Summer Favorites

SUMMER FAVORITES!!



{2 posts in 1 day....I'm sure this is some kind of blogging cardinal sin, but I just had to share}


*Life Beautiful Magazine* -- My friend Megan introduced me to this fabulous magazine! It's basically a Christian Real Simple (which if you have known me for even 30 seconds, you know is my absolute favorite magazine!) I know this may sound mean/bad, but what I'm most impressed with is the relevance, professionalism and 'goodness' of it. Typically most things that are "Christian" made or produced specifically for the "christian bubble" are, well, bad. And I realize it's not always the talent that is behind it, but usually the funding...so it makes sense. BUT, this is not the case! This is a great magazine and I'm loving it!! Only pitfall, it comes out 4 times a year :( -- get a subscription and maybe they will increase to 12!!
{Can typically be found at Wal-Mart or the "spiritual" section of magazines in Barnes and Noble}




*Print Cardigans* - As the heat waves become more and more frequent, I've been scouring my closet for some print cardy's! I have a whole slew of the solid color ones, but I'm realizing...I'd like some prints! I haven't found too many, but I'm loving the one below from Target!


Reminds me of the ocean and a fantastic clambake!


*Event Planning* - It's no secret that the majority of Cody and I's vacations this summer will be dual purposed...it's wedding season and it's on with a vengeance! But, we are loving every second of it and I'm so happy to be helping with some of the planning. In particular, Cody's best friend Josh is getting married this summer to Kelsie! Josh's mom has asked me to help plan the rehearsal dinner. When Linda, Josh's mom, asked me for help, I gave her a resounding YES and my mind started buzzing!! They are having a casual BBQ type of event, but want to make it as cute as can be! She gave me some key words like: mason jars, no electricity and color! SO, needless to say, some creativity will be in store :)

Josh and Kelsie came over for a night and Kelsie and I brainstormed some ideas--here are some pictures we are using for inspiration...I can't wait to show you the finished product, it'll be GORGEOUS!!













--In addition to all the wedding/baby/bridal shower stuff--I'm planning our 2nd annual Women's Ministry Retreat!! We haven't settled on an official date, but this year I put together a team of ladies to help with all the details. Our theme is "Sweet"--- and our verse is Psalm 34:8 "O, Taste and see that the Lord is good. Blessed is the man who trusts in Him!" It's going to be fun and bright and full of SWEETS AND DESSERTS!! (So, basically heaven on earth for me!) Here are some pictures I've found for decor inspiration!














*Grilling* - This summer I can not wait to utilize our new back patio and have some great friends over for summer food and fun! I recently bought this fun 'grill it' cookbook from Pampered Chef (also, an absolute favorite of mine!) It has so many delicious recipes--I can't wait for Cody and I to try with some friends!! Get yourself a copy here ASAP!


*Decorating* - Oh my goodness, I can not wait for the time to actually get to start decorating more of our house!! Pier One, Crate & Barrel, Ballard Designs and so many other stores have some of the greatest pieces for such fun inspiration, for the summer!! I'm focusing more towards our back patios and our 2nd guest bedroom....any suggestions?


I'm loving this outdoor chair--the orange and brown are still bright enough for the summer, but will flow great into the fall as we pull out the fire pit!


This just looks so cozy for a guest bedroom!



*The Bachelorette* - Yes, yes, I know the groans are happening all across the blogging world, but this one I'm particularly interested in because Ally from last season's Bachelor is now the Bachelorette! And, let's be serious, I think the Bachelorette seasons are SO much more interesting than the "boy" ones! I'll have to warn Cody to make room on the DVR every Monday night :) Plus, she's a doll and a blonde...I have to support :)