My friends, I have decided to let you in on a little secret.

Remember in my recent posts about my goals for the year and this month? I alluded to a “big, secret project” and felt like a silly traitor for not having the cajones to share what that project is. But I’m letting the butterflies in my stomach fly free today, because I’m just TOO excited about this not to let you in on it. My big, bad secret (that is probably not even that exciting to you, but I’m super giddy about) is that I’m working on a line of prints and paper goods! This has been a goal of mine for YEARS and I have always been infatuated with the way simple pieces of paper can add so much to our lives. I have carefully selected prints all over my walls, a box of thoughtful greeting cards in my closet, and even notepads on my desk — all with special, unique functions that each add their own flair and creative juju to my life. Paper goods can obviously be compared to nothing less than voodoo magic.

I’ve put this goal off for so long because I really had no idea what I’d even make and doubted my skills as a designer. Now that I’ve been doing blog, web, and logo designs for several months, I feel like I’m coming into more of “my style” and understanding more and more how to bring it to life in way that other people will love, too. Anyways, all of the research and work that I’ve been putting into this new shop (which will hopefully be released some time in February!!), has led me to discover so many other incredible shops and designers elsewhere on the web — especially on Etsy. I’m blown away with how creative and inventive people are! Admittedly, I never really paid much attention to Etsy before, always assuming I could find similar things for cheaper prices at bigger chain stores. But I feel like a switch has been flicked inside me, because I have this crazy urge to support others who are making their dreams happen. I also love the personal touch that Etsy sellers have — many of them write handwritten thank you notes or have cute, well-thought-out packaging. It kind of makes me feel like I’m getting a package from a friend rather than a store — make sense?

But before I gush too much about my new addiction healthy obsession,  I want to share some things that I L-O-V-E and that really define my style. I hardly ever talk about my style on this blog, when in reality, personal style and beautiful design are things I really value. Every now and then, I’m excited to share more and more of my style through posts like this one. And eventually, I can’t wait to share the little shop I’m working on! 🙂 w00t w00t! Have a wonderful weekend everyone!

1. Ink’d Pink by SketchInk // 2. Black and White Hearts Ceramic Bowl by RossLab

3. Zip Tote by bookhouathome // 4. Love Bukowski Print by Paper Felt Shop

5. Modern Decorate Box by Nate Berkus for Target // 6. Circle Picture Frame by Kate Spade Saturday

7. Räsymatto mug by Marimekko

Zia of Bits of Days

Zia is a super sweet world traveler who writes a funny, helpful, and travel-centric blog called Bits of Days. Zia was born in Indonesia, but currently lives in Germany and even spent time in the US. Basically, she’s got this whole global citizen thing on lock. If you’re new to her blog, I recommend starting here. Or better yet, start HERE (because who doesn’t love some good quirks?). Like I mentioned, Zia knows how to travel and has been in a variety of cultures. She has all kinds of travel posts, ranging from how to get cheaper international flights to how she was culture shocked after visiting the US (interesting!!). She also has fun posts about her adventures, like this one to Milan, Italy. And if you’re just looking for a laugh (or maybe a cry? I can’t decide), then check out this one about internship hunting. Ouch. Zia’s got a lot to offer! Go say hi. 🙂

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