Archive for March, 2014

CUT AND CUFFED

Friday, March 28th, 2014

cut and cuffed

All winter I wore a pair of Old Navy Rockstar skinnies.  The price is right-on and they are super comfortable.  Since I am only 5′ {with heels} they wore really long, but I liked the look with my boots.  Now that spring has arrived, the length was bugging me.  At full-price they are under $35, so I didn’t want to pay to get them hemmed.  While I am no seamstress, I can use a pair of scissors.  My solution to the length problem was just to cut and cuff them!

Step 1: Cuff jeans to the desired length.

Good lord!  Yes, I am ridiculously short!  A cuff that big would look comical.  {They needed to be cut!}

step 1 cuff

Step 2:  Measure for the length of the desired cuff.

I wanted my cuff to be about 2″, so I used my trusty sewing ruler.

step 2 measure

Step 3:  Draw a straight line and flip inside out.

Using a straight edge, I drew a line 2″ higher {than the desired length} on each leg and then flipped the jeans inside out.

step 3 flip inside out

Step 4:  Cut and wash.

Using sharp sewing scissors I cut both legs at the measured line.  It is important to wash the jeans or they won’t fray.  {And it just looks silly if they are cut and not frayed.}

step 4 cut and wash

I am so happy with the finished look that I am going to do the same thing with a pair of Rockstar White Super Skinny Jeans.  If you didn’t want to cuff the jeans, just cut at the desired length and wash.  Easiest and least expensive alterations you will ever find.  ROCK ON!

P.S.  So here’s the deal.  I am not a fashion blogger.  I totally get that!  Rest assured, there will not be future posts of me modeling my outfit of the day.  Yesterday I needed a shot of my finished project so I set up my handy tri-pod and snapped the top photo.  Self-timer action was in full effect.  It was pure entertainment for the landscaping crew working next door.  I can only imagine what they were saying about me!  xoxo

 

JUST ADD COLOR

Wednesday, March 26th, 2014

just add color

This really isn’t much of a DIY.  It’s more of an idea on how to add color to your table!  While getting ready for a party last week, I decided that my little bamboo forks needed a pop of color.  I dug out a tube of acrylic paint that I bought on clearance.  {I simply bought it because I LOVED the shockingly, bright pink color!}.  Using a painters tape, I taped the forks to a piece of paper and painted the tops with a sponge brush.  When they dried, I flipped them and painted the other side.  It took really no time at all to paint 30 little forks.  And they turned out awesome.

Aren’t they darling in that black cup?  I am thinking they will be fantastic painted yellow in the summer.  Oh, the possibilities are endless!!

paint them

bamboo forks with a pop

 

{AFTER SCHOOL SNACK} HALFPOPS

Tuesday, March 25th, 2014

half popped

While goldfish are great fall back snack, the boys in my house enjoy variety!  We {all of us} LOVE Halfpops!  Air popped locally in Seattle, this super crunchy snack is perfect in the afternoon!  My favorite flavor is Butter & Pure Ocean Salt.  HELLO!  And they are made with all-natural ingredients.   Gluten free, nut free, no corn syrup, no artificial flavors, no hydrogenated oils, no preservatives.  Well, Halfpops are virtually health food!

Now that I will be watching four baseball games a week, I am going to stock up!  Moms need snacks, too.

kernels of goodness

 

TRAVEL TREASURES

Tuesday, March 25th, 2014

stacked bowls

In the summer of 1999, my husband had the chance to travel to Israel for work.  He was invited by clients who lived and worked in Tel Aviv.  We were not married {or engaged} at the time, but we planned to take the trip together.  I was teaching and summer was the PERFECT time to take a long trip. Unfortunately, the cost of my air fare {the only cost out-of-pocket} proved not to be in our budget.  We didn’t make much money at the time and the numbers didn’t seem to add up.  Sadly, I did not go on the trip and Aaron went alone.  {In hindsight, we should have just gone for it!  It was a trip of a lifetime and we were being overly practical, in my opinion.  But that is another post’s topic}.

Lucky for me, Aaron made a wise choice when purchasing something to remember Israel.   He bought hand-painted, ceramic bowls while on a day trip to Jerusalem.  As you can see they are lovingly nicked and stained.  We use them often.  Every time I reach for them I love that they have a story.

The bowls have proven to be the perfect travel treasure.  A beautiful item with practical use.  I have been thinking about what I would like to buy on our trip to Italy.  My list is short at the moment:  a pair of sandals and something for my home.  I read an article over the weekend that touted olive oil and balsamic vinegar as the top souvenirs to bring back from Italy.  That sounds like a disaster waiting to happen!

What have proven to be your FAVORITE travel treasures?

bowl edge

 

FOUR TO FOLLOW

Friday, March 21st, 2014

four to follow

Do you Instagram??  It is quickly becoming my favorite social-media site.  Something about  4×4 pictures that makes me outrageously happy!  I decided to start a series called Four to Follow.  Just a quick heads up on four accounts I think you might like {or love}!  If you are not on Instagram, I highly recommend it.  Come play…it’s super fun!

@darlingmagazine

The official account for the magazine Darling.  As self described: “Darling isn’t just a magazine, it’s a movement. Our print magazine is a guidebook to lead you through the seasons of the year and your life. We exist to encourage and empower women and be a voice of love.”  I subscribe to the print magazine as well as follow them on Instagram.  I am blown away by their mission and their pictures are inspiring.  Darling is the art of being a woman.

@ascotandhart

Ascot and Hart is an online store founded by the girls behind Target Does It Again.  Their style is mix between boho and grunge.  I always love the outfits they put together and their original style!

@taylorsterling

Taylor Sterling is the founder of Glitter Guide.  Her account is flooded with details from her everyday life, Glitter Guide adventures and her darling baby girl, Elodie.

@dschwen

The Instagram account of David Schwen is creative in every sense.  I can’t really put his images into words….you just have to see them!  Each day I smile when I see his fun and original posts.

Do you have any accounts that you love to follow?

Pssst……follow me too!  @seattlejune

{All images via featured Instagram accounts}

 

MY PERFECT WHITE T

Thursday, March 20th, 2014

my perfect white T

Everyone needs the basic wardrobe staple, a plain white T.  I love denim paired with a white t-shirt.  Add a few accessories and you have the perfect no fuss outfit!   While it may seem ridiculous, I have four STEADFAST requirements for t-shirts {of any color}.  Everyone’s body type calls for a different type of t-shirt.

The following describes my perfect white T:

A “V” or scoop neckline.  I am quite busty.  These two necklines are the most flattering for girls with curves up top.

Light weight cotton.  The lighter material the better. Heavy cotton T’s add bulk, which no one wants.  Be careful when buying thin white T’s.  Unless you plan to wear a bright, colorful bra {a bold move} you don’t want the T to be see through.  Make sure to try it on with the bra you plan to wear.

Short/cap sleeve.  A cap sleeve is the most flattering on me.  The sleeve hem hits right at the thinnest part of my arm. I don’t know about you, but I usually judge a picture a “keeper” if my arms look good.

A loose but feminine cut.   Thanks to my children and middle-age my mid-section is the least favorite part of my body.  If the t-shirt is too tight, it only accentuates this “problem area” {God, I hate that term!}.  I prefer a loose, but feminine, cut that skims my body but doesn’t cling to my tummy.

So that is my perfect T.  If I had a different body type I would love to play with the classic T and tons of layered necklaces or a boat neck t-shirt paired with classic trousers.  But I don’t, so I stick to what looks best on me.

Have you thought about it?   What are the requirements for YOUR perfect white T?

Top T-shirt:  James Perse V-Neck

Bottom T-shirt:  Splendid Very Light Jersey Scoop Neck

 

THE ALL-AMERICAN SLIDER

Wednesday, March 19th, 2014

The All-American Slider

Yes, I do love to cook and I try new recipes all of the time.  Many of them include healthy, whole foods like kale and squash.  But sometimes you just need a good burger.  I have pretty much perfected the slider, or mini burger.  Or at least Big W thinks so.  These are totally kid approved!

The All-American Slider

1 lb of organic ground beef {10% fat}

1 tbs. Lawry’s Seasoned Salt

2 tsp. {low sodium} Soy Sauce

3 slices Tillamook Medium Cheddar Cheese

12 King’s Hawaiian Original Hawaiian Sweet Rolls

Combine beef, seasoning, and soy sauce with your hands.  Make small patties by using your palm as the guide.  The patty should will be no bigger than your palm.  Grill or cook on the stove stop until done to your liking.  Just before taking the burgers off the heat, cut each slice of cheese into quarters {or fold and break apart with your hands} and top each patty with cheese.  Place into sliced rolls and serve!

I think the secret is the Lawry’s and the rolls.  Who doesn’t love those incredibly soft, sweet Hawaiian rolls?  You can jazz these up with guacamole, bacon, or barbeque sauce.  My boys like them simply with ketchup.  The All-American Slider.  You can’t go wrong!

 

73 QUESTIONS {OR SO} WITH ME

Tuesday, March 18th, 2014

spring

After yesterday’s sort of heavy post, I decided to lighten things up a bit today.  It is inspired by a Vogue Video interview.  A quick-paced, lighthearted interview with one of my favorite stars, Sarah Jessica Parker.  73 questions with simple answers.  For fun, I answered the same questions below.  {Well, most of them.}

How long have you lived in the area?  12 1/2 years.

What is your favorite season in Seattle?  SUMMER!

What is your favorite activity in Seattle?  Anything involving the water.

Would you ever leave?  Maybe. Never say never.

What are 3 words to describe Seattle?  Green.  True.  Diverse.

What is your favorite movie?  Good Will Hunting

Favorite movie in the past 5 years?  American Hustle

Favorite TV show that is currently on?  Mad Men.

A book I plan on reading?  The Eye Has to Travel.

A book that positively shaped me?  Lord of the Flies.

A book you read in school that you never think of?  As I Lay Dying.

On a scale of 1-10, how excited are you about life?  9.5

iPhone or Android?   iPhone

Twitter or Instagram?  Instagram

Vine or Snapchat?  Neither.

Favorite downtown restaurant?  Revel {Seattle}.

Least favorite food?  Oysters.

Favorite drink.  Moscow Mule

Dark chocolate or milk chocolate?  Milk chocolate

Hardest part of being a mom?  Stopping myself from rescuing my boys.

Favorite band?  Mumford and Sons

Favorite lyrics?  Love your curves and all your edges. Your perfect imperfections.

Which instrument would you like to master? Guitar

Where would you get a tattoo?  My right shoulder blade.

Dogs or cats?  Neither.

Dolphins or koalas?  Dolphins.

Bird watching or whale watching?  Whale watching.

Historical person you would like to have coffee with?  Diana Vreeland

What is the last gift you gave?  A Nintendo 3DS game and a Minecraft keychain.

How do you like your coffee?  Short Americano with room.

Favorite curse word?  Sh*t.

Favorite board game?  Pictionary.

A country you wish to visit?  Italy {eeek!}

Favorite color?  Coral.

Least favorite color?  Beige.

What color was your prom dress?  Red.

Diamonds or pearls?  Diamonds.

Heels or flats?  Heels.

Blow dry or air dry?  Air dry.

Jogging or swimming?  Jogging.

Pilates or yoga?  Barre.

Favorite way to decompress?  Lay in the sun.

If you could have one superpower, what would it be?  Telekinesis

Now, hear SJP answer the same questions and get a peek into her home.  It is worth watching!

Photo via Instagram.  Follow me @seattlejune!

Have more time?  Get to know me a little better:

10 Things about Me

Live to 100

Ready Steady Go!

 

 

 

A HEARTFELT THANK YOU!

Monday, March 17th, 2014

A BIG KISS

While writing my blog must still be considered a hobby-since I don’t receive any income from it-during the last year I shifted thinking of it as much more. People do this kind of thing full-time and make a living.  Here’s what I know.  I love doing it!  How great would it be if this was my job?  It has inspired me to learn new skills, push through fear, sit with disappointment, and appreciate support.  I have running lists in my head of posts and ideas.  Writing and creating content is my most favorite thing to do during the week.  I adore what I do.

Like in any industry there are super stars.  Recently, I felt myself being envious of these rockin’ chicks, who seem to have it all going on.  HUGE partnerships with companies, travel opportunities, photo shoots, free designer loot, and on and on.  I was throwing myself little, daily pity parties.  Yuck. Then I checked myself.  Jealousy green doesn’t look good on me, even on St. Patrick’s Day.  That shit {pardon me for actually spelling out a 4-letter word} will get me no where.  Gave that up somewhere in my 30’s and I am NOT going back.  So, I began leaving comments on my favorite bloggers’ posts wishing them well and complimenting them on a job well done.  Put good out into the world feels so much better.

I  also forced myself to do the same for Where is June.  I listed my blogging accomplishments since last July.  It was such an empowering exercise.  And here’s the thing-writing a blog makes no difference unless someone reads it.  It might only be eighty people on a given day, but I have readers that are lovely, caring and supportive.  A few of them joined me yesterday in my home for a little thank you party.  My plan was to take pictures and share with you the details- but I didn’t snap one photo.  And I am glad I didn’t.  I was thoroughly enjoying the amazing women that came to celebrate.  In our social media age, life and blogs often appear gorgeous and perfect through a lens.  However, the party and fun happen when you put the phone down and are part of the moment.  You don’t need a 4×4 picture to let you know you are fun, beautiful, and how very lucky you are!

So, a huge heartfelt thank you and a big {hot pink} kiss from me to you.  Keep reading and share the love.  xoxo

**As another thank you, if you place an order of $100 or more from my Where is June? {loves} Stella & Dot trunk show, my dear friend Regan will add the Cleopatra studs {one of my favorites} as an extra special gift.

 

A WEEKLY PLAN

Friday, March 14th, 2014

A Weekly Plan | WHERE IS JUNE?

Spring schedules are nuts already!  No better time than to have a plan.  We all have to put dinner on the table.  I find when I have a plan my family eats better, I am calm(er), and meal time is less of a chore.  I primarily search for recipes that are healthy, quick and easy, use basic (whole) ingredients, and are gluten and dairy free.

These are a few meals we have enjoyed recently. I hope you can find at least one meal to add to your menu next week.  Enjoy your weekend!

1// Spring Salad

I added chicken to make this a complete meal for dinner.  There weren’t blood oranges at the grocery store, so I used a cara cara orange instead.  This was delicious with fig & walnut vinaigrette.

2// Stuffed Bell Peppers

Stuffed peppers are one of my most favorite meals.  I searched and searched to find a recipe that didn’t use cheese to bind the ingredients.  This is it.  Super tasty and wonderful as leftovers as well.

3//Roast Pork Tenderloin & Apples w/ Mushroom Saute

A basic roasted pork tenderloin.  The star of this dinner is the apples with mushroom saute.  Oh. MY!  Give this one a try for sure.

4// Slow Cooker Quinoa, Chicken, Kale Soup

Perfect for rainy spring evenings that are busy right up until dinner.  Cook the soup all day and then add the kale right before dinner.  Simple ingredients, easy to make, and so good for you.

5// Turkey Lettuce Wrap Tacos

A twist on your basic taco.  The addition of green chilis, beans and salsa make it a complete meal.  Can be served in taco shells if you are wanting more of a crunch.  {Warning:  my kids turned their noses up with all the additions.  It appears they are taco purists.  Just meat, mom.}

6// Spaghetti Pizza Pie {Paleo}

The spaghetti in this pie is actually spaghetti squash.  No cheese used in this recipe.  Just squash, Italian sausage {I used chicken sausage}, pizza sauce, onions, dried basil and eggs.  6 ingredients and a fantastic meal.  It does take an hour to bake, plus the 25 minutes or so to roast the squash so give yourself plenty of time.  My husband thought this was great, which was a pleasant surprise.  More paleo recipes may be in our future.

All meals are gluten free and dairy free because that is how we roll!

Images via recipe sources.

 

Where is June?

 

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