Happy (Stress-Free) Monday!

Hello friends! It's the beginning of the week, but don't let that get you down. Here is a cute print by Laura George to help keep you stress-free!

So simple!

♥ Shannon

Favorite Fashion Bloggers

These are my top three favorite fashion bloggers right now. I love every outfit they wear.

Coury from Fancy Treehouse dazzles me all the time. Her style is so free-spirited. Bonus, she puts her outfits into an online shop so you can take a few home yourself!

Keiko from Keiko Lynn just knows how to put an outfit together. Even her "messy hair" looks stunning! Also, check out her scarf tutorial. Perfection!

And then there is Emily from Cupcakes and Cashmere. Oh Emily. Everything she wears looks carefree and elegant at the same time.

::covet covet::

♥ Shannon

What I Wore

I just love comfortable sundresses in the summer. Know what I mean?

Outfit details: Dress: Target; Shirt/Bracelet: Forever21; Shoes: Old Navy; Necklace: Handmade by Jess

So I haven't bought new clothes in a few months. I'm trying a new only-buy-second-hand thing. The trouble is, I've never been a skilled thrifter. My sister has the gift. I've never had it. But don't worry--I'm learning. In the meantime, I've been having fun re-mixing my wardrobe.

♥ Shannon

I baked a cake!

I'm not sure if it's glorious yet, but it sure is tasty, so I'm going to let it count for my 27-before-27!

I'm also proud to say that it is vegan. I veganized the Trader Joe's cake & baking mix by substituting vanilla soy yogurt for eggs and Earth Balance for butter. So much better this way!

I also learned that not all cake pans are created equal. The top layer came out all crumbly because the pan just wasn't up to par. Oh, and I refrigerated the frosting while the cake was baking...not a great decision. I had to soften it with some hot water, and I over-compensated and then the frosting was a bit too soft.

But I'm learning!

♥ Shannon

Have a lovely 4th of July!

Whether you're an American or not, make today a lovely one! Mute the traditional colors of red, white, & blue--and play with coral, cream, & ice!

Inspiration from:
1. Coral Dress from Modcloth
2. Eyelet Dress from Modcloth
3. Royal Icing Dress from Modcloth
4. Red Wedges from Ruche
5. Oxford Heels from Ruche
6. 3-in-1 Tote from Ruche
7. Strawberry Shortcake Popsicles

Fun!

♥ Shannon

Inspiration Boards

I do believe it is time for me to start making some inspiration boards. The trouble is that I've never made one. Have you?

This one is from Style Me Pretty, but the tool seemed a little complicated.

Pinterest has boards, but can they be compiled into Inspiration Boards?

I admit it! I'm quite unlearned about these lovely things! Help!

♥ Shannon

New Year's Resolutions

Hi loves, did you know that it's already July? What?!

With 2011 half over, I am reminded of the promises I made to myself in January. Specifically, I had five things:

1. Write a novel. So far, I have three novels outlined, and one proposal started. I need to focus my efforts. Here is some inspiration for myself, courtesy of Kathy:

2. Open an etsy shoppe. I need a little more refinement here, too. I've begun to narrow down my ideas for it, but the move in August will uproot my ability to ship items for awhile. If only I could go to the Etsy Summit...

3. Do the splits. Right now, I look sort of like this fellow, but I'm working on it, I'm working on it.

4. Obtain Yoga Teacher certification. I am happy to say that I am over half-way there. My 11-month course will conclude in November, so I am right on track! (How lovely is this image from Christa Meola?)

5. Cook More. I am also pleased to say that I have been cooking most of my meals, like this delicious curry dish. Committing fully to a vegan lifestyle made cooking for myself more of a necessity, but the change in my body and attitude are palpable. I'm so grateful.

So that is where I'm at. How about you?

♥ Shannon