oh, sweet joy!

sponsor highlight + giveaway: cotton + wood

2012-02-29T00:05:00.034-07:00

((make sure to check out the post below to see if you won any of the previous few giveaways!))

Today, I get to brag about one of my veteran sponsors, cotton + wood.

This shop is run by Rebecca, who honestly is just a bundle of sunshine. She's a long time sponsor and I'm always privileged to have her as part of the Oh, Sweet Joy! family. She carries colorful fabric and handmade items that are beautifully unique and her style. Here's a little blurb from her about the inspiration behind her shop!

" Ever since being the worst failure in the history of Junior High Home Ec, I've wanted to learn to sew. I started taking classes at a cute little shop in Chicago a little over a year ago. That shop started my obsession with fabric. Realizing that I live in a "creative desert" [surrounded by corn fields, steel mills, and Lake Michigan], I dreamt of a local, hometown store that offered beautiful fabric and paper. Not planning to go into debt just yet, I decided to open up Cotton+Wood and grow my fabric shop online and expand to a brick and mortar in the future. "

Today, Rebecca is generously giving away this gorgeous coin purse AND your color choice of a flower pin! You can also use the code OHSWEETJOY for 15% off anything in her shop. Get ta shoppin', y'all!

((AND))

You can check out more from Cotton + Wood at the following:

twitter // Facebook // shop // blog

((mandatory entry))

Visit cotton + wood and tell me your favorite item!

To earn extra entries:

1. follow the Oh, Sweet Joy! blog via Google Friend Connect (one entry).

2. Follow @ohsweetjoy and @cotton_wood on twitter.

3. tweet/facebook/blog about this giveaway (one entry).

Feel free to use this:

I just entered to win some handmade goodies from

@cotton_wood on @ohsweetjoy's blog! http://tinyurl.com/2ddk985\

love.

winners & chicken dinners

2012-02-29T00:00:00.008-07:00

The winner of the Judy Kaufman print is:

The winner of the MaddynBella, Honey & Thread, All Things Loved GROUP giveaway is:

The winner of the Katy Loves (2 months of) ad space & button design is:

Ladies, congratulations! Please email me and I will get you connected with your designated shop owner/blogger. Thanks!

love.

geek chic

2012-02-28T00:00:00.004-07:00

This is probably one of the five times I've ever worn lipstick. Actually, five might be too generous.

Statement Necklace: Banana Republic

Crochet Tank, Blazer: Anthropologie

((similar tank found here))

Oversized Clutch: tutorial here

Watch: Fossil

Skinny Jeans: Paige Denim

flats: Kimchi Blue ((similar ones here))

I'm not sure I'll ever get over the "geek chic" look. The whole borrowed from the boys idea can be done with such a classic & ((yet still)) feminine feel. This outfit needed a little spot of color & I'd say this clutch did the trick, no?

love.

photos courtesy of Jessica Povenmire.

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now on blog lovin!

2012-02-27T16:29:00.002-07:00

Follow my blog with Bloglovin

((handmade monday)) DIY velvet bow headband

2012-02-27T08:47:00.002-07:00

Hi there! I hope everyone had a lovely weekend. We had some gorrrrrgeous spring-like weather on Saturday and we loved every second of it. I'm talking above 60 degrees and SO sunny. The gorgeous day got me inspired to make this colorful headband, so let's make one together shall we?

Here's what you'll need for your headband:

velvet ribbon

glue gun

scissors

bobbin (if sewing)

elastic (I ended up switching to thin & round elastic, photographed at the end)

Sewing machine OR needle & thread

*You have the option of glue-gunning the entire project or sewing the ends. Up to you! So if you have a sewing machine & feel confident with it, get it all set up with a matching bobbin & read ahead*

Step 1:

Cut your ribbon into four sections. You'll need one of each of the following measurements.

3 inches, 5 inches, 7 inches, 18-20 inches depending on how large your head is.

Step 2:

Take your two middle-sized pieces (5 & 7 inches) and slightly overlap the ends. Using your glue gun, glue them together.

Step 3:

Stack the 5 inch piece onto your 7 inch piece. Make sure they are centered and glue them together. I also glued the insides of the loops so that they laid flat.

Step 4:

Figure out where, on your headband (the longest piece), you want your bow. I put mine off to the side. Mark on the bottom of your long piece where you want it & go ahead and place your bow there. Wrap the smallest piece of ribbon around the middle of all the pieces and secure with the glue gun.

You'll have something like this.

Step 5:

At this point, I tied a 6 inch piece of thin elastic into a knot, to make it a circle.

Fold over the edge of one side of the ribbon and slip the elastic in. Sew a stitch (or glue) and repeat on the other side.

You're done!

Slip that cutie pie on and feel all retro and schtuff ;)

love.

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((last call for march sponsors!))

2012-02-25T16:36:00.002-07:00

Email me for details & rates :) I'd love to have you!

love.

today...

2012-02-23T10:27:00.002-07:00

Today, I'll be packaging up orders from the blog sale.

Today, I'll be sipping a cup of coffee and enjoying the time to slow down a bit.

Today, I'll be taking a quick break to Cross-Country Ski on last night's fresh powder.

Today, I'll be making this dress in a gorgeous teal-ish color for a June wedding.

Today, I'll be soaking up a "day off," while listening to oldies & sewing.

Also? We're making this for dinner. Hallelujah, Praise Him.

Source: ziplist.com via Kim on Pinterest

Tell me, what are you doing today?

love.

cheap bourbon whiskey & pearl snap shirts

2012-02-22T00:00:00.002-07:00

((are two things that stay the same))

Well, hey there! Happy Wednesday to you.

Earrings: Anthropologie

Bronze Leaf Necklace: C/O Simply Livly

Belt: I don't Remember. It's ancient.

Chambray Pearl Snap: thrifted (from Savers) & tailored

Skirt: Lauren Conrad for Kohl's. Similar one here.

Watch: Fossil

Boots: MIA

Hobo Clutch: Nordstrom

Day Three Dirty Hair: Homemade ;)

I wanted to recreate this look by the beautiful Sydney of The Daybook Blog. I needed to make it a little less girly, so I added some boots and a chambray top. Yes, I'm crazy for being bare-legged when there is snow on the ground. I'm so anxious for Spring!

For the record, I'm obsessed with these hair ties.

love.

photos courtesy of Jessica Povenmire.

(( song lyrics in title courtesy of Jason Boland & The Stragglers. 10 cool points if you knew that already. ))

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sponsor highlight + giveaway: katy loves blog

2012-02-21T00:00:00.005-07:00

Winners for the current outstanding giveaways will be announced shortly!

---

One of my wonderful sponsors is Katy of the Katy Loves blog. She is beautiful, sweet, inspiring, and it all shines through her blog effortlessly. She runs her blog and does some graphic design, as well. ((here is some work she's done recently!))

Here's a little from Katy, herself, about the inspiration behind her blog:

I started my blog to have a place to share my life. The little things that may seem so little in the moment, but really make life wonderful. I love so many things and my blog is the place to share every piece of that. I write about my love for my husband, family, music, photography, fashion, DIY, our recent move to North Carolina and my relationship with the Lord. I share my heart often in hopes that it will somehow bless others as well. I love my little corner of the web and hope you'll stop by and say hello!

---

Today, Katy is giving away a FREE large ad spot on her blog AND a custom ad design. Score!

Make sure you pop on over to her blog and check it out. You can also find more from her here:

Blog // Twitter // Facebook // Blog Lovin'

Mandatory Entry

Tell us what you'd like to advertise (shop or blog) and why.

To earn extra entries:

1. follow the Oh, Sweet Joy! blog via Google Friend Connect (one entry).

2. Follow @ohsweetjoy and @katylove on twitter.

3. tweet/facebook/blog about this giveaway (one entry).

Feel free to use this:

I just entered to win a great giveaway from @ohsweetjoy and @katylove! http://tinyurl.com/2ddk985

love.

((handmade monday)) greetings + confetti

2012-02-20T00:00:00.001-07:00

Isn't stationery fun? Who doesn't like to receive some snail mail every now & again?

Today's handmade monday DIY project combines two of my favorite things: confetti & stationery. Enjoy!

Here's what you'll need

thread

sewing machine

fun paper or blank paper & colored pencils to make confetti

glitter

a printer

hole punch

sandwich bags

1. Create two columns in Word and create whatever text you'd like.

Print them out when you're finished.

2. Cut out your "cards" in miscellaneous shapes. Feel free to use fun scissors that create a pattern around the edge.

3. If you so choose, you can sew some designs onto the paper.

4. Cut out ziplock bags (you can usually do two cards per baggy) & stitch up the long edge, leaving the top open.

5. Stick card inside the bag & fill with desired confetti.

6. Stitch up the top.

7. Send to a loved one :)

love.

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call for march sponsors

2012-02-18T00:00:00.020-07:00

Want to grow your readership on your blog?

Are you hoping for more views & sales of your handmade products?

Need a boost to get your indie biz or new blog started?

If you've been putting off advertising for your blog & shop, now's your chance to jump to it! Now is the perfect time to partner with the Oh, Sweet Joy! blog. Spots are filling up quickly, so shoot me an email & let's chat :)

Let's grow your handmade business or blog together, shall we?

love.

favorite things friday

2012-02-17T00:00:00.005-07:00

1. A pop of color added to an outfit with a Nest of Posies Felt Posie Cluster on a cold week.

((this one is also perfection))

2. Turning a Ball Jar into a coffee cup, thanks to my new Cuppow. Seriously, y'all. This thing is awesome!

3. Chase buying me daffodils AND doing the dishes for Valentine's Day.

4. A cute little print from Elise Joy on our "bar." It has a coffee mug saying "I'll drink to that." & is one of my favorite things around our home.

5. A chalkboard updated with one of our favorite verses. ((ephesians 1:11))

My favorite things this week are simple and wonderful at the very same time. :) Happy weekend, friends! Soak up the little things.

love.

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linking up here:

((surprise)) shop my closet blog sale!

2012-02-16T19:16:00.000-07:00

In case you missed the sneaky announcements on Facebook & twitter, there's a blog sale going on! Things are going quickly, but have fun shopping!

Click here to get shopping.

love.

lumberjack, meet anthropologie.

2012-02-16T00:00:00.003-07:00

Don't mind the sass. I can't help it. When I stand like this, Chase always says,

"Once a cheerleader, always a cheerleader."

Flannel - Target

Dress - Anthropologie

Tights - Hue

Boots - Steve Madden

It's been SO cold and snowy here in Boulder lately. I've had to layer up for warmth AND for the sake of wardrobe versatility. I love dressing down dresses by layering a button down on top and tied at the waist. Fun fact about this dress: Malia Obama wore it in their Christmas card :) How fun is that?

love.

photos courtesy of Jessica Povenmire.

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GROUP sponsor highlight + giveaway: honey & thread, all things loved blog, maddy n bella

2012-02-15T00:00:00.004-07:00

The winner of the Hollie Rogue "xo" typewriter key necklace is The Posh Daisy, who said:

Email me (ohsweetjoyATgmailDOTcom) with your shipping information and I'll send it along!

Also, we changed up the order of outfit & giveaway posts. You have a TINY amount of time to enter last week's giveaway, so hop on over , do that real quick, and come on back. Don't worry. We'll wait on you.

---

Honey & Thread is a sweet blog and an etsy shop, all in one! You'll find marriage adventures, thrift finds, and some cute prints to snatch up.

Today, you have the opportunity to win a $20 shop credit!

That's a lot of prints you can win. You can also use the code OHSWEETJOY20 for 20% off your purchase.

FInd more from Honey & Thread at the following places:

blog :: twitter :: shop

---

Next up, we have an Oh, Sweet Joy! blog sponsor veteran, Maddy N Bella. Courtney is such a sweetheart and creates such gorgeous jewelry! It's always an honor to feature her.

Today, she's offering up this amazing bracelet! GOSH, I see so much layering potential in this piece. It's so pretty! You can also score 15% off her shop by using the code MADDYNBELLA15.

Find more from Courtney at the following links:

facebook :: shop :: twitter

---

A brand new sponsor of mine, All Things Loved, is a blog that touches on a little bit of everything! You'll find giveaways, handmade inspiration, fashion, and motherhood. Eleanor has such an inspiring place on the web.

She also has a handmade shop, which is where her giveaway item comes from! She sells cozy scarves and decor. Today, she's giving away this chunky knit scarf. You can also use the code OHFREESHIP for free shipping through February 17th in her shop.

---

To enter this GROUP giveaway, simply tell me something positive about your day :)

To earn extra entries:

1. visit each shop/blog and tell me what your favorite items are from at least ONE of the shops

(one entry).

honey & thread * maddy n bella *all things loved/seam & fold

2. follow the Oh, Sweet Joy! blog via Google Friend Connect (one entry).

3. Follow @ohsweetjoy on twitter.

4. tweet/facebook/blog about this giveaway (one entry).

Feel free to use this:

Group Giveaway on @ohsweetjoy's blog! (Featuring @maddynbella, @honeyandthread, & All Things Loved blog!) http://tinyurl.com/2ddk985

love.

((guest post)) hand-carved stamps...from APPLES!

2012-02-14T00:00:00.005-07:00

Happy Valentine's Day, y'all! You get a bonus Valentine's themed tutorial this week brought to you by sweet Erika from Rouge & Whimsy!

---

Hi, I'm Erika from the blog and shop Rouge & Whimsy.

I love the almost rustic look of a hand-carved stamps. I've seen quite a few cute tutorials on Pinterest , but most require you get a block to carve a stamp from.

I have an even cheaper and easier way to make a handmade stamp using things you have in your kitchen right now... like a potato or apple.

Gather your supplies: knife, apple or potato, stamp pad, paper -- carve out shapes -- stamp onto paper.

It's super easy &fun! and of course, when you're done, you can always eat your remaining stamp supplies... I prefer mine with cheese. ;)

Thanks Kim for having me!

---

Thank YOU, Erika! I see some stationery in my future.

love.

((handmade monday)) oversized fold-over clutch tutorial

2012-02-13T08:35:00.002-07:00

Like the new duds? We're sprucing up the place, so click around and see what's new!

I have seen oversized clutches everywhere lately and I couldn't wait to get my hands on one! Today, I'll teach you how to save some pennies and sew one with a magnetic closure that is large enough to hold your iPad or e-reader, along with other necessities.

Let's get sewing!

Here's what you'll need:

thread

scissors

two fabric choices (interior & exterior)

magnetic closure

interfacing or felt

sewing machine

1. Cut out a pocket, mine ended up being 8X11 inches & fold it in half.

2. Cut out your outside fabric (mine was 11X15 inches). I used my iPad as a guide for how large I wanted it. Use that to cut out the interior fabric with the same dimensions.

3. Pocket: Fold the fabric in half, if you haven't already, and stitch up the sides, leaving a long side open. Turn it right side out and press, turning in the raw edges. Pin this onto your lining fabric and sew along the sides & bottom. This leaves a nice and clean top part of your pocket!

Here is a step-by-step photo break down.

Note: Make sure you do this before you sew your interior fabric. Not that I forgot and learned the hard way or anything...

4. Fold each fabrics lengthwise, with the right sides of the fabric facing each other. Sew up the sides of your EXTERIOR fabric and make sure you leave the top open.

5. Sew up ONE side of your INTERIOR fabric and leave a 3" opening on the other side. Again, leave the top open.

*I usually flip to the right sides & iron my pieces at this point*

6. Using the instructions on the packaging, install your magnetic snap. I didn't use interfacing on this clutch, but wanted to make sure the snap was sturdy, so I put a layer of felt in between the fabric and the snap.

7. Stay with me & read carefully. Keep the INTERIOR fabric inside-out and turn the EXTERIOR fabric RIGHT-side-out. Put the EXTERIOR fabric INSIDE the INTERIOR fabric. Line up the top (pin if you'd like) and sew ALL the way around.

8. Now, using the hole we left open earlier, pull out the EXTERIOR fabric and then sew up the edge of the INTERIOR fabric using a topstitch. Stuff the lining inside, press and VOILA!

I like folding it up a tiny bit so that the lining peeks through.

Options:

1. Make it in leather, which is next for me! SO fab!

2. Add a zipper, rather than the magnetic closure.

3. Make the outside colorful, with a solid lining.

4. Add interfacing to make it sturdier.

5. Topstitch the top opening.

love.

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ask

2012-02-11T18:16:00.000-07:00

One thing that I "regret" from running a full-time handmade shop was that I rarely had time to fully answer questions that people had about running a shop. I'd try and answer what I could, but bottom line, there were too many emails in my inbox and not enough hours in the day.

Now that I'm not running Oh, Sweet Joy! ((the shop)) full time, I have a little bit more time on my hands. This doesn't mean that I have time to answer every question (that is usually a page long email) that pops in my inbox, but I do want to answer the most pressing ones that you may have.

((photo source))

That said, if you have a question (or two) about running a handmade shop, leave them in the comments section below. If you'd rather, you can also email them to me (ohsweetjoyATgmailDOTcom). Depending on how many questions I get, I'll do a series of posts or just a long one :) Feel free to ask any other questions, as well. I'm working on a Frequently Asked Questions page and anything that doesn't really involve running an indie biz, I'll stick in there.

Ready? Ask away, friends.

I'll do my best to answer questions honestly and as thoroughly as possible!

love.

playing piano in the moonlight

2012-02-09T00:00:00.005-07:00

I can't get enough of this music video. It's beautiful and sweet and makes me feel all warm & fuzzy. My friend, Lauren Ledbetter, ((who is a super talented stylist)) helped with the styling of the video and is a baller.

Enjoy some sweet inspiration!

Perfect Kiss Official Video from Marie Hines on Vimeo.

I just bought Marie Hines' album on iTunes and l-o-v-e it. Seriously. Love.

love.

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Sponsor Highlight + Giveaway: Judy Kaufmann

2012-02-08T00:00:00.008-07:00

We changed up the order of posts on you this week. You have a TINY amount of time to enter last week's giveaway, so hop on over, do that real quick, and come on back. Don't worry. We'll wait on you.

---

When I received an email from Judy Kaufmann, I was so humbled and giddy. After all, I own one of her prints and love it, her work is second-to-none & beautifully unique, and I mean, the woman's home was featured on Design*Sponge! Needless to say, I'm thrilled to share her work with you all today.

Judy lives in Barcelona, Spain (jealous!) and creates gorgeous prints that are, both, colorful and whimsical. She is a very humble woman and if I were Judy, I'd be ranting and raving about my successes, gorgeous color pairings, and features/press I've received. However, when I asked for a bio, she gave me this:

I'm Judy Kaufmann, a Barcelona based Freelance Illustrator who likes to draw animals, people, houses, cars, trees and everything repeatedly.

Love her sense of humor too - exhibit a: check out her twitter bio. :)

Today, Judy gave me the opportunity to pick which print we'd give away. I thought this one was perfect, so Judy is giving away this awesome print - oh, the possibilities of colorful frames! It will go with any decor, and can be customized with a funky, modern, bright, or simple frame. Perfecto!

You can also use this code if you see another print you can't live without, which is a great possibility. You simply can't beat 20% off great art.

You can find Judy at the following places on the interwebs:

shop :: blog :: twitter :: iPhone cases on society6

---

Mandatory Entry:

Head on over to the Judy Kaufmann Etsy Shop and tell me which print is your favorite!

Extra Entries:

1. Follow both Judy Kaufmann (@JudyKaufmann) and myself (@ohsweetjoy) on twitter. (one entry)

2. Be a follower of Oh, Sweet Joy! Blog via Google Friend Connect. (one entry)

3. "Like" Oh, Sweet Joy's Facebook Page here.

4. Tweet, Facebook, OR blog about this giveaway. (ONE entry)

Feel free to use this:

I just entered to win an amazing print from @JudyKaufmann at @OhSweetJoy's blog! http://tinyurl.com/2ddk985

That's a possible FIVE entries! I hope you win!

love.

this ain't your grandma's skirt

2012-02-07T00:00:00.005-07:00

When I gave a talk at a MOPS meeting a few months ago about style & outfitting, one of the first things asked when I opened the floor for questions was, "So...you said that pattern mixing is a fun trend. But...how do you know what patterns to mix?"

For me, I almost always pair a stripe with some sort of floral. It's easy, it's fun, and it doesn't look like a 4 year old picked out your outfit.

Whoa. Hey there white & pasty January legs.

Sweetheart Necklace - Lisa Leonard Designs

Striped Boatneck Tee - Old Navy

Belt - Anthropologie

Clutch - Hobo International

Watch - Fossil

Skirt, Mary Jane heels - Dillards

I seriously love this look. It has a sweet vintage feel, but with a chunk of purple hair and hipster glasses it isn't TOO sweet ;)

Anywho, what are your favorite patterns to mix?

love.

photos courtesy of Jessica Povenmire

linked up with lindsay!

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handmade monday: ((tutorial)) lace-trimmed layering slip

2012-02-06T00:00:00.036-07:00

Sometimes skirts/dresses are a tiny bit too short.

Sometimes you just need an extra little detail to your outfit.

Sometimes you simply can't turn down adding some lace to your look (hand raised).

Today, I'll be showing you how to add lace trim (or any trim for that matter!) to a slip so that you can add a little length to some of your garments that you just can't part with.

Let's get to it!

Here's what you'll need:

Sewing Machine

Thread

Scissors

Lace Trim

Slip

Pins

Measure your lace around the bottom of the slip to see how much you will need & cut.

Pin lace to slip. (I just put mine on top since the kind I purchased won't fray.)

Top stitch all the way around, sewing the edges together at the end.

(Make sure you sew them together inside out, so the outside looks finished)

Now, if that isn't the most drab photo I've ever seen, I don't know what is.

But that's never here nor there.

Here are some fun ways to style your new & improved slip.

You can:

1. Pair it with a tunic to make it more of a dress length.

2. Pull it up underneath your bust and where it with a flowy blouse.

3. Wear it underneath a skirt that is a tad bit short.

For the record, these are still too short for me to wear & not feel like a hoochy-momma. Next time I'll be using longer lace or crochet trim ;)

love.

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linked up here!

favorite things friday: skirts

2012-02-03T00:00:00.007-07:00

There's nothing more functional and versatile in my closet than skirts. Here are some of my favorite skirt finds lately :)

1. Yarn Plumes Skirt - Anthropologie

2. Cassidy Skirt - Corey Lynn Calter

3. Mila Skirt - Fossil

4. Amelia Striped Skirt - ShopKempt

5. Fair Trade Secret Skirt - ModCloth

Tell me about your favorite skirt!

My favorite is one that I got on suuuuuper sale at anthro (this one!). It's floral and has almost every color in it, so I don't have to think too hard about what to put on top. That's SUPER important to this indecisive girl.

love.

rise & shine

2012-02-02T11:51:00.001-07:00

I had a slow start to my morning today. I haven't been able to fall asleep the last few nights and that has resulted in groggy, sleep-deprived morning routines. BUT Chase comes home tonight and I can't wait! The sleepless nights will be made a-okay.

Have a wonderful Thursday, everyone.

love.

orange, lace & some birds

2012-02-01T00:00:00.013-07:00

Happy February!

Make sure you take a gander at our February sponsors over there on the right hand side bar. They are all kinds of baller.

Asymetrical Tee, Crochet Tank (similar one in red here), Bicycle Necklace - Anthropologie

Denim - Levi's

Over the Knee Socks, Orange Layering Tank - Urban Outfitters

Boots - Target

Watch - Fossil

The sun came out to play last week, here in Boulder. This resulted in a cheery, orange outfit & an outfit post. You'll be seeing a lot more of these soon. :)

((outfit posts, not orange outfits - just to clarify))

Also, can we just talk about how cool this fence is?

"Put a Bird - or 20 - On It!"

love.

Photos courtesy of Jessica Povenmire.

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Sponsor Highlight + Giveaway: A Hollie Rogue

2012-01-31T00:00:00.004-07:00

Happy Tuesday! Last call for February sponsors! I'd love to have you :) Email me if you want to hop on last minute!

---

Let's start with some giveaway winners & then throw in another giveaway while we're at it! :)

The winner of the No Brainer Wardrobe e-book & the Rags to Stitches Large Ad is:

The winner of the Oh So Antsy mini state necklace is:

The other two winners of the No Brainer Wardrobe are:

If you didn't win any of these giveaways, go here & here to make sure you take advantage of the discount codes!

---

Today, I get to tell you about one of our new sponsors, The Hollie Rogue!

I'll let Andi take it away so you can learn more about this great blog & shop.

Hi, I'm Andi and I'm a wife, mom, former elementary teacher, and 1/3 of The Hollie Rogue Shop. My two sisters and I opened our etsy shop in November of last year and design handmade, vintage-inspired and crocheted accessories. I love using antique pieces to create something new and updated like my typewriter key necklaces and antique earring rings. My sister, Emily, hand-embroiders gorgeous pendant necklaces (can be customized for your color choices) and my sister, Gretchen is the yarn expert. I also write about my perspective on parenting, marriage, faith, and crafting over on my blog, The Hollie Rogue. Please come say hello---new friends are my favorite!

Andi has so generously offered up one of her gorgeous vintage typewriter key necklaces - that's a $35 value! You can also use the code SWEETJOY25 for ALL of February if something catches your eye :)

After you enter the giveaway, make sure you check out all that The Hollie Rogue has to offer at the following links:

blog // Facebook // twitter // shop

Mandatory Entry:

Head on over to the Hollie Rogue shop and tell me which item you'd love to have!

Extra Entries:

1. Follow both The Hollie Rogue (@TheHollieRogue) and myself (@ohsweetjoy) on twitter. (one entry)

2. Be a follower of Oh, Sweet Joy! Blog via Google Friend Connect. (one entry)

3. Tweet, Facebook, OR blog about this giveaway. (ONE entry)

Feel free to use this:

I just entered to win an "XO" typewriter necklace from @TheHollieRogue at @OhSweetJoy's blog! http://tinyurl.com/2ddk985

That's a possible FOUR entries! I hope you win!

love.

favorite things friday ((cupid's arrows))

2012-01-27T00:00:00.005-07:00

There is something about arrow prints on home decor, clothing, and printed items that makes me smile. I love the almost bohemian look it gives. Valentine's Day is approaching, so today's Favorite Things Friday is all about arrows!

Source: etsy.com via Kim on Pinterest

Source: laurenmoffatt.net via Kim on Pinterest

Source: urbanoutfitters.com via Kim on Pinterest

Source: etsy.com via Kim on Pinterest

Happy Friday, friends! Have a wonderful weekend :)

love.

happy birthday to my bestie!

2012-01-26T00:00:00.000-07:00

Today is my best friend's birthday! Instead of getting all sappy, I just wanted to celebrate with a funny picture.

Let me also explain the red-neck-ness of this picture. We were at a staff retreat at our cabin in Almont and on a break, we were shooting ~~beer~~ errrrr coke cans that we threw in a tree. Normal, right? Add a trucker hat and an axe as a prop and you've got yerself a dern tootin' great photo opp.

& we also just so happened to both be wearing ~~jean shorts~~ jorts.

Happy birthday, Ari!

Here's to celebrating many more with you.

((even though you are not in town and I'm pouting about it))

love.

bold prints

2012-01-25T02:00:00.002-07:00

I used to only wear solids and if there was any pattern, it was only in texture. Even though I have had an ongoing love affair with textiles for years, the "print" bug never bit me until recently. And now? I can't stop.

For example, I purchased this blouse and this blouse a while ago. Seriously? Snails? Weird looking owls? On a shirt?

For real, though, I love seeing my personal style evolve as I push the limits with what I'm comfortable wearing. Here are some prints I'd love to have in my wardrobe. They're a little bit quirky and a little bit awesome. **wink**

Here are a few favorite prints I've found cruising around the interwebs.

((1)) ((2)) ((3)) ((4))

If you're a jeans and a solid tee type of girl, no worries. You can bring in some print with a simple & pretty scarf, like this one from Old Navy that is a measly $14.94!

aaaand speaking of prints, this is my new favorite fabric. I just ordered some to make a kickin' spring & summer dress out of. CUTE!

((source))

love.

recipe ((izze cocktail))

2012-01-24T00:00:00.003-07:00

Here we go with that color scheme again.

I love a good cocktail. I had one similar to this at a local sushi place before Christmas and decided to try my hand at making one at home. I'm no bartender, but I'll say so myself that it tastes pretty darn identical. I hate getting out my shaker, mostly because I can never get the top off. This way, you can shake your adult beverage in a mason jar, pop in a straw and it's all cute and hipster and presentable and stuff.

Here's what you'll need:

This drink is nothing fancy to make ((although it does taste like a dreamsicle which are kind of fancy)). If it was, we wouldn't be keeping it so ~~klassy~~ classy by buying vodka in a plastic handle. Oh, and those clementines are simply for decoration purposes.

Phew. Glad we got that out of the way.

Using the breakdown above ((or to taste)), pour in your ingredients.

Put the lid on & shake, shake, shake it like a polaroid picture.

Put in a straw and sip away. You're welcome.

love.

linked up here!

handmade monday ((DIY shoe clips))

2012-01-23T00:00:00.012-07:00

I'm kind of a shoe hoarder. I do purge often, but I can't help it. I just love shoes. As the weather starts to warm up (hardly), I thought it would be fun to add some shoe clips to some "old shoes" to update them a tad. The best part? They're interchangeable and removable!

All you have to do is buy (super cheap) shoe clips at your local craft store or from a supplier on etsy. Make your embellishments & make sure you back your embellishment in felt so it doesn't scratch the top of your shoes when you add the clip. The possibilities are seriously endless. I used huge covered buttons, made some peonies, rosettes (duh), whimsical pinwheels, and two styles of bows. Easy Peasy!

While I was making these, I assumed most of you would be able to figure out how to assemble them. After I made all of them, I realized that was probably super lame of me to assume, so I looked up some tutorials for you for the ones that aren't self-explanatory.

Fabric Pinwheels

Fabric Bows

Fabric Peonies

I'd love to see what you come up with! Vintage brooches, crazy feather arrangements and some sort of sparkles would all be fun.

Which one is your favorite? This one is mine:

love.

linked up here:

& Mique's Pity Party!

advertise

2012-01-21T00:00:00.001-07:00

I'd love to have you as part of the Oh, Sweet Joy! family in February. If you're interested, e-mail me (ohsweetjoyATgmailDOTcom) for information regarding current sponsorships.

love.

BOGO! (if you email me by Monday, January 23rd, and sign up for a one month regular size {125X125} ad, I will give you the month of March for half off!))

5 things i've learned about running a handmade shop

2012-01-19T10:08:00.000-07:00

I'm over here today sharing 5 things I've learned about running a handmade shop.

Happy Thursday!

love.

color crush ((orange & aqua))

2012-01-18T00:00:00.001-07:00

I've always been drawn to the color robin's egg blue & likely always will. I usually pair it with coral or yellow, but for some reason, lately I've been looooooving it with orange! It makes the robins egg blue look more aqua and honestly, it makes me anxious for spring like crazy.

It all started when Chase gave me those tulips I mentioned here. I put them in an aqua mason jar as a vase and it all went uphill quickly. I also scored a cute vintage looking gumball machine and put some orange jelly belly's in it ((yum!)). When I found the round tray, I knew it would be perfect for a little grouping of pretty orange & aqua things on our coffee table.

What's your favorite color combination these days?

love.

sponsor highlight + giveaway: oh so antsy

2012-01-17T00:00:00.007-07:00

It's not too late to enter last week's giveaway, so click here to enter! Hurry! :)

---

You might remember Oh So Antsy jewelry from the Handmade Holidays Gift Guide! I'm excited to have Jessica's shop back as a sponsor for January and get to brag about her work a little bit more!

I feel like everyone has a deep connection with their state. As a Texan living in Colorado, no matter where I live in the future, there will always be a special place in my heart for those two states. I also love to show my Texas pride with the ever popular state of Texas shape around our home. Jessica makes custom state necklace and places the heart where YOUR heart desires! I can imagine them layered with other beaded necklaces for a fun & eclectic look.

I'd love to rock one of these necklaces around my neck to keep Texas close to my heart ;)

Here is a little bit from Jessica about Oh So Antsy:

Nearly one year ago, my little handmade business began. A friend had the idea for a few of us girls to put together a craft booth at an upcoming event downtown and suggested I make some knitted items. I knew in the few short months before the event, I would only end up with 3 or 4 things to sell. Then it occurred to me to use my new silver jewelry making skills to create a few pieces for the show!

I worked very hard in the following months cutting and hammering away in my make-shift living room studio (where all of my work is still done), as well as designing and making business cards, and working so hard at getting an online shop opened by the end of January, my birthday month. So on January 31^st, just in the nick of time, I officially opened my shop. The craft show was relatively unsuccessful, but it really gave me the push I needed to get my small business going. The jewelry I was making changed quite a bit, from the beginning, when I started getting a lot of custom requests for state and country shaped necklaces. I recently started adding tiny versions of the states and countries which are SO cute and fun to make. I have a few new things planned in the near future and I can’t wait to share!

I am so surprised at how far I've come in one year. My business has grown more than I could have imagined in a short time, and I'm so thrilled and thankful for all the support I've received and connections I’ve made.

---

Today, Jessica is giving away a custom tiny state necklace, which is a $34 value! Not only that, but you can use the discount code OHFREESHIP for free shipping on your next Oh So Antsy purchase!

Find more from Oh So Antsy here:

BLOG
FACEBOOK

TWITTER

Mandatory Entry:

Head on over to the Oh So Antsy shop and tell me which necklace you'd love to add to your jewelry collection!

Extra Entries:

1. Follow both Jessica (@OhSoAntsy) and myself (@ohsweetjoy) on twitter. (one entry)

2. Be a follower of Oh, Sweet Joy! Blog via Google Friend Connect. (one entry)

3. Tweet, Facebook, OR blog about this giveaway. (ONE entry)

Feel free to use this:

I just entered to win a state necklace from @OhSoAntsy over at @ohsweetjoy's blog! http://tinyurl.com/2ddk985

That's a possible FOUR entries! I hope you win!

love.

((handmade monday)) DIY fabric watch bands

2012-01-16T00:00:00.005-07:00

Way back in the day, I used to work for Fossil. I still love the company and would rock their apparel and accessories, alike, on the daily if I could afford it all....I digress.

It was during my days at Fossil that I became a bit obsessed with watches. I have way too many ((that consequently need their batteries changed)) & I really think watches are the most underrated of accessories. I have a few watch faces that are missing their straps and so I decided to make some pretty bands for them. I have no idea where the watch face photographed came from, but it, too, needs a new battery.

Here's all you need:

Fabric

Trim ((optional))

Thread

Some sort of snap ((I used pearl snaps because I'm country like that))

Sewing machine

Here's all you have to do:

1. Measure around your wrist to see how long you need your strap to be. Make sure you leave room for sean allowance, overlapping & snapping. I rhymed. Giggle.

2. Determine how wide you'd like your strap and double it plus half an inch or so for seam allowance.

3. Cut out your rectangle.

4. Fold it in half (long-ways) right sides of the fabric facing each other.

5. Sew around the 3 raw edges and leave an opening on the long side.

6. Flip right side out and press.

7. Top stitch around the edges.

8. Add your snap or velcro or whatever you decided to use.

9. Insert fabric through your watch face and voila!

I was playing around and made a woven five strand braided band as well. I added crochet lace trim to another. You could find vintage watch faces at a thrift store or even just an old watch and take the band off. It's just so fun & the possibilities are endless!

Have fun :)

love.

favorite things friday: pinterest projects

2012-01-13T15:03:00.002-07:00

I can't wait to try these projects!

Source: fellowfellow.com via Kim on Pinterest

Source: gingibersnap.com via Kim on Pinterest

Source: burdastyle.com via Kim on Pinterest

Source: maiedae.blogspot.com via Kim on Pinterest

Source: littleloveliesbyallison.com via Kim on Pinterest

Don't these all seem like so much fun!?

Have a great weekend, y'all.

love.

ps. Do you follow me on pinterest? Click here, if not!

((If you want to, of course)) ;)

((thursday))

2012-01-12T12:01:00.001-07:00

The ground is covered in snow, the sky is the brightest shade of blue, the sun is shining and these tulips ((from Chase)) on our coffee table are showing off. Aren't they pretty?

I just got back from breakfast with a friend and now I'm headed to do some cross country skiing.

((sigh.))

I love days off.

How's your Thursday lookin'?

love.

linking up with linday's "it's the little things" link up party!

29 ways to stay inspired & creative

2012-01-11T00:00:00.001-07:00

this list is in my personal shopping binder at work and i love reading it weekly. i don't know where it originated from (please let me know if you know!) but i thought i'd share.

1. make lists

2. carry a notebook everywhere

3. try free writing

4. get away from the computer

5. quit beating yourself up

photo source

6. take breaks

7. sing in the shower

8. drink coffee

9. listen to new music

10. be open

photo source

11. surround yourself with positive people

12. get feedback

13. collaborate

14. don't give up

15. practice, practice, practice

16. allow yourself to make mistakes

17. go somewhere new

18. count your blessings

19. get lots of rest

20. take risks

photo source

21. break the rules

22. don't force it

23. read a page of the dictionary

24. create a framework

25. stop trying to be someone else's perfect

photo source***

26. got an idea? write it down

27. clean your workspace

28. have fun

29. finish something

love.

***like the inspire print? click the photo source link and use the code INSPIREU for 10% off! :)

GROUP sponsor highlight + giveaway: rags to stitches, no brainer wardrobe, & pamplemousse1983

2012-01-10T14:32:00.004-07:00

I hope everyone's week is off to a great start. Let's keep it going strong with a GREAT giveaway!

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Pamplemousse1983 is a shop with both wearable and displayable art. Maryam is a super talented photographer and has just about the most darling baby girl I've ever seen! Her blog is inspiring and full of tutorials, recipes, and behind the scenes into her business. I especially love her "Thursday Things" posts!

Use the code OHSWEETJOY for 25% off any of the necklaces and/or prints in Maryam's shop!

Find more from Maryam at the following:

blog // shop // twitter

---

Do you go to your closet and take a deep sigh every morning, not knowing what to wear?

The gorgeous Haley from The Tiny Twig has put together a STELLAR e-book, The No Brainer Wardrobe, with tips on how to have your very own "no brainer wardrobe." Learn tips from Haley on how to find your style, build your wardrobe with go-to staples, and fit your body type well (and SO much more). As a stylist and personal shopper who has read this entire e-book, I can honestly say that this will be a priceless resource for you ladies who are struggling with what to wear.

Haley is so incredibly generous, y'all. Not only is she giving away THREE copies of The No Brainer Wardrobe, but is also offering the first TEN people to jump on this offer & download the e-book 50% OFF with the code SWEETJOY. ((HURRY!))

Find more from Haley here:

blog // twitter // e-book

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Rags to Stitches is a handmade boutique, as well as a lifestyle blog. It is run by Alissa, who is both creative and beautiful. She is a mommy of two and is simply inspiring. Her shop consists of handmade goodies that are sewn with gorgeous fabric. You will find laptop & iPad cases, carseat canopies, wipe cases, and other useful items for moms :)

Alissa is offering one reader a chance to win a large ad space on her blog (a $25 value)! You can also use the following code to get a baller discount on her laptop or iPad "snuggles."

Find more from Alissa here:

Blog // Shop // Twitter // Facebook

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To enter this GROUP giveaway, simply tell us what the highlight of 2012 has been so far!!

To earn extra entries:

1. visit each shop/blog and tell me what your favorite items are from at least ONE of the shops

(one entry).

pamplemousse1983 * rags to stitches boutique * the no brainer wardrobe

2. follow the Oh, Sweet Joy! blog via Google Friend Connect (one entry).

3. tweet/facebook/blog about this giveaway (one entry).

Feel free to use this:

Sponsor Highlight + Group Giveaway on @ohsweetjoy's blog! (Featuring @thetinytwig, @pamplemousse1983, & @ragstostitches!) http://tinyurl.com/2ddk985

love.

real marriage

2012-01-05T11:58:00.002-07:00

I thought long & hard about whether or not I'd write a review on this book. I'm trying to settle down the energizer in me and not "stir the pot" as often as I do. I have a lot of people on my blog roll & twitter feed that despise Mark Driscoll. The last thing I wanted was them to have ammo against me and try and get in a 144 character debate with them. But here I am ((and i will not debate with you via twitter)).

I wondered why I felt the need to defend him, and so that I can be completely honest with my bias, I will say: We are planting a church with Acts29. Acts29 is a network of church planters that was founded by Mark Driscoll. I guess that's why I feel so defensive when people attack his character, his heart, & his books/sermons.

I will also say that I used to really dislike Mark Driscoll. I haven't agreed with many of the things he has preached about in the past, the way he did it, or the manner in which his tone reflected (in my wrong opinion) pride. There was one thing he said (that is not worth mentioning) that put a bad taste in my mouth and so my opinion of him was low. Unfortunately, this is what happens when you are a pastor who is often in the media and that is preaching truth that comes straight from the Bible. People start to cling to ONE thing you've done wrong and completely write you off, which is what many are doing with this book.

Not okay, Christians. Get over yourselves.

However, once I actually started listening to more of his sermons, once I listened to him speak live a couple of times, read this book, and read a prayer that he sent to the Acts 29 churches regarding the book, I started to see that he was a just a man who never claimed perfection, to know everything, or to have it all together. I saw Mark Driscoll as a man who wanted the best for Christians, the best for marriages, and the best for God's children. He is equipped and called to pastor and is using his gifts honorably and boldly.

---

Let me start with this quote,

"We do believe it can be used of God to help people, which is why we wrote it."

They did not write this book to make money. In fact, they gave away thousands of copies and sold many at cost (I only bought mine for $10, which means they got zero profit from it). They did not write this book to become famous. They wrote this book with a heart to help Christian marriages. The end.

I'm not going to go through every chapter and say what I agreed and disagreed with. I'm tired of bloggers doing that and taking snippets of the book out of context to say, "Pastors are not qualified to be sex therapists," ((last time I checked they never claimed to be)) "his admittal of mistakes & sins disqualify him for marriage," ((because that's obviously the gospel ::sarcasm::)) etc.

However, my overall review of the book is this:

We live in a culture that generally doesn't take the vows they make on their wedding day seriously.

We live in a culture that is constantly worshipping idols (i.e., money, food, sex, material things, spouses) rather than God.

We live in a culture in which the divorce rate is way too high.

We live in a culture that is sex-crazed and more open with sexuality than ever.

In this type of culture that we are surrounded by, I believe that, as Christians, this book can absolutely speak to the heart of most issues in marriage and help us evaluate our own marriages to better glorify God.

Gary Thomas said it well in his book, Sacred Marriage, when he challenged us with the question, "What If God Designed Marriage to Make Us Holy More Than to Make Us Happy?"

I appreciate SO much that Real Marriage claims that other than Jesus & the gospel, a marriage should be based on friendship. I agree 100% that if you aren't best friends with your spouse, you aren't enjoying marriage to it's fullness. I loved the Fruitful Reciprocal Intimate Enjoyable Needed Devoted acronym used and the further explanation of each of those & how we can be better spouses by dwelling on the scripture that supports those.

I was also pleased to see the importance of grace, forgiveness, and repentance talked about in such detail, with scripture to back it all up.

This was one of my favorite snippets on this subject:

Conflict is inevitable and can actually be good. Some of the times I've grown the most is when I've disagreed with Chase on something and I had to seek wisdom from others, the Word, and prayer.

I appreciated Mark's call to the fellas to be better men. He challenges the guys to put down their game controllers, grow up, get involved in a good church, and lead their families well.

Honestly, I could have done without Chapter 10 in it's entirety, which is the bulk of what has been so controversial. There were SEVERAL things I disagreed with in this chapter from his interpretation of scripture (but I'm no theologian or scholar or expert) to the things he was essentially condoning. What I DID appreciate was him challenging readers who are struggling with these questions to one, make sure it didn't go against their or their spouse's convictions and two, ask

Is it lawful?

Is it helpful?

Is it enslaving?

Even though I didn't find this chapter helpful or enjoyable, I do hope that this chapter gives people freedom on what to say "yes" or "no" to.

The Respectful Wife chapter is another blog post for another time, but I will say, respect & submission is a two way street and I learned a LOT from this chapter.

Bottom line, Mark & Grace discuss their sinful pasts freely and without shame. They are honest, their sin has been forgiven and they are trying to use their pasts to help others live the most fruitful marriage possible. You can't knock them for that. They don't need me to defend them, but I hope that you can read this book to help your marriage succeed, be the best spouse you can, and fall more in love with each other & with Jesus together.

love.

Try saving on Real Marriage with this Barnes and Noble coupon.