art studio

My family has always had a passion for art. Raised by an architect father and a mother who loved painting, my sisters and I were always sketching. While my sisters were art majors, I wasn't allowed that option, since they had struggled to find jobs. After college, my work has mainly involved pr and graphic design. But I would love an art studio of my own! Who wouldn't love a private place to paint, sketch and dream?

art studio on Polyvore

Happy Mardi Gras!

One of the longest parties in the world, Mardi Gras has already started along the Gulf Coast. Originally founded in Mobile, Ala., thousands of locals and tourists have the largest celebrations in Mobile and New Orleans. From parties to parades, there's something for everyone during Mardi Gras!

How to make a Mardi Gras Wreath - Mardi Gras Outlet

Vintage-look fleur de lis from A Gilded Life

Recipe for Mini King Cakes from Eclectic Recipes

How to make Mardi Gras costumes from Love To Know

Recipe for Mardi Gras cookies from Nola Mommy

Creatively decorated Moon Pies on flickr

Knights of Revelry Parade on Mardi Gras Day in Mobile

Masked Kitty on flickr

Happy & Healthy

On most days, being "happy and healthy" is really easy, but on other days it takes so much work. In my own life, I've struggled with stress and anxiety many times. Who hasn't? Many triggers can affect my mood... work, children, lack of sleep, the weather, etc.  So how can I shake off the stress?

Happy Mood Board on Polyvore

Here are a few tips from Helpguide.org:

* Aim for 8 hours of sleep per night. Turn off the television, put down the computer, close the book.

* Get sunlight every day. Aim for at least 15 minutes.

* Exercise. Your mood can lighten whether you get an hour-long workout or a walk around the block.

* Keep stress in check. Figure out what your stressors are. They can include work overload, poor relationships, long "to do" lists, health problems, etc. Then create a plan to minimize or avoid them altogether.

* Practice relaxation techniques. In my own case, I try to start the day with some quiet prayer and meditation, reading a page from the daily devotional "Jesus Calling" and doing some yoga. Some mornings, I don't have time for any of these things. Those are the days when I can feel a negative change in my mood.

* Care for a pet. In addition to strong relationships with friends and family, the love from a pet can instantly boost my mood. Our Jack Russell, Lizzie, and Yorkie, Ella, always put me in a good mood. 

Another great idea is to develop a "wellness toolbox"! Possible mood boosters include:

* Spend time in nature

* Read a good book

* Watch a funny television show or movie

* Soak in a long, warm bath

* Start your day with a short "to do" list

* Talk to friends or family "face to face"

* Listen to music

* Do something spontaneous! -- Visit a museum! Go to the zoo! Get a drink at Starbucks!

So remember Voltaire's famous quote, "The most important decision you make is to be in a good mood." And, of course, PRAY! :)

Halloween Candy Leftovers?

Besides devouring it, what should you do with extra Halloween candy? 

Halloween Candy Leftovers by lgb321 featuring gift packs

Freeze it! Frozen chocolate is great, plus you'll eat it slower. Divide it! Put a few candies in ziploc bags, then slowly give it out as small treats or in lunch bags. Re-gift it! Children and adults would love receiving candy and a gift card as birthday gifts. Bake it! Use melted chocolate in cupcakes and crush hard candies to use as sprinkles. Donate it! Many drugstores accept leftover candy to donate later. Or you can bag it all up and take to homeless shelters, soup kitchens, hospitals, or nursing homes. (And, of course, always throw away any home baked goodies or candy in opened wrappers.) It'll take some willpower, but these ideas should help save a few calories as we go into the holiday season!