Happy December!! This year has flown by. We've had quite a few transitions in our family in 2015 between changing our focus from 'craft-based' to 'art and design-based' with Jitney's, and, of course, the exciting addition of our little Mia Kai arriving next year in April. Yay!!
This October, I decided to challenge myself with a 50 Day Design Challenge.
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Mia Kai Todd will be arriving April 2016, friends!!!
Several people have asked if Mia (or) Kai are family names. Answer: Nope. Well, not that we know of. We really just love the name Mia and Kai is both Hawaiian and Japanese. We couldn’t resist giving her a name that comes from some of our favorite locations to travel. Plus, she's already spent more than half of her life (in the womb) being carried around Hawaii. :)
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image by erin lindsey images
SURPRISE!! We're expecting our first itty bitty Jitney in April 2016 and could not be more thrilled!! Due to our travel schedule, we weren't able to get our photos taken until recently so we apologize for not announcing this sooner! ;) However, it was WELL worth the wait!!! We could NOT stop flipping out about how amazing these photos turned out. Our friend, Erin Lindsey, is an INCREDIBLE photographer and captured everything perfectly - even better than what we had imagined. The photo shoot was so fun and perfect and delightful... but I'll be posting more about that later!! For now, more about the BABY!!!
Read MoreIf you're following along with the Scripture Memory / Dwell Richly printable, here's the verse for week 42:
But you are a God ready to forgive, gracious and merciful, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love. Nehemiah 9:17 (ESV)
A S S I G N M E N T
Mini Challenge for Bonnie Christine's Intro to Surface Pattern Design Class: Design a desktop wallpaper featuring your own artwork and favorite inspirational quote (for more examples, check out the free downloads under 'class project').
You can sign up for a free month of Skillshare here!
C L A S S P R O J E C T
Desktop Background: I love the idea of this challenge but honestly, I rarely see my desktop background. There's a reason I design planners and organization printables... not because I'm organized but because it's my life goal to have structure, to get organized and to figure out a system. I have yet to achieve any of those goals. ;)
So, for this mini challenge, I played around with a few different desktop backgrounds to fit the styles of everyone. For those of you who keep a clean desktop, the ones who close out all windows at the end of the day so that they can open a fresh workspace every morning, I used the quote: "What she tackles, she conquers." Because trust me ladies, if you can create structure and strategy like that, I firmly believe that what you tackle, you will conquer. Plus, what a wonderfully motivating quote that would be to start your day with!
And then I created this desktop background for people like me. People who always have countless windows and projects open, way too many to tackle in one day. People who, let's be honest, if you actually ever see your desktop, it's because you've stretched your trusty computer a little too far and it's given up on you. Time to close everything up and reboot. Time to take a break. Time to go pick some flowers on the wildside. ;)
I realized after I posted the project and the name [Backgrounds for Everyone!] that I only posted feminine backgrounds so here's a gender neutral one. :)
Which background do you relate to the most? Feel free to use these backgrounds for your own desktop!
If you're following along with the Scripture Memory / Dwell Richly printable, here's the verse for week 41:
“Though the mountains be shaken and the hills be removed, yet my unfailing love for you will not be shaken nor my covenant of peace be removed,” says the Lord, who has compassion on you. Isaiah 54:10 (NIV)
This is a story about a time where we stood among a crowd of people mesmerized by the huge waterfalls flowing from a cliff into a pool. We stood among the onlookers on the road that looked down below, searching for a way to get down to the pool for a closer look and a quick swim. After much investigation and reading through our handy Ultimate Kauai Guidebook, we found the fence and Hazardous Cliff signs blocking the trail down to the falls. So we did what any adventure-craving, crazy person would do: trekked around the fence and hazard signs, scooted down the rocks and dirt while holding onto a couple of the ropes that guided us through the mud without losing our shoes, and enjoyed the luxuries of nature at the bottom of the falls.
This is also a story of our Father's faithfulness. I look at the photos of these waterfalls, carving out the edge of the rocks into an eroded overhang. Rocks, to me, seem like the steadiest of all natural creation. Together, they form hills and mountains. They are solid - literally rock steady. Because of their fortitude, we barely see their changes due to other natural elements. But they do change. Over time, they change.
Though the mountains be shaken and the hills be removed, yet my unfailing love for you will not be shaken nor my covenant of peace be removed,” says the Lord, who has compassion on you. Isaiah 54:10 (NIV)
But our Father doesn't change. He is the same yesterday and today and forever (Hebrews 13:8). His love for His children will not and cannot be shaken, regardless of time and situations. His covenant of peace to us, the covenant of salvation, will not and cannot be removed. He is a Father who overflows with compassion for His children. And we don't even have to trek through mud and slide down mountains holding onto ropes to find Him. That is peace.
If you've had a face-to-face conversation with me in the past year, I probably mentioned my love for Skillshare at one point or another. Why? Because I'm obsessed. I think it's one of the greatest creative communities of all-time and I've consumed more knowledge through the classes, teachers and students than I have in years.
Skillshare is an online learning community for creators. Unlike traditional study, online classes at Skillshare are taught by industry experts and focus on learning by doing. The courses, which are not accredited, accept anyone who wants to learn.
I grew up in a wonderfully creative home. My parents always nourished the wild curiosities and adventurous endeavors that my brother, Chase, and I put our minds to. They never squashed our excitement for new projects (regardless of how crazy, messy or strange they were). In fact, they encouraged them.
However, my design background started in a high school journalism classroom with one of my favorite teachers, Brian Cole. He taught the intricacies of InDesign and photography. While writing copy was somewhat enjoyable, I couldn't get enough of playing with different layouts. I continued to Auburn where I studied public relations and finished out my degree working as a marketing / PR intern at Mammoth Printshop where I had the opportunity to sit alongside Whitney Zech, a phenomenal graphic designer who rekindled a crazy passion for design within my soul. She taught me the basics of Illustrator and it was over for me. I couldn't get enough of it. But then I graduated and JD & I moved to a small town so I was basically on my own for learning. I wasn't sure where to go for that (unless I went back to school), so I focused instead on arts and crafts for a few years until Chase told me about Skillshare. It took me a while before I signed up but I asked my friend, Ashley, to join me in one of the handlettering projects and she was in.
I'm semi-embarrassed to admit that I'm always one for free trials then dropping the 'service' when the trial period is over but Skillshare is one of the few things I believe in paying for. After the first free month, I became addicted to learning these new skills. A lot of people ask how I have time to watch the videos and do the challenges. I'll tell you how: I make time for it. I make it a priority. I believe in learning. I believe in excelling. I believe in expanding your skills. I believe in joining in community with others so that we can be better. (Plus, it helps that I work solo in the studio all day and have the videos playing on repeat while I work on custom projects). During every trip we've taken in the past year, I've focused on one class and one project. It's because of Skillshare that I've been exposed to true techniques of handlettering, calligraphy, surface pattern design and so many other design niches.
The most recent project I've finished is the Calligraphy 101 class, taught by Bryn Chernoff. I couldn't describe Skillshare in any better light than this:
'Picking the phrase or quote' was definitely the most difficult part of this challenge for me. It was so hard to narrow it down but I wanted to use a phrase that has encouraged me as a creative, in hopes that it will encourage all of you as well!
I was sharing with my friend, Lauren (from the Department of Agraculture), the other day about how I quickly plunge from inspired to discouraged when scrolling through my Instagram feed and Pinterest. At first, I feel like, "Yes! I can do this. I can create something wonderful too!" But then the disillusionment of, "No, I can't. Everyone is accomplishing so much more than me," sets in. Lauren quickly diffused this by sharing John F. Kennedy's quote: "A rising tide lifts all boats." Even though Kennedy was referring to the economy in this speech, one of the creatives she follows on IG shared the quote in a post and wrote about how this is the same effect for creatives. When one of us is successful, it's like a rising tide and it lifts us all to succeed as well. Instead of getting discouraged by others' success, we should be excited for them, knowing that it is a sweet tide of success, lifting up the world of creativity, knowing that s/he is making a way for us all, creating opportunity.
Don't get me wrong, I still get discouraged every now and then, but that perspective changed a lot for me. When I see the teachers and students of Skillshare, I see this quote played into motion. So many have been willing to share skills that we wouldn't be able to have access to otherwise. Because of the variety of classes offered, we're able to create that tide, to build skill on top of skill, and to reach new levels of creativity we've only imagined. I've been deeply inspired by this community coupled with the encouragement and tips we're able to give one another.
Check out my full project and steps here. Want to join in on the fun with Skillshare? Get a free month membership here! Let me know which class you take and maybe we can take it together!
...and we couldn't be more excited!!! Now introducing: the bolder, larger, lovelier Jitney's Journeys Agenda for 2016!! Thanks to last year's clients that took our 2015 Agenda survey and the amazing new printing company we've been working with (Quality Quick Printing), we've revamped everything about the Agenda and created something we know you'll love! Keep scrolling for detailed summaries and photos of the 2016 Agenda!!! (Then be sure to comment at the bottom with which part is your favorite addition!)
**If you can't wait any longer, click here or click on the above image to pre-order your 2016 Agenda!
***If you live in Huntsville and would like to pick up your agenda rather than pay shipping fees, please enter code HSVFREESHIP at checkout. Please note that you cannot use more than one coupon code. If you've received another coupon code, please use that and your shipping fee will be refunded when you pick it up.
Plan each day beautifully and thoroughly with the 171-page planner (86 front and back), bound with metal wire-O binding and featuring a list of nationally recognized holidays, weekly layouts, monthly layouts, an annual layout, scripture memory, goal planning and a section for brainstorming and notes in the back. Measuring 9" x 11", this agenda will fit perfectly in a large purse or will look real pretty sitting on top of your desk.
Last year's Dwell Richly scripture memory resource was a huge hit! God used His word in amazing ways to transform hearts and minds (including my own!!). It was such a joy to hear all about the ways our Father timed certain verses perfectly to fit with what was going on in your lives. We believe He will continue to do great things through the Dwell Richly verses. This year, we wanted to include more women in the preparation of the resource for this year. With a team of 23 women and the guidance of the Holy Spirit, we have compiled the 2016 Dwell Richly verses and included them into every weekly and monthly layout. We will also offer the resource in a PDF format like we did last year. Thank you to the amazing 23 women who partnered with us to make it happen!!
You asked for them and you got them! This year's agenda features large, lovely tabs setting apart each month. Not only that, but we added a seasonal watercolor floral bouquet coupled with a clean monthly calendar on each main tab page. Are you drooling yet?
The opposite page is a primarily blank page just waiting for you to fill it with notes, journaling, brainstorming, and all kinds of awesomeness! You can use this page to begin the next month or use it to finalize the previous month. I plan on filling this page with lots of ideas (no matter how great or not-so-great they are), doodles and beauty. What will you fill the page with?
List out your top goals for the month (personal, spiritual, relational, physical, you name it!), exciting things happening this month (big and small - any and every reason to celebrate!), and glimpses of grace (one of my favorite and much-needed sections). Use the etc. space for any brainstorming, illustrating or note-taking.
The second page of this spread includes the month's Dwell Richly verses for you to memorize (each week is also written on the weekly layouts); a place to list out projects around the house that need to be done, deep cleaned or bought (think curtains, pillows, new fixtures, etc.); a checklist entitled get it done for all of those tasks that need attention; and finally a section for special occasions (this is a great place to list out occasions such as birthdays, weddings, showers, etc. and write what needs to be done for those events such as planning it or purchasing a gift for the event).
Swoon. This is surprisingly one of my favorite parts of this agenda. I LOVE this large layout so that I can quickly glance at our family schedule when trying to plan weekend and weeklong events. The size of it leaves ample space for planning and lots of washi tape!! If you haven't experienced the combination of washi tape and planners - get ready to have your mind blown and your agenda beautified. My favorite sources for washi tape are Michaels and Hobby Lobby (gotta take full advantage of those coupons).
We tried to include everything you asked for this year in the weekly layout! Each day is listed vertically (without hours) featuring a box for you to write in your top goal for the day at the top and checkboxes for exercise and water intake at the bottom of each day. Fill in your top goals for the week at the top of the right side of the page. The bottom of the left page includes the meal planner for Monday through Sunday. You'll notice the letters S, W, and N as a place for you to circle your families' preferences on how dinner tasted: (S)taple, (W)inner, (N)ever again... because we all know that some Pinterest recipes win while others may not end up as victorious. On the opposite page, you'll find a two-column checklist for things to buy (you can use this as your grocery list, shopping list, whatever works best for you!) and a one-column checklist for must-do action items. Next to that, you'll see the month's calendar with the current week highlighted as well as the Dwell Richly verse for the week.
Could you ever get enough of this beauty? I don't think so. The gorgeous floral and feather illustrations were designed by the oh-so-talented Graphic Box. The front cover is adorned with breathtaking watercolor florals and paired with "2016 agenda" written in a sans serif font and hot pink brush script across the front. The bouquets flow onto the back cover to complete the design. The inside of the covers boast beautifully wild mint green brushed lines (see second photo of post).
Disclaimer: You asked for a hard cover in the survey but unfortunately, we are not able to offer that at the time. However, we worked with a different printing company this year (we love you Quality Quick Printing!!) and they worked with us to create a 110#, 16pt laminate cover. In other words, the covers are much more durable and thicker than last year. On the bright side, they're a lot lighter than a hard cover and just as beautiful. ;)
That about covers it, friends! Let us know which part of the new agenda is your favorite in the comment box below. Feel free to share the love with your friends via Facebook, Instagram and email.
Are you ready to order your 2016 Agenda? Even though we're only currently accepting pre-orders, don't fret! We will send out all pre-orders during the first week of October! You can pre-order your 2016 Agenda here.
If you are already on the list to receive email updates and notifications, you should have already received a 10% discount code to use on your first Agenda purchase. Be sure to use it! If you didn't receive the email or the discount code, contact us here and we'll get it taken care of ASAP! Not on the email list yet? Subscribe in the box below! **Only those who subscribed to the email list before September 4th will receive the 10% discount. Not to worry, we'll be sending other offers and discounts in the future!
If you're following along with the Scripture Memory / Dwell Richly printable, here's the verse for week 32:
And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. Romans 8:28 (NIV)
Welcome to (the not-so-secret) Secret Beach! As always, take lots of water and get ready for amazing views and fantastic adventure!
We had a little trouble actually finding the place to park for Secret Beach but To Hawaii's directions were super helpful: From Kuhio Highway (Hwy 56), turn onto Kalihiwai Road near mile marker 24 and turn right onto the first dirt road. Proceed to the end of it and park. Nearby is the trail leading to the west end of the beach.
The trail only takes about 10 - 15 minutes to walk down. It's pretty steep and a little slippery but, oh, so worth it! (You may be thinking it wasn't as worth it when you have to walk back up the trail.) JD and I went to the left as soon as we got down to the beach because we really wanted to see the Lava Pools. We passed a family on the way over to the Lava Pools but they didn't trek the whole way. It's pretty rocky so it may not be the best place to take young kids (even though it sounds amazzzing!!).
And it was, indeed, amazzzing! There are two small freshwater waterfalls that pour into the Lava Pool area. We recommend hanging out in the pools for a little bit then rinsing off the salt water under the waterfalls.
We really wish JD had his iPhone at this location. This would've been the perfect place to get a nice landscape panoramic! (If you missed a previous post, he fell over in his kayak with the phone in his back seat pocket - insert palm to the forehead here - so the circuits got wet and it went a little crazy; i.e. it died). A girl dropped her iPhone while she was crossing underneath the waterfall here too. This island really knows how to distract you from tech gadgets. ;)
After exploring the lava pools, we walked back to Secret Beach. JD found the perfect spot in between towering lava rocks where it was basically like our own little beach. There were actually a lot of people out on the beach this day so it was nice to feel secluded. We spread out our favorite giant blanket and basked in the Hawaiian sun.
Then we headed over to Kukui Grove Cinema to watch Jurassic World - because who wouldn't want to watch a movie that was filmed on the island they're staying on!? Side note: Kukui Grove was super old school - not in the cool, vintage old school way, but legitimately old school; it felt like we were in Mystery Science Theater because of the seating) but it was definitely an experience. And the theater had air conditioning, which is apparently a big bonus for anywhere on the island!
If you're following along with the Scripture Memory / Dwell Richly printable, here's the verse for week 29:
God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. Psalm 46:1 (NIV)
If you're looking for a lengthy yet leisurely trail with lots of breathtaking views, the Maha'ulepu Trail will be perfect for you. As always, bring lots of water. It's an adventure filled with incredible lithified sand dunes.
This trail was super close to our hotel in Po'ipu. You basically walk the coastline (and walk on the edge of a golf course at one point) then hit a semi-secluded beach at the end of the trail. We were running out of water (and daylight) so we didn't spend much time on the beach this day. However, we did drive back a few days later (incredibly bumpy dirty role with lots of pot holes - motion sickness almost got the best of me) and spent the afternoon bathing in the sun with only a couple of other people around. Bliss, my friends. Sheer bliss.
Here's the random, infamous pink chair...
You can also find an ancient open-roofed sandstone sinkhole called Makauwahi Cave but it was closed by the time we got there.
Welcome to the Grand Canyon of the Pacific (i.e. Waimea Canyon). We suggest starting early in the morning, driving all the way to the top first rather than stopping at viewpoints along the way. Since we hiked the Canyon Trail before heading all the way up the Canyon, we arrived to the Pu'u O Kila Lookout around noon. We hit it right when the afternoon clouds began rolling in.
Our favorite trail in the Canyon is the Canyon Trail. It has two entries. Coming down from the top, take the first Canyon Trail entrance (to your left) if you want to hike a shorter route (we didn't know about this route until we heard car doors opening and closing as we were hiking). We took the other trail head - very steep doing down and very steep going back up. However, this was, by far, the best-smelling trail we've ever ventured. So, that was nice.
There are two intersections along the trail. Go left at the first one (not the lookout), and go right at the sign that says Falls. You'll hike up some intense dirt pathways and end up on top of the exhilarating Waimea Canyon. Breathe in the view and take a few photos, though none will fully capture the beauty.
Continue walking down the trail to your left. You'll walk on top of some large rocks. Follow path to the left (not right). You may have to push through some tall brush. You'll find a waterfall and natural pool to your left. There's a giant rock to your right when you keep following the trail. We named it our Resting Rock and enjoyed a picnic on top of it.
After passing the Resting Rock, follow the path along the river and you'll find one more waterfall to your right along with a massive drop off for the giant waterfall!! This is also a great picnic spot if you can hold out that long.
We made a few friends along this trail, including a family from Slovakia, a local family (who let us in on a few local secrets), and a wonderful couple celebrating their 40th anniversary. They had intense trekking sticks and kept up with us the whole time. #respect
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