Midweek Motivation

It's that midweek point again. You know the one. It's the day of the week where you're half way in but there's still half way to go. You know the one everyone calls Hump Day. Such a strange name, anyways. I prefer the Wednesday Wisdom trend better. Well, the days are getting longer and that includes weekdays so I thought I'd share what is motivating me this week and things I'm loving lately. Summer weather strengthens the desire for a weekend I thought these things might help motivate me and to keep moving forward.

1. Mood Boards or Brand Boards

I've always loved the look and feel of a perfectly organized space. Mood/Brand Boards take a brands look, feel and features and organize them in a way that is so perfect. They really do portray a mood. I recently started incorporating using brand boards into my design process. I love using them as a tool for so many reasons. Aren't these beautiful?

Enough about work, on to number 2.

2. Celebrating an Anniversary

The one year anniversary of selling Maiden Hands products in local Michigan stores happened on June 8th. I celebrated with just a little announcement and shout out to the owner of Halfmile Handmade in Bay City, MI who is the first person who helped make this dream a reality. Inside I was jumping up and down, possibly squealing a little bit because reflecting on the change and accomplishments in one year is truly rewarding. Since last June I have committed to 3 other locations. I might be a little crochet crazy. Still, go check out my Instagram to see where Maiden Hand items are featured.

3. "Report Cards"

Edee's "report card" came home with her on the last day of school. I say "report card" because M's and P's aren't the letters I remember seeing on a report card. None the less, Edee Meets the end of the year stand for the majority of categories and is Progressing at a good rate to meet the end of year stands in just a few categories. The only letter I did recognize that she received in one area is a B. She is Below average in Physical Education in the category of "Follows rules and safety procedures." That's my daughter; fearless rule breaker. I am not the least bit worried about this and still laughing a week later because isn't life funny? 

My sisters reminded me that there were time, believe it or not, I broke rules and would rather be dancing than playing basketball. I'd completely ignore the basketball coach because I was in my own little world. I am reminded that it's possible she takes after both her father and I in this department. I am also reminded you are who you are. Stay true to yourself.

4. Camping

In efforts to spend more time together as well as enjoy more of Michigan we've made it a family goal to camp more this year. We're collecting better camping gear including a spacious tent, air mattresses, sleeping bags.I was gifted adorable tin cups from my favorite shop up north Pentwater Popcorn that are now packed in with our camp stuff. We camped once so far and have plans to head to a cottage this weekend. I can't wait to sit by the fire again, relax in hammocks and just spend time with each other. 

That's it for now! Id love to hear about what motivates you through the week. Comment below with your weekly motivators. 

Until next time,

Karlee

A Month of Personal Growth

The second month of 2017 has come and gone in a flash, which might have something to do with a 28 day month. None the less it was a pretty productive month. A few 60 degree days, 1 goal accomplished, 8 Morning Makeovers and  3 dance videos a night have made for a successful February.

If you can't tell I've been putting a little energy into me. Spending a few extra minutes to journal, focus on gratitude, shining light and a devotion each morning has helped me be more positive in my thoughts and actions. I am so fortunate to have a group on Facebook to guide me through this process. I hope that with time I will be have more patience for areas of struggle and better appreciate for the things that are put in front me that I see as obstacles but are meant to teach me and change me.

Believe it or not I'm also exercising, or dance- ercising. My sister introduced me to YouTube videos that have sparked my interest to get in at least 15 minutes of exercise each night. They are surprisingly easy to stick with. Even if they kick my butt.

As I mentioned above I accomplished 1 of my goals for 2017. Even though I officially crossed the goal off my list on February 1st I am still so excited to announce our (my boss included) branding portfolio is online! Check it out: michiganbranded.com

I also mentioned above a few 60 degree days. Yes, we have had some abnormally warm weather this Winter. All though it worries me and makes me wonder if this Summer will be a very hot one I still have enjoyed the sunshine and warmth. R and I took the girls disc golfing and to the park to take full advantage of the sunshine.

R mentioned today that hard work pays off. We have goals of saving money and a vacation planned so my fingers are crossed! There's days I just need a little reminder and then there's days I know he's right, especially when small things click into place. 

Oh I almost forgot to mention, which most of you know, I attended my very first craft show! I had a whopping 6 sale total! But I really enjoyed meeting new people and plan to attend another sale.

I am looking forward to a new month. I can't wait to continue journaling for personal growth and plan to continue achieving more goals.

How are your 2017 goals coming along? I'd love to hear about them. 

Good night for now. Xoxo

About THIS

The Plain Side. My uplifiting, productive, personal blog. With a focus on love, relationships and how it's not so plain -- simple or easy. It is also about my experience in life. How one person can take the darnedest of situations, curve balls and bad days and turn them into a life lesson.

Did you know I  came up with the name for my blog from one of my favorite songs? It's actually part of a lyric. I was struggling with what to name it because my first several ideas were used already. So I turned to music; another great motivator. And that's what I came up with. 

My very first intentions for this blog were to write about my relationship and learning process as I travel through life with Ryan. However, I find that writing -- for me, is a habit I've had my whole life. One that I NEED to express and improve myself. So this blog has become not just about my relationship with Ryan, but about everyday situations, events, etc. and how I learn. Which most of this you've probably gathered if you are a constant follower (Shout out to Tiff and Sue and all my other fans).

My goal for each writing is to expand my vocabulary and understanding of punctuation, etc. To learn from writing my experiences, thoughts and feelings and for my readers to enjoy and learn too. (The second 2 are most important to me.) I want people to think bigger and better thoughts after reading my posts. When bad things happen I always try to remember that it could be worse. If it's raining I think: well at least it's not snowing. With that thought processes I want to help improve others thought processes as well. Even if it is just by telling them the simplest story. 

There are big plans for this blog. Me, the inspired, motivated person I am, have BIG plans for my writings. You'll have to wait and see what happens but it's a work in progress.These plans are also a part of what keeps me motivated. 

This blog has become very important to me. Not just because blogging is the IN thing right now. But because I've already grown as a person since I started writing. I've found connections with other people through similar blogs or just topics of interested and I feel a sense of accomplishment when I can sit and write one more page of my adventure. It is also very exhilarating to receive the feedback I do from friends, family and followers. Thank you all for continuing your support.