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places to go... get your shop on

Sunday is for shopping. That's what I always say! Today I have some awesome shops for you to check out if you're feeling the urge to do a little online shopping yourself!  These ladies are some of my sponsors this month so hop on over to their stores... some are even offering special discounts just for you lovely readers.  (p.s. I just had some sponsor spots open up, so if you want to grab one, go here).



{Meet Jessica N Designs}
Hi, I'm Jessica! I'm living my dream as an Indie Shop owner creating lovely hand stamped keepsakes & personalized jewelry. I'm a Wife, Mommy of 3, Romantic & a Dreamer. Lover of Jesus, my family, vintage, country music, coffee, books, lip gloss & DIY projects. I share my love of pretty things, my passion for this amazing handmade community & all the inspiration I gather over on my blog. Come say Hi!

Take 15% off at her shop with code WONDERFOREST



{Meet Violet D'Art}
I am a self taught photographer from Bulgaria. I love escaping into the world with my camera, and then out of it with the use of colors and textures. Not really limiting myself to one style, I always let my inspiration guide me in its own direction. From moody landscapes of the sea, the rain, the sky, to vintage inspired still life, travel and ttv photography. Self portraits are another way for me to experiment with my art, usually diving into daydreams and the surreal. Concert/rock photography is also a big passion of mine. I sell pretty photographs for home wall decor on Etsy and Society6.




{Meet Row House 14}
I'm Heidi, and I own an indie business, Row House 14, in which I design and make greeting cards and stationery. When I'm not making cards I love blogging about my designs, music, food, and our adventures in renovations of our historic Baltimore row house.


Take 15% off at her shop with code WONDERFOREST


{Meet When Shutters Click}
When Shutters Click Gifts offers jewelry, cards and accessories featuring original photography by Natalie Woods. Natalie picked up her first camera at the age of 15 and became instantly enthralled with capturing moments. Using both film and digital formats, she enjoys expressing herself and her view of the world through her images. In late 2011 she decided to mix her two interests, photography and crafting, to create these one of a kind pieces.

Take 25% off at her shop with code FOREST25



{Meet Daisical}
Daisical is a online boutique filled with handmade jewelry and vintage goods. Daisical’s vintage collection is mostly from a recent California buying trip, the pieces display a strong focus on feminine silhouettes and unique colors and prints. The jewelry line is all about color, statement and uniqueness with an emphasis on vintage styles.



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places to go... people to meet

Happy Saturday forest friends! How are you going to spend the day? I'm going to work on a little quilt and possibly work on some drawings. I vowed yesterday that I was going to start drawing more, because it occurred to me that I hadn't actually picked up a pencil and finished one in over 5 years! That is crazy talk considering I grew up with a sketchbook in my hands! You can check out my Instagram for a couple sneak peeks if you like. Also, not to bombard you with updates but I wanted to mention that I opened up a little Society6 shop because a lot of you said you were interested in iPhone cases, etc. So I have some up in there as well as a couple other things and will be adding more!

While I'm busy trying to get back into my drawing groove, here are some other awesome bloggers you should check out today! Take a gander and let me know what you think of these ladies below (p.s. Jess's floral headpiece... I'm in love!)!



{ Meet Jess }

Hey, I'm Jess a 20 year old Fashion student from London and full time crafter. I started my little blog only a few months ago along with my Etsy shop hoping that it will lead to new friends and new things. I am addicted! I post tutorials, beautiful things and so much more! My blog is about sharing my corner of the world with you all, I hope you stop by!

Use coupon code LOVEWONDERFOREST to recieve 15% off in my Etsy shop! Shop discount valid until 18th July! 

 


{ Meet Carly}

Hello all! I'm Carly, and I blog over at Lipgloss and Crayons. I'm an elementary school teacher, a newlywed, a Christian, and a fashion lover. On my blog you will find crafts, recipes, beauty tips, and fashion obsessions plus a little info about my life in the City of Angels. Stop by, and make sure you say hello.....I love meeting new friends!



{ Meet Traci}

Hiya there! I'm Traci. A quirky, tattooed, and colorful gal from beautiful Northwest Connecticut. Crazy wife to James and offbeat momma to Raine. Our life together is crazy. Plenty of absurd situations, colorful characters, and maybe even a touch of madness. We don't really go about things normally and things don't always make much sense.....its nonsense but it's just how we like it. Come on over and visit my blog where I tell you about all these nonsense things :)



{ Meet Danielle}

Danielle Faith is 20-something blogger with a passion for music, fashion, baking, creativity and art. Danielle Faith created her blog as a means to establish her identity and find her niche in the world. She hopes you enjoy reading her posts and would love it if you subscribed to her blog!



{ Meet Abby}

Hey guys, I'm Abby and I blog over at Only Impossible Until Done. I'm currently in my final year of University in New Zealand, studying media. I blog about anything and everything I feel like. At the moment I'm on a bit of a baking spree so come and visit me for some yummy recipes and stories from little old New Zealand.


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thoughts on that other post...





got a date dress: c/o chicwish
cardi/leggings: f21

I have to say that I was surprised at how many of you felt the same way as me about this post. I truly loved reading through all of your comments and even gaining some new perspectives on some things.

I did realize that even I am guilty of stopping by blogs often and not commenting or leaving my mark, and I honestly didn't even really think about it until now.  I am glad that the majority of you actually instilled some confidence back into me by letting me know that you do indeed read every single post, regardless of if you say anything or not, so thank you.

The whole topic was pretty interesting I think.  It got me thinking about how our world is now actually. With sites like Facebook and Twitter, etc. we're so used to just having conversations in 140 characters or less. I get it, I really do... I just started to wonder if maybe this has also affected how we communicate with people on a daily basis? People want short and sweet everything. Ok, that's probably a totally different topic now, haha, but just something else to think about. What do you think?

I think that when I started wondering about interaction and commenting, I was really playing out worst case scenarios in my head... thinking "oh maybe nobody likes the posts I spend the most time on!".  I also understand how when you blog, you should blog for YOU and that should come first. However, I also think that when you want to make your blog an actual source of income (because, let's face it, this is like a part time job for me almost) you do have to appeal to a wider audience.  Finding a balance in between the two is hard sometimes, especially when you have sponsors and people counting on you for certain things.

I got a few comments and emails about one thing in particular I want to touch on. I didn't realize that some of you considered my blog more "businessy" than anything. I both like this and hate this at the same time. 1. I like being able to share knowledge about things I know about and maybe even be a source of inspiration... but 2. The whole reason I started blogging regularly was to be more personal  so that my life wasn't all business. I guess I'm a little confused because I rarely post about business stuff, but it is interesting to see that I am still considered very business minded by some of you... Which I agree, I am, but I'm just not sure how that shows in my posts? Hmm...

Something you probably don't know that kind of started my whole "More time = less comments" issue... Dustin was a totally active blogger when I met him. He wrote hilarious stories about ridiculous stuff that happened in the world and whatnot.  In fact, when we first started talking online, he would send me links to all of his new posts. I honestly thought it was a little annoying but I read them anyways haha.  His stats were sooo good and people were actually reading all of his writings. Thousands a day. One problem though, he rarely ever got any feedback. I saw how much that affected what he did (he pretty much stopped blogging, which is a shame because he loved it) and I was honestly scared that I might not want to continue doing this either if I lose all inspiration.  It just made me sad. He would spend countless hours putting posts together. He is a perfectionist when it comes to writing (and actually really awesome at it!) and even after we met and he moved in with me he would sit there for HOURS typing away/editing and I could never understand why it took him so long!

So anyways, I've seen what the lack of encouragement and inspiration can do to someone first hand, and I wouldn't want anyone to have to go down that path, thinking that they are not good enough or something... Especially when in reality people do love what you do. I'm going to just keep on doing my thing and posting what I want to post (whether it takes a long time or not) and try not to care so much about comparing myself to others... Because nobody gets anywhere in life when they think they're only second best ;)

You guys are the bestest! (p.s. happy friday the 13th!) Learn more »

Let's get a little Rustic.... Plus a giveaway!


Is it Thursday already?!  These weeks seem to fly by so fast! I wanted to thank you all for your input and sweet comments on yesterday's post. I will do a follow up to that soon, but today I have my lovely friend Ashley taking over my blog! Ashley creates some of the prettiest shabby chic stuff that just screams "summertime" and I'm excited to share her work with you!  She's also giving away something special, so read on!...

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Hi everyone! I'm Ashley, country girl and shabby chic home decor enthusiast from Rustic Living. In my shop you will find rustic yet feminine items such as pillows, coasters, and table runners! I am so excited to be a part of the "get into summer series" here at Wonder Forest, Dana's blog is a daily must read for me!

One of the many things I love about summer is all the beautiful colors that seem to pop up at every turn. From the crisp blue flowing rivers and fiery orange/red sunsets to the blooming soft pastel-colored flowers. This is where I like to find my inspiration not only for a fun summer outfit, but also in craft projects! Today I would like to share with you some projects inspired by colors and textures that have really struck my fancy lately, all just right outside my door.







Thanks for taking a look at my projects, I'm excited to offer a 25% discount off everything in my shop to Wonder Forest readers! Use code wonderforest at checkout.

Check out Rustic Living for more shabby chic items and follow on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest!

Ashley is giving away ANY ONE ITEM from her shop!! How cool is that?! Enter to win below:

a Rafflecopter giveaway
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some thoughts on blogging lately




top: wildfox
shorts: c/o sheinside
headband/necklace: f21
hair tutorial: here

I'm getting a little bummed out about blogging lately. Before I say anything, I want you to know that I thought long and hard about posting this because I didn't want to come off as some whiny brat who makes a big deal about something not so big.  I decided to go ahead though because I know a lot of you are curious about this 'blogging' life and even ask me for advice. Well, with good advice there is also reality and I think it's important to share both. So, this is what's been on my mind...

I probably shouldn't be upset, but I can't seem to help it. Lately I've just been feeling like I put a lot of work into making this blog both a reflection of myself as well as an interesting place to come, with a variety of content. It actually takes a LOT of my time and I spend hours (and notebooks full of ideas) trying to come up with stuff that isn't just a "filler".  And I love that. It makes me able to be more proud of this little place. At the same time though, I get really discouraged when actual time is spent on a post and the response is so... dead.  Meaning very little reader interaction/response. Then, if I post something that literally took 15 minutes, everybody comes out of the dark.  It just makes me question the time I spend on here and makes me feel SO much less creative when the non-inspiring what-nots are the ones that people flock to. It's seriously killing my creative mojo!

I hope you get what I'm saying though...?  I'm trying not to sound like a biatch because I love all of you who come through here, and I know you're still coming even on the quiet days because I see you in my stats, which is awesome. So, I guess I'm just curious about this. It's always interesting to see for example, 100 comments on somebody's 5 second post that really took no effort, and then crickets on somebody else's who spent hours putting a cool tutorial or something together. I'm not necessarily just talking about myself. Having talked to a few of my bloggy friends about this very same thing, they seem to agree as well, so at least I know I'm not the only one with these thoughts. So what is happening? Are people just lazy or too busy to join in? Do they only come to certain blogs for specific content and ignore the rest? Or is the blogging community so over-saturated now that there are too many blogs to check out on a daily basis?

Anyways, those are my thoughts today. I guess there are still some things in this blogging world that are a mystery to me and I have yet to figure out.  It's just hard to feel inspired, encouraged, and creative when it seems like visitors are looking for quick reads and nothing else. So I ask you this: what are your favourite types of posts, and are you a regular commenter on blogs or do you just browse and leave? Learn more »

Healthy Summer Treats: Campfire Kisses!


I'm super excited about introducing you to today's guest poster!  Catherine is a gorgeous lady who quickly gained e-recognition for her awesome blog, Rabbit Food For My Bunny Teeth!  If you haven't already seen her on Pinterest, where have you been!?  Her blog consists of AH-MAZING (and really easy!) recipes for healthy eating and tells the inspiring tale of her weight loss journey and successes! She even created the Rabbit Food Pyramid which has become one of my go-to references.  Did I also mention how sweet she is? I'm sure you'll agree after reading this awesome summer inspired no-bake recipe (for real, the girl is a genius in the kitchen. We talked about coming up with campfire-esque healthy treats and she killed it!).

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Hi everyone, I'm Catherine: Los Angeles based healthy living blogger from Rabbit Food For My Bunny Teeth!

I am so excited to be guest posting for the very chic and stylish Dana today! Since it's summer and everyone is enjoying the great outdoors, we thought it would be fun to make some healthy camping treats! Camping is one of my favorite things to do in the summer. I love the hiking, building tents, hanging out with friends while cooking s'mores around the campfire, and sleeping under the stars. Being a total health-nut, I like to eat foods that provide nutrients and energy, so I have traded in the refined sugar of roasted marshmallows and s'mores for a healthier sweet treat: Campfire Kisses!


These simple no bake "kisses" are filled with nutrient dense ingredients that are healthy without sacrificing flavor. Instead of indulging in one too many s'mores or roasted marshmallows, you can treat yourself to some decadent Campfire Kisses that will leave you feeling energized and healthy, while still satisfying your sweet tooth and s'mores carving. Each kiss is wrapped up into a piece of foil making them an easy no fuss camping treat that you can enjoy on the trail or around the campfire.

Since not everyone is a diva in the kitchen, I'm giving you the ultimate easy peasy no-bake healthy dessert recipe that anyone can make! Plus, it only requires 5 ingredients! What's not to love?


Campfire Kisses
Makes 10 kisses

2 graham crackers + 1 for outer "crust"
1/2 cup unsalted cashews
1 cup Medjool dates - pitted
1 1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract
2 tbsp mini chocolate chips (or carob chips for a vegan option)
Optional: 1 Tbsp ground flaxseed for a boost of healthy omega-3s

Place 1 graham cracker in a food processor or blender and process until finely ground. Empty the graham cracker contents into a bowl and set aside, as it will be used to roll the kisses in later. Combine cashews and 2 graham crackers (and flaxseed if desired) in a food processor and grind until they become very finely ground, but not a butter. Remove pits from dates. Once pits have been removed, add the dates and vanilla into the food processor. Process until the contents are evenly chopped/combined and form a sticky dough. Remove dough from the food processor and fold in chocolate chips by hand or mixing spoon. Using a 1tbsp measuring spoon, scoop the dough into balls and roll evenly in your hands. Roll the ball through the bowl of ground graham cracker, coating it evenly (this will add flavor and prevent the kisses from sticking to the foil!). Wrap each ball separately in a 4x4in piece of tinfoil and twist off the tops like Hershey Kisses.

Take your Campfire Kisses on your next hiking trip or store in the refrigerator for 1 week, or freezer for up to 1 month.
 
For more healthy recipes, tips, and tricks hop on over to Rabbit Food For My Bunny Teeth and follow on Twitter, Facebook, and Pinterest!
Health & Happiness! xo

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Bronzed Beauty: Golden Smokey Eye Tutorial


This summer, I've been obsessed with golden eyeshadow. I just think that it is such a perfect shade for summer and brightens up your whole face with a bronzed glow. I wanted to throw together a little 8 step tutorial showing you how I create my typical summer eye. Step by step instructions are below!



1. Prepare your face and prime your eyes. I used Urban Decay's Primer Potion.
2. Fill your entire lid with a velvety gold or bronze eyeshadow. I used Mac shadow in Woodwinked, which is one of my absolute all-time favs!
3. Brush some medium to dark matte brown shadow onto the outer corner of the lid, and sweep it up and over your crease. Blend well. I used Rock & Republic shadow in Tribal (another of my favs).
4. Continue with that same brown and brush it under your lower lash line. Keep it close to your lashes.
5.  Highlight your brows by brushing on a matte white shadow with a flat brush. I used Everyday Minerals shadow in Bundled Up. Blend it into the brown so it's not so harsh.
6.  Curl your lashes and line the upper lids with a kohl liner. I winged my tip a little. I used Rimmel Soft Kohl Kajal liner in black.
7. Continue lining under your eye and on your waterline.
8. Add mascara to your top and bottom lashes. I used Rimmel Lycra Lash Extender.

That's all there is to it, friends!
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