete the space so I can share it with you. Right now I'm looking at modern rugs to finish off the look.
7. Lately I've been on a Pandora kick while editing in the office. What is your favorite station?
8. On a similar note, I need to update my itunes with some new sounds. Any favorite tunes to share?
9. I have found the perfect chocolate chip recipe! World's best! I'll share it soon--promise.
10. Part of my Matron of Honor duties for my sister is to design/choose a design for her invitations. I'm currently exploring letterpress designs, they are all so pretty. Do you have a favorite letterpress designer?
11. I'm kind of sad that as adults we don't exchange Valentine cards the way we did in elementary school. I totally want to design + send out cute cards. Something about the red, pink and white hues make me feel all warm and fuzzy.
12. I came across this on the web today: Kids Trying to Figure Out 80s technology. It is pretty funny since that really doesn't seem that long ago. Also interesting: Things Kids Born in 2011 Will Never Know.  Feeling old yet? I kind of am!
13. I'm not going to finish every thing on my 30 Before 30 List. I've made great headway and am optimistic I'll finish more but I'm trying to be realistic. I did however do many things NOT on the list so that counts for something right? To be honest I'm trying to distract myself from the fact I'll be the big 3-0 soon. Eek!

So that is a bit of what's going on with me. Until the blog redesign is complete I may be a bit scarce but I'll pop in. Hope you guys will stick around and be patient with me!

xo,
Lindsey

13 on Thursday--Monday Edition

What can I say? The holidays have kept me really busy. I feel like I am back on track a bit now. I thought I'd dive right in with a 13 on Thursday...yes, yes I know it's Monday. Let's just overlook that shall we?

1. My fingers are so cold right now. I really wish there were some sort of very thin, easy to type in gloves or something. Brrrrr!
2. This weekend I wrapped up all of our Christmas gifts (to give). I only have 2 more gifts to buy. It feels great to be so close to being done shopping. It sure has made for a less stressful holiday. How's your holiday shopping going?
3. Today on the BSP we are giving away a gift card to CSNstores. At times like this I wish I could win! I spent a large amount of time browsing their bedroom furniture while "researching" for the giveaway. After the new year I'm redecorating our master bedroom.
4. I really wish Etsy offered Gift Cards, that's what I'd want for Christmas. I have a wish list of Etsy items a mile long.

5. My mom bought hubby and I an Elf on The Shelf a few years ago. Even though we don't have kids we have totally been having a blast with our elf, Rudy, this year. We've shared so many laughs because of this little elf!
6. These macro photos of snowflakes are so pretty! Even the simplest things can be beautiful when viewed with a thankful heart.
7. This weekend I picked up a Polaroid 600 Land Camera at an estate sale. I can't wait to get film for it. Anyone have experience with The Impossible Project? Should I buy from them or purchase discontinued film?

8. Ninjabread men: awesome! My hubby would love it if I made him these.

9. Probably no surprise but our Christmas tree is decorated in a gingerbread + peppermint theme. So I wrap our presents in kraft paper and peppermint embellishments. These packages are so pretty though, I want to change my entire theme!

10. If I had the room (and the funds) I'd purchase this nativity set in a heartbeat. It is adorable!

11. One word: yum!
12. I flunked out of SFS this time around. But wowee, my classmates have taken some amazing photos.
13. This week I plan on drinking lots of warm beverages, finishing up the last of the Christmas photo orders, baking chocolate chip cookies and spending time with friends + family. What are your plans?
    

13 on Thursday--Tuesday Edition

Since we'll all no doubt be lounging about with full bellies on this Thanksgiving Thursday, I decided to keep my 13 on Thursday going by posting early. Sound good?

Great, here we go!

1. Did you see the news over on The Bright Side Project? It is something we've been working on for a while and I'm very excited. Not to mention, I feel very blessed for continued opportunities.
2. I've been editing, editing and well editing images for days. I love, love, love my job but I will admit it will be nice to step away from my computer for a few days this week.
3. Apparently, my Starbucks restraint is gone. Since my first pumpkin spice latte, I've been a bit hooked on yummy holiday drinks. I've tried the Caramel Brûlée and Peppermint Mocha. Caramel Brûlée is currently tied for first place with PS. Next on the "to try" list: Salted Caramel Hot Chocolate. Yum!
4. Every year, Thanksgiving night brings one of many great traditions...the first "A Christmas Story" viewing of the season. I cannot wait! 
5. Another tradition (that sometimes gets delayed) is buying our Christmas tree on T-day. This year I think it will actually happen so that we can maximize our pine enjoyment. I cannot wait!
6. I'm mulling over a business decision with the hubby. Nothing I can reveal until a decision is made but prayers are welcome.
7. I photographed the most gorgeous bride (bridal portraits) and I can't wait to share her photos after the wedding--it is so hard not to show everyone!
8. The high temp on Thanksgiving day will be 82 degrees here--not very festive feeling. Wanna know the high for the very next day? 52 degrees!?!? 

9. Have you seen this year's Neiman Marcus Christmas Book (catalog)? The illustrations inside the first few pages + cover are beautiful and I love looking at their over the top gifts. Can you imagine an edible gingerbread playhouse from Dylan's Candy Bar under your tree? 
10. My google reader has 224 unread posts as of now. I think I may need to do a little clean up so I can manage better. What are your absolutely "must reads?"
11. I'm super sad that the Waterfalls cardigan I love at Anthro became "unavailable" before I could order it. :-( I almost shed a tear.
12. Last weekend the hubby and I put together two shoeboxes for Operation Christmas Child. Please visit their site for more info, if you'd like to help out too. It is also a fun thing to have kiddos help you with.
13. I've been staring at this #13 for far too long without a clue as to what to close with. I think I'll just make this last point to say "hope you are having a great holiday week!"

If you are playing along, leave your 13 on Thursday link in the comments so I can take a peek!

13 on Thursday

Been a busy week here as you can see from the lack of posts. I love this time of year...staying busy with fun projects. Here I go with another 13 on Thursday...

1. My little pup had to have a procedure done on Monday and he had to be put under. I was a nervous mommy but everything went well, he's doing great and he's extra cuddly. 
2. I received my copy of Anthology magazine last weekend and I'm saving it for after my shoots this weekend. I want to cuddle up under a bunch of blankets, flip through the pages and sip on a warm beverage.
3. Speaking of warm beverages...I finally had a Pumpkin Spice Latte. Just as good as I remember and now I am afraid I'm hooked. What's your favorite holiday beverage from the 'Bucks.
4. This weekend I have one bridal shoot, four family shoots and a small wedding to photograph. It will be busy but fun too--I love my clients!
5. This Thanksgiving I am responsible for a sweet potato dish. I am thinking of keeping it simple and making this one.  Do you have any sweet potato recommendations?

6. Another great surprise in my mailbox this week: my copy of "An Awesome Book of Thanks" by Dallas Clayton. I love, love, love this books!
7. Wish so many letters weren't out of stock. I'd like to spell out "eat" in my kitchen.
8. So sad I didn't purchase these cookie cutters before they sold out. I may have to hunt some down on ebay.
9. One of my SFS classmates put together a great series: 31 Days to Better Photos. I highly recommend it if you are looking to improve your photography skills.
10. I'm soooo behind on laundry this week. Too much photo editing, too little washing. I'll be playing catch up all day today. 
11. I went to NY&Co to buy the skirt I talked about last week...I wasn't crazy about the color in person. I did however (thanks to some coupons my mom had) purchase three sweaters, a shirt, a skinny belt and a necklace for $75! Pretty amazing, made going to the mall worth it.
12. I have to admit that I can't wait for "Black Friday" to be behind us just so I can stop hearing about it. Seems retailers are really pushing it this year and it is kind of annoying.
13. We watched Meet the Fockers over the weekend...I'm really excited to see Little Fockers. Looks hilarious! 

What's new with you this week? Are you blogging a 13 on Thursday?

13 on Thursday

Time again for another 13 on Thursday.
Sure hoping you guys are having a great week!

1. I've crossed two things off my 30 before 30 list in the last week. The first being: plant a lemon tree in our yard. My parents gifted us with the tree as an anniversary gift (this year was fruit + flowers).

2. Going to a concert was the second thing I crossed off. Last night along with Mikey and my parents I attended one of the best concerts I've ever been to. The performer was none other than Sir Elton John. He played many of his greatest hits and ended with "Your Song" which is one of my faves. He played for over three hours straight without an intermission. He stepped off the stage for one song and Leon Russell kept things going. It was such a great, great show and I'm glad to have seen him live.
3. This weekend I have a bridal shoot and three family sessions. I'm crossing my fingers the weather cooperates. We've had perfect weather the last week or so and I hope it holds out!
4. Can you believe there are 44 days until Christmas?!? This year has flown by! I'm pretty proud of myself for having four gifts purchased already. I'm not a true "last minute" shopper as I am never shopping two days before Christmas or anything but this is a good head start for me.

5. We planted pansies, kale and snapdragons in our front yard last weekend. Inside the fall decor came out of the closet. I have a lot of acorn decor for this time of year. I love fall!
6. On Tuesday I tried my hand at haricots verts. The fresh green beans were so crisp and flavorful. And the French language made me feel très chic on a humble week night.
7. An update for all of you: I STILL haven't sipped a Pumpkin Spice Latte. I had a Pumpkin Spice Frapuccino but not a latte. Maybe this weekend will be the weekend.

8. This time of year always makes me crave NYC. A couple years ago my family and I spent Thanksgiving in Pennsylvania and NY. It is my favorite vacation to date and the cooler southern temps make me really miss the beauty of the northeast this time of year.
9. I'm thinking I'm going to go with 6 weeks of cookies for SFS. I'm going to bake my first batch tomorrow since my in-laws will be in town and they can help us eat therm.

10. I know I've been talking about buying a pair of TOMS for ages but I've always put it off. But the new gilded herringbone style may be just the pair I've been waiting for.
11. Did you know Jamba Juice makes smoothie kits so you can blend drinks up a home? I bought one at Target earlier in the week. I'll let you know how it goes.
12. All the holiday dinnerware I've seen before has been too traditional or just plain tacky. I'd like to pair the pretty ones from Crate & Barrel with my white china.
13. Have you see the trailer for this film? Not sure how I feel about it. What do you think?

( click images for sources ) 

If you did a 13 on Thursday please share in the comments. I'd love to read. One more day til the weekend!

13 on Thursday

It's time again for another 13 random tidbits. Hope you guys are having a great week! I STILL can't believe it is Thursday already. My sister and her fiance stayed in town to visit on Monday and it has throw me off--today feels like Wednesday to me. But it is great that is not because that means one day closer to the weekend!

1. We are expecting chilly (for Louisiana) temperatures for at least the next week. During the day we'll see mid 60s and low 40s at night. So today I'm doing what the majority of Southern Louisiana women are doing: making a gumbo!
2. My hubby ran a 5K on Saturday and got first place! I am so, so proud of him! This is deserving of exclamation points right!?!?!
3. I always like as much daylight as I can get but I'm pretty excited to "gain" an extra hour this Saturday. I'm looking on the bright side and taking this ritual as a sign of the holiday fun around the corner.
4. Anyone else feel that Mondo was robbed? I was never a Gretchen fan and her final collection on Project Runway did not impress me. Can't wait to see what Mondo comes up with in the future.
5. Can't believe I'm admitting this but hubby and I went see Jackass 3D last week--everyone needs a good laugh sometimes right!? Well take a bit of advice from me: Skip it--it was sooooo gross!

6. When my sister + fiance were in town, my mom and I helped them with their wedding registry. It was as much fun as when hubby and I did it 4 years ago! My favorite part was helping them pick out china. There are so many pretty patterns, I love to mix and match them. I'll share her pattern soon.
7. Every few months, I feel the need to update my itunes with some new music. Today's purchase included: Kings of Leon, Bruno Mars and Jack Johnson. Have any tune suggestions for me?
8. I really, really, really want this skirt. It is so chic with the gray tights!

9. In other fashion news, I have to confess I'm super jealous of you guys that live near an H&M. Their collaboration with Lanvin is amazing and affordable! 
10. Have you checked out Ez's latest creation:Gifted? SWOON!
11. I love this time of year as catalogs start filling my mailbox--you can always find great inspiration in these free tomes. 
12. Speaking of mail: I can't wait til Anthology & Holiday with Matthew Mead arrive. Have you ordered copies?
13. There are so many beautiful calendars already out for 2011. Have you picked yours yet? I can't narrow it down...I'm thinking of making my own. Thoughts?

Want to play along with 13 on Thursday? Leave your link in the comments--I'd love to read!

13 on Thursday

I'm totally piggybacking off of my friend Cyndi. I love her 13 on Thursdays and have looked forward to them since she started the series. So because imitation is the sincerest form of flattery I've decided to jump aboard. So here we go...

1. Have you been watching Project Runway this season? Who are you pulling for? I'm a member of "Team Mondo" and I'm hoping he wins tonight. His use of patterns just makes me happy.
2. I am totally hooked on apples this fall (and every fall really). Honeycrisp and Pink Ladies are my favorites. I bought the juiciest, yummiest Honeycrisps at Fresh Market yesterday but was shocked at the price--4 apples cost me over $9, yowza! At least they are healthy and oh so good.
3. I haven't had one single Starbucks Pumpkin Spice Latte yet. This has got to be some sort of record for me. To make it even more shocking we had several weeks of awesome fall weather and I still didn't indulge. It has been warm (okay hot) however for a couple weeks so I'm promising myself on the first cool day I'm heading over to 'bucks to grab my favorite drink.
4. We went shopping for my sister's wedding dress and she found the most amazing dress. And did I mention she is gorgeous!? I'm so excited for her and can't wait to share more wedding details with you guys later on. (P.S. I've always want to commission Brooklit to do a wedding dress drawing for me.)
5. Also on the wedding front, we've narrowed down bridesmaids dresses and I'm actually loving the options. She has a few favorites from The Dessy Group (one of my new sponsors) to decide between and I'd honestly be happy with any of them. No crazy styles a la "27 Dresses."
6. In even more wedding news my buddy Krista from The BSP got engaged yesterday and I'm so incredibly happy for her. Drop by and leave her some love here. She is such an incredible writer, I tear up on her blog regularly--just warning you!
7. I tried carving a pumpkin for the first time in a looooong time on Sunday. It was an epic failure. Having taken sculpture classes in college I thought I'd be above beginner level--wrong. The Martha Stewart template I downloaded was a total bust. On the bright side, I used this recipe (which I edited a lot) to make some yummy roasted pumpkins seeds albeit a bit pricey pumpkin seeds.
8. I was thinking of offering Christmas cards featuring these photos. Yay or nay?
9. I love the fall but for some reason this year I am eager for Christmastime to arrive. It is my favorite time of year and for some reason I'm even more excited for it to arrive.
10. Looking forward to sharing really fun Halloween treat for my sweetie. I'll share pics tomorrow.
11. I think I picked out a color to paint our hallway (which would be another item off the list). Do you think gray is too dark for a hallway? I plan to line the wall with old, black and white family photos.
12. Are you dressing up for Halloween? I got a funky little hat that is kind of witchlike (similar to this)l. I also bought some funny gloves and orange + black striped tights that I think I'll pair with a solid black skirt + top just to be festive. 
13. What's your favorite Halloween candy? This year I only bought candy I didn't like for trick-or-treaters and I have not eaten one.single.piece. Quite the caloric victory! :-)

So this has been the first 13 on Thursday.
Wanna play? I'd love to read yours...post a link in the comments if you do.