What to wear :: a day at the beach

There's nothing quite like the sights, sounds and smells of the beach and boardwalk- the crashing waves, the cawing seagulls, the rides and arcade games, the yummy scent of caramel popcorn...It's paradise, I tell ya! And I'm heading there this weekend!

From sunbathing to splashing in the surf to grabbing dinner at your favorite pizza place (ahem-- Mack & Manco!), all you need is a cute retro-style swim suit, a breezy white skirt and simple, beachy accessories to go from a day at the beach to an evening on the boardwalk. And don't forget a lightweight sweater in case the evening breeze gets a little chilly.


Swimsuit from Delia*s | Sandy Beach handstamped sterling earrings by Tidepools Jewelry | Shae Cocoon Cardigan from South Moon Under
| QT Canvas Tote in Purple by Kinies | White Cotton Ruffle Skirt by Janny's Girl | Vintage Gold Nautical Sandals from Sweet Clothes of Mine

Giveaway from The Etsy Beagles Team

I'm a proud member of the Etsy Beagles Team, and we* just completed our summer challenge. Check out our blog to see everyone's "Lazy Days of Summer" entries, vote for your favorite, and get entered to win these yummy doggie brownies from Ciao Hound. I've ordered from Shari, of Ciao Hound, in the past and her dog treats have the Stella and Lucy paw stamp of approval. Your precious puppy won't be disappointed!

Go vote now!

*By "we" I mean the other team members. I was unable to participate in this challenge because I'm working on some other endeavors behind the scenes.

Cool collaborations :: Lizzie Fortunato Jewels for Madewell

Ever since Target started their GO International collections, collaborating with emerging designers, I've noticed a pretty cool trend of more high-profile chain stores getting together with emerging and indie artists and designers.

And so, I thought it would be another fun thing to highlight these cool collaborations in my blog (new column alert!). Since my goal combines supporting handmade and local, as well as indie and emerging, I think it fits. Even more, I realize it's not always possible for everyone to buy everything local or handmade, so here's a way you can shop the chain stores but still support those fabulous indie and emerging designers.

First up, Madewell and Lizzie Fortunato Jewels:


Clockwise from top left: Lizzie Fortunato Jewels for Madewell pendant necklace | Lizzie Fortunato Jewels for Madewell braided chain bracelet | Lizzie Fortunato Jewels for Madewell madras & chains necklace | Lizzie Fortunato Jewels for Madewell denim bouquet necklace

About Lizzie Fortunato Jewels - Run by sisters Elizabeth and Kathryn Fortunato, Lizzie Fortunato Jewels are high-end designs made from reclaimed, upcycled and recycled fabric, chains and other components. Read more here.

freshly picked :: Endo

For the outdoorsy (or the outdoorsy wannabe) guy in your life- Endo's smart graphic t-shirts that pay (slightly irreverent)homage to outdoor sports and the people who love them.
Clockwise from top left: The Giant Half Bike One | The iPedal One | The Bunch of Sports One | The Hiking Boarding Climbing Skiing One, all by Endo

Good stuff :: 4th of July Picnic

The makings of a perfect 4th of July picnic? A vintage basket and handmade wine stave, spices, eco-friendly bags, and of course, a cute dress.

Have a safe, happy and handmade 4th of July!


1- Fresh Apples Eco Reusable Sandwich Bag by GoEco | 2- Wine Stave Basket by Wine Cask Creations | 3- The Grill Guru BBQ Blends by Purpose Design | 4- Urban Picnic Roll-up by Nstar Studio | 5- Vintage Picnic Basket Set from Gramma Mac
| 6- Bouquet Custom Made-to-Order Dress by La Madeleine

TGIF link roundup :: cool things going on around town and on the web

It's been a while since I've done a link roundup, but I'm trying to get back into the swing of blogging more often again. So, here we are!

Fade in Fade out fine art photograph by Ablaze
Is everyone ready for the long holiday weekend? I know I am. Mine got started a little early (unexpectedly) because my little Lucy beagle has a tummy virus. We were at the pet emergency clinic at 7 a.m. today. But, as you can see- or maybe you didn't notice, in which case, I'll point it out- I still managed to be productive today while simultaneously tending to the Beags and I made some small changes around here design-wise. In the left column, you'll now find frequent topics, an author bio with a pic of my shining little face and a share the love blog banner (feel free to use it!). In the right column, you'll now find my stay connected icons where you can hook up with The Blooming Wildflowers Project on Twitter and Facebook.

And now, let's get on with our link roundup,shall we?

On the web
Do you love color? Or are you a little intimidated by it and its infinite possibilities? Either way, check out Brandi's How to be a Color Rockstar e-class.

Want to quit your day job to pursue your passion? B.B. Bellezza shared 11 Lessons Learned from Leaving my Day Job.

Scoutie Girl posted about Our Disposable Culture (and how we can fix that). I'm loving this post because it fits my blog's mission and my personal goals exactly.

And lastly, Megan at Crafting an MBA has a great post about How to use Etsy as a launch pad. I piggy-backed off of this post and posted about my own plans over at Moxie/Grace.

Around town- Lancaster, Pa.
It's First Friday and it's a beautiful evening in the city (the past few days have really reminded me of the perfect weather in Southern California). I'm getting ready to head out to the festivities soon.

Happy Friday, everyone!

freshly picked :: Lin Designs

I'm loving the colorful, vintage-inspired gemstone jewelry in Lin Designs' shop. The bright pretty colors and easy-to-wear styles are perfect for summer.



Lilac Lucite, Silver Flower and Crystals Necklace | Red and White Flower Snowflake Earrings | Pink Owl Necklace | Ocean Blue Earrings