Deep Beauty

I had a great conversation with my brother Brett this morning. We spoke about a lot of things but one thing really stood out to me. We were talking about the time my grandparents spent living in Washington DC. For the first time in my life I saw some of the challenges they might have faced there, and my respect for them deepened immensely. Brett shared with me some letters of correspondence between my Papa (grandfather) and Presidents Harold B. Lee and Gordon B Hinckley. The content of these letters truly spoke to my heart. President Lee inquired how they were doing in a glamorous world where "all that glitters is NOT gold." President Hinckley inquired about their homesickness and encouraged them to quietly and humbly do the work they were called to do, knowing that Zion awaited them upon their return back home.

The correspondence between Papa and the brethren opened my eyes to see the potential for a sense of difficulty in their circumstances. While my Papa had a demanding assignment, Nana was primarily responsible for the rearing of their little family. We have numerous records from my grandfather, but for the first time I wished I knew how Nana felt. I wished I could talk to her and find out her perspective, as I'm sure it would be rather enlightening. There they were, in a high society position, and yet they weren't wealthy by any means. I wondered if Nana ever felt out of place as a humble and modest woman, in a fashionable upper-class world. I wondered if she ever sought to fit in or questioned her value.

My heart went out to her and I felt certain that she had demonstrated great faith during those and many other difficult days. Her quiet example of virtue and womanhood has blessed my life in countless ways. I see my mother in her. I see me in them. I see the value in a beautiful and faithful woman of God, and it is indeed far above rubies.

Having just finished a Standards night on the importance of modesty with the young women I work with, my respect for my dear grandmother deepened. In a world where we all want to fit in, it is truly beautiful to see women who stand out because they stand for truth and righteousness. Working in an aesthetic industry, I know all too well the emphasis the world places on appearances. I myself am often caught up in wanting to fit in and have to remind myself that my value comes from within.

Sister Dalton defines the kind of beauty my dear Nana possessed, the kind of beauty that really matters.

"Deep beauty springs from virtue. It is the beauty of being chaste and morally clean. It is the kind of beauty that you see in the eyes of virtuous women like your mother and grandmother. It is a beauty that is earned through faith, repentance, and honoring covenants. The world places so much emphasis on physical attractiveness and would have you believe that you are to look like the elusive model on the cover of a magazine. The Lord would tell you that you are each uniquely beautiful." Elaine S Dalton

Today I caught of glimpse of the past and I realized it isn't too different the world I live in now. The sound counsel of Prophets of God to my own dear grandparents has spoken peace to my heart. I must remember that all that glitters is not gold. Real happiness and peace is waiting at home.

With Love,
L

Interior Inspiration

Inspired by:

Via Chikkaboom.blogspot.com

Scrapbooked:

I know, I know... I said I would post a new installment of Interior Inspiration weekly, and it's been two weeks. Sorry about that;) This page has actually been done for quite a while... but with all the birthdays, our anniversary, etc... I had too many things to share!

So here we go again... I loved this little nook in what I presume is a living room space on the ChiKKaBoom  girls' blog. It's a mom and daughter design team blog full of fabulous inspiration. Like our last designer, Laci Davis, they do a little spot on KSL's Studio 5. Their DIY projects are so stylish and affordable! You have to check it out!! They just did a special on doilies and I was Smitten! I have to make a doilie scarf immediately;)

Inspired by:

Teal. (Last year's color of the year, but still SO very on trend)

"Keep Calm and Carry on" (pretty much EVERYWHERE in the design world.
Thank you England.)

Damask prints

Ruffles

Chairs (Big trend in the Scrapbooking arena)

Vintage suitcases (love the mustard color!)

Thanks ChiKKaBoom ladies for the inspiring decor! I'm quite happy with how this little page turned out.

Be sure to watch next week for more inspiration!

With Love,

L

With Hope

I can't believe I never posted these photos! I got some awesome sun flair shots at the San Diego Temple last year with Whitney. It is so stunning! I want to go back and visit again so much!

Today I had a new installment of Interior Inspirations ready to post... but that can wait till tomorrow. I just wanted to share a little reminder that there is always hope, no matter how hard things seem at the moment. During difficult times the Lord blesses me with little daily reminders of hope. He knows what I need and what speaks to me. Hope is a gift and I would be lost without it.

What to read a beautiful talk on hope? Go here. It will brighten your day.

With Hope,
L

Just for Fun!

This little card came together so fast! I LOVE it! It's bright and cheerful... and just plain FUN!

Sometimes I worry that I'm not a very fun person... I'm pretty good at being serious and sincere... but letting loose is a bit more risky. In an attempt to convince myself otherwise, here is a little list of fun things I've been up to lately...

1. Galavanting about Park City pretending to be fancy in my $12 Target fedora and big sunglasses
2. Chasing the beavers along the roadside making silly noises at them
3. Covering our home in colorful polka dots for Danny's birthday (I'll post photos soon!)
4. Surprising Danny with a drive-in-movie date watching UP on my laptop and sharing grape sodas
5. Coloring Easter Eggs with Jeni, Danny, and Mauri
6. Helping put Mauri's hair clips in her uncles/papa's hair (It's easy to be fun with her around!)
7. Singing and doing the actions to Popcorn Popping with Danny for Family Home Evening
8. Playing ball with Dolly

Well... that is all I can think of. I suppose I'm not entirely dull. Phew! Time to go have more fun! Okay, I'll be cleaning, doing laundry, and preparing for this week's Young Women activity... but I may just whistle while I work;)

With Hope,

L

Signs of Spring!

There are beautiful signs of spring everywhere! I love looking at the world through the lens of my camera. So many wonderful things to see! While it's been a rather chilly spring so far, I've still enjoyed seeing all of the beautiful flowers and blossoms blooming. Of course you know I loved seeing those baby ducklings!! Even if it is supposed to snow tonight, spring is here and I'm going to enjoy it today... than I'll hurry inside and bundle up in a cozy blanket, trying to convince myself it isn't still January;)

With Hope,
L

Birthday Boys!

Birthday Boy #1

Yesterday was a big day for my brother Brett! It was his 30th birthday and he graduated with his Masters! We had a little photoshoot Wednesday and he looked so handsome! Mauri said he was looking sharp;) I couldn't be more proud of my big brother. He is one of my best friends and biggest heros. I look up to Brett so much! He is so kind, humble, and sincere. He is also one of the smartest people I know. His quest for knowledge has always been impressive to me. In elementary school he often asked for more homework, and even did a report on how much he loved school. In a couple of months he will set off for TCU to begin his Doctoral studies. Way to go Brett!!

Birthday Boy #2

Today is my Danny's 28th birthday! For exactly two months we will be the same age... than I'll be the older woman again, and he won't let me forget it;) I hope he has a perfect day! I remember a few years ago, before we were dating, we celebrated his birthday and I forgot to turn the oven on to bake his cupcakes. The timer rang but it still didn't smell like cake...I hurried and baked them and frosted them as people were showing up for his party. The frosting on hot cupcakes was a melted mess. Another year we had a huge party for Brett and Danny with a pinata, quesadillas, and pupsas (El Salvadorian tortillas with beans and cheese). We had karaoke too... I've yet to persuade Danny to get up and sing... someday maybe. Last year we spent his birthday in El Quilite, Mexico. I'm not sure how to top that, but I will certainly try to make it a good day for him! Happy Birthday honey, I love you more!

Hello Babies!!

We had a great Lynley moment on our way home from Park City! As we were driving along Provo Canyon I spotted a furry little creature. We turned around and I hopped out with my camera. There by the roadside were three happy beavers! (I think these are beavers, right? Correct me if I'm wrong.) I squeeled and started making the best beaver noises I could think of... Danny reminded me to squeel on the inside so they wouldn't be scared away. Good thinking.

I was surprised because I thought beavers only lived in water. They were mischievous little babies, ducking in and out of holes just as I'd go to snap a photo... but I think they did like me a bit, because they let me get quite close and take several photos. Pehraps they appreciated my attempt to communicate with them in their own language, or they speak chipmunk... which is probably closer to the noise I was making at them;) I loved them. Thanks little guys!

With Love,
L

Surprised!!

Danny surprised me with an amazing getaway to Park City for our anniversary. He had to be out of town for business on our actual anniversary... we were both really sad about that, but decided to celebrate the following day. I was just planning on making a nice dinner and exchanging gifts when his flight got in Sunday afternoon... so imagine my surprise when he handed me a suitcase and told me to pack! It was such a fun and thoughtful gift, and we had a lovely time! I felt utterly spoiled!! I used to think these things only happened in the movies... than I met Danny;)

With Love,

L 

I Love You More

Happy Anniversary Danny!

I love you more. 

More than all the toile and vintage goodness in the world. 

More than roaming the streets of Paris with camera in hand. 

More than sitting at my piano for hours. 

More than hot tamales. 

More than the smell of rain. 

More than a room full of scrapbooking supplies. 

More than puppies and kitties (but please don't tell Dolly, okay?) 

More than my favorite pair of yellow shoes.
I love you more than springtime.

More than a great hair day. 

More than gluten free cookies. 

More than Josh Groban, Mindy Gledhill, and Coldplay combined. 

More than a new cardigan with coordinating accessories. 

More than even the loveliest sunset at the beach.

I love you more than the day I fell for you. 

I love you more than all the shooting stars and moonlight rides. 

I love you more than the best of times. 

I love you so much more than the hard times. 

I love you more than the day you became my husband for time and all eternity. 

I love you more than I ever knew I could love someone. 

I love you so much more. 

More than words can say.

With More Love,
L

One Year Later...

Photography by Mckenzie

Tomorrow is our first anniversary!

We've had a beautiful year full of lots of love. A few of the highlights:

A perfect wedding day!
Honeymoon to Mexico. We love the BEACH and SUNSHINE! (not so much the sunburns)
Danny's 27th birthday in El Quilete. Lola the parrot stole his wristband entrance back into our hotel.
Friday night dates
Summer camping trips (I think Danny liked these a bit more than me)
Danny gave me a PIANO for my 28th birthday!
Lana and Brandon's wedding... photographing and celebrating! Trip to St George with Ruth.
Catching neighborhood drug dealers in our own backyard. (Danny definitely liked this better than me!)
An addition to our family... our puppy, DOLLY! She's such a cute little stinker;)
Decorating, organizing, redecorating, still organizing...
Lots of trips to the DI (thrift store) together
Park City with the Johnsons
Danny threw me a "retirement" party when I quit CTMH
Danny's company Christmas party. (Oops I did it again... karaoke queen, right here)
Our first Christmas
Steph and John's wedding
Season tickets to the local community theater
Danny attempting to teach me to ski
Everyday moments just spending time together
Looking forward to our trip to El Salvador this summer
Good things to come...

Of course we had our fair share of challenges too... but we've made it through them together. I am so grateful for my Danny and for our many blessings. I love you more Danny;) Happy Anniversary!

We failed miserably at catching up with thank you notes. I'm so embarrassed. To all of you who helped make our day beautiful and shared so much with us... THANK YOU! Your kindness was truly not overlooked. We appreciate your generosity and love so much.

With Love,
L

Introducing: Interior Inspiration

Inspired by:

Via Laci Davis at lacislatest.blogspot.com

Scrapbooked:

I'm SO excited to introduce a new scrapbooking and design feature here on my little blog! You'll be seeing weekly Interior Inspiration posts introducing you to beautiful interior design, amazing designers, and more scrapbooking goodness!

As a professional Scrapbooker, I look for inspiration everywhere! Interior Design is just bursting with elements that can be translated into beautiful pages. I'll be looking to color stories, patterns, and motifs and drawing inspiration to create my work, while of course keeping up with the latest trends in the scrapbooking industry. So without further adieu...

Today's feature highlights a bold yet feminine living space designed by Laci Davis. Laci is a local designer and photographer with impeccable style!! She has a fun little feature on KSL's Studio 5 and blogs about the latest trends in fashion, home decor, and all things stylish. You have to check out her blog!! She's super adorable and her Laci's Latest features are FULL of inspiration!

Inspired by:

Stripes, stripes, stripes!!!

Honeysuckle Pink (Pantone's Color of the Year)

Ruffles

Bows (look at that adorable pillow!!)

Chandeliers

Houndstooth and Zebra Stripes: pattern, pattern, pattern!!!

Thanks Laci for the oh so inspiring decor!! I love how this page turned out so much! Hope you'll check in every week to see more!!

With Love,

L

Of Course I Did...

OF COURSE... I had to do a hot air balloon onesie!! I think it could be a cute gift for either a boy or girl. This one happens to be going to my dear friend Lana's soon-to-be baby boy! It leaves me wanting to make more, perhaps with some happy little clouds! Love it!

Enjoy,
L

C is for Circus!

Meanwhile back under the Big Top... 

Lest I worried you with my last post, I WILL still be sharing my cards and pages here on this little blog. The thing is, I have a studio FULL of beautiful paper, embellishments, and products that make me happy! So... I'll keep showing my creations here, but without the intention of seeking for recognition or approval. If I like it, I'll post it. No more cyber people pleasing!

I'm excited to introduce a new scrapbooking and design feature here this week! Stay tuned...

With Hope,

L

Perfectionism and Creativity

I have struggled a great deal lately finding value in the creative work I'm doing. I have prayerfully considered giving up scrapbooking and photography altogether for a time, but I don't think that is necessary or even right. It felt like trying to force a break-up with someone I knew I loved! I'm not going to run away from my creative pursuits, but I am willing to shift my focus in order to find peace. 

I reached a breaking point a few weeks ago where it became clear that in order to restore my creative spirit, it was essential to step back and evaluate myself, and the motivation behind my creative endevors. In discussing these concerns with fellow artists, and tuning into numerous blogs in the scrapbooking and design industry, I think I am not alone in my conflicted feelings. It seems many of us are silently dissatistied with our own creative contributions.

I have always had an innate need to express myself creatively--whether it be through drawing, photography, scrapbooking, or other forms of crafting. So why the frustration lately? Where did the joy go? I'm on a journey to understand. My creative soul must be restored, and despite the temptation to sign up for trendy (and expensive) retreats with claims of reawakening creativity, I feel it is something only I can do. 

Danny and I took a little trip to the bookstore the other night and I picked up a remarkable book called The Gifts of Imperfection by Brene Brown. I had previously seen it recommended on the well known scrapbooker Ali Edward's blog. I've read the book this week, and coupled with loads of inspiration from the recent LDS General Conference and Young Women meeting, I've made a few observations: 

1. I look to other scrapbooking and design blogs for inspiration, but this can become dangerously addictive and dissatisfying. While I know the truth of my own blog posts, I only see the appearance of perfection among blogs I follow. PERFECT PAGES. PERFECT PHOTOS. PERFECT LIVES. How could I ever measure up to that?

2. Having worked as a professional scrapbooker under the coorporate name, I felt invisible and sought recognition and praise for the work I did. In setting out on my own, I haven't yet had any submissions accepted, and now feel even less visible... and unfortunately, less valuable. Like it or not, I've connected public praise with personal value.

3. Shame. With a quest for humility, authenticity, and a sure knowledge of my divine worth, seeking for recognition and belonging among said blogs/bloggers comes with feelings of shame and embarrassment. Why do I desire worldly success when I KNOW what really matters most?

So there you have it. Pefectionism, pride, and shame (in a nutshell)... a perfect recipe for dissatisfaction and emotional distress. It's no wonder my creative spirit and emotional stamina have been in peril. My spiritual self knows better, but the fight against the natural man is real and daunting. This post is vulernable, yet in addressing these concerns I hope to find peace.

I'm excited to share some of the insights I've been learning here, even/especially if the only "value" that comes from it is my own personal growth. That is enough for me. Along with photos, creative work, and the stories I tell...I want to share my honest journey in the fight against perfectionism, and the things I am learning about myself along the way.

With Hope,

L

Vintage Fire Extinguisher

My Danny knows me SO well! If it's old and random, I LOVE it! He found this little beauty while cleaning his grandma's farmhouse. It's an antique copper fire extinguisher... which you probably can't really tell from the cropped photos. Sorry about that... they were the most interesting shots.

My family has learned if it's going to the thrift store, they might as well show me first... before I go there and buy it;) Thanks team!

Not sure how I want to display our newest treasure just yet, but I know it will be a great little addition to our evolving decor. It matches our living room color scheme quite nicely!

I am also in love with the vintage tag... so distressed and worn. It's the kind of thing scrapbookers like me LIVE for. (Perhaps a little over the top, I know... but I really do love it!!)

Thanks Danny and Grandma Johnson!

With Love,
L

Pennant Party Favor

Thought I'd post another one of my little circus creations! I'm particularly fond of this one. I think it would be a perfect favor for a circus-themed party or event. Sweet. Pretty. Simple... And totally on trend! Makes me happy:)

Enjoy!
L

Miss Mauri

Who said Tonka Trucks were only for little boys? Good thing her uncles had so many fun toys just waiting for someone to uncover and bring to life again! Lest you worry, I assure you she also loves dolls, ponies, and all-things-girly too;)

I've been re-listening to Conference, because I just wasn't ready for it to end. It seemed like everything was especially for me. I loved what Elder Oaks had to say about desires, and what Elder Bednar shared about light. I loved Elder Nelson's talk on faith, and Elder Scott's tender thoughts on love and marriage. I loved President Monson's inspired words on the blessings of the temple. Elder Cook's talk on the importance of women in the church brought me to tears. I could go on. The Lord truly spoke to me through his prophets.

I have lots of thoughts I'm tempted to share right now, but I think for the moment I'll continue pondering, listening, and learning.

With Love,
L

Be of Good Cheer

Last week it felt like Spring! Surprisingly, I woke up to a snowy white world on Sunday Morning. Despite the heavy wet snow, the little blossoms and flowers resiliently held their ground. Though wet and weighed down, they were beautiful. These delicate little blossoms stand as a reminder of the power of hope. 


Conference was such a joy for me. The words of our Latter Day Prophet and General Authorities strengthened and inspired me. 


 "I testify to you that our promised blessings are beyond measure. Though the storm clouds may gather, though the rains may pour down upon us, our knowledge of the gospel and our love of our Heavenly Father and of our Savior will comfort and sustain us and bring joy to our hearts as we walk uprightly and keep the commandments. There will be nothing in this world that can defeat us.

My beloved brothers and sisters, fear not. Be of good cheer. The future is as bright as your faith." President Thomas S. Monson

With Hope,

L

With Hope

Ready to soak up lots of inspiration and guidance watching General Conference this weekend. I seriously can't wait! It always comes right when I need it most! I kind of just want to hide away and soak it all up without any distractions competing for my attention. Can't wait to pull out a fresh journal, listen, ponder, and pray. I believe in modern day prophets. I believe in the restoration of the Gosple of Jesus Christ to our day. I believe in answers to prayers. I believe in hope through Jesus Christ. I have seen his hand in my life, and I know he loves me. Answers will come.

With Hope,
L