2013 Memory Jar

I worked on a quick project this weekend.  I've seen these "2013 Memory Jars" throughout blogland and Pinterest.  I have seen a number of sizes and varieties - some simple and some really elaborate.  I actually took my inspiration from the Ann Taylor facebook page (go figure).  The purpose of the memory jar is to document memories throughout the year so at the end of the year you can reflect on all the memories created.   

I stuck to a more simple aesthetic:

[click to enlarge]

 I found an empty jar in my craft room and added some embellishments: 

a chalkboard label  

and a burlap flower

Then I pulled out my Cricut machine and started cutting some tags on scrapbook paper:

I used a "tag" setting from my Christmas cartridge.  I thought that would look cuter than a just a plain piece of paper or recipe card:   

Then I wrote my first "memory" and placed it in the jar:

All done! 

My memory jar sits on the entrance way table where it is easily accessible.  Sweetheart noticed it right away and asked me about it. He loved the concept.  I told him he can contribute to the memory writing whenever he wants -- but I know he won't.  :)

I look forward to seeing the jar fill up with memories as the year moves on.  

A Treat..

I couldn't resist.  I went shopping with my sister and my cousin this past weekend.   Sweetheart bought me two handbags for my birthday in November so the last thing I needed was another one.  But I just couldn't resist.  I fell in love with it when I saw it.   It's khaki PVC fabric (so it can be wiped down if it gets soiled) with orange patent leather trim.  It's the perfect size tote -- it's not too big and not too small -- I can fit my iPad in it along with the rest of my "must have's".  

She's a beauty, right? 

*swoon*

Happy New Year~!

Happy 2013!

Sweetheart and I spent our NYE at home with the puppies.  We watched three movies on Netflix and then at about 10 minutes till midnight we tuned into Dick Clark's New Year's Eve and watched the ball drop.We counted down the seconds and greeted 2013 with a champagne toast and a kiss! 

This morning I woke up and fixed breakfast for us.  I made a spinach, mushroom, cheese and green chili frittata.  I'm getting pretty good at making them.  

Afterwards, I got busy on two projects.  The first was an easy one.  I printed some subway art and decorated my shelf:

I was excited about working on the next project.  Sweetheart bought me a "magnet board" from Hallmark for my birthday.   They sell seasonal magnets and decorations for the board in their stores.  When I first saw it I wasn't too sure that I would like it.  It's a big, black piece of metal.  Once, I understood how it worked, I was excited about placement and then my mind raced with ideas for future holidays.  The plan is to change it out for every holiday/month of the year.  And although I can go to Hallmark to purchase the magnets for each season, I thought it might be fun to DIY.  

For January, I made a trip to Hobby Lobby and bought some numbers, paint and a couple of embellishments.  This morning, I got busy painting the numbers:

This was my end result:

(click on picture to enlarge)

The numbers have gem embellishments that are hard to see in the picture.  I put magnets on the letters, cloth flowers and on the gem dots.  I also filled the frame above it with some subway art.  I then grabbed three pictures and positioned them on the board using the gem dots. 

The board sits in the entrance way (ignore the alarm pad) so it was very difficult to get a good picture of it.  It sits up high and looks great as you enter the house. 

Not too bad for an amateur!

I went to Target yesterday to pick up a few things and naturally quickly scanned the clearance shelves.  I found these tealight holders on clearance for $2.48.  They are really cute.  The silver tealight holder sits inside of the glass cylinder -- reminds me of a mini hurricane.  

Sweetheart and I are looking forward to another great year!