• Home
  • Privacy Policy
  • Contact
    • Collaborate
  • Blog
  • Parties
    • Children’s Parties Ideas
    • Holiday Parties
    • Adult Party Ideas
  • Holiday Ideas
    • Christmas
    • Easter
    • Fourth of July
    • Spring
    • Thanksgiving
    • Valentine’s Day
  • Seasons
    • Winter
    • Spring
    • Summer
    • Autumn
  • Recipes
    • Appetizers
    • Beverages
    • Desserts
    • Main Dishes
    • Side Dishes
    • Soups
  • Project Gallery
    • Crafts
    • Decorating
    • DIY
    • Good Ideas
    • Tutorials
  • Shop My Home
  • Nav Social Menu

    • Bloglovin
    • Email
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
    • Twitter

At The Picket Fence with Vanessa Hunt

Where Ideas for your Home Meet Inspiration for your Heart

  • Book
  • Speaking
  • Meet Vanessa
    • Featured

July 13, 2012

It’s Inspiration Friday #73! Welcome!

Inspiration Friday Graphic
Wow! It’s hard to believe we are already into the middle of July. Where has the summer gone?! It’s been hot! hot! hot! here in Kentucky. And speaking of hot…Heather has some “hot off the press”… news to share with our readers.
Our family is moving to “Hot-lanta!”…that would be Atlanta..for all of ya who didn’t know Atlanta is often called that.

We are SO sad to be leaving our beautiful home here in the rolling hills of Kentucky, but excited for the new adventure ahead of us.  This is the first home we’ve ever sold, so we’re a bit nervous about how it will all work.  In fact, I’m hoping by the time my Better Homes and Garden features comes out this fall…we’ll be all settled in our new home. How weird will that be?! lol
I’ll be sharing some fun tips on how we are staging our home inexpensively to put it’s best foot forward, but in the meantime we would covet your prayers for a quick sell at the right price.  Also, for our family personally as “the boy” is thinking of staying here in Kentucky to attend school. sob. can’t go there quite yet.
So, we’ll keep you updated on our families next big adventure…any Atlanta readers out there?  Can’t wait to meet my new Atlanta gal (and guy) pals!
Up next we want to introduce you to a new sponsor here At The Picket Fence …..Bei Fiori!
where you can find beautiful items like these!
Set of Mr. and Mrs. Burlap Pillow Covers
and she’s already stocking up for the holidays! Head over to get a jump start on your fall and winter decorating!
 We are also hosting a lovely giveaway from Lilla Rose.  Wanna see how Heather normally wears her hair and enter to win a beautiful Lilla Rose hair accessory? Visit the Lilla Rose Giveaway!
 Now it’s time for our Features!

picketfence_20010_thumb[18]_thumb[2]
INSPIRED ROOMS

 Kristy of Coral and Coast revealed her new office! It’s so soothing with pops of fun color! A perfect place to work…and blog!
We love it when we get a peek into any fabulous space created by the talented Ann of On Sutton Place.  Here’s a glimpse at her Summer Front Porch! A beautiful “room” full of inspiration! She also shares some of her gorgeous custom made pillows, one of a kind and so lovely!

Okay. If you know Kerry from HouseTalkN at all you know she’s one of the funniest people on the planet…seriously.  But, she’s also one of the most talented! Here is the recent reveal of her daughter’s bedroom makeover! um…yes we want to be nine and have this room! Tell your daughter to step aside Kerry, we’re moving in!
MAKEOVERS

 This cheery yellow bench makeover caught our eye!  Jana of Transformations of the Heart cleaned up and  hand painted a old and worn out teak bench, giving it a fun new life!
painted yellow teak wood bench
We are always amazed at what people can do with old pieces of furniture.  This dresser makeover from One Girl in Pink is no exception! We think this piece is very happy with it’s transformation.
Here’s a completely different type of makeover! Sonja of Practical Stewardship repurposed old clothes into reusable and “green” Snack Bags! She gives the full tutorial to show us how we can make our own.
CRAFTS AND CREATIONS

 We love this beautiful “French-y basket” created by of Under a Pile of Scrap! She used a lovely graphic from the fabulous Graphic Fairy to make this one of a kind piece.
Debbie from Confessions of a Plate Addict never ceases to amaze us with her creativity! We are adoring her Ruler Table Runner!
How darling are these DIY Butterfly Place Cards created by Setting for Four.  Of course the fact that this one was made just for Heather couldn’t help but catch our eye…Winking smile okay. okay so the creator of these beautiful butterflies is Heather…but I can pretend this one is just for me.
RECIPES AND PARTIES

 Ashley of Cherished Bliss shared a fun Pink Lemonade Birthday Party with us! We feel cooler just looking at the pictures!
Pink Lemonade 5
Who doesn’t love Root Beer…and who doesn’t love Play dough? But Root Beer and Play dough together..yes!! Kristin of Homespun with Love shares this great Root Beer Float Play dough recipe..perfect for summer fun!
We agree with Karla  of My Serendipitous Life that this might just be the Best Breakfast Ever! Surely one of the prettiest we’ve ever seen!
OUTDOOR LIVING

 Amy of The Blissful Bee replaced a ho hum ceiling fan with this darling DIY outdoor light fixture from a lantern. 
These next two projects could have been featured in a variety of categories but they are most definitely outdoor loveliness and they are both by the same person.  We just couldn’t feature one with out the other. Cindy of Beaux R’eves shares the amazing Outdoor Daybed she and her husband built…
…and peeking out from under that fabulous outdoor day bed is the gorgeous stained concrete floor that did themselves! Shares the full tutorial on how they did this!
We couldn’t let you get away without sharing Sue from Sullivan and Murphy’s new outdoor space! We can’t think of a better way to spend the summer than hanging out in this gorgeous oasis!
patio under deck
INSPIRING STORIES

Desiree of The Suburban Kelley’s shared a wonderful post on “Worry” and we so related to how she is trying to “keep all of the plates spinning” while trusting God to be sovereign over each one.

As the mom of a handsome young man, Heather’s heart was touched by this inspiring post shared by Rose Petals and Rust.   son wanted to make a difference for  patients suffering form long term medical hair loss and decide that growing your hair out for this worthwhile cause wasn’t just for “young ladies!”  It took him 15 months…but he finally reached the goal! Read how he responded to the reactions of others and learn more about this special gift to Locks of Love!
If you were featured today (or have been featured in the past) please grab the featured at button code located on our Buttons Page found under our header!
Are you following At The Picket Fence on Facebook? Don’t forget we feature many of your links during the week on our Facebook Page! If you’ve been featured there, grab a button as well!
Are you following us on
Pinterest
We sure hope so! BUT…We have a SPECIAL REQUEST of you, if you visit INSPIRATION FRIDAY and like to PIN the great projects you see here! Please pin from the ORIGINAL SOURCE and not our blog…unless it’s one of our own creations, then by all means pin away from here…we won’t mind! 😉
Thank you to everyone who shared so many fabulous posts with us last week! We appreciate you!
Now it’s time to share with us what has inspired you this week!
Thank you so much for joining us for Inspiration Friday at the Fence,
When you are done linking up head over and party with the other Friday Party Friends:

vif187Fridays Unfolded
Photobucket





Now all ya PARTY PEOPLE it’s time to link on up…here’s some instructions for Inspiration Friday

  • Link Up any post you’ve written that has Inspired You and will Inspire Others-it can be a home improvement project, craft, recipe, story, devotional…if it inspires link it up!
  • Be sure to link back to your original post  and not just your url (main blog address)
  • Please post our button (code on our Buttons Page found at top of blog) or a text link on your blog so others can join in the fun! (MANDATORY to be featured At The Picket Fence) Tutorial on how to link up a button: Blogging 101
  • Visit another guest. Please try and visit at least the link directly above and below you! We try to visit as many posts as we can but as Inspiration Friday grows sometimes we miss some and for that we apologize. It makes us feel good knowing others are visiting people as well! Thank you..it truly means a lot to us
This Inspiration Friday Party is Sponsored By:
 
Disclaimer: At the Picket Fence may feature any of the projects linked up to Inspiration Friday in other posts or on Facebook, twitter and hometalk with all credit being given to the original source. If you would not like your projects featured please email us.

71 Comments Filed Under: Inspiration Friday

Subscribe

Get the latest goodness straight to your inbox!

Previous Post: « Repurposing Round-Up!
Next Post: Talking Shop with…Vicki of Curly Willow Collections! »

Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. Connie says

    July 12, 2012 at 8:05 PM

    I think the photos you feature are beautiful, sugar. Your blog is quite cute. Fairly new to it though.
    xoxo,
    Connie

    Reply
  2. Taryn @ Design, Dining + Diapers says

    July 12, 2012 at 8:11 PM

    Thanks for hosting ladies! I am loving those features!

    Reply
  3. Andrea at Opulent Cottage says

    July 12, 2012 at 8:11 PM

    So excited for you about the move! I’m sure your home will sell in a jiffy, with your gorgeous staging. Good luck! And thanks for hosting! xo, Andrea

    Reply
  4. Paula says

    July 12, 2012 at 8:12 PM

    Good luck with the move. It’s sure to be an adventure. Thanks for hosting!

    Reply
  5. Four Marrs and One Venus says

    July 12, 2012 at 8:12 PM

    Yes So many amazing and pretty features up there! I Brought you a Slice of my Fresh Peach Pie! Enjoy and thank you for the party! Jen

    Reply
  6. suzyq says

    July 12, 2012 at 8:16 PM

    Wow – what incredible features!! Thanks so much for hosting – it’s always fun to come to your parties!
    Hugs,
    Suzan

    Reply
  7. Rosemary@villabarnes says

    July 12, 2012 at 8:17 PM

    Wishing you all the best with your move. Thanks for hosting.

    Reply
  8. Kathy A Delightsome Life says

    July 12, 2012 at 8:22 PM

    Hello Ladies – congratulations on the move – I am a couple of hours away from Atlanta – so if the city gets too much for the girl -just email me! I have a guest room ready and waiting! Lovely features – that young man is wonderful! I appreciate you two! Have a wonderful day,
    Kathy

    Reply
  9. ℳartina @ Northern Nesting says

    July 12, 2012 at 8:22 PM

    Thanks for hosting girls and have a super weekend!

    Reply
  10. Confessions of a Plate Addict says

    July 12, 2012 at 8:26 PM

    How fun! Thanks so much for featuring my ruler runner, ladies! 🙂 And thanks for hosting! Can’t wait for you to join us down here in Hot-lanta!…hugs…Debbie

    Reply
  11. Anita says

    July 12, 2012 at 8:26 PM

    Lots of great and very different features girls! Thanks for hosting! I hope it is ok to link up two projects…for me two projects in a week is like the end of the world.

    Reply
  12. Honey at 2805 says

    July 12, 2012 at 8:29 PM

    Fab features, ladies! Thanks for being gracious hostesses and for linking to Potpourri Friday!

    Good luck on the sale and the move! With your remodeled kitchen and dining area, how could a new buy resist?

    Reply
  13. Kim @ Savvy Southern Style says

    July 12, 2012 at 8:30 PM

    Super features. I featured the cute young fellow and his hair, too. So nice of him to do that. Thanks for hosting.

    Reply
  14. Jana@Transformations From the Heart says

    July 12, 2012 at 8:36 PM

    Great features, I have lots of visiting some new sites this evening.
    I want to thank you so much for the feature, I was so surprised while
    scrolling the screen to see that you featured my bench makeover. Truly
    an honor to be picked among some very talented folks. Thank you..thank
    you!! Good luck with the move and my fingers are crossed for a quick sell
    for you. Also thanks for hosting another great party. Now off to browse
    some sites.

    Reply
  15. Erin @SalmonAtSeven says

    July 12, 2012 at 8:40 PM

    Can’t wait to check out some of your features…. I’m excited to be back partying again. This week I brought my healthy mac and cheese – made with quinoa. Next week, I’ll have something even cooler!

    Reply
  16. Girl in Pink says

    July 12, 2012 at 8:56 PM

    What a fun surprise it was when I came over to link up just now and saw that you’d featured my dresser from last week! Thank you so much! And thank you for hosting your fun party each week!
    Best Wishes and Blessings,
    Amanda

    Reply
  17. Janette - The2Seasons says

    July 12, 2012 at 8:58 PM

    Thank you for hosting. We think you will enjoy our inspiring story. Janette and Jordan

    Reply
  18. Savvy Seasons says

    July 12, 2012 at 9:03 PM

    WOW, fab features!! I’m enjoying looking at everyone’s links. Thanks for hosting! xo ~Liz

    Reply
  19. monsterscircus says

    July 12, 2012 at 9:07 PM

    So amazing what you do, it’s such a kind thing that you’ll let us share! Have a wonderful Day!

    Reply
  20. miss flibbertigibbet says

    July 12, 2012 at 9:08 PM

    Great features!! Thanks so much for hosting girls!

    Reply
  21. SwedishCorner-DownUnder...Pernilla says

    July 12, 2012 at 9:44 PM

    Lovely features 🙂 Thank you so much for hosting, ladies!
    Greetings from Australia♥
    ~Pernilla

    Reply
  22. RaNaeLuvsEwes says

    July 12, 2012 at 9:51 PM

    Each feature is soo awesome ty so much for hosting have a great weekend girls
    RaNae

    Reply
  23. Cindy says

    July 12, 2012 at 10:17 PM

    Thank you girls for the features! You are both awesome to host this party each week. Can’t wait to visit the other fabulous features. 🙂
    XO Cindy

    Reply
  24. ~ Liz ~ says

    July 12, 2012 at 10:28 PM

    Looks like your features alone will keep me busy for most of the night. Thanks for putting on a great party!
    Liz

    Reply
  25. Athena at Minerva's Garden says

    July 12, 2012 at 10:43 PM

    Hi Heather and Vanessa: Thank you for hosting the party today–my first time participating. I like your featured posts, especially the Frenchy basket. Take care–have a lovely weekend!

    Reply
  26. Sue says

    July 12, 2012 at 11:17 PM

    Thanks so much Vanessa and Heather, for featuring my backyard. It’s been fairly mild- in the 80’s instead of the 100’s- so we’ve been able to enjoy the outdoors this past week! LOL
    xo Sue

    Reply
  27. Kathy @ Creative Home Expressions says

    July 12, 2012 at 11:52 PM

    Great features, ladies! Good luck with your home sale, Heather. Our move last year from NY to Ohio was sudden what with a job transfer for hubby, but lucky everything worked out. Like you, my son decided to stay behind to finish his schooling in NY. I’ve had my moments, but in the long run I think it is probably good for him {independence and all that}. Once he is done next Spring, he will be coming here to join us.

    Reply
  28. Good Time Charlie says

    July 13, 2012 at 12:50 AM

    Thank you for this extra fabulous party. I want to come sit on one of those porches, or maybe one of those talented ladies can come over and put those extra touches on mine!

    I got all misty eyed before I even read the story about the young man growing out his hair for locks of love. Wow, my eyes leak so easily in my old age!

    Reply
  29. Calypso In The Country says

    July 13, 2012 at 1:01 AM

    Beautiful features – thanks for hosting!
    -Shelley

    Reply
  30. Jenny@daysofchalkandchocolate says

    July 13, 2012 at 2:25 AM

    Love the features! And thanks for the party!

    Reply
  31. Amy Kinser says

    July 13, 2012 at 2:39 AM

    I love that you called it Hot-lanta. Us southern fold sure know what you are talking about. Atlanta is about 3 hours from me.

    Hope your move goes beautifully.

    Reply
  32. CAS says

    July 13, 2012 at 2:44 AM

    Thanks for hosting, ya’ll! Great features from last week!
    CAS

    Reply
  33. Karla says

    July 13, 2012 at 3:01 AM

    Thanks so much for the feature! It made my day! 🙂

    Reply
  34. Lisa at Shine Your Light says

    July 13, 2012 at 3:44 AM

    Thank you for hosting, Heather and Vanessa!

    Reply
  35. Sonya@Beyond the Screen Door says

    July 13, 2012 at 4:01 AM

    So glad to be able to party with you girls this week! Thanks so much for such a great party!

    Reply
  36. Lee Caroline says

    July 13, 2012 at 4:12 AM

    There is some fabulous ideas here today, I will be spending hours I can see, blog hopping. Great to see Kirsty’s office makeover, she is another “Kiwi” blogger (from New Zealand), we are a rare breed just like the Kiwi bird 🙂

    Thank you for hosting 🙂

    Lee

    Reply
  37. Courtney ~ French Country Cottage says

    July 12, 2012 at 10:18 PM

    Good luck with the move Heather!! Thanks for hosting girls!

    Reply
  38. Aleisha McD says

    July 13, 2012 at 8:20 AM

    Hello beautiful sisters!!! What a great party! You betcha I linked up. Gosh, and your blog is lovely too! Glad I found you. I’m your newest follower! https://callmemamaleisha.com

    Reply
  39. Jill says

    July 13, 2012 at 10:16 AM

    Atlanta blogger, here. Well, I live just north of Atlanta but you will find most people just say Atlanta to all those who are out of state. Can’t wait to have you here!

    Reply
  40. Laura @ cookiecrumbsandsawdust.blogspot says

    July 13, 2012 at 10:58 AM

    Hi Ladies,

    I don’t know why it took so long, but I’ve finally figured out how to serve cake and ice cream at kids’ parties -parfait style!

    Thanks for hosting and letting me share,
    Laura

    Reply
  41. must love junk says

    July 13, 2012 at 12:45 PM

    So many great features! Thanks for hosting 🙂
    Susan
    must love junk

    Reply
  42. Hollie - TheSevenYearCottage says

    July 13, 2012 at 1:31 PM

    As always, thank you for hosting!

    Reply
  43. Kerry Rossow says

    July 13, 2012 at 1:51 PM

    Holy Feature, fence girls! Thank you so much for sharing our stencil shenanigans!
    Can’t wait to go wild with y’all at Haven next year. I was just telling my hubs the story of Heather intervening for the woman at the bar only to discover it was the woman’s husband!
    Thank you for hosting, y’all!
    Kerry at HouseTalkN

    Reply
  44. allisamazing says

    July 13, 2012 at 2:13 PM

    What great features! Thanks for hosting 🙂

    Reply
  45. thistlewoodfarm says

    July 13, 2012 at 3:17 PM

    Everytime I visit over here I am inspired! First that table runner…..seriously…..it is calling my name. And then….the paper plate post? You are both such ROCK STARS!!!!!!!!!!

    blessings,
    karianne

    PS I made a facebook collage. Go me 🙂

    Reply
  46. Jenni@MomEssentials.Net says

    July 13, 2012 at 3:53 PM

    Hi there Inspiration Friday!
    Thanks for letting me share my own recipe of healthy, fabulously tasty, frozen yogurt!
    Here’s the link: https://www.momessentials.net/fabulous-family-frozen-yogurt/

    Reply
  47. Robin @ Happily Home, After says

    July 13, 2012 at 5:37 PM

    Such lovely features and so many link-up’s already this week … there’s a ton of inspiration available! Best wishes for the sale of your home and relocation, I’m sure you already have some great ideas your eager to try out when you’re in the new home. Been awhile since I’ve posted to this party but I enjoy visiting every time … thanks so much for allowing us all to join in the party fun.

    Robin
    happilyhomeafter.blogspot.com

    Reply
  48. Suzanne says

    July 13, 2012 at 5:46 PM

    I chuckled when I read about your move. WE’re trying to move from Georgia to Kentucky! Go figure!

    Reply
  49. Beth says

    July 13, 2012 at 6:02 PM

    I just want to THANK YOU for featuring my French-y Basket this week. That’s a HUGE deal for me & I see I’m among some awesomely talented company too!!

    I’m sure your move will be a great adventure that you will make the most of. Hoping the sale of your home goes smoothly & quickly. I’m sure you’ll make it look irresistible.

    Reply
  50. Heidi @ Decor & More says

    July 13, 2012 at 6:03 PM

    Wow!! Amazing features, girls! Heather, we will welcome you to the ATL with open arms, but you must not call it “Hot-lanta” ;-)… we’ve been trying to shake that nickname for YEARS!
    Seriously, I’m so excited you’ll be here and there is a great group of ATL bloggers that we’ve organized since Haven, so you’ll have lots of support and playmates!! Hoping your house sells quickly and easily and every thing else falls into place. We’ll have to have a WELCOME HEATHER party when you get here!!
    xo Heidi

    Reply
  51. Kathy says

    July 13, 2012 at 8:52 PM

    Happy Friday!! Love the features. Thank you bunches for hosting. 🙂

    Reply
  52. Susan (My Place to Yours) says

    July 13, 2012 at 9:09 PM

    Oh, goodness, Heather. I know EXACTLY how it feels to pour myself into a house remodel and then move (AND leave a child behind). But hey, you got a BHG experience out of it, so I’m not going to feel sorry for you! I do wish your family a smooth transition, though.

    Reply
  53. Laurel Stephens says

    July 13, 2012 at 10:24 PM

    What huge news about your move to Atlanta. All my best wishes for great and happy adventures ahead and an easy transition. I’m sure Kentucky will miss your family! Thank you for hosting your party today. It strikes me today that momentous events go on in peoples’ lives, and sometimes blogs remain a constant in all the chaos. 🙂

    Reply
  54. jinjee says

    July 14, 2012 at 12:13 AM

    thanks for hosting! i hope you enjoy my recipe!

    Reply
  55. Cherished Bliss says

    July 14, 2012 at 12:42 AM

    thanks for hosting and a HUGE HUGE thank you for featuring my Pink Lemonade Party!

    Reply
  56. Stuff and Nonsense says

    July 14, 2012 at 3:19 AM

    aren’t folks just
    so creative?

    love all the features
    and am so happy to party with you

    thanks for hosting!

    alison

    Reply
  57. Sonja @ practical-stewardship.com says

    July 14, 2012 at 5:59 AM

    Thanks so much for featuring my re-purposed snack bag tutorial!! This week I am sharing re-purposed clothes to scrunchies. https://practical-stewardship.com/2012/07/06/re-purposed-clothes-to-scrunchies-tutorial/ Thanks for hosting!!

    Reply
  58. Jessie @ Dream and Differ says

    July 13, 2012 at 11:01 PM

    Thanks for hosting! Great features this week! 🙂

    Reply
  59. The Kelley's says

    July 14, 2012 at 12:51 PM

    Thank you for featuring my inspiring story. Can’t wait to check out the other features too. God bless!

    Reply
  60. Tani@Tagana Rose says

    July 14, 2012 at 10:46 AM

    Thanks so much for hosting…….have a wonderful weekend:)

    Reply
  61. Mimi says

    July 14, 2012 at 9:25 PM

    Love the ruler table runner. How clever! Thanks for hosting! Have a wonderful weekend!

    Reply
  62. South Shore Decorating Blog says

    July 15, 2012 at 4:53 PM

    Thank you so much for the awesome linky!!!!
    Stacy

    Reply
  63. pronostic pmu says

    December 9, 2012 at 10:50 PM

    Thank you (excuse me, English is not my mother tongue), I find your article well structured, but I think you are biased in your approach to this issue. This is usually the case with this type of subject, the controversy is never far away. Regards, Roger

    Reply
  64. Hermine says

    April 5, 2013 at 1:31 PM

    The actual fact that almost all drip coffee makers brew coffee in the identical form, not all drip coffee brewers are really created equal!
    along with now many countless versions and additionally styles to select from it is crucial so that you can do some research
    . For centuries last and additionally since recently
    because the early 20th century, it was typical
    practice to provide ground coffee in order to liquid in the saucepan, bring it to
    a cook creating the coffee in order to permeate the water, .

    Reply

Trackbacks

  1. Wood Love Blocks - Spoonful of Imagination says:
    November 3, 2012 at 7:50 PM

    […] up at My Romantic Home’s Show and Tell Friday, The Frugal Girl’s Chic and Craft Party, At The Picket Fence, Redoux Interiors, Stuff and Nonsense, Common Ground, Transformation Tuesday at The Iron Nest, I […]

    Reply
  2. New Raw Recipe ~ Jinjee's Raw Pizza Extravaganza | The Garden Diet says:
    February 22, 2013 at 11:09 AM

    […] Inspiration Friday […]

    Reply
  3. Glass Etched Lemonade Pitcher says:
    February 27, 2013 at 5:22 PM

    […] Feature Friday Linky Party @ Blissful and Domestic Happy Hour Friday @ Happy Hour Projects Inspiration Friday @ At the Picket Fence Once Upon A Weekend Link Party @ Family Ever After  Friday Favs Party @ Nap […]

    Reply
  4. Stitched iPad Case says:
    February 27, 2013 at 5:27 PM

    […] Feature Friday Linky Party @ Blissful and Domestic Happy Hour Friday @ Happy Hour Projects Inspiration Friday @ At the Picket Fence Once Upon A Weekend Link Party @ Family Ever After  Friday Favs Party @ Nap […]

    Reply
  5. jumping the shark … says:
    April 28, 2013 at 8:28 AM

    […] Between Naps on the Porch *  Home Stories A 2 Z * At the Picket Fence […]

    Reply
  6. Trash Pickin Transformation says:
    May 22, 2013 at 6:18 PM

    […] Cottage Miss Mustard Seed Chic On A Shoestring Decorating Primitive & Proper DIY By Design At The Picket Fence The Dedicated House Common Ground Redoux Stuff and Nonsense The 36th Avenue Faded Charm Not Just a […]

    Reply
  7. So EASY To Style My Hair and with STYLE! says:
    February 22, 2014 at 11:21 PM

    […] Living Well, DIY Showoff, Intentional Me, Our Simple Country Life, Jill’s Home Remedies, At the Picket Fence, Best Post of the Week, Serenity Now, Comfy in the Kitchen, Finding […]

    Reply

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe Rating




Primary Sidebar

Search This Blog

Get the book!

Invite Vanessa to speak at your event!

Stay updated!

  • Simple Fall Decorating Ideas

    Simple Fall Decorating Ideas
  • Autumn Home Decor Tour

    Autumn Home Decor Tour
  • Apple Bread Pudding

    Apple Bread Pudding
  • Paper Bag Pumpkins

    Paper Bag Pumpkins

Sign Up and Never Miss A Post!

Must Reads

Latest Recipes

Strawberry Muffins with Lemon Glaze

Honey Tea Cake Loaf with Lemon Glaze

Apple Bread Pudding

view more recent recipes

Recent Posts

  • Neutral Hot Cocoa Station November 28, 2023
  • The Autumn Season of Motherhood October 18, 2023
  • Simple Fall Decorating Ideas September 14, 2023
  • Decorating a Sofa Table May 31, 2023
  • Strawberry Muffins with Lemon Glaze April 19, 2023

Footer

Stay Connected!

Instagram

The first weekend in December seems like a good ti The first weekend in December seems like a good time for my annual gentle reminder about this month. I don’t know about you but, for me, December is a month of mixed emotions, ranging from joy-filled moments to ones that have me wanting to pull my hair out.

There are so many expectations and we put so much pressure on ourselves to create magical memories. And for years I have felt the added weight of wanting to make sure my family had opportunities throughout the month to grow in their relationship with Christ.

We celebrate advent and read all of the appropriate Baby Jesus books and encourage a spirit of generosity and heavily emphasize the real reason for the season.

But sweet friends, I want to remind you today that one month out of the year does not a strong relationship with the Lord make. December doesn’t define our faith in Christ.

For our families or for us.

There are 11 other months in the year. 11 other months to live out our faith in front of our children. 11 other months to pray with them. 11 other months to help them wrestle through their questions and add depth to their walk with the Lord. 11 other months to encourage them to have generous spirits.

Let’s stop putting so much pressure on this one month out of the year. Let’s be surprised at the ways we might be able to celebrate the baby in the manger without a dozen countdown calendars. Let’s give our kids some grace when they are focused more on gifts because…well…they’re kids after all.

And while we’re at it, let’s give ourselves some grace too.

Grace when we think we should feel all the warm fuzzy feelings about Christmas but we really just want to take a nap. Or have a good cry. 

Grace that reminds us that this month will soon be over and we will have a brand new year ahead of us.

A new year filled with big moments and little moments and everything in between.

A new year to draw even closer to our Savior.

My hope for you is that, as you head into this season, you will be given fresh perspective and that you will give yourself (and your family) permission to just ‘be’. ✨
✨ The first Sunday of Advent is upon us and this ✨ The first Sunday of Advent is upon us and this year I created a super simple centerpiece for my dining room that incorporates the candles we will use each of the four weeks leading up to Christmas. While we will only light one candle each week, I used more than four so that the centerpiece would look a bit more filled in. In keeping with my goal to embrace a softer approach to my decorating, this arrangement works perfectly and helps to keep our focus on the beauty and the meaning  of the Advent season. For more ideas like this, check out my previous Advent post! ✨

#advent #adventcandles #simplechristmas #wearethehomemakers
In this season of motherhood, my soul is feeling a In this season of motherhood, my soul is feeling a bit more tender. When Christmas rolls around and I no longer have wish lists that include Lego sets or dollhouses, I find that I want my home to reflect this craving for all things gentle.

So our hot cocoa station this year is much more simple and done in a neutral color palette that just subtly blends in with the rest of the decor. It still feels festive and is definitely still “user friendly” but it’s just a bit less…well…less.

And, that’s ok. It’s not that this area won’t ever again have bright colors (maybe even pops of red!) but, right now I’m happy to have things this way.

With all that is going on in the world right outside our door, my desire is for our home to truly feel like a respite. I want it to be where we come and let our guard down, our heart rates slow and to be flooded with a sense of peace in knowing that here is where we can just simply be. I want it to be a place of rest. Rest from the constant onslaught of news and information. Rest from the seemingly small struggles of school and jobs that can so often feel like big struggles.

And, most importantly, we rest in the comfort of knowing the One who is Sovereign over all and is the reason this month is so very special and sacred.

Many blessings to you dear friends as we kick off this wonderful season! ✨
Next week is first Sunday of Advent. And contrary Next week is first Sunday of Advent. And contrary to popular belief, the celebration of Advent is VERY different from just simply doing a ‘countdown to Christmas’. It’s not about having little drawers filled with candy or doors to open with prizes inside. Those things are so much fun and definitely help to build anticipation as you head closer and closer to the big day.

But Advent, from the latin word ‘adventus’ meaning ‘arrival’ or ‘appearance’ keeps the focus completely on celebrating the arrival of the King who came in the form of an infant.

This is one of our favorite family traditions and over the years I’ve figured out how to incorporate the Advent candles into my decor without using the traditional wreath. I hope this gives you some ideas and inspiration as we head into this sacred season. 🌲

#advent #adventdecoration #wearethehomemakers
Why do I start decorating before Thanksgiving? Bec Why do I start decorating before Thanksgiving? Because it’s the Saturday after and my house is almost completely ready to start the season! So I’m sitting with my coffee and just soaking it all up knowing that now I can focus on shopping, hosting and preparing our hearts for the start of Advent. The only thing left to do is get our fresh tree for the front room and then the decorating is done. 

Starting early is a gift I give to myself and I’m always grateful for it! 🌲

#simplechristmas #traditionalchristmas
“I would maintain that thanks are the highest fo “I would maintain that thanks are the highest form of thought, and that gratitude is happiness doubled by wonder.” ~ G.K. Chesterton

Happy Thanksgiving to you and yours dear friends! 🍂
Christmas has arrived in the family room where I k Christmas has arrived in the family room where I keep things simple but festive! We’ll get a fresh tree after Thanksgiving which will go in our front room bay window but this slim faux tree with its colorful ornaments tides us over for now. Which room in your home gets the Christmas treatment first? Or do you just start doing a little at a time in each room? 🎄

*pillow covers are from @jshhomeessentials
I share this recipe every year because it’s JUST I share this recipe every year because it’s JUST.THAT.GOOD! 

And I have a confession ...I’d rather have cranberry sauce smothering the turkey on my plate than gravy any day!! And this, this right here? Well it’s the best (and easiest!) cranberry sauce ever!! I eat on crackers and sandwiches and sometimes just by the spoonful. It’s so yummy! And I’m just so very thankful for all of you that I’m going to leave the recipe right here instead of making you go to the blog to get it. I promise you won’t regret having this on your Thanksgiving menu but be warned...you may find yourself up in the middle of the night sneaking some helpings of this deliciousness. Or maybe that’s just me!

Ingredients:
2 pounds fresh or frozen cranberries
2 oranges
2 cups granulated sugar
1 cup white wine.

Instructions:
Wash and pick over berries, removing any that are soft. Peel and dice oranges removing any seeds. Combine all ingredients in a large pot. Bring to a full boil. Reduce heat and continue cooking until cranberries pop open and mixture is thickening.
For best flavor, prepare and let stand for several days before using.

Gobble, gobble!! 🦃
How do I want people to feel when they walk throug How do I want people to feel when they walk through my front door? That’s always at the top of my mind when I’m decorating my entry for each season, particularly at Christmastime. 

✨I want them to feel like my home is greeting them with a smile.

✨I want them to feel like this is a place where care has been given to details (but not to the point of being too stuffy or too busy or too overwhelming). 

✨I want them to feel like there is peace here.

✨I want them to feel like they are welcome…because they are. 

My home is a reflection of my heart and my heart is a reflection of the ONE for whom I live and try to honor and praise all of my days, but especially at Christmas.

How do you want people to feel when they come into your home? 

#christmasentry #simplechristmas #simplicity #wearethehomemakers
This is not a criticism of those who are sharing t This is not a criticism of those who are sharing their great new Christmas finds but rather an encouragement to those of you who are feeling a bit overwhelmed by it all and trying to resist the temptation to purchase more items than you really need.

Several years ago I felt a conviction in my heart about how much time and money I was spending on trying to create a new look every Christmas. I was not being a good steward of my resources and I was far too easily swayed by the peer pressure in this area. And a funny thing happened when I smashed this idol that had taken up residence in my heart. I suddenly found renewed joy in decorating for the season. By keeping things simple and maybe only buying something like a new spool of velvet ribbon, I actually realized that I could be far more creative reusing and repurposing what I already had.

In the coming weeks your news feeds will be filled with temptations for MORE. Maybe, this year, you too can find the joy in LESS. 🌲

#simplechristmas #simplicity #wearethehomemakers
Load More... Follow
Privacy Policy

Copyright © 2023 · Divine theme by Restored 316

Copyright © 2023 At The Picket Fence