ocean

DIY: seascape framed prints

So I just made these 2 prints over the weekend and could not be more pleased with how they turned out.  For less than 30 minutes and under $40 for 2, I’m leaping for joy. photos on wall IMG_2293 edited But let’s back up the train a little.  A while back, I was looking through Williams-Sonoma Home and came across these lovely seascape prints. Williams Sonoma Prints As I’m finally making our bedroom makeover a reality, they would be PERFECT.  But for $895 for 2…. let’s be real here.  That’s more than just slightly over the budget for something with a simple concept.  Coastal shot + white frame = it’s not rocket science.  And that’s when I had my ah-ha moment of “I’m totally making that myself”. Even though I consider myself much a creative being, I don’t set aside the time to craft or do DIY projects.  I have tons of ideas (and the Pinterest boards to prove it) but ambition.. ehhhh, not so much. But these little pretties are sooooo doable. First of all, you will need to grip up some simple inexpensive white frames.  I like these frames from Michael’s. Michaels 12x12 frames I got the 12×12 size with the 8×8 opening.  I bought them in the store. They cost about $30 each, but with that weekly 40% off coupon you can score one for around $18. Next is the print.  In my last life when I worked at Pizitz in Seaside, we carried this amazing book called Still: Oceanscapes. Still Oceanscapes book You can judge a book by its cover because it is exactly what you think – a bunch of wonderful ocean pictures.  And yes, you guessed it: totally framed print-worthy.  I can’t imagine just cutting up a beautiful hardbound book like this…. unless, well, it is used or damaged.  My next amazing idea.  Jump on Amazon and search for it used and you’ll come up with a whole list. Screen Shot 2015-02-10 at 7.20.28 AM I paid $3.99 for my book, but it was awhile ago. There are some as low as $1.72 + shipping!  So for about $5 you’ll have a plethora of prints to choose from. For supplies you’ll just need a cutting mat, ruler, and Exacto knife. IMG_2257 Next, I just picked out the ones I wanted to use and cut them out.   Pop them in and you’re ready to rock and roll. IMG_2270 IMG_2278 photos on wall

And there you have it.  Awesome prints without the crazy price tag. Yes, I’m aware the Williams – Sonoma prints are much larger, and actual legit professional prints, but still that is WAYY too much to spend for me.  You’re welcome.

beach withdrawls & florida memories

It’s been raining for about 24 hours straight.  This was the view from out my back window this morning:

It seems like good ol’ FB is just blowing up with pictures from people on their fabulous spring breaks.  It really makes me miss that beach town we used to call home, Destin.

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(Photo by Chris Frey, found on Destin Chamber of Commerce’s website)

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White sand beaches…Blue/green water….good friends…amazing seafood = MAJOR WITHDRAWLS.

My memory takes me back to a week after graduating from college, with my silver Cutlass stuffed to max capacity with all the clothes and necessities I could fit.  I remember what it felt like to drive away, looking back at the home I grew up in, one last time.  I didn’t know how much my life was about to change at the time…I just knew I had a dream, and I had to chase it.

I got to FL and the first 6 months of my life was like a vacation: beach everyday, killer tan, exploring all the great spots to eat, drink and be merry.  Being a tourist was like my job and damn was I good at it.

It’s like one day I woke up, it was 2011. It had been 3 years since I moved to the Emerald Coast.   I was working full-time, couldn’t tell you the last time I went to the beach just to lay out and tan. Probably had been months.  And the next thing I knew Nate got that job offer and we were moving to San Antonio.  Ironically, three short weeks later, I was driving away from a place most people dream of living, starting all over again.

I guess my point from this random babble is that we get so caught up with our day-to-day routine that we take things (& people) for granted.  Don’t forget to live in the moment.   You never know where life will take you – so when you have something beautiful right within your reach, take it.  This weekend I encourage everybody to do one thing they absolutely LOVE, no matter what.  No excuses.  Life is too short not to play (even if it’s in the rain). 🙂