• 01.05.2011 Celebrating 500 {guest post by Jennie of Big Wide Porch}
    Celebrating 500 {guest post by Jennie of Big Wide Porch}
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    My guest blogger today is Jennie, from Big Wide Porch! Jennie and I hit it off right away when she sent me an unexpected email about fashion. I so enjoy her sense of humor and easy going attitude. I hope you do too: My husband laughs every time I mention my friend in New Mexico. Having met someone is apparently criteria for my husband’s friendships. I’m not sure when I stumbled upon Gracelaced, but Ruth’s beautiful blog has become a place of rest and encouragement for me in recent years. When the lunch dishes are done and the kids are tucked into their beds for nap or quiet time, I often check in, just to see what she’s up to. And I usually walk away from my computer inspired to create, cook something fabulous for dinner, be more patient with my kids, or wake just a bit earlier to be […]

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  • 06.11.2010 Breezy Beanie
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    It may be possible that you have bad hair days as I do. Or just plain ol’ roll-outta-bed hair days. We fondly refer to those days at our house as “hat days.” However, sweltering summer heat precludes me from enthusiastically donning a hat other than the ubiquitous summer straw hat. (Think black hair and enclosed space on top of my head.) I love straw hats. I just find them impossible to wear while driving, silly to wear indoors, and altogether itchy if worn all day! I want a hat that breathes, looks cute, and can be worn doing chores or going out. And now I have one. I never win anything, but lo and behold, a few weeks ago I was the randomly chosen winner of a giveaway hosted by fellow etsyian Jenster76. Wouldn’t you know I won a cute beanie that makes for breezy summer hat wearing! Here it […]

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  • 05.11.2010 Stylin'
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    I don’t know that looking good makes it to the top five of my daily priorities. Most days, I’m doing really well if I get a shower in. These are the days that my boys will say, “Mama, you look so beautiful!” Beautiful, because I actually did my hair and put on clothes that matched. This is a letter I recently received from a reader: Hi Ruth! I so enjoy your blog, and share your heart for your home and family! Thanks for helping me do better, even from afar…if you lived closer, I’m sure we’d be friends:) So, if you have two seconds, I have a question. Where do you shop for clothes? I have so little time and seem to only pick up things from Target these days! I was sorting through my clothes today…after 3 babes in 4 years, I don’t know what fits! I realized I […]

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  • 03.04.2010 What To Do With Cute Boots
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    What’s a girl to do when she finds Gianni Bini cowgirl booties at 70% off, and a gift card to buy them with? Wear them at home, of course… …during recess in the backyard… …while practicing photography skills on herself as a shoe model… …and, while on a 5 minute date with her Main Squeeze Number 3.

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  • 11.03.2009 Dress Design For Shabby Apple Dresses
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    If you are susceptible to feminine dresses, you will find yourself swooning for the pretty confections offered at Shabby Apple Dresses. This online candy store is having a dress designing contest, and yours truly is entering two designs. If selected as a finalist, my design will be considered for their spring line based on popular vote. What are the chances? Fun to play designer for a day anyhow! Here’s the contest announcement: And, here are my entries: The “Ava”: in natural linen or linen-blend with ruffles in teal or white cotton. A detachable ruffled rose belt and covered buttons finish off this ultra-feminine look. I designed this dress to play off the ruffle trend with a classic, conservative profile. Wear it with playfully hued heels to liven up the tailored look. The “Faye”: in light gray knit on top and crisp gray cotton on bottom for a two piece look […]

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