I'm No Expert...

I'm going nuts....and bolts!

2010-12-17T20:35:00.000-08:00

As I mentioned in my last post, I "volunteered" to decorate a mini-tree for the Festival of Trees this year. I was sort of sad to not be involved as much as I have been the past three years, so I was a teensy bit excited when I was asked to help---even if it was only in a very small way. It benefits such a good cause and it's fun to be creative. What a perfect combination!

My theme was "Hardware Holiday" . Everything on the tree (with exception to the lights and the styrofoam balls) were purchased at my local ACE hardware store. In addition, I found an antique metal tool box at a cute ETSY shop that I used to display the tree in.

I would have done some things differently (as usual) and I wish the little wire mesh "snowflakes" that I made were more visible, but all in all, I was pleased with the result. Here are some pictures:

Up Close of the glittered wrenches, nail ornaments, wire mesh snowflakes and washer/copper wire garland:

Making the nail ornaments:

(AKA the "glitter storm")

Finished Product:

In addition to the tree, I made a small number of baked goods for the bake sale portion of the Festival.

Mint-Chocolate Whoopie Pies:

Self Explanatory.... :)

It was super fun and always an honor to help out. It was a fantastic "kick-off" for my Holiday Season. Truly, the most wonderful time of the year!! Busy, but wonderful! ;)

Forgotten Things

2010-11-10T07:48:00.000-08:00

If you blog, you probably think about things to blog about all the time. At least I do! My biggest problems are twofold. 1) I forgot to write these moments down and 2) even if I do write them down, by the time I get around to blogging about it, the moment has passed and become irrelevant and/or out of date so I feel silly even bringing it up. It really drive me insane. But, unfortunately, blogging is wayyyy down low on the list---even though I really want to document these things, if for no one else, for myself! SO I need to make myself do it, even if I am months behind. Speaking of which, check the other blog soon for pumpkin patch and Halloween with the girlies!

On that note, I will briefly discuss a few things I have been up to lately.

A couple months ago, JaNae, the cute sister of the equally cute girl from this post , asked me to do her hair and make-up for her wedding. I was totally honored! She even let me make her a hair comb using the same fabric as her dress. It was really fun to do, even if I was feeling deathly ill and had to wear a surgical mask the whole time. Totally embarrassing, but I didn't want to get the bride sick for her honeymoon! That would be so terrible!! But forever and ever I will be "the weird make-up and hair girl in the mask" in her wedding pictures, no matter how much I protested and tried to move out of the camera's view. As if I had SARS or something.
LEGEN----wait for it-------------------DARY.

Avery modeling the flower comb. I used left over fabric from JaNae's dress to make the flowers.

Basic instructions: cut various sized circles, gently heat over flame to 'curl' edges, sew together, add bling in the center and glitter to the edges then glue to comb. Easy Peasy.

Hair done, make-up almost done. I don't know why I didn't take a final pic with her in the dress. I blame the "Utah Flu" discussed in this post.

(I stole this from Facebook) :)

Then, in October, I threw my first "grown up" party. I know that sounds sad, but it's true. I was 12 the last time I had one. I mean, I've had dinner parties or football viewing parties, that sort of thing. But I'm talking the kind where you send out invitations and have take-home favors, etc. etc. The works, grown-up style. This shindig was for the teachers and other volunteers in the children's Sunday School at my church (called Primary). I couldn't have done it without the help of four special ladies, my mom included--who happened to be visiting that week! It was our way of thanking them for the hard work and time they put in to caring for and teaching the children. I'm sure it's a relatively thankless job. We wanted them to know they are loved and valued!!

We did it the Wednesday before Halloween and OF COURSE I had to throw it SPOOKY style! :) I didn't want it to be "typical" Halloween orange and black with pumpkins and candy corn so I kept a more sophisticated color scheme of black and white with metallic accents of gold and silver. I ran out of time to really decorate as thoroughly as I wanted. Oh well. You can only do so much. And I think we all had a great time and that's what matters after all! Sadly, I didn't have the time to take nice pictures of it all set up, but I did get some bad cell phone pictures halfway through the party. I apologize for the poor quality. Usually my cell takes better pictures than this, but it's been giving me troubles lately. Oh well.

The Invites:

::The Menu::

-Black Corn Chips and Ghoulosh-
(chips and guacamole)

-Spooky Salad with Rotten Dressing-
(Romaine with orange sweet peppers, goat cheese and black colored vinaigrette)
btw this turned every one's teeth greenish purple for a bit.... :/ oops. Happy Halloween! lol) -Garlic Bones-
(bone shaped breadsticks--total experiment that actually worked out!!)

-Frog Eye Salad-
(Acini de Pepe pasta salad with fruit tossed in cool whip and dry pudding mix)

-Black Bean Croak-ettes-
(Vegetarian meatballs using black beans; breaded and baked) Menu Items Not Pictured:

-Monster Claws-
(breaded and baked chicken strips with triangle shaped peppers for claws)
-Slime Ricky's-
{flanked by two small cauldrons of dry ice...that fizzled way too quickly}
(sprite with grape juice and a hint of lime juice with frozen peeled grapes floating like eyeballs)

The sad, pathetic tables.
There were supposed to be candles and metallic garlands woven throughout.
*sighs* I spray painted these big gorgeous pumpkins with chrome spraypaint and rubbed on some gold colored Rub'n Buff on the stem and in some of the pumpkin creases. People didn't think they were real!

The Guests of Honor:

::Desserts and Favors::

-Brownie Ghost Pops-

(brownie balls dipped in white chocolate; black sparkle gel for faces) -Witches Hats-

(Chocolate painted ice cream cones filled with chocolate cake and chocolate mousse atop a homemade chocolate wafer cookie)

-Vampire Bite Cookies-
(pumpkin cookies with brown butter frosting and red frosting 'bites')

They were given these adorable little cellophane goodie bags they could load up with whatever they wanted to take home.

Aren't they cute?? It was a fun evening. I hope we can do it a couple of times a year!

Then, my friend Stephanie was looking for a new hair-do and, like me, has issues with forking over the $$$ to get her hair done professionally. I mean, I know that it takes years of practice to be a great hairstylist and some of them ARE worth the money. But I NEVER get out of a salon under $100. EVER. Granted, I have a ton of long, thick hair, so I get charged more. (Which is another rip off for another day....). Anyhoo---long story short I offered to trim her hair and throw in some color....with the caveat that I'm so NOT a professional and that the outcome could be less than desirable. She was brave and accepted! :) We shopped for color and I gave her a trim with some layers and some new bangs.

While I snipped, we watched one of my all-time favorite movies, 'Mickey Blue Eyes'.

If you have not seen it, I highly recommend it. It's silly and goofy and I find Hugh Grant absolutely hilarious. His understated, witty and satirical humor is right up my alley. Go watch it. It was Steph's first time seeing it and I *think* she liked it...?

Anyway, her hair turned out really cute. We did baliage style streaks of a darker raspberry color. It was subtle on her dark brown hair, but added some dimension and shine. I really liked it. And I'm pretty sure she does too. That makes me smile! :D

:Future Projects:

I recently bought a rug for my front entry (finally!!! before the rain comes!). I am going to get my dresser painted and set up so I can finally get that crud organized. I really need a good place for my purses. Oh yeah, and the mail.....

I also ordered my fabric to make the valances for the windows in the dining room and playroom (that I started a year ago...).

Slowly but surely, the house is all coming together. :)

And in a week or so it will all be taken apart again to decorate for Christmas.

It never ends, does it?? But I am looking forward to it. Now I just have to see how I can change it up from last year. Hmm...still thinking....

And last, but not least, I got roped into doing a little two foot tree for the Festival of Trees this year. I mean 'roped' in the nicest way possible. :) They are desperate for trees this year and I couldn't say no when she asked. It's a fun outlet for me, so it's all good. Check back for updates on that! I better start that this week!! :/ I'm thinking nuts and bolts and screws and nails......maybe... :) I am also baking something for their cake-walk. Not sure what yet, but something tasty and festive! :)

That's it for now!

::FALL-ing for you::

2010-10-06T15:46:00.000-07:00

Truly my favorite time of year. Back to school (well, the shopping for a new wardrobe part), the perfect weather, the cozy warm color palate and---- the holidays!! I love Halloween---I would totally have a spooky haunted house for the Trick-or-Treaters every year if I could. When I became 'too old' to go door-to-door asking for candy, I always stayed at home, making the house look spooky and I loooooved scaring the little monsters. :) Except when my 'dead prom queen' costume/act made a little girl cry. That was pretty bad.... :\

Then, of course, Fall brings us Thanksgiving. Who doesn't love Thanksgiving, really? I am salivating thinking of the roasted turkey and stuffing. Great. Now I'm going to have to make a turkey for Sunday dinner..... :)

So, in honor of this lovely time of year, I have finally put up a little bit of Autumnal decor. Minimal. And it's nothing fancy-schmancy. But it's amazing how much better the house looks with a few splashes of 'Fall'. Here ya go. Enjoy! Some day I will fix all the nasty cords.....*sighs*

So it's almost October...

2010-09-22T16:27:00.000-07:00

My last post was about the 4th of July.

Sad.

I just haven't been in a blogging mood. I've taken pictures of fun meals, projects and all sorts of good blog-able things....but just haven't been able to bring myself to do it.

Life's been crazy and thrown me some curve balls....way unexpected curve balls.

I am just so overwhelmed with "tasks". The everyday variety as well as the 'extras'....like just completing the dang decor in ONE stinking room. Ugh. It's so......insurmountable it seems.

It's officially "Fall" now and my front doors are BEGGING for new wreaths. To be honest with you, I'm just not that into 'wreaths'. But I can't seem be creative enough to come up with another alternative! Grr. Plus, I'm limited to using the resources I already have. That can sort of be, well, limiting. I have boxes {yes, plural} of Fall decor. It's my favorite season and I love decorating for it because I love the warm colors, the smells, the weather is just perfect and---let's be honest---Fall decor can stay up from September-November. That = less work for moi. I just HATE to get it all down, put it out, rearrange it a thousand times to get it right and then, before you can blink, it's time to take it all down, pack it up and then begin the horrendous process of the 'Christmas Season'. It's just all too daunting right now. I can't justify it when I have things like piles of laundry waiting to be hung on hangers and put in my too-full closet.

But I truly love to look at it all nice and beautiful. I just wish I could snap and it would be done. Or maybe snap and the house would be all neat and perfect so I can enjoy decorating for the seasons. Yeah, I like that idea lots.

*sighs*

I apologize for the negativity that is this post. Just feeling really overwhelmed and I guess out of sorts.

And I'm practicing avoidance by blogging and watching Pollyanna while eating peanut M&M's. Yay me.

As soon as I can get my act together to actually complete a project, I will post. I swear. ;)

Happy Birf-Day 'Merica!

2010-07-05T12:56:00.000-07:00

So, of COURSE we had to have cake for America's birthday!

After all, what's a birthday without cake??

Sad. That's what.

Here's one of my daughters, Ashleigh, blowing out the candles:

(four for "The 4th of July")

All red-white-and-blue starry-ness.

(taken the next day so it had bled a little...)

Here's the inside.

What does it look like??

A FLAG!!
(honestly, I can't believe it worked...especially since I had to improvise)
Yummy in our tummies.

I'm sure everyone and their dog made this cake after seeing it here on this cute blog.

I was tired of the strawberries and blueberries flag cake but I still wanted to make something festive so when I saw this one, I knew I had to try it.

It took a good 3 hours from start to finish (I didn't freeze it overnight, but that would have helped with the frosting part).
I also didn't have the round cookie cutters or an extra bottle of blue food coloring gel, so I made a tube out of waxed paper and used about 20-30 drops of liquid food dye. As you can see, it worked out alright.
Instead of doing circles on the outside (which I think is adorable!!) I used a star cookie cutter. It was a challenge to get the dye on the edges, but it did the trick. Next time I will do more stars because there are a lot of 'voids', but we were in a hurry and wanted our CAKE! :)
Instead of cream cheese frosting, I did a basic buttercream. Also, I used too much frosting in-between the layers (trying to remedy my bad batter leveling skills) so I wasn't left with much to play with out the outside. Oh well, you live and learn. It tasted great, anyway!!

I hope you try it next year! Thanks for the inspiration!

Stars and Stripes FOREVER!

GUESS? Sale

2010-06-30T22:29:00.000-07:00

Just thought I'd pass along the current GUESS? sale info. Extra 50% off sale items and free shipping on $100 orders with code freeship100.

I'm just a GUESS? window shopper because of a few reasons, some of which are: their stuff is a bit pricey, I can't really fit into any of their pants comfortably (hello? have you seen their models??) and most of it would have to be altered in some way to make them wearable for me. And that's just a lot of work. But I decided to window shop for a minute and fill up my shopping cart for fun. Look at what I found:

The BLAKE jumpsuit. 100% silk and originally $118. On SALE for $50!

The BEAUTIFI Heel.

Fabulous Pewter Leather with Wood Platform and Stud details.
Regularly $99. On SALE for $32!

If you are looking for jewelry, there is a bunch of different styles on sale as well. I found several necklaces for around $11! That's really inexpensive for unique and cool fashion jewelry.

Just add your items to the cart to see the final discounted price. Happy shopping!

I'm Sick

2010-06-15T10:14:00.000-07:00

There is no other way to describe it....I have a sickness.

I have..............

a shoe addiction.

There. It's out there.

I don't think I could ever have too many shoes. And I realize that is a sickness. Sadly, it's one I don't really want to recover from. And I think that may be the worst part. :/

When I saw both of the following shoes, I literally had a visceral and audible reaction:

Out-loud gasp.
Fan-FLIPPING-tastic right??? And these are just a small, small, smaaaaallllll sample of the many different styles and shoes I.......I guess the correct term is "web-stalk"?
I'm coining the phrase now, FYI. ;)

Now, that doesn't mean I buy these shoes. It just means I drool over them and fantasize about wearing them and putting together imaginary outfits with them (occasionally checking to see if my size is still in stock.....just in case I win the lottery. OCD, I know.) These shoes are actually pretty inexpensive on the 'expensive shoe scale'. All well under $200. But my acceptable shoe price is under $50. Preferably under $20. Sadly, it's difficult to fall in love with shoes that are under $20. It happens, but it's rare. Take a look at these Tar-jay beauties:

I'm not falling over dead, but not bad, right?? They remind me a little of ballroom dance shoes, but with a little platform and some of the ruffle trend that is just humongous right now. I think they are SUPER cute and would look good on anyone's feet. The best part?? They are only $19.99! I'm not going to buy them, but any of you are welcome to go out at getcha some.

BUT, for now, I will just settle for window lusting-er-I mean--shopping. And I'll enjoy it.
*sigh*

Entryway Project #1 -Light Fixture- (and entry prep!)

2010-06-10T12:37:00.000-07:00

Our front entryway is not very big. Not tiny, but not huge. The ceiling is pretty low so that makes it feel smaller. Before we remodeled, the doors were dark brown with that amber colored textured glass that was popular in the 60's and 70's. Like this: The walls were covered in a country blue and mauve floral patterned wallpaper (that was applied DIRECTLY to the sheet rock...) and the floors were done in a sort of terracotta colored tile that was pretty badly cracked:
Prep work:

We started the project by trying to strip the wallpaper. I tried scoring, steaming, natural AND chemical strippers to no avail. In the process, I tore good portions of the drywall paper completely off. We realized this wallpaper was NOT coming off and moved on to plan b. After MUCH research, we decided to texture OVER the wallpaper (which continued all the way down the hallway, btw) and then we'd get to paint. I know that sounds crazy and exactly opposite of what all the "experts" tell you, but it was our only (well, cheapest) option. Albeit, time consuming. So we used tons of drywall compound to level out the part of the wall where the drywall had torn off to the rest of the wall, applied it over every seam, then sanded and reapplied...then sanded and reapplied again. My dad was a huge help with the process. Once all seams were covered well, not visible at all and the walls felt smooth, we primed the entire surface with an oil based primer to "seal" the paper and prevent it from lifting. We had some friends help with this part. (Sorry about the splattered arms for a few days. I hate oil based paint for the poor clean-up factor.) Then we rented a hopper gun and had another friend come spray the texture on the walls. (For those of you wondering why we didn't just do a smooth surface coat---thinking it would save us time and money, not to mention be a bit more modern---parts of the house, including the ceiling and a section of wall in the living room-soon-to-become playroom that ran into what was previously wallpapered, already had the orange peel texture. you follow that?? lol) We smoothed out the compound and made it match the previously textured surfaces as best we could. Primed again with a water based primer to 'seal' the texture AND THEN we were able to paint. We also sanded (and sanded...and SANDED) the front door and painted it a creamy white color and replaced the amber colored glass with a plain opaque glass. We replaced the tile with a dark hickory wide plank laminate wood floor (all the way down the hallway and into the master bedroom, as well as in the dining room, kitchen and family rooms.) Bad photo, but much improved:

Now for the first of many "projects" to complete this area:
-Light Fixture-

The light fixture that was up before, was a dated brass and glass thing, and I felt, was too tiny for the space, even though the space isn't very large. (see above photo. tiny!!)

I want the entry way to have a more glamorous and 'grand' feel to it. I want it to be welcoming and set the tone for the rest of the house. Since the ceiling is low, I knew I couldn't do a chandelier. Nothing says "welcome!" like a light fixture to the noggin, right? Yeah, not so much. But all of the "flush mount" fixtures I found were dated, too expensive, or too flashy. But mostly they were just UGLY. My budget is super small. I can't even tell you how small. But free would be reeeeaaaallly close. :) So I brainstormed. I had (what I thought was) a brilliant idea. I would use the existing fixture part, but remove the dated glass cover and replace it with the IKEA stockholm bowl for $29:However, the dimensions were a little off and after thinking it over (for nearly a year and one price drop later!!) I decided it was cool, but not for me. That, and there wasn't an opening in the dead center of the bowl and I thought it would be too thick for my puny drill to try and put a new hole through. Anyways, instead of wasting the money to buy it and have it not work, I had to come up with another solution because that money could be used elsewhere. So, I stuck with the same general idea and was on the lookout for more bowls! You know the kind----everyone and their dog has a version of one holding those decorative organic-covered sphere things (moss, boxwood leaves, pine cones, bark covered and etc.etc.) but they were always too expensive or not quite the right look; i.e. too rustic or too deep or shallow to fit my existing fixture, etc. I found one at Joanns (using a 50% off coupon AND the extra 20% off total purchase coupon that runs once in a blue moon) that was interesting. I could imagine spray painting it another color and dangling a few crystals from it to make a modern, but close to the ceiling chandelier. So I bought it and brought it home. I gave it a quick test run and I got it up there and fastened it with the little nut thing (descriptive, I know), it was really, really wobbly. So I put up a brass 'filler' piece from one of the other chandeliers I dismantled to make it more stable. But then it looked just like those ugly flush mount fixtures you see everywhere. I can't help but think they look like a certain female body part. Sorry, to be crass, but it's true. (I'm sure I don't need to tell you which one.) Not to mention the bowl wasn't directly flush to the ceiling and it just looked funny. I didn't take a pic of when it was up, but this is the general idea. It was worse attached to the light:

I lived with my $7 bowl light for a few weeks until I could come up with another solution. I decided that hand-making something would be my only option. I have several lampshades that were either given to me or the standard triangle shaped ones I'm trying to phase out in favor of modern round or square shaped ones. It took lots of trial and error, but after dismantling a couple and using the parts I came up with a frame for my new drum-shade! This was quite a mess:

I used scraps of foam core board for the supports (yes, that I saved....) and covered them with braids of a silver organza and silver gossamer combo, and then wrapped the frame with ivory colored tulle. (It's far enough away from the light source that fire isn't a concern). Originally, I wanted to do the braids all the way around the fixture for the shade part, but after doing just four, I realized that I wouldn't have enough scraps of fabric to do it. :( :( Plan b: I found the tulle and figure it would be light and airy and so I went with it. I would have done several layers more of tulle, but I ran out of that too!! Grr. Again, my spontaneous plans had been foiled. I would just have to 'Make it work!'

Then I carefully suspended the smaller ring in the center, and using a needle and metallic gold thread, attached the ring to the rest of the shade. It took two tries and FOR-EV-ERRRRRR to get it all done and centered. (Try 7+ hours!!) I then wrapped a few strands of a silver metallic ribbon in the center for extra effect. Not completely sold on it, but Tony really liked that part. I finished it off with a warm gold satin ribbon trim and I hung a few small crystals from the bottom and VOILA!

One flush-mount drum shade that cost me NOTHING extra. Not a dime! I made it all from materials that I already had around the house. Granted, I keep a lot of crap. It took me two days to complete (of course that's including stopping a million times to help the girls with one of a thousand pressing matters...like eating. Rude, right?) :)

I'm sorry this post is so long. I need an editor. Any offers??? Thanks for sticking around, anyway.

Also, I wouldn't mind if you left a comment/criticism. You can do so anonymously on this post, if you'd prefer. I would appreciate it greatly.

Spring Wreaths

2010-05-28T22:08:00.000-07:00

I need a new post here, so I will just throw up some pictures of the front door wreaths I did for Spring ((since it's almost Summer now.......))

I've decided it's kind of a lot of pressure to have double doors because you have to attempt to double the fabulous-ness. And when I'm short on time and funds, unique doesn't usually fit into the equation. I will say that these are the second versions I did because the first looked like bad 80's funeral wreaths. Not that these are much better, but believe me, if you would have seen them before.....{shudders}. No one should have to see such hideousness. I'm embarrassed that I had one on a door for a two day trial. Ugh.

SO here they are:

OK---You are all in for a treat! I found a picture of the original version. I can't believe I'm even sharing it. Seriously, I'm nearly convulsing at the thought of anyone looking at it. Uck. Uck. Uck. But here you go. I have no shame..... :)

This is what happens when you just throw stuff on all willy-nilly. HAVE A PLAN, PEOPLE!!
It's like 80's floral puke on my front door.
I'm glad I took the time to re-do....LOL

YOU'RE WELCOME :)

She Got Her Hair Did and Her Face On

2010-04-25T12:01:00.000-07:00

A good friend asked me if I would do her hair and make-up for her Prom yesterday in exchange for babysitting the girls and I was so honored to do it. Heck, I'd eat dirt for free babysitting! haha! (just kidding....mostly...)

It's been a while since I've done make-up or hair for an event and I've missed it! Thanks for the opportunity, J!

This girl couldn't be more beautiful if she tried. Seriously. Here are some photos:

I feel bad I didn't touch up her bangs after messing with them while doing her eyes. But I see she fixed my mistake after she got dressed. Phew! (sorry so close, but I wanted to show the make-up!) :)

Look at her and her cute date!

Hope you liked your hair and make up and that you both had a great time!

Randomness and Stuff 'Bout Me

2010-04-09T00:13:00.000-07:00

I don't know why I feel the need to spurt insignificant facts and nuggets about myself and the truly random thoughts that I have. I guess I want to let everyone know just how big of a dork I really am (and secretly hoping you are a dork just like me!)

The following will probably be long and boring. I won't be offended if you stop reading here.......

1. American Idol. Don't love anyone this year. And I'm a little depressed that I'm too old to be on the show now....not that I'd ever actually want to (or think that I am good enough) to be on it. But I did have a plan to at least audition for the fun of it. It's depressing that it's not even an option. Now, about Ellen being on the show----everyone needs to cut her a little slack. It's that "darned if you do...darned if you don't" situation. When she was cast to replace Paula, everyone was afraid she would make too many jokes and she would get old, real fast. I was one of them! Well, now everyone is upset that she doesn't tell enough jokes. I've seen her talk show and she is, and always has been, a fan of 'Idol'. She truly wants to help the kids and I think music is at the core of her very being. I think she hates to tell someone something hurtful, but wants to help them improve and grow as artists and musicians. I think she is taking it very seriously and I think people should give her a little room to 'grow into' her new position.
2. Tiger Woods. First of all, is anyone really surprised by all that's gone on with him lately? And secondly, are we all really that naive to think he's the only {golfer, athlete, or man, etc. etc.} to be unfaithful?? Then why is everyone treating it as such???? Because he got caught and he's famous. That's why. I say, WHO CARES?! Honestly, no one is rooting for him more than me. Well, maybe his wife. But really, if HE can change, then ANYONE can, right??? I really want to believe people can change. So, you go, Tiger! I'm behind ya 110%!
3. I really am fascinated with geology and weather. Specifically, naturally occurring phenomena (is that a word?) My sister asked me this week why I felt that way---and I really couldn't come up with a solid answer. Scared? Paranoid? Nerdy? Curious? I guess, yes to all of that. I've been deathly frightened of thunder and lightening since I was a young child----but I would also be the first person to stare out the window at a lightening storm. I find them strangely romantic, yet petrifying. I frequently check the Mt. St. Helens webcam, the USGS recent earthquakes website and I love to watch the Weather Channel. I'm a huge fan of the show Storm Chasers and in another life, I would like to be a tornado chaser person. There is a word for them, but it's late and I haven't slept well in weeks, so the word escapes me...I think. :/ Whenever I drive through this certain stretch of highway in Nevada on the way to Utah or Idaho, I love to watch the "Tasmanian Devils" (as my brother and I named them when we were younger---they're really just called 'dust devils'). There was a wicked cool one I saw on this recent trip last week. It was almost touching some low lying clouds---it was awesome.
4. I also love stars and planets. I could stare at the night sky for hours and hours. I want to know more about the constellations. I miss being able to see part of the Milky Way at night....that's one good thing about Idaho that I miss. ;)
5. I love *Nsync. Notice I didn't say "loved". Love. As in, currently and still. I've been to three of their concerts, learned some of the dances and probably know more useless facts about them than anyone would ever care to know. I never tried to learn this information. It just sunk in as I watched every interview on TV they ever did. What?? I'm not pathetic, I swear. However, it's sad to me that there are High School aged children who don't even know Justin Timberlake was in a band before he was just bringin' sexy back. Because *NSYNC totally rules and kicks Backstreet Boys' tushies. (k, I don't hate BSB...they have some good songs too. I just wanted to rile some of you 'BSB-ers up...) :D
6. I love being a girly girl. But I love playing sports too. Not so much watching it. Unless I have someone to root for or unless it's in person. Then it's OK. Have you ever watched NASCAR when you have someone to cheer for? It's actually sort of fun! (but you can totally take a nap after the start and wake up in time to see the end...) :)
7. I'm super competitive. I hate when people don't keep score. What's the point then, ya know?? I compete with myself on a daily basis to see how fast I can do "x" activity and improve my time or results. Like, 'can I type this sentence super fast and not make any typos....?' chances are slim, but I'm gonna try anyway.
8. I like to find the fastest, yet most efficient way of doing practically everything.
9. I like to do things in the most logical order. I could go into detail, but I might come across as being a little crazy. (as if I haven't already proven that...)
10. I like Campbell's tomato soup, but I jazz it up with my own blend of spices....If I told you what they are, I'd have to kill you. J/K. And THEN I like to melt a pound (not really...but close) of cheese in it and make sure every bite is full of cheesy tomato-y goodness. Accompanied by a tall glass of milk, of course. Yum.
11. I hate cheesecake. Anything with cream cheese, actually. I smell it from across the room and I gag. Cottage cheese, too.
12. I haven't finished college. And truthfully, I don't know if I want to. I fully intend on going back to school, but for the purpose of learning---not to get a degree. Maybe that is foolish. I don't know. I experienced a school and life burn out when in college and I just needed a time-out. When the time is right, I will resume my formal schooling. But for now, the Internet will do. (I know that one made some people cringe).
13. Speaking of which, I love the Internet. I love that any question I have or dilemma I'm going through, someone out there will have the same question and I can find the answer in seconds. I guess that makes me obsessed/impatient/needy, but I'm OK with that.
14. I love all things pretty. I love make-up. I love fashion. I love home decor. I love nature. I love it all. Especially shoes....
15. I love to create. Anything. This is my favorite quote that I will be putting on my 'craft room' wall...someday....
"The desire to create is one of the deepest yearnings of the human soul. No matter our talents, education, backgrounds, or abilities, we each have an inherent wish to create something that did not exist before...Everyone can create. You don’t need money, position, or influence in order to create something of substance or beauty. Creation brings deep satisfaction and fulfillment. We develop ourselves and others when we take unorganized matter into our hands and mold it into something of beauty..." Fantastic, right??? When I heard this talk, it felt like it pierced my very soul and was directed right at me. Read the entire thing here. Even if you don't have the same beliefs I do, I think what he talked about is universal. I truly believe that.
16. I've always wanted to be a 'stay at home mom'.
17. If I'd had a more positive sense of my body image in Jr. High and High School I would have been a cheerleader. I taught myself dance and some gymnastics and have always loved it. But the thought of me being in a short skirt was vomit inducing at the time. I still don't love my legs...I'm a work in progress, alright?
18. I love diamonds. Maybe because it's my birthstone, but I don't think I could ever have too many.....although I'd be perfectly satisfied with 2 carat cushion or asscher cut studs in my ears.....that's per ear, not total. :) A girl can dream, right?
19. I'm a shopaholic. But I restrain myself quite well (financial situations---like having children---help with that, lol). I could literally spend all day browsing online websites or strolling through any and every mall and boutique anywhere. I could find at least one thing to buy in every store on the planet (if money was no object, of course). Don't believe me? I dare you to try and find one. Wait, maybe I take that back....there are probably a lot of stores in the world.....
20. I don't really like to read. If I can finish a book in a day or two, that's fine. But I hate to pick a book up, stop, pick it up a day or three later, forget what I read, go back, re-read....yuck. See #8. Neither fast nor efficient.
21. I love movies and TV.
22. Music is one of my favorite things in the world. All kinds. Except elevator jazz music and some southern gospel. I really love R&B, Hip-Hop and Pop. I especially love songs that combine all three. Some classical music is super invigorating to me as well.
23. I have too many interests. I like to try everything, but stop short of actually becoming good at something. Ballet, piano, violin, track, volleyball, softball...all things I stopped prematurely for one reason or another. I did extend my violin playing to the orchestra in college, but I didn't really try hard to make myself better.
24. I hate being the center of attention. Being sung "happy birthday" and opening gifts in front of people are my two least favorite things.
25. I have a slight social anxiety. I am not good at conversation and I hate talking about myself, which I always feel I end up doing. I much prefer to people watch. In fact, I really love to people watch.
26. I like to cook but I LOVE to bake. I try to put a personal spin on every recipe I make.

27. I am fascinated with history. Especially interested in buildings and architecture. I have a long list of places I want to visit that include all the classics, like Egypt, Greece, Italy, France and London, as well as places in the states. Whenever I'm driving and I see an old building, I study it's ornate or unique characteristics and I always think about all the people that have ever lived there, or worked there or even just passed through. I love walking through an old house---you just feel the history. I love watching 'Antiques Roadshow' and I am starting to collect a few antiques in my house. They just feel more special than the new stuff you find at the stores.
28. I love ghost stories and urban legends. I sort of like to be scared. Maybe it's because I'm from Idaho and there was nothing better to do, but I can remember numerous times visiting supposed 'haunted places' around town. I like to watch those ghost chaser shows--you know the ones?? However I saw one the other day that scared me to death---and not in a good way. They try to make the 'spirits' angry and I didn't like that. I like the more mild and wholesome ghost shows. :) I especially love the ones they do in the old civil-war era homes and plantations. Creepy, but totally interesting. If you are ever bored, look up your city's urban legends or haunted places. Chances are, there are some near you!! (A couple miles away from my house there is an empty couple of acres that is an old Native American burial ground....you should hear the stories the people who live around it tell!!)

OK I will stop here....in case there is anyone left actually reading this. Told you it would be long and boring. Maybe my kids will get a kick out of it someday.

Yes, I have issues. And I've come to terms with them. So there you have it. I think I may regret this post.... :/

::More Sneaks::

2010-02-12T11:51:00.000-08:00

Here are a few snippets of my current projects:

Family Room:

Antiques I'm attempting to restore.

Any guesses? It may have something to do with this post (read closely):

Girls' Room:

Come back soon for more! Cross your fingers that they work. I'm in uncharted territory!

Any opinions??

DECORATING

2010-02-04T11:50:00.000-08:00

I'm finally getting to the point where I can make this house look like a home (and not an empty house someone puts furniture in to make it look lived in...aside from the mounds of laundry and dishes, of course... )

It is taking me so unbelievably and annoyingly loooooong to do simple things. I know I have a few distractions, but I feel like that shouldn't be a deterrent. And I realize that most of you are wondering what stage of denial I'm in. :) I just feel like I'm trying to swim through mud. But despite all of that, I've accomplished a few things the first month of 2010---my "YEAR OF ACHIEVEMENT"! OK----that's stretching it. But I do feel like this is my year to "get ahead"....or at the very least catch up.

Here are a few pictures of the current projects:

:THE GIRLS' BATH:

traditional pink and black girly/vintage theme with modern twists.

Take my fave pics from this B&W Paris calendar:

Add a blank canvas:

Add some spray adhesive and clear enamel spray for humidity protection; followed by a yet to be added black ribbon edge: = CHEAP ART!!
I realize they are crooked. I just threw them up so I could take a picture. I still need to add the black ribbon band around the edge to finish it off.

Cornice box over the window: (for a tutorial go here)

Vinyl decal on the door "Le Bain" (means "the bath" in French, of course)
I still need to put up the black chair-rail above the glazed faux tin wallpaper (can't wait to break in my Christmas gift of an air nailer! yay!), add either a real or faux roman shade in white THEN I've got an interesting ceiling treatment up my sleeve. And someday there will be beautiful things on the countertop. But until my children are older, that will have to wait.

I will reveal when it's all completed
...sometime this century....

NEXT PROJECT

::The Family Room::

*sneak peek*

When was the last time you went HERE:

2010-01-30T10:59:00.000-08:00

(Or have you EVER been to one??)

I went there to buy a gift yesterday, but it's not where I intended to go---it's a long story. I was looking for an Old Navy that apparently isn't completed yet, even though the website lists it as a current location. GRR. I was mad after spending most of my time driving around, so up the block I saw a Burlington. I thought, "what the heck, I'll give it a try". I hadn't been there in years and I remember the previous comforter we bought there was pretty nice. SO I pulled in.

I walked in the door and was greeted by racks and racks of cool, inexpensive jewelry! I was immediately impressed. I wandered back to the kids section (where I needed to get the gift) and I found lots and lots of viable options! You know how when you are looking for something specific or have money to spend, you can NEVER find anything you like or want??? This was the first time where I was finding LOTS of things, within my budget, that were actually cute!!

After I found what I came for, I decided to wander through the rest of the store, just out of curiosity. What I found shocked me!! There were rows and rows of pillows. Not ugly pillows. Cute pillows. Unique pillows. And they were selling for two for $12! TWO FOR $12?!?! I can't make them for that cheap! (trust me, I know. I just bought several yards of fabric to make my own! grr.) Then after that, rows of curtain panels, and rows of comforters and sheets and etc. etc. THEN in the back section there is the art and mirrors and vases and other decorative accessories. It's divided by color and style so it's easy to find something you like. I found probably $1000 worth of things I would buy in an instant! But I was strong and withstood the temptation. There was a Moroccan inspired section (the style I am basing my family room on) and found a similar table to this one I love that sells for $130:

Burlington's version: (notice the cool moroccan star, colored glass lantern and brass stool!!)

For less than $50! It's a little less intricate, but it gives the same feel. Most of the lanterns and apothecary jars and vases were under $20. It was so fun to look around! I will definitely be coming back! Burlington really surprized me---and I'm excited about that!

Go visit one near you and see what treasures you will find!

Project 2: Christmas Gifts

2010-01-14T13:53:00.000-08:00

Here are some of the "JOY" plates I made for gifts this year.

For someone with a wintery blue and silver snowman theme:

For my mom who has a red and green ginger bread theme (notice the tiny gingerbread man charm at the bottom) :

For someone with a red and white scheme:

General red and green old fashioned Christmas scheme:

Then I made some yummy home-made treats for neighbors and friends.

Peppermint Swirl Marshmallows:

("You've NEVER made your own marshmallows?????" inside joke.)

Heating the sugar

Beating the egg whites:

After slowly adding the hot sugar to egg whites---so beautiful and fluffy!

Spread in a pan and swirl on food coloring:

Cut into shapes, dip in powdered sugar and voila!

My girls absolutely loved them! Then I made several batches (cuz someone kept eating it all....not me, though....*winks*) of fudge, soda cracker candy, ginger chews and that's it, I think.

I love Christmas and all the baking and present making, but I'm glad to have a 300 and some odd days' break! Aren't you??

Until next year, friends!!

::Catching Up - 2009's Projects::

2010-01-06T11:04:00.000-08:00

There are a few projects I've meant to post about, but haven't gotten around to it. So in the interest of time, I will do one post after another. The projects really aren't all THAT great but just in case they spark some idea in your own heads, I will share them with you!

First Project: DINING ROOM CHANDELIER

We knew we needed new lighting fixtures on top of everything else we've done, but have you looked at the prices of chandeliers these days? Even the ugly ones are expensive!! I lucked out for the new nook fixture that was on clearance for $30 and the bathroom fixtures were $9 each. STEALS! Well, I wasn't able to locate anything I loved for the dining room. I found several I liked that were decent prices, (around $200) but they were still way over my budget. So I decided to try and make my own!!

I took the ones I liked as my inspiration:

Then I used materials I had on hand and recycled the old nook fixture:

(sorry I am lazy and didn't appropriately crop the photo and sorry it's a crappy photo, too. I know there is a better one somewhere....)

I removed the glass shade and sprayed the brass fixture with chrome spraypaint:

Used this old 60's drumshade that someone gave me that I was saving for something:
Removed the hard shade and wrapped some sheer black fabric around the metal frame that was left behind, attaching with hot glue. It was trickier than I had anticipated. The bottom ring and the top ring were independent from one another so once you attached the top, you had to make sure that the spacing was even and perfect all the way around while attaching the bottom ring to the fabric or it puckered and was uneven. Good thing I bought double the fabric, just in case because I had to do it twice to get it close to even!
This is the metallic velvet burnout zebra stripes fabric. Sounds crazy (and maybe it is) but I liked the pattern with the wallpaper. I bought 1.5 yards for $12, including shipping. Not too shabby!

Then I attached some ornaments I bought on clearance a couple years ago at WalMart for the "crystal" drops around the bottom frame and from the arms of the fixture itself. I am contemplating wrapping the top frame and the bottom frame with a 1" black satin or grosgrain ribbon to finish it off a bit but it looks OK as is...for now. That's a project for when I have nothing else to do..... ;)

$12 for fabric+$5 for spraypaint+$5 for ornaments (or less)=A pretty snazzy chandelier for well under $25!!

BEFORE:

AFTER:

Yay! I know it's not for everyone, but I LOVE it. And that's all that counts, right???

A New Year = A New Look

2009-12-30T19:20:00.000-08:00

re·hash (r-hsh)
tr.v. re·hashed, re·hash·ing, re·hash·es
1. To bring forth again in another form without significant alteration.

A little blog re-hash was in order to welcome in the New Year. This is my first full-fledged venture into major HTML experimentation. I'm pleased with the outcome. Opinions? Comments?

I'm sure to anyone really familiar with HTML will think I'm an absolute wuss...but hey---I've learned something new and I totally feel like a super-hero! hahaaaa :)

Growing On Me.

2009-12-19T21:45:00.000-08:00

I guess they aren't that bad.

I have ALWAYS had a hard time with seeing something in my mind and having whatever it was turn out differently.

Sort of like when you eat too much and you say, "My eyes were bigger than my stomach!"----except it's, "My brain thinks I'm way better than my actual skill level!". Time and time again this happens. But I'm ok with it all in the end. Just takes an adjustment on my part.

I do wish they were bigger, but they work. Actually, I'm starting to like them.

By the way, I, in no way, was trying to solicit positive comments to feed my ego in the previous "wreath disaster" post....I was just being honest. Truly. I was totally expecting someone to say, "yeah, you're right. they stink". (maybe a little nicer than that....)

What a difference a few days and a sliced finger make.....

More on that later....hopefully it turns out to be nothing....

Well, sometimes it works....

2009-12-18T10:04:00.000-08:00

....and sometimes it doesn't.

I mentioned in this post that I was going to be working on wreaths for the front door. After working on them a bit yesterday, I finished them this morning.

I, as always, was trying to be thrifty and use the same grapevine wreath forms that I bought for my Fall wreaths (for $2 each, which I thought was a steal!) and use fresh flora from my own yard. I found an evergreen bush of some sort, some weeds that looked like holly leaves and a few trees with red winter berries. I glittered and sprayed them to look festive and Christmas-y. I sprayed some more fallen tree branches silver and stuck them in there, too.

You would think I would need nothing more, right???

Well, it didn't go on as smoothly as I had planned (does anything?) The branches stuck out too far so I had to pare those down in order for people to enter and exit through the door without losing an eye. "Hey, friend! Come on in! OH, and sorry about the whole eye thing...."

Not very welcoming.

So this is what I am stuck with for at least a month. Yes, I am one of those who will leave up their Christmas decorations until Valentine's day. It seems such a pity to do all the work for just a couple weeks of enjoyment, right?? My house always looks so bare and empty after the Holidays. It will be even worse this year since I have absolutely NO wall art or pictures up on ANY wall yet. I guess it will get me to do it quicker. I just don't want to rush into putting something up and not be happy with where it goes because we all know that I won't get around to moving it. Once it's up, it's up for good! Sort of the same with these wreaths. I could take the time and rip them apart and start over, but I just don't have that kind of surplus when it comes to 'time'. So they are staying as is. Puny and sad as they are. Oh well. At least it's not fall leaves anymore and I don't have to say "It's still Fall here at the LaPlaca house" when people come to the door....

i guess this means i need to take the pumpkins (that we never carved) off the front porch now, too,huh? :/

When I started this blog I always said I would post my successes and failures. So there you have it! Feel free to mock and make suggestions. I'm truly at peace with it all.

At least the treats I made for Tony's work luncheon turned out pretty fantastic {even if I do say so myself!} ;)

Soda Cracker Candy, Peppermint Swirl Marshmallows and my ALL TIME fave, Ginger Chews

Yum. Now I'm off to console myself with a cookie and some hot chocolate.

What are your best/worst Holiday crafts or food adventures??

Deckin' the Halls....

2009-12-16T22:23:00.000-08:00

....Or at least the Family Room.

I know I'm behind. There's nothing new about that. But at least we now have a tree and a little festive-ness in the house. In fact, just TODAY I started working on the wreaths for the front doors. This is the first year with double doors and I was ill-prepared. But I found some fantastic stuff in the yard and I can't wait to put it all together and welcome people into our home with them this Christmas.

I am SO excited about my tree this year. We haven't had a big tree for a few years for several reasons. The first being: three years ago I was on bedrest with the triplets and not allowed to stand, let alone decorate a tree. Last year and the year before that, I had been planning for and decorating trees that were donated to the Festival of Trees and was all tree'd-out when the time came to do our own. Not to mention the fact that I have three very active and inquisitive children that would gladly climb a Christmas tree if I let them. (more on them later... )

I bought my delightful tree on clearance after Christmas two years ago for an even more delightful price, and it has sat, unopened, ever since. I even bought several clearance ornaments in a whole new color scheme and I am beyond ecstatic that I actually got to use them and see what it looks like in 'real life' and not in my head! :)

Remember a few sentences back about the children wanting to climb the tree? Although they didn't climb this one, they did remove the ornaments from entire bottom half two days after I set it up. Ironically, this was the first time in my whole life that I used a few glass ornaments. Silly me. I thought that by just telling my children not to touch the tree, they'd actually listen. Not so much. Luckily, only one ornament broke and no one was injured. They haven't touched the tree since. I don't feel I need to go into details about my 'speech' to them after "the incident" but apparently what I said worked.... :D I put the removed ornaments back on, but it doesn't quite look the same as before. I just don't have the energy to figure out where things went originally and to account for the missing broken ornament...so they just kind of haphazardly ended back up on the tree. I know that's how one SHOULD decorate a tree....but I just can't do it that way. Every ornament has to be perfectly spaced apart from one another and an equal distance away from those of it's same kind. A little OCD? Probably. Honestly, I can't really look at my tree because all I see are the flaws. I'm just trying to love having a tree rather than worry about how well it's decorated. So far, that is working.

[and not, by any stretch of the imagination, do I think any of my trees have been perfect. or even good, for that matter---far, far from that. i just get excited about design in any form and want to share my love for creation with everyone. creativity is a skill i hope to develop further through any means possible. that's sort of the whole idea for this blog. even just experimentation is beautiful!! so you don't need to think it's beautiful. i'm just in love with everything. it's been a joyous journey for me.]

Here are some photos of the [only] decorated room!

We didn't have a chance to put up our mantel before we moved in, so I did a makeshift space-filler with branches I collected from my front yard after a big wind storm. (I'm sure Tony is glad to finally not have a pile of branches sitting on the front porch!) I spray painted them with chrome spraypaint and hung some extra gold, copper, silver and champagne colored ornaments. Further down is a pic of the completed scene with the girls stockings 'hung by the chimney with care'. I didn't get to finish 'embellishing' them, but they'll do for now!

An extra branch and ornaments on the components shelf (not as tidy as I would like it, but eh. who cares.)

Up close pic of the console table. Glass block also depicts a Nativity scene, if you look closely. So far, no one has tried to 'play house' with Mary and baby Jesus. Phew!

Here are the added stockings and wreath to hearth.

I hope to add pictures of the front door tomorrow or Friday. IF I can actually get the wreaths done....

Here's a sneak peek:

Yay! I'm excited...although those leaves are SHARP!!! I got poked one time and you would have thought I was stabbed with a knife! Owey.

Merry Christmas, everyone!

Happy Decking!

The First Week of December

2009-12-08T08:13:00.000-08:00

...was a DOOZY! I can honestly say that I'm glad it's OVER!! Even though I did enjoy the distractions...a little....

The Sacramento Festival of Trees and Lights was the 4th and 5th of December, but planning started back in August! (the first meeting was the night before we moved. Yes, my husband was pleased as punch that I left the night before moving. Can't blame him, but I didn't attend any more of the meetings so that should be a good trade...) With moving and the Festival, two RS events, and trying to make my children and husband happy, these have been some really busy months.

There was a lot of work and preparation just to begin decorating for the Festival, the part I was in charge of. I was given the title "Designer/Decorator". It was sort of generous---but I'll take it! We finally started putting things up the Saturday following Thanksgiving (after a few trips to the venue in November for final measurements and things.) We were there all day Saturday, Monday(i think---it's all a blur), most of the day Tuesday, I took Wednesday to spend with the family, then back a little on Thursday, squeezed in a trip on the "Polar Express" ride, and then back Friday--the morning of. I am so grateful for all the help I had! From watching the girls to tying fishing line to re-attaching jingle balls (after someone put them on haphazardly the first time----thank you, Sandra) to unpacking the decorations and organizing to just BEING THERE. I FOR SURE couldn't have done it myself. Sure, I had my breakdowns---crying in the bathroom is OK, people!!! But it couldn't have turned out any better! And, truth be told, no one really even notices the decorations with all the beautiful trees around! I suppose it adds another "layer" of interest to the event. :)

Earlier in the week, Tuesday to be exact, was the RS Quarterly Meeting for which we assembled crafts to donate to the Craft Boutique at the Festival. Instead of doing a Christmas dinner and program, as was done in years past, we decided to go the service route and truly get into the REAL meaning of Christmas, which is to celebrate the birth of the Savior and His life of service. We thought it was a really fitting way to kick off the Season! With the help of the RS presidency, I selected 4 crafts (from about 15 I had narrowed down) and collected all the necessary supplies. It was a lot more work than I imagined, but I'm so grateful everyone took one craft and helped get some of the supplies for me. Phew! It was fun and the Festival sold quite a few, which is impressive since the Festival was only for Friday evening and all day Saturday.

The following pictures show the labor of love both of these events and ensuing projects were to me. I feel truly blessed to have been given the chance to be involved in such awesome events! Enjoy!

What the centerpieces looked like when I bought them....

(Pretty, yes, but they didn't match our 'color scheme' of gold, copper, silver and peacock blue)

SO......

All 22 trees disassembled All 264 bells(....yes, I counted) ready for spraying!
I spray-painted. For hours. My little tree forest:

First step: done.

Color Scheme:

Sprayed bells put back on. I didn't like the way they looked, so I decided to hand glitter them.
:/ Not my brightest idea ever. But they did look better in the end....

See?

All the hand gluing and sprinkling was worth it! :) (....and the glitter that I am STILL finding all over my house...)
We decided to sell the centerpieces at the Boutique after the Gala event Friday night and this is one of 3 that I bought back on display at my house:

The venue "BEFORE":

Picture 2 of the venue from the entrance:

The Venue During the Decorating:

The Finished Product:

The Gala Event Friday Evening:

Crafts the RS Assembled and Donated to the Festival Boutique:

A fun couple of days were had by ALL!

The Cathedral Square Homeless Program thanks EVERYONE for their contributions of money, time and good works! Hope to see you all there next year!

T-Day

2009-11-27T11:02:00.001-08:00

That's right. Turkey Day.

It was a bit crazy. The girls decided to get sick, I was way behind on cooking and cleaning, I didn't get to shower beforehand, we ate an hour later than planned and we skipped making the green salad and dessert. Well, my mother in law brought what was, I'm sure, a delicous Marie Calendar's apple pie. But I didn't partake. No time. And also, I'm a pie snob. It's true. Thank my wonderful mother who is the queen of all things pie. There is usually a pie-per-person ratio back home, and while my tastebuds are realllllly missing that this year, my waistline is saying, "oh thank goodness!"

Another thing I deeply miss this year is my family. I can't remember for sure the last Thanksgiving I had with them---maybe 4 years ago? It's just not as fun cooking and getting ready for the day alone. Tony was helping out a lot, but he was also helping watch the girls and clean up where I hadn't yet. And his back still gives him a lot of trouble so he had to rest every now and then. I was super grateful my mother in law made the stuffing, prosciutto wrapped asparagus and fresh fruit salad, or else we might not have had those things either!! And Tony's family is so great. I enjoy the time spent with them. I just miss my own family, too.

I tried three new recipes this year---I made the traditional green bean casserole that I love, but I made it with fresh beans instead of canned. REALLY good. I recommend it to everyone. It's soooo much less mushy. The true test will be to see how mushy it is when I have the leftovers for lunch! :) The second recipe I tried was a Sweet Potato Gratin. You layer thin sliced rounds of sweet potato with a little salt, pepper, cinnamon and brown sugar in a round baking dish. Repeat however many times you wish. Then pour cream (I used half and half to cut the fat a little tiny bit) until it's halfway up the potato layers and bake. In the future I will probably cover it, because the top got a little too crunchy for me. But maybe some people like it crunchy. To remedy that, I put a tiny bit of butter on top. Softened it right up! It was pretty good, but unless there are lots of people to eat it, you will have tons of leftovers. And I really only like sweet potatoes on Thanksgiving day. But I'll give leftovers a shot. It might be good cold with a little whipped cream on top. Sorry if that grosses some of you out (my husband is one who will be). the third recipe I tried was a Cranberry Pinapple Relish. It turned out really nice and refreshing. I actually ended up cooking about half of it so part of it would be a little more traditional, since the other half is just raw cranberries. Both were good and different. Personally, I liked the cooked version. Tony liked the raw. But it was fun to try something new! Next year I'm doing a warm Cranberry Grape compote. Yum.

I didn't get to do the whole tablescape I wanted to either, but it still worked out well. I don't think there would have been room to do what I wanted, anyway. It was fun to "break in" our "new" dining room with a big Thanksgiving meal. Such an appropriate "first" use! I couldn't have been more excited. I planned on using the china as well, but I ran out of time to wipe the dust off of them. Oh well. Someday I will actually "decorate" the dining room. it looks so bare without window coverings and blank walls. But the wallpaper and ceiling do plenty of talking on their own. I just haven't figured out quite what will go well with them yet. But I will!

{{In case you are wondering about all of the " " marks, let me explain---in case you don't remember. Our "new" house is actually the house Tony grew up in. And since we began dating, all but one Thanksgiving I think, has taken place right here (and of course all of Tony and his sister's Thanksgivings ). So, this was the first year of it being remodeled and pretty much like a "new" house. It was sort of surreal to think about the old Thanksgivings spent here. And I'm sure even more surreal for Tony and his family. I hope it was still as great for everyone else as in years past.}}

Everything was wonderful just how it was and I truly enjoyed our "first" Thanksgiving in our new home. I was honored to host!

Here are just a couple photos of the table and dining room. I wish I would have taken more up close and of the food, but I just ran out of time. We were literally sitting down at the table as I was hurridly taking them.

I hope you had a GRATEFUL day! We did!

Turkey Day Menu

2009-11-25T19:11:00.000-08:00

I can't wait for Turkey Day. However, as much as I enjoy cooking, I just wish I could sit and do nothing while someone else does all the cooking this year. But I digress.

This years' menu will be mostly lower fat. Why not make good food a little bit better for you??

Here it is:

Stuffed Oven Roasted Turkey (of course)
Stuffing with sausage and pine nuts
Fall Salad with buttermilk dressing
Prosciutto wrapped roasted asparagus
Sweet Potato Gratin
Fruit salad
Rolls
Fresh Green Bean Casserole
Cranberry Pineapple relish
Homemade Gravy

I have yet to figure out dessert (I know, it's tomorrow) But it will all come together!

If anything turns out well, I will share a recipe or two. I love experimenting!! :) Maybe I will take a few pictures and post them tomorrow night.

Come back for some pictures of my recent projects for the Festival of Trees and Lights! It's only a week away!! Yikes!!!

Have a very very happy and GRATEFUL Thanksgiving! Mine will be!

How to Refinish Your Mirrored Closet Door Frames

2009-10-08T17:26:00.001-07:00

I had one request for this, so I thought I would just post instructions here, in case someone else out there would like to try refinishing their closet door tracks and frames.

First, take apart the whole thing. The WHOLE thing. Remember where each piece goes, maybe label the under not-showing sides with masking tape indicating their positions. (you could leave the frame around the mirrors if you cover the mirrored surface with newspaper---either way, it takes some work). Take pictures if you need to.

Second take it outside and sand the entire surface REALLY WELL with coarse steel wool. I didn't do as good a job as I should have (rushing---and it was 100+ degrees on the days I decided to do it. Smart, I know.)

Third, prime with spray primer made for anodized metal. Ask someone at the hardware or home improvement store. If you can go to a strictly paint store, all the better. The primer I got was just alright. It bubbled in spots, but it's handle-able. Make sure you use a large drop cloth and weigh down the edges to prevent the plastic from blowing onto your drying surfaces. (yeah, that also happened). I sprayed two sides at a time and let dry then rotated. Let dry a little longer than the can suggests...maybe a couple days.

Fourth, spray with chrome spray paint. Follow the instructions precisely concerning drying and re-coating times. Be careful when touching. If it hasn't cured before handling, you will leave fingerprints. Found that out the hard way, as well! :)

The best spray I've found (and trust me, I've gone through about 5 different kinds) is this one:

Rustoleum Bright Coat in Chrome with Metallic Finish. I only did 2 coats, and it turned out pretty good.

Fifth, and optional, is to seal it with a clear coat enamel. I didn't do that and have noticed some scratches. I have read, in doing research, that the clear coat might take away the chrome look and just make it look gray. So, test it out on a hidden part. I suggest the under side of the track that faces the floor. It the past I've used a really good clear coat on a variety of projects and really loved the results:

DecoArt Triple Thick Glaze brilliant gloss spray

As I said, I did not do this step, but wish I did. You may be able to receive guidance from the paint store people. All you can do is try.

Sixth and final step is reassembly. Not the most fun ever. Those mirrored doors are STINKIN heavy. Get some gentlemen to help!

You could do any color besides chrome, following the same basic instructions. You wouldn't have to be as particular about touching and drying times, either. But I would especially use the glaze on any other color. It would look so cool and shiny.

If I missed something, or was unclear about anything, please ask! I'm not real great at instructions---so I hope this is understandable! It isn't a quick project, but take your time and do all the steps and it will turn out FANTASTIC! (better than mine, for sure, since I was impatient).

Good luck and be brave!!

Too busy for projects....

2009-10-07T09:37:00.000-07:00

Ugh. I have so many I need to do. I can barely keep the house decent, let alone unpack and work on projects. I've been neglecting posting pics of the house because I wanted it to look cute and decorated. But I don't know if that's going to happen for a while. I just have to get used to that fact.

So here are some long overdue pictures of the house. Sorry Katy, they are the same ones I emailed you. Nothing else has been done. :/ I am still working on the rest of the house.

Someday you might get to see all of it..... :)

Girls' bathroom. Parisian black white and pink. My mom made the gorgeous shower curtain from laminated cotton fabric, wide grosgrain ribbon and inexpensive cotton. Eventually it will have more of a Parisian flair....

Family Room. Added ceiling fans, painted beams and mounted TV. Someday we will get the cords looking nice and some stuff on the walls. :)

Second view of Family room. The far right niche is the wet bar that will someday be my craft room.

The project I stressed over---but I got to use a wet saw for the first time! Scary but fun!
Glass tile to the ceiling.

Nook and pantry. Several projects left to finish here, too.

View of kitchen and nook from family room. I love my gigantic peninsula. The granite people said it was the largest one they've ever done...weighing 800+lbs! I'm so glad we could do it in one slab instead of two pieces, like they wanted to do.

Many more pictures to come. Slowly, but surely. Someday I will do a post about all the fantastic deals I found. Again...someday.... :)

MOVING DAY

2009-08-26T04:13:00.000-07:00

It's 4:15 AM.

Tony and I haven't gone to bed yet.

And won't be at all. Still packing and readying the new house.

I broke down and made Tony buy Mountain Dew. It's truly saved me tonight.

Man. This is the biggest pain. I will be so glad when it's over. Unfortunately, we will still have a lot of stuff here after the movers come in just a few short hours. I just couldn't get it all packed. So we will be coming back and forth for a while. It is what it is. At least we are only moving a few miles away.

I am grateful for this opportunity and we know we are so blessed. Truly, we can't complain about anything. I'm so excited, and a little trepidatious, about starting our lives there. Wondering, most of all, how the girls will adjust. We will all be much happier in our 'new house'.

We've been prepping the girls for the move for weeks saying "momma's (or daddy's) working on the 'new house' " or "pretty soon we'll move to the 'new house' and you'll get to sleep in big girl beds!!" They are SOOO excited for their new "big girl beds". I don't think they even know what it means, but they announce that they are getting "biggurl beyd atta new houuuuse!" every day. I think they can feel the change coming on a deeper level. (how could they not with the disaster that is currently our house? -even more so than normal--which is a scary thought) They didn't want to go to bed tonight and just wanted to stay and get 'cozy' on the couch with me. Tears started to well up when I realized that this would be the last 'cozy' in this house. The last night in the house filled with so many important and special memories! Especially when Jordy looked over at me, saying, almost on the verge of tears, 'my wanna stay he-ure.' Then Avery said 'my wanna stay here too' and then Ashleigh followed suit. I don't know if they just meant here=couch or...could they really mean it that way? I couldn't help but wonder...

Sitting on the couch with them brought thoughts of when Tony and I first moved in, with our hand-me-down couch that only sat three people. Then came the memory of buying our current sectional (which was our first 'big' purchase as a couple), and soon followed by remembering the months, days, hours and minutes I spent on that couch on bed-rest while I carried my three little squirming angels---then bringing them home from the NICU, first Jordyn and Avery after two weeks and Ashleigh two more weeks later. All the time spent {{awake}} taking care of them when they were so tiny, to watching them use that couch to help them take their first steps---which brings us to now when they remove all the pillows, pile them up in front of the couch and yell "One! Two! Go!" and cannon ball into the pillow---and occasionally each other. :)

I just can't believe the time has gone so fast! Five years in, what we thought was, our temporary house...

It's been wonderful. But change is good.

I surely will miss our little house though....

A few last tasks....etc.

2009-08-18T23:00:00.000-07:00

Well, tomorrow I will be tiling the back splash. Should be interesting, to say the least. I am having a professional 'show me the ropes' (--er, grout?) and I'm pretty excited. I have always wanted to learn how to do it. I've seen it COUNTLESS times on home make-over shows...so I could TELL you what to do---but as far as actually DOING it, not a clue. After tomorrow I should be a pro! (That was supposed to be a joke...hahaaaa) :)

So on a slightly unrelated note, I was given these little rocking club chairs for free:And have NO CLUE what to do with them.

Recovering them would take too much money and time. I really like the shape and the tufting and stuff, so a slipcover is out---not to mention expensive. And the color actually (and surprisingly) would contrast nicely with my 'aqua-grey-cream-black-and-espresso brown' color-scheme....but they just look.........old.......ya know? Which they are---probably 40 or 50 years or more. Although in PRISTINE condition, I might add!

I thought about spraying them with this stuff. But there isn't really a color I love--maybe the brown or black. Not to mention doing that scares me just a little...but so many people SWEAR by it. I dunno. Suspect.

I thought, maybe a coordinating pillow in an ultra modern print would jazz it up a bit. I like these, but none really GRAB me:

prob my fave, but kinda weird.

no idea what it's supposed to be....

a bit yellow, but the grey and cream is nice....

only a HINT of aqua and maybe a bit too green-ish

straight up orange and cream.
maybe it would bring out the orange in the chairs TOO much...

really like this one, colors are dead on---but is it the right style??

(The print is actually big; this entire picture would be one large pillow!)

I want the pattern to coordinate with this fabric. (picture is brighter than it is in real life):

And I really want some black and white in there somewhere...maybe a damask or zebra or some other large scale print.

So can you see my struggles??

OK, I know, in the grand scheme, very low on the totem pole. But it still occupies my mind! It will be a project down the road a ways anyway, but thought I would throw it out there for some input.

((hint, hint))

;)

Tidbits

2009-08-13T23:08:00.000-07:00

Sorry for the bad cell phone pics again. I will take some more this week with the camera now that there isn't so much construction debris floating around!

(Thanks to Tony who has been over there cleaning and vacuuming after the girls go to bed at night. You're the best, hon!!!)

Nook with pantry pocket door, chandelier and a smidgen of the banquette close up of my nailhead detail on the bench. not a quick job---over 200 individual nailheads!
Master bath-Tony's closet.
The frames/track were previously an anodized gold color so I sprayed them chrome.

Front door painted cream and new frosted glass inserts.

Nearly completed dining room. All that's left is the trim around the ceiling and the chandelier that I'm making(ish) that may not work...you will be the judges....

Okay. Hope that satisfies some curiosity out there. :)
More to come. The camera is coming with me this week, I promise!

The move in date is set for the 26th! Wish us luck----we'll need it!!!!!!

Random Non-New House Related Thoughts

2009-07-25T22:36:00.000-07:00

A few thoughts:

Design Star.

I always hate the contestants on reality shows. Ok, almost all of the contestants. I usually pick the lesser of the evils to root for. I didn't watch the first season (i think this is only the 2nd?? Could be like the fourth...) Project Runway was on at the same time last season and my husband made me chose...but it wasn't really a choice because he would only watch Runway. Which is totally cool because I-HEART-Runway. Come back soon would ya???) So the previous winner of Design Star, DAVID BROMSTAD, is one of the most talented people I've seen in a long time. I love his show Color Splash on HGTV and try not to miss an episode. He just seems like cool guy. I figure, if the show could produce such a great designer/artist, then I MUST watch it this time. The first episode aired last Sunday and (they keep showing re-runs in case you missed it). I don't really love anyone in particular (except the judges---they picked the perfect balance of people this year! Genevieve Gorder, Vern Yip and Candace Olson. I love all three. I watch all of their shows too.....I think I may have an unhealthy obsession with HGTV........) The contestants are relatively talented, some professionally trained and some self taught, and some actually surprised me! I found myself kind of sad when the episode was over---I could watch design competition type shows 24/7. No kidding! I can't wait for the next episode. If you loved 90210, they are decorating a room in "Brandon's" and "Valerie's" houses in L.A. in an upcoming episode. Should be fun!

Secondly: I love the Kelly Wearstler Imperial Trellis print. Every "designer" from here to Timbuktu has said they are "sooo over it". And yes, I've seen in LOTS of places, every home decorating magazine and high end decor, but dang if I'm still not in love with it. So shoot me.

So what's you're opinion?? Hate it? Love it? Think I shouldn't care if it's one of the biggest current design faux-pas?? The fabric can be found no cheaper than $150/yard. Yes, people. PER YARD!!!! But, I (exhaustedly) researched my brains out and found a replica that is a fraction of the cost. Find it here. What do you think of it? Yes, it's polyester vs. linen. But Linen wrinkles, folks. But $11/yard is wayyyy better. There is another version that is slightly different, but very close. And it's only 8.95/yard. That's more in my price range....

I really appreciate soooo many different styles of decor---especially well designed and thought out ones. That is why it's been so hard to get things picked out for my house because I love sooo many non-coordinating styles. But I think I've done an OK job blending a few of my favorites all while keeping my husbands tastes and my children's needs in mind.

Guess I'd better go and get recording more HGTV!!! ;)

"Ohhhhhhhhh! We're Half-Way Theeeee-eeerrrrrrrre!"

2009-07-20T16:56:00.000-07:00

Yes, we're "Livin' on a Prayer"....

that we will finish this project sometime this year! Ha ha!!

No really, we are so close. We've actually made more progress beyond this set of pictures, but I just keep forgetting to bring my camera over to the house with me. And my cell phone pictures are quite pathetic. :) So I apologize about the quality.

But here are some new-ish pictures for y'all:

Girls bath up close:

Pale pink upper wall and ceiling with this faux-tin tile wallpaper on the bottom third of wall (black chair-rail to come):

Family room:

Drywall primed, walls textured and then primed again, ceiling and beams painted.

Close up of ceiling and beams

One wall painted

(the beams are actually a shade or two lighter than ceiling color and done in a high gloss vs. the flat on ceiling. hard to tell, even in 'real life'. darn)

This is my very labor intensive project----the formal dining room.
Here are a series of photos depicting the steps.
[Disclaimer: The 'gold' color was supposed to be a creamy/champagne color---not this intense copper-y gold. but it was a pain to paint, so it's staying. It's growing on me.]

Step 1:
accent the swirls in the plaster with shine and glamour!

Step 2: Shiny silver edge on the dimensional part of ceiling

Step 3: Dramatic Wallpaper on single wall

Close up detail of all three steps:

(I've partially completed the last step which is painting the little lip between the silver and gold parts black to create the illusion of more depth.)

More pictures coming soon! I promise!!

Demolition, Baby!!

2009-06-19T22:31:00.000-07:00

What a mess!!

Our granite guys offered to tear out the rest of the cabinets and haul away the old appliances (including the bathroom cabinets and sinks!) for a REALLY good deal!

I am SOOOO grateful!
----(cuz WE would have had to deal with all this craziness)----

It was super dusty, too, with tearing out the tile and stuff--
they had fans blowing out the doors and windows. Yuck.

oh. my.

[the light at the end of that tunnel was non-existent at this point....]

post-demo! A blank slate!

look at what a great job of cleaning up they did!

(nice linoleum, btw! it was hiding underneath the carpet)

but we got the pantry wall knocked out! ahh--visual progress!!

kitchen cabinets went in over the next two days! Great job, Justin!! You are speedy!

Aren't they GORGE?!
Creamy colored maple with slight hand glazing details.
Notice the bump-out at the sink, and it's hard to see, but the bar side has a large arch, echoing the arched valance over the sink.
Love!

We put a row of cupboards on the opposite side of peninsula for storage:

My ginormous nook banquette seating! i'm in LOVE with the fabric.
(I basically designed the whole entire house around this fabric)
I knew I wanted to use it somehow, some way, the first time I laid eyes on it! Remember this post from way back??
It's outdoor fabric so it's water-resistant, but I'm totally going to scotchguard it, just in case!
(i still want to add tufting and a nailhead trim, but that will be last on my ever-growing list)

Girls bathroom cabinets: black painted maple with slight distressing.
We added a second sink as well.

Master bath cabinets: classic dark stained maple.
I LOVE the huge sink we picked--(pics to come)

The next set of pictures will show the paint, countertops and (possibly) flooring!
We are getting there!

So close, and yet.....you get the idea!

::The Second Stage::

2009-06-12T22:17:00.000-07:00

After moving out all of the stuff that was still in the house (which actually took a lot of time), we were able to move on to the demo stage!! That's most every one's favorite part!

Here are some pictures of this new phase:

wallpaper, buh-bye! it's already soooo much lighter!

Cabinets over peninsula torn down! Next photo is my dad working on putting them up in the garage for awesome storage! Thanks, dad!

built in hutch in nook torn out to make way for the new walk-in pantry:

Cabinets in Hallway torn out (also re-used in garage) to make way for new ones!

More pics to come! You won't believe the transformation!!

The BEFORE'S

2009-06-08T10:41:00.000-07:00

Here are some photos of our current project that has occupied my mind for more than 6 months. We are nearing the end phase now and you can read about what has been completed so far here.

You asked for them, so here they are:

Entryway.

Dark wood, wallpaper directly on top of drywall, teensy light, yellow textured glass window panes, brown tile floors (ceramic or terra cotta?).

Kitchen.

Dark wood cabinets, yellow tile counters with brown grout, yellow and almond colored appliances and brown-ish orange carpet on the floor.

Second view of kitchen.

Bar/counter area.

Can't see into family room without crouching down under cabinets.

[These kitchen pictures were mostly taken for the countertop people, so the angles aren't the best for getting the "whole picture", but good enough. :) ]

Nook area with built in hutch.

Family room.

yellow and gold grasscloth wallpaper, again, directly on the sheetrock, no ceiling lights, dark wood trim and beams.

Formal living and dining.

Sunken, no overhead lighting, heavy drapes over two large windows.

Dining.
achictectural detail on ceiling, step-up, dated glass light fixture.

2nd bath.
again, wallpaper directly over sheetrock, brass fixtures, faux marble countertops, single sink, carpeting in front of sink.

Master bath.
More wallpaper over sheetrock, brass fixtures, faux marble and carpeted floor.

Master bedroom.
dark drapery, white walls.

So there you have it! Check back tomorrow or the next day for some progress shots!

Easy Salad!!

2009-05-14T23:40:00.000-07:00

I had a few people ask for this recipe, so I thought I'd share it here:

Spinach Salad with Peaches & Smoked Gouda in a Honey Mustard Dressing
{really, that's pretty much the entire recipe...but I'll go into detail for ya anyway } :)

Ingredients:

Spinach
4 peaches, sliced
8 oz smoked Gouda cheese, cubed
green onions, thinly sliced
honey mustard dressing (the original recipe calls for Honey Dijon, but I am in love with Marie's Honey Mustard dressing. Find it in the refrigerated section of the produce department!!)

That's basically it! Assemble and toss with dressing. Serve Immediately! Delish!

Next time I will add toasted almonds because, well...I put toasted almonds in every salad I make. Extra nutrition and a little crunch makes everything better!

MELON SALAD

Ingredients:

1/3 cup honey
1 tablespoon sugar
1/2 cup orange juice (I used fresh squeezed, but any kind is fine)
3 Tbsp. lemon juice (fresh squeezed here, as well)
2 Tbsp. chopped fresh mint leaves
4 cups cantaloupe balls
2 cups honeydew melon balls
2 cups watermelon balls

Preparation:

In a small microwave-safe bowl, combine honey with sugar. Microwave on high power for 30 seconds; remove and stir. Microwave 30 seconds longer until sugar dissolves.
Stir and let stand for 10 minutes. Add orange juice, lemon juice, and mint leaves and mix well.
Place melon balls in large serving bowl and pour honey mixture over. Toss gently to coat and serve immediately or cover and refrigerate until serving time. (after you toss with the dressing, the sugars will draw out the liquid in the melon--so be aware, there will be a lot of juice! But I do think if you refrigerate the melon in the dressing for a while, the flavor is a lot better and more intense...just my two cents! And super cold melon is soooo refreshing!)

I hope you enjoy!

Easy Dinner Idea

2009-04-09T19:08:00.000-07:00

When I say easy, I mean EASY.

Everything I do has to be quick, simple and cheap. Especially lately. If you've noticed, my 'meal of the week' thing has been really sad.
:(

When I worked as a nanny one summer during high school, the family I worked for was very "granola" (as I called it). They ate organic food (which at the time, was not the thing 'du jour' as it is now), and they were mountain bikers/hikers/outdoors-y type people. One of the foods they had on hand for me to make for the kids was an all organic, all natural macaroni and cheese product called "Annies". I'd never heard of it before, but I made it and--oh my! I loved it! We had it nearly every day. Poor kids. But I've always remembered it and when I moved to California, I saw it in the grocery store (I never saw it in the store where I lived...and I never asked the family where they bought it. I thought that would have been nosey. lol) Anyways---I always have some on hand but I have been trying to make healthy and nutritious food for my family. I have come up with two AWESOME Annies pasta upgrades!

First, I eliminate the butter it calls for, like, two tablespoons. Or sometimes I will reduce it to one. Depending on my mood. Make the pasta as called for. (there are many different varieties, but I prefer any of the white cheddar kinds.)

Then, for the first variation, I sauteed onions and diced zucchini in a little olive oil until transluscent. Season with garlic powder and pepper. Sometimes I will throw in chili or chipotle chili powder for kick. Just a tad.

Mix the zucchini onion mixture into the pasta and sprinkle with shaved parmesan cheese. Serve immediatly.

The second variation is especially good for kids (or husbands) that refuse to eat vegetables. Or if your kids will only eat the "yellow cheese" instant pastas. This version takes a little more planning ahead, but it's still super easy.

Start by rosting a whole, half or quarter of a butternut or other squash. I put mine cut side down in a baking dish with about two tablespoons of water and bake for at least 30 minutes up to an hour. (You can also peel, cube and boil/steam your squash or steam it halved in the microwave, but I love how it turns out when you use the oven. any way works.) Remove the rind and mash one quarter of the squash. Cook your pasta and drain. Make the sauce according to the package and add the mashed squash. Stir until blended. Pour over pasta. Top with grated parmesan cheese and serve while hot. The squash makes the pasta and sauce extra creamy and richer tasting. I love the slight sweetness it adds, too.

So, give those a shot if you need a last minute or quick and healthy dinner idea. It's a great way to sneak in your vegetables if you have picky eaters. We love it!

Thank you Annies for making such awesome food that my family loves! What a great company, too!

Obsessed

2009-02-19T19:49:00.000-08:00

Most of you will think this is weird. And very 'Mr. Roper' [aka 70's].

But I can't help but LOVE----

VELVET WALPAPER!!!

I know. I'm a little crazy. But it just looks (and feels!) so opulent, elegant and yet totally young sassy---when done right, of course.

Tell me you don't love at least one of these...

Now if only it wasn't a bazillion dollars a roll.

hrmphh.

Took My Breath Away

2009-02-11T14:56:00.000-08:00

This is going to sound silly, but I saw a commercial for Kraftmaid cabinets the other day and the picture of this kitchen seriously stopped my heart.

Luckily, I have a DVR so I could rewind, pause and analyze every square inch of the completely stunning kitchen. Sad, yes. But completely enjoyable for me.

What do you think??

I am completely stuck on Hollywood Regency, 1920's to mid-century designs these days. Doesn't this kitchen just cry out for a misty, dewy eyed Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers romantic dance sequence or something?? I LOVE how the interior cabinets are painted a terracotta-y color and lit from within to warm up an otherwise stark white environment while coordinating with the island counter top and bringing out the warmer tones in the stunning (and oh-so-sparkly!) mosaic tile back splash/wall.

But, just not practical for me in this stage of life. I need more "child friendly" colors. But you best believe I'm stealing some little snippet for my someday, future kitchen.

By the way, I'm still waiting for comments on the 'Pay It Forward' post.... :)

Pay It Forward

2009-02-10T17:02:00.000-08:00

I guess I'll jump on this....

This is how it works..... The first 3 people leave a comment on this post will receive a hand made gift from me during this year. When and what will be a surprise. BUT, in order for you to leave a comment on my blog, you have to post this on your blog first. (That means that sometime during this year you will send a gift to 3 people as well.) Get it? So, the first 3 people to comment on this post will be the lucky ones! {or not, depending on the item ;) } Good Luck!

{Sneak Peek}

2009-02-06T11:44:00.001-08:00

I am working on a top-secret 'yet to be named' project.

Here is a little preview......

Do you like the color/pattern combos?

{can you tell I'm into the whole Citrine and Lagoon color scheme right now??}

I will keep you filled in as things progress........ :D

~A Formal Affair~

2009-02-03T18:15:00.000-08:00

Tony and I had a black tie awards banquet for his work last Saturday. It was really fun to get dressed up and all fancy-schmancy.

Can I just say that it is so hard to find modest and modern formal gowns these days that don't cost a bazillion dollars. But after a lot of searching, I finally found one at Macy's. AND it was on sale! AND I had coupon--er--excuse me-- a 'Savings Pass'. Sounds much more sophisticated, doesn't it? I ended up getting this dress for around $75!! Originally around $250. A 'Super Dress Coo'. I was way excited with my find. It wasn't the color I was hoping to find, but it worked out well. It was a platinum silver column style dress with ruffles cascading all the way to the floor. I wore light aqua, peridot green and bright turquoise jewelry with a silver clutch and silver shoes.

The only problem with the dress was that it had short sleeves. I felt (this is just a personal issue) that it was seasonally inappropriate, being that the event was in January. Hindsight, maybe it wouldn't have been that bad. (Heaven forbid I wear short sleeves in January...) So I took on the task making some sort of arm covering. I decided on this pattern. "Very Easy", it says. Well, maybe if you have a degree in fashion design and construction. It truly wasn't that hard, but confusing. I've never had any formal sewing training so it was hard for me to muddle through the directions in parts. My mom helped me over the phone as best as she could without actually seeing the pattern or the directions. The most difficult part was the material I picked-- an organza type material. The seams kept pulling out (fraying) and actually happened on the collar part while I was wearing it that night. Luckily, it didn't show under my arm. The only way I could solve it was to glue some of the seams with special fabric glue, which made them stiff and pucker-y. Grr. But I did what I had to do. And it worked just fine. (Aside from the ripping seams!) :)

Here is a not so lovely picture of us as we were literally running out the door, 30 minutes late. It's bad of me and it has bad flash reflection, but oh well:

For my next failed craft, I tried to make a coordinating bracelet.

A while ago, I saw this project idea on Micheals.com that looked super cool and unique and most importantly, easy! I banked it in my memory for some occasion and figured that now was the perfect time to try it. So I decided to give it a go. I got some gorgeous ribbon for Christmas that would go perfectly with my dress so I went to Michaels to get the supplies. I found the wooden bangles on sale for $1 and I was pumped! I actually bought a few to save for future projects. So as I progressed into the craft, the glue I used took too long to dry--it would just lift off of the bracelet, not adhering at all. So I had to use the glue gun, which made it kinda bumpy and not flat on the surface. And the bangle I chose was a teensy bit too wide for the ribbon I had so I had to try and cover the edges with another ribbon, but the only one I had that matched was too thin. I used it anyway. And, for the record, it's not as easy as it looks to glue straight ribbon into a circular shape. It ended up looking really 'homemade' so I thought I would add some jewels for sparkle and maybe help to distract from the wrinkles and bumpy ugliness. Maybe a bad idea. My end result looks like something a 12 year old would make and probably love. Not really the look I was going for... To make matters worse, when I put it on my wrist, it was too small and nearly had to break my hand to remove it. So, I didn't even wind up wearing it. What a waste of time. But at least I learned some lessons. Sometimes it's just easier to buy something than make it yourself.

With posting this _hopefully successful_ project on the blog in mind, here are the photos I took of the different stages of the [[disastrous]] craft:

As I said in my first post on this blog, I promised to share my mistakes as well as my successes. So here you have it---honesty and complete rawness.

I continue to promise that I will always present you the truth---no matter how horrible the outcome. :D

I Finally Have A New 'Do!

2009-01-30T19:16:00.000-08:00

This is weird for my first "official' post, but it's definitely newsworthy. Well, at least for me it is. :)

My hair was in quite an awful state. It had been an embarrassingly long time since my last cut. I mean LONG time. I'm not sure if I have any before pics (I meant to take them yesterday) but my hair was down to the sway of my back and was so damaged at the bottom. Way too long. It was a kind of chocolate-y brown with golden highlights. So, I decided I needed a change...and I got one! I think I cut maybe, 7 or 8 inches off?? I should have measured. Anyway, a lot.

Here is the (awkward) picture of my new hair:"Look! No split ends! Yay!!"

Whatdaya think? Wait. Maybe I don't want to know. But I like it, and that's all that matters. Even though someone told me it looked "pink" in the sunlight. Direct quote. I won't name any names....

FIRST POST!

2008-01-27T14:04:00.000-08:00

This blog will hopefully be a window into all of the 'extracurriculars' that I enjoy.

You will see my successes as well as my, all too many and ever growing, mistakes.

I hope to inspire you and I hope, in return, you will inspire me.

I have many projects in the works so please stop by often and together we can share in creating something wonderful!