happy friday + a giveaway

this week has flown by. I've been guest lecturing in Husband's class, teaching his ninth graders how to set up their own blogs. we had them set up about me pages, taught them how to do labels and links, and let them go wild with customizing their own templates and designs. it's been a lot of fun, but I'm glad it's friday!

in just a little over a month, I'm heading back to the states. this seems so unreal to me. the truth is I'm anxious to be back in the land of tacos and bacon and gluten-free beer, have my kittens to snuggle with, and to escape the humidity. but I'm doing my best to soak up life in Taiwan while I have it. the next few weeks will be crazy with travels and adventures, so I don't think it will be too difficult.

[as always, you'll be able to follow along on twitter and instagram]

this weekend I still have some cleaning to do before my friend arrives, and I've been working on another washi tape wall art project to share. but before I get back to that I want to take a moment to introduce you to my featured sponsor for the month, and share an amazing giveaway!

Kirsten is the sweet Australian behind the blog Kirsten Learns, where she chronicles her adventures in learning...just about everything! I loved her post on getting to know your camera in manual mode [ so helpful for beginners] and this adorable DIY candle in a teacup. I can't wait to see what she decides to tackle next!

Hello there! I'm Kirsten and I live in Australia with my husband and two cats. I started my blog to document myself learning the things I have always wanted to learn, and just becoming a less average and more awesome person in general. I've also started to make YouTube videos which has been both a frightening and enjoyable experience!

what is your favorite trip you've ever taken? I've only recently returned from a 2 month trip to the USA & Canada, which was by far the best holiday I've ever been on. This might have something to do with the fact that I got married while I was over there! You can totally read about that on my blog oooooohh yeah shameless plug.

what are your travel plans or goals for this year? I WISH I WAS TRAVELLING. But nope. My only goals are to grow my blog, finish uni (I'm studying to be a teacher) and to learn a whole bunch of new things.

where would your dream travels take you? I want to go back to America SO BADLY! Otherwise I have always wanted to visit Iceland. Apparently they are really obsessed with elves there? Or Japan because they are opening the Wizarding World of Harry Potter there this year. Just TAKE ME EVERYWHERE PLEASE.

describe yourself in 3 words: I like cake.

read more about Kirsten on her blog: Kirsten Learns

check out a few of her favorite posts:

how to make scented soy teacup candles

learning to apply eyeshadow

or follow along with:

twitter + pinterest + instagram + youtube

AND of course I have to let you all know I'm participating in an amazing giveaway this week with some very lovely ladies. we are giving away $230 in prizes to Etsy and Amazon! you can enter using the gadget below [and if you're already following me, you have entries!] big thanks to Melyssa for hosting!

Group Giveaway with $230 in prizes to Amazon and Etsy!