White on black

This photo was taken 9 years ago. I think I had just finished this white charcoal piece before taking the photo. A part deep down in me wants to draw again. Draw more often. Stay up late and have hands covered in charcoal and pencil smudges. There are a lot of things I want to do now that I did more nine years ago. It's time to make that happen. Have you had a yearning to do more of something that is so utterly a part of you, but that you've put on the back burner for years?

the Birch & the Bee

My amazing cousin Jenna and her husband Blake are kickstarting their new line the Birch & the Bee. I believe in what they are making and hope you do too! (Those earrings! I get to choose a pair, but don't know which to pick they are all so stinkin' cute!) Take a moment to enjoy their kickstarter video and meander over to the Birch & the Bee (.com)

I'm so excited about this! XO, Lauren

Discovering Machu Pichu

Remember how we traveled to South America this past December? I've been writing about our experiences, and one is up at Darling Magazine. It is through the adventuring heart of the explorer, past and present, that the rest of the world is able to know what lies beyond our grasp, just waiting to be revealed. Read more on exploring and Machu Pichu at Darling Magazine--over here.

Enamored by photographs.

I keep finding myself typing in "Parker Fitzgerald" in the Pinterest search box. His work continues to take me somewhere wild. Somewhere simple. Someplace where evergreen trees, wool socks, peeling paint, and fresh air are such a cornerstone of living. Have you seen his photography before? Its enamoring. You can browse like I did and see for yourself--over here. 

Monogrammed Mugs

Anthropologie inspired. Self made. Monogrammed. They never get old, no matter how popular they are these days. And, yep, I still love a great sharpie project. I made these mugs this past Christmas as gifts, and happened upon a few photos today. My favorite letter? The A -- it has a cute little arrow like shape in its design. All of the mugs were bought second hand at Goodwill stores, too, making this a very lean and green project. I think it ended up being about $1 per mug when I broke it down. Cannot beat that for affordable giving! Happy Weekend!

XOXO

Happy Valentine's Day, wherever your kisses may come from!

images via pinterest

Stay Warm {and cozy}.

via ARMOMMY

It is getting a little bit chilly here in Denver! And especially for those on the East Coast with this blizzard! Even my home state, California, is enjoying rain and frost. To even think it! Stay warm, and check out this cozy and cute valentine DIY from armommy-- over here. Happy weekend!

To the Road.

photographed by Corrie Bond and styled by Kate Harrowsmith for Marie Claire Australia

If given a wish to do anything right now, it would be to road trip with one of my best girl friends. What would you do if given a wish, and you had to use it right now?