Chalkboard Art and a First Birthday

I have to admit, I have not been a fan of the recent craze in chalkboard art. I can't give you a good explanation as to why it didn't appeal to me -- all I can say is now I'm really wishing that I had taken a class. Thanks to my late night Pinterest hobby, I came across some adorable photos of using chalkboard art to celebrate the monthly milestones of newborns.

(photo from Pinterest - does not link to correct page, but photo credits Angela Photography

if you have the correct link, please let me know and I'll update!)

(photo from Pinterest - The Photographer's Wife)

Aren't those fun? If you search "chalkboard art monthly baby" on Pinterest, you will come up with a slew of ideas. Luckily my Mum had a fabulously large vintage chalkboard that I could use..since I've snubbed this trend, I did not have my own.

And my chalkboard was.. well.. beginner to say the least..

Take 1..

Take 2..

Alas, I have some room (a ton of room) for improvement on my chalkboard and photography skills. But, this was such a fun way to celebrate Tommy's first month birthday. Can you believe it? Oh time, you fickle mistress.. please slow down and let me have this precious year go ever so slow..

Celebrating the 4th of July

Our days and nights have been full with enjoying our little family. Father's Day was especially sweet with the arrival of our little man, but I wasn't able to do everything I wanted to for my husband and father. I'm scaling way back in my expectations of what I can accomplish in a day. However, my sweet Kiddo is an aspiring "Martha Stewart" at age 5 and really wanted to celebrate the 4th of July with decorations and more. Luckily it only takes a few extra touches to make her smile..

A sweet little star garland in our front room..

A little door decor..

When you're 5 years old (or 35), crepe streamers can make any holiday festive..

I let Kiddo go crazy picking daisies from our garden to adorn the front porch..

Lots of red and blue treats for the day! 

Fun food picks for our BBQ.. 

We are so thankful for all those Americans that fight for our freedom! I hope you and yours celebrate a safe and fun 4th of July!!

Are you looking for some more patriotic ideas?
Come see my free pattern for this paper pieced mug rug..