Contests and Resolutions

Minted has a  fabric design challenge going on.  I've submitted two designs, and so if you already have a minted account you should go and vote for my designs by clicking on the heart (or you can create an account, though I know that can be hassle).  If I am one of the winners, my designs will be available for purchase on fabric.  (click on the image to be able to vote for it on minted)

The other design contest I mentioned awhile back ends this week, so hopefully I have some good news about that soon.

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It's the new year and I do have some resolutions.  I'm sharing them with you so that I actually stick to them!  The first one is inspired by my mom, because she is really good at it---When I think something nice about someone, I am going to say it (when it's appropriate).  That could be as simple as complimenting a strangers choice of footwear (I like those boots) or telling a friend how much they mean to me.  The last one will be harder for me I think.. 

Another resolution is to  eat cleaner--as in less processed, sugary, starchy foods.  When we got back from our home Christmas visit, we did a little detox diet for a few days--no sugar, alcohol, gluten, and only minimally processed foods (i.e. avoiding things that come out of a box).  So we made a lot of smoothies (this one has become a new favorite dessert), ate a lot of whole foods (aka fresh fruits and veggies), things like that.  Now I'm not going to totally cut out processed, sugary stuff, but at least not keep a lot of it in the house.   For instance, I used to always turn to chips for a quick snack, now I reach for nuts/fruit.  I used to have toast with Nutella for breakfast, now I'm enjoying granola with yogurt and honey (I made the yogurt in my crock pot!).  Pinterest has been a big help :)

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I leave you with this: one of the prints Ryan gave me for Christmas.  We have the tradition of getting each other art prints for Christmas, to grow our art collection (originals are too expensive, so signed prints are a good alternative). 

"The Stars Were Hers" by Amanda Blake