Design on the Mind

I've always loved design but lately I've been really obsessing about it. I've been reading lots of blogs and getting super inspired! So I've made a few resolutions for 2009...


1. Learn how to sew. I'm yearning to make drapes, duvet covers, and throw pillows from vintage fabrics. I want to sew Ireland little dresses and make monster dolls for Aiden. So step one, learn how to sew. (image via www.prettylittlethings.typepad.com)



2. Start shopping thrift stores and flea markets for furniture and decor. Our house has such charm and whimsy - I don't want to fill it up with Ikea! I'm craving mid-century modern mixed with vintage. Classic pieces with a modern twist. Pops of color in funky accessories. Time to get shopping! (image via www.mycakies.blogspot.com)



3. Create a space just for me. I need an office in our house, somewhere I can go to feel creative. I'm thinking something like this. (image via www.droozstudio.blogspot.com)



4. Learn photography! I probably should have listed this as number one since this is my number one resolution for 2009. I'm hoping 2009 will bring a camera and some photography classes. (image via www.shannonsewell.com - one of my favorite photographers and such an inspiration!)


5. Bake. Okay, so this doesn't have a whole lot to do with design, but I'm considering it part of my 2009 creative makeover. I'm not much of a cook, and probably never will be. But I do enjoy baking and who couldn't use a few more cupcakes in their life, right? (image via www.bakerella.com)

6. Share. I'm hoping to share my design journey here on The Novice Mom through my words and lots and lots of photos! I'm so excited, aren't you?!

Dedicated to the Cause

Yikes, guess I'm not as great at blogging as one would think! Jason gets on me all the time that I don't update our family blog, and I feel bad about that. I need to update more often, take more pictures, and be better about documenting this very special time in my life. But here's the honest truth. In the last couple of weeks I have finally come to terms with the fact that I'm a stay-at-home mom. I'm a SAHM...who would have guessed?! I've been fighting that title for so long, that it feels strange to finally embrace it.

But I am embracing it. Because the truth is, as much as I want to be a WAHM (work-at-home mom) I've got to get this mom thing down first. So here's the deal. I've been shutting down the computer more, doing the dishes everyday, and keeping my house somewhat (gasp) clean and orderly. I make Aiden breakfast. We've been practicing his numbers more and watching television less. I'm thinking about cooking and contemplating a weekly meal plan. Heck, I'm even going to my first Carnation Mom's Night Out this week...I must be a SAHM!

And you know what, it feels good. I actually really enjoy being a mother. Not that I haven't always enjoyed being a mother, but I'm almost to the point where it's enough...almost.

Really, I've just enjoyed being in the moment more with my family. And I am SO SO SO excited for the things we have coming up in the near future.

I've been able to take a step back from everything...all of my lofty ideas...and have realized that I just want to be the best mother and wife that I can be. And as for my career aspirations? Well, that's a whole other blog post altogether.

So good things are happening with the Thomas fam. Most importantly, love is overflowing in our little house...

but no more babies...

for now. :)