The In-Law Relationship | Darling Magazine

Last month I wrote a piece for Darling Magazine online which was all about the in-law relationship, and how to break the stigma that is so often associated with the word. You can read the article in full over at Darling Magazine here and browse through the amazing new sight revamp that was just launched last week in celebration of Darling turning one (also, a really fun photo recap of their anniversary party at Anthropologie! ).

There is this stigma that can too often be placed on the in-law relationship. Our world tells the dating and the newlywed—to beware!—that getting married to the one you love also means a commitment to an entire family photo album’s worth of individuals. It tells those who are married that in-laws are here to stay, so get along, stick that smile on your face, you’re stuck whether you like it or not. So what about this stigma? Yes, in-laws are here to stay, and marriage does mean a commitment to your spouse’s family—but to everything else this stigma drags in, I think our world is wrong. Why do we have to beware? Why do we have to choose wisely on the premise of in-laws? Why is it a negative thing that they are here to stay, and what if I want that? Can we not go into our in-law relationships with an unbiased outlook and an open heart, with grace and without preconceived notions? Clearly, the stigma and attitude surrounding the in-law relationship is flawed. It causes walls to build up before we even allow ourselves to be known, our in-laws to be understood, and a relationship to bud—or even flourish.

Let's Make Envelopes | Darling Magazine

Below is an article I wrote for Darling Magazine this month. Hop on over to Darling Magazine online to read the original article, and don't forget to Pre-order your copy of the Fall Print Edition. Issue No. 5 marks the one year birthday of the inaugural issue! 

Words these days tend to be bare, received instantly through an email, fax, text, and social media. But words received in an envelope? Words sent like that are covered, creating a waiting time—a pause between the writing, the receiving, and the reading. Although our world shifts the pace of words, where communication is sent quickly and read instantly, there's a nostalgia and mystery paired with the envelope. A wonder of “what could be inside?” and a slight pull from our heart to open something so basic and simple that now seems like a novelty.

To keep that sense of wonder, and send words that cause a pause and tearing of a seal—let's make envelopes! Let's create unique handmade envelopes that bring the details of nostalgia and delight to the recipient who's name adorns its exterior.

Spotted: Darling Magazine

To my delight, I stumbled upon Darling Magazine in Denver's Anthropologie yesterday (finally, I don't know where they've been hiding it!). The tassels on the display bedding even matched the cover's balloons. So clever! Did you know that you can pre-order Fall Issue No. 5 of Darling? Yes, its true, you can! And you'll get a free digital copy if you pre-order  >>Take me to Darling's online shop

Also, last week a DIY article I wrote for Darling's online magazine was up. You can read my article, Let's Make Envelopes, in full here. Happy weekend friends!

Giveaway | Weekender Tote & Darling Issue No. 4

Today, Natalie and I have partnered to bring you a fun summer giveaway! Remember that wish list from yesterday? Well, you get the chance to have two items from it, all in the name of summer--because we love it so. We are giving away this orange striped MidiQueen Weekender Bag and a copy of Darling Magazine's Summer Issue. Go over to Thoughts By Natalie to comment and find out ways to enter! The winner will be announced next Friday, July 19th. >>Take me to the giveaway!

Darling Magazine | Issue No. 4

Darling Magazine made a trip to Sayulita, sat poolisde amidst humidity, and graced our communial area for the majority of our stay this past week. Even a few of our guy friends picked up the Spring Issue and remarked words such as "I wish they made a magazine like this for guys!" while reading parts out loud for the group to hear. 

You can still pre-order the Summer Issue of Darling Magazine, and by doing so, get a free digital copy  with your purchase. With bridal showers, birthdays, and vacations on the horizon, stocking up on a few copies isn't a bad idea ;) Even Anthropologie has caught on that this magazine needs to be in the hands of all women (congrats, Darling!)

Writing Over at Darling Magazine

An article I wrote for Darling Magazine was up this past weekend. And I have to say, the process of writing on a specific topic can teach you so much! Unlike past articles I've written--on friendships, travel, projects I've done--this one stretched me to really dig deep and research a topic that I only knew from the surface. I can now say, I feel well equipped to take on even the toughest laundering task. Thanks to tips from women in my life, and a bit of old fashioned book research, I was able to put together The Art of Laundering. You can scroll down and read it in full, and see the original article over at Darling Magazine online.

You are out shopping with your best friend and you've just found the most beautiful piece of clothing to add to your wardrobe. Its versatile and completely you.The fabric on your skin, the color hue against your complexion, and the fit—as if it was made for you, ready to be off the rack and worn out the door. As you hold the textile up and see your reflection in the mirror, you hesitantly reach for the tag near the neckline. Three words stare back at you: dry clean only. Oh how three words so delicately printed and hidden in a garment can stifle the shopper in her tracks! And how quickly your decision to purchase the piece is swayed. All due to laundering.

Burlap Wreath DIY Close Ups

Most commonly made of pine gathered and fastened in a ring, the wreath has a history of symbolizing strength, as the evergreen lasts through even the harshest of winters. May we be reminded to stand strong like the evergreen-- living our lives as women of strength and dignity. Knowing we can make it through the harshest times to enjoy growth and new life.

This past fall, I made a wreath. It was posted so quickly amidst a blogging break and the Thanksgiving holiday, that you actually may have missed it. This little wreath never did quite get the love it should have. And since I've been lacking in the DIY department lately (which is probably bumming a lot of you out), I've decided its time to share the archived photos of when I put together this pretty burlap wreath. The tradition of wreaths and wreath making take root from the autumn and winter months, but I actually really like this particular one as a spring and summer wreath too. The chevron burlap and the white lace add a touch of lightness to it. Why make it stay in a box half the year, am I right?

This style of wreath is simple and easy to make, and would be super cute as decor at a bridal or baby shower. Or behind a door or chair back. It really can be made with any fabric of your choosing, even with brown paper bags as a children's activity. Originally, I shared this DIY over at Darling Magazine. Scroll down and enjoy some up close photographs and step by steps, and check out the original article here. Happy weekend, lovelies!

Darling Magazine | In My Toolbox Series . Part II

Below is Part II of a series I wrote fort Darling Magazine this past month, In My Toolbox: Must Haves for the DIY Girl. I wrote it in collaboration with Matt, incorporating his wealth of tool knowledge and my diy experience. You can catch up on Part I--over here. Scroll down to read Part II in full, and check out the original on Darling Magazine's Website. (Speaking of, you can now order the digital version of Darling Magazine for only $5. Skip that latte, buy Darling Mag! You won't regret it, promise.) 

Darling Magazine | In My Toolbox Series . Part I

Below is Part I of a series I wrote for Darling Magazine, In My Toolbox: Must Haves for the DIY Girl. Matt collaborated with me on the piece, and I am so thankful for his tool guidance! Even better,  the tools photographed for the series are a combination of tools passed down to us from our grandfathers. Scroll down to read it in full, and check out the original on Darling Magazine's Website. 

With warm weather and longer days finally here, visions of projects dance in our heads. The itch to get deep into DIY abounds—“But wait!,” you say, “ I don't have all those fancy tools! I wouldn't even know where to start.” Three words. You are mistaken. To complete the most simple to moderately involved DIY projects you only need a few basic tools. Having the right tool for any job keeps the task from becoming frustrating, taking more time than it should, and possibly ending up with something ruined. Think of an artist, a gardener, a cook—their craft requires the right tools, and the most basic if that, to be enjoyable and successful. In this series, we'll explore those basic tools that any diy girl would need—novice or expert—so that you can have a most successful handmade, make it from scratch, paint-the-town type of season.

Hammer

Everybody has to have one (emphasis on essential). The most well-rounded choice would be a 12” curved claw nail hammer. One of these in your toolbox, and you are good to go! For the more rustic, you can choose a hammer with a wooden handle. For the more modern, you may opt for a metal handled hammer.

Pliers

When asking a turned city dweller: “Why didn't you stay on the farm and be a farmer?” Their response makes case and point: “Every good farmer can fix anything with bailing wire and a pliers. I couldn't.” That statement couldn't be more true. For a lot of wood working projects pliers won't be used much, but having a standard and needle-nose pliers will get you places in life. The Craftsman set of both types from Sears, for example, are a great option.

Adjustable wrench

Yet, another very handy tool. Get a 10” and never look back. This choice fits nearly any size nut or bolt with its adjustable spinning parts. And darling, you won't regret it when you've mastered fixing your leaky sink sans plumber thanks to your handy wrench.

Screwdrivers

There are an abundance of types and sizes of screwdrivers, Philips and Flathead being the most common. A good alternative to getting a full set of different screwdrivers is going with a ratcheting style screwdriver along with a set of interchangeable bits. A set like this can be found at any hardware store, like Harbor Freight. Along with a standard set, you may also need to get a set of very small screwdrivers separately for smaller screws.

Hex Keys

These are not as common and many times come with “build-it-yourself” furniture, eh-em Ikea. However, have you bought something preassembled or already built off Craigslist or thrifted and now it is loose and falling over? Tighten it up with the marvelous hex key. Many bit sets come with these included with them. If you purchase a bit set with a ratcheting style screwdriver, check to make sure it includes hex keys.

*Don't forget, you can still enter the giveaway that's happening for a feature ad spot through Friday afternoon--go HERE. 

The Do It Yourself Simple Guide to Paint

Below is an article I wrote for Darling Magazine this week--a simple guide on all things paint. Scroll down to read it in full, and check out the original on Darling Magazine's Website.

There was once a time when paint was nothing more than plant and flower pigments mixed with egg yolk, or milk mixed with colored pigments, then dried and left ready to be applied. Now, wander down the paint aisle in any hardware store when planning your next do-it-yourself project and be surrounded by the endless paint choices. Glossy, latex, enamels, oil based, water based, primers, cans of spray paint, and an equally large assortment of paint brushes hanging from ceiling to floor. And the colors! Hundreds of shades representing every inch of the color wheel, like simple white paint, are coined with clever names—navajo white, ancient ivory, frosting, cream fleece, ashwood, white heron, moonshine, linen, bone white. Where does one even begin?

When it comes to paint, one size does not fit all. Matching paint with material is essential—so before you hit the paint aisle, and lay out your drop cloth, ready to dip your brush and make a color transformation, here are a few simple things to consider about the endless options out there…

Darling Magazine | Mi Querido, Mon Cher, My Beloved Buenos Aires

 "From its metropolitan streets and epicenter of trade, politics, and business, to its quaint neighborhoods filled with Parisian architecture, cafes and cobblestone streets, to its vibrantly colored 'caminitos' echoing accordion notes, tango twirls, and artisan flare—Buenos Aires is a city so full of diversity and life that it cannot be missed as a destination perfect for any so-desiring world traveler." read more at Darling Magazine...

You can read my latest travel article Mi Querido, Mon Cher, My Beloved Buenos Aires over at Darling Magazine Online (and enjoy more photographs from the trip, below!). If you are in need of travel and adventure today, explore Rome, Machu Pichu, Amsterdam, or Playa Del Carmen --a few more travel pieces for your heart full of wanderlust. 

One Year.

A year ago today, we were living in Burbank, California with the future ahead unknown and wide open. Soon we would be leaving towards the Rockies to deepen our roots in a new place we would call home. A year ago today, the first post to ever grace this little blog was written and published. Here are a few words of that very first post, "A blog for the reader who wants to feel lovely. Revisit soon for new posts on topics such as classic beauty, home design, artsy hobbies, riding bikes, picking daisies, simple cooking, thoughts on faith, music, fashion and accessorizing, and other tidbits related to the endless adventures being a girl."

It is amazing to see how God works. How He plants a seed in your heart and sees it to fruition. PPP has been a catalyst for my self discovery, a stepping block to my passion for writing, and an outlet for my love with design and aesthetic. Its growth reflects mine, in a sense. And I just love that. As far as writing on the endless adventures of being a girl, and for the reader who wants to feel lovely, I have been blessed to be a contributor for Darling Magazine. The opportunity to write alongside other women who live out true beauty--I couldn't have asked for anything more fulfilling. Who would have thought that when I wrote the very first post a year ago, that today I'd be sitting here today seeing that seed planted actualized in my life. And still ever blooming, with still so much growth ahead, how so excited I get thinking about that.

Anyways, happy birthday pearls poppies pinkies up--and so much love and thankfulness for the friends & readers of this little blog from the very beginning!

Playa del Carmen, Mexico

When embarking upon any coastal travels south of the border, visions of warm sand, sun-kissed skin, and melodies of dancing waves linger as swimsuits are packed and sunscreen applied. It is said,“The cure for anything is saltwater—sweat, tears, or the sea” -Isak Dinesen. Perhaps that is why Playa del Carmen offers a sense of restoration for its travelers. With sea bound exploration, Playa’s Caribbean ocean provides solace, reflection, and a place for discovery...continue reading.

Just what is it about the sand and the sea that soothes the soul just so? One of my all time favorite Mexico destinations has the best combination of coastal leisure and adventure. You can read my latest travel article over at Darling Magazine Online for a bit of a glimpse into this lovely fishing town. It is actually where Matt and I honeymooned!

Bikes, Waffles, & Van Gogh

Slip on your wooden shoes, grab your stroopwafles, and call up your Opa because I wrote another article for Darling Magazine--and this time, its all about Amsterdam! 

“Where the broad ocean leans against the land,” (Oliver Goldsmith) you’ll find a place stacked tall with narrow living, a maze of canals, and a bustling of residents dreamily riding bicycles with high handlebars. Some still call it Holland. But the names printed on maps know it as The Netherlands—and this city, Amsterdam. To visit this city below the sea is to experience a culture rich in architecture, art, and history. With 17th century neighborhoods, to markings of Van Gogh’s starry night, to memoirs of Anne Frank, to a city brimming with bikes and delicious waffles, to outskirts so green with mighty windmills and Dutch traditions, Amsterdam is yet another place to mark on your map of adventures.

You can read the article Bikes, Waffles, and Van Gogh at Darling Magazine Online where its posted in full--over here. Want to read more of what I've been contributing over at Darling? You can catch up by scrolling through posts--over here.  And of course, no travel post would be complete without a few photographs to delight your adventuring tastebuds, am I right? 

Darling Magazine | Issue No. 3

I often share my excitement about the down to earth, humble and true articles that are up at Darling Magazine online. If you are a friend of mine of Facebook, you might see an overwhelming stack of shared articles on my page--they just speak to me so loud and clear, and I cannot help but tell others about the wise words that pull on my heart strings. And if you follow me on Instagram, you may have been noticing the #darlinginstachallenge photos lately. It's also quite possible you have enjoyed a cup of coffee while reading one of the online pieces, which are written by a handful of women who love Darling so--me included. So yes, I am a huge fan of Darling Magazine. What this magazine, this movement, stands for I want to shout out to the world. One thing you may not be as privy to, is that Darling is not only online. Darling Magazine is in print-- and its truly wonderful! I have Issue No. 1 and Issue No. 2 on my coffee table, and I cannot tell you how often I open them and reread the message of true beauty and worth the pages bestow. Or how often my girlfriends can be found flipping through Darling when they sit in our living room. 

{Darling Magazine} Thou Art in Rome!

As I continue to take a step back from writing and DIYing everyday here at pearls poppies pinkies up, you can still find me writing over at Darling Magazine. Lately, I have been contributing pieces for The Explorer, relating to travel and adventure. I have been so blessed to be able to experience a few cities very different from my own--and am so thankful to get to write about them! The latest on Rome was posted yesterday at Darling Magazine online. You can read the article in full over here. 

 "Rome brought life to my taste buds, showed me how to dine for hours, and proved that gelato really is a food group. Rome opened my eyes to a beauty I had never seen, made from dirt, fire, and dust. This entrancing city was my first travel romance and my first true love in Europe. And even after weeks of prepping for this trip, brushing up on history, studying the hand of Michelangelo, marking my map with must see Piazzas and cafes before arriving, nothing could have prepared me for Rome..."

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.

Postcards & Tips for the Intentional Long Distance Friendship.

I've made it a hobby of sorts to collect postcards during our travels. A lover of snail mail and the art of keeping in touch the old-fashioned way, most of the postcards I buy will be sent off with glimpses into the adventures we had while on our trip to friends all over the states. A few of the postcards end up in a book where I keep other stubs and maps from our travels--all binded up and ready to be flipped through.

Darling Tea Towels

Last week my tips and how to's for Hand Painted Tea Towels was up at Darling Magazine under The Hostess. You can read the article in full over here. I just sent some of these tea towels off to my best friend and her mom--they are the perfect Christmas gift! And they work great a-top a mason jar filled with goodies like peanut brittle, homemade granola, or peppermint bark. YUM! I hope this winter is treating you well! We leave for Argentina and Peru in 6 days! Its going to be a summer-like Christmas this year. Love and cheer from me to you!

 xo, Lauren

Thanksgiving with a side of DIY.

Hi friends! I know I said I wouldn't be on here until Spring, BUT had to let you know of the Fallen Leaves Wreath over at Darling Magazine that I contributed. You can read the article in full under The Hostess--over here. (You may remember my inspiration for the wreath HERE). In less than five hours I am on a plane headed straight West. California here I come! I have not been back to see my friends and family since before this blog was even created...crazy, right? It is way past due. I hope you enjoy your time giving thanks with loved ones!