High Five for Friday

ITS FRIDAY and I am in LOVE... with this cute little girl. Stella says Happy Friday!

My top 5 for this week:

1. Every now and then during my work days, I take a small break to just regroup and take my eyes off of the computer screen. I should probably be taking a walk around the neighborhood or something productive like that, but instead, I decide to look at pretty things I can't afford. :) 

Plus, my Dad got this magazine at his office and saved it for me (so sweet right?!) because he knows his daughter has expensive taste! HA!

2. I am so excited to get some new products in the shop! And this is just a sneak peak of some new things to come! 

3. I got fun mail this week!! No Joke, I open the mail box and there are 5 bills (FIVE BILLS!!) and then a little gem hidden underneath! To make it even better, the note was thanking me for a note of encouragement I sent a few weeks ago. I love love love a friend who pursues me by one of my love languages! Truly special.

4. Stella has been learning so many new tricks and she is doing really well in her obedience classes at PetSmart! If you were looking into their classes for dogs, I highly recommend it! Right now, our biggest lesson we are trying to learn is not to chew on mommy's Hunter boots. 

"You are the perfect combination of fun and boring", my valentine says.

5. If you ever find your self in downtown chattanooga, stop on by the Public House. Zack and I went there for our Valentine's date and it was such a great experience with great food, great wine and incredible carrot cake!! Plus everything is white.... Heaven! 

Hope everyones week was wonderful! Mine sure was, but I am WORN OUT. So I will leave you with this sleepy image of my golden girl. 

If you wanna know more about High Five for Friday, click the button on the right!

Be Still

Photo by Brian Shakley

Lately, I have struggled with a morning routine. Which ends up making me feel like there aren't enough hours in the day to get the things I want, and the things I need, to get accomplished, done. It's a frustrating and defeating cycle. But without fail, in my rushed moments of prayer, God whispers to my heart to be still. Thats it, just be still. Be still so that I can listen, absorb his sovereignty, and focus my goals to align with the path he has set before me. One day I will sit down and write down the story of how this little dream came to be, but until then, this verse pretty much sums it up.

Naturally I am a planner, so this is hard for me to grasp at times. BUT God's timing and plan is perfect. The plans I make for myself will never be, and again, that is a hard pill to swallow when you've got plans and dreams and drive. God wants to use that fire inside of my heart, but just for the right things at the right times. So for now, I will do my best to BE STILL and know that he protects and guides me in the best direction, always. 

A song I heard on Way FM the other day really captures this concept. Listen and fall in love! 

Casting Crowns - Already There

Beauty Trend: OMBRE

Every few months, I get the itch to do something different in the beauty department. Luckily for my husband, small, budget friendly changes usually satisfy me. But this time? I think I may branch out a little more into this 'ombre' trend. 

I don't want anything too crazy, so I have gathered a few photos for some inspiration. I have a fair complexion with dark brown hair, so I am thinking maybe the "Kate Beckinsale' or the 'Sofia Bush' is the way to go. What are your thoughts on this trend… Which is your favorite?

I will update you all on the new 'do' when its done!

P.S. ITS SNOWING HERE, YAY!!!! (finally!)

She is Hazel Berry

Sometimes in our day to day responsibilities and when we have put everyone's needs above our own, we forget who we are and what we stand for. Sometimes the reasons why we do what we do, or the really amazing qualities that we love about ourselves, get lost because of our never ending to do lists and comparison of others success. 

Well it's time to give your self a few minutes to remember all of those lovely qualities that make your heart really special. When reading Emily Ley's '5 minutes' post this week, it struck a cord with me and made me give my self 5 minutes to gather my self, pray, and be reminded of the who Hazel Berry is. 

Give your self a few minutes today.

HAPPY FRIDAY!

Happy MLK Day!

It would be ri-donk-ulous if I didn't take a moment to reflect on the importance of this day. Having the courage to chase your dreams involves a serious kind of courage. I am so grateful for those who have made it looked achievable enough for me to make it happen for myself, and those who have shared when it was harder than you ever imagined. Your encouraging stories of stumbles and triumphs are truly inspiring, and it pushes me daily to GO FOR IT. So, thank you. 

And THANK YOU Mr. King for this encouraging call to action. You deserve this day.

Now, I am off to enjoy this sunshine with a couple of my dream come trues. 

bedtime stories // melts me

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! 

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!

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!

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.

Swooning on Saturday

Good Morning! So far on this Saturday morning, I have enjoyed coffee on the deck, read a few more chapters in an amazing book, and put on my orange and white for the day... GBO! 

Here is what I have been swooning over this week on Pinterest!

Source

This will be my next business venture. 

Source
This made me laugh so hard. Love the #dadfacts. 

Source

I've been having an obsession with Calligraphy lately.  I've got a long way to go, but I love the hand lettering look and how everyone's style is so different. Your style says so much about you and your personality. My hand lettering personality will be making its debut next week in a new art print for the shop. YAY!

Source

I LOVE Lauren Conrad. She is such a classy individual with impeccable style. This photo obviously isn't her, but it is from her blog on her Geek Chic Style Guide post. I might have attempted this outfit this week... Come on, I know I'm not the only one who goes to Pinterest for outfit inspiration!

Source

 One million times yes. 

Source

I JUST KNOW IT. 

Source

I need something new in the hair dept. I'm not adventurous with it these days. I used to be in my high school and early college years and it didn't serve me well. It brought to life my first what was I thinking moments. What I Love about Jessica Biel Timberlake's hair here is the very subtle ombre meets highlights look. I am not a huge fan of the I just dipped the bottom of my hair in bleach look, so this is more what I think I can handle. My hair girl might be getting a call next week....

Happy Saturday!

Savor September

Let Light Art Print via Hazel Berry Paper

Although inconsistent, I attempted #intentionalaugust this past month. I did make some big moves that I'm proud of and really excited to continue pursuing! As we enter a new month, its time to reevaluate a little bit. 

Lara Casey's most recent blog post was a cluster of honesty, transparency, and humility. 

I just love her heart. 

She reminded me that too much of a good thing, is still too much. In working toward so many goals, my mind can only agree with that statement and feel comforted by it. Even when I'm following what I believe is God's path for me, I can only handle so much. 

We are taking a little mini vacation for the holiday weekend, and what perfect timing to slow down a bit. I really look forward to it and I even look forward to coming home and starting a new month of hard work, with a fresh mind.

Less hustle, more quality time with loved ones, more rest, more grace, and more love. Let's do this #savorseptember. 

To purchase art print about go here. To browse other Hazel Berry goodness, go here. 

In honor it Labor Day weekend, any purchases in the shop, from today until Wednesday, are 10% off. Use coupon code: LABORDAY at checkout to receive the discount. 

Have a great weekend! 

The Beginning

Source

I've been thinking about what to say in this fist blog post all week… ALL WEEK! In hopes to save my brain from exploding over the most important topic decision ever… (not really)… I am going to just go with it and talk about what ever makes my heart happy in this moment. 

I saw this quote the other day on the Katie O'Keefe Blog (which is one of my favorites by the way..) and it made my mind stop running its daily marathon and really think. I have so many goals, loads of passion and ambition. Three things that didn't exist, to the extent that they do now, until about 6 month ago. I've always been goal oriented, but I lacked a lot of drive. The kind of drive that makes you put your self out there to either fly or fall. But now I've got it, I've found it, and I'm doing it. Exciting right? I think so!

All that to say, I get consumed with my dreams and passions. (I mean, why do something if you can't put your all into it… right?) Although I believe that to be an integral part to making things happen for yourself, Its not everything. I read a post last night on Instagram in themed with #intentionalaugust (compliments of Lara Casey), and this person said some profound things about being present in the moment. It really hit home, in relation with how preoccupied we can be with thoughts, social media, you name it. I believe that I really try to be in the moment and soak them up as much as possible, but I am so imperfect. I want to try harder, be present, and engage more.
Live with Intention :)
(you might read that quite a bit over here :) )

When it matters most, hustle a little less, and love a whole lot more.

Source

And I know this is contradicting to that last phrase, but isn't this T-shirt the bestest???? Ashley Brooke Designs, People. Another favorite.