True North

compass necklace at express yourself: $24.00

It seems especially true these days that we all seek our true path.

A new path perhaps. Or our true calling.

We seek direction and guidance.

Whether we are world travelers

or locals looking to stay put,

we can all certainly put our internal compass to test

to see which way is our way.

Here are some items that are particularly useful in

reminding you of where you are

and where you are going.

compass wall art from ChuckEBrydWallArt on Etsy

compass notebook from Julie Boyles on Etsy

compass place cards from LHCalligraphy on Etsy

A Little Birdie Told Me...

No...we're not talking about Twitter.

We don't tweet.

We do things the old fashioned way around here.

Smoke signals, pony express and a first-class stamp are more our style.

(Yes, we do realize we're blogging this very moment...)

Instead of limiting ourselves to 140 characters of what the current state of affairs is around here, we opt to send letters in the mail. You know, like the good old days? When the only news you really needed came by post.

Here's a lovely box of stationery sure to get your words on paper once again.

Mudlark Stationery Set: $22.50

Silver Bird: $18.00

Picture This

We love these wee little frames

for framing all the wee little ones in our life.

Perfectly sized for a school photo

they are cheery and perfect for any nursery, bedroom

or even the kid's bathroom!

And so pleasantly priced too.

Milano Animal Frames: $16

Mom Monday

This week is all about MOM.

Because even though every day should be Mother's Day,

it officially comes once a year.

This year celebrate your Mom(s) on Sunday, May 10th.

For a mom that enjoys cooking,

try the Kitchen Playdates book

so she can cook up a storm with her little ones.

And for those mothers more likely to be found in Downward Dog

than in the kitchen, there is Fit Mama.

Perfect for the new mama in your life.

For those moms who shout at their kids

and it sounds exactly like their own mother,

there is the Anne Taintor book

I'm Becoming My Mother.

Whichever mother is in your life,

Whether as your mom or your wife,

There is always a way to celebrate her way,

Especially this Mother's Day.

Happy May Day!

In the 20th Century, May Day was often celebrated with baskets of flowers adorning your neighbor's front door. A sweet, anonymous surprise that has faded from our traditions.

In the words of Louisa May Alcott:

"...It was the custom of the children to hang them on the doors of their friends the night before May-day..."

Consider gathering some flowers, creating a simple and pretty paper cone and show your neighbor some bloomin' love.

Follow these simple instructions here.

Photo via Flikr and John Morgan

The 3/50 Project

As small business owners, our credo is:

Do Something Local Every Day

You can substitute your town/city with the word "local".

It really is that simple.

The 3/50 Project is dedicated to supporting the local businesses.

How? Commit to spending $50 a month in three locally owned, independent businesses.

Why? For every $100 spend at locally owned, independent businesses,

$68 goes back into the local economy.

For every $100 spent at national retailers,

only $43 goes back into the local economy.

As local business owners since 2004, we have recently

taken the opportunity to participate.

This project brings the facts to the forefront

about the stake we each claim in supporting our local economy.

You can join The 3/50 Project by visiting their website.

Anyone can register as a supporter whether you are a storefront retail store, brick and mortar business, association, group, manufacturer, wholesaler, sales agency, national/regional brand name, council member, or individual.

Registration is free, flyers are free, information is free.

Educating ourselves and each other on the positive economic impact

of supporting local businesses is priceless.

We are excited to be a part of this project,

both as a business and as individuals.

We hope you are too.

Taco Tuesday

One tradition that we love celebrating is

Taco Tuesday!

With family and friends joining us

it's a great and easy dinner.

And what goes oh so well with tacos?

Margaritas, of course!

Here are some of our favorite marg invites:

invitation by Inviting Co.

invitation by Stevie Streck

And if you want a great margarita

visit Bethenny Frankel's website

for this recipe.

Here's to traditions.

We'll drink to that!