i'm still here.

Sigh, this poor little blog has been so lonely lately. But, on the up side, I've been spending lots of time with this guy--my new (to me) bike! As my family, Landon, and my insurance agent all know, handle bars suit me much better than a steering wheel. Plus, being outside first thing in the morning is a really relaxing way to start my day as I ride to work.

xoxo.

shhh.

I know it's been quiet on the blog this week, but I'll be coming back soon! In the meantime, this rug is great.

xoxo.

oops, i did it again.

...a little blog redesign, that is.

This one took me a few hours to plan, but less than an hour to implement (last time around it took the better part of a weekend). And it's squeaky clean, which I love.

Happy last few hours of your long weekend!

xoxo.

yes, i'm still alive.

Yikes--I can't believe that I've only posted seven (now eight) times this month. To say the least, things are crazy busy. 

I'll be back soon (I hope) to regular daily posts. Thanks for not completely abandoning me in my absence. 

xoxo.

[photos are ones I took recently at a banquet I covered for work]

my favorite reads.

Happy Friday! Here a few blogs I'm loving lately (for your weekend reading!)...

Elephantine

Camille Styles

Hello Lark

Vintage Pretty

Marmunia*

*this is my sweet cousin's blog, and she's writing about her fabulous travels through Europe right now!

xoxo.

look on the bright side [my thoughts on inspiration and other abstract concepts]

A gorgeous framed print that Renee made for us! Don't you love it?

So, has anyone else noticed that things in the blog world seem to take a sadder, more exhausted turn every winter? I've started calling it the Late Winter Blog Blues, and I think it's a real thing. I started to notice this in January of 2011, and I'm seeing it even more this year. I've noticed a lot of posts (I even wrote one of my own, and then decided not to post it, thanks to the advice of others) that have a sometimes-I-don't-think-I'm-cut-out-for-this tone, or a here's-what's-wrong-with-the-world tone (that was mine) or a I'll-never-be-like-Sydney-or-Grace-or-Joy-or-Joanna tone. And I know that's a huge generalization of topics and emotions, but I think that the combination of the beginning of the year being a natural time to reflect and reevaluate, combined with just coming off of the four most blog-able months of the year makes for a strange transition. I've certainly felt it myself, just a general lack of inspiration to share. But because I've noticed it, I've also built in some habits to not get down on myself or this sweet little corner of the internet that I call my own.

First, I've decided to be real with myself. I work 40 hours a week (I couldn't ask for a better job, by the way!), I help out with CookingThyme, I have four other freelance projects going on, and I have Landon (and now Snook) to spend time with (that's NOT to say that spending time with Landon is ever a chore, cause we do super fun things together like listen to Fresh Air and do Jillian Michaels workouts, among other things).

Second, I've increased my intake of solid inspiration. I'm reading Start With Why by Simon Sinek, and it's changing my perception about a lot of things. I also watched the recording of Ben Silbermann's Keynote Address at Alt Summit this year, and I thought Ben shared some of the sentiments of Start With Why: that just as in life, having success in your endeavors comes from authenticity, humility and hard work. There really aren't any gimmicks, shortcuts or sales strategies that can get you there. People become loyal to people or companies who are real, honest and flexible. 

And third, I've taken a "just do it" approach. A lot of times when important things need to get done, I let my emotions get in the way. I spend time being stressed or worried rather than digging in and getting the work done. Now, any time I feel like I'm starting to get too emotional about the work I'm doing or the tasks ahead of me, I make a mental list of exactly what needs to get done, set myself a time limit and then get to work.

Feels Good To Get Some Stuff Done Poster by Mary Kate McDevitt on Etsy

How do you fight the late winter blog blues? Have you noticed this trend in blogging?

xoxo.

the bright life turns two.

Well, The Bright Life's actual two-year birthday was on the 16th, but we're celebrating today. :)

It's crazy to think that two years have gone by. Looking back at my first post, I remember not having much of an idea of what I wanted The Bright Life to be. I initially used it to share projects I was making for our wedding, and to share how I'm inspired by the people I love. It's turned into such a fun, creative outlet for me, and a place to share inspiration and keep our families updated on what we're up to here in lil' ol' Abilene. I've cried while typing into this box, and I've laughed my head off at posts like Ryan's guest post. It's been a great two years, and I'm looking forward to two more!

My friend/former co-worker/cousin, Jolleen, introduced me to the idea of six-word stories a couple weeks ago. I've also heard of six-word memoirs (which tend to be a bit darker). Anyway, I decided to come up with my own six-word story or motto for what I've learned in these past two years about life, trust and God's plan:

You'll know when you get there.

xoxo. 

[felt texture from pugly pixel, zig-zag stitch font from fontspace]

cold hands, warm hearts swap

Happy Wednesday! Today I'm linking up with Cold Hands, Warm Hearts to share what I received from my swap partner, Amanda of And They Will Become One Flesh. 

I found a very sweet package in the mail a couple weeks ago, with lots of goodies inside, and I couldn't wait to open it!

(sorry for the poor photo quality, I took these in the early morning, before the sun had come up...)

Amanda sent me some very sweet gifts, and it's been great getting to know her through her blog and emails.

 First up, the gloves of course! Or, glittens, to be more specific. I love the pattern on these, and because they can be worn fingerless, they're perfect for chilly mornings in my office! I've already worn them plenty of times!

 Also in the package were pencils and a set of cards...two of my very favorite things! The pencils are even Christmas colors...perf!

 And finally, this gorgeous scarf. This photo isn't a good representation of how pretty it is! It's a beautiful coral color with black lace, I've worn this a few times already too...I love it! 

 So, there you have it. The swap has been so much fun, and I'm already looking forward to next year! To see the goodies I sent Amanda, click here.

Amanda, it's been so fun getting to know you, and I'll be keeping up with your blog, especially with your little one coming soon! Have a wonderful holiday season celebrating the birth of our Savior! Xo, Katie

xoxo.

inspired: twelve by 2012.

If inspiration itself had a blog, I think it would be Oh, Hello Friend. When I read Danni's post a couple weeks ago about accomplishing twelve things by 2012, I was definitely inspired. So today, I bring you my list. Feel free to hold me accountable!

My list of twelve things to do before 2012:

1. Plan and cook our Thanksgiving meal.

(thankfully I have Landon's mom to help me with this!)

2. Organize the file box.

(really looking forward to this one...not. but it must be done!)

3. Start a blog redesign of The Bright Life.

(I'm seeing stripes...)

4. Decorate my new office.

(It's a blank slate right now, you design bloggers can feel free to share ideas!)

5. Start to pay back our emergency fund.

(Dave Ramsey, anyone?)

6. Start an "I have this theory..." column on the blog.

(Think Seinfeld-esque...)

7. Hang at least three pieces of art on our walls.

(we've lived here for five months and I still haven't done much of this!)

8. Take photos for this year's Christmas cards.

(Last year's cards)

9. Add three new items to our shop.

(Something I've already procrastinated on...)

10. Plan a Christmas list (for others) that is mostly handmade.

(Don't worry fam, it's still gonna be rockin'...I hope.)

11. Come up with an inexpensive, but festive Christmas tree alternative.

(We'll be gone for two weeks around Christmas, so buying a tree isn't part of the plan this year...)

12. Drink a Crema latte.

(This should be no trouble at all...)

bold = not started
bold italics = in progress
strikethrough = completed!

So there you have it! If you want to join in on twelve by 2012, visit Danni's blog to submit your post!

xoxo.

P.S. I'm also over here today (diagnosing your kitchen alter-ego!).

sunday lovin: changes.

 Friends, I have some fun changes to tell you about! A few weeks ago, I applied for a job (almost on a whim) at Hardin-Simmons University (HSU), where Landon is going to grad school...and within the same week, I was offered the job!! While I was getting good experience at McMurry University, working at HSU will help us cover some of the extra costs of Landon's schooling, so switching jobs was the right decision for us (and definitely a HUGE blessing). The photo above shows the building I'll be working in, starting tomorrow! I took a walk around the HSU campus last weekend and snapped a couple of shots...

I'm excited to work in such a beautiful place! I think this will be a good fit for me, and the fact that it's within walking distance from our house doesn't hurt, either. It's also right across the street from our church, so it's like we've got our own little corner of the world here, and I love it.

Along with the job change, I've decided to change things up here on the blog. I love posting on here, but lately, I feel like my posts have been lacking a little something special, and I'm always putting them together last minute. So, I devised a plan. As a way to help me work ahead on things AND keep you inspired, I've come up with some lovely little themes to bring you each week. 

And they are...

DIY Monday: (DIY project from me, or DIY inspiration from around the web)

Inspired: (what I'm loving and inspired by)

Life Lately: (an update on Landon and I and our adventures in Texas)

The Anthology: (a collection of pretty and inspiring things or ideas)

In the Shop: (a featured item from our shop)

Sunday Lovin: (an old favorite)

What do you think? I'm hoping this will be a good change for The Bright Life, keeping me on track and bringing lots of lovely things your way!

xoxo.

let's take a walk...

...down memory lane.

One year ago today, I posted about my big ol' Browning calves and asked desperately for some suggestions...

...and y'all (I'm Texan now) pulled through and gave me the confidence to buy a pair...

So I'm reminded tonight of one of the 198,782 reasons why I love blogging. Love it. Where else can you get 24/7 wardrobe advice?

xoxo.

whoops.

Sometimes we get so caught up watching the state dinner on C-SPAN that I forget to post something meaningful on here. Now, before you go thinking that we're uber-smart and politically savvy (that's what you're thinking, right?), I'll have you know that one of us was saying things like "Oh, that's the senator from such-and-such," and the other one of us was saying things like "Oooh, I bet those two have cute kids." 

xoxo.

P.S. Landon is, in fact, wearing shorts in this picture. 

changes.

Exactly one year ago, The Bright Life got it's first makeover. It's had at least one (maybe two?) makeovers since then, and I'm kind of itching to change it again. What do you think?

xoxo.

P.S. Sorry for the short and somewhat lacking posts lately. I sort of feel like I'm being swallowed by this week!

when there's no time.

Sometimes, there's just no time for a post. Because in between sleeping a few minutes way past my alarm (because I've started this new lying in my bed awake for half the night thing...what's with that? It's no secret that I'm turning into my mom, and so far this seems to be the only downside), a full work day, dinner and Seinfeld, designing announcements for TylerBright and helping Landon measure out the course for his team's early morning cross country workout tomorrow (as seen in the above photo), I'm only left with a few spare minutes.

And as a result, you're only left with this puny little post. Maybe tomorrow?

xoxo.

goodbye summer.

Can you believe tomorrow is September?!? Yikes, time flies! While we've still got at least another month or so of crazy hot weather here in Texas, summer is coming to a close. We've had an eventful summer, which started with our move to Texas. Landon had his first class yesterday, and he taught his first class yesterday also! What a proud wifey I am. Before August is over, I wanted to share with you a few things that have inspired me this summer. I'm loving peachy pinks and earthtones, hence the theme running through the photo above. 

Clockwise from top left:

Adorable Rice Krispie Treat Ice Cream Cones from Cute As a Fox

Michaela's sweet braided knot tutorial. Love that girl.

Did you see the how-to for this amazing pallet bed by Jaime from Prudent Baby? She also made a great video of the transformation.

Place cards from our wedding, via Ruffled. This one is less in the "inspiration" category and more in the "fond memories" bank. :) Photos by Yasmin Khajavi.

My dear friend Angie's pallet frame display, featuring photos of her recent trip to Ghana. 

Ask me how I feel about pallets right now. 

xoxo.

PS. I've been wiggled! Thanks to Blair, who is the sweet blogger behind Wild and Precious. She's also got a killer Joe Purdy playlist up today. Head over here to check it out.

PPS. One year ago. Like I said, time flies.

some changes.

You may have noticed that I've made a few changes around here. 

First, I updated the "about" and "our wedding" pages...

And I also added these little guys off the side there so you can tweet, follow, pin or chat to your hearts content.

Just a little update!

xoxo.

sometimes i have really good intentions and they backfire.

Exhibit A: I had an entire week of posts planned out for this week, and they haven't happened. 

Exhibit B: I had this great idea that even though I was starting a new job, I'd still be able to spend plenty of time looking at my fave blogs, commenting, coming up with fab post ideas, and the like. Hasn't happened.

Exhibit C: I made a pasta recipe that called for 4 cloves of garlic and 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes in the sauce and thought, "Meh, this won't be to spicy for me, little miss I-can't-handle-anything-past-ketchup." I took one bite before smothering it in sour cream, and three more before giving up entirely. 

So there you have it. And this all relates to a very Maya Angelou-esque lesson that I'm learning, and that's to be true to mahself. I get these really great ideas about how I could grow my blog (a good intention, no?), and how if I just had more time and money I could do DIY posts up the wazoo, and I could decorate my house in the most blog-worthy manner, and then I'd get gazillions of followers and comments and sponsors, etc. etc. etc. But that's not why I write, and I think I needed a little reminder of that. I think lately I've been very technical about my blog: analyzing my audiences, strategizing, looking at results, and other boring stuff like that. But if I keep that up, I think pretty soon I'll have sucked all the life out of this little thing I've created (and for crying out loud, the word life is in the blog name, and removing it is not an option).

I've spent this week reading a lot of marketing materials to get prepped for the projects I'll be working on at my new job, and they all agree on one thing: people can tell when you're being authentic. So that's what I'm going for. Consider this a heads up.

xoxo.

Today you are you, that is truer than true. There is no one alive who is youer than you.

-Dr. Seuss

[photo by angie, at another time when things clearly backfired!]

are you a planner? [printable blog calendar]

Now that I'm a working girl, I have to be a little more intentional about posting on The Bright Life. I can't wait for inspiration to suddenly strike sometime throughout the day! Some people might think that planned posts are less inspired, but I beg to differ. I rely on planning, which is why I created this calendar for myself. Aaaaand, lucky you...I'm sharing!

There's a spot for the month, each day of the month (or most of them...i could only fit 28 days), your post idea or title, and a quick description so you can remember what you had planned for the day. 

If you'd like your own, click "Download" and plan away!

xoxo.

get @ me.

Friends! I've recently expanded in the social media world, and I'd love to connect with you! I'm now tweeting and pinning, so be sure to @ me and let me know you're a blog follower!

twitter // pinterest

And, thanks for all your lovely comments about our house! I love it so far, but we also have lots of work cut out for us. Stay tuned!

xoxo.

sunday lovin: a new look.

I decided it's time for a new look at The Bright Life! Something clean, fresh and simple. In the words of my dearest friend Maryn, "Simple is the new thing," so that must mean I'm on the right track. You'll also notice the tab on the side for "TylerBright," a little collaboration between Renee and I that's in the works. The tab isn't linked yet, but expect an official announcement about TylerBright in the near future!

Let me know your thoughts on the new design! 

xoxo.