Preston Bailey is an incredible event designer, but he also has an inspiring journey of how he got there. His blog is a fascinating read, and today's post held these 10 reminders he keeps with him each day...I think I'll be doing the same:

1. Realize that life is a school and you are here to learn. Problems and obstacles are simply part of the curriculum that appear and fade away like algebra class, but the lessons you learn will last a lifetime.
2. Don’t compare your business to others, you have no idea what their journey is all about.
3. Envy is a waste of time. You already have all you need.
4. Don’t take yourself too seriously. No one else does.
5. What other people think of you is none of your business.
6. However good or bad a situation is, it will change.
7. No matter how you feel, get up, dress up and show up.
8. Don’t waste your precious energy on gossip.
9. Forgive everyone for everything
10. Always remember: The best is yet to come, if you let it.

Everyone Loves Pie!

Yes, we sure do! A few months ago, I was asked to design a logo and blog header for a fun project called, "Everyone Loves Pie." This blog was the genius idea of a good friend of mine, Sara Gray (the brilliant wedding photographer). She even hosted a lovely Pie Party, so I can tell you from experience, she knows her pies, and her recipes are absolutely delicious! So, if you love baking, or eating delicious desserts, follow Sara on her adventures at Everyone Loves Pie.

sa wat dee ka!

My brother, Jon has been in the northern region of Thailand installing a water system for a village there. He has been there for the last 2 weeks, and we just got word from him today via his blog sa wat dee ka! I have no clue what the translation is. He'll be traveling all around Thailand and surrounding countries "alone" for the next month or so...I'm sure he'll be meeting and traveling with all kinds of people he meets along the way. I'm so eager to hear his stories! He just graduated with a Mechanical Engineering degree from OSU, and within days of finishing up classes, he set off for helping the people of Thailand. I'm so excited to see where his journey and talent will lead! Anyway, all of this to say, that if you want to follow his adventures in Thailand, check out his blog. I've posted one of my favorite pictures of him below (he's not going to appreciate this)...taken on our family trip this past December to Cabo.

Working hard for the money!

For some of us, we don't earn our bread and butter by pursing our passions 40+ hours a week. I know I could probably fill a novel with how much I've complained about this in my own life. When you're in the trenches, it's hard to see the horizon. It's hard to see what you're working for. But chin up my friends, keep working hard! Working long hours at a difficult job you don't like, solving impossible and frustrating problems, blazing a solution when there is resistance, dealing with difficult people (for some, that is putting it nicely)...these things build a confidence that you can do anything. I'd argue, a confidence you might not have otherwise. It doesn't matter where you build this confidence, or what your position is. But once you have it, when that perfect opportunity comes around, you'll be ready to jump. Just be sure to keep an eye on the horizon...even if you have to stand on your tippy-toes to see from the trench. Oh, and one more thing...don't forget to be grateful for your time in the trenches. That is where you will grow your wings. But if you're not looking at the horizon, you'll never need them.

Style Me Pretty - we made it!

My husband and I participated with local wedding vendors to pull off a "Mock Wedding." Not only was it pulled off, but we were published on the amazing wedding blog I have been inspired by and followed for a long time, Style Me Pretty! Check out our post and vendor list here. Sara Gray, who was the incredible photographer, has a post here. Finally, enjoy some pictures from the "big" day!

What comes easily to you, and is hard for other people?

Think about it for a moment... I stumbled upon this question from Farrah Gary, in an old magazine tear out. Are you stumped? Let that question sit for a moment... What comes easily to you, and is hard for other people? It can be absolutely anything. Do you have a funny knack for frosting the perfect cookie, building a project timeline, or coming up with creative ways to organize things? Is there something that you find yourself gravitating toward, something you look forward to doing, or a task that invigorates you? Don't filter what comes to mind. Write a list (this is hard, I know). Even if you only have one item, allow yourself to think about it, mull over it, pick it apart. You'll not only learn more about yourself, but you may also discover an opportunity to pursue a passion you didn't realize was there.

Enjoy Cupcakes

You know that feeling you get when someone does something wonderful? Something so genius that you wish you would have thought of it first? When I learned of Enjoy Cupcakes via Style Me Pretty's post, that was my first thought! They're a sweet little business on wheels, offering cupcakes to those who pass by their trailer. Really, the pictures do all the talking. If you're fortunate enough to be in Santa Ynez Valley, CA, and see this cute little trailer putsing around, please do me a favor and stop for a cupcake.

Gold Leaf Rocks

What better way to fight to post-holiday blues than by getting crafty? I stumbled upon this "Gold Leaf Rocks" project months ago on Design*Sponge, and in my blogging hiatus, never shared this wonderful idea until now! It's pretty easy, all the supplies you'll need can be found at most craft stores (and in your own backyard), and you get instant results (for those of you who are especially into that). This project makes for great treasures to give as gifts, place cards for an event, or even just an artful addition to your home of office! It's funny, you'll never look at a rock the same again!