tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-63814741086660951742024-02-18T20:27:12.634-08:00Level & LaceTanyahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12462983872912418410noreply@blogger.comBlogger197125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6381474108666095174.post-55168126267981550562018-02-18T09:30:00.001-08:002018-02-18T09:30:28.941-08:00Beauty in AshesI'm a little overwhelmed this morning. I look around and see the remnants of my friends and family celebrating my sweet unborn child. The, "It's a boy!" balloons in the corner and the ultrasound picture of him on the mantel. Last night Alex and I had a "date night in." We ate cheese and crackers and had our wine substitutes, pomegranate green tea for me and sparkling water for him. I couldn't help but end the night in tears. Probably for multiple reasons. My out of control hormones, Tom Cruise reciting poetry to Elizabeth Shue at the end of <i>Cocktail</i> on the TV, my baby boy kicking his dad's hand on my belly, and the snapshots I had tucked away from my day of celebrating new life.<br />
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Since my miscarriage it has been nearly impossible to separate my grief from my joy for this second baby of mine. I feel both simultaneously and they each multiply the other. I feel such deep appreciation for my body's ability to carry a pregnancy again, and this time to full term. And yet I still feel such deep grief now knowing more than ever what I have lost. A baby I will never know.<br />
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I've wrestled so much with what to share on social media. <i>Do I share my overwhelming joy or my grief? If I only share my joy will other women mourning their own loss resent me?</i><br />
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In the beginning I felt a lot of guilt for being pregnant so soon after my miscarriage. So many women wait years or longer, or maybe never conceive again. Or they conceive and are faced with loss again. It felt unfair that my friends had lost multiple babies and waited countless years, and here I was pregnant again after four months. I still don't think it's fair. But I also had to come to terms with the fact that, even though these women had suffered longer and probably harder, I had to celebrate the precious life growing in my belly. I've tried hard to be sensitive on social media, remembering the life of my first while honoring the life of my second. And it's been a constant battle within me to try not to feel like others may think I'm seeking attention for my grief.<br />
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I know that many people don't like to share the hard stuff online. It's personal. And it's vulnerable to share those things, or some may even think inappropriate. But something I've come to learn about myself is that I can't help but be honest about who I really am. I'm a broken beat up mess most of the time. I don't want it to look like my life is put together, because it's not. Sometimes I have terrible fights with my husband. Sometimes (or, let's be real, probably most times) I am selfish and self centered and want what is most convenient and comfortable for me. I'm a brat on Valentine's Day. Not the kind that expects presents, but the kind that scoffs at those that do.<br />
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I say all this, not to take pity on myself or beat myself down, but to be real. I cannot accept my strengths without knowing that I have flaws. Big gaping flaws. But here's the deal... I think that is the <i>joy </i>of life. Suffering and sharing our suffering, then coming together to support each other in those moments. My grief is not for me alone. I know that others are out there saying, "Yeah, me too. I'm suffering and there is no one that could possibly understand this pain."<br />
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That's why I share my story and am honest with my grief, even during this time of celebration. Because there may only be one person out there who is going through something similar, and if sharing my story helps in any way, then that is more than worth it to be vulnerable with perfect strangers on the internet.<br />
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My point is, me and my life are not perfect, and <i>that</i> is what makes my life so beautiful.<br />
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<br />Tanyahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12462983872912418410noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6381474108666095174.post-53739848648002953492017-02-05T19:33:00.000-08:002017-02-05T19:33:00.366-08:00The Question, Pt. 2I've been thinking and planning and trying to figure out exactly the right words for this post for some time. Back in September of 2013 I wrote <a href="http://levelandlace.blogspot.com/2013/09/the-question.html">this post</a> about how I didn't want to have kids. Or at least what I was trying to say was that I couldn't see myself having them, but knew that it did not necessarily mean that I <i>wouldn't</i>.<br />
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For the last 9 weeks or so I had been trying to figure out how to tell my story since then, how to say that, while I hadn't originally planned to have a baby that one was on the way anyway. But before I had a chance to write a single word, the whole story changed. And now I have a different story to tell, one of loss rather than life.</div>
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<b>I want to preface by asking that people please stop asking this question.</b> The, "So, when are you going to have kids??!!" question. I get it, I know it's innocent. But you have no idea the personal battles that people are facing. Battles with infertility, miscarriage, depression, anxiety, relational issues, etc... And to be honest, it just isn't any of your business.</div>
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I'm sharing this story for me. Because I need closure and because there are a lot of people that we had shared our good news with, and I can't bare the thought of facing them in public and having to share the bad.</div>
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So this is how we got from never having kids to losing our first baby.</div>
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Almost immediately after I wrote that post in the fall of 2013, my heart started to change. People told me that I would change my mind, but that is not what happened. In my mind I knew what I wanted, but my heart was conflicted. After being married for about 5 years, everything being wrapped up in just the two of us started to make me feel almost a little sick. Everything was about us, and I didn't like it. I started to entertain the idea of having children, but still very much unsure of that possibility.</div>
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The thing is, I could not for the life of me imagine my life with a baby. Or a toddler. Or a teenager. I couldn't see it. And as time went on, I also realized I couldn't imagine my future without them. I couldn't imagine being old and not also being a grandma. And that is kind of when everything changed. I started to see babies and feel a longing for one of my own, which I had never had before.</div>
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About a year and a half ago Alex and I decided that we were going to start trying to conceive. As much as I had not wanted a baby before, I became obsessed with the idea of becoming pregnant. And month after month the tests came up negative. It wasn't long before I decided that I couldn't handle that and we stopped trying. We moved on to the not preventing stage, but I secretly still hoped I'd see a positive sign soon. </div>
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During this time my desire for a baby ebbed and flowed. One day I would decide for sure that I did not want to have children and we would discuss long term prevention. The very next day I would say that I did want them, and maybe we should talk to the doctor and see if everything was alright. And we did this whole roller coaster, month after month. I do. I don't. I'm not.</div>
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We stopped buying pregnancy tests. I was pretty regular, but every once in awhile I would have a weird cycle. We would hope and then be let down. And then I had just had it. In November of this last year, I had made up my mind. I was ready to decide that I did not want to have kids and I was going to schedule an appointment with my doctor to discuss birth control.</div>
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And then it happened. We waited for over a week before we took a test. I knew my body was doing something weird but I still thought for sure the test would be negative. And right away that plus sign showed up and I didn't even know how to feel or what to say, I just cried. And for the first time I felt peace knowing that all these years I've agonized over this question, and here was my answer as clear as day. </div>
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We were excited, but I was certainly not naive about the risks and the likelihood of miscarriage. I knew all the statistics and read all the things. I have countless friends who have lost their babies, some I probably don't even know about. But I promised myself that I would not allow myself to live in fear of the unknown. About 2 weeks after the positive test all the morning sickness started, and it hit me hard. I could hardly eat anything, everything smelled awful. And I knew that this was a good sign that things were progressing properly.</div>
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You are always always told (by friends, family, or the internet) that you should wait until after your first trimester to share the news, but then it happens to you and the weeks feel like years. We told three of our closest friends right away as well as those that work in my office (it's a small office), but didn't share with anyone else for several more weeks. As the holidays approached I knew I didn't have much of a choice and after our first ultrasound we decided it was safe to tell our immediate family, but asked that they keep this between us. </div>
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Looking back I see the warning signs. From the moment I called the doctor's office to set up my first appointments, I let them know about the abdominal pain I was having. They did some tests and everything came back mostly normal other than a minor infection, which they prescribed antibiotics for. They scheduled an early ultrasound at what we thought was 7 weeks and 4 days. During the ultrasound the baby measured only measured 6 weeks and 5 days, but we saw the heartbeat and they said we probably just had the calculation wrong. Even then I knew this wasn't right. I knew that it wasn't possible to be a week behind. This would have meant we took our test so early that there was no way we would have gotten a positive result yet.</div>
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But there was a heartbeat, and so I just tried to let it go.</div>
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That weekend was Christmas and we told our families. Partially because it was the best present we could have given, and partially because I was so sick I couldn't eat any of the delicious food and knew this would draw suspicion. At 10 weeks we were feeling rather confident as we were getting close to the end of our first trimester and we told our friends then our Grandparents and said it was ok to share with extended family.</div>
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When my morning sickness first started to taper right around 9 weeks deep down I was a little worried. It's hard not to be when the sign that, although I hated, told me everything was okay faded. But I just tried to see this as a blessing. I know dozens of people who didn't have any morning sickness so I just tried to let it go.</div>
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At 12 weeks we were feeling great. My morning sickness had gone away, almost completely, and we were just about to finish the first trimester which gave me such relief. All I could focus on was getting through the first trimester so the fear in my chest could subside.</div>
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We had our first appointment with our OB at 12 weeks 1 day and I will never forget the fear I felt as I waited patiently to hear that everything was alright. She couldn't find the heartbeat with the fetal doppler, which is normal (she assured us that only about half the time the heartbeat can be heard externally that early). She brought in a mobile ultrasound machine and did an ultrasound. Finally, after what felt like forever she said something, and I was so expectant I almost didn't understand what she was telling me. That the baby had stopped growing at 8 and a half weeks. And there was no heartbeat. </div>
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I laid in shock for awhile. I was just trying to understand. I knew what this meant, but still felt confused if it really meant it was all over. A few tears later she left the room and allowed me to dress. She came back soon after to talk about the rest of the process. When she started to let me know what my options were and how everything else was going to go, I cried more. No one tells you these things. I knew that it wasn't just done and that's it and you move on with your life. But no one tells you about the process. </div>
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This last week has been one of the hardest we have ever had to face, both physically and emotionally. But even in the midst of our loss we have felt extremely blessed by our family and friends. We've watched the church be the church, first hand. When I couldn't imagine having to break the news to one more person, we had people who told them for us. When I was desperately scared about what my body was about to go through, I had someone to talk to about their own experience. During the toughest and hardest days we knew that many people were praying for us. And all of that is what got us through the thick of it.<br />
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Many have asked how they can help and unfortunately there just isn't a lot that can be done or said. People have offered to bring us meals and we of course will accept them, but please be sensitive to the fact that we are not up for entertaining. Even sitting and crying with someone else is too hard right now. Text messages are okay but we aren't ready for phone calls.<br />
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We don't know what happens from here. We don't know if or when we might try again. We don't know specifically why this happened, and we especially don't know why this happens to some and not to others.<br />
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We do know that we will never be the same, and we desperately miss someone we never got to meet.</div>
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Tanyahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12462983872912418410noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6381474108666095174.post-14690651300837126382016-08-16T18:30:00.000-07:002016-08-20T16:48:52.324-07:00Senior Photos<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDiKc-9zrFWb7Bm0HLuzThl21GW3VChueObfh3VwLDyULxKmpwpgDTWBHMrLV87XgfaPf4K8QpMryJ2VvV4rb6ZK0OlC52FN5pm2lsX9zPTc8PfbJARaXFnM8zbYwblEUbGef4SE2JNuk/s1600/Elise_237_3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDiKc-9zrFWb7Bm0HLuzThl21GW3VChueObfh3VwLDyULxKmpwpgDTWBHMrLV87XgfaPf4K8QpMryJ2VvV4rb6ZK0OlC52FN5pm2lsX9zPTc8PfbJARaXFnM8zbYwblEUbGef4SE2JNuk/s1600/Elise_237_3.jpg" /></a></div>
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This fall I will be booking sessions for senior photos and portraits!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYQU9rdEsHt5yo7xqmC6N7eW2CFZrgTM74FwwGjkmztNisYuWk3vfZ-nKtgCCTRCfwqJFXy1IpMye46mN5SSbMvlicQfVl2usMg0EXzj_mhXvtPoMayGFsajEMEJ3O8337dpMcnJdr9xU/s1600/Photographic.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYQU9rdEsHt5yo7xqmC6N7eW2CFZrgTM74FwwGjkmztNisYuWk3vfZ-nKtgCCTRCfwqJFXy1IpMye46mN5SSbMvlicQfVl2usMg0EXzj_mhXvtPoMayGFsajEMEJ3O8337dpMcnJdr9xU/s1600/Photographic.png" /></a></div>
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I'm offering a referral program as well, if you refer a friend you will receive $15 and your friend receives $5 off their session!</div>
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<a href="http://www.levelandlace.com/p/contact.html">Contact me</a> for more information.</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">(At this time I will only be offering single or couple sessions.)</span></div>
<br />Tanyahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12462983872912418410noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6381474108666095174.post-82278612418068561792015-10-10T16:37:00.000-07:002015-10-10T16:37:03.035-07:00Robinson Family sneak peak + some transparency<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwo8fWnm65AltAF2UQiE3zs3_kIfN-E14HGdEdXI_rmXzpFnp64o7G8T53SjKlPLZYZuTfNra0D-0qO1DGnHtlL8ph-P4XyKq0FnhPJ1-e8fAGhf90Qst0Fk_MAkvLo5n1zo0svwK8Hfs/s1600/PicMonkey+Collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwo8fWnm65AltAF2UQiE3zs3_kIfN-E14HGdEdXI_rmXzpFnp64o7G8T53SjKlPLZYZuTfNra0D-0qO1DGnHtlL8ph-P4XyKq0FnhPJ1-e8fAGhf90Qst0Fk_MAkvLo5n1zo0svwK8Hfs/s1600/PicMonkey+Collage.jpg" /></a></div>
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I had a lot of fun chasing around this little family today. Literally, I think I ran for the entire hour. But it was an honor.<br />
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Here is where things get real... I've been so hesitant to call myself a photographer for fear of seeming like a fraud.<br />
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There are so many talented photographers out there, I couldn't possibly measure up to their experience or expertise. One of my best friend's parents saw a few pictures I took of her daughter and from there work has sort of fallen into my lap. She hired me to take her son's senior pictures, then prom pictures, then gave away photo sessions with me as a gift to some of her friends. I have often wondered if this is where this little adventure is going to end, just being one family's personal photographer. I don't think that would be half bad. I've never set a price or even asked for money. In fact, I'm often prompt to say, "Sure, I'll take some pictures, but I'm not a professional." I always feel inadequate, but I do it anyway. <br />
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Then this week a stranger called me. She had gotten my number from a friend (one of the girls who got the baby shower gift), she had seen my work and wanted to book a session. I realized that I can either continue to say, "No, I'm not good enough" and try to talk people out of believing in me, or I can just accept that maybe there is something here. What that something is, I'm not sure, but I feel like this is an avenue worth exploring.<br />
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All this to say, this spring I will officially be launching a part time photography business. I feel like the <i>part-time</i> is an important part of that, since I have no plans on leaving my day job. I'm excited to see where this goes. Look for a new website soon. :)Tanyahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12462983872912418410noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6381474108666095174.post-58005013307555722732015-08-16T21:39:00.002-07:002015-08-16T21:39:35.308-07:00Navy Blue and Natural Wood<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Our bedroom has always been the most neglected room in our house. We have never taken the time to decorate or put up photos. But since we have moved (incase you didn't know, we moved back in May into a beautiful townhouse. We are loving it!) the rest of our house didn't really need a lot of attention. So I'm making it a priority to have a bedroom that I enjoy being in. Maybe that will help me keep up with the laundry?</div>
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We have been looking for a new dresser for awhile. Every time we visit ikea we consider buying one, but I am never able to bring myself to spend $350 on a dresser. Perhaps it is a completely reasonable price, but I am cheap. Insert this beauty:</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHLtM4SXRsBc1V7py9x5UNmXy0pFMw1mht2AadnacmEmTIE8CmcbOt3vOthswWcUtwo0UgRBAozgnXU8LbNEris6suh4_42sAC8TgpfaDe5kn7VsIwVCuDQbVQNMSvdWkG5BgOETbsnQQ/s1600/dresser_22_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHLtM4SXRsBc1V7py9x5UNmXy0pFMw1mht2AadnacmEmTIE8CmcbOt3vOthswWcUtwo0UgRBAozgnXU8LbNEris6suh4_42sAC8TgpfaDe5kn7VsIwVCuDQbVQNMSvdWkG5BgOETbsnQQ/s1600/dresser_22_1.jpg" /></a></div>
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A month or so ago Alex and I were on our way home when we spotted one of our neighbors having a garage sale. Long story short, we walked away with a dresser, painting, milk glass fruit bowl, and a golf club for 50 bucks. Such a steal!<br />
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We let it sit in our garage for awhile, trying to decide what we wanted to do. We were about to head to the store to buy white paint when I decided to Pinterest navy blue dressers. I came across this gorgeous piece of furniture art at <a href="http://www.southernrevivals.com/2012/10/uncle-joes-1800s-dresser.html">SouthernRevivals.com</a>. Please go look at her page, the transformation she did on this dresser is just phenomenal. Obviously ours is a completely different style, but I loved the color scheme.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpLcpuugQfZMKZ7e5i9fAPLS5Sy8VGp7UMXhT0NAisswZAXrhha_iD4L6JPJKztbTq1BBnDrJHfYYxBpfM8sb2Oxlg1e7PYWIvxKozRiJjV_ImFhY6mXM2FgoFD2-jXdHh5zil0icmCYE/s1600/blue+dresser.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpLcpuugQfZMKZ7e5i9fAPLS5Sy8VGp7UMXhT0NAisswZAXrhha_iD4L6JPJKztbTq1BBnDrJHfYYxBpfM8sb2Oxlg1e7PYWIvxKozRiJjV_ImFhY6mXM2FgoFD2-jXdHh5zil0icmCYE/s1600/blue+dresser.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.southernrevivals.com/2012/10/uncle-joes-1800s-dresser.html">via</a></td></tr>
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I'm not very good at distressing, nor do I think it would look well in our house. Not really our style. But I did want the natural wood look. So this is what we came up with.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTREHk4T0-I4ZquUT1Jr1sIHjqNapah2wSy05iuDl12gPQTUGOxqo5CpEF3FFU0fqh7_e8wqE6YrPQH0BO4r3J4Omys6opjSxB68Rn8I_ZNBCcG8_kM-D2xCx9OeeOAmW7lJk57dRn2Mc/s1600/dresser_5_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTREHk4T0-I4ZquUT1Jr1sIHjqNapah2wSy05iuDl12gPQTUGOxqo5CpEF3FFU0fqh7_e8wqE6YrPQH0BO4r3J4Omys6opjSxB68Rn8I_ZNBCcG8_kM-D2xCx9OeeOAmW7lJk57dRn2Mc/s1600/dresser_5_1.jpg" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGwHeh_hsWhjUhGzF8IJL5_TEBl26acYFMYZv02ri3ZB2b0PMEHIf31i_8VvlJ4Pdo6QblUgINCHEENjwbIF2W4GuNyggy8vHmmDcQ9R6lLLWoRdxh4bJ5A5phdoshZXEPBfyChVDQU1k/s1600/dressercollage_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGwHeh_hsWhjUhGzF8IJL5_TEBl26acYFMYZv02ri3ZB2b0PMEHIf31i_8VvlJ4Pdo6QblUgINCHEENjwbIF2W4GuNyggy8vHmmDcQ9R6lLLWoRdxh4bJ5A5phdoshZXEPBfyChVDQU1k/s1600/dressercollage_1.jpg" /></a></div>
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I'm in love! We stripped the paint off the top two drawers and stained them with a dark dark walnut. It turned out just as good as I had hoped. We don't usually go with dark colors but this added such a great dynamic to the scheme of our room.<br />
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Here is one more before and after picture for good measure.<br />
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Have a wonderful week!Tanyahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12462983872912418410noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6381474108666095174.post-11385336438143449962015-08-02T19:06:00.000-07:002015-08-02T19:06:29.588-07:00Automatic Focus<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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It's funny how much life changes. How a year ago I was one person and today I am someone new. The other day I spent a some time reading back through my old posts. It was fun to see what my thoughts were like at different times in my life. How passionate I was about some subject. The things I thought were funny. The things I felt inclined to share and those I didn't.<br />
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It really brought to light how much I have changed over time, and especially made me feel like I'm becoming a grown up. My thoughts and feelings have matured. I am less emotional about things and more logical (for the most part).<br />
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A few months ago I got a job, a grown up job. A career beginning job. I have a regular schedule. I am usually in bed by 9 or 9:30, and if I'm not I really pay for it the next day. I've started to make grown up choices, like paying my bills instead of buying new clothes. Every morning I get up, get ready, and head to work. After a solid 8 hours of working, I come home, head to the gym, eat dinner, and go to bed just to have it all begin again the next morning.<br />
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Twenty year old me hates who I have become. She hates the lack of adventure. The same thing day in and day out. She hates that I sold out for a career, in a field I never saw myself in. And the only thing I have to say to twenty year old me is that she was wrong. That along the way life changes, and having a life you never thought you wanted can be better than the one you imagined. It may look boring, but its actually peaceful. And peace is something I have definitely been missing in my life.<br />
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For the first time I think I know what contentment looks like. It doesn't mean my life is perfect, it means that I can rest for a little while. I can stop striving for something more than I have been given. There are certainly things I would change if I could. Relationships I would mend. Circumstances I would erase. But in this moment I don't have control over those things and I'm letting them go.<br />
<br />Tanyahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12462983872912418410noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6381474108666095174.post-18864443852086370112015-07-26T11:57:00.001-07:002015-07-26T11:57:33.937-07:00An itch...It has been quite awhile since I've blogged. So long in fact that I'm not even sure how or where to begin. This post doesn't necessarily mean that I'm back to blogging. It means, I've missed writing. And the strangest part is that I've missed writing for an audience, even if that is only an audience of one or two family members. Every time something happens in my life, big or small, I want to write about it.<br />
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After <i>several</i> months of not posting I started to feel like it might be time to close that chapter of my life. To let my domain names expire and officially delete my blog. The primary reason why I haven't deleted it is basically just because it took effort.</div>
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There are so many things I don't miss about blogging. Like the pressure I put on myself to make it "successful", to have a lot of followers and dozens of page views every day. And after quitting my job almost 3 years ago, the goal was to try to make some money. It killed writing for me. I felt so anxious about it. When all I really ever wanted was a place to write sometimes and document pictures when and if I felt like posting them. My life became consumed with how good my outfits looked and whether we had a project going on. Every encounter became about how I could turn this into a compelling blog post. Once I got too busy for my blog I realized how silly and petty all of that was. I started to live my life based on what I enjoy and not based on what would make the best posts. After I stepped away I saw that shift from people reading blogs to people reading instagram feeds. I aaw all the comments about how they are annoyed when their favorite bloggers became advertisers in order to make a living from their blog. I saw bloggers switch from one platform to another to maintain their following. And I didn't miss it.<br />
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What I did miss was having a place to write when I have something to say. A place to share the very minimal projects that I still work on. Insta-blogging is not for me. Long winded facebook posts? No thanks. That is where blogging differs. People go to facebook and instagram to zone out, when people click on my blog they want to read what <i>I</i> have to say, and if they get bored, they leave. And what I'm left with is a place where I get to share what I want without being an annoying post they have to scroll past. If people want to read they can, and if they don't they won't.</div>
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That is why I have missed this, and that is why this blog still exists. Even with that desire to delete it, there is still some part of me that wants a place to write. And so, I might be back, and I might not. We'll see if I have more things to say.</div>
Tanyahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12462983872912418410noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6381474108666095174.post-15777246061949858982014-12-25T07:42:00.000-08:002014-12-25T07:42:07.487-08:00New tradition | A Christmas failureAlex and I started a new tradition yesterday, something we have wanted to do ever since we got married, but haven't been able to until this year.<br />
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Christmas chocolate chip scones for breakfast!<br />
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I made Alex chocolate chip scones one time before we started dating, and I think that was the day I won over his heart. This is his all time favorite recipe of mine, so I figured I had to make them as a treat for Christmas morning.<br />
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This recipe was put together from a mixture of other recipes I had found, plus one 'special' ingredient. Typically they turn out delicious... this year was an exception. I failed to follow my own recipe and used baking soda instead of baking powder, which apparently is a big no-no for flavor! Somehow, Alex claims he can't even tell the difference. Trust me, there is a difference, and it is unmistakeable. Hopefully I never mix those two up again!<br />
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<span style="color: #e06666; font-size: large;">Ingredients</span><br />
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<span class="s1">3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour</span></div>
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<span class="s1">6 tbsp sugar</span></div>
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<span class="s1">5 tsp baking <i><b>powder</b></i></span></div>
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<span class="s1">1 tsp salt</span></div>
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<span class="s1">*2/3 cup <a href="http://allrecipes.com/recipe/honey-butter-2/">honey butter</a>, or <a href="http://allrecipes.com/recipe/sweet-butter/">sweet butter </a> </span></div>
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<span class="s1">2 eggs</span></div>
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<span class="s1">Mini chocolate chips</span></div>
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<span class="s1">Half and half or evaporated milk</span></div>
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<span class="s1">Vanilla</span></div>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span class="s1"><span style="font-size: x-small;">*You can still use regular butter, I just prefer using a sweet butter. It just adds an extra bit of flavor.</span></span></blockquote>
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<span style="color: #e06666; font-size: large;"><span class="s1"></span>Directions</span></div>
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<span class="s1">Pre-heat oven to 400 degrees. The mix flour, sugar, baking <i><b>powder</b></i>, and salt. </span>Cut butter into mixture until it resembles fine crumbs. Stir in eggs, desired amount of chocolate chips, and a drop of vanilla. Slowly begin adding half and half, about a Tbsp at a time, only add enough to bring the dough off the sides of the bowl. Roll onto a well floured surface and cut into wedges. Brush with beaten egg, and sprinkle with sugar (if desired). Bake for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown.</div>
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Recipe yields 10-15 large scones. Dough can be stored in freezer up to 4 months.</div>
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I'm not an expert baker, or cook for that matter (obviously) but this is one recipe I am typically proud of. I'll just have to make a new <i>good</i> batch.<br />
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Hope everyone had a terrific holiday!<br />
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Tanyahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12462983872912418410noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6381474108666095174.post-34093687151641696592014-03-30T16:32:00.000-07:002015-07-26T11:42:40.539-07:00<br />
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Today marks a mile stone for me. I photographed my first wedding! Throughout the events of the day, running around, sweat, tears, achey feet and unkept itineraries (isn't that always the case?), I couldn't help but wonder if this is the first and last, or first of many weddings I will be photographing. The answer I've come to is, I just don't know.<br />
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My respect for true professional, experienced photographers has grown by leaps and bounds. I've always tried to have an appreciation for the art, and certainly for those that are skilled in it. So many people like to call themselves photographers but lack the true talent needed, especially in an event situation. That is why I steer very clear of ever calling myself a photographer. I enjoy taking pictures, and even feel like I take good photos most of the time, but being a photographer is so much more than that. Anyone who has asked me to photograph their wedding (ok, there has been two thus far) has been told very clearly, "I am NOT a professional photographer!" I am willing to take pictures, but it is very important to me to never advertise myself as something more than I am.<br />
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I'm just a girl with a decently nice camera who enjoys photography.<br />
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I'm very aware, especially after today, of my strengths and weaknesses. I'm so sad to say that I missed some very important moments during this wedding. Due to complications with my camera, equipment, poor judgement of lighting, poor preparation and planning. Which is a very distinct difference between what I do and what a true professional photographer does. They are experienced. They know the moments like the back of their hand. They are poised and ready for those very special key moments that happen during a wedding, that pass by in the blink of an eye, literally! Their skill for capturing the precise moment when the grooms eyes meet the brides for the very first time. Those are things you have to anticipate far in advance.<br />
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Paul and Sue. Oh boy, this couple, they are so darling! I was called on Thursday about possibly doing their photos after their photographer had a last minute emergency. I was so nervous to say yes, fearing I wouldn't be the right fit, that I wouldn't get the photos needed or wanted. But this couple was so laid back and happy, they were fine with whatever I could do.<br />
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I was thanked numerous times today for stepping in at the last minute. But truly, from the bottom of my heart, I have to say thank you to the Udell and Anderson families! Today has blessed me so much more than you know. It was an honor and a privilege to photograph this wedding. Thank you thank you for your patients and kindness toward me today. It made my first wedding an overwhelmingly joyous experience, and has definitely calmed my nerves about the potential of doing more photography in the future.<br />
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Hopefully this post has not made anyone fearful to see the photos I've taken! I'm very happy to report that I got a very good amount of bright, clear beautiful photos! But like I said, some opportunities were missed, which I am so remorseful about.<br />
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Over the next few weeks I will be weeding through these 3000 photos (!!!!) and hope to share a handful of my absolute favorites soon. But for now just take in this photo of the beautiful Ceremony.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAkAWjCvVg1KHjTkkPONjllvp3q6oGo3wj1cybIqAmShgVS0PstUfSKZ0MiL0s8AKeg63DCYseGJJniYhJ1CYW4ei8YQ-49MLEjFK3BxcyTfaGLK4j9plRzHIYntnyhHr1DACLNPgy2fQ/s1600/Anderson_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAkAWjCvVg1KHjTkkPONjllvp3q6oGo3wj1cybIqAmShgVS0PstUfSKZ0MiL0s8AKeg63DCYseGJJniYhJ1CYW4ei8YQ-49MLEjFK3BxcyTfaGLK4j9plRzHIYntnyhHr1DACLNPgy2fQ/s1600/Anderson_1.jpg" /></a><span style="font-size: large;">To Paul and Sue</span>, I wish you all the joy in the world for this journey you have just begun with each other. Your faith in both God and each other was touching and was felt throughout your wedding. From the small amount of time I was able to spend with your family, I have seen that you have an outstanding support system! I'm so excited for you!Tanyahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12462983872912418410noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6381474108666095174.post-20252921981808397732014-02-25T11:59:00.001-08:002014-02-25T11:59:30.907-08:00A mental pause<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">For months now I've been telling myself I need to sit down and write. To tell you guys what is going on in my life. To get all of the millions of thoughts out on paper. But I just haven't taken the time to do it.</span><div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><br></span></div><div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">I remember when I started this new blog I thought, "I'm going to keep this blog focused and simple. I don't want to blog about all those millions of things that I used to blog about." And then after cutting out all of the "me" part of blogging I realized how much I actually just love to write. Mostly just because I get so bogged down with thoughts and emotions that if I don't take a second to write about it it will plague me for weeks.</span></div><div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><br></span></div><div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">To be honest I've actually written quite a bit lately. I just haven't felt the need to share those things. Like when we lost our kitty back in November. That was a painful time. I had about 18 million emotions and guilts and yadda yadda that I had to get out. Once it was out of me I felt so much freedom and healing from that. So I decided to start sharing some parts of me that I've kept out of this blog recently. Mostly because that is just what my life is right now. I'm not full of DIY projects or fashion posts. I'm mostly just living my life and going through all of the emotions that come with it.</span></div><div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><br></span></div><div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">If you get to know me you'll find out that I'm a pretty emotional person. I cry all the time. For a long time I tried to hide that fact about myself. It made me feel so out of control and weak. Recently I sort of came to terms with that part of myself and I'm trying not to hold that back from everyone in my life.</span></div><div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><br></span></div><div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">I remember I saw a counselor back in college (well, my first time in college) for a phase of depression I was going through. They prescribed me some anti-depressants and were asking me about some of the symptoms that I experience that we could monitor to ensure they were working properly. "Is this crying a normal thing?" Looking back I think I just took that question and began to use it to analyze my emotional health on my own. "Crap, I'm crying again, I must be depressed." But in reality I think I just needed to learn to understand where those emotions were coming from and how to let them out in a healthy way. Instead of simply medicating them.</span></div><div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><br></span></div><div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Anyways, this post was really just to say that I hope to begin to share a little more with you guys as I find time to sit down and write. It may not be glamorous or maybe even all that interesting, but I feel the need to share a few things.</span></div><div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><br></span></div><div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">(( Oh and for those of you (ahem*Kayla) who wanted to know more about the Influence conference, I do plan to share. I even have photos that are still sitting on my memory card. There was so much I had to process through after the event that for awhile I couldn't figure out how to put it into words. But I suppose it is time I sit down and do that. ))</span></div><div><span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><br></span></div>Tanyahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12462983872912418410noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6381474108666095174.post-34656556332298783482014-01-06T09:46:00.000-08:002014-01-06T09:52:44.930-08:00Some News<div>
<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Hello Everyone! Well I have some unfortunate news to share today. If you've been following me on instagram or read my last blog post you know that I had been planning to do an instagram flash sale to help support Natalie and Dan's adoption. However some personal things have come up for my family which has left me with no time to make and organize my products. Due to this I'm unfortunately going to have to cancel the sale indefinitely.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">I'm so sad that I am not able to help this couple out, but I know this adoption is so much bigger than me. I knew from the beginning that my little shop could not fund this entire adoption. So I'm still going to share with you guys about this amazing couple. And if you feel a desire to help here are some ways you can support them:</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">1. Pray for them! This is an anxious time for them as they await news about their boys!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">2. Donate funds! </span><a href="http://littlethingsbigstuff.com/join-our-adventure/" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">Check out this page</a><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"> to find all the ways you can donate.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">3. If you have a handmade business or shop, consider donating a portion of your funds and sponsoring this couple! Visit her </span><a href="http://littlethingsbigstuff.com/" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">blog</a><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"> or </span><a href="https://twitter.com/natalie_e_s" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">twitter</a><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"> to get in contact with Natalie.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">I don't know Natalie or Dan. I've never met them. I got connected with Natalie via the Influence Network because I was looking for an adopting family to help support. Through Natalie's blog and instagram I have fallen in love with this little family. I can't wait to see the day when they get to bring their little boys home! Sometimes we just cannot explain how or why God brings certain people into our lives, and that is how I feel about Natalie!</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">I've got her here today to share a little bit about herself and some information about her adoption.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgT5eYJPh0ZWpM-EAoG81DpE2DvG94dO3zxvjeDlkQyWMSYIX0m7u6Zk6Sdvu9QAU5jB_W8BPBP7qv_x1P-w-YKGrsGSnOctU8SeEEC50xnr5aJ7OxB53RK2ixOyh06cHf5Z2nLTdkzWE0/s640/blogger-image--1973169733.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgT5eYJPh0ZWpM-EAoG81DpE2DvG94dO3zxvjeDlkQyWMSYIX0m7u6Zk6Sdvu9QAU5jB_W8BPBP7qv_x1P-w-YKGrsGSnOctU8SeEEC50xnr5aJ7OxB53RK2ixOyh06cHf5Z2nLTdkzWE0/s640/blogger-image--1973169733.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Hi, I'm Natalie. I'm married to Dan. Things you should know about us:</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">+ We got married 11 months after our first date. Dan was in his last year of med school, and I was in my last year of social work grad school.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">+ Currently, Dan is in his first year of residency. He works in the ER departments of several hospitals in our city. I write home studies for foster and adoptive parents (and read a lot of blogs).</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">+ We really like exploring our city, playing Mario Kart, walking our crazy dog, and watching Parks &amp; Recreation. (Have you seen it? So good.)</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">+ Our plan has always been to adopt as the main method of adding little ones (and not-so-little ones?) to our family. We planned to wait three years to do this. Because we're poor and busy, I guess.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">+ God threw the best kind of wrench into our plans, and we began praying about the possibility of adopting two months into our marriage.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">+ After much prayer and consideration, we were overjoyed to begin the adoption process in May 2012 at the ages of 24 and 25 with a low income and a lot of student debt. It is doable!</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">+ We requested one child, a boy or girl between birth and six months. Again, God had other plans. We are adopting twin 1.5-year-old boys from Central Africa!</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">+ These boys are the cutest. Theo is taller and heavier. He's always smiling or giving mischievous glances at the camera. Elliot seems to be shy, and he likes to suck on his index and middle fingers. He looks so apprehensive in pictures by himself, but when they push Theo beside him, he smiles.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">+ Unfortunately, we've hit a lot of delays recently as their birth country's adoption process has grown and changed. We are far past the date we thought we'd have them in our arms. We tried to not hope and plan for a certain date, but we did.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">+ We've had their referral for over a year now. They live in a foster home, and we are so grateful for how clearly loved and happy they are. We are gladly paying a monthly foster care fee which includes wages for the foster parents, diapers, and food. Because they've been in foster care longer than we expected, these expenses are adding up.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">+ Additionally, we have one big agency payment and travel expenses. We have never let the money scare us. We trust God will provide this, as He has everything else.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">+ We ache to meet these boys. But we have fought against making adoption an ultimate in our lives. It's cliché but so true: Our identity is in Christ. Not in being waiting adoptive parents. And not in being the young couple that pursued adoption quickly.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Tanya has been so generous toward us, and we're so grateful! If you'd like to get to know us more, you can do so </span><span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><a href="http://littlethingsbigstuff.com/">here</a>!</span><br />
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I hope everyone has an enjoyable week! Thanks for your support!<br />
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Tanyahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12462983872912418410noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6381474108666095174.post-81315766642834392842013-12-20T12:36:00.000-08:002013-12-20T12:48:47.057-08:00This has nothing to do with Christmas<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj07k01DnUX3SF7skhfKnJ4_YHjOuKa0-KCyttdJRl2f1CukomFlD078ofGdyuyjBC8D9yJImpy91bi6r06oXRJKR7oytkyPD60iDm1hHOw4R1eRYoAHSPNviYe4iGnSZUExlXPsfR2iVw/s1600/lovesweater3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj07k01DnUX3SF7skhfKnJ4_YHjOuKa0-KCyttdJRl2f1CukomFlD078ofGdyuyjBC8D9yJImpy91bi6r06oXRJKR7oytkyPD60iDm1hHOw4R1eRYoAHSPNviYe4iGnSZUExlXPsfR2iVw/s1600/lovesweater3.jpg" /></a></div>
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This post has been sitting in draft mode for awhile and I figured it was time to share.<br />
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Over the last several months I've been struggling to balance all the areas of my life. You know the cliché saying about wearing too many hats? And spreading yourself too thin? I might be guilty of that.<br />
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As you know I started my business this summer. I loved it, I wanted to run full force with it. Orders started to really pile up, and as much as I was excited about that, I was also incredibly overwhelmed. At the time I thought that, even though it was a lot of work, it was what I wanted. I was looking for a way to use my gifts to make money. After attending the <a href="http://www.theinfluenceconference.com/">Influence Conference</a> I was further encouraged to run with that passion and do what I could with it.<br />
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And then I came home, reality sunk in, and I hit that all too familiar wall of paralysis that comes when you put too much on your plate.<br />
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See, not only was I trying to run a business, but I'm also a full time college student. Some of you might be thinking, "well, if you don't have a job that doesn't seem like such a big deal." And others may be thinking, "that was kind of stupid to start a business while you are in school."<br />
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There is truth in both of those statements. I could probably do it. I could probably work really hard and have a decently successful business and attend school, and maintain a decent GPA. But that is all I would have. A potentially thriving business and a decent GPA. All the while forgetting what matters most to me.<br />
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Peace<br />
Joy<br />
Family<br />
Alex<br />
Friends<br />
<i><span style="font-size: large;">Sanity</span></i><br />
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I've done a lot of praying lately. About the path I am taking in school, about my business, about if I'm seeking God in everything or if I am just trying to control things myself. I've discovered that I need to scale back in areas that don't align with my God given desires and that inhibit me from reaching my true potential.<br />
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One of the biggest changes (well at least for you guys) will be the closing of my business. <i>Not permanently!</i> Just seasonally. Obviously planners are pretty much a seasonal product anyways so this just kind of seemed like a no brainer. I'll be relaunching next spring/summer with new designs and a more organized business plan.<br />
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In the mean time, I've been trying to help support a family who is adopting two boys from Africa with the sales from my business. Since I still have lots of this seasons stock left I figured it was a good time to clear everything out and do a flash sale! If you follow me on <a href="http://instagram.com/p/iIN1YKIlW-/">instagram </a>you probably saw some information about this. Right now I've got an instagram giveaway going on with a friend of mine from <a href="http://topknotsandpearls.blogspot.com/">Topknots and Pearls Crafts</a>.<br />
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Check out the giveaway, <i>share the giveaway. </i>I'm just doing it to try to help raise some funds for this family. I'll be back next week sharing a little bit more on my heart behind this and some details about the sale and other ways you may be able to help.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhI5PcKcr9_58kRxGrf8jtrN6Wi-LKdSLDn34GM-C_guGdZ4PTtmYFU9ngj2nTIfNG5yZDQzT08Z_Mb3mXBj0nxStTEyG6vTcVLq5wcSUaQ_qvTZcwv66kiNLP0xkva48DubkB357ztuG4/s1600/giveaway4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhI5PcKcr9_58kRxGrf8jtrN6Wi-LKdSLDn34GM-C_guGdZ4PTtmYFU9ngj2nTIfNG5yZDQzT08Z_Mb3mXBj0nxStTEyG6vTcVLq5wcSUaQ_qvTZcwv66kiNLP0xkva48DubkB357ztuG4/s400/giveaway4.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />Tanyahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12462983872912418410noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6381474108666095174.post-75573185918227339632013-10-07T19:26:00.000-07:002013-10-07T20:47:50.951-07:00Recently | An engagement session<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I have a million things that I would love to tell you guys about right now. I also have a few posts that I've been working on since being home from the Influence conference that are currently in draft. As much as I would <i>love</i> to pour my heart out to you guys and tell you all about my trip, I'm still majorly processing. I've written stuff down, but honestly when it comes to posting it, I don't even know where to begin! I'll just say that there are some posts coming! I'm not sure when, but they are coming. They wont necessarily be all about my trip or even what was taught, but a lot of what I took away from it and the ways that it has changed my heart and my life. </div>
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For now I'll leave you with this sneak peek from an engagement session I just did with my niece and her fiancé! I did pictures for them right after they got engaged last September (<a href="http://www.levelandlace.com/2013/06/oldie.html">you can see those here</a>) and we got together for another session this last weekend. I'm not a professional, but it is really fun working on my skills with these willing subjects!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgh2hCN94pLmvwLAQgnvWd7z_VAOyQfjjDDuHSPN51w7PmZ_J4Du8e2biyhbsL2Fz96eauEa3d-9_rITqfOeav8b3D2nlK215BSeQiog3eq82y1byzX0tdahAFHEgUj8lvETzx8cluEbMo/s1600/Hayworth+engagement_2_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgh2hCN94pLmvwLAQgnvWd7z_VAOyQfjjDDuHSPN51w7PmZ_J4Du8e2biyhbsL2Fz96eauEa3d-9_rITqfOeav8b3D2nlK215BSeQiog3eq82y1byzX0tdahAFHEgUj8lvETzx8cluEbMo/s1600/Hayworth+engagement_2_1.jpg" /></a></div>
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Enjoy the rest of your week! I'll be back soon :)<br />
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<br />Tanyahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12462983872912418410noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6381474108666095174.post-23105280924619553952013-09-23T16:48:00.001-07:002013-09-23T17:20:33.163-07:00Finding Motivation<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3hn1itzSP-UljLIN9L7X8TK3GEaGBXH6Ti1dMTIn734M-tK9XbQEvONe3jTz507UAKzAAkWny1ugQRuweRnDiNOOmsUt8DAwNaIJ1Eb5xfCPUcIrIiB5XifHTbpQKnd6PTYbv-dWTE0E/s1600/Rain.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3hn1itzSP-UljLIN9L7X8TK3GEaGBXH6Ti1dMTIn734M-tK9XbQEvONe3jTz507UAKzAAkWny1ugQRuweRnDiNOOmsUt8DAwNaIJ1Eb5xfCPUcIrIiB5XifHTbpQKnd6PTYbv-dWTE0E/s1600/Rain.jpg" /></a></div>
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It's funny how much I feel like my dog picks up on my emotions. It's raining and cold and there are probably dozens of things I should be doing right now. Yet I feel a complete and utter lack of motivation. I haven't worked out regularly, slept well, or eaten healthy. Mostly because I lost that drive to keep my body healthy. And I'm not liking the results these actions are yielding. I've just felt there has been something missing. A sense of purpose maybe? I don't know. I could sit here and dwell on this all day, but it wouldn't accomplish anything.<br />
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I'm looking for a change. In all areas. How I eat, drink, breath, walk, work, cook, clean. I want to be healthy, happy, and<i> thankful. </i>Sometimes I just think that is what life is. A constant battle to better ourselves, to discover and live out our purpose, and to be happy while we do it.<br />
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Alex and I are working on a plan of attack for the both of us. We are starting with the way we spend money, which leads to the way we eat. Once we actually have a plan I'll share. Even though I know the motivation must come from us, sharing is a great way to feel accountable. If all I do is say "hey, we are going to try this out," and then we fail, I'll still feel like we have accomplished something. If we never try to change... we will never change. Kind of obvious, huh?<br />
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On a vaguely related topic, I'm afraid of what this blog will look like in a months time. I know I have never been good at keeping up with this and going to school at the same time. I'm making an effort this year to try not to be bulldozed by my classes and workload. I'm learning (ever so slowly) that it really just boils down to making the right choices, even when its not the most appealing choice.<br />
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That is how we are going to approach our change. Sometimes cleaning my house or cooking dinner may not be the most appealing option, but tomorrow I'll be thankful I did.<br />
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How do you deal with a lack of motivation?Tanyahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12462983872912418410noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6381474108666095174.post-59199572668515932792013-09-17T08:00:00.000-07:002013-09-17T11:07:13.310-07:00Fall15<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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You guys know I'm heading off to the Influence Conference (<i>next thursday!!) </i>right? If you can't tell, I am <strike>extremely</strike> a little excited. </div>
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Like I said a few months ago, I am paying for this trip with proceeds from <a href="http://levelandlace.etsy.com/">my shop</a>. As successful as my shop has been, I still haven't paid off my trip yet due to a lot of unforeseen business costs (bt dubs, owning a business is <i>expensive</i>). So in a last ditch effort I'm having a <i>one day only sale! </i>This Wednesday <a href="http://levelandlace.etsy.com/">my etsy shop</a> will officially be in vacation mode and I will finish up all orders before I leave for the conference. If you have been putting off ordering, now is your chance!</div>
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If you are going to be at the conference and were wanting to order a planner, email me (tanya@levelandlace.com) for a free shipping discount code and I'll bring your planner with me to the conference!</div>
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Thank you so much to those that have supported me along way! Maybe you just wanted a planner, but what you didn't know is that this trip wouldn't have been possible without you! Thank you!!</div>
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Tanyahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12462983872912418410noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6381474108666095174.post-91561119619032503602013-09-13T11:26:00.003-07:002013-09-13T11:44:00.199-07:00Getting organized<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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This week I finally got caught up enough with orders to make my own planner. Just in time for classes that start at the end of the month. I've been putting it off because I wanted to find the perfect cover for myself. It might be completely selfish, but since dozens of other people will have my planner and I wanted something unique. Trip after trip to the craft store I would find stuff that I liked but nothing I could settle on. Until I found this striped glitter paper. It's delicate and beautiful, and definitely different from all my other covers. I'm not going to be selling this particular cover, but I <i>might</i> do some of the other glitter covers. I'll let you know if that happens.<br />
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And for anyone who as emailed me, I'm so sorry if I haven't gotten back to you yet! I'm hoping to clear out my inbox by the end of the weekend.<br />
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Enjoy your weekend!Tanyahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12462983872912418410noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6381474108666095174.post-37768167211789647282013-09-12T08:00:00.000-07:002013-09-12T08:00:10.339-07:00I love love<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sweater & Jewelry: F21 // Skinnies: H&M // Wedges: Target // Glasses: My eye doctor (because I really do wear prescription lenses unlike all the other posers.)</td></tr>
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I took these pictures in hopes that maybe some day soon I can actually comfortably wear a sweater. Have you read my about page? <span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>"</i><span style="background-color: white;"><i style="line-height: 18px;">Every day that I can wear a sweater is a good day in my book." </i><span style="line-height: 18px;">I actually meant that.</span><i style="line-height: 18px;"> </i><span style="line-height: 18px;">We are getting some strange weather here right now and sweaters have not been in my daily wear. It has been deceivingly hot out for the past while. Deceiving because I wake up to wondrous clouds that trick me into thinking I can wear a jacket out on my walks and lay around in sweaters all day, when in reality it is 99 degrees and as humid as ever. Ok it is no wear near 99, but it is hot and that is my point.</span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="line-height: 18px;">Anyways, I'm not sure how this post ended up being about the weather. Let's talk about jeans shall we? Does anyone else have a nearly impossible time finding good skinny jeans? They are either too stretchy, <strike> I buy them a size too small</strike> they shrink in the dryer, they aren't the right color, etc... Insert these jeans. I'm not all about the light wash, but I love the color on these ones. Other than being about a million inches too long, they are great. I <i>love</i> the way they fit. I wore them to a buffet this weekend and I didn't leave feeling like I needed to change the instant I got home. I could probably lay around the house all day in them and be comfy. As a bonus they were actually less than 20 bucks! H&M was having a by one get one half off sale, so I also got them in black for 10 bucks.</span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="line-height: 18px;">Now if only fall would come...</span></span></span>Tanyahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12462983872912418410noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6381474108666095174.post-64739356134486075102013-09-11T08:00:00.000-07:002013-09-11T08:00:06.164-07:00#influenceconf<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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So I <a href="http://www.levelandlace.com/2013/08/working-from-home.html">briefly mentioned</a> awhile ago that I was going to the <a href="http://www.theinfluenceconference.com/">influence conference</a> at the end of September. Well, here I am only 2 weeks away! Can you believe summer is almost over? For those going to the conference, can you believe it is almost here?!?<br />
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I think this is one of those "pinch me" moments. Am I really going to a blogging conference? I can't wait to be around hundreds of women who will completely understand why I would want to go to a blogging conference. People in my personal life are like, "What? A conference for blogging? They have those?"<br />
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Well I'm a day late for this influence conference meet and greet linkup, but that's just my style. Fashionably late.<br />
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So <strike>two</strike> four things I absolutely must have with me on this trip...<br />
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{one} my phone. How else would I blow up instagram with all of my #influenceconf pictures?<br />
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{two} my laptop. enough said, right?<br />
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{three} My starbucks card. Because who wouldn't buy a ton of coffee that doubles as a tax write off?<br />
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{four} My camera. aka: my fourth baby. 2 cats, a dog, and my nikon.<br />
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And two things I'm looking forward to:<br />
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{one} this has nothing to do with the conference, but I can't wait to meet my long time blog friend <a href="http://modgarden.blogspot.com/">Greta from Modern Garden</a>!! She isn't actually going to the conference but lives somewhat close by and is going to drive up so we can meet! You know those people you just instantly connect with? That is Greta. We have only communicated through email/blog comments but I feel like I could talk with this girl for hours. (Don't worry mom, she is a real person!)<br />
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{two} I'm just excited to be out of my element. I am a very introverted person and being in a large crowd of people is going to be pretty intimidating, especially since I haven't actually met any of these people. I like pushing myself and I know that God has me there for a reason.<br />
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I can't wait to meet all of you beautiful ladies! Be sure to let me know if you will be there!Tanyahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12462983872912418410noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6381474108666095174.post-61702566967460420372013-09-09T08:00:00.000-07:002013-09-09T08:00:01.156-07:00Put a bird on it<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Top: Target // Maxi: H&M // Shoes (most amazingly comfortable flats ever): Urban Outfitters // Jewelry: F21</td></tr>
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Recently I went through the registration process on <a href="http://stitchfix.com/sign_up?referrer_id=3165098">Stitch Fix</a> and one of the questions (and by one I really mean like 20) was about what styles I like. (This outfit, by the way, has nothing to do with stitch fix.) I went back and forth several times before I could settle on an actual style(s) and which ones I tend to wear the most. I don't really feel like I have one particular style, I pretty much like all of them. As long as it doesn't involve 5 inch heels, I'm game. I'll follow trends. I like simple and classic. Some days I like to look rocker/punk-ish (big ish there). Other days I like to look sophisticated and polished. And according to this bandana, I also like to try to be gangsta/ housemaid/ Rosie The Riveter.<br />
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My husband says I'm eclectic. I like to mix and match, and by match I of course mean making sure things don't.<br />
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Eclectic... Sure, I'll accept that.Tanyahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12462983872912418410noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6381474108666095174.post-57742172682546182082013-09-03T08:00:00.000-07:002013-09-03T08:00:11.182-07:00The Question<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXM8X3cSg9qqGM4KkgW7Od0W_aDd0wywe1H1AAZGoY9VxECFlotCODV91nVoYPO0Erl2UqImV_BaZeP_Iw7IrcI0DSuBJPBv-EKD5JP4npTn09LSSINAoT1YViTh_o8gMvFNAM7pTKdEA/s1600/Alex_me3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXM8X3cSg9qqGM4KkgW7Od0W_aDd0wywe1H1AAZGoY9VxECFlotCODV91nVoYPO0Erl2UqImV_BaZeP_Iw7IrcI0DSuBJPBv-EKD5JP4npTn09LSSINAoT1YViTh_o8gMvFNAM7pTKdEA/s1600/Alex_me3.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.levelandlace.com/2013/06/bow-ties.html">outfit details</a></td></tr>
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There is a question that as a married woman I get asked all the time. Nearly once a week.<br />
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"When are you having kids?"<br />
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I totally understand the question. It is only the natural next step, especially after being married for (almost) four years.<br />
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Lots of my friends have kids, or are trying for kids, or want kids but are waiting for the "right time". I think being a mom is a wonderful gift. It seems to make life deeper and more meaningful. You get to share a love for someone that you never knew you could have. At least this is what I have gathered from those that have children.<br />
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But I feel like there is something that I have to get off my chest about all this.<br />
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<i>I don't want kids.</i><br />
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There I said it. I may be completely kicked out of any blogging friend circle I ever thought I would be a part of. When I tell people this they usually just stare at me for a little while, ask me why, and then tell me that I will be a great mom and I'll change my mind some day. Or they ask,"Well who is going to take care of you when you get older?" Or tell me I am going to be really lonely. There is a whole list of responses I get with the underlying theme that I am a selfish person and will grow up to be old and bitter. The only thing I have to say to all that is that I know a lot of amazing, loving, selfless people who chose not to have children. I know you think it is impossible, but it happens.<br />
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If you are just sitting and waiting for me to tell you my reasons, you are probably going to keep waiting because I don't really have any. Many women tell me that being a mother was their calling. They knew from a very young age that they were going to be a mother.<br />
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<i>I didn't. </i><br />
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My mother can tell you that from a very young age I have said that I <i>wasn't </i>going to have children. At best I said I would have <a href="http://www.worldvision.org/">World Vision</a> children.<br />
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There have definitely been times in my life that I thought I would grow out of this. There is still the chance that I will change my mind. Of course there is always the chance that I will get pregnant regardless of my desires or efforts not to. I'm ok with that. If God wants me to have children I'm sure I will, and I will love them with all my heart and be eternally thankful for them. I'll tell them that it was never my plan to have children, but that I am so happy I did because they make my life richer every day.<br />
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I don't think less of women who choose to be mothers. I have the utmost respect for mothers. I still like to hang out with them. I don't feel like they are less of a person or that I could never possibly have anything in common with them. I don't resent them for bringing their kids along for lunch dates or shopping trips. Or when they have to ignore our conversation to pay attention to their child. I totally get it. I know that having lunch with me will take the backseat to making sure their child is feed and had their afternoon nap, or just having a good day in general.<br />
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I have been surrounded by children my entire life. I have over a dozen nieces and nephews, the first which was born when I was five and some which lived with my family at different times. I may not entirely know what being a mother is like, but I know what it is like to hang out with one and I enjoy it all the same.<br />
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I suppose the only thing I ask from the world is just not to judge me. I still strive to be a giving and loving person. I try not to judge the moms with the screaming kids in the grocery stores, because I have no idea what it is like to be in their shoes.<br />
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We don't all have the same calling. Yours may be to be a mother. Maybe mine isn't?Tanyahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12462983872912418410noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6381474108666095174.post-8540680999048915962013-08-27T14:00:00.000-07:002013-08-27T19:11:38.039-07:00A crime against dressersEver since things took off in my shop I've been in dire need of an office makeover/ finish unpacking/ organization. So this past weekend Alex and I did as much work as we could on that front. Starting with adding some sort of storage for all my stuff.<br />
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About two years ago we picked up this <i>beautiful</i> *sarcasm* dresser at a garage sale. I'm pretty sure these people thought they were never <i>ever</i> going to sell this thing, but alas Alex and I came to their rescue. They practically paid us to take it it was so cheap.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRON2TRQa_N5k_V_Y75EIBDsDzC8VVVDUMcOSgdWBbyrGbcR1u9VY5JGL2U2uhSB8Oj0LrxnFwQ5UvhE2QLh_X3J0bKmJK8cikVXHUDyOPYa_umcbulQh7K8gony2RqcgMkOxl2GGh_z8/s1600/dresser1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRON2TRQa_N5k_V_Y75EIBDsDzC8VVVDUMcOSgdWBbyrGbcR1u9VY5JGL2U2uhSB8Oj0LrxnFwQ5UvhE2QLh_X3J0bKmJK8cikVXHUDyOPYa_umcbulQh7K8gony2RqcgMkOxl2GGh_z8/s1600/dresser1.jpg" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSUnSfSUYmXQGOChyphenhyphensqplPGvUQrhC2uRm0klBjtKUbZR0nI8-v9GnWPN4M_Ppyq8zqoJc_ll_7rxPCHe5-RU_EJ_QM9eN85xzLPgn9iyyKMtbn2J-Q_j2HUab6oCsP0OY8tEO-FxEWecQ/s1600/dresser2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSUnSfSUYmXQGOChyphenhyphensqplPGvUQrhC2uRm0klBjtKUbZR0nI8-v9GnWPN4M_Ppyq8zqoJc_ll_7rxPCHe5-RU_EJ_QM9eN85xzLPgn9iyyKMtbn2J-Q_j2HUab6oCsP0OY8tEO-FxEWecQ/s1600/dresser2.jpg" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2PcekGB7mqWxOf8Yvg4rMihz2PeF0s9qm-PGJ9ic59fUGLP6acBD_Z-K_KsXDaoDfD9k9Z9gsUCD-fRRsTd9f2FjdfV_UbLWE0lWPbE3LOmadz9sFPIes21emQ6ufvutGXnu2U1CIfWE/s1600/dresser3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2PcekGB7mqWxOf8Yvg4rMihz2PeF0s9qm-PGJ9ic59fUGLP6acBD_Z-K_KsXDaoDfD9k9Z9gsUCD-fRRsTd9f2FjdfV_UbLWE0lWPbE3LOmadz9sFPIes21emQ6ufvutGXnu2U1CIfWE/s1600/dresser3.jpg" /></a></div>
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Who ever stained this thing yellow and blueish-green should have their decorating privileges revoked. This is just a home decor sin. Anyways, underneath all that ugliness I knew I saw a true beauty (as well as a sturdy good quality dresser).<br />
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Can we just talk for a second about how hard it is to find a quality dresser these days? Even if you find a really good looking new dresser it often isn't made out of real wood and even more often it has those horrible cardboard/paper bottoms that fall out the second you put anything in them. This dresser didn't have that. It had real wood drawer bottoms that are reinforced underneath. I knew I couldn't get a dresser of this quality for the price anywhere.<br />
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Anyways, lets get on to my favorite part, which is the after pictures.<br />
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I love the stripes. I love that they are soft and subtle, but definitely still there. I'm still working on organizing the other half of my office, but I can't wait to show you guys how much better it looks. I actually feel like I can get some work done now. Which is actually what I need to head off and do.</div>
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Thanks for reading!</div>
<br />Tanyahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12462983872912418410noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6381474108666095174.post-33568129266985884252013-08-21T17:07:00.001-07:002013-08-21T17:07:34.724-07:00New stuff!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSBP96-J3m1pBJvylOKH-eftAaQJNed3f7xI9-o-XUt-WQLNnIhYB_NiQ-PqOt6I4fTDWUZnDtXE-e1s9JrehFU-WVZrEO7pMTt5zCrGaTpf0ZBs0xUx2DB_8rk4qtKD8NdUL988eYkXI/s1600/levelandlace.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSBP96-J3m1pBJvylOKH-eftAaQJNed3f7xI9-o-XUt-WQLNnIhYB_NiQ-PqOt6I4fTDWUZnDtXE-e1s9JrehFU-WVZrEO7pMTt5zCrGaTpf0ZBs0xUx2DB_8rk4qtKD8NdUL988eYkXI/s1600/levelandlace.jpg" /></a></div>
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Hey guys! I've got a special giveaway going on over at <a href="http://www.auniesauce.com/">Aunie Sauce</a> today! Head on over there to enter! If you haven't visited her blog before you are missing out because she is probably one of the sweetest girls I have ever met (or read about I suppose?)</div>
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In other news I have also listed a bunch of new cover designs so you should check them out and see if there is anything you just can't live without! There is lots of new stuff to come so keep your eye out for more stuff :)</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">PS. Thanks for the beautiful collage Aunie!!</span></div>
Tanyahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12462983872912418410noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6381474108666095174.post-60333583074633211102013-08-15T18:42:00.000-07:002013-08-15T18:42:09.752-07:00Coping with stress<br />
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Sometimes I allow stress to get the better of me. Which is just silly and a big waste of time. When I am stressed I don't get anything accomplished, I just focus on how daunting everything is. It feels like I'm running in a marathon, but instead of moving forward I'm just running in place. Or worse, sometimes it feels like I'm running backwards.<br />
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Today I've been focusing on using my time wisely and getting organized. Everything feels less stressful when I am organized. All my important deadlines need to be written down, things need to be in their rightful homes, clutter needs to vanish. Something about writing things down and putting things away brings such a huge release of tension for me.<br />
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I still feel stressed, but I feel the intensity of it ebbing away little by little.Tanyahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12462983872912418410noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6381474108666095174.post-77211215127577131162013-08-14T16:09:00.001-07:002013-08-14T16:09:16.385-07:00Working from home<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Gosh guys, I am so incredibly blessed by my customers and followers! Seriously you are all great! Also my family and friends! I have never felt so encouraged and able do anything I set my mind to. This summer has been a huge success. I finally started a shop selling my own products, I've taken care of an incredibly active puppy all summer (anyone a GSD owner??), and I've worked hard at keeping my house clean (I type as I'm sitting in my disaster of an office).<br />
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Before starting my own business I was one of those people that idolized those that could work from home. It sounds so relaxing doesn't it? Crawling out of bed in the morning, coffee cup in hand, sending some business emails, spending a few hours focused in your work, all while hanging out in your cozy home and pjs. Meanwhile, in the real world, working from home means being incredibly disciplined when it comes to waking up in the morning, <i>always</i> bringing your work home (aka: thinking about it during "non-working hours"), having to take care of household chores and office chores. I could go on, but I wont.<br />
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With all that said, I can't believe it is real. I can't believe I "work from home" and am actually making money from it. Here is my advice to anyone: <i>If I can do it, YOU can do it!</i> Put your stuff out there! You never know what is going to happen, just make sure it is developed first, but once you've got that down, you're golden.<br />
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I'd love to be a super diligent blogger, but honestly right now I think my focus is on my shop. As much as I love blogging, I actually <i>love</i> designing planners and selling them even more. I'm still confused about what I want this blog to be and what my purpose for it is, but I'm at peace with that for now. I know God brought this platform into my life for a reason, if only he would give me a clearer picture of what that was...<br />
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Also looks like I will be at the <a href="http://www.theinfluenceconference.com/">influence conference</a>!! Who else is going??Tanyahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12462983872912418410noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6381474108666095174.post-52414214942578996652013-07-29T06:00:00.000-07:002013-07-29T06:00:00.898-07:00Healthy Monday | From Heather<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Happy healthy month level and lace readers!<br />
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It is <a href="http://honeebeeblog.com/" target="_blank">Heather from Honee Bee </a>with Healthy Monday!<br />
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Today I am going to be talking about walking and how to incorporate it into your lifestyle. Though I am really enjoying working out, and do it fairly frequently ,the more I read about health and the lifestyle of other countries, the more I realize that I (and the majority of Americans) do not move half as much as the rest of the world. We get into our cars, drive to work, park in ramps that are steps away, and sit at a desk all day. (and then we wonder why our country struggles with obesity). Then we go to the gym, slave away for an hour, and then go home and sit on the couch. Our mobility is so low that though we have worked out, we still aren't moving as much as we were designed to do. hence, weight gain. </div>
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However- this could all be solved by simply increasing how much we walk. Just walking!</div>
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The average american walks 2,000 steps a day, while researchers show that europeans walk 10,000 steps a day. That is five times more then us americans, and they their obesity rate is SIGNIFICANTLY lower then ours. and they don't even go to the gym! Amazing I tell ya. </div>
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So with that. I have decided to do a walking challenge. I have found a few fun pedometer apps (the one I use is called "moves"- warning it totally sucks your battery life!) on my phone so I can keep track of how much I am going to be moving and am going to be trying to reach the 10,000 step mark every day. I started this a few weeks ago and have been playing with the apps and found that they don't always record very accurately/turn off sometimes. But it is still the right intention and is one way I remind myself to get out and walk some more! Everyday I make my husband go on a short walk after dinner. He works at an office all day and I know that by doing this I am forcing both of us to pursue a healthier lifestyle.<br />
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The last few weeks I have been doing trial runs seeing how many steps I am taking on a daily basis and I have found that I average 4,000-5,000. so I am only halfway to the what health professionals recommend. Yikes! With this... come the 10,000/day challenge! Because I am BIG into setting reasonable goals I am going to try walk 10,000 steps a day at least three times a week. By forcing myself to move more, I reap the benefits and really do not have to "work" that much more to achieve a healthier lifestyle! So who is with me? Let's all walk it out!</div>
Tanyahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12462983872912418410noreply@blogger.com1