I have never been good at constructing bottoms. Pretty terrible, actually. I would probably put that up with gift-wrapping as my worst skills. Not really sure how I missed this boat, but practice will always help. I just hate being bad at something and having to deal with that. Blame the narcissist in me.

These shorts are no different, BUT they aren't that bad. At least they fit Lou! I'm glad I can practice on the little guy because he couldn't care less. As long as he's dry, he's happy. The main reason these are on the blog is because I love this print.

"Camping Is In-TENTS" was one of my first summer prints this year. It was inspired by our trip to Big Bear last month (we "camped" in a cabin - hee hee!). It's the only one that still catches my eye. Maybe it's because my favorite color is green, or the sketchy artwork stands out amongst the rest of my work, but it's definitely one of my favorites. While my shorts aren't the greatest things on earth, the fabric rocks! Using Spoonflower, I ordered the cotton lawn ultra, which screams comfy. Next time, I hope to try the Minky fabric for Lou. Babies love soft, right? 

If you're ready to school me with your sewing skills, you can find the fabric here. I would love to see what you make! If not, the whole collection is available here. As always, share your projects on Instagram with the hashtag #CozyReverieStyle!

Today is Flip Flop Day! This unofficial holiday, which is celebrated every 3rd Friday of June, was actually created by the franchise, Tropical Smoothie Café (read the story here). Since flip flops are already a staple of everyone's summer wardrobe, I thought we'd have a fun DIY piñata just for today.

Keep in mind, this size is mainly for décor. They aren't very big, and not strong enough to hold a lot of candy. I would make a bunch and hang them up as garland or set them on the table as colorful place settings/party favors.

I also designed the pattern "Flip Flops & Polish" and am offering it to you as a free printable! As always, it works great on home printers, but you can take the file to a professional printer too. OMG, I can already see it as bunting for a party! Click here to download. Who loves ya, baby?

Materials Needed:
- Crepe Paper 
- Cardstock
- Construction Paper
- Tape
- Craft Glue
- Hot Glue Gun
- Scissors

Directions

1. Take a flip flop and trace the shape onto two pieces of cardstock.
2. Cut a 2 inch strip of cardstock the length of the flip shop shape edge. You may need to attach more than one strip together.
3. Tape the strip to the edge of one side of the flip flop.
4. Tape the other side of the flip flop to top of the strip.
5. Grab your crepe paper to fringe one side of each strip.
6. Beginning at the bottom of one side of your flip flop, glue strips of fringe using your school glue. Repeat until you reach the top of the flip flop. Repeat this on the side strip and the back.
7. This is the flip flop completely covered.
8. Cut two 4-inch strips of construction paper.
9. Glue two ends together.
10. Hot glue the attached ends towards the top of the flip flop. Then hot glue the ends to each side.

Voila!

Now some news in the world of awesome: Old Navy stores will be having $1 Flip Flop Day this Saturday! On June 20th, participating stores will be ready for you to gear up for the summer. Get to shoppin' and best of luck on scoring your flops!

Once downloading the free printable on this post, you agree to the terms that these digital images
are for your own personal crafts only. Files may not be re-sold in any format.

Can you believe that this month marks 10 years of Etsy? I feel like it's been around forever!

Etsy is so much more than a site for me. This place sparked my drive and encouraged my growth more than I would have ever believed. One of my dreams is being able to work on the shop full-time, and though the process is slow (and most definitely not easy), I love going through this journey. My artwork may be doing well via Spoonflower and Society 6, but nothing compares to the connection I have with my guests via Etsy. Etsy isn't just a shop for me. It's a home.

Do you ever wonder how bloggers get such a big following? I do. ALL. THE. TIME.

It's intimidating being an artist in Los Angeles. There are so many talented people here and you can't help but struggle on keeping true to who you are. I admire lifestyle bloggers, like Cupcakes and Cashmere and Lauren Conrad. Avidly follow DIY bloggers Studio DIY and The House That Lars Built. Can't get enough of artists, especially Diary Sketches.

It is actually quite amazing how bloggers find their readers. Social media is an amazing tool for artists like me. Most of the blogs I follow have a huge following on Instagram, where they interact with each other and really promote a positive environment. However, this is very different from their Facebook fan pages, where there is very little interaction for the exact same content. Why is that? I wonder if there is just something about the Facebook world that isn't as welcoming to artists as the Instagram space.

Look, I am the first to agree that art is not about how many people like your work, but I must confess, as an artist, you would like your work to be validated in some way. For some, Tumblr is their space. Others, it's Etsy. Many thrive via Twitter.  Personally, I am an avid Facebook user, but business-wise, it is a hit or miss with Cozy Reverie. For my art, Instagram has continually created a positive and welcoming environment. I have collaborated more with artists via Instagram than any other social media outlet. I can say it is my safe place.

It's officially summer vacation! No more school drop-offs, pick ups, projects, or homework until August. Is anybody else excited? I get to spend the summer with my boys!

Now, I did promise myself to chill out more than I did last summer. Camp Watkinez 2014 involved so much research and planning every minute of every day, and we just don't have time for that. My parents never planned my days like that. Kids should really have some freedom during the summer, especially now that it's much shorter than when I was a kid (my kid's break is only a month and a half).

Instead, we have created a to-do list. Some are from the list posted at A Waltz Through Disney, and we've added a few of our own.

1. Go to the movies - a lot
With Jurassic World, Inside Out, and Fantastic Four opening this summer, we've got a lot to look forward to.
2. Go to a free archery class
Roving Archers in Pasadena offers a free class for all ages once a month. We have got to try something new.
3. Go to at least one Dodger game
Because no summer is complete without a game at Dodger stadium.
4. Have a scavenger hunt
I am creating a small hunt, catering to families this summer. Be sure to follow the A Waltz Through Disney's Facebook page if you are interested in joining the fun!
5. Make the beach our second home
We live so close to so many beaches and should stop being so lazy. Plus, I can't wait to see Lou hang out in that summer breeze.
6. More Karate!
The Brodster just earned his orange belt and has asked to go four days a week, rather than the usual three.
7. Visit Walt Disney's Barn in Griffith Park
We've been talking about going for ages, so I'm determined to make it happen this year!
8. San Diego Weekend
With my sister living there, we have the perfect tour guide. She makes our visits practically effortless. As much as I love L.A., I can't wait to escape for a weekend and have a relaxing trip.
9. Read, read, read
I am determined to read at least one book this summer. I have got to get out of the habit of being online during any free time I have. Plus, the Brodster will be doing the Barnes 'n Noble Summer Reading program, so I've got to lead by example.
10. Get Froyo once a week
Because having fun is hard work and deserves a treat!

Flower Clip: Gift / Aviators: Target similar / Dress: Target (old) / Pouch: Cozy Reverie

What are your plans for the summer?