New Year Resolutions

2013 has been my most eventful year to date. So many things have happened!! It has been a year of goal setting, dream chasing, faith building, healing, forgiveness, and so much more. Although those things were often incredibly challenging, I am so grateful.

 I was thinking today about the story God gives us to tell. My story this year has contained a lot wonderful things that I've shared with you, but also a lot of hurt and pain that I have (for the most part) kept quiet. As I remember the difficult moments, I am remembering my state of surrender. At times it felt like failure, like I was giving up, but It happens to be nothing of the sort. My open, worn and broken heart has transformed and is more ready for God's love than it has ever been before. How amazing is it that God can turn the ugliest moments and the ugliest cries into beautiful moments of love, grace and redemption?! I am so blown away by that. I have "believed" in God all my life, but have never experienced this level of his love.  

This has changed my views on the "New Years resolution" completely. Usually I am listing off the typical : lose weight, save more money, eat better... Blah blah. Well in theory those are great goals to have and are positive and achievable. But this year is going to be about my core.  

Ever heard of KISS? Keep It Simple Stupid. 

This year I focus on two words. So my words for 2014 are LESS and MORE. 

Less stress, More prayer.

Less control, More faith.

Less stuff, More meaning.

Less greed, More thanks.

Less negativity, more love. 

... To name a few. 

What words will you focus on in 2014? What can I pray for you as you begin the new year?

Gift Wrapping

Let's get gifting, y'all! My favorite time of year is upon us! Besides all the holiday cheer, mass amounts of Starbucks, and twinkly lights, I LOVE the holidays because this season is the perfect excuse to let my love language go wild! I love gifts and gifting! Probably to the point that I find any excuse to buy unnecessary things for people. You know, like when your that special person in your life buys you random things at yard sales because there is a smidgen of a chance you may want it or be able to use it some day. 

Truth be told, that's never really happened to me...except when my mother-in-law bought us a wedding gift at a yard sale, refinished it, and gave it to us last year for Christmas. Y'all it ended up being the epitome of my wine rack dreams. Like World Market, Pier One, rustic glory. She did an amazing job. 

But anyway, you get the point. This year I am challenging my self with less. Less stuff, more love. Less junk, more meaning. So along with that mantra, I also want it to capitalize on something else I am passionate about. 

Pretty packaging!! 

I will say that bursting open a present, wrapped in cheap paper with nothing but a sticky bow, has its perks. It's fun, messy, and swimming in the sea of torn paper always seems to bring so much joy! But I want to give my gift wrap just a little extra love and attention this year. 

I came across these ideas to spruce up you gifts by using all sorts of fun things around you house! So let's take a look-y shall we?

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I love the idea of just adding a touch of greenery to each of your gifts. It's free, pretty, and can be thrown away with out cringing because you spent moo-lah on it. We have some really pretty bushes outside our house that would look so lovely on our gifts! I am excited to use this idea.

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How fun is this!? Using a photo as a gift tag is genius! You could use a holiday themed photo, or maybe its a snap shot of you and the friend receiving the gift! Endless possibilities. 

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Ok, cupcakes are my favorite. Any time I see cute cupcake liners I always snatch them because we all need cute cupcakes in our life! I love that this idea uses cupcake liners and cute a circle out of fun paper, drew an initial, and added some side ribbons. I love tagging presents with initials. Winning Idea!

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There is a soft spot in my heart for plaid and flannel, and this bow is such a cute addition to a gift! I know I have a ton of loose fabric from leftover projects, but even if you don't, what about an old t-shirt you don't wear anymore? 

What are some ways you plan to dress up your gifts this year?? I would love to see! Tag us on Instagram and hashtag #HBPGifts so we can see!

Well, hello there.

It's Friday. Finally. Can I get an amen?! 

I don't have a High Five for Friday post this week, but I do have a few pictures that are certainly going to make your eyes happy. 

There is something so sweet about bright whites, pretty paper, fresh blooms, and gals getting along that makes me wanna do a heel click. I am off to spend a weekend getaway with my hunky husband and some great friends. 

On that note... Enjoy. 

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Monday Mantra

Via Hazel Berry Paper

Whatever is a struggle to get through today, lets just say a prayer of grace. 

The type of grace to refines us, and the strength to let it.

Be fierce today! Happy Monday!

Color Crush // Olive

1 // 2 // 3 // 4 // 5 // 6

This color is gorgeous right!? So rich and yummy. Enjoy :)

 

Happy hump day! 

High Five for Friday!

High Five for Friday!!

1. I spy something new in Hazel Berry Paper land! Go see! And then Go read about it! 

Via

2. My pretty floral mini-notepad was featured on Everything Emily Blog's Gift Guide! Go check out all the lovely gifts for mama's out there.

3. This week was my Momma's birthday!! We do multiple celebrations usually, and this one happened to be the best yet, in my opinion! Plus any family dinner full of love, laughter, and a few Duck Dynasty jokes is one for the books!! Happy birthday week Momma!

4. Gifts are my love language, and so the fact that it is turning into gift giving season..... My heart is so full!! And by the fire?! Stop. It. 

5. Christmas is 39 days away!!!!!

Link up with H54F here.

Habits // New Products!

Have you ever read the 'Encouragement for Today' posts on crosswalk.com? 

I frequent on these daily devos. They are quick, meaningful and often so dead-on and relatable with my life in that moment. They are a great mid-day pick-me-up too!!

So about a month ago, I read this devo by Nicki Koziarz  titled "Habits of a woman who doesn't give up." It touched my heart in so many ways. It made me feel so grateful for the positive examples people have set for me, and even gave me a little self confidence boost, that even when I am tired, burnt out, and feel like I have nothing left to give, I can still do it. Giving up is one of those things that crosses my mind daily, but I just can't seem to do it. God's grace saves me every time! 

Each point is so encouraging in its own way. So, I have designed a collection of Art Prints inspired by the 5 points in this message.  The points are as follows..

"Here are five habits I've discovered which characterize a woman who doesn't give up:

1. She gets up each morning and follows through with her commitments, despite how she feels.

2. She approaches the Word of God with reverence.

3. She longs for the grace of refinement rather than the grace of relief.

4. She chooses to invest in the world with joy.

5. She has a spirit of unbreakable determination.

What about you? What has God called you to do? Start by adopting one habit today and commit your work to the Lord.

Lord, thank You for filling me with purpose, faith and determination. Help me continue to do the work You've given me. Amen." (by Nicki Koziarz)

Read the full devo here. 

So that was a super long introduction, BUT totally necessary because Nicki's post inspired these prints that I am OH SO PROUD to show you! So without further ado…

Hazel Berry Paper

1 // 2 // 3 // 4 // 5

Do you need a little encouragement in your daily routine? What is your favorite phrase or verse that motivates you? Which print do you relate with the most? I would love to hear it! 

High Five for Friday & FLASH SALE!!!

Image via Everyday Bay Blog

1. Did you all enter the Everyday bay blog giveaway?? If you have then I am virtually high giving you right now. If you haven't then go here and get on it! Giveaway ends on Monday, the 11th! So hurry while you still can!!

2. Yesterday I had my follow up call with Amber Housley! She's such a peach! I loved getting to meet her and our conversation ended on such a good note. I hope to keep in touch! 

3. TODAY the first Gift Guide Everything Emily is launching! 

I LOVE gift guides. I am always putting too much energy into finding the right gift for people, when really they usually love and appreciate any gift at all. Well usually ha! 

So to have some great ideas complied and placed infront of me on a silver platter that is Emily's blog, I'll take it! Check it out! She will be categorizing them by women, men and kids! So check back as the holidays are getting closer. You might even find something cuties from Hazel Berry Paper on there :) 

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4. Ok, y'all. Let's just put this into perspective. I don't win anything. Like ever. 

(Ok, maybe thats a small lie. One time at a Bridal Show I won $50 dollars in a drawing. Which is crazy, but I loved it.)

So when I got tagged in a tweet that had my name and winner in the same sentence, I almost fell over. Katie, the author of An Inspired Life book, was so sweet and sent it to me right away! Thanks, Katie!  Can't wait to start it! 

5. I'm gonna encourage you sweet things to pop on over to my etsy shop because there is something BIG happening. FLASH SALE ANYONE!??!?

FLASH SALE for ALL ART PRINTS // HAZEL BERRY PAPER

 Starts FRIDAY-MONDAY at Midnight!
All flash sale orders will ship up to 48 hours after the sale is over. Use code: NOVFLASHSALE at checkout.50% off
This brings them as low as 6.50 + tax & shipping. I no lie. This DOES include all art prints currently in the shop (including the ones with personalization!).This DOESN'T include custom orders.

Ready, Set, GO! 

Link up with H54F here.

Monday Mantra

Art Print via Hazel Berry Paper

Somedays we need to be reminded of this. When we wake up in the morning, God has already given us everything we need to be the best version of ourselves. He has equipped us to achieve our dreams, big or small. It is all up to us on what we decide to do with it. If you are anything like me, you are thinking "No pressure! Ha!" But really, pressure is just self doubt. 

Doubt that I can do this. Doubt that I am enough. Doubt that I am doing the right thing. 

The bad in this world has trained us into thinking that we need the doubt. That its humbling, or even healthy. 

(game show buzzer) WRONG!

God intends for all doubt to be erased once we dwell on his hope, our faith and his grace! So as I channel my inner hot air balloon, today I am going to do something that sets my heart on fire. Something that lifts me and carries me around so weightlessly in love and peace, and lands me safely into a place where God has already prepared for me to be.  

What will you do today that takes you to your promise land?

Happy Monday!

Giveaway on Everyday Bay

Hi Y'all! So something exciting is happening today, and I promise you are gonna want to be apart of it! 

Everyday Bay blog is having a giveaway of some adorable products from three other shops, and you guessed it Hazel Berry Paper! I am so thrilled to be apart of it. 

The theme of all of the products is "OH DEER". 

Jerika, from Everyday Bay, asked if I would design a print specifically for this giveaway, and of course I said YES! I love coming up with new prints! But I ran into a problem. You see, I am a very indicisive person, so I designed two. So that means, whoever wins the giveaway gets a choice between the two art prints, to better fit your style or nursery! Head on over to Everyday Bay blog to enter!

Can't wait to send the winner their goodies!

If you enter this giveaway and do not win, you can still get your hands on those Art Prints! 

High Five for Friday

So, yes. I missed a few weeks of high five for friday. Guilty. 

Now on to this weeks lovely moments.

1. My favorite moment in the inspired session with Amber Housely was her honest words when she said, " Most people say 'work smarter, not harder' , but I try to tell people it's more about working smarter AND harder." Im going to let that awesome truth sink in. Full post about my Amber Housley Experience can be read about here :).

2. A few weekends ago Hubby and I went to Oktoberfest! It was so fun to hang out with some friends, enjoy some local brews and listen to good music. Mike Posner graced the Hits 96 stage and He really impressed me!! He was extremely entertaining, and I still can't get over how much he looks like Lance Bass.... anyone else getting that vibe??

3. October, y'all. Sweet mercy.

4. Last Friday we had my memaw-in-law, other family over for some dinner and dominos. Memaw means business. Don't let her fool you, she is total angel, but when it comes to dominos, she's out for blood! We had an awesome time together, and the fact I got to love on my baby niece a little extra, kinda made my life grander. Recently, I really felt a pull to be closer with family. And not just blood family but all meaningful relationships in general. This month, I look forward to many game nights, family dinners, and making new memories and traditions.

5. HALLOWEEN in our first house/neighborhood was a success! Sitting on the porch with my hubby made the night. It's the little things. :) Plus having our cousins stop by last on was a very special treat! OH, did I mention my sweet niece was dressed as a mermaid! I mean COME ON y'all. She's just too much love in such a small little human! 

This week has been pretty lovely. Hope yours was the same!

Happy Friday!

Link up with H54F here.

REAL TALK: The Amber Housley Experience

Image via Amber Housley

I think the title of this post is totally appropriate. Two weeks ago,  I had the privilege to get a tiny peek into the Amber's Business brain and I must say how energized and motivated I was to take action after meeting her. I am so glad I was able to participate in the 'inspired session'. She gave me such great advice and most of all was just such a delight to speak with. Having someone 'get' my goals, and then give me such awesome reassurance and tools to assist my hard work, was so inspiring and a true kick in the rear. Anyone who is on the fence about if these types of things is worth it.. the money, the time, the advice.... I have one piece of advice for you. 

Jump. 

Just do it. It so worth it, and even though my to do lost grew, I felt as if I were growing along side of it.  

And more importantly, If you stumble, God is there to catch our fall and remind us that he is right there the whole way. 

In the
weeks since, I have really soaked up all I've learned. I really evaluated my true passion, my goals, and if I really want what I think I want. 

The answer is yes, and the time is now. 

"As I lay down my life 
And pick up my cross 
What a joy it is to give my life away to you 
All that I need, 
All that I seek 
Is You here with me 
Holy Spirit have Your way in me! "

-LEELAND

LETS DO THIS! 

Monday Mantra

Source

So this Monday Mantra post is dedicated to the fine gentlemen that pulled me over this morning, in a fit of rage might I add,  because I may have not accommodated his plan to race to his sausage biscuit and coffee this morning. Part of me doesn't blame him. I mean, hunger can make you do crazy things, but I would say that pulling me over just to notify me that I upset you probably isn't the most professional way to handle that.

After I had a lesson in 'obeying the rules of the road' (Dane Cook anyone?!), I sent that man away, with a "have a great day" and a smile. Probably more because I was slightly frightened, but there is still a lesson for my heart to learn here. 

"Always be kinder than necessary."

- J. M. Barrie

It's a challenge that you don't always see  the positive effect of it, but choosing it makes us happier. So, why not? I can't say I choose this option all the time or that I even wanted to today, but after I got over it, I think I learned a lesson through my own actions. Happiness is contagious, so spread it.

I hope everyone has a great Monday! 

Incase you are wondering, my new friend got to Mcdonalds in time to beat the morning rush. I sure he is spreading joy as we speak. 

Monday Mantra

Monday's are tough. I am never glad they are here, but let's face it. Monday's come without fail. 

(and sometimes with a big spoonful o' fail. ok, negativity over.)

 I don't know about you but its time we celebrate Monday's just like we would a new season, or a new beginning. Because thats what they are. 

A fresh start. A new day. A clean slate.

Monday's get a bad wrap, but really they are really kind of beautiful. So to help out my fellow Monday haters, I am starting Monday Mantra. 

Motivating/inspiring/encouraging/or maybe just funny words, that are going to help us enjoy our Mondays. 

To kick it off, Ralph Waldo Emerson has something he'd like to say. 

Source

Now you can carry on with your day, because God has something great in store for you. Don't miss it.

#MondayMantra

Bonlook

Honeybadger Frames - Bonlook

As I have mentioned before, I recently ordered some new glasses from Bonlook. What drew me to them was the great prices, trendy/unique styles, and really good photography and design on their webpage.

Am I the only person who judges products by their design? No? Didn't think so. 

 Usually, anytime I purchase new glasses, I end up spending either right under or over $200 (after insurance). I am sure some of you are saying, "thats all?" and others are saying "thats crazy!". Well, I don't know about you, but I don't want to have to spend a couple hundred dollars on a cute pair of glasses. So all of that to say, I was very excited to use Bonlook this time around.

How it works...

• Find the frames you want. 

Use the virtual try-on to find the pair that looks the best on you. Highly-advised. 

• Sign up for their mailing list.

You get $10 off your first order if sign up for their email list. They also offer all kinds of coupon codes. I got one that was $25 dollars off through my email! TOTALLY WORTH IT.

• Enter in your prescription (if you choose to use one).

If you were like me, thinking.."calling my doctor asking for any bit of information sounds like a nightmare", then you are in luck. They have an option for them to take care of all of that for you. They contact your eye doctor to get the info they need, AND it only takes a day or so. 

I got my glasses last Friday and I LOVE THEM! They come in their own little case with a cleaning cloth (and a lollipop :)).

Story Time: The first frames I ordered did not fit my face like I hoped they would. I didn't use the virtual try-on the first time I ordered. Luckily, Bonlook has a GREAT return policy that allows you to return your glasses (even the ones with prescription lenses). So I went back on forth with customer service trying to figure out which glasses would look best on me and offered the look I was going for. Me and sweet Josephine in the customer service dept. had a long email relationship going about sizes of frames and styles. I made that poor girl EARN her paycheck. But you know what... I LOVE my new frames and thanks to the BONLOOK team they made it really easy to get the glasses I wanted for a steal! 

This is not a sponsored post. All opinions on this blog are all my own. 

High Five for Friday!

Isn't this the best?!

We bough our home about 7 months ago and our realtor come by and surprised us with a sweet pumpkin and note! She is seriously the best of the best. For those of you looking to buy your first home, having a kind realtor, who will walk you through the scary/exciting/hectic process, is key! 

Seriously though..

All the seats for Stationery Academy are SOLD OUT! That should tell you how amazing it probably is.. and I say probably because.. well... I've never been, but you better believe I am going to fight for that scholarship and for either of those last two seats! And if not... then I will be the first in line to attend on the next session. :)

Beauty

What is it about hunter boots that make women go crazy and want to buy them in every color?! I am telling you... I yearn for the purple. 

Much like I yearned for my green ones :)

To see other pretty purply things go here.

Wife = Superhero...duh

Sometimes you are called to save the day. In those moments, your cardigan becomes a cape.

#Cardi-Cape

Full story... go here.

Fall Decor via me

I have a small obsession with pumpkins these days. Beige ones to be specific. Can you tell I'm a sucker for a neutral?

TGIF!

Link up with H54F here.

Color Crush: PLUM

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Jewel tones never get old. There is something about this shade of purple that just feel so rich and sophisticated. It will never feel out dated to me. Maybe thats because when paired with gold, it makes you feel like you could rule the world. And that NEVER goes out of style.

Just saying. 

I was disappointed to have empty links from numbers 4 & 6. If anyone knows the source of these gorgeous photos, please comment below to give them credit for their work. 

Ps.. Am I the only person who didn't know Coach sold rings?? This one is another fav! 

High Five for Friday!

Here is a recap of my week!

pretty please

Hazel Berry Paper is officially on Facebook. Like everything I set out to do these days, it took alot longer than it probably should have, but HEY... Done is better than perfect right? OR in the words of Lara Casey... sometimes DONE is PERFECT. So if you are a reader, friend, family member, or a plant please go like it by clicking "pretty please" up above. 

Get this now.

I received my DAY DESIGNER for signing up for my AHINSPRED SESSIONS! I have to say... the price tag on this puppy is not exactly something I was excited about when I first heard of it, but once I got it in the mail ( it came with my inspired session package! ) I realize how valuable it truly is. Just filling out the first few worksheets made my vision a little clearer in how I can accomplish the goals I have set out to reach. Well done, Whitney English. Well done.

HBP

Yes, I am spoiling the surprise with this post, BUT I think its worth sharing the concept. So I did. Booyah.

"For every Hazel Berry Paper order I give a free little gift. Shipping out a meal planner last week inspired me to add a little personal touch! Yep, you guys are spotting some lovely new recipes cards with my holiday apple pie recipe to start! It's sooo delicious, and my husband, the dessert connoisseur, says its incredible! I feel inspired to relish the opportunities to add a heartfelt touch to each and every product that leaves my doorstep. Hopefully, my new friend likes it. :)"

Me on Insta.

NEW PRODUCTS!

I know I have posted about this already this week so go here to read up on these, and go here to get a closer look! 

Art print by Mulberry Press Co.

Sera, of Mulberry Press Co., is such a sweet soul that I discovered through Instagram! I love her creativity and her heartfelt, yet witty products. When I spotted this print by her, I gasped in such excitement because that is a prayer I have prayed many times recently. Thank you Sera for your genuine heart and for this print! I also ordered another item that I just couldn't resist.. but I will share that at a later date. One of my special friends might be receiving it and believe it or not, I don't won't to ruin the surprise! 

This week has been productive. So cheers to that! Time to enjoy the weekend and spend some much needed quality time with my husband! 

Link up with H54F here.

HOORAY!

Guess what y'all!

There are some new notepads in town, minis to be exact! I am loving them! Each of them is a 6"x8" notepad, designed and made with even more love. I decided to try some smaller pads, as the bigger ones aren't always necessary, so let me know your thoughts on the variety! With out further ado, here are my new creations in the shop.... 

"Oh so lovely" mini-notepad----more colors! 

"Hey Beautiful" mini-notepad ---more colors! 

Personalized leaf mini-notepad in a variety of fall colors.

Floral circle monogram mini-notepad- personalize your monogram!

Well there they are. Hope you love them, because I sure do! To view each product in the shop, click on thumbnail image. To go straight to all of the Hazel Berry goodness go here.