I’ve been searching for the perfect remedy for clutter, a balance in work & parenthood, and the answer for how God works in my life. Project after project, prayer after prayer, plan after plan..searching.

But, simplicity found me. Or maybe, it was there all along and I just opened my eyes to see it standing under my nose.

I have come to find simplicity means something different to everyone. How to do you view “simplicity”?

Sewing your own clothes or buying the latest fashions off the rack? Paying bills online or sending them in the mail with, gasp, a stamp? Using all home grown organics or shopping with a grocery delivery service?

My simplicity is this: I live in a complex world in failing body with a forgiven soul. I have a dynamic family, a creative bug and a gift for loving my kids. I think of gratitude, hope for grace and a linger in peace (even in the orchestrated chaos that is the current state of my family).

My projects, prayers and plans can all change. There is no formula. Seek simplicity, look to God, and be grateful for what challenges you and what gives you peace.

Love,

Jess

Proverbs 31: 17b

Her arms are strong for her tasks. 

As most of you know, I am over 2/3s the way through a 90 day exercise program. I wrote about why in a previous post.

My blog, furniture projects and TV watching have all taken a bit of a backseat to my fitness routine. Let me roll your eyes for you, haha!

But, truly my time is getting zapped up doing things like the photo below.

I can’t believe I’m posting this photo! What a shot…leave it to a husband!

I thought about not publishing this post due to my rear in the air and all. But, Molly’s cuteness factor over powered my insecurities. Look at her tiny downward dog yoga pose. Awwww!

Love,

Jess

Took the Long Way Home

Driving with the windows down

In thoughtful daydream

Summer sunset in my mirror

Chasing long gone memories

Took the long way home

Wind whipping around my hair

Cool speed of evening’s first call

Pink and Gold and Blue

Happy freedom in my heart

Love,

Jess

Four must-see links for the Forth!

1. A watermelon drink dispenser from Kara’s Party Ideas

2. Tablescape from Simply Creative Insanity
3. Festive fruit from Oopsey Daisy

4. Free Cupcake Toppers (printable) from Yellow Mums

Happy Forth of July!!

Love,
Jess

What a time of year for me to pick for sorting out insurance paperwork, photos and schedules!? What was I thinking?

I’m committed to my cause, but if I didn’t take a minute to stop and smell the flowers, I’d have to be committed.

Love,

Jess

Proverbs 31:27

²⁷ She watches over the affairs of her household
and does not eat the bread of idleness.

Gaining control over the “affairs of my household” seems a bit daunting. Exciting, but daunting. Have I said this before?

Goals, organization, schedules, files, wills, finances, photos, cleaning, hospitality, the whole nine yards.

Inspired by Just a Girl, Whatever and Seriously a Homemaker, the kids and I made a We Love Summer To-do List.

I figure I might as well get fired up for goal making with summer fun!

I left a couple of lines for anything Pete wants to add.

Love,

Jess

Proverbs 31:18

¹⁸ She sees that her trading is profitable,
and her lamp does not go out at night.

I traded my pie plate pedestal…

…for a friend’s pink pennant banner!

I’d say it was a win-win situation. Wouldn’t you?

I will be focusing more on “the affairs” of my household, now that the Junk Market is behind me.

Bring on the paper shredder!

Love,

Jess

The Junk Market was last weekend!

Here are just a sampling of photos from the marvelous junk heap in the Shabby Mamas tent.

Standing: Andrea, Kimber, Becki / Seated: Carrie and I.

Name tags, aprons, friends, and shabby chic home decor – a nice day all around.

Cheers for trying something new!

Love,

Jess

5 minutes of sanding, 1 coat of primer and 2 coats of spray enamel later…

DIYers, Did you know you can sand off loose rust with a sanding block? Who knew?