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a year in travel stories and photos
I’d like to take a moment to reflect on our travels this year. We are so unbelievably grateful for every opportunity we get to pack up and go somewhere. Here are a few of my favorite memories from 2013 –
In February we took an impromptu weekend trip to New York City. We explored different neighborhoods, got caught in the rain, browsed markets and wandered through museums. We ate New York style pizza, strolled across the Brooklyn Bridge and pretended to be locals for a few days. It was a quick trip with new friends that felt like old friends.
In the spring we celebrated our second anniversary in Lowcountry. In Charleston we ate incredible food, sipped on sweet tea and swooned over breathtaking sunsets. We rented bikes and rode around for hours exploring south of Broad and the Battery. We spent a whole day wandering around Savannah totally in awe. Returning home my heart felt full.
In July we set off to Galena with a group of friends. We ate bbq and drank wine slushies and played frisbee sticks. We taste tested hot sauces and then immediately regretted that decision. We spent hours at the pool. We stayed up into the wee hours of the night and made a pact that we would all come back next year.
We spent the last of our summer days in Diamond Lake, Michigan. We stayed with my family in a cozy little cottage. There were boat rides and night swims, walks along the water and late afternoon naps on the porch. I spent lots of time drooling over my sister’s cooking. We ended each day with a sunset cruise and a bottle of red wine.
In September, after a crazy few weeks, we headed south to Nashville. We spent a lot of time eating and drinking. We devoured the spicy fried chicken at Hot Hattie B’s and soaked up the cool vibes at the speakeasy style bar The Patterson House. We shared a hotel room with our friends and laughed a lot. I took note of things I’d like to see the next time we visit.
I’m so happy to have these photos to refer back to as reminders of such beautiful moments. Twenty thirteen was truly an amazing year. I feel so very grateful. Thank you for following along and for your constant love and support. I used to think I would grow out of my restless, adventure seeking soul, but I’m starting to think it’s here to stay. I can’t wait to see what we get ourselves into in 2014!
photo credit kate zitzer | see where we went in 2012 here
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I wanted to end this year with a general round up of how it went and what I look forward to in the New Year. This year has been a bit of a whirlwind. It challenged me in so many unexpected ways. At times I felt behind, stretched beyond my limits. There were high moments and very low moments for me creatively. I was tested emotionally. This year taught me the importance of knowing my boundaries and how to persevere and I grew stronger for it. I needed this year. I needed to be forced out and faced with the tough situations. I gained perspective and learned to embrace the unknown. This year has brought us new struggles, new adventures and a new home. Through our travels I was reminded how magical and beautiful the world really is. I learned that my friends who I thought were special truly are. I learned that family is very important and that no matter what they will be there for you. I learned that I am very fortunate that I can wake up each day and pursue my passions and create beautiful things and that I am so grateful for all the support you have shown me this year – every comment on this blog, every like on Facebook and Instagram, each time you recommend my art to friends and family and each person who stops by to say hi at art fairs. My days are busy and long and sometimes I struggle, but I enjoy this pace and this life and wouldn’t want to change a thing. So tonight I am going to squeeze Marc a little tighter and be grateful for this life because, trials and all, this life is gold. I wish the happiest of holiday greetings and a very Happy New Year to all of you and your lovely family and friends. May this next year be wonderful and prosperous to you. Cheers 2013, see you in 2014!
image design kate zitzer
alternative christmas tree ideas
A Christmas tree is definitely a must-have decoration for me during the holiday season. Unfortunately this year, with the move, we didn’t have the time or the energy to put up our traditional tree. While searching for fun alternatives, I found these 10 creative ideas. The list features a great range of sizes and styles. Some are quick and easy and others require some planning and assembly. The washi tape tree is one of my favorite quick and easy options, and I’d love to do something like the countdown to christmas tree. So whether you’re short on space, are away from home for the holidays, are looking to decorate in a more innovative way or you’re just a busy gal, here are 10 creative ideas for alternative Christmas trees –
gift guide for the traveler
This one’s for the jet setter in your life. How about that overnight canvas bag or that funky cosmetic case? I know I would dig that jacket in the cool cobalt blue color! What would you pick?
Find these items – 1 a pouch that protects your sunglasses in style – Rebecca Minkoff sunnies sunglass case from Shopbop ($75) 2 a notebook great for jotting down observations, reminders and inspirations of all kinds – field notes from Wandawega Camp Store ($12) 3 a bag begging for adventures near and far – canvas overnight bag from J. Crew ($36.50) 4 a four seasons favorite with a removable quilted inner layer – technical parka by Scotch & Soda ($203) 5 a travel guide with an insider’s feel – Field Guide 02 Austin Texas from Wildsam Field Guides ($17.95) 6 a large cosmetic bag with a beautifully vibrant floral design – hibiscus large cosmetic bag from Country Road ($39.95) 7 protecting your delicates and designed to stash in a suitcase – go clean lingerie bag by Flight 001 ($18)
diy easy hostess gift | painted wood bead coasters
Put a little bit more thought into your hostess gifts this holiday season and try this super simple diy! Homemade gifts are a great way to thank your hosts for the invite, and if you make them in bulk, you won’t have to stop and pick up a bottle of wine or a bouquet of flowers.
what you’ll need:
• 3/4″ round wood beads
• leather cord
• tape
• paint
• scissors
how to make it:
Begin by taping off the portion of the bead you would like to paint. Apply a thin layer of paint using a paint brush and let dry. String beads onto leather cord and tie ends to make a simple knot. Pull as tight as possible and double knot. Loop at top is optional for hanging. You can also add a third row of beads and use as a trivet for hot dishes.
photo credit kate zitzer | more diy projects here
