Specs and Wings

Love is in the Air!

2012-02-13T13:16:00.000-06:00

It's time for one of my very favorite days....Valentines Day is tomorrow!

Last year I made Valentines, but this year I'm thinking about doing something different. Do you have any ideas? :)

I hope you feel loved and I hope you know how much I appreciate you! Be sure to enter the BIG CELEBRATION Giveaway today and I'll draw a winner tomorrow! I can't wait!!!

I also have a brand new pair of painted TOMS to show you coming up this week!

happy monday!

Celebration GIVEAWAY!

2012-02-10T08:00:00.001-06:00

With all of the exciting things happening at Specs & Wings, we decided to celebrate YOU! 14 amazing Etsy artists have donated beautiful handmade items for the biggest giveaway we've ever had! Keep your eyes out for lots of adorable "specs" and "wings" themed items, plus more creations that are just fun! Starting today, leave a comment on this post for a chance to WIN IT ALL!!! On Tuesday, February 14th, I'll draw and announce a winner! You may enter once by commenting on this post and an additional time by sharing this post on Facebook (just add another comment letting me know!)

And now for the amazing Etsy artists! Be sure to check out their shops and blogs!

Enjoy!

Eecopress – Red Winged Anatomical Heart Cards (Set of 4)

www.eecopress.etsy.com

Amazing husband and wife duo who create beautiful hand drawn and screen printed cards, shirts and more! They live in a community trying to re-vive the art scene...be sure to send your support.

Feb10 Design -Hipster Animals Collection of 4 and Magnet Set

www.feb10design.etsy.com

www.feb10design.com
Use the Code "FEB10FRIENDS " for 10% off your etsy order!

These cards are cuter than cute! Feb10 is also giving away a set of Hipster Animal magnets that haven't even hit her shop yet! You'll be the first to have them!

FiFi du Vie Home Décor- Oh Darling Lets Be Adventurers Tote

Www.fifiduvie.etsy.com

www.ohdarlingletsbeadventurers.com

This bag is so adorable and just in time for Valentines day! You gotta have it!

Doro Limited – Retro Glasses Frames Fabric Covered Bobby Pins

www.dorolimited.etsy.com

Fabric Shop- www.spoonflower.com/profiles/dorolimited

Every item in this shop is adorable! Check out the specs and scooters! SO FUN!

Luxe & Lavish – Classic Wayfarer Style Glasses Tote

www.luxandlavish.etsy.com

She’s offering a coupon code for 10% off. Just use “SPECS” as the code at checkout!

A Wayfarer themed tote? Get out! I LOVE this!

Samantha Moore – Glasses Case Made from Upholstery Samples

www.samanthamoore.etsy.com

http://www.samanthamoore.me

Samantha uses Upholstery Samples to create the cutest glasses cases I've ever seen!

Declanation- Glasses/ Eye Chart Cleaning Cloth

www.declanation.etsy.com

www.declanation.com

Why shouldn't something useful be beautiful?! All of the designs of these adorable cleaning cloths are perfect for anyone with specs or a camera to keep clean in style! The winner will receive this design along with two more!

Little Lots- Eco Friendly Handmade Frames Note Card Set of 4

www.littlelots.etsy.com

These little sets of specs make me SO excited! I love the bright colored envelopes and smooth image on the cards.

Rare Indeed- Crazy Geometric Glasses Necklace

www.rareindeed.etsy.com

www.rare-indeed.com

www.facebook.com/rareindeed

These are made to order and SO FUN! I also love the camera bracelets and adorable details!

Creatiate – Handmade Shine and Sunshine Stamp Set

www.creatiate.etsy.com

creatiate@gmail.com

I have several of these handmade stamps and they are amazing! She also makes custom stamps!

A Girl Named Katie- Green Yarn Glasses Necklace

www.agirlnamedkatie.etsy.com

This is even more adorable in person! It also has super adorable packaging!

Art By Britt- Everyday Greeting Cards (Set of 5)

www.brittanyingram.etsy.com

www.artbybritt.blogspot.com

Britt makes beautiful paintings and she now has them printed as note cards! They are beautiful and bright!

Alison Holcomb Photography- Lost in the Trees 11x14

www.alisonholcombphotography.com

www.aholcombphoto.etsy.com

Not only is she a brilliant photographer, she now has an etsy shop to sell her prints! They're so lovely, check em out!

Papercutz- Love Banner

www.papercutzmidland.etsy.com

www.papercutzmidland.blogspot.com

papercutzmidland@gmail.com

This banner is gorgeous! The details and colors are so soft and beautiful! She also makes amazing paper goods for parties!

And a little something from me!
Specs & Wings- Still Processing Print
www.specsandwings.etsy.com

YOU COULD WIN 15 HANDMADE PRIZES!!!

Be sure to enter once by commenting here and add another comment if you share this link on Facebook! Please leave your email address in the comment so I can contact the winner! Also, check out theses wonderful artists and leave them some love on their sites! They are truly lovely.

I'm excited to share the winner on Tuesday!!!

happy weekend!

Lovely Birthday!

2012-02-09T14:06:00.000-06:00

Thanks everyone for your sweet birthday wishes this week! You're so sweet!

My sweet Jeremy gave me these beautiful birthday flowers yesterday...isn't he awesome!?! It has been a special week because of sweet family and friends and all of you!

I'm very excited about tomorrow's big giveaway! I've got 14 handmade creations from amazing Etsy artists and I'm going to throw something in too! That's 15 handmade items that YOU CAN WIN! I hope you'll come by and check it out! See you tomorrow!!!

happy thursday!

p.s. Some people haven't been able to find the Artful Blogging Magazine locally. If you're looking for a place to order it, I've added a button on the side-bar! Thanks everybody!

Pretty Post!

2012-02-09T08:00:00.000-06:00

I love to get mail and I love to send it! It's even more fun to make it unique and beautiful. This week I'm sending out some hand written notes! I used some new stationary that my sweet sis in law gave me from Paper Source along with some moo mini cards and "specs" cut-outs! I'm also sending some notes written on the back of my art prints which double as postcards!

Just wanted to share some *pretty post* love!

happy day!

Guest on Art by Britt!

2012-02-08T13:23:00.000-06:00

Today, I'm SO EXCITED to share a guest post on Art By Britt Blog!

Britt is an incredible painter that I adore. She's got an amazing blog and a new etsy site! I'm super excited to be giving away a set of her amazing note cards in the giveaway on Friday... you'll LOVE them!

It was so fun to make this DIY and I hope you enjoy it!

Have a wonderful day! :)

happy wedesday!

3 Cheers!

2012-02-08T08:00:00.000-06:00

Today is my birthday and I'm enjoying these little cuties! My sweet friend Danielle MADE them for me as a gift....aren't they AWESOME!?!?

I hope you're having a fun day too!

happy day!

MAP Packaging Designs

2012-02-07T10:39:00.002-06:00

I can't tell you how excited I was when Mari from Mari Annelise Photography asked me to design her packaging! She is very creative so she only wanted a little boost with some sketched ideas and some great resources.

She created a Pinterest board of ideas based on the color theme "cotton candy" and the style of vintage chic. I used her ideas and images to create an inspiration board for her (that doubled as a clip board!)

I drew a few design ideas to get her started...

and packaged them along with the resources list for a beautiful and organized start to a personalized packaging design that she'll run with!

You know my love of packaging so this was a blast for me! I can't wait to see the next amazing thing she'll create. happiest of days!

Celebrate with Us!

2012-02-07T09:46:00.000-06:00

I wanted to thank you all again for your amazing support and encouragement this year! None of this is possible without you! I'm thrilled with the sweet Etsy community of artists who are willing to donate the most amazing creations that you can WIN! I can't wait to share the fun on Friday! Tell your friends and I'll see y'all then.

happy tuesday!

Spotted: Mini Flower Birthday!

2012-02-06T14:22:00.000-06:00

I got a custom order for some little vintage style mini flower clips for a cutie's first birthday!

I loved seeing how this amazing amazing momma used them for party decorations, favors and as part of the birthday girl's outfit!

So adorable right!?! I loved each one of these precious photos from such a lovely party!

Hope your weekend was wonderful! This week I'm excited to share a new packaging design and along with info on a huge giveaway!

happy monday!

Anniversary Trip!

2012-02-03T16:33:00.000-06:00

Here's a little look at our anniversary trip to San Antonio! We had a great time!!!

We had a blast eating lots of great food, walking around town, checking out the vinyl, and lots of great talks over coffee and tea!

Hope you have a lovely weekend!!!

Behind the Scenes of Being Published!

2012-02-03T13:54:00.000-06:00

I am so thrilled to be published in the current issue of Artful Blogging Magazine! I wanted to give you a little peek at the process.....

It started last Fall with a sweet email from one of the editors asking if I'd consider being featured! I wasn't sure it was real! HA! I was so excited I could hardly contain myself. I finally calmed down enough to write her back and accept. She then sent me a list of items that she needed from me including a full length article about my experience with blogging and many photos that she needed from my blog.

I had many rough drafts and many re-writes. Jeremy helped me edit and get the article in a place that clearly told my story. He helped me SO SO MUCH and he left me this sweet note on my rough draft after we practically scratched it all out and started over! :)

I also had the most amazing help editing my photos to be "print ready"! The beautiful and talented Kate Dominguez of The Wild Curl helped me edit each and every one just how I liked it. She is BRILLIANT with graphics and photos and she did an incredible job.

My family had a big part in this adventure too! Both my Mom and my Dad have believed in me from the start and have always encouraged me to follow my dreams, even if they're a little wild and fun like being an artist. My Dad actually took 2 of the photos that were published including the one in my blog banner! My gorgeous sister stars in those photos and she is also a genius at writing so she helped me write my "about the author" section! They're all fabulous! :)

I also mentioned several of the art projects I completed over the past year and how they have touched my life. Thanks to all of you, my readers and customers....this would not be possible without you!

When I got a final draft ready, I emailed it to the editor. Here I am pushing "send"! I felt excited, nervous and relieved that it was done!

I had to wait many months, but the magazine was released early in a few stores and then officially on February 1st! I got my copy in the mail yesterday...

I still can't believe it really happened! Being published has been on my "Big Goals" list for a long time and I'm so excited to have had this opportunity!

Thanks to everyone for the support and kind words! Your encouragement means so much! I hope you enjoyed a little peek behind the scenes of being published.

happy friday!

Artful Blogging!

2012-01-27T18:41:00.002-06:00

I'm so excited and honored to share this good news! Last fall, I received an email from an editor at Artful Blogging Magazine and she asked if they could feature my blog! I was given the amazing opportunity to write an article and share some photos from Specs & Wings! I got a copy today and I wanted to share some of the pages with you. I'm over the moon and I wanted to say thank you to each of you, my awesome readers, this blog and this article couldn't have happened without you!

Jeremy and I spotted it in Barnes and Nobles! Wow!

I hope you get a chance to check it out! The magazine is filled with beautiful artists that I feel so honored to be featured with! Thank you to my sweet family and friends for your support in this new adventure!

You can get a copy here or locally at Barnes & Noble!

happy friday!

p.s. to celebrate, I'll be having a really fun, really big giveaway featuring 10+ Etsy artists! I'm so excited! More details soon!

Our 3rd 365!

2012-01-27T08:00:00.000-06:00

My love, this year.....

december

november

october

september

august

july

june

may

april

march

february

january

.....with you has been incredible!

Jeremy, you are my one and only, the most amazingly kind, generous, and hilarious man I know. You're the one who "gets" me and is truly my best friend. I have been blessed SO much being your wife! I can't wait to see what this next year of adventures holds. God is so so good!

Our Anniversary is next week so Jeremy and I are going to be off celebrating! I'll be away from my computer for a few days, but I'll be back with lots of pictures and stories to share. See y'all later next week!

happy friday!

Guestbook Makeover!

2012-01-26T09:51:00.000-06:00

A sweet friend brought me an unused guestbook from her mother's wedding to makeover for her own!

This was SUCH a fun project! I wanted to show you a few peeks....

I included the original drawing I created for their wedding invite design!

I re-covered the outside of the book and added a grey polka dot mat!

I added a little journaling spot for a welcome note, event date, or anything else they want to add to make it personal!

Their initials and the original drawing for their response card design!

I stamped the "sign in" pages with antique brown swirl stamps!

All of these beautiful images were taken by the amazing Mari Annelise Photography!

I hope this book will be a treasured keepsake that will continued to be passed down in the family!

I'm so excited for this amazing family! Congrats D+R! :)

Happy Thursday!

I heart Valentines Packaging!

2012-01-25T08:00:00.001-06:00

Valentines is one of my very favorite holidays! :)

Plus, creating the packaging for my etsy orders this time of year, is like making Valentines! I love to wrap things in red strings, red and white heart doilies, and awesome heart stamped bags!

I loved wrapping up this pretty fabric necklace along with two heart themed art prints!

Still needing something for your sweetie? I've got lots of fun things in the shop! www.specsandwings.etsy.com

happy wednesday!

"TO-DO" Frame DIY!

2012-01-24T08:00:00.000-06:00

I'm SO excited to share today's DIY because it combines something I love- LIST MAKING, with something important- reducing paper waste! Plus, it's SO easy and fast....but looks so cute you'll use it everyday!

The "TO-DO" Frame works like a wipe-off board. You'll be able to make lists using dry erase markers and then start over by just cleaning the glass when you're ready to make a new list! Here are the supplies you'll need:

An inexpensive or thrifted frame with glass, decorative paper, a glue stick, a paper cutter (or scissors!) and Mary Kate McDevitt's Mini Goals Notepad (optional, but so cute, how can you resist?!?).

Start by trimming your decorative paper to fit your frame. Mine is an 8x10, so I cut the paper to fit.

2. Open your Mini Goals Notepad and tear out your favorite page! (I found my notepad in the $4 section at Staples, but you can also order your own here!)

3. Add glue to the back of your "Goals Page" and center it on the decorative paper.

4. Frame the your paper so that you can see it through the glass!

5. Now you can use dry erase markers to create your lists for work or home! (They also make really cute gifts- just tie a marker to the ribbon and voila!)

I love these! I have one on my studio desk and one on my kitchen counter! I have already been using it!

I have been a long time fan of Mary Kate McDevitt and her beautiful hand painted chalkboards for a long time and when I saw her new line of paper goods I couldn't believe it! Be sure to check out her website and etsy shop- she has some really amazing things!

Happy happy tuesday!

Getting it Together!

2012-01-23T10:19:00.000-06:00

I had a lovely and productive weekend! I spent some time making a creative business notebook for this year. It was wonderful to spend some time creating just for fun and making something personal and inspiring!

I'm still working on the cover, but here's the start...

Notebook Cover (in progress)

I bought a package of plain file folders, cut them in half, and trimmed them down to fit my notebook as dividers. Then I covered each divider in pretty papers and inspirational images from an old Papaya! calendar and my favorite Pinterest inspirations!

Etsy Orders Divider

Custom Orders Divider

Submissions Divider

Blog Divider

Blog Divider Detail!

I've got a few orders in already so I wanted to go ahead and have everything set up to start off the year organized! Doesn't it feel good to have things in order and pretty?

I've got a really fun week ahead on the blog! I'll be sharing another fun DIY, some fun Valentines packaging, and progress on a couple of projects! I can't wait!!! :)

happy monday!

Legit.

2012-01-20T09:34:00.001-06:00

Guess who's officially in business?!? :)

Yesterday I celebrated getting my official "DBA" license!

One of my business classes suggested that a small business should celebrate everything. It's true! There are some things that I've dreamed about for a long time. Being officially in business is one of them. Jeremy and I made it official yesterday and we even took care of some tax things (then you know it's real! ha!)

To celebrate: tall mocha and a few moments of peace, a stroll through the book store, and a sweet dinner at home with Jeremy! :)

Life is sweet!

happy *legit* day!

Infinity Scarf Remix DIY!

2012-01-18T10:32:00.000-06:00

So last night, I was so inspired by my style icons, I decided to try something new right away! I have a lovely black and white scarf that I always choose to pair with a cardigan or dress...but then quickly change my mind because I don't like the look of the beads/fringe. I decided to give this lucky scarf a little make-over, or as I like to call it, a "remix". I would wear it much more if it were an infinity scarf, so with a snip-snip and a stitch-stitch, it was done!

It's so super easy, you can do it too! Here's how...

Start by choosing the scarf you'd like to remix!

Then, trim off the fringed edges...

Line up the raw edges...

...and stitch them together using your sewing machine, or by hand!

It should look something like this...

Now, to hide that terrible, raveling, stringy, raw edge! Start by turning the scarf inside out...

So that the raw seam is inside, and fold it along the "pretty seam"...

Now stitch along the side of the pretty seam so that you'll hide the messy raw edge!

Ta-da! Now you have a pretty seam on both sides of the scarf!

Snip any extra threads and it's ready to wear! :)

I hope you enjoyed this DIY! You can see more How To's here!

happy wednesday!

My Style Icons!

2012-01-17T13:46:00.002-06:00

Hello friends!

I love to share what's inspiring me from time to time, and I have to say as of late....(and possibly for a long time!)....it's been the amazingly creative expression of fashion!

It's so fun that living creatively touches every aspect of life, even what I wear! I find that choosing certain colors, patterns, and accessories is directly related to how I'm feeling....anyone else do this? I've decided that this year I want to dress in a way that not only shares my creativity and heart, but also makes me feel grown up and at times....professional! I'd love to be able to dress creatively cute for work or for a meeting with one of you about a custom project. It would also be fun to feel good when I'm dressing casual or even just creating at home!

Where to begin? I think my first step in challenging my fashion this year is being inspired by my favorite style icons! I know you'll enjoy them too!

Naomi Davis- www.tazaandhusband.com

I'm always inspired by this sweet wife and mother! I love her use of vintage items in a totally modern way! Plus those specs and her awesome messy bun....get out! :)

Keiko Lynn- www.keikolynn.com

She's so fun and creative in her styling! I love her color choices and the way she layers dresses and coats with tights and heels! I just may have to have a pair of her Ray Ban specs....adorable!

Kendi Everyday- www.kendieveryday.blogspot.com

Her blog is hilarious! I love her honest writing style and her ability to make putting together a professional outfit look effortless. She's also got some beautiful hair!

Katie- www.skunkboycreatures.blogspot.com

This lovely textile artist has an amazing way with layers! The way she mixes and matches her outfits make me love colors, patterns, and textures even more! Plus she has rockin' red hair and amazing styling tutorials!

Elsie Larson- www.abeautifulmess.typepad.com

This girl's blog is an everyday read and one of my art business heroes! She incorporates beautiful vintage pieces and isn't afraid of bright colors and retro accessories. She's awesome!

Lauren Conrad- www.laurenconrad.com

She has a way of always looking lovely, classy, and totally put together. I love her style and that she now has a line at Kohl's! Her website has lots of make-up tutorials and styling ideas.

Zooey Deschanel

There's something so classic about the way she dresses....straight out of a wonderful old movie! Plus she's got perfect bangs. :)

Do you have any style icons? Any advice for me as I embark on a new fashion adventure?

I'm very excited and I hope you've been inspired by these lovely ladies!

happy tuesday!

Regroup.

2012-01-13T11:48:00.000-06:00

maynotbeperfectbutitsreal

Hey friends! Thanks for being patient with me while I regroup! I'm feeling much better and I'm getting things in order over the next few days for a new year of changes, challenges and lots & lots of joy! I'm excited to have you with me! I've been fixing up my blog this week (what do you think?!?) to make it easier to navigate and more welcoming to new readers. I'm also excited to share some AMAZING news in the coming weeks as well as the biggest giveaway I've ever hosted! My mind is full of new custom work, exciting creations to try, things I want to organize and new DIY's to share! Hope you have an awesome weekend!

happy friday!

mmmm Thai House!

2012-01-12T08:56:00.002-06:00

Well, it was on my list to give Thai food another try this year....so the other night we went to Thai House! It was SO GOOD and such a fun experience! Jeremy took me on the full "tour" and I enjoyed every deliciously hot bite! We also had dessert....wow. That dessert would make an excellent breakfast.....wish I had some right now! :)

Seems I'm still getting in gear for the year with Specs &Wings, but I have some REALLY FUN NEWS to share with you soon! I'm working on getting everything organized, custom projects started and re-filling the etsy shop soon! Hope your week is going great and that you're open to trying new things. You never know, you might be surprised! ;)

happy thursday!

Silhouette Sewing Machine Cover!

2012-01-11T09:38:00.001-06:00

I have one more sewing machine cover to show you! I made this one for my mom who loves black and white patterns and silhouettes! I decided to use a vintage sewing machine shape and add in touches of gold. I hand stitched little swirl details and chose pretty little buttons to adorn it as well.(The tiniest button really is antique!)

The top is made of a large black and white dot and the back is a fun paisley pattern!

The sides have a matching fabric as well!

I love the little scalloped edges on the "frame" and the fun little details all around.

My mom is an amazing quilt maker and I'm always inspired by what she creates! :)

I hope you love your machine cover mom! It sure was fun to make!

happy wednesday everybody!

Priorities.

2012-01-09T11:59:00.002-06:00

weheartit

I've been thinking about the past year. I think it's okay to evaluate where you've been as long as you don't get stuck there, right? I've been preparing my business for 2012 and trying to make goals and get organized. It was a busy holiday season and a got a touch of the sniffles so things have gone pretty slowly. :) I'm getting things together for taxes and scheduling new orders and in the midst of this I've come to realize something. It's something my husband has always told me so wisely.... "the urgent" will always be there, but it can't come before "the important". :)

This year I want to live according to what's important and who's important. Seems like a simple, but noble goal. This year I want to make special time to spend with the ones I love and take time to create out of my own heart. I want to cultivate more peace, more joy and more friendships! I've got lots of fun ideas for Specs & Wings this year and I'm ready to make out a list of goals to start on, but I need to be sure my list never overwhelms what matters most and that everything is submitted to the Lord!

Have you thought about the new year? Have you been evaluating the past year?

Have you made any new goals?

happy monday!

Happy Birthday Handsome!

2012-01-06T13:37:00.001-06:00

This is my sweet man's birthday week!

I had so much fun wrapping his gifts with brown paper, stamping mustaches, tying yarn and jute, and even using an awesome plaid! Guy gifts are way more fun to wrap that I thought!

Happy Birthday Handsome! (the little wooden mustache tag is from Oh Hello Friend!)

I was so excited when he asked for another pair of painted TOMS!!!

and for some yummy cupcakes....

I'm so blessed and excited for another year of YOU, my love!

Happy Birthday Week!!!

Sneak Peek....

2012-01-06T08:00:00.001-06:00

Here's a little look at what I've been working on!

I was so inspired by the vintage patterns and colors of the mini flower clip project, I decided to make some more fabric bead necklaces! :) They'll be coming to the etsy shop soon!

What do you think? I think they would make lovely Valentines! :)

Mini Flower Favors!

2012-01-05T08:00:00.001-06:00

A sweet friend ordered some mini flower clips for her daughter's first birthday! She wanted pink, red and blue (an amazing combo) and vintage style floral fabrics. I had the best time picking out fabrics and creating each little flower! They are as sweet and unique as each of the little girls that will get them. :)

Getting back into the swing of things around here and getting ready for a new year of Specs & Wings!

How do you prepare for a new year?

happy thursday!

Specs & Wings in Ethiopia!

2012-01-04T10:55:00.001-06:00

Remember when I asked you guys to help my friends get to Africa?!?

Well, they made it!!! ;) Thank you for your prayers and support!

I got this sweet picture of two team members wearing their Specs & Wings flower clips in Ethiopia!

I feel forever blessed to have been a small part of their great journey! :)

If you want to check out their adventures, just hop on over to http://www.elderadventures.blogspot.com for Wynne's journal and see some amazing photos by Alison here!

happy wednesday!

No Regrets!

2012-01-04T09:08:00.001-06:00

This is another sewing machine cover that I made for my sweet friend Danielle for Christmas!

She has the most amazing style and I really wanted to bring that out in this sewn art piece. She loves tattoo styles and gem tones so I ran with that inspiration to create this....

front

Back

Detail of stitching!

I had so much fun coming up with this design, matching fabric patterns and stitching all of the details!

(FUN FACT- Danielle taught me to use her sewing machine in college and I have loved sewing ever since!)

I'm still finishing up my mom's sewing machine cover but you can see my sister's SUPER cute one here! I love all of the fabric and the color scheme! :)

Hope your week has been wonderful so far!

A Last Look at Christmas!

2012-01-03T10:41:00.004-06:00

I just wanted to share a few more pictures from Christmas! Enjoy...

My rents got me a record player for Christmas! AMAZING!!!

Me and my handsome man!

SO excited for my sis and bro in law to be here for Christmas!

Checking out my rents vinyl collection!

Art time with Anneke!

This just cracks me up!

Gotta LOVE new p.j.'s!

Anneke's fabric Christmas Tree Forest!

I hope yours was wonderful! Look out 2012! :)

p.s. Thanks Anneke for sending me the last 4 photos! :) Love em!

What Are You Doing New Years Eve?

2011-12-31T08:00:00.001-06:00

Happy New Years Eve everyone! I hope it's a wonderful time of remembering God's faithfulness in the last year and trusting Him more in your 2012! :)

I hope you get a chance to check out the post below...2011 in Review for Specs & Wings!
See y'all in 2012! Happy New Year!!!

Specs & Wings Year in Review 2011!

2011-12-30T08:00:00.003-06:00

It's been the most AMAZING year for Specs & Wings and I am so thankful for all of you joining me in this journey! Your support and encouragement keeps me going and I can't wait to begin another year of running my own art business! I feel so blessed that I get to create special things that might touch your lives in some way and I love that I've made friends with so many of you. I wanted to take a moment and look back over a year of new opportunities, new friendships, new adventures and lots of learning. ;)

January- I took this month to get organized! Jeremy and I cleaned out the closet in our studio space just for me. We put up shelves and loaded them with boxes of organized supplies (yay!) I also started selling my very first art print sets and painted a pair of TOMS for Jeremy's bday!

February- This was a really fun month! I started out trying to make a monthly newsletter, sewed my first custom pillow, made a birthday art journal, and met with Amanda McNeely about designing her packaging!!!

March- I worked really hard during this month for two of my favorite local events: Farmer's Market and Spring Fling with Pink Tumbleweed! This was also the first time I offered art print pocket mirrors!

April- I made 3 more art journals, created new braided headbands and necklaces for Farmer's Market and painted my Diana camera!

May- The most inspiring vacation I've had in a long time and just what I needed- the beautiful and arty town of San Fran! I also got to create a photo painting for a special 10 year anniversary and introduced Mini Flower Clips for the very first time! The "Imagination Explosion" event happened and all those months of sketching, designing, planning and building finally came to life!

June- I painted A LOT this month which is my favorite! I shared my favorite DIY and also painted the biggest paintings ever- 3x3ft and 3x4ft!

July- We hit the Farmer's Market in style with a new Flying Olive banner! I also sold brand new Flower Clutches and got to create a whole batch of mini flower clips for a girls night!

August- This was a really fun month! I got to sit down with Mari to design her very first solo photo studio space! I also introduced a new series of blog posts called "Ways to Wear it" and got to create a set of vintage style pillows!

September- This was the busiest month of the year! I created new Infinity Flower Scarves and introduced my first accessory collection and photos! I was asked to create paintings for a local business' anniversary party (40's themed that I got to dress up and attend!) and painted a really fun collage style painting!

October- This month I made lots of little fabric pumpkins, sold more at Pink Tumblweed and shared the story behind "The Silhouette Collection".

November- This was another busy month, but I loved it! I got to present Amanda McNeely Photography with two new packaging designs!!! I also finished another very large painting and got to see it come to life in my sweet friend's home. I painted an entire pair of TOMS with vintage cameras and sewed a new line of gloves and mittens!

December- This month I was finally able to slow down and finish up the years projects including a painting for a sewing room and my first ever wedding invitation design! I was also excited to design my very own set of Christmas cards, carve the stamps and hand print each one. I also felt honored to be a part of The Advent Conspiracy!

It was SUCH an amazing year and I'm so thankful for all God is doing and has done!

I can't wait to share another year with y'all, getting to know you better, sharing our creative lives and making new friends! This year will be hard to top, but I feel an adventure coming on!

Happy New Year Everyone!!!

Advent Conspiracy....Gift Tags!

2011-12-29T08:48:00.002-06:00

Earlier this month I did a series of posts based on the Advent Conspiracy and offered to create free handmade donation tags to anyone who wanted to give the gift of clean water in a friend or family member's name. I was so thrilled to have an amazing response! Thank you for giving water to someone in need and for sharing awareness of the lack of clean water around the world! I wanted to show you a few of the photos I found from friends around the web....super cute ideas for next year!

Sweet Britt, from "Art By Britt" tied her tags to her beautifully wrapped gifts!

Don't they look awesome all together!?!

I love the way she personalized each tag!

Another sweet friend, Wynne from "Elder Adventures" and "Wynne Elder Photography" tied her tags to super cute, candy filled, Chinese take-out boxes! FUN! She and her husband have a fun tradition of hand delivering each gift to their friends....so fun! Check out their amazing story here!

Did you guys enjoy this season's series on the Advent Conspiracy? Would y'all be interested donation tags again next year? Thanks for your support and love, you guys are awesome!

Oops!

2011-12-29T08:00:00.002-06:00

We had so much fun making cookies and decorating them...

But somehow they didn't turn out quite as we expected!

HA HA HA! Oops!

Hope your Christmas was so merry and nothing got you down!

happy day!

A Little Holiday Sewing!

2011-12-28T12:04:00.001-06:00

I love that when my mom, my sister and I get together we always have a sewing party! I love crowding around the table with 3 machines and fabric everywhere!

This year I made my mom and my sister sewing machine covers! There's a peek at my mom's on the table (finished pictures soon!). This one is my sister's...

It was really fun to make and I think she really liked it! :)

I also made them these cute and super easy teacup pin cushions!

What do the girls in your family do when y'all get together?

I'm Dreaming of a White Christmas...

2011-12-28T08:00:00.003-06:00

This was my first ever white Christmas!!! :) We enjoyed a whole day of snow on Christmas Eve and then then a bit more on Christmas day! LOVELY!!!

Jeremy and I decided to go see it and take a few pictures...

me and my love

me and my sis!

WE LOVE IT!!!

My handsome man!

Em and Blair

Our snowy sister pic!

My bro on his hog after his snow ride!

And after a beautiful day and night of snow...

The wonderful white greeted us again on Christmas morning!

We sure did love the snow, how about you?

A Snapshot of Our Christmas!

2011-12-27T10:01:00.002-06:00

We were so blessed this Christmas to be with both of our families, laugh, watch movies, carol, go to church (via the web), eat lots of great food, create, sew, listen to music and more! I'm excited to share a few little snapshots of our Christmas with you this week!

Hoping you and yours had a wonderful Christmas time! ;)

happy tuesday!

Merry Christmas!!!

2011-12-23T11:10:00.000-06:00

It's all fun and games until someone shoots an eye out!

Have a fun, cheery, unforgettable and safe holiday!

Peace, Love & Joy in Christ,

Specs & Wings

A Few Words....

2011-12-22T15:50:00.001-06:00

I don't know where you are today, but this close to Christmas I have seen lots of different feelings....

Some people are stressed and busy, some are worried or sad, some are full of excitement and some are discovering the beautiful story of Jesus....God with us! Where ever you are, I wanted to share some encouraging words that inspired me today....

Wishing you lots of joy, laughter, memories, love, wonder and peace!

I hope your days are so merry and bright and that each moment gets slower, quieter and closer to the manger of our Lord!

An Accountant Christmas!

2011-12-22T10:55:00.002-06:00

I don't know if some of you know this, but I'm an artist by night, and a receptionist by day! I work for a local cpa firm and each Christmas, one of my favorite things we do is an Accountant Christmas tree!

It started with red pencils and erasers and each year we add something new! Last year, we made tiny tax form ornaments....

This year we made a new wreath with an adding tape bow!

Who says you can't be creative at work?!? :)

Where do you work? How do you decorate or live creatively there?

*Merry Thursday!*

HELLO Dream Job!

2011-12-21T14:29:00.001-06:00

I'm telling you, I've been so inspired by Anthro's branding and unique store displays that I've decided, someday I WILL be a window dresser there!!! Look how beautiful these are! I'd love to do something like this for a living....wow! It's amazing what happens when you're not afraid to think BIG!!! :)

I hope this inspires you!

Are you guys getting ready for Christmas?!? Do these images give you some fun decorating ideas for next year?!? :)

Merry Merry day!!!

Christmas Cheer!

2011-12-20T14:03:00.001-06:00

Just a little something to help you get in the spirit! :)

Enjoy a few of my favorite Christmas tunes....

Happy Christmas week everyone!!!

D+R Wedding Invitation Design

2011-12-19T08:51:00.001-06:00

I was SO thrilled about this design project because for one, I've never designed wedding invitations before, and for two, I got to design a special part of a sweet bride's special day!!! I am so blessed with this opportunity and I learned so much! The bride, Robin, loves wild flowers in mason jars and deep jewel tones with a touch of vintage style. Here's what I came up with! I started by drawing the design, then I painted it with gauche (opaque watercolor) and added detail in colored pencil.

Then I took this design...

and the one of the rsvp card, and scanned them into the computer.

Then I added text that complimented the letters I painted.

After that, I worked with some amazing printers and they made my designs into actual wedding invitations!

This was such a fun project! Congrats to D+R!

happy day!

Link Love Friday- Christmas Edition!

2011-12-16T09:00:00.001-06:00

Time for a REALLY fun Link love! I hope you enjoy all of these beautifully Christmas-y posts!

DIY Glitter Banner!

Isn't this beautiful! I love the font!

A Wintery Paperdoll by Emily Martin (free printable!)
This would be a precious stocking stuffer for a little girl (or for a vintage loving girl!)

The Perfect Holiday Messy Bun by Promise Tangeman!

(I'm wearing one today!)

Clothespin Gift Toppers by Creature Comforts!

These are AWESOME!!! I love them!!!

"Let's Get Cozy" Party from 100 Layer Cake!

What a fun party! How wouldn't love a party with an orange camper!?!

Fresh Gift Wrap Ideas from Elsie @ A Beautiful Mess!

These are SO FUN! I love creative packaging (as you all know!)

I hope you were inspired! :) What are you up to this weekend? Getting ready for Christmas?

Let the countdown begin!

happy friday!

Christmas Tag Inspiration!

2011-12-15T14:09:00.001-06:00

Tonight I'm getting to hang out with the lovely Sarah of Papercutz to do gift tags demo's for Stonegate's "That's a Wrap" event! We'll be doing mostly simple stuff, but here are some really cute tags I found around the web!

I love all of these fun ideas! Are you feeling inspired?!? :)

happy thursday!

DIY Advent Calendar!

2011-12-14T08:00:00.001-06:00

"Advent" (from a Latin word that means "coming") is a time when we prepare for Christmas by celebrating both the coming of Christ as a baby and also that He's coming again for us as Believers! Anticipating helps us think about and hope for what's coming. That's why an Advent Calendar is so meaningful...it's like counting down the days in excitement!

I've seen SO MANY amazing Advent Calendars in the past couple of years, but nothing quite fit. Jeremy and I finally decided to create one out of tags! It was so fun to create together! Even kids can do it! Here's what you'll need:

25 tags (or paper that you punch a hole in!), letter stencils, a pen, magazines or scrap paper, scissors, glue and twine!

1.Start by finding fun, colorful patterns, textures, and designs in magazines or scrap paper and trace over the area using the stencil.

2. Cut out each little number until you have all 25!

3. Glue each number onto a tag.

4. Add strings to your tags for hanging and find a place to tie them! We used this bird cage photo holder, but there's plenty of places that would be fun! Try hanging your tags on a garland, the Christmas tree, tree branches in a vase, or even tie them around little gifts that you'll open on each day!

5. Each day, take time to add a number to the calendar all the way to the 25th! During these times, come together with your family to read parts of the Nativity story or Advent scripture readings.

I hope you enjoyed this super fun, super easy, DIY Advent Calendar!

Do you celebrate Advent? What do you do?

happy Wednesday!

DIY Advent Calendar- Tomorrow!

2011-12-13T15:30:00.000-06:00

Join me tomorrow in making your very own advent calendar! It's fun, easy, and you probably already have everything you'll need! I know the count down has already begun, but for any stragglers like me, it's never too late! :)

Hope your evening is full of Christmas anticipation!

Advent Conspiracy Update...

2011-12-13T08:00:00.001-06:00

I wrote a blog post a little while back about the Advent Conspiracy. You might be wondering what that means....

"The Advent Conspiracy is a movement. It’s tens of thousands of Christians around the world throwing the kind of birthday party Jesus loves. It started in 2006 with just four churches. Today there are Advent Conspirators in over 20 countries, celebrating Christmas more deeply and blessing others with safe drinking water, offered in Jesus’ name."

I hope you take a few minutes to watch the video...it has been so full in my heart this Christmas. Since it meant so much to me, I wanted to give y'all the opportunity to get involved in changing lives forever by spending less and giving more! Last week I posted ideas about how to spend less and give meaningful, heartfelt gifts. Thanks for your support and input! Feel free to check them out again as you do your shopping in the next couple of weeks.

I also offered free gift tags if anyone wanted to give the gift of clean water this Christmas and I was SO encouraged by the response! Those tags are the on the way to donors this week (thank you all!!!)

I took this photo on a snowy day in front of our Christmas tree. It really had me thinking of how easy and convenient it is for me to walk 5 steps to the fridge to get clean water in a bottle. I have water at my disposal for cleaning myself, dishes, my clothes, my home....to cook with, to drink...and I never have to wonder if there will be enough, where it will come from, or if it will make me or my loved ones sick.

Then I see this water bottle....

I felt inspired to create these gift tags using the water bottle image. I carved the stamp by hand, and each tag was hand stamped and some of them even embossed!

The back of the tags say....

I hope you'll continue to give to Living Water International this Christmas! Not only will you be giving a gift to a loved one, but also to someone who needs you!

Please give a gift at:

https://www.water.cc/take-action/give

Hope your days have been so merry and bright! Thanks for joining me in the Advent Conspiracy!

happy tuesday!

Twelve Dates of Christmas: Nutcracker Ballet!

2011-12-12T15:56:00.002-06:00

We continued our Christmas dates over the weekend including 2 office parties, lots of coffee, and a trip to the theater for The Nutcracker!

How beautiful is the ceiling of this theater?!? Like a night sky! And the lights twinkled too!

We LOVED the ballet! So beautiful!!!

After the show, in front of the Christmas tree!

This is after one of our office parties! You can't really tell, but we dressed pretty snazzy! Then we went for coffee and a little Christmas shopping. It was some really sweet time together!

Are y'all enjoying the season?!? I'd love to hear what you've been doing to celebrate!

happy monday!

Twelve Dates of Christmas!

2011-12-09T09:45:00.001-06:00

I got this fun idea from one of my favorite blogs, Rockstar Diaries! The idea is to make sure we spend some extra time enjoying the Christmas season together by planning to have Christmas dates!

So, last night we decided to go to the Midland College Holiday Evening! :)

It stared by hearing sweet singing and the beautifully lit tower...

Then we came inside for the art show and the beginning of our sugar coma....:)

Danielle had BEAUTIFUL ceramic pieces that we stared at in awe for a long time....I mean, look how amazing these are!!!

All of these beautiful feathers had a metallic finish to them...just lovely!

And this piece was a warm terra-cotta red color with touches of grey and so much incredible detail!

We wondered around the rest of the art show and started feeling the effects of the chocolate overload we had earlier, so we went over to the chapel. We had a blast reminiscing about our engagement there and enjoying the beautifully lit tree!

Such a fun Christmas date!!! We can't wait to celebrate Christmas time more this weekend! :)

-------------------------------------------

Thanks so much for checking out all of the posts this week about giving. I hope they helped you think of some creative gifts for your friends and family! I've been working on the water donation gift tags and they're still up for grabs if you're interested! Please email me with how many you'd like and your address! I'm planning to send them out next week. :)

I hit a milestone of 1000 posts this week! I think that's cause to celebrate....how about a giveaway next week?!?

Hope your weekend is wonderful! Take time to enjoy Christmas!

happy friday!

Instead of Giving Presents....

2011-12-08T08:00:00.006-06:00

This is another idea from the Advent Conspiracy book I'm reading. The fondest memories you have from Christmases past are probably not what gifts you got, but instead the TIME you spent with loved ones! Seems that some of the very best gifts you can give are the ones where you give of yourself. This doesn't cost much money, but it does require time and thought. It's similar to "Creative Giving", but giving your presence may leave the most lasting memory......more than any gift you could wrap!

Here are just a few ideas to get you started!!!

1. Have a Christmas party! It's the best to get all of your friends together and spend time celebrating together....can be a gift they'll never forget. :)

2. Volunteer! Giving your time to help someone who needs you in an AMAZING gift. Get your family and friends involved too.

3. Craft together! Build something! Cook a meal together!

4. Clean someone's home, car, office, etc.

5.Take a surprise trip! Doesn't have to be far, but a getaway might be just what someone needs!

6. Movie night- make it a date, a girls night, or a party!

7. Take a ride to look at Christmas lights together! :) (Be sure to include cocoa and Christmas music!)

8. Teach someone or buy them lessons- cooking, dancing, singing, yoga, golf, anything they love! (it's more fun if you get involved too!)

9. Old photo book/box dinner- open up a box of photos, memories and laughs over a meal! That way you'll be sure to have everyone together and telling stories long after dessert. :)

10. Make scrapbook together- of a family trip, holidays, birthdays, or even your wedding! Spend time talking about your favorite memories and be sure to write them in the book!

If you're wondering how to "give" a gift like this, here's a couple more ideas. You could wrap up a "gift certificate" or make a coupon book of activities to give away! Another way to give one of these gifts is to wrap up some things you could use during the time you'll spend together, like scrapbook supplies for creating a scrapbook, microwave popcorn for movie night, or a Christmas CD/gift card for cocoa for a Christmas light ride! Be sure to include a note too!

If you have more ideas, please share them in the comments! I can't wait to hear what y'all come up with!

happy *presence" day!

Keep Calm.....

2011-12-07T13:26:00.002-06:00

....it's the last custom painting of the season! :)

I was so excited to create a painting based on the poster that reads "Keep Calm and Carry On" created by the British government during WW2. It was "intended to raise the morale of the British public in the event of invasion" according to Wikipedia. My sweet friend asked me to paint this as a gift for her mom to put in her sewing room. She let me loose to create anything I wanted as long as it said "Keep Calm and Sew On" and here's what I came up with....

I decided to keep with the solid background and the layout of the original poster. Then I added some fun creative details!

I cut the letters and the silhouette of the sewing machine out of different fabrics and also added a button stitched onto the canvas to be the "o". Then I drew the "and" in cursive as if it were stitched as well!

I added a black outline to make everything easy to read and also add a "graphic" poster style punch!

I loved getting to create this painting and I think it's the perfect way to end my custom artwork in 2011! :) I'm looking forward to starting custom artwork again in 2012! If you're interested in having a custom painting or artwork created as a Christmas gift, ask about Specs & Wings gift cards! (specsandwings@gmail.com)

Or check out the shop for more fun gift ideas... www.specsandwings.etsy.com

keep calm and blog on!

Studio Christmas Trees!!!

2011-12-07T10:00:00.000-06:00

My mom and I spent some time sewing over the weekend and I made these little fabric trees to match our studio! The room is mustard, grey, black and white so I chose fabrics in those colors. I love the chevron fabric and the mustard doily! :)

Do you have any new decorations?

happy *decorating* day!

Fun to Give, Fun to Get!

2011-12-07T08:00:00.002-06:00

Gifts that you create are the most personal and heartfelt! They are SO fun to make and SO fun to get! These are the gifts that the recipient will always treasure. It's not about how much money it cost, it's about your HEART! This is an awesome way to join in the Advent Conspiracy....spend less, give more! :)

Here are some ideas to get you started....

Make Your Own Canvas Portrait by Elsie Larson of A Beautiful Mess

Hand-Stitched Personalized Heart Hoop! by Elsie Larson of A Beautiful Mess

A Book of Notes by Danni of Oh Hello Friend

Modern Feminine Mirror by Paper and Stitch

Zig-Zag Rug from Suzannah at Adventures in Dressmaking

Chalkboard Frame by Stafford Stories (DIY here)

Mustache Mug DIY! by Tortoise and the Hare

Handmade Coasters by Krista at Bayside Bride (also cute with photos!)

Easy Jar DIY from Danni at Oh Hello Friend

Are you making any of your gifts? Do you have any ideas?!? Please share them in the comments! We could all use more ideas for handmade Christmas gifts!

happy *handmade* wednesday!

A Midnight Snow...

2011-12-06T10:31:00.000-06:00

The other night, we looked out the window to find a midnight snow...

....which of course turned into a midnight stroll....

Then a morning ride...

...and this winter wonderland!

I love the look and feel of snow, it finally feels SO Christmas-y!

Is it snowing where you are?

happy *snowy* day!

Let's add some cheer with...

2011-12-06T08:00:00.001-06:00

Sometimes it's hard to think creatively about Christmas gifts. I mean, it's really easy to go a store and just pick up a nice sweater or a gift card, but wouldn't it be amazing to give someone something they'll never forget?!? It'll take a little time, probably less money [spend less], and lots of heart! Are you up for the challenge?

Start by thinking about the person you're giving the gift to. Think about your relationship, memories, and what would show that person that you really care. Maybe even brain storm on paper first! You might even want to get some other people in on it too! :) Think about the way that Jesus gave....it was personal and relational!

There are countless ways to give creatively, but here are a few ideas I found around the web...

Room Service!

“Room service please” is what I’m calling this customized gift that is perfect for so many occasions, such as an anniversary or a new baby arrival. Basically you’re giving someone the gift of a homemade meal delivered to their front door. Since presentation is everything, so they say, I’ve provided some ideas and free downloads so you can give that perfectly wrapped present!....see more here.

Gathered Memories

Ask your loved one's friends and family to write down a memory and send it in the mail (or email it for you to print out). Then present a stack of letters as a gift of gathered memories! See more here.

Can of Dates

This is one is a fun gift to give your husband/wife or give to a couple!

The creator of this gift said:

"I typed up many date ideas that I printed off on colored paper and folded up to fit into my can. Some of the date ideas involved additional items that could easily be tossed into the can as well. If you felt generous you could give a series of gift cards, money, or items to use on a date. Haven't we all had crazy nights where we wish someone would do the thinking for us! Hopefully this can will help create fun memories that will last a lifetime!"

See more here.

Pampering Kit

This creative idea was meant for a new mommy, but get creative and you could give it to anyone! Just think of the possibilities of what could go inside!

See more here.

Wedding Invite Ornament

This is SO SWEET! Make a Christmas ornament from a wedding invitation! From your wedding or give away to a couple! :) See more here.

Gift of Memories

"The first year is the least rewarding, but I imagine that in 10 years, it will be a daily treat to be reminded of what happened on that date over the last decade. I think these would make great gifts this season, not only for adults but also for older kids, baby showers, retirement parties, wedding showers and more."

See more here.

These are just a few ideas, but I'm sure y'all can think of lots more! In the book "Advent Conspiracy" I read about a son giving his dad a bag of coffee beans with a note that they could only be used to drink coffee together while telling stories that made him the man that he is! It's easy when you start thinking about it! Let's help each other be creative! Share your ideas in the comments of this post.

(more beautiful ideas by Design*Sponge here!)

happy *lovingly thoughtful* day!

Nothing Says Love at Christmas Like...

2011-12-05T08:00:00.003-06:00

---------------------------------------------------------

To continue this series on the Advent Conspiracy, I wanted to share some fun ideas for gifts that you can buy that also give back! I love all of these amazing shops and the stories behind them. Please take a few minutes and browse through these amazing goods and watch the videos or check out the websites to hear about the good that they are doing! You're SURE to find something for someone on your list (even guys and kids!) and at the same time help someone who needs you!

Let's give and give back! Shop away!

Eyewear with a Purpose.

"We believe that everyone has the right to see. Unfortunately, millions of people around the world today don’t have access to proper vision care. To help address this problem, Warby Parker partners with renowned non-profits, such as VisionSpring.org, to deliver one pair of glasses to someone in need for every pair that we sell. In doing so, we enable you to share the gift of vision with someone who can’t see today and give them the opportunity to read, to work and to live a fuller life."

www.warbyparker.com

"Kallie Dovel, traveled to Uganda in the summer of 2007, getting a first- hand look at life in Northern Uganda. While she was there, she met women making paper beads but who lacked a plan to market and sell them. After spending time in their homes and hearing their stories, Kallie knew there had to be a way to give opportunities to her new friends. She brought a box of jewelry back to the U.S., and spent the next year finishing her degree and dreaming up the concept of a development organization. She brought a few friends on board and her ideas quickly evolved into 31 Bits. The girls traveled back to Uganda in August 2008, and selected six women to begin buying jewelry from on a monthly basis. Since then, we have grown to 99 women; each with a unique story of suffering that has been overcome with joy and liberation. Find out more about what we do in Uganda here."

www.31bits.com

"our passion at noonday collection is to connect you with the lives of artisans struggling for a better future while styling you along the way. fashion and design are a vehicle for opportunity and change. you, too, can be a voice for the oppressed!"

Check out their story here.

www.noondaycollection.com

Scarlet Threads

Work. Dignity. Beauty.

"Scarlet Threads is a compassionate boutique, specializing in unique products designed and produced by talented seamstresses in rural Asia. The perfect gift for bridal showers, holidays, or any special occasion, all Scarlet Threads products are fairly traded and created in compliance with our core vision and values. When you purchase one of our beautiful hand-crafted products, you become part of our story by providing a woman with safe and rewarding work. "

The result?

Dignity, which is always beautiful and never goes out of style.

One for One Movement

"In 2006, American traveler Blake Mycoskie befriended children in Argentina and found they had no shoes to protect their feet. Wanting to help, he created TOMS Shoes, a company that would match every pair of shoes purchased with a pair of new shoes given to a child in need. One for One. Blake returned to Argentina with a group of family, friends and staff later that year with 10,000 pairs of shoes made possible by TOMS customers."

www.toms.com

"PUNJAMMIES™ are made by women in India rescued from forced prostitution seeking to rebuild their lives. Proceeds from the sales of PUNJAMMIES™ provide fair-trade wages, savings accounts, and holistic recovery care. Please support International Princess™ Project as we bring hope and a voice to those who have none."

http://www.punjammies.com

I hope that you'll take an opportunity to show someone how much you care and also give back to these amazing causes! If you're interested in giving to Living Water International in someone's name and getting free handmade tags check out this post!

happy *giving* day!

Advent Conspiracy Week of Giving!

2011-12-02T10:00:00.005-06:00

I'm really excited about next week! I'm going to share some more ideas from the Advent Conspiracy!

I'll be posting about....

I can't wait to share these fun ideas with you!

happy weekend!!!

Pink Bow Ties!

2011-12-02T08:00:00.003-06:00

I was so honored to make these little pink bow ties for a sweet friend's wedding! More things I've never tried before, but I have to say, it was really fun! I think I need to make some little hair bows for myself! :)

Have you tried anything new lately? Been on any adventures? Why/ why not and what were they?

happy friday!

Fabric Christmas Trees in the Shop!

2011-12-01T08:00:00.000-06:00

The other night....I decided to make a whole forest of fabric trees for the shop! ;)

These make me so happy! I love to decorate my house with these little guys each year for Christmas. It's fun to mix and match them too! I have new MINI sizes along with lots of different shapes and heights!

You can get your Fabric Christmas Trees in the shop! www.specsandwings.etsy.com

Christmas Etsy Wrapping!

2011-11-30T10:00:00.000-06:00

I was so excited to start wrapping up etsy orders for Christmas time! Here are a few that are shipping out of the studio this week...

Snowflake stamped package with a a gingham bag tied in red twine

Plaid deco tape package with stamped holly and a cozy coffee tag tied to the bag of goodies with green twine

Red houndstooth deco tape package with stamped trees and a brown paper package tied up with string

Inked and "echoed" snowflake stamped package with red tinsel string

Plaid deco tape with chevrons and snowflakes!

Do you like to wrap up Christmas presents? What are your favorite designs, supplies, and colors?!? I'd love to hear your ideas! :)

happy wednesday!

Custom Tree Trio!

2011-11-30T08:00:00.000-06:00

I was SO EXCITED to make this little set of trees for a sweet friend! Her decorations are red and white with touches of lime. CUTE! Plus she loves snowflakes, so here's what I came up with...

What do you think? How do you decorate for Christmas?

happy wednesday!

Advent Conspiracy!

2011-11-29T10:40:00.000-06:00

I heard about the Advent Conspiracy a few weeks ago and since then, God has been working on my heart about Christmas. I know He's changing me and I want to worship fully, spend less, give more and love all! It's been on my heart to share this with y'all because it means so much to me. I'd love for y'all to get involved too! Check out this video from "Advent Conspiracy":

How about you? Would you consider making this a season of CONSPIRACY together?! It's changing the way I think about this season and I'd love it if you would join me in making this Christmas different than ever before! What would that look like for you? Find out more at: http://www.adventconspiracy.org

Christmas CAN still change the world! Advent Conspiracy has teamed up with Living Water International to give us an opportunity to Give More! Did you know that 3,900 children die each day from the lack of clean water? Your gift of only $10 could give a child clean water for life! Find out more here!

I'm SO EXCITED about you guys joining the conspiracy that I'm offering a free gift to you!

Here's what you can do....

1. Make a donation to "Living Water International" in honor of your friends and family this Christmas. You can donate here or give a gift card so your loved one can experience the gift of giving here.

2. I am going to create Christmas tags that say "The gift of clean water was given in your name this Christmas". You'll be able to tie them to you gifts, hand made creations, baked goods or even put them in your Christmas cards! Email me (specsandwings@gmail.com) with your address and how many tags you'd like and I'll mail them to you for free!

3. Tell your friends and family about the difference made in the lives of people around the world!

I can't wait to get started! Thanks for listening and joining in! If you'd like to read this book, you can get it here. I'm still reading it and learning so much!

I'll be sharing more soon about giving creatively! Thanks for listening!

NEW Doily Snow Gloves !

2011-11-29T08:00:00.001-06:00

NEW for Specs & Wings .....

Each pair features cute little crocheted doilies that look like snow! They look so dainty, vintage and pretty...plus they'll keep you warm!

They would make sweet gifts too! Get yours at www.specsandwings.etsy.com!

happy tuesday!

Kitchen Counter Press!

2011-11-28T14:43:00.001-06:00

I thought y'all might like a little tour through the "Kitchen Counter Press" (cleverly named by my husband!) I have been thinking about these designs for months and although I had MANY projects going, I knew I had to work this one in! I have never made sets of Christmas cards before but I loved it! It's something I'd love to try again. I used a process similar to stamping that I learned in my Printmaking 101 class in college...

I started by drawing out my designs on paper and then made them backwards before transferring the designs to the stamps. Once I had the designs on the rubber stamps, I used carving tools (thanks Danielle!) to carve my design into the block. See more photos here.

Once my stamps were carved, I spread plastic over the kitchen counters and went to work! I used a brayer to ink the stamp and put the card on top of the stamp block. I used a dry brayer to roll over the back of the card and get an even cover of ink.

Then I pulled the card from the stamp and set it out to dry. This is when I also took over the dining room table. :)

Once one side was dry, I was able to go back and stamp the backs of each card as well!

Once both sides were dry, I used a tiny hole punch to put two holes in the tops of the cards. Then I tied baker's twine through each hole to make them into ornaments! (using two holes keeps the card from spinning!)

And there you have it! It's ready for your sweet words to be written and sent to friends and family!

I hope you enjoyed this little peek into the press and the process!

You can get your Christmas cards today at www.specsandwings.etsy.com

NEW Advent Christmas Card/Ornament Sets!

2011-11-28T10:13:00.001-06:00

Guess what finally arrived in the Specs & Wings Etsy Shop?!? My very first Advent Christmas Card/Ornament Sets!

Each card is hand printed on both sides in red ink onto kraft brown cards. The front of the card says "Love Came" and the back says "Love is Coming". Each card also features a piece of brown and white twine so that the card can also hang on a Christmas tree or wreath!

Each set contains 10 cards and matching envelopes!

During this season, I love to think about when Christ (love!) came as a baby and how the people had been waiting in anticipation for Him! Now, we as believers anxiously await His return, as well! The advent season means so much and this is just a fun way to encourage your family and friends and celebrate the HOPE we have in Jesus!

You can get your set in the shop here: www.specsandwings.etsy.com

I hope you had a great Thanksgiving! We sure did, lots of yummy food and time with family. :)

I have SO MUCH to share with y'all this week including the making of these cards, new doily gloves, fabric Christmas trees, bow ties for a wedding, Christmas packaging and more!

happy monday!

Christmas Cards....{in the studio}

2011-11-22T09:51:00.000-06:00

I've been working on this idea for awhile now and I can't wait to share it with you! I thought you might enjoy a peek of this project in the works..... new hand printed CHRISTMAS CARDS!!!

I can't wait to finish them up and have them in the S&W etsy shop soon!

happy tuesday!

15% Off!

2011-11-21T09:40:00.000-06:00

Enjoy a little shopping time at www.specsandwings.etsy.com without the hustle and bustle of crowds and loss of sleep! Each item is handmade and will be wrapped with love before it's shipped!

Enjoy a little peaceful shopping online today and get 15% off your whole purchase with the code "holiday"!

happy monday!

Vintage Tattoo Camera TOMS!

2011-11-18T09:27:00.001-06:00

When Mari asked me to paint her old red TOMS I could hardly contain myself! We agreed on a theme of vintage cameras (like her dad's!) in a tattoo style. It was a BLAST to paint them! Take a look...

This is Mari's favorite photography quote by Dolly Parton in Steel Magnolias! LOVE IT!

I used a touch of metalic paint in the film so that it glimmers in the sun just a little!

Here's a photo by Mari of her new shoes!

...and another she took of herself wearing them!

I'm SO EXCITED that she loved them! She told me she was going to wear them to the Breaking Dawn premiere last night (so jealous! Team Edward!) and to her next wedding shoot!!!

Check out Mari's amazing photography here.

happy friday everyone!

Holiday Update!!!

2011-11-17T15:48:00.001-06:00

Enjoy! www.specsandwings.etsy.com

Specs and Wings

Love is in the Air!

Celebration GIVEAWAY!

Lovely Birthday!

Pretty Post!

Guest on Art by Britt!

3 Cheers!

MAP Packaging Designs

Celebrate with Us!

Spotted: Mini Flower Birthday!

Anniversary Trip!

Behind the Scenes of Being Published!

Artful Blogging!

Our 3rd 365!

Guestbook Makeover!

I *heart* Valentines Packaging!

"TO-DO" Frame DIY!

Getting it Together!

Legit.

Infinity Scarf Remix DIY!

My Style Icons!

Regroup.

mmmm Thai House!

Silhouette Sewing Machine Cover!

Priorities.

Happy Birthday Handsome!

Sneak Peek....

Mini Flower Favors!

Specs & Wings in Ethiopia!

No Regrets!

A Last Look at Christmas!

What Are You Doing New Years Eve?

Specs & Wings Year in Review 2011!

Advent Conspiracy....Gift Tags!

Oops!

A Little Holiday Sewing!

I'm Dreaming of a White Christmas...

A Snapshot of Our Christmas!

Merry Christmas!!!

A Few Words....

An Accountant Christmas!

HELLO Dream Job!

Christmas Cheer!

D+R Wedding Invitation Design

Link Love Friday- Christmas Edition!

Christmas Tag Inspiration!

DIY Advent Calendar!

DIY Advent Calendar- Tomorrow!

Advent Conspiracy Update...

Twelve Dates of Christmas: Nutcracker Ballet!

Twelve Dates of Christmas!

Instead of Giving Presents....

Keep Calm.....

Studio Christmas Trees!!!

Fun to Give, Fun to Get!

A Midnight Snow...

Let's add some cheer with...

Nothing Says Love at Christmas Like...

Eyewear with a Purpose.

Scarlet Threads

Work. Dignity. Beauty.

Advent Conspiracy Week of Giving!

Pink Bow Ties!

Fabric Christmas Trees in the Shop!

Christmas Etsy Wrapping!

Custom Tree Trio!

Advent Conspiracy!

NEW Doily Snow Gloves !

Kitchen Counter Press!

NEW Advent Christmas Card/Ornament Sets!

Christmas Cards....{in the studio}

15% Off!

Vintage Tattoo Camera TOMS!

Holiday Update!!!

I heart Valentines Packaging!