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My New BFF :: Glassybaby

When do you light a candle? For a romantic dinner for two? To celebrate a birthday? In prayer for a loved one? To help you slow down and relax? I light candles for all of these reasons. And I love the beautiful light that glows from my new bff glassybaby pink votive.

pink glassybaby votive

As a fellow cancer survivor, I love the story behind glassybaby too. It’s founder, Lee Rhodes is a three time cancer survivor who was raising three small children and searching for peace and calm.  She found it when she dropped a tea light into a handblown, glass cup.  The color and light helped her slow down and heal.  She wanted to help others heal.  She opened a glassblowing studio and glassybaby was born.

vignette with pink votive candle

Lee also wanted to help the many patients she met in chemo rooms who could not afford day to day costs that are not covered by health insurance like groceries and childcare.  glassybaby has now donated more than one million dollars from sales to charities dedicated to healing and helping patients with those needs. Isn’t that fantastic?!

Wouldn’t you agree, a hand blown glass candle holder by glassbaby would make a wonderful Valentine’s Day gift?

*photo credit: Cristin Priest // Simplified Bee

 

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Read full story By on February 4, 2013 in Holiday, home accessories, Valentine's Day

Valentine’s Day Inspiration & XOXO Banner

Valentine's Day Hot Cocoa Bar

Love is in the air! With Valentine’s Day falling in the chilly month of February, why not warm the hearts of your loved ones with hot chocolate? Creating a festive hot cocoa bar with marshmallow toppings and treats is easy – both kids & adults will love too! I simply used my vintage bar cart, a tray and filled it with hot cocoa essentials. The heart mugs are my fave!

And who doesn’t remember this darling hot cocoa stand?

Valentines Day Hot Chocolate TrayHeart Valentines MugBig KissChocolate Kisses Valentines DayDIY XOXO Banner Valentines Day

The hugs & kisses banner was homemade. Starting with red glitter paper purchased at Michaels, I simply cut out the Xs & Os (here’s where I found the template). Then I taped each cut out letter to pink and white baker’s twine. Super simple. Super cute!

xoxo,

cristin

 

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Read full story By on January 8, 2013 in craft, DIY, Entertaining, Holiday, Uncategorized, Valentine's Day

Setting Goals :: 2013

gold sequin table runner for New Years

Happy 2013! We welcome you and the opportunity for a fresh start. What better way to ring in the new year than by setting goals and resolutions. Whether it’s to lose weight, get in shape, eat healthier, get a new job, save/make more money or my favorites, get organized and give back – now’s the time!

goal setting quote C.S. Lewis

However, statistics show that by February, you will have broken more than 90 percent of the resolutions you made. While it may not be easy or overnight, here are some helpful steps to make it easier for you to reach your goal and stick with it:

Be Specific :: Describe what you want to accomplish in detail and write it down. Many studies have proven that the simple act of writing your goals down greatly improves your chances of accomplishing them. Also, let your friends and family know your goals. They can help support you during rough times.

Be Realistic :: Set goals you are capable of achieving. Instead of setting ten new year’s resolutions, you may want to limit it to two t o three that are attainable.

Be Disciplined :: Understand that it may take energy, sacrifice and plain old hard work to obtain your goal. Breaking up a larger goal into smaller tasks can help keep you motivated and on track.

Be On Time :: Establish a timeline and set completion dates for your goals and tasks. This should also be written down and will help you to stay focused.

Be Rewarded :: Give yourself a small reward after accomplishing a goal. Celebrating your success will keep you motivated and will help you keep those new year resolutions.

Hello 2013

xoxo Cristin

 

*image via Style Me Pretty

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Read full story By on January 1, 2013 in Entertaining, goal setting, Holiday, new years, Organization, organization tips, Parties

Christmas Wish

Simplified Bee Holiday Mantle
As we count down the days until Christmas, it’s hard not to reflect on how fast this year flew by. Slowing down and taking time to visit with family and friends is my priority these next few weeks. I hope you have the opportunity to spend time with loved ones too.

bottle brush christmas trees

Wishing you much joy, happiness and safe travels this holiday season!

Cristin

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Read full story By on December 21, 2012 in Christmas, Holiday, holiday decor, Uncategorized