Hello January 2018!
I welcome your opportunities, your joy, your blessings, your happy memories + good health for myself, my family, my friends in real life, my friends that join me here on my blog and on social media. I embrace and welcome all of the good you have to offer each and every one of us and I celebrate the chance to do some good, to create some good and to feel some good. *wink*

Time for a new focus word and mine this year is....FREE.
And boy did I struggle for whatever reason to pick just the right word this year.
My word typically finds me without me searching.
Not this year.
Maybe because I knew it really needed to be a good one...
one with power...
but one that I would love to see written and spelled out...
because you know I love hand-lettered anything and I'm such a visual person.

(Heck! I even picked my children's names based on how it felt hand writing it out on a sheet of clean white paper). *wink*

But why the word "Free"?
I needed a word that represented an "unearthing" of sorts.
I needed a word that stood for "letting go", a "rebirth" AND an "elimination + purging" mindset.
A word that symbolized a "peeling away of layers".
A word that represented "healing".

I was searching for the perfect word to harness some beautiful energy for the journey ahead to rediscovering...and unburying...and reconnecting with the girl I once was.

Specifically to the girl who has buried her good health under layers of disappointment + shame, to be completely honest.
As I recently wrote in my journal, "I've been storing food reserves for a very long winter apparently." - lol  And this needs to stop. Self care is my number one this year. Period.
Everything else is secondary.
Essentially, if I can get a handle on my overall health everything else will see improvement.
I've played the victim to my own insecurities and unfortunately allowed myself to become a prisoner in my own body; a prisoner to my fears. A prisoner to my doubt. A prisoner to lies I had convinced myself to be truth.

I need to break out of the prison and be FREE!
I can visually see it in my mind.
I can see the girl I once was...the one I left behind. I'm looking at her. She's looking at me. Our eyes have locked and I am running fiercely to meet her; To grab her hand and continue the journey together;  To remind her I haven't forgotten her. I have NOT left her behind. I am back.

I'm running back to rescue the girl who's optimistic, cheerful, trusting heart has been crushed by life experiences.

I'm sprinting through the wide open prairie to wear she is standing and has been waiting for me to return. I can see this vividly in my mind. I cannot let her down. I cannot leave her standing there anymore. And I know when I reach her...I will not have rescued her....she will have rescued me.

Can you feel the passion in my words?  I hope so...because I can feel it in my fingertips as I type.

A spent hours upon hours looking up words that might be the word I was looking for!

Tend, restore, pure, clean, cleanse, reclaim, shift, return, reset, refresh, rebuild, dig, peel, chip, core, shed, center, root, foundation, excavate, create, carve, mold, chisel, unveil, beauty, unmask, claw, fight, war, take back, unbury, raw, stripped...and well.

I had convinced myself that my word was "well"! 

Then I changed it to "grit"!

And then I ended up at "free"!

"Well" was so awesome in so many ways but ultimately I decided it was too "soft".

So I then I did a 360 and chose "grit" which was a super tough and energizing word...but not "pretty" and appealing to me visually.

And then "FREE"....defined as:

No longer confined.

Not a slave.

Unimpeded.

Of power + energy.

Not bound.

Not subject to or constrained by.

Unrestrained.

Uninhibited.

Release from physical obstruction, restraint or entanglement.

Remove something undesirable.

BINGO!! That's it. 

It's an action word.

It's definition touches on everything I'm focusing on.

And it's aesthetically pleasing to my eye. *wink*

From my journal, "Free. That's nice on the ears and eyes and it touches on my 3 H's:

HEALTH + HEART + HOME"

HEALTH - free from my physical prison - aka fat layers + less than desirable level of health

HEART - free from guilt, pain, hardness, numbness

HOME - free up space in my life by continuing to simplify, declutter + getting rid of things.

I know that was a lot to read and take in.

I'll finish with this last sentence...

From my journal: "This year ahead is going to be really hard physically AND emotionally because of the awesomeness I'm looking to uncover within myself." 

Yes!! Amen to that! And if you are looking to uncover your awesomeness too perhaps choosing a word might be something to help motivate you!

If you do the whole choosing a word thing each year and are looking to uncover your awesomeness too, I hope you have found one to keep you energized.

And if you've never tried it...I highly recommend it. Tip: Choose a verb. It's got more power behind it. More action. And that's what choosing a word is about!

xoxo,

Jess

KEEPiNG iT REAL

I'm definitely going to have to come back to this post and read it when I need a boost of energy and will power. Writing this has pumped me up all over again!!

I've added exercise into my life 2-3 days a week and have been eating so much better for the month of January. I'm a little behind in some goals I set for myself but writing this post has given me some renewed energy to make it happen. 

iNSPiRE | A new adventure...

In a world where technology has the tendency to dehumanize our communication, our work, our relationships, our connections, our creativity and our overall life experiences, I'm finding myself choosing more and more of what makes me "feel"...

my original quote posted three years ago on Instagram

By that I mean I'm choosing things that uplift, inspire, touch, add joy to and give more meaning to the lives of those around me...and to myself.

Just like this sign says, I've been looking for ways to have my cake and eat it too and I finally decided it was up to me to put on my big girl apron and bake the darn thing!

My work has been shifting in small ways over the past couple of years...intentionally...pointing me in the direction of less time in front of the computer.

I've longed to do more hand-crafted projects that would marry my love of graphic design with my desire to give more life to the inspirational quotes I've been posting regularly on my Instagram feed. This desire, (along with some other life stuff), has given way to a new business adventure with my daughter, Ema.

Let me introduce you to the brand new...

Willow + Wildflowers Market

This little creative division of Pen + Paper Flowers was something I started to dream about two years ago and just hasn't left me alone since.  Earlier this year I reached out to a couple of friends to run my ideas by them. I definitely had hesitation, especially with the signs, since I have friends that make signs already and I didn't want to come across as a copy cat.

However, one friend, in particular, pointed out what a natural transition all of this was.  And that's how my heart felt too. Using my graphic design talents to create handmade items that will add warmth and charm to any home seems to be the perfect extension to what I already do and love.

So...as much as I love the idea of having a cute storefront somewhere, I also know the long demanding hours something like that requires and I did not want to take more time away from my family.

I'm not really interested in another online store either. The purpose of Willow + Wildflowers Market is to get me out of the house and interacting with people in my community on top of getting me out from in front of the computer.

Insert Trader Mae's, a local furniture and decor market. 
My daughter and I are renting a small space to display the items we make and aside from restocking and keeping the space pretty, we don't even have to be up there.

Right now, (and by right now, I mean we literally just opened this past Saturday), we are doing hand-painted wooden signs. My goal is to eventually offer a line of pillows along with some signature homemade linen sprays I've been making for our own home.

The goal here is to keep things simple. Simple signs, simple pillows and simple linen sprays. That's it.

Willow + Wildflowers Market is a line of home decor items that I would personally have displayed in my own home. So yes, there are a lot of "nods" to my love for baking and my vintage farmhouse style.

Each piece is cut, sanded, painted, stained and hand-painted by Ema and I.
We didn't know what we were doing when we started. We just started.

Sometimes you just have to jump...and we did.

The "Love is always the Answer" sign above is the first sign to have sold. (thanks Mom)! *wink*
I have no idea what will become of Willow + Wildflowers Market or where this will take us.
What I do know is this is an opportunity to strengthen my relationship with one of my daughters as we work side-by-side. And it feels good.

It also feels good to have a paintbrush in my hands again...creating the small details of these signs. There's just something extra special about something handmade. And to think these signs will be hanging in the homes of people in my community...well that's just pretty special too.

I'd love to know what you all think of the signs!!
But more importantly, I'm wondering if you've been feeling the same way about technology and the influence it's having on the maker community.  I'd love to hear your thoughts and creative things you've been doing to step away from all of your devices.

If you love what you see and want to see more, follow the Willow + Wildflowers Instagram feed for behind-the-scenes sneak peeks of new items and our process for making these.

As always, thanks for being part of my journey...
xoxo,
Jess

KEEPiNG iT REAL
Ema and I literally had one sign made when we were surprised with a phone call on Monday evening that we had an official space at Trader Mae's if we wanted it. We spent the next 4 days painting and creating 8 signs to have up just in time for the big Fall Festival on Saturday and Sunday. Eeks!

iNSPiRE | Garden Inspiration

(photo source)

I've been "growing" an herb collection this Summer, friends!
I'm so proud of myself...except for the fact that everything is in a complete wilt right now with some of the plants yellowing. *covering my eyes*

I have been obsessing over the idea of creating a Potting Station for the back porch. (Isn't the one above just dreamy)?

I have really been trying to step up my game with caring for plants and flowers around my home. So far my results are shameful but nonetheless...I've started an "All Things Garden" Pinterest board to keep me inspired. I thought there might be a few of you out there who might enjoy some garden inspiration too...

This looks fun! And would also make a charming gift idea!

I'm totally trying it!!

I shared this photo on Instagram because I was inspired by the fact that @michelle_janeen makes a habit of bringing in her floral clippings and branches inside her home.

Which then inspired me to wrestle with my bougainvillea bush, (I've got scratches from the unforgiving thorns to prove it), to bring some pretty branches and blooms inside to display on my kitchen windowsill. (I shared this photo on my Instagram too).

This collection of old watering cans is a brilliant idea for dressing up your garden space.

(This was actually part of a chicken coop...hence the chicken shown in the photo). So cool, right?

Although my "All Things Garden" Pinterest board is a bit sparse right now...I intend on adding more and more to it so I hope you'll follow along and be inspired as I'm inspired!

Happy Monday, friends!
xoxo,
Jess

KEEPiNG iT REAL
Ella is home sick today...making this her first official "sick" day of Second grade. Boo!
She tossed her cookies last night after eating at Grandma + Grandpa's house.
I'm pretty sure it was a combination of an afternoon filled with cotton candy, water slides, sno cones, food truck food and the torturous Florida Summer heat + sun that probably dehydrated her. *frown*

iNSPiRE | Slow Down

CLICK HERE to Watch this video...

It's for all the mamas out there feeling their heartstrings being tugged on as we say goodbye to the Summer of 2016 with our kiddos and hello to a new school year! Or for any mama out there feeling the feels only us mamas feel. *wink*

Love you all...
Jessica

P.S. Thanks for sharing this with me Allison!!

KEEPiNG iT REAL
I never want Summer to end...and of course, it always does. *frown*
P.S. The song is "Slow Down" by Nichole Norman

iNSPiRE | Our Story is My Favorite Love Story Art Print

a Pen + Paper Flowers original quote - please do not copy!

Good morning friends!!
Valentine's Day is on our heels and I'm way behind in my preparations, how about you?
If you are scrambling to come up with something, and you missed me mentioning the "Our Story is my Favorite Love Story" art print, it might just be the missing detail for your special day. You can print + frame this to give to the love(s) of your life - including your kiddos. 
Toss in some candy or flowers and I'd say you are good to go!!

DOWNLOAD THE ART PRINT HERE - comes in three sizes!

I pinky promise to share with you the cute Valentine's Day ideas I have TOMORROW!!
(one of which is a FREE printable I'm using for Ella's 1st grade Valentine Exchange on Friday).

KEEPiNG iT REAL
Pretty sure I'll be "MINC-ing" this art print and using it as part of my master bedroom makeover.
P.S. I think the meds are starting to kick in but I completely lost ALL steam after yesterday's post!!
P.P.S. I answered your questions about Pens and Gold Foiling...just in case you missed it! *wink*

iNSPiRE | Savor the Sweetness of New Beginnings

Holy wow! It's almost the end of January and it's just crazy to me to think we've just about wrapped up the first month of 2016. Weren't we just tossing confetti and clinking the bubbly for New Year's Eve? 

Anyway, I designed this macaron art print as a reminder of how wonderful, fresh and SWEET new beginnings can be. And they don't just count in January. You can make a new beginning ANY time you need to. So...if you've gotten off track or want to improve an area of your life START TODAY!

Have a wonderful day my friends!!
xoxo,
Jessica

P.S. Email subscribers received this FREE art print and the coordinating digital wallpapers earlier this week! If you missed out because you haven't subscribed yet, you can SIGN UP HERE! I'll be sharing some free Valentine's Day goodies including another exclusive download soon! So sign up and stay tuned!!

KEEPiNG iT REAL
My hopes are to finish painting the master bedroom this weekend. J said he'll help me this time.
I'll keep you posted over the weekend on my Instagram feed.

iNSPiRE | One Little Word for 2016

A photo posted by Jessica | Pen + Paper Flowers (@pnpflowers) on Dec 31, 2015 at 8:35pm PST

Happy New Year,  friends!!!
It's that time of year for resolutions, promises, goals, dreams, motivation, changes...right?!

Well instead of getting all wrapped up and overwhelmed in all of that, I'm focusing on my one little word for 2016...

less.

Yep! That's it. That's my word!
A word that in actuality encompasses all of those before-mentioned things but in a nice, tidy, simple little package. 

It sounds pretty wimpy and unglamorous, doesn't it?
Don't be fooled though.
There's a lot of power that can come from that little word and I'm expecting big things!
I'm figuring that by focusing on the word "less" in all areas of my life...
I will actually end up with "more".
More of what really matters.

less clutter - more clarity
less distractions - more focus on my family
less sugar - more sustained energy, health + vitality
less comparisons - more creativity
less time in the studio - more focus during business hours
less procrastination - more productivity
less social media - more time blogging...because that's what I love!
less second guessing - more confidence
less fear - more faith
less time in my head - more time in my world *wink*
less excuses - more doing

And there's more I could share but I'm keeping it "less" today. *wink*

I was led to choose "less" by this blog post I read from Emily Ley.

And then I realized, as I typically do with all of my words each year, I've been on a journey towards this word over the last year.  Funny how things work out like that.

I've slowly been gravitating towards a much more simple life with regards to home decor, eating, work load + just taking time to smell the roses.

I'm really excited to watch the powerful changes I anticipate will unfold over the course of this year.

With that said, I've decided it would be fun to share a weekly update on how + what I'm doing with my word so you can watch my progress and cheer me on. I do hope you'll cheer me on! *smiling*

I'll pop in later this week to fill you in on the magic that's already taken place from this simple little word...and it's only Day 4 of 2016.

If you are new to the concept of choosing "one little word" and want to know more...or if you are curious as to what my past words have been, here are a few different links...

2015 - Shine
2014  Navigate
2013 Push
2012 no word - I was lame and didn't pick one...*blushing*
2011 Fresh

I'd love to hear what YOUR word for 2016 is!!
Share it in the comments!
I'll pick someone at random to send something special to.

Here's to less...so we can all have more! More of what matters!

xoxo,
Jessica

KEEPiNG iT REAL
Speaking of "what matters"...after a chest x-ray today it's been determined Ella has bronchitis. Boo!
She's been sick for the last week with a nagging cough and after a week of meds and no real improvement I took her back into the doctor today!

Lucky her though...she and Ema built a blanket fort just before New Year's Eve and she got to sleep in it for 3 nights in a row! She thought that was pretty awesome! I finally had her take it down last night so we could have some semblance of order back in the living room. Although she was definitely disappointed to have to take it down, I've promised to have a "sleepover" with her on Friday so we'll be setting up the fort again and this time I'll be sleeping in it with her. *wink*

FREE | Curiosity Crumbs Art Print

As we head into the weekend I wanted to share something with you for those of you who didn't see this on my Instagram feed. (by the way...would love to have you follow me since I post pretty regularly over there).

This art print was inspired by a podcast I listened to on the Jess C. Lively Show with writer, Elizabeth Gilbert. One of the very last things Elizabeth Gilbert said in the podcast was this:

"The curiosity channel is where God sprinkles the breadcrumbs on the great trail to find ourselves."

I loved it so much I decided to create a hand-lettered reminder.
And now I'm sharing it with all of you!!
You can download it for FREE right here!!

I hope you love it!!
Stay curious, friends...and enjoy your weekend!!

xoxo

KEEPiNG iT REAL
Don't laugh...but when I originally posted this on Instagram I spelled curiosity wrong!
I fixed it for you but honestly would have never realized it if a follower had not requested this as an art print!! Which is how it ended up here on the blog! Oops!! *blushing*

LiFE | Pink Magic

The other morning, I let my dog out of the back door to do his usual routine potty break.
I stood there for a minute, like I usually do, and surveyed the backyard.
I took in the areas of grass that look pitiful, the overgrown koi pond I've been wanting to replace with a fire pit (for 3 years now) and I also just listened to the wind for a minute as it gently rustled the dense forest of trees just beyond our property line.

I stood there lost in another world until I caught a glimpse of the pitiful rose bush to my left that has been neglected through the years and yet still produces a rose or two every now and then - for no good reason. Except of course to remind me it's still alive and barely breathing - no thanks to me.

There it was. A single bloom. Staring back at me.
I had actually seen it the morning before but didn't give it much thought. Today, however, I decided to make my way over to it while Hamilton finished his business.

The roses from this bush are always the most beautiful pale pink and as with all roses, the petals are soft and plush. I leaned into the single rose, closed my eyes and took a very slow, intentional, deep breath in.

I paused...surprised at how beautiful it smelled and how the scent seemed to instantly calm my mind and spirit. Keeping my eyes closed...I did it again, breathing in everything the rose could possibly give me while letting everything else in my mind go.

It's almost as if I had to confirm my initial experience by repeating the process because I almost didn't believe it. How in the world did I find myself in the middle of something so spiritual...from something so ordinary. Whatever the reason, it was exactly what I needed although I hadn't a clue I was even looking for it.

It was a very eye-opening moment for me despite my eyes being closed.
I finally understood with absolute clarity what it actually means to "Take time to smell the roses."

I thought I'd already had this figured out a few years prior when I had an epiphany about the importance of simply taking time to look at them and smell them and even clip them instead of just walking past them.

However, that little epiphany didn't even compare to what spoke to my heart and soul on this particular day. Unsuspectingly, when I closed my eyes and breathed deeply in...
I was fully in the present moment; A moment that seems quite elusive in my life - and I know for many of us.

It was just me and that rose...
and when I closed my eyes I was able to shut everything else out except for the healing that came from the smell that filled every nook and cranny of my withered soul.

Parenting struggles, health concerns, life challenges to name a few - they've taken their toll on me over the last several months and it's been exhausting.

As magical as that moment was...there's something even better?
I've since been able to recreate the experience each time I'm lucky enough to find a bloom or two on the bush. It was not a chance moment never to be repeated. It's actually a place of recurring opportunity. How awesome is that!!??

It's something I wish I could bottle up and keep with me in my pocket so I don't have to wait for new blooms to transport me to that place. I would totally send a bottle to each of you as well.

And yet I think that's where the significance of it really comes into play.
Each rose represents a fleeting moment in life.
Will I take advantage of the moment while it's there right in front of me and breathe it all in?
Or will I allow life to be so busy that I miss it?

The next opportunity you have...I hope you'll find a fragrant rose,
close your eyes, quiet your mind and breathe in slowly and deeply.
There's something very magical about it...something uniquely spiritual.
I finally get it now.

What are ways you keep yourself grounded? Connected? Spiritually fed?
Share your magic. I'd love to hear.

KEEPiNG iT REAL
Look...I've smelled roses before and honestly, it's not my favorite scent.
In fact, I avoid anything "rose" scented in candle or potpourri form because it always seems a bit musty and old to me.

BUT....I'm telling you...I've been smelling all of the wrong roses.
This. rose. bush. is. different.
These types of roses do not smell like any other rose I've smelled.
I didn't even realize roses could smell this pretty and after some research, I've since discovered there are all sorts of fragrances for all of the different varieties of roses out there.
I'm currently in the process of putting my feeders out there to find out the name of this specific variety and I promise to post it here when I do! For now, we're just going to refer to it as "Pink Magic". *wink*

iNSPiRE | Pumpkin Everything

French Bohemian pumpkins from Cloth and Patina

You guys!! I have been a pumpkin pinning crazed lunatic over the last two weeks!

You should TOTALLY go check out all of the DIY ideas, recipes, crafts and all-things-pumpkin on my PUMPKIN EVERYTHING pinterest board. I've been so inspired! You'll be inspired too!! I "pumpkin promise"!! *wink*

Aside from the charming pumpkins shown in the first photo from my friend Tammy, here are just a few more favorites I think will entice you even more to take a peek at my PUMPKIN EVERYTHING PINTEREST BOARD.

DIY Cornhusk Pumpkins

I love this idea. Use a dollar store pumpkin and cover them with cornhusks!

Ties nicely into my creamy white, rustic decor!! Love the moss accents too!

Pumpkin Chocolate Salted Caramel Cake

Okay. Holy cow! How did someone manage to squeeze everything I love into one cake:

Pumpkin, chocolate, salted caramel and cream cheese frosting! Stop it!!!

Pumpkin Cheesecake Cookies

These look amazing! They are supposed to be EASY too!

 Pumpkin Praline Trifle

Layers of pumpkin, vanilla pudding and praline crumble goodness...yes please!

Pumpkin Smores Cupcakes

I cannot even read this post because it's in another language

but I'm still completely smitten with the presentation and the idea of making these!!

Easiest + Prettiest Pumpkin Centerpieces Ever

Just wrap your white pumpkins with some bittersweet and call it done. I'm doing this!!

Stacked Pumpkins Decor

Simple concept here. And I love the addition of straw between each pumpkin for some added texture.

DIY Vintage Farmhouse Pumpkin

From yours truly - remember this DIY from a few years back?

STILL love it! Who would've thought something so cute could be made from mason jar bands?

Pumpkin Milkshakes

Don't forget the delicious pumpkin milkshakes I posted!! They are must-try this season!!

You haven't even seen the DIY Sweater Pumpkins, Pumpkin Spice Latte Donuts, Pumpkin Pie Pop-Tarts, Floral Moon Pumpkin, No-Carve DIY Balloon Dipped Pumpkins, Pumpkin Snickerdoodles and so many more FUN pumpkin ideas and recipes. May as well just follow my Pumpkin Everything board - there's no end in sight at this point to what I'll be pinning next. *wink*

Stay tuned for the scoop on the Pumpkin Bars and Kahlua + Cream cupcakes from the Spiders + Spirits themed dessert table. PLUS...I'll be sharing the chalkboard signage I used as well! Don't miss it!!

KEEPiNG it REAL

You would absolutely fall over in your boots if you saw the state of my studio right now. I've fallen a couple of times myself, tripping over things. Ha! It's still a disaster from the recent Tuesday Morning project...and to be completely honest, that was just the icing on the cake. It was messy prior to that. I must clean up the chaos that is my life right now!

iNSPiRE | Support + Celebrate :: The Fringe Hours Book

The other day I was reading from The Fringe Hours by Jessica N. Turner and I was deep into the section about comparison and how toxic it can be...if you allow it.

I felt moved to share my thoughts with you about this subject and I hope you'll weigh in on the topic because I'd love your feedback!!

This concept of falling prey to comparison isn't new to me, in fact, after discovering how profound of an impact playing the comparison game can have on my own life, I'd like to say I do a pretty good job at keeping myself benched. *wink*

With that said, we are all broken. We are all imperfect. And we can all easily find ourselves behind the wheel of what I call the Comparison Clunker.

There are the "Pinterest Potholes" that leave us feeling deflated, the social media traffic jams filled with all things shiny + faster + better that leave us feeling out of gas and then there's the "race to the finish" mindset of our society that causes us to grip the steering wheel so tightly that we often spin out of control and end up finding ourselves wrecked on the side of the road...helplessly watching the rest of the world speed by.

It can really feel that way...IF we let it.

Here are some paraphrased excerpts that really drive home this point from the The Fringe Hours book:
• Comparison is doing just as much damage as guilt can often do to a woman.
• Comparison can eat away at us, distract us from our blessings and our need for self-care.
• We see others who seem to be doing it all and have it all with what looks like little effort, so we think that is what our lives should look like as well.
• On social media, comparison is a catalyst for nagging feelings of disappointment, discontentment, frustration, and self-doubt. 
• Pinterest cannot be your yardstick for who you are as a woman, what you should love, how you should cook, or what you should prioritize. It cannot be your yardstick for good parenting, thoughtfulness, or really anything in life.

That's good stuff right there!! Am I right?!

So how do we kick the Comparison Clunker to the curb?
The first thing Jessica N. Turner suggests is eliminating judgment....

She asks:
"Have you ever looked at another woman and judged something about her? Maybe it was the fact that she brought a store-bought dessert to the church potluck while everyone else brought homemade. Or maybe you judged a woman because you didn't feel like she was dressed appropriately. Or because you disagreed with the way she parented her children."

For me, I've come to the conclusion that judgment is often the act of deflecting our own ridiculous expectations + standards onto unsuspecting, innocent bystanders. 

I shamefully admit I am guilty of this - not 100% of the time but most certainly more often than I care to admit. 

Some of Turner's suggestions for overcoming judgment is:

1. Finding and recognizing the root of your judgment.

Once you've been able to determine the true emotion, (envy, dissastifaction, etc.), behind the judgment you are more likely to take a step back, turn the initial judgment into something different...something positive and perhaps be inspired to take the time to get to know the person and their story...which will lead to acceptance...and ultimately love.

2. Trading judgment for celebration. 

I have to tell you, I immediately thought..."Oh I can do that...I already do that." And there are plently of women out there I know who do it as well. But then I took a minute, from a personal perspective, to dive deeper into what "celebrating others" should really LOOK like and more importantly what it should FEEL like.

Ask yourself this the next time someone you know, admire or follow on social media posts or shares something exciting about something they've accomplished and are proud of.
• Do you jump right up and offer them praise and support?  Or do you pause?
• Do you "like" their post immediately and leave an encouraging comment?
  Or do you scroll past and then scroll back up after the guilt sets in?

"Liking" or "commenting" can LOOK as though you are celebrating that person...BUT are you really?

Are you actually applauding her success from a place of judgment? For instance, are you happy she's successful but are you quietly reveling in the regrets you think and perhaps even hope she'll have eventually because she must surely be sacrificing one aspect of her life, in one way or another, to be as successful as she is. (her family, her children, her health, her identity, her authenticity),

Do you look like her cheerleader but then find yourself judging her creativity, styling, home decor picks, baking, handwriting, art, parental decisions, hair style, weight, shoes, clothing, etc.?

The way you FEEL - what's coming from your heart - and the driving force behind your celebration of another person's successes are even more important than the act of you celebrating with that person.

Will you be superficial?
Or will you be sincere?

I have to tell you, from personal experience, I have been on both sides of the coin.
I have had superficial support from people I thought were my friends - & that feels pretty crappy.
I've also had sincere support - which  feels WAY better and feels noticeably different.

I think we all know when we are GETTING superficial and when we are GIVING it too.

With all of this weighing heavy on my mind...I've decided to really make this "Support + Celebrate - with sincerity" something I'm doing and thinking about on a more consistent basis.
If I feel judgment more than I feel genuine...I plan to correct that...immediately.

I'd love to hear what you think about the subject of comparison and your own experience with it.

I'm loving The Fringe Hours book and highly recommend it.
It's been very thought-provoking and inspiring.

"The Fringe Hours is not a book about doing more....it's a book about empowering women to do more for themselves so they can BE more...more creative, more fulfilled, more alive." - Jessica Turner

xoxo -  my sweet friends!!

KEEPiNG iT REAL
This post was written and has been sitting for over 2 weeks.
Various projects, life and some challenges have kept me away from the blog.
I'm so glad I came back to it today because I needed to hear this all over again.
I feel so inspired...I hope you do too!!

INSPIRE | Worry pretends to be necessary

I couldn't have said it better myself, Eckhart Tolle, and I couldn't agree with this more.
However, I've also learned it's much easier to roll in the worry and soften it a bit when you aren't in a situation that is worrisome.

My such situation was last week when I had a routine checkup on Tuesday that ended up sending me for an unexpected ultrasound. (this was the same week as the Christmas Brunch that almost didn't happen). Yeah. Crazy week for sure.

Well today...I'm celebrating.
A phone call today confirming negative test results have brought me much relief + gratitude to say the least.

For those of you who were already aware of the situation when I posted a little something about it on my Instagram feed and have been sending cyber hugs, love, support + prayers...THANK YOU!!

If you are going through a similar situation or know someone who is...
I thought you might enjoy this reminder.

Here's a link to the FREE "Worry Pretends to Be Necessary" Art Print...
formatted to print onto an 8.5 x 11 sheet of paper or card stock.

And here's a fun creative idea!
Run it through your Heidi Swapp MINC machine and gold foil it for an extra "wow" factor!!
I've already got my eyes on the MINC mini for smaller projects...SO cute!!

KEEPiNG iT REAL
J was never worried...not even for a second.
And that's why he's my rock.
And how did I celebrate today?
I stopped and treated myself to cupcakes.
...which J would highly disapprove of. *wink*

BOOK CLUB | July Selection :: One Good Deed A Day

Have you all been waiting on pins and needles for the July book pick?

With all of the life lemons I've been dealing with in these first 3 weeks of Summer, I'm even more grateful for the One Good Deed A Day book I picked out for the PNPF Book Club selection for July! I think it's going to be the perfect way to shift my focus from my own struggles + challenges to instead finding ways to add some sunshine to someone else's life.

I actually shared this book on my blog a couple of years ago and even did a giveaway.
Well...a couple of months ago I had a reader, who had won a copy, mention how much she and her daughter still love the book! My heart was touched and also a LIGHTBULB went off in my head!! It was then I was inspired to add it to the PNPF Book Club this year.

It's a darling book filled with daily prompts + ideas for how to do something nice for someone else.
They are super easy things like "holding the door for someone" or there are things that take a little more thought + planning  but all in all you just pick and choose what you want to do and then journal a little something about how it made you feel or even just a jot down the date you did your kind deed.

Ella doesn't know it yet but it's going to be our little Summer project.
Some things will be focused on our own little family.
Other things will involve neighhbors, friends and even a few strangers.
Looking forward to spreading a little light + love to others this Summer.
Will you join me?

You can order the One Good Deed A Day book from Amazon 
or you can win one by simply leaving a comment here on the blog.

Just tell me what one of your very favorite kind deeds is that you enjoy doing or have done for someone in the past that really left you feeling light on your feet and joy in your heart.

I'll pick a winner on Friday, July 3rd and announce it here on the blog so as to send you off into your long holiday weekend celebrating!! *wink*

If you have trouble leaving a comment please email me at pnpflowersinc AT gmail DOT com
Some readers have had issues with leaving blog comments and I've not been able to get down to the bottom or WHY...so maybe you all can help me figure that at!

If you've missed the previous PNPF Book Club Selections and are curious as to what we've been reading, you can click on THIS LINK or tap the link at the top of the page that says BOOK CLUB.
Love to you all!!
xoxo


KEEPiNG iT REAL
Although I'm late on announcing my pick - I typically try to give you all a heads-up by the 15th of each month, this book is actually intended to be used the entire rest of the Summer months. (or maybe for you it'll be for the rest of the year. - it's your call because that's how the whole guilt-free PNPF Book Club thing works. Read more here if you'd like to join in on the fun each month!!

INSPIRE | A Fruitful Summer :: Lara Casey

 

I'm participating in something really beautiful this Summer...
something uplifting...
something inspiring...
and frankly, something I NEED!

I'm thinking there are some of you out there who just might benefit from participating in this too!

A Fruitful Summer - by Lara Casey

Do you remember me mentioning Lara Casey before...
when I introduced you to the Lara Casey Power Sheets?

Well, Lara Casey's "A Fruitful Summer" series is a 5-week guide to "stronger friendships, joyful connections + new adventures!" 

It's FREE and all you do is sign-up online (BEFORE WEDNESDAY, JUNE 10TH) and you'll receive a beautiful .pdf guide, cute printable checklists + FREE Summer Art Prints.

Read more about the purpose + inspiration behind this Fruitful Summer Series RIGHT HERE!

So what do you say?
Are you ready to make your Summer fruitful?
I really hope you'll join me.
There's nothing to lose and so very much to gain!!

xoxo,
Jessica

KEEPiNG iT REAL
I'm excited about doing this...
and a little uncomfortable at the same time.
I'm sad to say it's been YEARS since I've focused on friendships.
Some of the reasons stem from the busyness of life, a small business + kids.
But truthfully, much of the reason includes pain + hurt from past friendships
AND not having the energy or desire to cultivate friendships due to
my own insecurities with regards to how messy my life has been through the years.
One thing I've come to know...
It's by pushing past fear and awkwardness that REAL transformation occurs.
And I'm ready.

BOOK CLUB | June Selection :: "Find Your Happy" Book + Giveaway

June's PNPF Book Club selection, "Find Your Happy", was inspired by the fact that the month of June marks the 1/2 way point of the year. Yeah. Can you believe we are almost there?

Anyway...I really felt like this would be the perfect book to kind of get re-motivated about the goals + dreams we were all gung ho about at the beginning of the year.

"The path you're on this very moment is going somewhere good."

This book is filled with powerful, thought-provoking words that are sure to energize us and motivate us.

And let's face it...
isn't that the ultimate goal for us all...to "Find your Happy"?

You can order the Find Your Happy book by M.H. Clark right now to make sure you have it by June 1st. OR...you can take your chances and win a copy here on the blog!!

That's right, the wonderful folks at Compendium are offering up three copies to three lucky PNPF readers this month. Enter below.

Points = entries. More points = more entries.
Choose only one option or choose ALL of the options to earn points. The more options you select the more number of times your name goes into the hat!! 

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Winners will be notified via email + names announced on the widget above when selected.

I hope you are enjoying the book selection for May!
It's a beautiful little book and something you can keep out on the coffee table too!

If you are new to the PNPF Book Club read all about how you can jump right in any time and the inspiration behind the easy-read, inspirational selections each month.

Have a beautiful weekend, friends.
See you back here next week!

KEEPiNG iT REAL
The exterior of our home is being painted as I type this blog post.
It looks SO different already and it's only been primed with some of the trim work painted.
Looking forward to sharing the before and after pictures.

iNSPiRE | Be Bold • Be Brave • Begin

Sometimes that's all it takes...
a start...
a step...
a beginning...
with boldness and bravery on each arm.

I shared this BE BOLD, BE BRAVE, BEGIN Art Print on my Instagram feed this morning.
I wrote it and designed it after some inspirational reading I did from a book I recently ordered called "31 Days of Prayer for the Dreamer and the Doer".  As the title suggests...it's a collection of  simple but thoughtful prayers written by a variety of creatives looking to uplift, inspire and guide the "dreamer" and the "doer" in each of us. (One of those creatives is actually a beautiful friend of mine...Aedriel Moxley).

If you are searching to bring added "purpose" to your work and to create with more "intention", this might enjoy this. The "31 Days of Prayer for the Dreamer and the Doer" book is great on it's own but there is even The Dreamer and The Doer Journal that coordinates with it.

This could have easily been a PNPF Book Club selection.
There's just not enough months in the year to share with you all of the may inspiring books I come across.

Have a beautiful day, friends!
xoxo

KEEPiNG iT REAL
I am in SUCH a freaking funk.
Whenever there is very little sunshine and there is cold air knocking outside my window...I struggle.
I don't know how all of you people who live in the North...surrounded by the frigid cold temperatures and snow for extended periods of time can keep it together. I am in awe of you! *wink*