DIYS

I Love to Watch You GLOW ( plus a bonus craft: pressed flower lanterns)

January 18, 2026 by Monica 1 Comment

Why do we love the glow of Christmas lights so much? Is it that they bring warmth, joy, inner feelings of serenity and peace?

What is it about the glow of a tree, a fireplace, a candle? The coziness is contagious.

As I sit here and ponder this- I am still surrounded by each and everything Christmas I put up last month. Yes, you read that right. Come on in and cozy up on the couch in one of my 84 Christmas blankets by the fire- which is still framed in 6 feet of flocked illuminated garland, a bevy of vintage bronze bells, and a half dozen sophisticated, sleek, silver deer who are proudly holding tight to the boho winter white stockings hanging softly and sweetly below.

Who on earth wouldn’t want to be surrounded in that? And friends, that’s only the living room….

Every corner, bookshelf, and bathroom is lit up with something. Keeping the glow and coziness in my home a little longer into the New Year has been good for my senses and is doing wonders for my soul.

It’s as if my home is beckoning to me, “Monica- no matter what is going on outside- it’s alright in here. Come, rest, bury yourself: there is joy to be found.”

Okay, before you accuse me of watching entirely too many Hallmark movies combined with Bluey episodes- bear with me.

I made a connection over Christmas between keeping the glow going and where it ultimately comes from.

Interested?
Read on…

First, it’s important to note that going into the Christmas season, my husband, my dear sweet husband, requested that I not over purchase this year just because we had a new house to decorate.

Now, I obviously remember that he said that. I just didn’t listen to it all the time.

Like when I bought 9 new garlands, 3 more trees, and the cutest little candy village house for the kitchen bay window. Now, the most appealing part of this new decor was that it was all battery operated- no more will my creativity be a slave to the proximity of an outlet! Be gone extra extension cords! Hello, happiness!

At this junction, I will go back in time to another quick conversation between my husband and I where he looked at the heaping pile of Amazon boxes at our doorstep, frowned, and reminded me of his original request, to which I quickly responded- “I will save money in other ways! I promise!”

Now, if you’re still with me in this timeline-
I’m now in over my head with new Christmas decor and deep in a promise to my husband to stop spending.

Where can I cut corners, I thought?!!!

Ah, I’ve got it.
( and this is where you should please keep reading but promptly stop listening to me for advice.)

Toilet paper and batteries!

What, you ask?

That was my solution. To save money on the two things I KNEW we’d need a ton of this time of year.

I’m a genius, I thought.

So, onto Amazon to order – I scroll past the recommended and top tier brands- ah- not this year! You’re not getting my money, you overpriced purchases!

I select the cheapest choices for both TP and batteries with newfound wisdom and happily hit the big, blue button.
Wow.
It is always this easy to help save the world, one family at a time? – I thought to myself smugly.

If the writing gig doesn’t pan out for me, I can certainly become the world’s best and most frugal personal shopper!

Well, folks- it doesn’t take a rocket scientist to predict how the next few weeks went.

Every morning, I would wake up to something unlit.

I spent so many hours running around my house, going room to room, replacing the new things and ALL the other older decorations that needed to be lit up- it was like I was training for a new Olympic sport.

Little snowy houses, twinkly snowy globes, table top trees, flickering window tapers- between fixing them all- I sailed through my once-packed box of 100 batteries.

And the cheap TP, well, I’m still hearing about that one. And I have a feeling I always will.

So, my friends- what is my take away?

A few questions for us all.

What is the actual source of that warm, illuminating glow?

Do we hinge that warmth and happiness on temporary fixes? Or because of something surrounding us? Only to be taken down a month later?

Or is it from something more? Something deeper? Maybe even not connected to the outside world at all… with lasting effects?

Now, this is not an ad for Energizer. Or a hand slap on bobo brands. I’m still the queen of frugal finds! Although, I’m not even a bit fibbing when I tell you the minute I exchanged my triple A’s for my husbands not-so-secret stash of Energizer ones, that adorable candy Christmas village house in the kitchen window lit up like a tiny, miniature version of the Chevy Chase movie.

Magical!

( See what I did there? Cheap batteries = less light, aka: non-lasting joy… this is some deep stuff, right?)

Let’s ponder how to keep that “glow” past Christmas, past the New Year, even into the dreary months of winter when the constant chill outside and crabbiness inside seem to haunt each day.

We can. If we create it around us because of what is cultivated deep inside of us.

We were created for more. Not just to feel warm and cozy when everything around us is. But to find true contentment and happiness and joy that radiates light even when things are dark.

Your Heavenly Father wants to be your source- of light, love, joy, peace, and so much more.

If the glow of Christmas is truly what brings your soul to life ( meeeeeeee) then think of this as if someone just gave you the keys to that feeling all year round. It’s true.

For your home: I’m giving us all permission to buy a few more candles, keep up any winter garlands, curl up in that cozy couch blanket, and light up that ficus tree in the corner of your room. ( I realize I might get some “un-fan mail” from a few husband on that one…)

And on the inside: remember the truth- the light that comes from God cannot be taken down or put out. No matter what day, or month, or how many clouds are in the sky, or how many mad faces our teens give us.

If I listen closely, I can hear Him beckoning, too.

“Monica- no matter what is going on outside- it’s alright in here. Come, rest, bury yourself: there is joy to be found.”

There it is- I found the glow…

And with no batteries needed.

Bonus craft: DIY pressed flower lanterns

Materials: mason jars of any size, Mod Podge, sponge brush or paint brush, paper flowers/pressed flowers, votive candle ( or battery candle), mat to work on

Step 1) After washing your jar and drying it, apply a heavy coat of Mod Podge all over the outside.

Step 2) Pick your flowers and gently press them into the layer of glue.

Step 3) Finish with another layer of Mod Podge to secure the flowers into place.

Step 4) Allow jar to dry completely.

Step 5) Add your candle inside and enjoy the beautiful glow!

Like this craft? Hungry for more?

Check out my newest CRAFTING book- including 30 crafts and heart warming devotionals!

A Christmas to Remember, not Formember

December 15, 2025 by Monica 1 Comment

As I have started typing this, I’ve stopped 12 times. Not because a baby was crying, or the doorbell rang, or a pot of water was bubbling over… rather, because I am one hundred percent distracted at this time of year.

I have gotten up to straighten the garland on my stairs, which brings me so much joy, but needed a few tweaks with the berries and eucalyptus intermingling. Then I sit down and notice it needs more. I have microwaved my coffee no less than 7 times. I have changed the YouTube Christmas station twice. I have daydreamed about what exact pop-of-red should go on my new flocked tree. And that is only the tip of the iceberg.

Why am I so distracted?

Is it possible that the things that I have poured myself into and dawned my senses and stairways with, are bringing me joy but along with an element of surface static that interferes with true peace?

Now, I am absolutely not suggested we rip down the decorations, turn off the music, and drink cold coffee. ( That sounds like pure torture to me!) However, we might need to train our brains and hearts to filter through the world’s noise- be it with our ears, eyes, or feelings-and grab a hold of the true sense of the season- the Truth.

Something that I struggle with, a real false platform for joy- (a foolproof set up for disappointment) is trying to recreate things year after year. Not classic traditions, but moments and memories that are hinged on EVERY single detail being strategically acted out like a scene from a play. Year after year.

Do you know why this is impossible to do? Because life changes. Children grow up, you move, your favorite stores move, Santas village moves, your jeans might not fit the same, and you can’t find the box of inflatables for the front lawn. ( These are insanely accurate…)

If all my joy comes in the form of a box- from the basement, from Amazon, or from memories in my head- what happens when things are lost? Or delayed? Changed or forgotten?

This year, I am embarking on a journey to open my arms to embrace change in the unknown and new, while anchoring my heart in the traditions and unshakable true meaning.

We need to remember.

It can be lost in the garlands, the shopping, the parties, the rushing, in the busy.

My sweet four-year-old, June, has coined the phrase ,”Formember.” Bless her heart, she is trying to correctly say “remember,” but it comes out as an adorable merge of the two opposites: forget and remember.

She had me thinking over microwaving my coffee not long ago, that we do this a lot.

We formember. We forget all the good within a moment, we forget all the ways in which we have been blessed, we forget the true meaning in it all. But we sure remember what didn’t happen, how we were disappointed, how things didn’t measure up, and how we’ve let people down. We keep track of these things like Santa’s magic list, yet the important things have escaped our minds.

This, my friends, could be why this time of year feels so hard, so heavy, so overwhelming.

It isn’t meant to be this way.

Is there a place where we could lean into change, imperfect plans, fallen garlands, and grown-up lists: and let Him in?

The word Emmanuel means God with us. He is here, He is coming again. But are we ready? Have we made room in our busy lives to welcome the baby- the One who saves?

For all the Christmas Carol fans, a little trivia…

Do you know what the word Ebenezer means? Where it comes from?

“The prophet Samuel set up a stone, calling it “Ebenezer” (Stone of Help) to commemorate God’s deliverance of Israel from the Philistines, signifying “Thus far the Lord has helped us”. It’s a spiritual practice of building tangible or mental monuments (like collecting tokens or memories) to remember God’s faithfulness, fostering gratitude and faith for future challenges, and preventing forgetfulness…”

-Google

Charles Dickens chose his main character’s name, not randomly, but in honor of the true meaning of Christmas.

To remember all that God has done, not just be grateful one day a year.

The world wants us to forget.

To quickly gobble up the turkey, then set up our trees, buy presents so early we’ll forget about them in the top part of our closets, get sidetracked with details and dates steadily pushing the lines of our calendars, only to ultimately forget something or someone, and to trek tirelessly through the next weeks- only to finally flop on the couch, exclaiming, “I’m done.”

Sound familiar?

I heard a song on my Country Christmas playlist the other morning entitled, “Make it to Christmas.” The lyrics were heavy laden with pains and tears, frustrations and heartaches, willing and wishing the season to hurry up and be over with a quick countdown.

Oh, how that song made me feel! I don’t want to just make it to Christmas. I want to wait and wonder, pray and ponder, take notice of the naughty, but focus on the nice that we are all capable of, and then fall on my knees at the fragile manger holding my precious Savior.

I want to remember.

Every detail of that breathtaking night.

The prophesies come true, the very first cry breaking the silence, the (hundreds of) angels overtaking the sky, the awe-struck shepherds, the star steadily shining and guiding, and the foundation of faith overshadowing any fear still in Mary’s heart…

Mary pondered. She remembered God’s promises, His Word, His faithfullness and love, and she clung to that with all the unknowns the future held.

Because when you remember, you are changed.

The lyrics from “Do You Hear What I Hear?” spell it out.

[Intro]
Do you hear what I hear?

[Verse 1]
Said the night wind to the little lamb
Do you see what I see?
Do you see what I see?
Way up in the sky, little lamb
Do you see what I see?
Do you see what I see?
A star, a star, dancing in the night
With a tail as big as a kite
With a tail as big as a kite

[Verse 2]
Said the little lamb to the shepherd boy
Do you hear what I hear?
Do you hear what I hear?
Ringing through the sky, shepherd boy
Do you hear what I hear?
Do you hear what I hear?
A song, a song, high above the trees
With a voice as big as the sea
With a voice as big as the sea

[Verse 3]
Said the shepherd boy to the mighty king
Do you know what I know?
Do you know what I know?
In your palace warm, mighty king
Do you know what I know?
Do you know what I know?
A child, a child shivers in the cold
Let us bring Him silver and gold
Let us bring Him silver and gold

[Verse 4]
Said the king to the people everywhere:
Listen to what I say
Pray for peace, people everywhere
Listen to what I say
The child, the child, sleeping in the night
He will bring us goodness and light
He will bring us goodness and light

First we see, then we hear, we begin to know, then we can tell.

Spread the Good News of great tidings!

If you are weary, REMEMBER He came to restore, strengthen, and heal.

If change scares you, REMEMBER He is the same yesterday, today, and tomorrow.

If you don’t feel full of joy, REMEMBER the heavens and angels rejoicing with His long-awaited arrival.

If you are overwhelmed, REMEMBER that He brings overwhelming peace and hope.

It is in Jesus that we find it all.

And there is no better time to remember that then now.

Merry Christmas, everyone! God bless!

BONUS : Christmas Craft- Galaxy Ornaments

Materials: clear plastic ornaments, baking soda, your favorite colors in craft paints, ribbon for stringing ( & paper plates and mats to help reduce messes)

Step 1) Open the ornament by taking off the top. Pour in about a tablespoon of baking soda.

Step 2) Move the ornament around to evenly distribute the baking soda throughout the inside. You will see a slight white film.

Step 3) Pour in your favorite color paints- in no particular order! I just squeeze for a few seconds and then switch colors. *my recommendation is to add white, a pearl color, black, or shimmery gold- they add such depth!

Step 4) Put the top of the ornament back on and turn sideways to gently start the swirling process. This is important: DO NOT RAPIDLY MIX! Or TURN UPSIDE DOWN. You want the colors to gradually touch and blend- this is the cool process by which the baking soda keeps the colors true and not muddy. And the excess paint will leak out of the hole in the top if you hold it upside-down :o(

*keep gently tilting until you like the finished product ( it will somewhat keep moving around for an hour or do, once hung on the tree)

Step 5) Tie a ribbon and hang!

True Colors ( plus a bonus pumpkin decor DIY!)

October 6, 2023 by Monica 4 Comments

I love a good meme. I saw some the other day that were surrounding Fall and they just gave me a good giggle. The one that got me the most-

Two weekends ago, when the weather dipped below 80 degrees, I busted out my crockpot- made 15 lbs of chili, let my husband watch endless hours of college football instead of Bluey, lit up every pumpkin pie spice latte candle in the house, and threw on my only chunky sweater.

You could say I was ready for the change.

The funny thing was, the change did not actually last very long. Within the next week- we were back up in the 80’s. And I’m still eating leftover chili.

What is it about this magical season that we long for? One of my daughters pointed out the other day on the way to school that, “I beg for summer and sunny, warm weather and then when I get it, all I want is winter and cold, snowy weather.” Yup. Sounds about right.

As much as people claim to not like change, there seems to be a true pining, a yearning for it each year. I believe it’s why the Fall season is so widely loved. With hints of cinnamon, apple, and pumpkin in our foods, warmth in the textures of our clothes, a chill in the air, and a place by the fire calling our names- it all just makes for a welcoming, friendly time of year.

And for me, it’s the leaves. Not to sound cliche or even silly- but I truly love watching the leaves change. In fact, I was so busy admiring the leaves on a huge Maple tree, that I was a sitting duck for falling acorns. One hit me so hard directly on the crown of my head that I actually yelled out, “OUUUUUUCH! That really HURT!” It was so loud that I apparently scared the dickens out of June laying there in the stroller.

I shared in my latest book, Just Compose Yourself, (in a list of confessions) that I once packed my ziplock bags, dusted off my best sneakers, and holding a flyer from a telephone pole that read “Neighborhood Leaf Collection”- went out to meet my neighbors… to collect leaves.

Turns out… that I was slightly mistaken, and the trucks were coming to grab piles of your raked up leaves. And that was it.

So, after a good laugh every year at this time, I still stop and pick up leaves, collecting them as a reminder of the beauty within.

I say within, because- get ready- a fun, scientific fact about Fall leaves: the color has been in them the whole time. Due to the lessening of the sun shining, and the lack of chlorophyll created, the overwhelming green diminishes, and the leave’s true colors are revealed.

Having that little tidbit of information in my back pocket has helped me with all the changes going on in my own life. This is a busy time of year. I am now spending the better portion of my day in the car-commuting my children to their different schools, toting a tantrum-y toddler around, (she actually launched a handful of Dunkin’ Donuts tater tots at me from the backseat yesterday) helping with hours of homework and test prep, signing permission slips left and right, all while trying not to burn dinner, dropping and cheering the girls at their three different sports, and tucking them all in with bedtime stories and kisses. And as a result- not even getting close to knocking things off my own daily to-do or would-like-to-do lists.

To be honest, it’s very tempting to lay down each night underappreciated and wake up each day overwhelmed.

But, as I rise each morning, to a quiet, dark house- I have tried to sit up in bed and whisper these 16 simple words before ever touching the floor or grabbing my phone. And believe me, the devil will take swings at you when you try this- telling you that this is too small of a step and it won’t make a difference. But friends, it is making a difference- all the difference in the world.

It’s a reset button. It’s not one more thing- it’s the ONLY thing, when I’m feeling this way. When I’m overwhelmed, I’m choosing to be overwhelmed by Him. I feel it setting the stage for Thankfulness- realizing I am still blessed while over my head in the mess.

And being “glad”? It requires opening our eyes, ears, and other senses to the good (its in there!) that lies beneath. Sometimes it’s just buried beneath the to-do’s, the paperwork, the miles in the car, the hugs and heartaches.

No day has been perfect, but there is more joy in my Fall season this year. And it’s not just my from the warmth of chunky sweater or the sweet smell of the hundreds of pumpkin spice everything. It’s truly as if I’m seeing all the beauty and colors in my daily world that had actually always been there, but were covered up before.

So, my friends- pick up that PSL, go for a walk, and look around. Recite Psalm 118 and meditate on those words. The Lord made this day. The next 24 of your hours are a gift. So, embrace it for all can be and all it is. See the beauty in the true colors of the spilled coffee, the mistakes and mayhem, remembering that seasons come and seasons go. But there is good to be glad in. Just don’t forget to watch for those falling acorns.

BONUS-DIY pumpkin decor

CUTENESS overload, right? These are so easy to make- just follow the simple steps below!

Materials: ( I used everything laying around my house- when I want to craft- I want to craft right away! )

ribbon in orange-y colors
a background- I used leftover tiles from Coaster craft night – you could also use a canvas, card stock, an old picture frame, etc.
gold wire or wired twine
brown card stock or a brown paper bag
scissors and glue gun

Step 1) Take the end of your first ribbon and after twisting it a bit, pinch to hold tight.

Step 2) Make a dot of hot glue in the center of your background and push your twisted ribbon onto it.

Step 3) Continue to twist your ribbon and gluing it in a circle.

Step 4) Decide when you want to switch the ribbon colors- it could be a back and forth pattern or just half and half! Cut the first ribbon free.

Step 5) Take your second ribbon and following step 1, attach it right to the end of your first ribbon. Begin twisting and winding and gluing.

Step 6) Finish your pumpkin shape and cut the ribbon free.

Step 7) Cut a stem from the brown card stock and glue it on top.

Step 8) Wrap your finger in the gold wire to curl it, cut free, and glue it to the stem.

Voila! Display and enjoy!

Balanced as a Bookshelf

January 15, 2023 by Monica 1 Comment

The takedown of the Christmas decorations brings about a serious sadness in our house.

Where there once was light and bright, there is now dust and drab. However, instead of getting stuck in a state of depression this year, I decided to invite the girls to help re-do our bookshelves. I hoped it might bring a bit of excitement, change, and a possible trip to Homesense or Hobby Lobby if I played my cards right. While Mattie was the only taker, truth be told- letting go of the control and watching her artistically place things here and there with a smile, brought some much-needed joy my heart was yearning.

I have been asked many times over the years about staging and styling a home, and while observing Mattie at work, I pondered the possibility that styling a bookshelf might be somehow connected to working on our hearts. I started making a list ( I love lists…) and before I knew it- my t-chart revealed something: they ARE related! And with a little of this and a little of that, all stitched together, one might achieve the ultimate goal- Balance in BOTH!

So, here we go. My attempt to prove that bookshelves and hearts might just be able to use the same “fixer uppers.”

1) Surround yourself with those you love.

In your home: Have those funny, sweet, cherished memories in frames and right on the shelf for you to see and remember. Baby pictures, trips, gatherings, heartfelt notes and sketches- all that you hold dear. They are the pages of your story, and what has made your life worth living!

In your heart: We have many circles of people in our lives. My dear friend, Jonelle, referred to those closest to us as “kitchen friends.” Those are the folks you can invite to your inner most part of your home and heart where the mess is very much ever-present. It’s so important to have such people in your life. Your spouse, your family, a neighbor, even friends from high school or church. Keep them close and try to put in the time. These relationships are going to need more effort, but they are in your life as a gift, so truly treasure them.

2) Reflect the light.

In your home: Since Christmas lights are all put away, (sniff, sniff) try adding a few extra candles, lanterns and mirrors on your shelves. The flickering lights can warm us and give off a sense of coziness we crave. Pair with a gorgeous little mirror and you’ll send that beautiful light dancing across the room, all year ’round!

In your heart: “In the darkest days of the year, the light of a candle is a striking and powerful symbol of hope and good things to come. Light and darkness cannot exist in the same place at the same time, making the moment that light pierces the darkness both stirring and breathtaking. Every light in a dark place can dispel despair, illuminate hope and provide needed perspective of things as they really are.” – excerpt from https://www.deseret.com/opinion/2019/12/22/21029929/opinion-the-lights-of-christmas-bring-hope-to-a-darkened-world-george-bush

In a world full of heads down, be the reason someone looks up. Throw kindness like it’s confetti! Hold a door, smile more, surprise a stranger with a compliment, look someone you know straight in the eyes-and tell them that they are doing a good job. You’ll be amazed to see how it can warm a hungry, hurting soul.

3) Stay motivated and encouraged.

In your home: My husband and sister have a running joke that my house is a library- on the premise that there are things to read EVERYWHERE. This is 100% true. I even have coffee mugs that say “coffee”, just in case you forgot what you’re drinking. One night, my husband started sweetly saying things to me out of the blue about love and family- and I thought after 15 years of marriage he was finally speaking my love language. But when I focused on his glances and followed his eyes, I realized he was literally reading the signs around our living room. Well played, hubby. But really, to me- it’s more than the decor. I do love a good whitewashed farmhouse sign with the words “Blessed Mama” accented in gold foil. It’s so, so pretty! It also serves as a constant reminder of how even the yucky days-the ones when I can’t seem to get anything right- ( yesterday… last week… the whole month of December…) are still a gift from above. Bible verses, books, framed art- keep yourself inspired by all you see!

In your heart: According to Google- the top resolutions for 2023 were as follows:

Exercise more.
Lose weight.
Get organized.
Learn a new skill or hobby.
Live life to the fullest.

Raise your hand if you’ve attempted one these?

Raise your hand if you stopped one of these around Groundhog Day?

No judgement here! Let’s focus on the positive! What if, instead of expecting a head-to-toe overall, we work towards making small steps in the right direction? And a huge pat on the back when there is growth made? In lieu of the upcoming Martin Luther King Jr. day,

Celebrate the little things! Be the best bed maker, diaper changer, laundry folder, or trash-taker-outer the state of Virginia has ever seen. And then grab that momentum and keep on going…

4) Think happy thoughts.

In your home: Think of your favorite place to be- a store, a restaurant, a destination. What colors are you surrounded with? What textures? If you’re a flower person- I recommend having loads of plants and faux peonies on those shelves of yours. If you love traveling- have many pieces that reflect the world: little globes, maps, trinkets from places visited. These items make you smile when you see them, so don’t keep them tucked away. Put them on display!

In your heart: If it’s Yoga, painting, ax-throwing or binge watching Hallmark movies- create time for you to be in your “happy place.” You are filling your bucket and, therefore, preparing to fill others. I cannot help but think of the scene from Legally Blonde when Reese Witherspoon’s character, Elle Woods, sweetly states that, “Exercise creates endorphins and endorphins make people happy and happy people don’t just kill their husbands. They just don’t.” Maybe not biblically sound advice, but the theology behind these words might be worth holding on to…

5) Embrace the negative space- it can be a positive thing!

In your home: I have found, after staring at my newly ordered shelves while eating my breakfast, that the occasional blank space highlights the wonderful things I already have. Not to mention, leaving room for a new piece I might just find in the future. Ahhh hemmmm, shopping trip?

In your heart: Those of you who know me well probably just spit out your coffee reading about I am suggesting that you free up your life a little. So, to clarify, I am not claiming to be good at this- I am actually in recovery. From 42 years of being a “yes gal.” But I am working on this. Daily. I’ll never forget the time I received an email asking for a last minute volunteer from one of the girls’ teachers many years ago. I read the email and immediately thought, “I can TOTALLY do this…” Meanwhile, I should totally NOT do this. After approximately 8.2 seconds of thought, I was writing the reply to the teacher and my email made the ding noise again. I minimized my note and saw it was from my husband, who was working in the basement. I opened it to see the word “NO” typed in capital letters at the top of the teacher’s forwarded email. I forgot that I had added his name to the class list serve. Another solid point for the hubby. He KNEW I would respond with a quick and typically overzealous yes, and without any idea of what the cost was. And it always comes at a cost… So my advice for the new year? Learn from my mistakes and keep those free moments free. You might need them someday soon for something spectacular and unexpected.

My last New Year ‘s home and heart nugget is probably the most important. So I’ve saved it for the end.

Remember how IKEA has the warnings on all their shelves and dressers to be secured to the wall so that they won’t fall or collapse with all the weight? The truth can be said for our hearts, too. While we can’t possible predict what each day or the upcoming year will actually bring, I encourage you to anchor yourself with a firm foundation. What would happen if we didn’t rely seven days a week on our own strength and abilities, but rather stayed tethered to the steadfast love and resurrection power available to us each morning?

Remember that having an anchor doesn’t ensure smooth and perfect waters- for a boat or our hearts. In fact, the mere presence of one guarantees there will be serious rocking while the waves and world toss you back and forth. But rest in it’s purposeful promise, His promise- you’ll never be swept away…no matter how great the storm.

Balance in life doesn’t mean YOU have it all under control… quite the contrary. It means you have a secret weapon.

And my heart could use a little of that…

I pray as you enter this New Year, you feel more confident in your decorating skills and excited about what the future holds.

In 2023, surround yourself with those you love, reflect the light, stay motivated and encouraged, think happy thoughts, embrace the negative space, and stay anchored to the source. Who would have thought our hearts have so much in common with our bookcases? Here’s to a year of beautiful, bountiful balance in both!

Happy New Year, dear friends.

“Enough is Enough” plus a Valentine’s door wreath DIY

January 31, 2022 by Monica 3 Comments

June is in the new baby phase where we find ourselves constantly handing her new things to hold- which she initially marvels at and keeps her attention for approximately 13 seconds. Until she hurls said object across the room or hits herself in the head with it. We frantically scramble to put something else quickly in her little tiny hands before she throws a tantrum, which she then marvels at and loves for all of 13 seconds. Oh, babies.

She hasn’t yet developed “object permanence.” That’s a term I remember from child psychology- (smarty pants) where just because a baby can’t see the object, she doesn’t think it exists anymore.

Ooooo, you want to hear something funny? I think I am slightly guilty of this, too.

Burn.

Happy life, happy wife, things go away…cry, pout, insert new shiny object. Happy life, happy wife, things stop being happy, can’t quite reach…pout, cry, throw something across room.

Am I the only one?

I was reading in a morning devotion the other day- according to the Catechism- “…our thirst for another’s goods is immense, infinite, and never quenched. Thus it is written, “He who loves money never has money enough.”

If it’s not money- what is it? Fill in the blank with your vice/ goal/ desire.

For me – it’s books.

My mom asked me years and years ago, “When you get an agent, or once you have a book out there, then what? Will you be happy?” I, of course, answered a cheerful and naive “yes.”

But the reality is, the taste and joy of having published a book only made me want to hold another… and another. And there’s nothing wrong with writing – if I’m using God’s pen. And participating in His plan. But if I’m driving my own car, on a one way street to MY destination- then I’m not quite getting the gist. I’m asking God for his occasional advice, (on song choice and good eats to stop at) but not exactly asking him to take the wheel and navigate. If I’m never satisfied, fulfilled or happy until I have another book, well then…

A wanted animation....Edited — Elder Scrolls Online

We all remember the beloved tale by Shel Silverstein, The Giving Tree.

10 Things Shel Silverstein's The Giving Tree Taught Us (Besides Giving, That Is) 10 Things Shel Silverstein's The Giving Tree Taught Us (Besides Giving, That Is)

It’s a poetic play on what our human nature does once we seek out and taste happiness. It highlights and spells out how momentary happiness can be and how it also often times leaves us yearning something new to quench that feeling…

Fusenews: And the tree was moderately amused - A Fuse #8 Production

More lbs. shed, more things bought at Homegoods…

(The following excerpt is purely fictional. Any relation to myself, the writer, or my actual current living room is simply coincidental…)

I need a new lamp . … now I need a new painting to match the lamp. Now I need a new throw to match the painting to match the lamp … now I need more pillows to match the throw that matches the painting that matches the lamp . Now I need a new couch …. Possibly a new house? Holy heck, this whole thing started with a lamp! 😭
*Maybe my husband is right- lamps are the tools of the devil 👿 *

Or is it more fame? More job titles? More “likes”…

When will enough actually BE enough? Will there be a level achieved that sends my happy hands high in the air? Will there be a beautiful, behemoth, blissful moment – that will finally satisfy that deep, constant, unsettled hunger we have? I’m only talking from personal experience here, but I’m starting to realize by myself- I will never be enough. And get ready, the devil will capitalize on this epiphany and whisper, “That thing you just achieved… that thing you are holding…it’s not going to last. It’s not enough. YOU aren’t enough…”

And do you know what will slap the devil right in the face? To get off the wheel and yell back, “You’re right. I’m not big enough, strong enough, wise enough…”

“But do you know where you’re wrong?”

“I have Him.

And

That

Enough.“

When I saw this verse, it made me think of a beautiful testimony I heard back at the beginning of the pandemic. A woman from my church shared how, through the lack of yeast in all the markets during that particular unprecedented time, it caused her to see “daily bread” in a new light. And ever since I heard her speak, I have never thought of those words in The Lord’s Prayer the same either.

“…give us this day our daily bread…”

This day.

Not next week.

Not next month.

Not next year.

This day.

Our daily bread…

The graces, strength, wisdom, energy, patience, fortitude, love and faith.

” …He will bless you abundantly, and you will abound…”

It’s all we need.

It’s all we’ll ever need.

Hebrews 1:11

“Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen.“

This is where my job starts ( and a chance to really stick it to the devil)… seizing the opportunity to separate myself from the thoughts and actions of my sweet 6-month old baby June. Instead of throwing a tantrum, I need to exercise the muscle that is flexed when things get tough, trials come, and the journey seems long. When whatever shiny object I am temporarily occupying my time and happiness with seems to have suddenly disappeared or is slightly out of reach, I have to stop looking around. I must look up.

Object permanence… or in this case, a daily dose of faith-filled footsteps.

It is enough.

And I’ve decided that His enough is enough for me.

CRAFT TIME!

Friends Yay GIF - Friends Yay Excited - Discover & Share GIFs

Valentine’s door wreath DIY

Hello crafty friends! It’s been too long since I’ve added a tutorial to the blog posts- so here we are- step by step instructions to create this super fun Valentine’s door decor! *I want to thank the blogger who inspired this creation- Craftaholics Anonymous. I loved her wreath and took the idea and ran with it!

Materials: (all from my local Michaels)

foam wreath form – 2 inch X 15.6 inch
foam wreath form- 1.7 inch X 11.7 inch
variety of ribbons – I used black & white striped, lacy pink, and ended up going with a red tulle that I had stashed away from Christmas- the ones I had planned to use on the smaller wreath were not long enough! Oops!
large wooden plank
wooden letters 2 “X”, 2 “O”
last minute addition- *some greenery I had in my craft room*
scissors
hot glue

Step 1) I wrapped the larger wreath form in the black and white striped ribbon and hot glued the ends.

Step 2) I wrapped the smaller wreath form in the red tulle- bunching it as I wrapped to create a deep crimson color that sufficiently covered the green form. Secure ends with hot glue.

I love the texture!

Step 3) I hot glued greenery to the wooden plank for some dimension. This is not a must- but if you have anything fun laying around, try it!

Step 4) I hot glued the wooden letters to the greenery.

Step 5) I nestled the 2 wreath forms into each other and secured them with the pink lacy ribbon.

Step 6) I hot glued the wooden plank to the larger wreath form.

Voila! Hang and enjoy!

Simple Summer Front Door Swag

May 23, 2018 by Monica 4 Comments

Hello readers!

I am very excited to bring you this tutorial- for a bunch of reasons.

IT IS A GORGEOUS WREATH.
It is super simple and can be uniquely varied to suit your taste!
I love to teach.

So here we go!

Here is the wreath from Etsy that started it all.

And between Etsy and Pintrest- there are so many amazing ideas to gather for inspiration!

A college friend of mine tagged me on Facebook and asked for tips.

We went back and forth and then it hit me that I should go ahead and make this beautiful wreath and document the step by step.

This is honestly one of the easiest wreaths to re-create.

I promise!

Let’s begin :O)

Materials:

(All bought from my local Hobby Lobby.)

18 inch grapevine wreath
variety of florals ( greens/whites or any kind you like!) I used 6 stems
Floral wire
wired ribbon ( any kind) but for this, I used 2 1/2 inch & 1 1/2 inch black/white/gray buffalo check
wooden sign ( once again- sky’s the limit for words) for this project I chose a dark wooden “hi”
white paint & brush+
+optional

Step 1)

I white-washed the wooden letters to make sure they popped off the dark colors of the grapevine.

Step 2)

While the letters dried, I went ahead and cut the bottom 6 inches off the floral stems You don’t need ’em!

Step 3)

What I love about grapevine is its BUILT IN ability to hold your materials. For this step, I found a good section of the wreath with room to stuff, and simply tucked in the floral stems- one going up and one going down. And repeated.

Step 4)

Now… are you ready for the SUPER, DOOPER, SECRET way that I have made big bows?

It’s made from lots of little bows!

I know.

So, here it is.

I tie my first little bow while still being attached to the spool. This ensures that if I flub, which I do regularly, I am not wasting any ribbon, it can simply be untied.

Make 3 little bows from the 2 1/2 inch ribbon.

Take your first little bow and place it down, like on the FACE OF A CLOCK, at the 9 & 3 position.

Now take your second little bow and place it ON TOP of the first bow, in the 12 & 6 position.

Take your third little bow and place it ON TOP of the second bow, in the 8 & 2 position. Curl/ fluff the ribbon ends to fill any spaces.

Take your floral wire and secure all 3 little bows together.

I was feeling adventurous and grabbed a smaller gray buffalo check and followed the same steps creating a smaller bow to go ON TOP of the big bow. I think it’s cute.

Step 5)

Wire the ALL of the ribbon together, place in the center of all the floral stems and secure in the back of the wreath.

Step 6)

Attach your wooden sign. I got lucky with this sign from HL- it had two little “hooks” that I used to help secure it to the grapevine. I have not always been so lucky…

I love how it turned out! I hope you all try this for your Summer wreath and maybe even consider a similar Fall DIY wreath! Imagine the possibilities!

Take care!

And as always, I’d love to hear your feedback/comments.

Books, Books and more Books

March 2, 2018 by Monica Leave a Comment

Happy Birthday, Dr. Seuss!

Now, I wouldn’t be true to my Kindergarten-ness or my crafty self if I didn’t create something in honor of Read Across America Day!

A few weeks ago, I was watching Home Town on HGTV and Erin was describing the newly remodeled kitchen to the owner and she just quickly mentioned, ” And here is a little knife block made from old cookbooks…” And that was it! I knew my next DIY would have to involve books.

Now fast forward to today…Friday March 2…Dr. Seuss’ Birthday and Read Across America Day.

I scoured my house for old cookbooks…

turns out I don’t have any….

Then I scoured for old fiction books…

turns out I only read KID’S BOOKS :O)…

So- I used what I had.

And being the sentimental one that I am, I realized I have kept all the girls’ old board books- from when my oldest was a baby.

I thought no better way to honor these treasures and Dr. Seuss, than to re-purpose them.

Without further ado- I give you the (CHILDREN’S) BOOK KNIFE BLOCK!

Step 1: find books- ANY books- that are relatively the same size

Step 2: glue back cover of one book to front cover of the next with a hot glue gun

Step 3: repeat until all books are glued together

Step 4: tie ribbon around the books secure front and back covers

Step 5: add your knives!

Enjoy!

*Keep on reading & creating!*

DIY EAS-Y Valentine’s burlap wreath

January 24, 2018 by Monica 1 Comment

Hello crafting friends!

I have been asked if I had some ideas for Valentine’s front door wreaths. I’m always on the hunt for new ideas, especially ones I can tweak a little. I stumbled onto this burlap wreath- from craftaholicsanonymous.net ( whom I had the pleasure of meeting in person on my trip out to CA with Michael’s). What I loved about it was the SIMPLE beauty. Valentines can be gaudy, glittery, and honestly- WAY too much pale pink for my taste… so I was thrilled with this find. I made a few slight tweaks, but mainly followed her directions. Here we go~!

DIY EAS-Y Valentine’s burlap wreath

Materials:

*burlap – @ 12 yards ( either bought at a fabric store by the yard, or in rolls) – any pattern, design you’d like

*an old wire coat hanger

*scissors

*ribbon

Can you GET any easier than that?? :O)

Okay- here are the steps!

Step 1-Take your wire hanger and untwist it. Then bend into a “heart” shape. No perfection here! Do not twist ends together yet- you will need an open end to start threading the burlap:)

Step 2-Cut your burlap ( if it’s in a big sheet) into strips about 2-3 inches wide.

If you have burlap on a spool already, you can skip this step!!

Step 3- Take your open end of the heart shape, and begin to thread the burlap onto the wire – in the middle. Continue threading about every 3 inches or so- once again- eyeball it- no need to measure- it will look great, I promise:O)

This is how it starts to look…

Step 4- Keep THREADING!! After threading 1 of my burlap strips, this is how it looks:O) Like ribbon candy!

After 2 strips of burlap!

After 3 strips…

Just keep swimming!!!! I mean… threading!!!

Almost done!

Step 5- Re-twist the ends together. Push burlap close together/fluff or however you want it to look!

Step 6- Add your choice of ribbon to the center- I wrapped it around the “twisted” part of the heart.

Hang & smile!

I hope you enjoyed this tutorial and can create your own super EAS-Y DIY Valentine’s burlap wreath!

As always, I’d love to hear from you!

Cheers and happy making!

Dear Daughters

January 17, 2018 by Monica 6 Comments

Dear Daughters,
I’m writing because your Momma is a writer. It’s my safe place. When I stumble and mumble while talking, I run to my writing. And that’s okay.
No one is perfect. I’m far from it.
But I’ll get to that.

I’m writing to tell you how much I love you. Insane love.
And there will be times you might not remember that.
So I’m writing it down for you.
So it’s here.
For you to read.
Forever.

My wish for you is hope, joy, and lots of love.

I hope you wake up each day more thankful than the day before.

I pray you have joy.
So much joy, it overflows- to everyone and everything around you.
The kind of joy that comes with watching a simple sunset.
Throw it like confetti.
The world needs more bucket fillers.

I pray you leap.
Not because someone told you to or called you “chicken” but because the Spirit deep inside of you is whispering “You can. You must. And I am here, do not be afraid.”

Be a light.
There is so much darkness- hold fast to what is right, honorable and true- and you will shine.

Smile more.
Not because I’m telling you to, but because you can’t NOT smile.
You will change lives. I promise.

You don’t have to do it all.
I have tried. And failed miserably.
The words “I can’t” or “ Please help me” are not signs of weakness.
They show strength and self-awareness. There are helpers everywhere.
Let people help you.
Don’t let your pride run your life.

Back to failing. You will. Lots of times.
Maybe at something small.
Maybe at something big.
But everyone falls flat at some point.
You think I’m lying? Ask someone.
If they say no, they’re lying.
It is how many times you get back UP that will determine your successes.
Always. Get. Back. Up.

Stand up for what you believe.

But be respectful.

Don’t be a “meh.”

There are too many folks who blow where the wind blows them.

Stand tall- and be brave. Brave is beautiful.

And that’s another thing. Don’t ever, EVER let anyone or anything tell you that you aren’t beautiful. You are.
And wonderful.
And there’s no one like you. Not now, not ever. You are spectacularly unique.

Don’t compare. It’s hard. I do it, too. But I’m working on it.
You won’t always be First. You won’t always win.
And that’s okay. Don’t let it bother you. Celebrate them.
Focus on your strengths.
Don’t think you have any? Look deeper.
Drive in your own lane. It’s less congested.

Please love. Love those close, and work at loving those far away.
Guard your own heart.
Not with an impenetrable castle wall, but with an unwavering confidence that its contents are worth something.
YOU are worth something. Don’t settle. Your happily ever after is out there.
You might just have to climb a few castle walls yourself…

Lastly, don’t do any of this because I said so. You’ll regret it. You’ll regret me.
Do these things because you believe in them.
And you know that this world needs you. And you want to make it a better place.
It goes by in a blink. It’s cliche, but true.
So live it. REALLY live it.
Eat the cake, kiss goodnight, take the chance, quiet your heart and LEAP.
I can’t wait to see what happens when you do. ❤️

How To Make A Floral Ballerina Canvas

Materials:

*Canvas ( any size) but I used a 12″x16″ from a bundle set bought from Michael’s

*tempra paints ( any colors) but I used pale pink, pale purple and aqua

*paint brushes/sponge brushes

*craft glue

*scissors

*ballerina sillouettes – you can click on here to view some images https://www.google.com/search?q=ballerina+silhouette&source=lnms&tbm=isch&sa=X&ved=0ahUKEwjoiODC4t3YAhWDu1MKHfPqCoIQ_AUICigB&biw=1707&bih=796

*scrapbook paper

Step 1:

Pick your paint colors, can be one or a bunch!

*I started with the purple, then overlapped a little pink, then overlapped a little aqua.

Paint your canvas- allow to dry.

Step 2: While your canvas is drying, you can work on your paper flowers!

a) Cut your scrapbook paper into squares. The smaller the square, the smaller your paper flower will be. A larger square= larger flower. ( Mind blowing isn’t it! )

b) Cut the corners off of your square, creating a circle-ish shape. No perfection here!

c) Starting on the outside edge, cut a “coil” into the circle shape. Finishing with a mini circle-ish shape at the end*

*this secures and holds your flower together

d) Starting on the outside edge, begin to curl the paper. If your paper is 1-sided, you will want the printed side curling IN.

e) Continue curling until you get close to your end little circle shape.

f) Put a dab of glue on that circle at the end.

g) If you want a TIGHT flower, push coiled up paper firmly onto the circle shape with glue- HOLD.

If you want a LOOSE flower, gently let go of the coiled up paper until you like the look, and then press firmly on the circle shape with glue- HOLD.

Step 3) Make MORE paper flowers!! :o)

Step 4) Pick your ballerina image- so many choices! I copied and pasted a few onto a WORD doc. & played with the sizing. I eliminated the margins, and enlarged each one to a FULL page image. I printed the whole doc. & then decided which one I liked best.

Step 5) (Now- my mistake- I glued the paper flowers onto the ballerina image before I cut her out. That was hard.)

So-I recommend CUTTING out your ballerina image FIRST…

Step 6) THEN gluing your image down to your canvas…( you could ModPodge if you want a shiny finish)

Step 7) and FINALLY arranging*/ gluing flowers to the ballerina image.

*I always encourage arranging before gluing:o)

And here it is! I love it. Honestly in love. It will always remind me of this wonderful season my girls are in.

I’d LOVE to see any of your creations!

Countdown to Halloween: a few easy crafts

October 30, 2017 by Monica Leave a Comment

Hi all!

How is it only two more days ’till the spooky holiday is upon us?

I was in the making mood last week, and was thinking of some quick, easy and CHEAP things I could do with the girls to deck out the house ( even more).

Below are the directions for these three quick crafts:

First- The Cupcake Liner Halloween Tree ( how stinkin’ cute??)

Supplies: Cardstock ( does not need to be Halloween-y), cupcake liners- how ever many patterns you’d like, scissors and tape

Step 1: Take your cardstock and make a cone out of it. Trim the bottom to the desired size, and to make sure it sits flat.

Step 2: Take cupcake liners and cut out the centers.

Step 3: Wrap the liner around the base of the tree- you will need more than one liner for the bottom half of the tree. Secure with tape.

Step 4: Continue wrapping liners around the tree, in any pattern you’d like. As you get closer to the top, you can use the left overs from any liners you have already cut. The tippy top only uses a teensy piece :O)

Voila! Enjoy! I would have made a ton more if I had any more liners. I’m totally planning to make a few different ones with the adorable Christmas liners in all the stores!

Next craft: Big SPOOKY Eyes for your Bushes/Trees

Materials: Buckets or pumpkins from the Dollar Store, white craft paint, red PERMANENT marker, craft foam, glue, scissors

Step 1: Paint the bottom of the buckets with the white craft paint. ( We tried to conserve our white paint, and only painted the bottom and a little of the sides. If you have plenty of paint, you can certainly paint the whole bucket.) Let dry.

Step 2: Cut out 2 different sized circles with the green foam ( bigger) and black foam ( smaller). Glue onto the bottom of the bucket.

Step 3: Using a PERMANENT red marker ( our mistake… Autumn’s smelly red marker came right off in last night’s rain) make squiggly eye ” viens” stretching from the foam on down.

Nestle into your bushes and enjoy your new SPOOKY decor.

*I’m planning to put Dollar Store tap lights inside to help them GLOW on Halloween night*

Last craft: White Craft Pumpkin “Trick or Treat” Tower

Materials: Dollar Store craft pumpkins (3), white craft paint, paint brushes, wooden skewers, alphabet stickers, gold glitter, glue, green paper grass, halloween-y ribbon

Step 1: Stick the wooden skewers into the center of each craft pumpkin, so you won’t have white hands! Paint each pumpkin with the white craft glue. *The girls and I had to do a few coats to cover the orange all the way.*

Step 2: Using your alphabet stickers, spell out TRICK OR TREAT on your dry white pumpkins.

Step 3: ( Mattie LOOVED this part.) Take your cleaned up paint brush and dip it into a bowl of glue. Make ” polka dots” with the glue. Then shake the gold glue over the pumpkin. There is no real right way to do this. That’s why it’s great to let the kiddies help with this! :O) Just try not to cover the words.

Step 4: Take out the skewers from each pumpkin. Spread the green paper grass down below and between each pumpkin, and line up your tower. Use one long skewer and stick it all the way down into the three pumpkins to secure them. Finish with a bow. * I sprayed the whole thing with spray clear coat to help keep everything in place.*

Enjoy!

I’d love to hear your feedback and see your photos!

Thanks for crafting with me!

Happy Halloween!!!!

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