TEN CREATIVES TO FOLLOW ON INSTAGRAM

]TEN CREATIVES TO FOLLOW ON INSTAGRAM:

1. Sophie Treppendahl // If I won the lottery tomorrow, I'd immediately commission a piece by Treppendahl. It would include my trusty Breton-striped shirt for obvious reasons. This series by Sophie is my personal fave!
2. Sami Cronk // Thanks to the Quirk Gallery in Richmond, I was introduced to Cronk's feed. You could say she had me at HELLO when she featured artwork that included Trader Joe's Peonies in a plastic cup from McDonald's. How could something this simple turn into a piece of art so cheeky and striking?! Gimme more of that.
3. Sarah Boyts Yoder // Seeing Sarah's work in person is definitely on my bucket list (she's from VA, so it's bound to happen!). Her abstract collage style has evolved since I began following her a few years ago, in addition to the techniques she uses to create her mixed media paintings. I love when she shares a glimpse of the process.
4. Ali Nelson // A champion of mental health and cheerleader of introspection, Ali shares lessons learned and then makes them into a beautiful background so you can save it to your phone for whenever you might need it.
5. Jordan Sondler // Take a gander at Jordan's feed and it feels like someone got inside my head and started doodling all my thoughts and emotions. It's equal parts gratifying and creepy (but in the most adorable way!).
6. Laurie Fisher // The sight of Fisher's artwork grouped together in her studio can take any "meh" day to marvelous in an instant. Trust me, I speak from experience. You might find yourself scrolling through a sea of curated predictability and then BAM!! Her paintings on their own will take your breath away, but there's something about seeing several of them displayed in a grouping that is truly magical. It fills my heart with joy.
7. Lucy Litman // Her #pantoneposts and #actuallytrashyoutfit pictures are great and all, but it's the paintbrush series that really stands out the most in Litman's coloriffic feed. The messages are honest and encouraging.
8. Christina Zimpel // It's not the first time I've mentioned this Brooklyn-based artist on m' blog and it probably won't be the last either. Described as shy and behind the scenes, art certainly serves as her alter ego. Wouldn't you agree? Just look at the broad brushstrokes and bold splashes of intense color. Eek, and her use of pink!!
9. Melanie Johnsson // I swear she's part illustrator and part personal therapist, but I doubt she's aware of that last title. Ha! Her color palette series and inspirational quotes are just a few of the reasons I began following her. I wonder if she knows that her lettering is also an effective life coach for yours truly??
10. Misterver // Waikiki's "mystery observer" documents beach fashion and local life with a quirky composition. His knack for detail rivals Andy Spade, which in my opinion is the ultimate compliment. Accounts like this have encouraged me to look through life's lens differently. When you pay attention, there's beauty in everything.

Have you stumbled upon any new inspiring artists lately? Do tell.

INSTA-LOVE: PART II

Last May, I shared some of my favorite Instagram accounts in this post. 

Well, it's time to spread the love once more! I've got another group of 'grammers whose pictures will leave you giddy and inspired:

• @NANNERBURNS // Anna's images are so beautiful, I find myself wanting to leap inside them. Naturally, her blog, Dear Friend, is equally delightful. This teacher and self-described adventurer and optimist is incredibly talented!
• @SHANNYDOOTS // A J.Crew junkie who sports some serious bling—two traits that make Shannon instantly endearing!
• @THYME_IS_HONEY // Dani is the shop owner and blogger behind Thyme is Honey. I was sure we could best besties when I read she's also a compulsive organizer. The fact that she's a contributing writer for Beauty Bets only sweetens the deal—you know I love me some product reviews. Oh, and I'm smitten with her bow-tie wearing pup, Walter!
• @MOSIE514 // A military spouse who spends her day dreaming she's Kate Middleton. In reality, Moe's a PA student (soon-to-graduate!!) who lives 400 miles away from her Marine husband. Learn more about her adventures here.
• @CAITSCHLABACH // I only wish that I would have been introduced to Caitlin BEFORE we moved from Hawaii. Gah! Her pictures are just SO stunning, and they make me miss the HI life now, more than ever.
• @_KAYLEE DAILY // I met Kaylee via blogging, and I'm certain this girl eats nothing but sunshine and doughnuts for breakfast. She's oozing with joy and sweetness! Can't get enough? Hop on over to her blog. I'm obsessed!
• @LPODLICH // Laura of Beauty and the Beard is seriously the cutest. Sometimes I dream about the day I finally get to meet her. We'd share baubles and sip on Adult Shirley Temples. It's going to be epic!
• @LAURENESSL // I attribute my urge to learn calligraphy to Lauren. She just makes it look SO cool! I'd give anything to attend one of her classes. For now, I'll live vicariously through her colorful images and website.
• @EMFLEM // I was so excited to stumble upon Emily's blog and Instagram this past year. Her words are honest and her smile is contagious. You will adore her!
• @DOMESTIKATEBLOG // Kate of DomestiKated Life shares my affinity for striped shirts. She knows how to throw a fabulous party and whips up cocktails that are almost too pretty to drink. Almost...
• @SYCAMORESTREETPRESS // Each day, I look forward to #evaseverydayoflettering. Sometimes I think the quotes shared are intended for me specifically. They're always inspiring or witty. Check out Eva's online shop here.
• @PARKERETC // Half Iowan and half Texan, Amy is a lifestyle blogger who settled in Brooklyn with her husband and daughter, Parker Mae. Her blog is one of my all-time faves!

Do you have a favorite Instagram account that I should know about?!

Insta-Love!

Instagram is my favorite productivity killer and creative instigator. It's one way in which I like to delight in the ordinary; it makes me stop and relish the beauty that is my life. I may be dusting around the house and I see a beautiful sunrise — "Quick, go get your camera (err, I mean phone)." I'll run around Lil' Puna like a stressed-out nut job and I see the smiling face of Beesly or Tripp snoozing and snoring in the corner — "Quick, go get your camera (err, I mean phone)." I might throw together an outfit I'm proud of, or style my knick-knacks in a way that would only make mom beam — "Quick, go get your camera (err, I mean phone)." I'll find myself WAITING for the next Sunday when Flyboy's next to me and we're relaxing seaside. When this happens, I feel a sense of bliss — "Quick, go get your camera (err, I mean phone)." I want to capture the moment. I'm such a visual person, I don't want to forget how I felt in that instance. When the minutiae of daily life starts to consume me, I turn to this happy album brimming with photos, or reminders of life's blessings.

And while I know there are a lot of opinions about Instagram and how these sorts of social media outlets tend to make others feel as though their lives are less than perfect, I disagree. Simply put, haters gonna hate. Just as much as I love snapping little moments and vignettes from my daily life, which allow me to focus on all that's good and pretty, I simply adore seeing life from the perspective of others. So many of us turn to Instagram because we're visually stimulated. I mean, is there anything better than a well-curated snapshot? Some of my favorite Instagrammers inspire me to look at life from various perspectives and to hone in on specific details. There's an art to beautiful images and I absolutely admire the way others capture life with an emphasis on light, movement, etc.

Alright, alright, I've rambled enough. 

Here are a dozen Instagram accounts whose pictures make me giddy: 

• LADYANK // A J.Crew Stylist and probably the most precious prego I've ever seen (next to Kate, obvi)!
• CHARTREUSETWIST // She's a DIY queen, and I'm a HUGE fan of her blog.
• FABKSTYLE // Kelly has a beautiful eye for design and captures details impeccably.
• NORTHWESTMOMMY // Images of Max, the Newfoundland, make my heart so incredibly happy!
• COLOURBLOC // A self-proclaimed gallery wall enthusiast and pop-of-color believer. Perfection.
• MRSLAIRDYPANTS // She's the kind of stylish gal you'd want to spend the afternoon with.
• THELADYMIMOSA // This lady takes Kate Spade's "Live Color Fully" motto seriously, and I love it!
• WAITINGONMARTHA // Mandy has a zeal for life that's contagious and an eye for all things fabulous. 
• ADASHOFDETAILS // I dare you not to adore Ali. Of course, her blog is equally incredible!
• NOTES_FROM_MONROE // There's no shortage of pink! Her photos are GORGEOUS.
• PENCILSHAVINGS // Rachel has an aesthetic and sense of creativity I truly admire.
• TULIPSANDFLIGHTSUITS // Mary is incredibly genuine. She's the kind of person you'd feel so blessed to call your friend. I just love the way she captures life as a new family.

Do you have a favorite Instagram account that I should know about?!

Life's Little Details

Life lately according to my Instagram photos...

Hydrangeas & Hearts

It's nice to come home to such a warm and friendly welcome! Beesly gives the best hugs. / Pink pants and green flats.

Have courage. / Blue skies.

Guilty pleasure courtesy of Bravo TV. / Weekend rewards -- new magazines, a fresh book, Julep polish, and hand cream.

A picture I received from Flyboy goofing around on the plane. I missed that mug! / Bright work ensemble. 

My future's so bright, I've got to wear shades. Actually, the sunrise at Puna is blinding. / Prinstagram photos spark creativity.

Love this gnome -- a gift from my parents! / It doesn't look like she gets much attention at all.

Sunday snacks and blogging. / Pink peonies = perfection.

The highlight of my weekend? Photos of mom and dad at a Rascal Flatts concert. They are the best people I know! I miss them.

Happy Monday, dearest friends! How was your weekend? Mine was busy -- so busy, I only sat down to watch Bravo once. That's typically how I measure my productivity level; it seems to be the most accurate. 'Twas a real shame to spend such a little amount of time in the Clubhouse with Andy and my BFF housewives, but I'm proud of what I accomplished. What was I doing? Well, thanks for asking! I was busy preparing for our guests. I went to the grocery store twice because I figured it would be easier to break my load into two trips. I'm saving my final trip for this afternoon -- I opted to hold off on buying produce and dairy products. Third time's a charm, right? In all honesty, I wanted everything to be super fresh -- things tend to go bad quickly at Lil' Puna.

On the bright side, the house is officially stocked with gobs of snacks, bug spray, and SPF. The bedding and towels have been washed, the house is de-furred (is that a word?), the car sparkles, and the dogs have been bathed. Primping Beesly took 2.5 hours, and I'm starting to wonder if it would be worth the money to just get her groomed. Luckily, I scored major brownie points for giving her my undivided attention. Lately, she's been rather sassy and acts as though I've neglected her. She'll flash her sad eyes at me, and next thing I know I'm laying on the floor with a giant fur ball when I have a perfectly comfortable couch behind me. Oh, for the love of dogs! And by the the photos above and the way I'm writing, you've probably forgotten that I have a second dog, Tripp. He's been a real pill lately -- extra skittish, antisocial, and hoarding toys -- but that's par for the course. In fact, I tried to snap a quick photo of him to include in today's post and he went and hid. Thank goodness Flyboy got home last night! After a crazy busy weekend, I needed some relief.

Alright, enough rambling for now! Even though I'll be busy with my in-laws, you can expect regular posts on the blog.

Have a merry Monday!

Toodles,

ANF

Life's Little Details

Just a few instances that left me snap happy...

Is there anything better than...

Striped espadrilles?

Fresh flowers?

A well-curated outfit? 

Surprise snail mail from the best of friends (Roald Dahl stamps included!)?

A care package courtesy of mom and dad?

Wet noses and ferocious furry paws?

A bevy of stripes and polka dots?

A celebratory dinner with friends?

Goofy sun hats?

Whimsical prints?

A Sunday stroll in the neighborhood?

Flyboy and I are enjoying our Memorial Day weekend together -- just as planned! We've had the best time making room for "funtivities" and checking items of the ol' to-do list. We plan on relishing this day with our toes in the sand and grilling to follow. And while all of this fun and sun is fine and dandy, it's also important for us to keep the true meaning of Memorial Day in mind. We must never forget those who fought and died so we didn't have to. Take a moment to reflect and count your blessings.

Happy Memorial Day!

Toodles,

ANF

Life's Little Details

Happy Monday, my dear readers! I have to tell you, I was in stitches on Friday afternoon once I realized I officially hit my 300 post mark. How could this be possible? I grow more and more excited about dear ol' bloggie, and I feel so blessed by the opportunities it's afforded me. All of this amusement and feelings of gratitude got me thinking about my blog-a-versary in mid-June. Let the planning begin! I started brainstorming, and I'm pretty elated with what I've got brewing. Stay tuned. Feel free to pitch some ideas. I'm all ears.

I hope you had a fabulous weekend. What did you do? How's your Monday look? Today's post is quite simple, because Flyboy's leaving again this evening for a quick trip. I plan on helping him pack, and we have a few chores we're going to knock off the to-do list before he bids Lil' Puna adieu. As you've probably already guessed, I thought I'd share some moments captured over the past few weeks via Instagram. I realize these sorts of social media platforms can be somewhat exhausting. They can make life appear perfect and leave you pining for more from your own life. On the flip side, it's also a nice way to stay in touch with friends and family, meet new cyber peeps, and a subtle reminder to stop and soak up life's sweeter moments. As much as I love being connected, I'm also learning that it's nice to unplug, put down the phone, and just "be" in the moment. Do you ever feel this way? I guess I've never been one who loves photos, but with the help of Instagram I suddenly feel like a shutterbug with an artistic eye. I live far away from family and friends, and I find myself alone more often than not. This simple app gives a certain satisfaction to sharing life's beauty with others. What are your thoughts on the app and other social media outlets? Have you ever considered breaking up with Twitter, Facebook, or Instagram?

In the meantime, here are a few moments that made me snap happy...

I was tickled to receive a package of goodies courtesy of Blair Ritchey! / Can't get enough of this floral print.

Polka dots are one of those neutral prints, right? Just like stripes, you can wear them with anything.

A beautiful sight: C-17s lined up on the runway and my favorite stack of glossies and trusty notebook at the beach.

These images remind me of the old SNL "Lovahs" skit -- we love archery and smoked meats.

Beesly makes her case to get up on the couch. Close, but no cigar, my sweet Berner. / A year at Puna and we are settled.

Old home videos transferred to DVD, courtesy of my sweet dad. I was excited to find out there are 15 discs headed my way.

I adore this vintage brass frog from my father-in-law. / A new Cy Twombly book to add to my collection. Thanks, mom!

Gastro Love: The Greek Marina and fun with Scrabble Cheez-Its. Where's the F?

The intense sun streams through the windows at Puna each morning. / Our current desktop background -- a great reminder!

I hope your week is off to a great start!

Toodles,

ANF

Life's Little Details

Happy Monday! I hope your weekend was divine. What did you do? I tackled four out of the five items on my weekend to-do list. I'll let you in on a little secret -- the one thing I didn't do is work out. Oops! I figured I'd save that for today instead. Can I get an eye roll? Johnny G (my faux spin instructor) would be so disappointed in me. Thankfully, I have him penciled in for a one-on-one sesh this morning. I promise!

(I feel so guilty. Let's move on to the next topic...)

Remember my post a few weeks ago about being adventurous? Well, that trip didn't quite work out as I'd hoped. Darling, I tried to be adventurous... It was a major bummer! Flyboy left for his home state this past Friday night. I can't help but think about how I was supposed to board a C-17 for the first time, a little rest and relaxation with my sister, a chance to vacate this old rock, visit dear friends, and eat some really spectacular food. Womp womp! On the bright side, all of this planning for nothing has me incredibly eager to visit my sister once she treks west this summer. I already want bragging rights as her first official visitor in Colorado. I'm thinking an afternoon at the DAM. Anyone with me?

It's about time that I hop on my spin bike. I think I'll pretend to climb Colorado's toughest hills. That sounds pretty laughable, actually. Maybe I'll just daydream about an afternoon with my darling sister? I can see us surrounded by the work of Clyfford Still. Heavenly, isn't it? 

While I wipe the sweat and slobber from my face, go on and take a gander at some of my favorite Instagram moments from the past two weeks -- details that make life's design that much sweeter.

These studs give a whole new meaning to "as cute as a bug's ear." / This weekend I zhushed my display of cards and cutouts.

I felt very Mrs. O in my Easter ensemble.

Does this mean Flyboy felt very Hall & Oates? Notice the Buddha in the background striking a senior pictures pose. Work it!

The poster says it all. / The upside to Flyboy's departure? He got day off to pack and prep for his trip, which included a trip to the beach.

I scored this dress form and adorned it with some of my baubles. / Saturday nights alone = Pretty Woman reruns and  dog grooming.

Stripes. Flats. Striped Flats! I can't take it. They're happy feet! / Spring blooms courtesy of the mister.

The aftermath of our dog Easter egg hunt. Get it, Tripp! / Kate Spade mailers and coupons are so classy and fun!

A Lil' Puna sunrise. / Persnickety is just an all-around fun word to say. Go on and say it!

Have an incredible day!

Toodles,

ANF

P.S. I'm SO stinking excited about tomorrow's post. Be sure to drop by! You won't want to miss out on the fun.

Life's Little Details: Part III

I hope you had a swell weekend. Saturday was busy with an early morning car appointment, an afternoon at work, and an evening trip to the airport to pick up Flyboy. He's home again, and I couldn't be happier! We spent Sunday relaxing at the beach and working in the yard. It was nice to just be together without any real plans. I've been looking forward to a lazy Sunday at Lil' Puna, and that's exactly the reason today's post isn't anything fancy. I wanted to take advantage of every bit of our weekend together. I thought I'd share some of my favorite Instagram moments from the past few weeks -- details that make life's design that much sweeter.

Cheerful Daffodillies to welcome spring in Hawaii.  / My part-time gig is a chance to get all gussied up.

My old case broke, so I ended up getting a new one at J.Crew. It's rubbery with a snazzy print. Me-ow! / A mid-morning Pinterest break.

Flyboy visited Missouri and sent me a few snapshots. I woke up to this image of Mizzou's Francis Quadrangle and it left me giddy with delight. / My two favorite people met up for a quick lunch date. I can't tell you how happy this makes me!

This adorable card from my mother-in-law was a sweet snail mail pick-me-up. / I ran some errands on Friday and looked over at my bags in the passenger seat. Would you say I have a serious Baggu illness?

Just as I mentioned earlier, my favorite part about working is the opportunity to play with color and accessories.

There's nothing quite like an evening with the pups, a bottle of Essie Ole' Caliente, and the most current issue of House Beautiful. / I've seen this quote pop up all over Pinterest and various blogs. It's so very true!

I promised myself I'd clean out my closet, and here's the finished product. I filled up three garbage sacks and made a trip to the local donation center. Out with the old and in with the new. Hello, spring! / I keep this journal on my nightstand. I always seem to get some of my best ideas late at night.

As you can tell, I'm a big fan of my gold ballet flats. They're not only practical, but precious as well! / This may seem a little silly, but it was a total coup when I woke up to check my email and got this little Twitter notice. Deborah Needleman is one of my role models. It was probably a random accident, but it made me ecstatic.

Beesly spent 30 minutes watching this very gecko. She's a curious and gentle giant.

A scene from yesterday's trip to the beach. Sitting in the sun with my toes in the sand and people watching is my favorite. / Our newest tenant at Lil' Puna, courtesy of the landlord. I thought I would be witty and name this 5-foot statue, Big Zen, but my dad came up with something even more clever --  Zen Affleck. 

When Flyboy's at home, he takes care of the yard work. I love that! I have very little business running a weed whacker.  Note: He's asked me to clarify that this particular work ensemble (madras lounge wear) doesn't leave the hill. Ever. / Another piece of snail mail sunshine from my good friend, Kim -- she's the queen of baking cupcakes. 

Tripp's pose in this picture reminds me of Will Ferrell in Step Brothers. / Beesly gets tickled when the Frisbee comes out.

Beez goes nuts when Tripp is playful. He's not a very excitable dog, so it's like Christmas for her when he gets feisty. / After about five minutes of Frisbee fun, Tripp retires to his corner and  Beesly is bummed out. Where'd he go?

Happy Monday!

Toodles,

ANF