Momathon Blog

Thank You Veterans!

🇺🇸 From sea to shining sea... ☀️ A heartfelt THANK YOU to all the men and women who have served this country and continue to serve. And thank you to their families. 🇺🇸

#veteransday #grateful #thankyouveterans

 

Every Vote Matters

One thing I know for sure: #everyvotematters.

Vote today if you can. And if you are going to vote tomorrow, MAKE A PLAN. Like, what time, know where to vote, how are you getting there, etc.

Vote for an America where we build bridges, not walls.

Together, let’s prove that love trumps hate. http://hillaryclinton.com/locate

#everyvotecounts #strongertogether #imwithher

 

Lovely Quotes

How has your week been so far? Here's hoping you have a lovely weekend. And just to make it even sweeter, why not throw a little kindness around too. xo Chris

(Quote graphic by Chris)

Weekend Inspiration: It's A Good Day

Flowers always bring me so much joy. I grow them in my garden and scoop up bouquets at the market. I'm loving this bunch of blooms from Whole Foods. Hope you are having a lovely weekend. xo Chris

Dreams Demand Hustle

Dreams demand hustle. Some days I feel like I'm pushing harder to get everything done than I want. However, I can say confidently that in the end, all that hard work does pay off. Each little step towards your dreams is an important part of the journey. 

That said, part of my journey has been supporting a cause near and dear to my heart. I donate 100% of my proceeds from this Society6 shop to the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research. 

Check out my Society6 shop for gifts that give back. You'll find my artwork on pillows, iPhone and laptop cases, hoodies, t-shirts and more. 

My shop: http://society6.com/chrisolson

// My Society6 shop: http://society6.com/chrisolson //

Thank You Veterans

A huge thank you to all the veterans and active duty servicemen and women who keep this country safe. God bless. 

  

Image: Keep Calm and Thank a Veteran art and photo above by me, Chris Olson

Happiness

Sending positive vibes your way. Time to take charge of your happiness.

I'm in charge of how I feel and today I'm choosing happiness.

xo Chris

// Photo and art © Chris Olson //

Romantic Love Quotes from Movies

What makes us fall in love? The clues may be in some of your favorite movies. For me, Nora Ephron's films are examples of some of the best modern romantic comedies. I've watched When Harry Met Sally so many times, I can recite many of the lines. Even the guys in her films are romantic...

"I love that you get cold when it's 71 degrees out. I love that it takes you an hour and a half to order a sandwich. I love that you get a little crinkle above your nose when you're looking at me like I'm nuts. I love that after I spend the day with you, I can still smell your perfume on my clothes. And I love that you are the last person I want to talk to before I go to sleep at night. And it's not because I'm lonely, and it's not because it's New Year's Eve. I came here tonight because when you realize you want to spend the rest of your life with somebody, you want the rest of your life to start as soon as possible."
—Harry Burns, When Harry Met Sally.

More favorite romantic quotes below, including Mr. Darcy, Pride and Prejudice; Sam Baldwin, Sleepless in Seattle; Melvin Udall, As Good As It Gets; Mac MacGuff, Juno; and Augustus, The Fault in Our Stars.

You must know... surely, you must know it was all for you. You are too generous to trifle with me. I believe you spoke with my aunt last night, and it has taught me to hope as I'd scarcely allowed myself before. If your feelings are still what they were last April, tell me so at once. My affections and wishes have not changed, but one word from you will silence me forever. If, however, your feelings have changed, I will have to tell you: you have bewitched me, body and soul, and I love, I love, I love you. I never wish to be parted from you from this day on."
—Mr. Darcy, Pride and Prejudice

"I knew it the very first time I touched her. It was like coming home... only to no home I'd ever known... I was just taking her hand to help her out of a car and I knew. It was like... magic."
—Sam Baldwin, Sleepless in Seattle.

“You make me want to be a better man.”
—Melvin Udall, As Good As It Gets

“In my opinion, the best thing you can do is find someone who loves you for exactly what you are. Good mood, bad mood, ugly, pretty, handsome, what have you.”
—Mac MacGuff, Juno

“I’m in love with you, and I’m not in the business of denying myself the simple pleasure of saying true things. I’m in love with you, and I know that love is just a shout into the void, and that oblivion is inevitable, and that we’re all doomed and that there will come a day when all our labor has been returned to dust, and I know the sun will swallow the only earth we’ll ever have, and I am in love with you.”
—Augustus, The Fault in Our Stars

 

Images: Image above by me, Chris Olson and feature my photos. Feel free to pin image on Pinterest with a link back to this post. Thanks!

 

Weekend Inspiration

Hi friends! How has your week been? Are you doing anything special this weekend? I'll be hiking with my dogs, checking out the farmer's markets, and going to the Colorado Rapids soccer game. Maybe I'll test a a new recipe or two. A nice salad medley sounds good to me. Enjoy the sunshine—and the sunsets! Hope your weekend is relaxing and fun. xo

Crafts: Make a Valentine Heart Pin

Looking for a fun craft for Valentine's Day? This heart pin is easy to make. Wear the heart as a pin or attach the heart to a postcard to create a personalized Valentine's Day card. For this craft I use felt as the heart structure and add embellishments using embroidery thread, beads, more felt hearts, sequins, and even recycled jewelry.

The dark pink heart uses medium-size pearl beads from a favorite bracelet that unfortunately broke one day. Instead of throwing away all those adorable beads I add a few here and there to craft projects. Easy peasy! See the complete directions below.

For this craft I used craft felt (or try any "Valentine-y" fabric scraps) as the heart structure. I added embellishments using embroidery thread, beads, more felt hearts, sequins, and even recycled jewelry. The darker pink heart used medium-size pearl beads from a favorite bracelet that unfortunately broke one day. Instead of throwing away all those adorable beads I added a few here and there to craft projects. Easy peasy! See the complete directions below. 

Directions: Mini Heart Pins

Supplies:

• Felt in a variety of colors: I am using white, dark pink, and light pink
• Embroidery thread
• Safety pin or other fastener
• Bead and sequins: I use a variety of round beads and heart-shaped beads
• Recycled jewelry beads or parts
• Sewing tools: needle, scissors, fabric marker
• Small amount of poly fill to make the tiny heart pillows

Directions

1. Create a heart shape pattern piece: You can draw the heart freehand--my hearts are approximately 2.25" wide. Or download my heart shape pdf here (Option-Click on macs). Cut out the paper heart shape to use as a pattern in step 3.
2. Place the felt or other fabric you use on a table.
3. Trace the paper heart shape pattern on the fabric using a fabric marker.
4. Repeat step 3 to make the back side of the pin.
5. Sew the two hearts together with embroidery thread using a straight stitch or blanket stich. For more help with the hand stitching. If you want a tutorial on blanket stitching, check out futuregirl's step-by-step tutorial for the Blanket Stitch and more sewing.
6. Leave small opening in the side to add poly fill, and then finish the sewing the edges together.
7. Add embellishments such as beads or additional felt shapes.
8. Attach a safety pin or other fastener to the back with embroider thread.

Image: HANDMADE HEART PINS TUTORIAL graphic are by me, Chris Olson. Feel free to Pin them on Pinterest with a link back to this post. Thanks!

 

FIND MORE INSPIRATION ON MY VALENTINE'S DAY PINTEREST BOARD

 

 

MLK Day

Celebrating the wisdom of Martin Luther King, Jr. on the blog today:  

"Life's most persistent and urgent question is:

'What are you doing for others?'"

(Artwork by Chris Olson over at Pattern Bliss.)

Free Printables: Holiday Gift Tags

Can you believe it!? It’s almost time friends—and I'm sure you didn't need me to remind you or anything! If you’re at all like me and a bit behind on the whole gift wrapping front, then this post is for you. I’ve designed a free printable holiday gift tag for you to download. Just click this link over at my design blog, download the love, print the tags—card stock paper works best—and get wrapping.

Happy Holidays! And let’s all keep the merry going! xo Chris

 

At My Shop: Gifts that Give Back

I  have a wonderful opportunity to team up with a foundation close to my heart. This December I am donating 100% of my proceeds from my Society6 shop to the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research. My shop is offering FREE worldwide shipping for a limited time. 

Shop and donate to charity at the same time when you purchase my products listed below including art prints, mugs, totes, and pillows.

CLICK HERE TO VISIT MY SOCIETY6 SHOP

You can also click on the images below to go directly to the items at my shop.

 

 

A) City Dogs {Shoe Diva} Throw Pillow: This Cocker Spaniel could be named Carrie. She loves her Jimmy Choo sandals. Original artwork by me, Chris Olson. Available in three sizes 16"x16" shown here and, 18"x18" and  20"x20".

B) Brown and White Dog framed art print. Available framed or no frame. Frame comes in a variety of styles and colors. 

 

C) City Dogs {Frenchies} Mug: Two French Bulldogs on a mug.

D) Daisy, the Greyhound Tote Bag: Daisy is a gentle and loyal dog. She wants nothing more than to be your companion—rain or shine. Original artwork by me, Chris Olson. Tote is available in three sizes 16"x16" shown here and, 13"x13" and  18"x18".

 

E) Dreams Demand Hustle tote bag. Available in three sizes 16"x16" shown here and, 13"x13" and  18"x18". This bag is hand sewn in America using durable, yet lightweight, poly poplin fabric. All seams and stress points are double stitched for durability. They are washable, feature original artwork on both sides and a sturdy 1" wide cotton webbing strap for comfortably carrying over your shoulder.

F City Dogs {Frenchies} T-Shirt: Two French Bulldogs on a t-shirt. A variety of colors and sizes available. Women and Men's sizes. as well as baby onesies. American Apparel Fine Jersey T-shirts are made with 100% fine jersey cotton combed for softness and comfort.

Respect, Honor, and Gratitude

THANK YOU to all veterans and active duty service men and women for your service and sacrifices. Blessings to you and your families. 

 

Seven Ways to Share Gratitude at Home

What makes a happy home? I'm sure it's different for every family because we come in all shapes and sizes. I must admit I'm not an expert here. I've witnessed plenty of chaos and more meltdowns than I want to admit at home. But through it all we have supported each other and, dare I say, even blossomed. And gratitude seems to be the common element that makes life the best. So here are seven ways to share gratitude—family tested and approved.

1) Ask family members about their day. Set down your smart phone and be fully present in the moment. Yep, that one is so simple you'd think it would be automatic. Hearing the stories from each of them opens doors to new discussions. Friendly conversation—no matter the topic—somehow begins to heal those disagreements that might have popped up yesterday.

2) List three good things that happened to you today. Ask your kids to name three. This has turned into a favorite bedtime ritual with my kids.

3) Write in a gratitude journal every day. You can even post your gratitude thoughts on social media. Snap a photo and hashtag it #gratitude and #thankful and post it on Instagram or Twitter.

4) When chaos hits the fan, then it's time to focus on your breathing. Close your eyes. Inhale slowly. Exhale slowly. Repeat. When you open your eyes again, acknowlegde that negative things happen in life and then turn your thoughts to how far you have come in life. It's a way to map the progress in your mind and appreciate the good in life. No matter how many screaming kids are running around you, never forget it only takes one calm person in a room to transform a whirlwind of activity—and even a typhoon of negativity—into gratitude. Share a smile. Give a hug.

5) Pick up the phone and call a friend or family member. The simple act of calling someone is a way of reaching out and showing you care about them. Checking in with someone shows your gratitude.

6) Volunteer. Find something you are passionate about and search for volunteer organizations that serve that need. Make it a family project or an individual project. Service to others brings each of us a new perspective on the world.

At the end of the day, the "stuff of life" that I am most thankful for is not something I can touch or hold in my hand. It never is something I can purchase. It's all about those memories—those moments that I treasure. Remember them. Write them down. Talk to your family about them. Replaying the movie in your head of those grateful moments can keep you going during those bleaker times.

7) Collect moments, not things. At the end of the day, the "stuff of life" that I am most thankful for is not something I can touch or hold in my hand. It never is something I can purchase. It's all about those memories—those moments that I treasure. Remember them. Write them down. Talk to your family about them. Replaying the movie in your head of those grateful moments can keep you going during those bleaker times.

The list of ways to share gratitude can go on and on. Gratitude seems to be the common element that makes life the best. Happy holidays.

IMAGE: All illustrations by me, Chris Olson. Feel free to pin image on Pinterest with a link back to this post. Thanks!

 

 

Halloween Costume and Decorating Tips

Looking for Halloween party ideas? How about an easy last-minute costume? Check out my Halloween Pinterest board for party ideas and costumes including: an easy costume DIY Spider Shades, Coffee-Filter Fairy Godmother No-Sew Halloween Costume, Chocolate Marshmallow Ghost cake, Scaredy-Cat Brownies,  Pumpkin Mouse Motel, Pumpkin Carving Templates, and much more.

Pinterest images with tips via: 1) Spider Shades; 2) Fairy Godmother; 3) Flower Costumes; 4) Halloween Chocolate Bar Printables; 5) Halloween cocktail; 6) Pumpkin carving templates; 7) Chocolate Marshmallow-Ghost Cake and Mini Cupcakes; 8) Scaredy-Cat Brownies Recipe; 9) Mouse Motel pumpkin

 

 

October is Adopt a Shelter Dog Month

October is Adopt a Shelter Dog Month! The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals and your local shelter invite you to visit a shelter and meet your new best friend.

Adopting a dog is a wonderful thing to do for the animal —and dogs help you in more ways than you might imagine. According to WebMD, a growing number of studies suggest kids growing up in a home with a cat or dog have less risk of allergies and asthma. Plus, heart attack patients who have pets survive longer than those without, according to several studies.

Did you know dog owners walk an average of 5 hours per week, while people without dogs walk only about 2 hours, 48 minutes? 

If you have every considered volunteering for an animal shelter like I do, then check out the article on the Rachael Ray blog, 5 Ways to be a Better Volunteer.

Pet adoption links:

• Dog Adoption Checklist - Petfinder
• What Kind of Dog is Right for You? - Petfinder
• House Training Your Puppy | ASPCA
• Best Friends Animal Society
• Top 10 Reasons to Adopt an Older Dog | ASPCA
• Should You Adopt a Puppy or an Adult or Senior Dog? - Petfinder
• National Dog Adoption Month - Can You Help?

 

We Must Have a Pie

 

Happy weekend! Here's my pick for a perfect handcrafted playlist for baking cookies, eating lots of pie, or doing dishes. Go ahead, pour a glass of pinot grigio and dance around the kitchen—it's the weekend! 

xo 

Chris

 

In the Kitchen from takesome_time on 8tracks Radio.

Image: WE MUST HAVE A PIE graphic by me, Chris Olson. Feel free to Pin it on Pinterest with a link back to this post. Thanks!

>•<  Connect on Facebook  >•<   

 

Summer Staycation

I live in a pretty amazing place so staying home this summer is really very nice. I mentioned in my last post that my daughter has her leg in a cast and the typical summer vacation spent at a pool or hiking in parks is not an option. So driving around town and soaking up the sights just like the tourists turns out to be kinda fun. The views only a few minutes from my home keep me coming back to this park.

Due to the change in my routine as nurse mom, I'm going to slow down a bit on the blog posts in order to keep up my design biz and also help my daughter. Plus, once she was in a cast I realized I had depended on her to do all sorts of helpful things at home—especially helping care for our three dogs. Now all of that is on my plate with some help from my husband too. 

Hope you are have a lovely week and I'll check back in soon. xo Chris

Images: Photos by me, Chris Olson. Feel free to pin on Pinterest with a link back to this post. Thanks!

Cabin Fever

Do you ever get cabin fever? This summer my daughter has her leg in a cast and that really makes summer plans less fun for her. So I'm dreaming up some plans to keep her busy while keeping her leg safe and her cast out of trouble.

She loves photography so perhaps spending some time playing around with Adobe Lightroom and Photoshop is one thought. She has a knack for capturing a moment that tells a story—like the image below of me wandering in a beautiful park and somehow finding it necessary to stare at my iPhone...

And I need to think up a road trip or two to keep her from going crazy indoors. And I'm sure we will enjoy a few smoothies.

 

Looking for more ways to beat cabin fever?

Summer TV Swaps: 10 July Series to Try If You Like... 

Skillshare: Online classes to fit your schedule from industry leaders

31 Great Summer Books | RealSimple.com

 

Images: Photo 2 by Kira. Photo 1 and 3 by me, Chris Olson. 

Craft Books: Sewing with Sarai Mitnick at Colette Patterns

Summer is a perfect time for crafting. For me, finding a great craft book will always be a wonderful source of DIY ideas. One of my sources of inspiration are the "little sewing epiphanies" via Sarai Mitnick at Colette Patterns and the Colette Sewing Handbook.

Mitnick's Colette Sewing Handbook is an amazing guide for sewers of almost any skill level to create your own unique wardrobe: 

"Five simple fundamentals can help you perfect any sewing project: a thoughtful plan, a precise pattern, a fantastic fit, a beautiful fabric, and a fine finish. With these five core ideas,The Colette Sewing Handbook shows you how to start sewing the wardrobe of your dreams."  

You can get the latest Facebook updates from Sarai Mitnick at her page Colette Patterns. Some of her recent Facebook posts include tips on clipping curves, vintage sewing, painting your upholstery, and how she organizes her fabric stash using swatch tags. She even includes a free template you can download. 

I'm a fan of the classic lines of Colette patterns. My favorite patterns by Sarai are the double-breasted Anise jacket and the simple slim Clover pants—so amazing because they both go with practically anything. (See images above.) Sarai even ranks the sewing level needed for her patterns. The jacket is best for intermediate level sewers and the pants are beginner and above skill level. 

Even though Sarai's sewing handbook says on the cover it is for the new seamstress, I think the detailed information she gives about how to finish a garment places it on the must-have list for sewers of ANY skill level.

IMAGES: The sweet double-breasted Anise jacket and Clover pants via Colette Patterns.

 

Summer Colors: Minnesota

I'm soaking up the amazing colors of summer in Minnesota this week.

 

Location: Westwood Hills Nature Center, St. Louis Park, MN. The nature center is located just south of I-394 and east of Highway 169. Parking and admission are free.

Things to do: Hike around the lake and over marshland on footbridges.

Nature highlights: The preserve is beautiful throughout the seasons and provides homes for many animals including deer, fox, mink and owls. Westwood Naturalists conduct year-round programs to increase visitors understanding and appreciation of our natural world.

Check it out online: www.westwoodhillsnaturecenter.org

 

 

 

Posted with Blogsy

T.F.I.O.S. {Read the Book and See the Movie}

Can a short life be a full life? And if you knew your days were numbered, would you be the one with the courage to make it the bigger than you imagined possible? 

When author John Green writes about Hazel Grace Lancaster and Augustus Waters in the The Fault in Our Stars, you might be tempted to think this is just a tragic love story about lives cut short. Afterall, the 16-year-old narrator Hazel, has been battling thyroid cancer since age 13 and the two meet in a cancer support group. 

So what is the story? I think book reviewer Rebecca Rosen said it best: This is a book that breaks your heart -- not by wearing it down, but by making it bigger and bigger until it bursts. As Hazel says:

“There are infinite numbers between 0 and 1. There's .1 and .12 and .112 and an infinite collection of others. Of course, there is a bigger infinite set of numbers between 0 and 2, or between 0 and a million. Some infinities are bigger than other infinities. A writer we used to like taught us that. There are days, many of them, when I resent the size of my unbounded set. I want more numbers than I'm likely to get, and God, I want more numbers for Augustus Waters than he got. But, Gus, my love, I cannot tell you how thankful I am for our little infinity. I wouldn't trade it for the world. You gave me a forever within the numbered days, and I'm grateful.”

So go ahead, read the book, and go see the movie. And make a toast to "Good life."

 

 

Image: Collage above by me, Chris Olson. Feel free to pin on Pinterest with a link back to this post. Thanks!

 

How to Select the Perfect Table for Your Home

Every home is unique. To match your needs with the best table check out the ideas in the photo below.

Looking for more decorating ideas, check out more of my Decor crush posts.

Image by Chris Olson featuring the Oslo Table via Crate and Barrel.

Container Gardens: Grow Your Own Salad Greens

If you want an easy garden project salad greens grow well in a container garden. Plant the seeds in a pot that has several small holes in the bottom so the plants do not become water logged. Lettuce tolerates a variety of conditions, but they do need a healthy dose of sunshine every day. Try to keep the plants away from an area that is too shady. 

You can grow yummy salad greens right on your patio or deck in a container garden. No need to go to a gourmet market, these specialty baby greens will grow in your backyard for a fraction of the cost. I add my fresh greens to sandwiches, salads, cold pasta, chicken and tuna.

I like a variety of textures in my salad so when I plant mini gardens in containers on my deck I include several lettuce plants including:

Lolla Rossa: A classic green in Italian salads, this red, heavily frilled leaves provide loft, texture, and color. I also love the fact it's a "cut-and-come-again" green—if you pick the outer leaves, the plant will continue to grow. Given the right conditions, this type of lettuce will produce leaves for three months or more. Plus the plant does well in summer heat and in the cold.

Red Oakleaf: Delicate sweet flavor and a rich red color with notched leaves make this a good addition to the kitchen garden

Rouge d'Hiver: An old French variety with medium-red tinted leaves and excellent taste. Good regrowth. Tolerant to cold, but avoid hot weather. Sweet taste, not bitter.

Green Salad Bowl: Light-green, long, wavy, deeply notched leaves are one of my favorite for it's sweetness and tenderness. It does not get bitter when it matures. Plant tolerates hot weather too.

Black Seeded Simpson: A reliable lettuce with bright green leaves produces tender and sweet leaves. This fast growing lettuce produces greens over a long period of time

Buttercrunch: A mild and sweet buttery-flavored lettuce with rich green leaves—sometimes tinged with red—and forms a beautiful rosette. Thi Bibb-type lettuce is easy to grow and tolerates heat—that's one reason why it grows well in a container garden.

 

Images: Instagram photos above by me, Chris Olson. Feel free to pin images on Pinterest with a link back to this post. Thanks!

12 Gift Ideas for Mother's Day

May 11th is Mother's Day. Have you picked out something special the moms in your life? Here are 12 ideas that I love.

1) Wonderful World greeting card set, The Wheatfield on Etsy

2) Lavender Lemon candles, Phoster Candles

3) Mom Said So idiom pendant, Kate Spade New York

4) Ellison sunglasses, Warby Parker

5) eKO Lite Lightweight Yoga & Pilates Mat, Manduka.com

6) Summer Shift, Boden

7) Charity Pot body lotion, LUSH Cosmetics

8) Maxed Out Hooded Zip Through, Lorna Jane US Site

9) Pivoine Flora hand cream, L'OCCITANE en Provence

10) Show Stopper woven tote, Nine West

11) Correa - Jonathan Adler sandal, TOMS  @ Nordstrom

12) Happy Booster™ Glow & Mood Boosting Blush, Physicians Formula

Spring Fever in a Skiing Paradise

Living in Colorado has its perks. Many of the best ski resorts are only a short drive away. Nearby Breckenridge is a skier's paradise—offering terrain for all levels of skiers. Breckenridge was the second-most popular ski resort in the nation last year in skier visits and right behind Vail Resort in the top of the charts spot. 

Only 90 minutes west of Denver, this family-oriented resort grew by almost 25 percent in the 2013-14 ski season. The newest additon to Breckenridge is Peak 6 on the far north end of the ski resort. The expansion includes 543 acres of new skiable terrain. 400 acres of the expansion on Peak 6 are lift-served by the high-speed six-passenger Kensho Superchair reaching an elevation of 12,302 and the four-passenger chair Zendo that begins at the base of Peak 6. With intermediate runs named Bliss, Nirvana, Daydream, Delirium and Rapture, the lower portion of Peak 6 aims to please with a playground of trails. 

For those expert skiers and cardio junkies out there, you can experience truly amazing double black diamond and EX (extreme double black diamond) runs in the upper Serenity Bowl, The Sixth Senses Bowl, and Beyond Bowl. The three expert bowls cover the remaining 100-plus acres in Peak 6. To reach the summit bowls high above the Kensho Superchair, you must balance your skis on your shoulder and hike about 20 minutes up to the timberline topping ridge. I admit I didn't hike to the top, I let my son Kai get the workout. Plus, he out skis me. Kai and his friends make the trek to the top for some heartpounding plunging runs in powder or packed powder depending on the weather that week. The top ridge isn't for the snow-plow or grooomed cruisers crowd—the slope angle at the top is about 50 degrees with rock ridges cutting through the white stuff. 

Even if you don't climb to the top, Peak 6 offers amazing Rocky Mountain vistas and views of the town of Breckenridge and nearby Lake Dillon. Below the two high bowls on Peak 6 are a mix of blue intermediate and expert runs.

If you are looking for more mellow and less adrenaline in your Breck ski experience, check out Peak 7's crusier runs or Peak 9 for beginners. Peak 8 has a bit of everything— terrain parks, groomed beginner runs and above-the-tree line expert terrain. You can take the T-Bar on Peak 8 up to Pika, Ptarmigan, White Crown and Forget-Me-Not to experience some wide-open bowls with stunning views. Peak 10 has longer runs for expert and intermediate skiers. The longest run at the resort is Four O'Clock and it winds 3.5 miles from mid mountain and down into the condo villages below.

A great town with even better skiing

Way back in 1859 a small group of prospectors founded the town of Breckenridge, Colorado. The town’s Gold Rush brought droves of settlers seeking their fortunes. The town sits at an elevation of 9,603 feet (2,927 meters). The summit tops at 12,998 feet (3,962 meters). 

According to SKI Magazine:

"The circa-1850 mining town is reason enough to visit, no doubt helping to earn the resort a no. 6 ranking in Après, no. 9 in Dining and no. 7 in Off- Hill Activities—check Riverwalk Center for concerts and shows. But that’s all just gravy. The skiing is what matters, and Breck’s 2,358 acres really do have it all."

Getting to the ski area is as easy as stepping out of your ski-in/ski-out slopeside lodging or hopping on the scenic BreckConnect gondola that spans the nearly 7,600 feet between the base of Peak 8 and downtown Breck.

See Breck via 24/7 Breck Mountain Cams

Breckenridge Mountain Cams are updated every 5 minutes throughout the day from 6:00AM to 3:55PM. 

 

 

Images: The top two Breckenridge photos are by my son Kai Olson and the third photo is by me, Chris Olson. Feel free to pin image on Pinterest with a link back to this post. Thanks!

A Sunny Urban Oasis in Linden Hills

Just so everybody knows... It's March and it's not warm and sunny in Minneapolis today. But I found this photo taken during much warmer days and decided I needed to talk about this sweet and sunny shop.

I've posted about Linden Hills before (here and here) and I love this charming neighborhood in southwest Minneapolis. It was my neighborhood before I moved west to Colorado. Back in my midwest days, I lived in a house only a short walk away from Lake Harriet.  

So let's take another look at some reasons you might want to check out this area. Linden Hills has a variety of shops. One of my faves is Brown & Greene Floral Market. The shop has a wide selection of plants and if you are looking for gift ideas you will also find cards, candles and French soaps. Classes in garland-making and arranging are available at the shop.

You can find the flower shop at West 44th Street and Chowen Avenue on my illustrated map below. Be sure to schedule your visit at lunch time and then walk across the street to Turtle Bread Bakery for soup and sandwiches. And of course, buy some bread to take home! Of course, if you want something sweet, head over to Sebastian Joe's Ice Cream shop for homemade ice cream and fresh coffee.

Images: Photo of Flower shop and Illustrated Map of Linden Hills are by me, Chris Olson. Feel free to pin image on Pinterest with a link back to this post. Thanks!

 

 

The Oscars 2014 {Charlize Theron on the Red Carpet}

Earlier this week I sketched Lupita Nyong’o in a softly fitted gown by Prada in a lovely “Nairobi blue.” Charlize Theron also tops my best-dressed list in a sexy black Christian Dior haute couture gown with a plunging neckline.

Last year I featured Charlize in a stunning in a white Christian Dior Haute Couture dress with Harry Winston jewelry. You can find more of my red carpet sketches here and here.

 

 

Images: Illustrations of Oscars 2014/2013 and Golden Globes featured are by me, Chris Olson. Feel free to pin image on Pinterest with a link back to this post. Thanks!

Charlize Theron at the Oscars in 2013

Jennifer Lawrence at the Oscars 2013

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Jennifer Lawrence at the Golden Globes 2014

Caitlin Fitzgerald at the Golden Globes 2014

 

Oscars 2014 {Red Carpet Sketches}

Before I talk about the fabulous gowns at the Oscars, I have to say I loved host Ellen DeGeneres' opening monologue and her low-key approach to the show -- including ordering pizza and that star power selfie that famously shut down Twitter! And I think Lupita Nyong'o gave one of the best acceptance speeches I've ever heard. 

One reason I watch the Oscars is to see all the fabulous gowns. Last night the celebs rocked the red carpet. While watching the awards I started sketching my favorite dresses.

Lupita Nyong'o was stunning in her pleated custom-made Prada gown with deep plunging neckline. She reminded me of a goddess in her light blue dress. On the red carpet she gave some backstory on why she chose this dress, "It's a blue that reminds me of Nairobi. It's a little bit of home." The sparkly Fred Leighton 18kt gold-and-diamond headband and crescent diamond earrings were the perfect touch.

I'll be back during the week updating my #Oscars2014 series with more sketches. Check back later :)

My weekend included some quality time with the puppies
In case you were wondering about all my pupppy photos and movies on Instagram, I was volunteering this weekend at my favorite animal shelter. Lots of fun. Lots of puppy kisses. And even hugs from the sweetest Pit Bull ever. 

 Meet Dolly the Pit Bull and Gilligan the Poodle mix from the adoption fair. Too cute!

 

 

Images: #OTRC Illustrations of Academy Awards fashions featured above by me, Chris Olson. Feel free to pin image on Pinterest with a link back to this post. Thanks!

 

 

 

In My Dreams: Little Tuscany in Colorado

It's not quite sunny and 70 here today in Colorado. A fresh 6 inches of the white stuff blankets my neighborhood this morning, but I am stil hopeful about warmer days ahead. Found the photo of a neighbor's home that I took months ago and something about the sun baking on the rock wall and the warm terracotta tiles makes me at least dream about spring.

 

Part of the old world charm of Tuscan landscaping is the invitation to stop, sit, stay awhile. A bench under a tree makes the outdoor space inviting. Landscaping like the home above includes a native plant garden and that often means a low-water garden. Sunflowers, poppies, ornamental grasses, and lavender are common both here and in Tuscany. Using drought toleranting plantings in place of the lawn adds beauty and saves on water. It's estimated that in some dryer parts of the coutry nearly half of a household's water supply is used for watering the lawn.  Before I moved here I had no idea that xeriscaping and drought tolerant plantings could be so beautiful.

 

Illustration: Photo above by me, Chris Olson. Feel free to pin image on Pinterest with a link back to this post. Thanks!

 

Live Your Best Life

 

"In the end, it's not the years in your life that count. It's the life in your years" ~ Abraham Lincoln. 

On Presidents' Day and every day, the quote by Lincoln is sound advice.

 

 

Illustration: Graphic above featuring the quote by our 16th President is by me, Chris Olson. Feel free to pin image on Pinterest with a link back to this post. Thanks!

 

22 Unexpected Love Songs on My Playlist

Here are 22 favorite—but not so typical—love songs on my playlist. It's a perfect soundtrack for Valentine's Day or an anniversary. Oh yeah, I added a few alternative songs if romance is the last thing on your list—because we know that sometimes falling in love can be both the best time and the most difficult time.  xo, Chris

Click on the links and you can hear the songs in iTunes preview:

• La Vie En Rose (from the show How I Met Your Mother) - Single by Cristin Milioti
• She's Beautiful - Darius Rucker - Charleston, SC 1966
• Anyone At All - Carole King - You've Got Mail
• Escape (The Pina Colado Song) - Rupert Holmes- Partners in Crime
• Same Changes - The Weepies - Single by The Weepies
• I Do Adore - Mindy Gledhill - Anchor
• How Long Will I Love You - Ellie Goulding - About Time
• If I Had You - Willie Nelson & Diana Krall - American Classic by Willie Nelson
• You Send Me - Sam Cooke - Greatest Hits by Sam Cooke
• Bendita Tu Luz - Single by Maná
• She - Sound-a-like Cover - A Tribute to Notting Hill
• The Time of Times - Badly Drawn Boy: Born In the UK
• Wherever You Will Go - The Calling: Camino Palmero
• Have I Told You Lately That I Love You - Van Morrison - Still On Top
• All You Need Is Love - The Beatles: 1
• I Will Always Love You - Whitney - The Greatest Hits
• Love Is Here to Stay - Harry Connick, Jr.: When Harry Met Sally
• You're the First, the Last, My Everything - Barry White:  Can't Get Enough
• You Are the Sunshine of My Life - Stevie Wonder: The Definitive Collection
• Running Around In My Dreams - Tyrone Wells: Metal & Wood
• Have a Little Faith in Me - John Hiatt: Greatest Hits - The A&M Years '87-'94
• L-O-V-E - Nat King Cole

 And then some totally love-ly but unromantic heart songs:

• Red (2013 CMA Awards Performance) - Featuring Taylor Swift, Alison Krauss, Edgar Meyer, Eric Darken, Sam Bush & Vince Gil
• Please Don't Leave Me - P!nk - Funhouse (Deluxe Version)
• Callin' Me When I'm Lonely - Sheryl Crow Feels Like Home
• Free Me - Joss Stone: Colour Me Free
• Let It Hurt - Rascal Flatts - Changed (Deluxe Edition)
• Strip Me - Natasha Bedingfield: Strip Me
• Love Song - Sara Bareilles: Little Voice
• Rolling in the Deep - Adele:  21

 

 

Illustration: Heart Rocks image above by me, Chris Olson. Feel free to pin image on Pinterest with a link back to this post. Thanks!

 

 

 

You Go Girl!

Is it cold and dreary in your neighborhood? Here's a little sunny motivation to help you make this a truly awesome day... And weekend!

 

Illustration: Image above by me, Chris Olson, features a flower from my garden and one of my favorite phrases. Feel free to pin image on Pinterest with a link back to this post. Thanks!

 

Happy Birthday, Facebook!

Back in 2004 on February 4th, Mark Zuckerberg launched thefacebook.com in his Harvard dorm room. The social media platform has grown from a small campus website to something it seems like just about everyone has joined or at least talks about. One thing is for sure, Facebook has changed the way many of us communicate.

With each status update—from the highly personal over sharing kind and to the more generic stuff—you Facebook helps you form connections with friends and family. As Hanna Ingber at  the NYTimes put it so well, "Facebook has become an elementary tool of modern life — a repository for the minutiae of everyday interactions, photographs, news and personal announcements like engagements and new jobs."

How has your life changed since you joined Facebook? To celebrate the big birthday, thanks to the folks at Facebook, you can see a personalized video of your posts. Take a "Look Back" at what you've been up to while you've been on Facebook—a video featuring 15 or more of your most-liked photos, statuses, and life events, set to music. Check out your personalized video by Facebook here.

 

Images: Facebook 10th Birhday illustration featured above by me, Chris Olson. Feel free to pin image on Pinterest with a link back to this post. Thanks!

 

 

Valentine's Day Gifts Under $25: Stamped Coffee Spoons

Imagine this sweet vintage silverplated spoon that says "you are loved" in your morning cuppa jo.  I'm thinking this is a perfect little Valentine gift—or a sweet shower/wedding gift idea too.

This spoon is available at the lovely Etsy shop Milk and Honey Luxuries. At this shop you'll find a variety of sayings hand stamped by Sarah Parker at her home studio. Too many cute spoons to pick just one.

 

Here are the Etsy links to a few of my faves available at Milk and Honey Luxuries: 

You Are Loved

Love You More

Coffee now... WINE later

Laugh Often

You Are My Happy

The Best Is Yet To Come

Red Carpet Fashion Sketches {Taylor Swift at the Grammys}

Did you have a favorite gown from the Grammys? Every year at the Grammys, the ladies sizzle on the red carpet with some of the most sensational and over-the-top looks of the year. This year the gowns on the red carpet had plenty of shine and sparkle even though they seemed a bit more subdued than past years. Can't pick just one look as the best because so many were fabulous. I think Taylor Swift's shimmering column dress absolutely rocked. Who knew chainmail could look so glamorous? 

Here are the details on Taylor's red carpet look I sketched above: She wore a Gucci Premiere gold lamé, short-sleeve fitted gown featuring a crystal mesh overlay. I loved the details on this gown—especially the crystal gemstone sparkly detail at the T-shirt neckline—and also at her arms and waist. Of course I can't leave out the bling and the shoes: Lorraine Schwartz diamond earrings and Jimmy Choo Mariah platform heels. She looked perfect with her hair pulled back in a side-parted pony tail.

Although Taylor Swift didn't take home a Grammy for  Album of the Year for Red, her ballad performance later in the program was pure perfection. She wore a beaded dove-gray gown with sequin detailing and a flowing train streaming out behind her as she sat at the piano and played her song "All Too Well."

 

Images: Illustration of Taylor Swift at the Grammys featured above by me, Chris Olson. Feel free to pin image on Pinterest with a link back to this post. Thanks!

 

 

Red Carpet Fashion Sketches {Jennifer Lawrence at Golden Globes}

American Hustle star Jennifer Lawrence really nailed the styling at the Golden Globes. She kept her makeup simple yet glamorous with a deep crimson lip and dark lined eyes. Her emerald and diamond earrings by Neil Lane top my list for best bling at the Golden Globes. They showed off her jade eyes. She also wore two stunning bracelets and a huge ring.

So happy Jennifer took home a Golden Globe for Best Supporting Actress in American Hustle.

Check back for more of my sketches from the runway all week.

 

Images: Illustration of Jennifer Lawrence at Golden Globes featured above by me, Chris Olson. Feel free to pin image on Pinterest with a link back to this post. Thanks!

 

 

 

Red Carpet Fashion Sketches {Caitlin FitzGerald at Golden Globes}

The gorgeous baby blue gown by Emilia Wickstead caught my eye immediately on the red carpet. With a 50s vibe, this short-sleeved gown with a igh neckline was the perfect retro style for the Caitlin FitzGerald, star of the saucy Masters of Sex. 

 

I love the glam high-low silhouette worn by Caitlin and it was a trending at the Golden Globes. Zooey Deschanel wore a sparkly embroidered crop top and asymmetrical skirt by Oscar de la Renta. Michelle Dockery swore a high-low, embroidered gown designed by Oscar de la Renta with champagne and gold sequins.

Check back for more of my sketches from the runway all week.

 

Images: Illustration of Caitlin FitzGerald at Golden Globes featured above by me, Chris Olson. Feel free to pin image on Pinterest with a link back to this post. Thanks!

Red Carpet Fashion Sketches {Amy Adams at Golden Globes}

The fashions at the Golden Globes were extra glamorous—and all about the lovely women. My first sketch features Amy Adams wearing a neck-plunging Valentino gown in two tones of red. I thought the halter gown was perfect for her with a slim silhouette and sexy neckline that made me think of the '70s styles of her character in the movie American Hustle. 

Congrats to Amy for winning best actress in a comedy or musical. I'm crossing my fingers for an Oscar nomimation for Amy too. Check back for more sketches all week.

 

Images: Illustration of Amy Adams at Golden Globes featured above by me, Chris Olson. Feel free to pin image on Pinterest with a link back to this post. Thanks!

 

 

 

Happy Weekend!

Some things that caught my eye this week:

• Procrastinators, take note: new approach to stop procrastinating focuses on "mood repair."
• Beyond the selfies... Who knew that you can make your face (digitally) unforgettable?
• They are hiring new editors over at The Everygirl—Beauty Editor, Food Editor, Fashion Editor.
• Great inspiration for designers/illustrators over at the new The Textile Design Lab
by my talented friends at Pattern Observer.

Have a lovely weekend.

 

Image: Skiing graphic by me, Chris Olson. Feel free to pin it on Pinterest with a link back to this post. Thanks!

 

 

 

 

Art Files: Cupcakes

One of my favorite things to do in a new city is visit the places the locals love. Sometimes it's as easy as walking down the sidewalk and looking in restaurant windows or following a line of people that wraps around a corner because they want the ultimate cupcake.

This cupcake illustration was inspired by a favorite NYC bakery of mine. And, yes, the line to get inside wrapped around the building and down the block. The wait was worth every minute.

 

Image: Cupcakes art by me, Chris Olson. Feel free to pin it on Pinterest with a link back to this post. Thanks!

Kid-Friendly Ideas for Writing Thank You Notes

 

 

Gather your kids around the table with pre-made cards or colorful card stock paper -- or keep it simple with basic construction paper. Include plenty of fun pencils, markers, and stickers. Writing a sweet card is all about sharing a real expression of thanks.

Do you want to make your own card? First match up the card + envelope. Find a suitable envelope to fit your hand-made cards. You can trim the paper first to fit the envelope. If you only have the commercial size envelopes, get creative and make two folds on the card stock paper to create an accordion style note card with the 8.5" x 11" paper.

Decorate the cards

One fun idea is to print up some favorite family photos. Go ahead and use your inkjet printer. The photos will turn out great even if you use standard paper, but I think using paper that's just just a bit heavier than standard paper works the best. If you have photo paper, that's fantastic. However, don't worry about the materials—the goal is to just have fun! Help your kids cut out the photos and use a glue stick to place them on the card in an arrangement your kids like. Do they like scrapbook or collage style? Or maybe they prefer just one photo per card and want to add embellishments with their own doodles. If you have photos of your child with the gift they are writing about, include it on the card.

Write the thank you

If you have very young kids, one of the easiest ideas uses the simple fill-in-the-blank format. For example, you can write out the following on the card and have your kids complete the message.

Dear _______________,

Thank you for the __________________________.

I like it because ___________________________ .

Love, _______________________

 

Have fun!

 

Image: Thank You Note graphic by me, Chris Olson. Feel free to Pin it on Pinterest with a link back to this post. Thanks!

 

 

 

 

 

Hello, 2014!

I'm organizing my desk for 2014. Of course, that means first finishing up a few design projects and having fun with paint. I'm crossing my fingers for another big snow this weekend. I've got hot cocoa and ski slopes on my mind.

Hard to believe my blogging vacation is almost over. Momathon Blog will return to normal posting beginning Monday, January 6th!

As a new year begins, I am counting my blessings.
And you, dear friends, are just the ones who make my days so sweet.
Happy New Year!

IMAGE: Colors Graphic and photo of my desk by me, Chris Olson. Feel free to pin image on Pinterest with a link back to this post. Thanks! 

Have a Wonderful Weekend!

The month of December is zipping by so quickly. We still have 11 days left this month. I'm thinking it's time to SLOW down and spend some time enjoying each day—even those crazy moments frantically shopping at the mall, spilling flour all over the floor while baking cookies, or falling asleep on the couch watching White Christmas with the kids and the dogs... These are the moments we just might end up smiling about when we think back on our holiday. 

Wishing you many memorable holiday moments with friends and family.

Peace and love. xo Chris

 

Image: Flower photo and Peace graphic by me, Chris Olson. Feel free to Pin it on Pinterest with a link back to this post. Thanks!

Holiday Gift Box Printables {Vintage Santa and Reindeer}

Need a last-minute gift box? I designed two little Christmas gift boxes featuring vintage artwork for you to print. The pillow-shaped gift boxes are easy as pie to assemble. Perfect for tucking a little gift inside for for neighbors, postal workers, coaches or teachers.

The gift boxes are just the right size for holding a gift card or small gifts like jewelry or magnets. Each box fits on a 8.5"x11" sheet of paper. You can also scale down the size of the box when printing to make a smaller box if you want. Simply print off the the free printable template at the link that follows, cut it out and double-side tape it together. Link to the printable and directions for gift box assembly after the jump.

Holiday Classics: Elf

What are your favorite movies to watch during the holidays? The movie Elf keeps climbing up the list at my house. Not sure if it is in the top spot but it is hovering near #1. 

This time of year you can't escape the sweet treats. I'm loving the Chocolate-Filled Peppermint Snaps at Williams-Sonoma featured above. 

 

Image: Graphic above by me, Chris Olson, features Chocolate-Filled Peppermint Snaps from Williams-Sonoma. Feel free to Pin it on Pinterest with a link back to this post. Thanks!

 

 

Stop and Smell the Snowflakes

How are you doing today? Have you stopped to smell the snowflakes? I admit this sounds ridiculous at first glance, but perhaps you will be surprised by how wonderful it can be for your mood to go outside and breathe in the winter air.

Of course, if you have a dog, I'm sure he or she would agree with me.

Have a lovely weekend. xo Chris

 

Image: Photo and graphic by me, Chris Olson. TFeel free to Pin it on Pinterest with a link back to this post. Thanks!

 

Because I Love Dogs...

I am delighted to have my artwork and my Etsy shop featured in a collection of "gallery-level pet portraits" in the PopSugar post Stylish Pet Portraits by editor Miranda Jones. Sending a huge thank you to Miranda and the editors at PopSugar.

I love dogs and pretty much anything pet related. So recently I have been adding items to my new Etsy shop PetLoveDesigns. Stop on by and check out my custom pet portraits, pet art prints, pillows and more.

 

Image: Photos by me, Chris Olson. Feel free to Pin it on Pinterest with a link back to this post. Thanks!

 

 

Encouraging Words on a Monday {Christopher Robin to Pooh}

I don't think we ever get too old to read to A.A. Milne and the advice Christopher Robin gave Winnie-the-Pooh:

“Promise me you'll always remember: You're braver than you believe, and stronger than you seem, and smarter than you think.”

 

Image: Wisdom by Winnie the Pooh. Art by me, Chris Olson. The role of Pooh played by the handmade and much-loved Honey Bear. Feel free to Pin it on Pinterest with a link back to this post. Thanks!