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The Friday Five: Inspiration for Your Weekend

It’s Friiiiiiiidaaaay!  Whoo hoo!  Let’s link arms and side-step across the dance floor, k?

The Friday Five: Inspiration for Your Weekend | The Thinking Closet
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On Collecting

So…I’m a bit of a collector.  Buttons.  Ticket stubs.  Pins.  Anyone else with me?

Well, just this week, my concept of collecting “links” was blasted into outer-space when I discovered the free online software known as  Evernote.  And I fully recognize that I’m unfashionably late to the Evernote party, but I may or may not have caught up on lost time by devoting countless hours this past week to “clipping notes” all over Internet-land.

Now, collections only really flourish when they’re taken out of the china cabinet and spilled out onto the rug to play with.  (My Mor Mor–a.k.a. my Mother’s Mother–was really good about that.  When my sister and I were little, she had a collection of tiny cat figurines that she always let us play with when we would come to visit.  So trusting.  Love you, Mor Mor!)

So, to usher in this celebratory weekend (yay, Dads!), I thought I’d spill five links from my collection onto the rug in hopes of giving you all some inspiration for your weekend.  How ’bout it?

The Friday Five

1.  Does this quote apply to you?

“Introverts, in contrast, may have strong social skills and enjoy parties and business meetings, but after a while wish they were home in their pajamas. They prefer to devote their social energies to close friends, colleagues, and family. They listen more than they talk, think before they speak, and often feel as if they express themselves better in writing than in conversation. They tend to dislike conflict. Many have a horror of small talk, but enjoy deep discussions.”

Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can’t Stop Talking by Susan Cain

Because when I read it on Instagram, I wanted to shout, “Yes!  Yes!  That’s me!”  And I immediately did some Google searching, which led me to Susan Cain’s TED Talk entitled “The Power of Introverts.”  If you’re an introvert, prepare to feel empowered.  If you know or love an introvert, prepare to better know or love them.

2.  Sew Your Own Tank Dress.  Here’s a really cute beginner sewing project that I am swooning over.  I have the tank, I have the dress fabric, I’ve just been holding out for the tank dress tutorial to bring it all together…and I think I may have found it at the blog, Sew Caroline.  From the cute ruffles on the shirt to the big bow at the waist and detailed photo tutorial, I’m in love.  Whad’ya think?  Click here to check out the tute.

The Friday Five: Inspiration for Your Weekend at The Thinking Closet
DIY Tank Dress | Sew Caroline

3.  Tax Deductions for Bloggers.  So, thanks to really fun-to-look-at infographic by Kimberly Grabinski that I pinned on Pinterest, I learned that there is quite a long list of things bloggers can deduct from their taxes.  Like business cards…hosting and domain fees…conference fees and out of town meals and accommodations…and more!  Regardless of whether or not you make money as a blogger, I think it’s great information to store away for the future.  Who doesn’t like to save some moolah?  Click here to check it out at the original source on What’s That Smell.

4.  The Akinator.  Okay, this one is just pure fun.  Think of a fictional character…got it?  Now, the genie named Akinator with ask you 20 questions or less, and within that time, guess the fictional character you’re thinking of.  Sounds like a hoax, I know.  But he guessed correctly 3 out 4 times I played, and I only stumped him on try 4 when I thought of Pecola Breedlove from Toni Morrison’s novel, The Bluest Eye.  I think he guessed Katniss in 6 questions flat.  Try him!

The Friday Five: Inspiration for Your Weekend at The Thinking Closet

5.  16 DIY Baby Shower Gift Ideas.  This last one is from meeeeeee!  (Does that count?)  I have the honor of guest posting today over at my girl Camila’s blog, Titi Crafty.  And if your spring has been anything like mine, it means that your girlfriends all got together and plotted to all have babies at the same time…so you’ve had to scramble to come up with some baby shower gifts.  Well, scramble no more.  I’ve pulled together a round-up of 16 DIY Baby Shower Gifts Ideas; some are projects that I’ve made myself and others are ones I’ve collected from blogland.  I’d love for you to stop by, check it out, and say hello to Camila!  She’s one of the most open-hearted bloggers I’ve come to know…and she cannot wait to meet you.

16 DIY Baby Shower Gift Ideas | The Thinking Closet

Welp, I’m off to whip up a Spring Breeze cheesecake for our dinner party tonight.  (It seriously is a “breeze.”  Shout-out to Justin and Addie for introducing me to this easy, breezy, and oh-so-yummy recipe!)

I hope y’all have a wonderful Father’s Day weekend.  In the words of Tigger, “T.T.F.N.  Ta ta for now!”

{Linking up here.}

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36 Comments

  1. I love the Friday Five idea! This afternoon I watched the TED talk while eating my lunch. This video, and the other introvert post I shared on my blog recently has spurred a lot of thoughts in my brain…even the thought of writing a book (or article) on being Christian and an introvert! Also, Akinator is too fun…he finally got it, but I really stumped him for a while with Smoky The Bear.

    1. Yes, yes, yes! I’d LOVE to read a book (or article) by Lisbeth on being a Christian and an introvert! I could certainly offer up a few quotes from my own experience if needed…or support you with yummy treats and tea to power you through those late-night writing sessions…whatever it takes! This has gotta happen! (Can you tell I’m excited?)

  2. My dearest Lauren,
    I thought you were taking a blogging break, but apparently my computer has been stuck on your May 20th post every time I’ve checked. So when I saw a new post of yours on Pinterest, I jumped for joy and followed the link. I still don’t know why I can’t see any of your other posts in chronological order when I arrive on your website (I’ve been trying to catch up by clicking on the picture links at the bottom of your posts), but hopefully I will be able to figure it out ASAP. I’ve missed you bunches!
    -Robyn

    1. Oh my! Thanks for letting me know about this glitch! And for being so persistent to try to solve the problem! Ya know, a while back, I noticed a similar problem when viewing my blog on Mark’s computer. It took a few times of clicking refresh before it updated correctly. I appreciate you going to such lengths to try to see my new posts. Could you do me a favor and try clearing your browser’s cache and cookies to see if that fixes the problem? If that doesn’t work, I may have to call my web host to see what they recommend…. Grrrrr…techie problems stress me out. Hopefully this gets squared away sooner than later. I’ve missed you, too, Robyn!

    1. Well, if you do entrust your dress to me, you can expect that I will make us matching dresses to wear at Haven. How epic would THAT be!?

  3. As usual, Lauren, such a fun post. I have a collection of points to make as well.
    1.I love to link arms and side step! The kids and I were just doing that yesterday in the backyard. When we meet some day, that may need to be our first activity.
    2. I am super behind the times for I have never even heard of Evernote until this inspiring post.
    3. Love the story about your Mor Mor and the cats. Your point is exactly why I let my kids occasionally eat in the dining room on the nice china and crystal while wearing fancy clothes. It’s only stuff after all, but memories are lasting.
    4. That quote made me wish I was an introvert (perhaps some of those around me are wishing the same thing!) & I agree it fits you perfectly!.
    5. I pinned the same tank dress tutorial! So cute! Can’t wait to see yours. If I recall correctly…is it a gray tank waiting to be transformed?
    6. The Akinator is definitely interesting. We were playing it at work one day and we couldn’t stump him. Hmmmm.
    7. Can’t wait to see your round up of baby ideas. I will go stop by even though I am no longer making babies, their stuff is still so fun! And I agree, I went through a season when it seemed all of my friends (including me) plotted to have babies at the same time. Makes for a lot of parties!
    8. I will now end the longest blog comment ever with a thank you for a fun and inspiring post. You know how I do love random compilations. Hope your breezy cheesecake was yum and Happy Weekend!

    1. Who loves lists? I love lists!

      1. Okay, linking arms and side-stepping is first on the list…after a hug…and before crafting. Deal? Deal!
      2. You have an excuse to be “behind the times.” You’re busy hand-drawing TMNT characters for your son’s epic birthday party…and that, my friend, trumps being up on the latest digital organizing craze. Who says so? I sayz so!
      3. Who wishes she could be your kid for a day? This girl!
      4. Ha ha. I agree that the quote paints introverts in a rosier light than perhaps we deserve. And I’ll have you know that I like you “just the way you are.” Wait isn’t that a song? Ah, William Joel…you weave your way into my subconscious yet again!
      5. Pin buddies! And why is your memory so stinkin’ awesome? (You’re spot on! Gray tank indeed! Jessica for the memory win!)
      6. I love that you’ve encountered the Akinator before! He knows no bounds! (But why is he named the Akinator and not the ASKinator? This irks me!)
      7. Thanks for checking out my post, friend! And for this longest-blog-comment-ever. It made my day on Sunday, and it’s making it again today. ToDAY? I suppose it’s now night!

      (Psst. Did you notice what I did in this response? Ended every section with a question and an answer…and wouldn’t you know, I did it again! Mwah ha ha!)

      Happy {almost} weekend to you!

      Your silly friend,
      Lauren

  4. Well, I have to say I watched the whole video, and I SO appreciate it! I wonder how many bloggers are introverts? I was surprised to read that you consider yourself an introvert, but you cleared it up in your comment before mine…you’re an outgoing introvert. I’m very much an introvert (would you believe I used to teach, too? I thought I was probably the only introverted teacher!) and I love my alone time, but the rest of my family tends to be extroverts. Because of that, I’m completely outnumbered and sometimes made to feel like I don’t measure up. Not on purpose, of course, but like Susan said, it’s what we’re taught in society. Anyway, I loved the video and could totally relate. Loved the other links too, especially the Akinator. I was shocked when he came up with James Fraser! (Outlander Series). Have a wonderful Sunday!

    Debbie

    1. I didn’t know you were a teacher, Debbie! (Though it makes perfect sense…your tutorials are so easy to follow and thorough, anyone would feel empowered to take them on. Of COURSE you’re a teacher!) I’m so curious…what did you teach?

      I’m glad to hear that Susan Cain’s video resonated with you. I grew up in a family of introverts…and married an extrovert! So, Mark and I have had to really negotiate our people time (which REALLY fuels him) and our alone time (which REALLY fuels me). It helps that I’m working part-time now and can soak up alone time while he’s at work…hence, the time to blog! But I imagine as a Mama in a house of extroverts, that could get tough at times. Maybe your family can all watch this video, too, to learn more about you…and know what to give you for Christmas this year: alone time! 😉

  5. Introverts unite! I love it. Both my husband and I are introverts and totally get it… It seems most people are and just don’t know it! Glad you are sharing all of your awesome finds because they are, indeed, awesome.

    Oh and I loved the feature on Titi Crafty!!!

    1. That’s interesting what you wrote: “It seems most people are {introverts} and just don’t know it!” I think you’re right; I also think a lot of people assume that being an introvert means that you’re shy and that being an extrovert means you’re outgoing. I can be a very outgoing person in certain contexts, so many people raise their eyebrows at me when I tell them I’m an introvert. I have to clarify, “I’m an outgoing introvert. I enjoy parties and get-togethers with friends, but I’m most charged by my alone time.”

      I think what I really appreciated about Susan’s TED Talk was that she celebrated the positives of introverts. Oftentimes, it feels like a negative think to admit you’re an introvert…when actually, it’s an AWESOME thing! (As you and your hubby can attest.)

      And thanks for checking out my guest post on Titi Crafty! You’re the best, Thalita!

  6. Mind. Blown. The Akinator just guessed Beca from Pitch Perfect in 12 questions. That is amazing. That site could be dangerous for me if I get really determined to stump him, lol! Thanks for all of the fun links! Have a great weekend!

    ~Abby =)

    1. Ha ha! Happy to hear that the Akinator didn’t disappoint with his knowledge of fictional characters. He really knows his stuff! Hope your weekend if fabulous, too, my friend.

  7. I agree…amazing post! Loved the TED talk on introverts! I’m right in the middle myself between extrovert and introvert.

    Happy Flag Day and Father’s Day, too!! Can’t wait for your dad to read your post about his I prefer my puns intended shirt!! 🙂

    1. I don’t think I knew that about you, Mom! That you right in the middle of an extrovert and introvert. I would have thought that you, Dad, Lisbeth, and I are all introverts (thinking back to all of the beach days we’ve shared reading books or journaling side by side). Hmmm…we’ll have to chat more about this when I see you next month (on the beach!).

      Yes, I, too am anxious for Dad to open his gift. I suppose the downside of having created his gift early is that I have to wait for what feels like an eternity for him to actually receive it! Lol. 🙂 Happy Father’s Day and Flag Day, to you, too!

      1. I lean toward being an introvert and Dad leans toward extrovert! We’ll discuss more on the beach before or after our alone time reading books! 🙂
        Check out your dad’s comment on your post about your adorable gift to him–the vinyl lettered t-shirt!
        Enjoy your days with the Lankers! xxoo

    1. Lol. I’m amazed by him, too, Esther. How does he do it? I guess genies have the whole magic thing going on for them, so I’ll chalk it up to that! 😉

    1. For sure, Kim! Thanks so much for creating it in the first place. I’m a visual learner and seeing it all spelled out in your very easy-to-read infographic was oh so helpful to me…and I’m sure to so many others!

  8. What a great collection! I have ‘Quiet’ on my to-read list, and with a new grandbaby coming after the first of next year I’m all about baby showers and everything that goes with the new little bundles!
    I’m a collector too and I thank you for sharing with us today!
    Now off to click and find and be inspired 🙂 Enjoy the cheesecake!

    1. Thanks for the kind and ever-encouraging words, Linda! I’m glad to know that so many of these shares resonated with you, a fellow collector-friend. And oh yes, we did rather enjoy that cheesecake…so much so that four of us cleaned it all up, no problem! 🙂

      I hope you have a wonderful Father’s Day weekend with your family.

  9. That’s me too! When my husband and I were getting married, we had to take personality tests as part of our marriage counseling. I came up as 50% extrovert and 50% introvert, and at that point in my life I really thought I was more extroverted, but that quote makes me thing 100% otherwise. Except, I actually think I express myself best when I talk… to myself! Have a great weekend Lauren! <3

    1. That’s super interesting, Laura! And I think your story furthers the point that no one is just an introvert or just an extrovert; humans are much too complex to be lumped into one of two categories. And I’ve definitely gone through seasons of life where I’ve been more of an extrovert and more of an introvert (perhaps by necessity because of my environment; i.e. college, surrounded by people ALL the time). Lol.

      And I talk to myself, too…especially when I’m shopping! “Hmmm…if only you were half a size larger, then we’d be best friends.” I’m sure I sound quite odd to everyone else in the changing room. 🙂

  10. Oh, the quote is so perfect! I want to shout the same like you!
    I definitely have to listen to the TED talk one (or more) times again to get it all completely… It’s wonderful!

    Love, Midsommarflicka

    1. Glad to hear that you enjoyed Susan’s quote and TED talk! Did you know that the majority of teachers are introverts? Which is interesting, considering they often have to get up in front of people all day, which can be really draining on introverts. But oftentimes, the passion to teach others overcomes the desire for alone time. At least, that has been my experience!

  11. What a great post! So much for me to get lost in. That TED talk was amazing! I can totally relate to her. Thanks for sharing. And that genie was fun. He guessed Edward Cullen in no time flat but I stumped him on Mr. Darcy 😉 Have a great weekend, my sweet friend 🙂

    1. The nerve! How dare the Akinator not know Mr. Darcy! (Pride & Prejudice is one of my favorite books of all time, so of course, I’m offended.) 🙂 Glad to hear you had a great b-day, and I hope the celebrating continues for you AND your hubby this weekend.

  12. I am telling you, we are long-lost soulmates:
    – I still say TTFN, and then forget that no one know what it means.
    – Evernote is my lifeline; I’ve been on it for a while now, but have only recently discovered all the amazing features like tagging your notes!
    – I collect way too many things: stamps, ticket stubs, postcards, magazine cutouts of David Beckham, pins… the list goes on!
    So you see? Totally meant to meet (even if “only” virtually)!
    Hope you have an incredible weekend!! 🙂

    1. Soulmates indeed!

      -We need to bring back TTFN as a rockin’ signing off phrase. Tigger was onto something all those years ago.
      -Yes, I’ve been going TAG crazy! I also found out you can clip “audio.” So yeah…Evernote is pretty much the best app. ever.
      -Yay for stamp collections! My stamp collection grew so large at one point, it almost became overwhelming to ever imagine organizing them all, so I gave it up cold turkey. But I still have the collection in several books and boxes in NY and even used some of them to make little flags to decorate our wedding cupcakes with. You’d love them! I’m actually going to do a series on our DIY wedding in a few weeks (hopefully), so you’ll get to see pics of them there.

      Have a fantastic weekend, yourself, Johanna! Cheers!

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