life lately

We don't often get time to squeeze in extracurricular design work...but then again, what's our curriculum anyway? I guess we jump around a lot (work-wise that is...we don't have the same youthful fervor for literal jumping around anymore:) But things like this recent little project are few and far...but when we do get to do them it's a total pleasure. Our friend, the very talented folk artist Robert Brawley, had asked us for a portrait style logo design much like the little painting of me and Aaron on our 'About' button. He sent us some pics and ideas for color, and because he too is an artist and knows that leeway is an artist's best friend, he left the rest up to us. Aaron had a great time doing the little portrait with Robert and his pup. Once Aaron sits down to paint one of these he makes sure to finish in one sitting, definitely because he enjoys it. He always works in the same scale pretty much...does a pencil sketch followed by watercolor style painting, and finished with micro pen outlines. He keeps them loose, just rendering in enough detail to capture the person's character. And he does them without thought...I guess these little portrait are kinda his 'thing'.

So the painting was done on watercolor paper, which we are mailing to Robert so that he can do whatever he likes with it.

But before mailing we said that we'd scan the painting and make Robert a button for his blog. It fits him perfectly I think! So, like I said, Aaron really likes doing these...so I'm thinking that if he got more requests he'd happily oblige.

Do you guys know about Blitsy? It's a fantastic private sale thing...you just sign up and get the emails containing all the incredible deals. But it's not your everyday shopping...Blitsy is all craft supplies! Mostly scrapbooking and paper crafts, but really all kinds of supplies! And the deals are so so good! I couldn't pass up the Luxe collection from Pink Paislee. I had been wanting to pick it up for a while. I LOVE gold foil and glitter...and why not throw in some holiday bits while I was at it. I can't say enough good things about Blitsy! My order was here in like 48 hrs! Aar brought the mail inside and I was like "noway." So so fast!! Sign up today! You'll LOVE it!!

Now here's something totally random and inspiring. And by 'inspiring' I mean that it has inspired me to enter more giveaways in the future. I'm still pinching myself...I can't believe it actually happened...but I won this Pink KitchenAid! When I got the message from Rosie, aka Sweetapolita, I swear I was dizzy. I had entered the Sweetapolita giveaway, along with nearly 4000 other folks and never dreamed I'd win...especially since this prize isn't even a frill at the moment. I really can't believe that this thing is gonna land on my doorstep soon! nuts!

And speaking of giveaways...don't forget to get in on this fab one from Fritzi Marie. Just leave a comment on my previous post and follow Everyday is a Holiday and Fritzi Marie. One lucky winner gets an adorable Doo Nanny Floral Crown! And make sure to read all about Kitty from Fritzi Marie if you haven't already. She's a sure talented gal with one of my favorite little families ever! Is it weird that I have "favorite families"? I don't think so.

Ok, that's life lately...hope yours is fabulous!

xo, Jenny & Aaron

We'd love for you to meet Kitty of Fritzi Marie! ( and a GIVEAWAY!)

What is your name and what do you do?

 Hi, my name is Kitty, aka Fritzi Marie. I'm a girl from Southern California who married a fellow from Seattle. We live in the South where my husband writes poetry and teaches English literature at Auburn University. I love to make things pretty. My passions are my son Roscoe and our 11 year old chihuahua Bono Baby. I sell vintage and handmade items (currently sock monkeys and Doo Nanny flower crowns) in our Etsy shop, Fritzi Marie. I also blog about fashion, treasure hunting, my family, wishes, decorating, and adventures.

 How do you go about doing what you do...and how did you get your start?

My husband Daniel, son Roscoe, and 11 year old puppy Bono Baby treasure hunt for vintage goodies and I make things pretty. I have been collecting vintage hats, purses, and clothing since high school. I had dreams of being a fashion designer but I studied Anthropology and Art History instead. I sell vintage pretties on Etsy in my shop, Fritzi Marie and recently as I said above I have been featuring customized sock monkeys that I trim with collected vintage patches and doilies and Doo Nanny flower crown / headbands.  

What/Who are you inspired by?

Primarily my inspiration comes from Pin-up, burlesque and 50s vintage style. Although, recently, within the past few years I have also been taken by early 20th Century circus and carnival images. 

Where do you create? home studio? kitchen table? sofa? 

Since the birth of Roscoe, I haven't truly had a creative space to call my own. So, it depends on my mood and where I am in the house. My little man sure has been turning my life upside down. In the very best way, of course.  

What are some of your fave movies/shows/bands/music? 

Some of my favorite movies are Amelie, Before Sunrise and Before Sunset and Gene Kelly classics.  I was a Rude Girl in high school and I still love SKA music. Social Distortion and Tom Waits are my go to favorites. I also love Sleater Kinney and 80's alternative.  

Do you collect anything? 

I collect black swans, vintage valentines and valentine hankies, and vintage sewing ephemera for projects.  

Favorite art/craft supplies? 

I love vintage feedsack fabric and velvet millinery supplies 

Where do you see yourself in 5 years? 

I hope to be living on the west coast again (closer to family) and maybe have another baby. I would also like to open a small boutique with my sister.   

 Favorite websites/blogs/shops...etc? 

One of my dearest friends is Amanda of Amanda Atkins in a Canary Forest.

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*GIVEAWAY *

And now the super sweet, talented, and generous Fritzi Marie will give one lucky Everyday is a Holiday blog reader their very own (red) Doo Nanny Floral Crown! 

"Inspired by Frida Kahlo, burlesque dancers, circus performers and pin up girls. My sister and I started making them to wear to the Doo Nanny festival (an outsider art show in Seale, Alabama). I feel so festive and beautiful when I wear mine. Here's hoping that this Doo Nanny crown takes you on many adventures and makes you feel beautiful."

All you have to do to enter is follow both Everyday is a Holiday blog & Fritzi Marie blog, and leave a comment below. Be sure to leave an email address so that we can give you the good news! :)

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Thanks so very much to Kitty for sharing a glimpse into her world and for offering such a fab giveaway! Every time I giggle or oooh and ahh when looking on Instagram, Aaron will say "what...are you looking at a pic of Roscoe?...or Bono Baby?" And 99% of the time he's right. How adorbs are both of those mini guys?! Me and Aaron are thrilled to introduce you guys to one of the sweetest gals around! Love her style and her little family!  

You can also find Fritzi Marie on facebook, and Instagram!

xo, Jenny & Aaron

Some really fun and talented people you should meet!

website / blog / facebook

I have always enjoyed collecting rare, antique, and vintage greeting cards. My favorite holiday season would have to be Christmas!  Ever since I was a little girl, I loved and collected everything from the yuletide season including 1940’s & 50’s stuffed Santa dolls and thousands of Christmas cards! I have a passion for all types of chic design and decorating, including cottage, shabby, beach chic and retro charm. I am inspired by the coziness of the1940's and 1950’s and actually anything vintage. As you explore my paper creations, you will see hints of pink & chic as well as, nostalgia and retro.  I try to find the highest quality of papers, paints, and ribbons throughout the United States and Europe. I take great pride in making all of my products by hand. My cards and tags are all fresh and new. I hand cut all of my tags too! All of my hand painted cards and tags are painted by me and all printing is done by me on a high quality printer. I do use vintage accents and some antique adornments when available. These add to the beauty and quality of the cards and tags I make.

blog / shop / instagram

Discount: HAPPY15 for 15% off my art shop

Hey there, I'm jenn from noodle and lou!  When I'm not creating in my studio, you will either find me chasing my boys and little dogs around or junking through the state of Texas.  I have a huge passion for all things vintage and try to incorporate these lost treasures in my art.  Polka dots, houses and girls with a far away look in their eyes are some of my favorite things and you'll see them quite a bit in my work.  From paintings, to mixed media creations, to my clay sculpture lulettes... I adore my job and hope my art will bring a smile to your day! xox

blog / instagram / facebook

Love, Joleen Photography is the mommy/lifestyle blog of Joleen Pete. Natural light photographer from Southern California. New wife and mama. Just turned 30. Recently moved across country, got married, and is setting up a new home. Blogs about Atlanta living, mommy musings, fashion, shopping, and crafty goodness. Loves books and a good DIY.

blog / shop / instagram / facebook

Hiya! I'm Mr. Tiny from wacky tacky. wacky tacky is a resource for living and designing on the fringe. Isn't fringe the best? We love creating vintage-inspired clothing and going on awesome roadside adventures from our home base in Southern California. We're passionate about family, kooky restaurants, making music, cooking, funny architecture, thrifting, dancing, interior design, and collecting EVERYTHING!

The motor to the wacky wagon is always running and you're invited to join us on all of our wacky tacky adventures!

blog / pinterest / instagram

Discount: 15 % off Any Ad Space! Use Code: have a holiday

I'm Shell, and I run the show over at Kitty & Buck. My blog is about creative living, inspiration and being nice to animals (and each other) I'm a full time Motion Graphics Designer, part time musician, blogger, blog designer, baker, cat momma and reader. Sometimes I dance ballet too.

blog / shop / instagram / twitter 

Hello there, I'm Danielle and I'm an artist and blogger living on the California coast with my husband Jose and our cat Lily, who is actually a boy. I work in an elementary school library, and I make art that's whimsical and sometimes a little spooky. My blog, Ahoy Miss, chronicles my adventures, art, and inspirations. I am partial to candy-colored hair, pastels, cats, and desserts of all kinds!

blog / facebook / tumblr 

Hearthandmadeuk is a blog full of interiors, craft projects and DIY tutorials. I never thought I could have created something so wonderful, full of interior design inspiration for my dream home, art and journalling inspiration, photography styling, hints and tips for DIY projects and tutorials for home accessories and personal accessories. The list goes on and on! I love sharing my 'inspiration' folder with all of you! When I was thinking of what I should say here at Jenny and Aaron's lovely blog I realised that my blog is just an updated version of that inspiration binder that used to live under bed where I kept all of my magazine clippings! I hope you enjoy if you visit. Stop by any time ^_^ 

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When you do things ALL THE TIME...such as reading blogs, browsing shops online, pinning, or even rolling through your facebook feed...it just comes second nature. You don't stop to wonder WHY you do these things...it would be like asking WHY you breathe. But all of these activities aren't the same as breathing. They are conscious choices. And why do we CHOOSE to do these things. Quick answers for me are: to stay connected, stay informed, stay interested (and therefore 'interesting')...and above all else...TO STAY INSPIRED. And being inspired isn't limited to creative types. It's necessary across the board. It's inspiration that gets you outta bed in the morning (you can make this statement especially true if you nickname your needy chihuahua or small child 'Inspiration' ; )
So that's what I'm getting at. For me, it's what a post like this is all about. Every link you see above is a gateway to Inspiration. And the diversity of Inspiration is what will keep you interested and interesting. This roll call has got road trippers, makers, great picture takers, and style creators. They're as far flung as Australia, Ireland, Texas, Pennsylvania,  and the great state of California. These are the people I see and the places I go every day when I jump on the interwebz. This group of friends is just the tip of the iceberg...and oh gosh is it one big bright and glittery tip! So make sure to stay in touch, stay informed, and visit these fab purveyors of Inspiration! And use the discount codes!...they love that!

xo, Jenny...and Aaron

Friday Favorites

Fa Fa Fariiiiiday! This week was a Blur with a capital B. Seriously. Aaron and I were just all over the place. Jumping from one project to the next. We are in the early stages of putting together some very exciting stuff and these first few steps have us all jittery...but in a good way. Sorry that I'm being so vague. It's just that everything is in the infant stage with this new venture...and whenever thats the case I feel like talking all about it kills a little of the process. I will definitely spill beans as soon as I can. 

We were really luck to get a break from the heat the past couple of days. Not that we were outside at all...ha! as if. Nope, we've been in the studio all along...but just knowing that it isn't sweltering outside seems to set you at ease a bit. We get these afternoon thunderstorms often and I'm always cringing, thinking that one of the big lightning strikes is going to cause a power outage and we'll be without AC. Yeah, I borrow trouble...a lot.

But yesterday was very cool. We actually had the windows open, curtains swaying in the breeze. Today is Sunny...around 80. If it rains on Sunday we are hoping to visit with my brother and his family...cannot wait to see our niece Olivia!  

Ok, Friday means Favorites...

I've blogged my love for this classic  rocker in the past, (no I'm not speaking of Glenn Frey)...The chair above...I just love it so much. We still have to finish the living room here and this would be such a sweet addition. Mind you, it's currently not in the budget. But maybe I'll come across an amazing sale or possibly something on craigslist. 

I am so in love with the work of artist Matías Krahn. Talk about paintings with 'sweet spots'! I just love pieces like this, that have an overall color theme and a look all their own from a distance...and then  you can also look closer and get lost in a whole new world of texture, color, story etc...

Yes yes yes I am crazy for carts. Just CRAZY for them! They're on wheels, they're portable, and you can load with supplies and favorite things. I like getting Organized. It harkens back to the kid in me that played office. I love industrial looking things. I love them in metal or wood, or a combination of both. Well World Market has got my number in the cart and storage department. I already own a few pieces from them and this one has reinvigorated my cart passion all over again. It was so hard to choose between them. Both are amazing and could work. But I did finally settle on the dark one. I am counting down the days till it arrives at my door! and planning what supplies will be lucky enough to go for a ride on it.

Aren't these just so so pretty? the shape..the gold...the stones. I truly don't know which is my favorite. As soon as I think I've settled I reconsider. All are so so pretty.

Love these nails! Simple, and so incredibly fun and sweet. They remind me of being at the boardwalk and seeing all of the hanging bags of cotton candy. 

Which reminds me...me and Aaron need some time out of the house. We're thinking of a little day trip down to Point Pleasant soon. They've got a boardwalk and tons of antique shops...and it's only a few train stops down the shore.

ok, Happy Friday!

hope your weekend is fabulous!

xo, Jenny & Aaron

Sponsor Everyday is a Holiday in August

I feel like the summertime is when a lot of creative types really come alive. For me and Aaron this has been especially true this summer due to the perpetual heatwave that's parked itself on top of New Jersey. Being locked inside with the AC on full blast whilst surrounded by art supplies has been conducive to getting some great projects made! But seriously, overall you just feel more alive...there are more hours in the day, and the glow of the sun seems to egg you on a bit to get things done. After finishing all the work on the book me and Aaron have been thrilled to direct our creative energies toward working with new mediums and expanding our artistic comfort zones. And it's been a thrill to hear back from so many blog readers who are doing the same. I'm noticing a slight trend...well, it's more like a collective shift...so many people are saying things like "It feels good to be getting back into making art" or "I used to blog so much more...I think I want to get back to that." or "I've been wanting to try to get more creative in the kitchen...I'm gonna do it now."

Have you been noticing this mini-renaissance among your friends and contacts or is it just me? I feel like a lot of people are tired of the same old same old and are looking to paint their figurative towns bright bright red.  

When I thought of making a call for sponsors in August I thought precisely of the peeps that I've been speaking with about their own creative or personal renaissances. A whole lotta people are putting more time into blogging, or their online shops, or art classes, or what have you...and they're excited about it and the energy is palpable. And I hope you've been feeling some of that energy here on Everyday is a Holiday. I'm feeling it and I'm focused on spreading it. So if you're feeling a little flare up in yourself and want to get the word out about your own endeavors big and small...then now is the time to make yourself known and sponsor Everyday is a Holiday in August. 

Everyday is a Holiday readers lean towards a creative, artful lifestyle. They love to make things with their hands and support artists who make things with their hands. They've got style, and love to cook and bake.

Does this sound like you? More importantly...does this sound like the people you'd like to hang with, chat with, and laugh with? If so...we'd love to hear from you! It's time to expand your own blog audience, get your art or products seen by the eyes of more like-minded peeps. Our feature spot is booked through September but we still have large spots which include a group spotlight containing photos and links...and there are medium ads to be had as well! If you'd like all the deets on this front be sure to pop over to our Sponsor/Advertise info page.

We'd love to work with you!

xo Jenny & Aaron

Strawberry Spinach Salad with Honey Poppy Seed Vinaigrette

Summertime! it's synonymous with salads. Hot sunny days call for something fresh, bright and refreshing. And this salad simply nails it...and then some. This is totally one of our very favorite salads. Every fork full offers some combination of taste bud heaven...and if you're lucky enough to get all the goods on your fork all at once...you'll feel utterly spoiled. It's perfect for a lunch since it's a meal unto itself. We recently had this on a not too hot day on the deck with my brother Walt. It was the weekend and he was in his favorite spot...all covered in grease, lying on his back under his jeep. The kid LIVES to do dirty work! We went out to the driveway and yelled "30 minute warning...there will be a delicious salad served on the deck...show up with washed hands!" So a half hour later he had scrubbed hit blackened mitts as best as he could and pulled up a chair at the picnic table. He loved it! And even though it's a salad, it also has enough substance to fuel you though the rest of your hard day.

There's tender spinach, sweet berries, creamy avocado, tangy blue cheese, onion, and the crunch of the toasted almonds takes it to a whole 'nother level. So so good. And in a matter of a minute or two you can whisk up a yummy homemade dressing that perfectly compliments the fab ingredients! Also, if you want to make this into your dinner, just add some grilled chicken...perfect!

Here is what you will need:

spinach (washed, dried, and chopped)

strawberries (washed, dried and sliced)

1/2 cup slivered almonds (toasted)

1 avocado (cubed)

1/2 red onion (sliced)

1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese 

For the dressing:

1/2 cup olive oil

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

pinch of salt

1 tablespoon poppy seeds

1/4 cup of apple cider vinegar

1/3 cup honey (you could use sugar)

1 teaspoon dry mustard powder

First toast your almonds. It makes all the difference...the flavor level gets kicked up ten notches and texture-wise the toasted almonds add a perfect light crispy crunch. Heat your oven to 350 degrees. Then line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and spread out your slivered almonds in a single layer. Allow them to toast for 10-12 minutes. Give them a little stir or shake every 4 minutes or so. You will know when your nuts are perfectly toasted when they are beginning to brown and your kitchen smells like toasted nuts.

Wash, dry and chop your spinach. Slice the strawberries and onion, and cube your avocado.

Crumble your blue cheese. (unless you purchased it already crumbled...which is fine and dandy!)

Now to prepare your dressing. In a medium bowl, whisk your vinegar, honey, pepper, salt, and mustard. Then whisk in your olive oil and your poppy seeds. Give it a little taste to see what you think, and make adjustments according to your taste...does it need a bit more honey?...or maybe a splash more of vinegar?...let your taste buds do the talking. But also keep in mind the sweetness that the strawberries will bring to the overall flavor...and the tang of the blue cheese etc... 

If you are not serving immediately, store in a conatiner than can be shaken well. Or whisk well before serving. 

Using a large mixing bowl, layer in your spinach, strawberries, avocado, onions, blue cheese, and almonds. Toss well. We try to be gentle with the tossing in order to keep the avocado cubes nice and intact.

If you are serving right away you can toss with some dressing and then plate. Or drizzle dressing on the individual servings. However you like it! 

Seriously...you will feel so spoiled! It's one of those salads that you savor and take your time to eat. Let us know if you make it...we'd love to hear. And of course be sure to tell us about any great additions you may have brought to it.

Thanks so much! We hope you love it!

xo, Jenny & Aaron