2013: Intentional Change

January 3, 2013

{Journal c/o Chronicle Books and can also be found on Amazon}

New Years Day seemed to slam me in the face as I was coming of the high and tailspin of Christmas. I had no resolutions, and honestly, no desire to make them. 2012 really stretched me in many ways and the good change that came from it was not a result of a New Year’s resolution, but from either acceptance or action.

I really want to continue that theme into 2013. A year of intentional change. We have that choice to change ourselves and the world around us for the better by responding to what is given to us.

I received this journal in the mail from my friend Lorraine over at Chronicle Books yesterday. I like to look at it as providential. I think this is a small way to motivate me to make 2013 a continual resolution to reach higher in every aspect of my life. Not for the sake of fulfilling a resolution, or proving it to myself or others, but because I know my heart desires positive growth in myself, my family, and the world around me. It starts in the small every day decisions.

The journal is filled with inspiring quotes. One of my favorites:

“Yesterday is gone. Tomorrow has not yet come. WE have only the present. Let us begin.”

~Mother Teresa

I look forward to sharing some of this intentional change with you:)

Cheers to 2013!

P.S. Can’t thank you all enough for all of the warm congrats and sweet messages! It sure makes the anticipation all the more exciting. We anxiously await June 28th!

Welcome 2013 + Sharing Our Big News!

January 1, 2013

Happy New Year from the Liesemeyer Family!

We thought we would kick off the year with our surprise we have been keeping a secret for the past few months! Although it was a surprise to us, we were overjoyed to find out we have a new life on the way…due on our 5th Wedding anniversary, June 28th! Gabe and I can hardly wait to see what new little personality will join our family. I have learned that God’s plans are always better than my own and that He already knows and loves this little soul inside of me. I know that ability to have children is a gift, and so I am so thankful for this opportunity we have been given. Gabe and I are ready for all the “you sure have your hands full” comments we will receive. Bring it on! We hope this won’t be our last baby either;)…

We will be keeping the gender a surprise along with the name. Gabriel thinks there are “babies” in mommy’s belly. Oh dear…
I think 2013 will be a beautiful year.

I am thankful for each of you readers, who have made IHOD something I can devote my time to, and share my love of the creative world. I have some exciting things in store to share and I hope you will continue to follow along:)
Wishing you all a very HAPPY NEW YEAR and cheers to the hope 2013 brings!
Love, Anna

*all photos taken by my wonderful sister Jana

December 29, 2012

Merry Christmas from all of us to all of you!

December 24, 2012

I am in my pajamas, coffee mug in hand, surrounded by family, Christmas music going, things a baking, and excitement of Christmas in the air. Little Gabriel knows that we are down to just “one more nap” till Jesus’ big birthday celebration. My children bring that magical feeling back to me all over again, and Gabe and I feel like little kids waiting for the arrival Christmas morning. There is a 70% chance of snow tomorrow, and currently we are all healthy, which would fulfill the only things on my wish list:) Thankful for the gift of true joy that fills my heart today and don’t feel I deserve anything else from such a loving God.

We wish you much peace this Christmas, and hope that you have a very happy New Year!

Love, Gabe, Anna, Gabriel, and Veronica

Around Here: Christmas Edition

December 20, 2012

We are gearing up to hit the road and gather with brothers, sisters, nieces, nephews, nanna and papa for Christmas. Gabriel has been counting down by how many naps he has to take before we leave. Can hardly contain our excitement:) Here is a glimpse of the holiday happenings around our house…

Turned these….

..into this. A silver and gold bulb chandelier to offset the not so pretty ceiling fixture in our rental home:) Work with what you got, and make it your own, right?

(Tie ribbon through and around ends of ornaments and make sure to measure each ribbon strand as you go along to tier. I tied the other ends to the bottom of the light fixture.)

(spools of Midori ribbon)

If I can’t paint the door red, I WILL hang a flaming red wreath.

(Her favorite perch. Front and center.)

A well loved tree that seems to gather clusters of ornaments on a single branch close to the level of two eager little toddlers…

The benefits of baking with mama.

(To officially welcome all guests.)

I am super jealous of all of you who got pummeled in snow.

As much as I love the mild Atlanta winters, I am dreaming of a White Christmas. I am hoping St. Louis will pull through for us:) Happy December from our family to yours!

Love, Anna

Giveaway: $50 Shopping credit to Lulu and Georgia

December 19, 2012

Honored to be a part of Lulu and Georgia’s 12 Days of Giveaways!

I saved a fantastic company to share as the last giveaway on IHOD for 2012:)

Meet Lulu and Georgia, just launched a few months ago by two gals with passionate characters and complimenting dreams. They have successfully curated an exquisite collection of modern and tasteful pieces for the home ranging from wall decor to textiles. I would decorate my home from top to bottom in Lulu and Georgia if I could:) Here’s your chance to win a $50 shopping credit!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

P.S. Winner of the Two Penny Blue Giveaway announced here. (On the rafflectopter widget)

What to wear and pair : Holiday Edition

December 14, 2012

{Sources: 1. / 2. / 3. / 4. / 5. / 6. }

I have no idea what I am wearing for Christmas yet. Guess I better decide. Its easier for me to put together outfit ideas for others so… ifwho have yet to determine what to gown yourself with here’s your inspo 🙂 I always love adding a little sparkle or glam to simple silhouettes.

And there is so one too many awesome holiday posts around the blog world not to share:

Need some good hair tutorials for the holidays? Cara Loren has some fantastic ones for long hair.

Beautiful and easy hand painted ornaments.

Creature Comforts has the complete round up of free holiday printables.

These DIY Gold Nugget Earrings have my vote for the best gift for friends!

Send long distance loved ones an instant winter scene🙂

An edible gift idea that looks far more elegant than it is easy to make.

And to follow up with my #tidingsofgoodwill post, check out what these amazing folks are doing!

Happy December weekend!

Love, Anna