Turning 24, goals, and other tidbits

I am officially 24. I am actually beginning to feel like an adult (save the sweatpants, wacky creative impulses, lack of a real job...hmm) But who out there really wants to grow-up? I kind of hope I never do. Anyways, one my my goals for 24 is to figure a few things out like what I'm going to do with my life.  I have a degree in Architecture, and I am taking classes in Interior Design so I know where my passions lie. But several rounds of  job applications have been busts and there is always a thought lingering in the back of my mind about working for myself (sounds less intimidating than starting my own business, but, in essence, is the same). Terrifying because I do not know if I would be successful (I have a tendency to like straight A's and thumbs up) and how long I would be doing it...babies, husband, home, job. How can you balance it all? End of mind-vomit.

On a lighter note, 24 is the year that I begin painting. I don't know what this looks like yet, but have been researching oils vs. acrylics, techniques and supplies needed and really really  want to do this. (So does my mom and older brother, the von Trapp family painters) I am hesitant to show y'all the type of painting that I want to do because that's alot to live up to. But rest assured, it will be colorful and probably not bound by reality.

Speaking of 24. Nate had a wonderful weekend planned for my birthday including two dinners out (my favorite thing to do). One of them included a surprise from my best friend for dinner. AND crazy fun bowling with about 20 of our friends here in Charlotte. I have to follow up this Thursday with his 25th birthday. Please note Nate with his thumbs up in the group picture...awkward.

I love birthdays

It isn't even 9:30 and already Nate has surprised me with flowers, a balloon, and coffee with a chocolate filled croissant from Dean and Deluca. Max has commandeered the balloon and has been carrying it around the house and Reacher thinks the balloon is an intruder and eyes it with animosity. I love birthdays.

Surprise birthday cake for me and Nessa our freshman year of college (her birthday was monday). We now need to get together and discuss this phenomenon of aging and all of the wisdom that I can feel filling my head as I type. Can I legitimately post a happy birthday picture for myself? Yes, I think so. 

Green with envy

I wanted to share with y'all the adorable invitations that we picked for Baby Girl Barham's shower. We wanted the shower invitation to be gender neutral so those manly-men would not feel intimidated. From here. And bonus points, the mommy-to-be's favorite color is green.

Hit me, Craigslist, one more time.

I took Little Green Notebooks advice and searched "pair" in Craigslist. It is now a favorite search of mine along with "vintage", "antique", and "bamboo".

A pair of Italianate beauties here. I want these so bad I can taste it (only $100) we could use them in our imaginary baby girl nursery, reupholster them in a subtle stripe or lipstick pink velvet? Can you dig it? Now, I know we said no birthday gifts, Nate,...but do you want to change your mind?

These end tables could be so cool painted on either side of a English roll arm sofa.

These beauties would be left untouched if they went in my home. 

I am laughing at myself for going overboard today with the blogging...I forget how much I enjoy it when I take my little hiatuses.