I Simply Adore {1}

Hi lovelies...

If you haven't heard of or haven't read The Happiness Project...  I highly suggest adding it to your must-read or wishlist! First, I have to share a sad secret that I started this book over a year ago (eek! I guess that's proof that my life has been hectic.... I can't even make time to leisurely read).  Immediately after starting the book, I shared my excitement and several wonderful passages from the book in these earlier blog posts: one & two. Let me emphasize that I chose not to breeze through it for several reasons. First, I was beyond busy, but secondly, the book is broken down into months and for a while, I read the corresponding months during each month. I also have really enjoyed letting it linger. Whether I make time for a chapter or even just a page, each time I open the book I feel a revitalized sense of direction or determination in life. And each time, I easily pick up right where I left of. Read my first two blog posts for more details, and definitely consider it. You won't be disappointed. I'm including a few more links to my other ALL-TIME favorite reads.

I'd love to know what books you recommend too. 

I also want to share exciting news about a new little blog routine I'm starting.  It's my way of recording my thanks...  my joys... my own happiness. This is my reflection, and my attempt to capture fleeting moments that I hold close.  These, I Simply Adore, lists include my own photography and my own personal lists.

 © limefish studio  photo a day project 115/365
photo for sale (without text) upon request

I'd love to hear what you adore?

Cinco de Mayo Guide

Cinco de Mayo is almost here! Check out these great festive ideas!

Be sure to click the links for yummy recipes & DIY projects!

1. Chip-Shaped Cookies  //  2. Garlic & Shrimp Zucchini Wrap  //  3. Festive Flags   //  4. Margarita Cupcakes   //  5.  DIY Umberlla Topiary  //  6. Cinco de Mayo Recipe Roundup  //  7. DIY Mini Pinatas  //  8. Cinco de Mayo Drinks  //  9. DIY Crepe Paper Flowers  //  10. Mustache Mugs  //  11. Strawberry Margarita Jello Shots  //  12. Smothered Burrito

National Pretzel Day

Who knew there were so many exciting national food days?! Today is National Pretzel Day - YUM - so I threw together a fun little collection of delicious recipes. The sad thing is yesterday at the grocery store I was SO close to buying pretzels and decided against it. If I'd only known :) I haven't tried any of the recipes below yet, but I'm definitely hoping to make one tonight (maybe two - ha)! I'd love to hear your comments if you try any or please feel free to add your own pretzel recipe links below!

Be sure to click the source links for these scrumptious pretzel recipes!

1. Apple Pretzel Crumbles  //  2. Pretzel Dogs  //  3. Peanut Butter Pretzel Bites   //  4. Pretzel-Crusted Chicken   //  5.  Ham & Cheese Pretzel Bites  //  6. Chocolate Peanut Butter Pretzel Bars  //  7. Sweet & Salty Cinnamon Sugar Pretzels  //  8. Pretzel Rolls  //  9. Pretzel Bites  //  10. Chocolate Chip Pretzel Cookies  //  11. Honey Wheat Pretzels with Beer Cheese Dip  //  12. Strawberry Pretzel Salad

On a side note, it's quite comical to me that National Pretzel Day falls on April 26th -- my sister's birthday. Why comical? Well, mainly because my dear mother is beyond obsessed with pretzels. Seriously.....she has almost a bag a day (it's okay - she's insanely fit teaching several aerobic classes & personal training all day long) .... and they're "her" pretzels.... everyone in the house knows not the eat them :) So, happy Pretzel Day to my Mom, and...  

Next year I'll be sure to bake you lots of delicious birthday pretzel treats!

Earth Day 2012 Guide

Happy Earth Day!

The photos above were found from the following lovely sites. 

Visit the links to learn more!

1. Earth Day Cake Pops  //  2.  Twin Onesies  //  3. DIY Earth Cupcakes   //  4. PB&J Cupcakes   //  5. Plantable Paper   //  6. Earth Day Crayons  //  7. Sweet Sprout Cupcakes  //  8. Earth Lovers™ Gel  //  9. Earth Print  //  10. Glo-Boy Solar Night Light  //  11. Recycled Grow Bottle  //  12. Playdoh Earth

National Garlic Day

Did you know tomorrow, April 19th, is National Garlic Day?

Check out some of these yummy recipes!

The photos & recipes were found via these lovely sites.
Be sure to click the links for yummy GARLIC recipes!

1. Sweet Potato Garlic Knots  //  2. Garlic & Shrimp Zucchini Wrap  //  3. Rosemary Garlic Bread   //  4. Broccoli Slaw with Cilantro & Garlic   //  5.  Garlic Smashed Potatoes  //  6. Bocconcini with Garlic Scape Pesto  //  7. Carmelized Onion & Roasted Garlic Cauliflower  //  8. Spicy Chili Garlic Edamame  //  9. Roasted Garlic Hummus  //  10. Garlic Cream Cheese Spread  //  11. Lemon Garlic Tuna Burger  //  12. Green Garlic & Fava Wheat Berry Salad

ODU Engagement + Parisian Bridal Shower

Two of my dear friends are soon to be married, and I couldn't be more thrilled to play a part during this special time for them. Back in July, I took their engagement photos! We wandered ODU's campus (where they met) and captured moments at their most treasured places. In case you missed these before Here are a few of my favorites....

Last Minute Easter Ideas

Check out the following links for these great Easter ideas!

1. Bunny Rolls  //  2. Rice Krispies Nest  //  3. Paint Chip Egg Garland   //  4. Chickie Eggs   //  5.  Egg Bunny  //  6. Baker's Twine Eggs  //  7. Lamb Cupcakes  //  8. Bunny Rolls  //  9. Crepe Paper Bunnies  //  10. Rice Krispies Popsicles & Peeps  //  11. Nest Coolkies  //  12. Chalkboard Egg

CHECK OUT THE 2013 EASTER GUIDE HERE!

Happy Peanut Butter & Jelly Day

Who knew PB&J had a day?! 

I'm certainly not complaining though!

The photos above were found from the following lovely sites. 

Visit the links for delicious peanut butter & jelly recipes!

1. PB&J French Toast  //  2. PB&J Cinnamon Rolls  //  3. PB&J Sushi Rolls   //  4. PB&J Cupcakes   //  5.  PB&J Heart Cookies  //  6. PB&J Sandwich Cookies  //  7. PB&J Pie Bars  //  8. PB&J Cake  //  9. PB&J Milkshake  //  10. PB&J Thumbprint Cookies  //  11. PB&J Cupcakes  //  12. PB&J Fudge