friday five ...

i've been growing out my hair for as long as i can remember.  i'm hoping it's finally long enough to attempt side braids.  here are a few styles i'll be practicing:  this romantic side braid tutorial comes via oncewed.com, this half-up dutch braid via RagstoStitches, this loose braid tutorial via barefoot blonde and this braid in braid look via thebeautydepartment.com.

a few of my close friends have taken up knitting. they claim it to be extremely therapeutic and a great opportunity to reflect upon their day(s).  they knit everywhere and anywhere.  early in the morning, while watching a movie or television, while watching their child's sport practice.  one close friend even shared that she loves knitting while listening to a focus on the family podcast because she believes she knits the details of the talk into the layers of her piece.  what a great reminder of a powerful sermon!    i am constantly in awe of the amazing shawls they have created, and upon seeing this post via bleubird, may have found the inspiration to follow along and get started.  rebekka seale of camellia fiber company is contributing to the post and beginning the series with information on the basics of knitting, demonstrating a step-by-step guide, and the necessary supplies needed to start.  i definitely intend on following along since i can do it from the comfort of my own home when time permits!

throwing a valentine's day bash? then you'll definitely need adorable party favors to go with all your cupcakes, cookies, and candies!  pop on over to tomkat studio and shop the absolutely adorable be my valentine collection.  from printable invites to preppy balloons to the chevron accessories to the simply sweet printable collection, it was love at first sight!  it seriously is a one-stop shop for all things cute and pretty and fun.  i am in love with all the free printables and party accessories.  it makes me want to throw a party for every holiday! this one-stop shop does not disappoint!

searching for some cute festive clothing to wear for valentine's day?  look no further!  here's a sweet roundup for you and/or your littles:

clothing : this dress or this dress, this old navy heart print sweatshirt, this Equipment hearts printed shirt (splurge version), this 'heart dot' shirt (save version), this 'queen of hearts' striped sweater, these adorable jeggings, this sweater (my favorite choice!), this tapestry print sweater dress, and lastly, this ann taylor loft heart print shirt.

accessories : these socks, this delicate heart necklace, these delicate heart earrings, this hat, this iPhone case

girls : little girls' pants, this sweater, these heart print leggings or these leggings (so cute!), this graphic tee, little girls sweater, these mini boden heart patch pants, this adorable heart print bikini, these yogi samra flats, baby girls' dress, these heart print tights

boys : little boys' tshirt, this red & blue checked shirt (limited quantities!), this baby boys' onesie, this 'love you' baby boy sweater, this Intarsia heart sweater one-piece

im dying to get a manicure. my nails are in desperate need of some TLC, especially after being out in the cold this past week.  hang nail central and my cuticles are a hot mess.  and, i always feel it puts the finishing touch on any outfit.  i'm loving a few red colors right now.  check out this line of red essie polish colors, this YSL 'la lacque couture' nail lacquer, or this dior 'vernis' nail enamel. perfect. i should probably invest in this cuticle nail care polish while i'm at it!

happy friday!



images :  bleubird // the sweetest occasion // stylish trendy

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