Object of Maya*ffection

2012-02-08T12:24:00.000-08:00

It's been AGES since I have participated in a WIWW post. ITs not because I walk around nekkid or anything, I just haven't been feeling "it". Not dressing like I THINK I should....feeling sloppy.....I KNOW y'all KNOW what I'm talking about!! I have these grand plans to organize my wardrobe so that I can just pick a completed ensemble every morning BUT my clothes are still in boxes! Anyway, onto what I wore......

Sunday - Church / Errands

Burn out Vest - Maurices
Black LS Tee - Target
Jeans - Maurices
Boots - Uggs

I did have on cute bracelets that you can't see here....and I know there are a million and one ways better to dress this outfit BUT I am in a slump.....SNAP me out of it!! Linking up with Lindsey

DOLLAR TREE Leopard Placemats

2012-02-07T12:50:00.000-08:00

I have been looking HIGH and low for place mats that are washable (ie take a damp sponge and clean them) BUT that are still thick enough to prevent heat spots from forming on the wood. WHAT is a girl to do?

Make her own OF COURSE!!!

Y'all know I LOVE me some leopard! When I found the leopard place mats at the Dollar Store I was STOKED! But the same problem as always...they were thin.....SO I bought the thicker (UGLY) ones and cut them to size.....

Glues the top of the ugly ones (with super glue also purchased at the Dollar Tree) and piled the cook books on the top to flatten them out and set the glue....

And VIOLA!!

I'm WILD about them!! If ya can't find it, son't be afraid to make it!!

Valentine's Day Decor

2012-02-05T20:17:00.000-08:00

I have gone with the more simple approach for Valentine's decorating this go-round.....My lil guy was asking when I was going to decorate for Valentine's Day and I didn't want to disappoint him.....

I got the felt hearts that are hanging from the twine after Christmas from Target for 90% OFF!! So I paid .10 for 3 hearts so I paid .30 for the major portion of the mantle decor!! See that heart next to the lantern? My lil guy drew that for me last year and I simply cut to size and placed in a free standing lucite frame.

Here was another after Christmas find (sadly only 1/2 off at Wal-Mart which made them .50 each) I KNEW they'd be perfect for V-day!! but this lil display needed something more....somehow a bottle of wine didn't seem cupcake appropriate...

ahhh...that's better! How about some pink lemonade? a cute lil cupcake card (form a pack of 6 found in Michael's Dollar Section) and conversation hearts (en español) that I put out year after year!! That's more like it!!

Sshhhh, my "pink lemonade" is actually water with a lil pink kool-aid!! I was shopping the house for items that would complete the vignette!

Tell me what YOU do for Valentine's day!!

Spa Nite with MY GIRL

2012-02-04T10:45:00.000-08:00

I wanted to do something special with my girl SO last nite I decided to have an at-home spa nite with my daughter. We did a facials....

At-home facial recipe: 1/2 a banana, 1 tbsp of honey and 2 tbsp of sour cream. Smash banana and add sour cream and honey....apply to face, leave on for 15 minutes and rinse.

NOW momma needed a lil something more.....my mask was different and made by The Body Shop and is a "Wise Woman" Intensive Firming Mask....I wanna combat aging!! It smells great and "plumps, firms and renews". I bought mine at TJ Maxx, Im sure at a discount!

Maya found a lip smoothing recipe in one of her teeny-bopper mags, and we needed raw sugar.....THANK YOU Starbux.

Here I am applying mine (I had carmex on too while I was grinding the raw sugar into my lips)....

Then Maya did my toes.....I already had the blue.....

And she added the silver Zebra from an "AS SEEN ON TV Nail Art kit" Salon Express

We put cucumbers on our eyes....

And my lil guy wanted in on the fun....

Momma got in on the action too (RIGHT after I added the cukes to the kiddies eyebrows)

The dog took this opportunity to keep a close eye on me.....watch her.....

Did you SEE THAT?!?!?

She snatched the cucumbers right off my eyes!! Luckily she was delicate and didn't hurt me or bite me....I was laughin' my booty off!!

I did my fingernails. I have had these "limited edition" skully Salon effects nail strips from Sally Hansen that I have been wanting to use.....

So I combined them with a frenchie....

LOVE the black and white look! Classy with a twist of rocker!! Have a GREAT weekend y'all!

I (USED) to Hate Pink

2012-02-03T07:55:00.000-08:00

I was always the girl that HATED pink (simply because every other girl in the world was gaga over it! I NEVER want to be like EVERYone else). But I began to realize I like the deeper hue of pink - magenta if you will. I also have come to find the color looks pretty good on me (or so I've been told). SO I have cautiously been adding pink to my wardrobe....I decided to pull a few pieces and show ya what I've added so far!

L to R: Romper from Target via GW (I know this was last summer and I saw a few of you wearing it and lookin' fab), Dress from Target - a great year round piece....wear with a turtleneck, long sleeve tee or collared shirt and tights with boots for winter OR add a sweater over the top FOR spring, layer a tank under and cute lil wedges, a darker hue of pink - burgundy velvet like blazer - SO CUTE with a fun tee underneath! Lastly a vintage wool skirt that is 3/4 length on me (I am 5'2") in that FAB magenta color!

Skirt still needs to be pressed (and spot is actually the flash).

Have a pink-a-licious day!!

Baby Lips

2012-01-26T14:39:00.000-08:00

I'm sure you have seen a few people in blogland talking about "Baby Lips" by Maybelline. You may even have seen the commercials on tv or the advertisements in the magazines.....

Remember a couple of weeks ago I blogged about my finds from Target? This was one of them....

The NEW Baby Lips.....the 2 pack featured above were $5.99.....the Blue is a clear semi-transparent gloss in "Quenched" which has a fresh scent...like fresh squeezed citrus. The pink is called Pink Punch (reminds me of Pink Lemonade) and has s sheer hint of pink color when applies (I personally like it surprisingly enough as I usually HATE pink BUT I think this shade would be flattering on EVERYONE).....

Here is is on me.....

And here is a full face shot WITH my daily make-up.....See, a faint hint of flattering color.....

Close up of the pink-y color

Now for the review....as I said, I've been using it for 2 weeks and so far so good. My lips are soft and un-chapped....the texture is a lil different and took some getting used to (I usually use Carmex from the tube) and while it smells good and fresh, there is ZERO flavor. The consistency is almost waxy....BUT I'd definetley recommend giving them a try! Maybe you can split the pack with a friend! Have you tried any new products that you recommend?

Kardashian Kolor Kraze

2012-01-24T18:24:00.000-08:00

Last night was at home pedi night.....After soaking my feet in a dish of warm water (I DID spare you THAT photo!!). I used this handi-dandi pedi block I picked up at Big Lots over the summer. This is the best invention EVAH!! You simply "sand" away on your damp foot....it's made by hoof feet (that name KILLS ME). AND it was only $1.00 - S T E A L!!!

Remember back in December when I posted about the Kardashian book and nails colors I picked up? I chose this one.....

The Color is "Listen to your mom-ager". A FAB royal blue (which just so happens to match the new highlights I got last week.....see them in the pic? Not an entirely flattering pic of me as it was last night and I'm battling a crappy cold....They are hair extensions that are "melted" onto my real hair....they last several weeks. (so I'm told)

Ta-Da!! Here I am RAWKIN' "Listen to your mom-ager" on my toes AND a french on my fingers. As I look at this photo I realize my hands look OLD (Insert sad face here). Do y'all have any fab tips to make my hands look young again?!?!?

Is it just me OR do we notice a theme here?!?! Have a BLUE Tuesday :)

Week in Photo's - Skinny Girl, Pearls, Diapers and More

2012-01-22T17:04:00.000-08:00

I haven't done a WIWW post in ages (not because I haven't gotten dressed, it's because I haven't taken any photo's). I haven't worked on any projects (except the one you're about to see below) and haven't really reviewed any new products! Oh, and I have this really craptastic cold! So I figured I'd share my week in pics!

While at Wal-Mart picking up a few things today, I walked past THIS display:

WHA? WHA? My girl Bethenny Frankel (ex-Real Housewives of NY star, Proprietress of the Skinny Girl Margarita and NOW cosmetics!!). I had no idea she had a cosmetic and skin care line out....Has anyone tried it yet? I would love to try it BUT I think the price point is a bit on the high side....%.97 for plumping lip gloss, 9.97 for body scrub, 6.97 for tinted facial moisturizer....ok, I guess the price point isn't high BUT I haven't read any reviews on the line yet and I don't want to waste any money or have more crap lying around....SO, if you have tried it, PLEASE, PLEASE tell me what you think!!

One of my girlfriends and her hubby are adopting a baby boy (SO HAPPY FOR THEM!! CONGRATS guys!!) and the shower is in a few weeks. They are doing a jungle theme in the baby's room, so it's only natural that she would carry theme on to the shower. She asked me to help her make a Diaper cake....I've never made one, so we googled what we needed and gave it a shot. Here's our version:

I think it came out pretty darn CUTE!! Can you see the ribbon is tiger-esque? This theme is right up my alley!! More pics of decor to follow as the shower nears!!

I consider myself to be a lil crafty and that has DEFINETLEY transcends to my kidlets too! Here my lil guy is making the Solar System out of sheets of foam (thank you Nana and Grandpa). And yes, don't you always wear a fire hat while creating?!?!

The very smallest version of WIWW! LOL! I LOVE me some arm candy and if it's pearls - EVEN BETTER!! See that bracelet in the center? I made it!! It's kinda fun and earthy! I made it over the summer and never wore it (NOT sure why because I have worn it TWICE this week alone!!).

Hope y'all have a great week! I'd love to see what you've been up to!!

I dont know what to call this post

2012-01-20T07:16:00.000-08:00

Sometimes life isn't what we expect it to be....there are bumps along the journey of life and we are taken in all kinds of directions. Along the way you meet people who come into your life, some go as fast as they come and others stay....those that stay, you know are your friends. Sometimes friendships form in the most unlikely of ways, but the most surprising and pleasant....I have that. Despite our busy lives and the opposite directions we have gone....we still keep in touch and make time for one another. We recently met for lunch and this friend so surprised me.....

Yes, those are boxes from Coach! I have to tell you I secretly hoped they weren't really gifts from Coach because that would be far too extravagant....and I struggle accepting gifts of that magnitude. My friend wrote this note:

Every woman should have
-Something Bling!
-Something Wild!
and something for that "little black dress". Happy New year. All the best in 2012!

Thank you kind friend! Your selflessness and kindness won't soon be forgotten. You are one in a million!!

It's MY turn.....I've been tagged

2012-01-16T14:09:00.000-08:00

One of my new found fave-y bloggers Makaila http://distinctlym.blogspot.com/ tagged me

and the game is 11 FUN facts about me!! Of course each game has rules.....and here they are:

The Rules

1. You must post the rules. (and link up who tagged you)

2. Post eleven fun facts about yourself on the blog post.

3. Answer the questions the tagger set for you in their post, and then create eleven new questions to ask the people you've tagged.

4. Tag eleven people and link them on your post

5. Let them know you've tagged them!

WOW-O-WOW! Where do I start? I feel the need to tell ya stuff you may not know, I feel like it should be something cool and in the end, it'll just be fun things that come to mind while typing this!!

1) Every time I get home I must wash my hands....that way any of the germs I contracted while being out are gone and not in my house! My fave soaps are the anti-bacterial kind from Bath & Body....

Warm Vanilla Sugar is ALWAYS my go-to fragrance for moisturizers, body spray, home fragrance, hand sanitizers, etc.....

When I am feeling a lil adventurous I get Caribbean Escape - a vacation in a bottle

While looking at the website I found this one - Fresh Picked Lemons.....I'm gonna have to try that one - have you tried it? Sounds delishly fresh!

2) I prefer COKE to Pepsi.....Coke is so much sweeter and to me has a kinda cinnamon-y taste

3) I have ONE sibling....a sister who's younger....sadly we aren't as close as we used to be OR as I would like to be (If you're reading this Steph...Love ya!)

4) I LOVE LOVE LOVE leopard.....the "classy" leopard. I hear laughs already - the non-print animals lovers are like what? Classy Leopard? Um yeah, there is classy leopard!! Y'all know the diff diff!

5) I prefer shorter hair on me.....funny enough, when I look at pics it seems every winter I manage to grow my hair to shoulder length and then come summer hack it off!

Jan 2012

Dec 2011

Feb 2010

Oct 2011

Jan 2011

March 2011

June 2011

Tell me, which look do YOU think suits my face best? Longer (shoulder length) or short and sassy? I am trying to grow it out PAST my shoulders but I just can't stand the in-between length.

6) I Heart pearls....earrings, necklaces, bracelets, home accents.....I think they are CLASSIC and glammy!

Pearl Bracelets

Pearls and Feathers (I made these)

Pearl Jewelry

Pearl Decorative Balls and VIntage Tiffany Pearl Ad

Pearl Candle Ring

A Pearl "Acorn" Made by Moi

A WIP (Work In Progress) my pearly cell phone cover - inspired by Pinterest.

7) I ALWAYS want to appear like I have it together BUT I have been told I do NOT have a "Poker Face"

8) I am finding that the things I used to not like I am LOVING! For example - skully and crossbones, the color MAGENTA (I have ALWAYS hated pink BUT magenta is so HAPPY)

9) I always carry a bottle of water with me AND have one on my night stand

10) When I was a kid I HATED my name (Janae - pronounced like Renee BUT with a "J" obviously). Teachers could never say it correctly, there was never any cool stickers or toothbrushes or keyrings with my name on it...but NOW, I LOVE my name! I think it's a perfect fit!

11) I work best under pressure.....I like to think I am a planner BUT when I get a head start, I land up falling behind!

Wow, that was easier than I thought it would be! Sorry for the picture heavy post - I was on a ROLL! (Plus I think a post with pics is so much more fun!)

NOW, to answer the questions to Makaila!

That was kinda silly and fun! Alright... here's my questions from M:

01. Do you consider yourself creative? YES!! I LOVE to create, invent and use things in different ways! I love using all sorts of mediums - paper, paints, glues, jewelry, etc Blog world and Pinterest are such AMAZING sources for inspiration!

02. What is your proudest accomplishment? My proudest accomplishment are my Children.....they amaze me on a day to day basis with the things they say and do!

03. Would you ever met a blog friend in real life? ABSOLUTELY!!

04. Do you have a "Bucket List"? Sadly, I don't BUT I have thought about making one - I SO should make one.....

05. What actress do you secretly covet a body part from? That's a tough one....I sat here giving some thought to that question and ya know what, there isn't one.....I of course would like to be thinner and more fit BUT I CAN MAKE THAT HAPPEN!!

06. Truth Or Dare? Dare

07. Botox or All-Natural? All Natural (Although I do waiver with getting botox.....)

08. What is your greatest characteristic? This is another tough one...my best characteristic - I am creative. I see things with a unique eye. My friends are always asking my help when it comes to decorating or creative inspiration - I LOVE that!!

09. How many different cities have you lived in? 6 (CHICAGO - Home Sweet Home, Burnsville -MN, Minneapolis - MN, Plano - IL, Winnebago - IL and Aurora, IL)

10. Peanut Butter and Chocolate, or Peanut Butter and Jelly? Peanut Butter and Chocolate

11. World Peace or A Million Bucks? I feel like I am supposed to say "World Peace" BUT lets face it folks, that's a really lofty wish that is far less likely to happen than me getting a million bucks. Hope y'all don't judge - that was a hard one to answer BUT I should answer honestly, right?

WOW! M, those were hard questions!! Ok, now onto my list of people I am tagging:

http://laviepetite.blogspot.com/

http://leilasmom.blogspot.com/
http://shoeobsessedone.blogspot.com/

And HERE are your 11 Questions:

1) Do you believe in "movie" love?

2) What is your favorite activity to do with your children?

3) Your favorite lipstick color is....

4) Favorite City?

5) Favorite Healthy Snack?

6) What is YOUR favorite Blog?

7) What do you want to be when you grow up?

8) TV Show that you secretly watch BUT hate admitting to?

9) What is ONE thing all your friends and family say about you?

10) Popcorn or Peanuts?

11) Thin Mints or Samoas?

WIWW Holiday Edition

2012-01-12T17:38:00.000-08:00

I really really wasn't going to post these because I said to heck with it, the season of red has come to pass (ok, well, there is still Valentine's day).....BUT the tree in this background is a dead giveaway it's Christmas! Macy's on State Street! I haven't taken any current WIWW pics and miss linking up with Lindsey at The Pleated Poppy http://thepleatedpoppy.com/blog/

WIWW:

Fur Vest - JcPenny
Plaid Shirt - Target Black Friday Special
Black Tank - Nordi Rack

I have to say I really HEART the tie look! At first I felt a lil awkward wearing it BUT by the end of the day I was digging it! The tie even inspired these corny poses (ok, truth be told I Like the poses!!).

WIWW:
Black Lace Tuxedo Style Shirt - Can't remember
Plaid Tie - Thrifted
Jeans - Can't remember
Boots - Uggs

Ok, here is a more current pic with my NEW bangs! I L O V E this skully shirt (oddly enough I am NOT a fan of red and every outfit has red - go figure!).

WIWW:

Skully Shirt - Norma Komali - Wal-Mart of all places!!

Jeans - IDK

57 to 26 and Target Treasures

2012-01-12T16:32:00.000-08:00

Um ok, I know I am in the Midwest and it is ONLY January BUT yesterday it was gorgeous and sunny and 57.....

TODAY.....

What the what what?!?!?!? How did it go from 57 to 26 in a matter of hours? Well, what does one do when there's a winter weather advisory? Go shopping of course!! (ok, not really, I was an an appointment that I could not cancel and made the best of it by running to Targét afterwards. I picked up a couple great shirts and some cutie winter boots (for another post) and these.....

(Targét brand "Emergen-C", Loreal's new line of polish in "satin sheets", Nicole by OPI "Glitter in my stocking", Maybelline Baby Lips ,People Style Watch and some Blingeratti make-up brushes.....

These fab blingtastic babies are made by ELF (Eyes, Lips, Face) and look so fun! Even if they suck, they will stand tall and proud in my make-up display!!

Babylips by Maybelline...I saw these at the store a few weeks ago and wanted to try them and then last night while blog surfing I found another blogger who had given a review on them SO, I decided to give them a whirl! Their stats look pretty good:

82% VISIBLY less dress
94% Less Rough lips
77% more supple
77% better looking lips

AND they come in a two pack so you can share with your lil princess or BFF! My flavors are quenched (which is a clear balm) and Pink Punch (which is a pale pink hue)

I will let y'all know if they are any good!

I have been looking for a pale-y white polish with sprinkles (gold flecks, glitter, etc) and haven't had much luck...when I saw Satin Sheets by Loreal I thought it might be just what I was looking for...I'll review and post later.....and Glitter In My Stocking was FUN and yup-yup, it was on clearance!!

"emergen-c {cuz momma feels a lil something coming on}, Smart Water {if it's good enough for Jen Aniston, its good enough for me, LOL!!}

Ciao! for now....I'm off to indulge in bloggy-blogs and my People Style! Have a great nite! Stay warm and safe!

Pretty Pretty Princess

2012-01-08T17:36:00.000-08:00

Do y'all remember that game? Its a game after my own heart! A girl can NEVER have too many accessories! (Although SOME may beg to differ). Have you heard of Birchbox? I've seen it on a few blogs and it looked SO fun! What it is - per THEIR website

Discover Beauty Better™

Four to five hand-picked deluxe samples delivered to your door for $10 per month.

Here you will see photo's from my last months Birchbox (I know, late in posting!). WHO doesn't love getting mail that ISN'T a bill?!?! Visit their website here https://www.birchbox.com/ IF ya decide you want to try it for a month, let me know so I can get in on the refer a friend points (which YOU can do too once you become a member!!).

This very funny pic of me is showing my girls the sample of Joer Moisturizing lipgloss in Birchbox pink. I really don't ever wear pink lip gloss and even though this one looked BRIGHT pink it was a gorgeous complimentary shade that was sheer with a hint of pink! So awesome that I think I may order a fill size one (and the good news is its FREE shipping).

My last blog post was all about eating well in the new year....beautiful from the inside out! Now we're working on beautiful from the outside out! By proper prepping.....A GREAT make-up job starts with great brushes. I know it may seem a lil crazy to invest such big bucks in something you can't apply and see BUT it does make a difference in the application. Pictured below are brushes from the bare minerals line.

They were worth EVERY penny as I have had them for over 3 years. I started to notice that they felt hard and bristle-y when I used them....So I got to thinking it may just be time to clean them. In the past I have used Johnson's Baby Magic baby wash ( I just LOVE that smell) but didn't have any on hand. So I used dishsoap and it worked like a CHARM!! How to? So glad you asked....I put a dollop of soap in the palm of my hand, dampened the brush and began swirling in the palm of my hand (SO WISH I HAD TAKEN PICS OF THIS PROCESS). You will begin to see all the make-up coming off....gingerly rinse the soap off. Swipe across a paper towel a few times and lay flat to dry (you will notice I placed the Large Kabuki brush standing up as its so full). Let dry at least 24 hours before use. WOW!! Smooth and soft again! Share your fave beauty tip with me - I'd LOVE to try something new! And don't forget, if YOU want to sign up for Birchbox, leave me your email and I will "refer-a-friend".

Fit and Healthy

2012-01-05T17:09:00.000-08:00

A new year always brings new promises....resolutions....a fresh start. This year I did NOT make any resolutions...BUT what I did decide was the holidays are over so there aren't any more reasons to overindulge (NOT that the holidays are carte blanche for over eating, it's just a fact). Today I hit the grocery stores (Wal-Mart and Aldi) and came back with this......

This is the beginning of better eating for me and my family! I am not in the healthy "KNOW", I just have picked up a few things here and there, or have found things that work for me that I want to share!

1) Have SMART snacks on hand at all times! As you can see, these are prepackaged items that I can throw in my purse for those days I am out running errands and am tempted by Milky Way or McDonalds. All these are under 100 calories per serving. For example, The Chocolatey pretzel bar is the PERFECT combo of sweet and salty and comes in at 90 calories. The Strawberry fruit strips are all natural dried fruit and come in at 40 calories - literally the perfect snack on the go! In my house I make a big bag of popcorn because EVERYBODY says they're gonna eat some and after a few pieces they're done, which leave me to finish the bag....with these single serving "mini" bags, they are exactly 100 calories and help curb that overeating tendency we sometimes have. The sliced green apples and yogurt are more of a "splurge" as they are $1.00 each BUT are also only 90 calories....for me personally I am more inclined to eat fruit if I don't have to go thru all the prep work of washing....these are quick and handy!

2) Make WISE choices and substitute when you can.
What this means is choosing skim over 2%...this will save you 40 calories per one cup serving. Grabbing the multi-grain waffles vs. the homestyle waffles saves you 40 calories per serving as well (example for 2 multi-grain waffles its' 140 calories and you are getting your "grains". For 2 homestyle waffles its 180 calories). While at the store I saw this bag of Brown Sugar Blend - perfect for oatmeal or baking....it's a mix of brown sugar and sugar substitute....I expected this to be lower in calories vs. brown sugar BUT when doing my "research" it was actually 7/5 calories MORE for the blend per 1/2 tsp serving. SO, be conscious of the labels.....what you may think is better may not be.

3) Don't be afraid to experiment.....here are the ingredients I plan to mix to make my own "trail mix".....natural almonds, craisins and semi-sweet chocolate morsels.....this will be for the days I want a lil sweet treat.

4) Eat your fruits and veggies! Easy, right? Not so much....I don't enjoy the prep.....the cleaning, washing, cutting, etc. Below are some from the vine tomatoes (they even SMELL fresh) and cilantro to make pico de gallo.. I hate cauliflower BUT will eat it this way......the seasoning over takes the cauliflower.....nice fresh alternative to salsa.

Obviously the amounts will be to your liking (I like a lil more cilantro)....chop up the ingredients....approx. 1 cup of cauliflower, 1 1/2 cups of tomatoes and 3/4 cup of cilantro.....add salt, lime juice and garlic powder to taste. This of course is best served with tortillas BUT make your snack count....load 7 tortilla chips with the pico and your craving for something delish and salty will be cured!

5) Get Beautiful from the inside out.....I'm sure you have heard the old adage "you are what you eat"....when yo fill your body with crappy fast food, you bloat, are sluggish and just look worn down. Did you know blueberries have antioxidants that are great for your skin?

Go to Jillians website here http://www.jillianharris.com/post/food-fridays-greens-smoothie for her great skin smoothie recipe found here.....smoothies are a great way to sneak that spinach into your diet....I will edit and adjust as I didn't get the carrot juice.....almost most ingredients are found in this smoothie I picked up at Aldi.

Slice up some cukes and place on your eyes while laying down for a few minutes....this will help with the dark circles under your eyes (In addition to rest and cukes, drinking 8-10 glasses of water per day is also said to help eliminate those dark circles).

Those are my tips to eating better and being a better you!! START today! Don't make excuses ( next week, after I go to the gym, etc)....the small changes you make TODAY will add up over time!

NAILed it

2011-12-30T16:54:00.000-08:00

I have done "fun" (ie outta the norm nails for the holidays this year and I have posted the green ones but not the others). This color should be called "Starbux Green"! Isn't it a PERFECT match?!?!

The color is actually called "Going Green" by Sally Hansen Xtreme Wear. I LOVE this line of polish - great colors....pretty quick dry and lasts for days without chipping. I couldn't just leave the green alone (as if it wasn't fun enough) I had to add the leopard spots!!

The next fun look is a combo of Polish strips and polish. I LOVE the nails strips - lasts really long on toesies but just not as long on fingers so I reserve these for pedi's.

The color on my toes is Designer...De Better from OPI's Muppet Line. It's a gorgeous sandy gold color with glittery flecks of orange and gold. On the big toes is Sally Hansen's Salon Effects Nail Polish Strips in "Misbehaved".

This pic is a lil hard to see the featured nails design BUT it was a simple one...I found it on Pinterst back in October and KNEW I wanted to try it out! White polish by Pure Ice called "Superstar". On my ring fingers I added red thin stripes with silver glitter on the top of the red stripe for a Candy Cane effect. I didn't want to do all the nails as I thought that might be overwhelming....and I came to discover I LOVE white polish!

While out shopping with my girlfriends the day after Christmas I was in a Kardashian mood apparently! It all started when my friend Jenny was on a search for the Kardashian polish line by Nicole by OPI (Wal-Mart is the only store that carries their line). While helping Jenny find her colors I found I loved a few as well! My love affair for the Kardashian's began when I had a dream Kim was doing my make-up and we were BFF's/ SO ever since then I have had this weird love affair with the Kardashians!! While at Barnes & Noble I picked up the girl's fiction novel "Dollhouse". I will let ya know if it's any good once I have a chance to read it!!

"Follow me on Glitter" which is actually the color I am wearing in this photo

"My empire.....My rules" In this pick it looks taupe BUT in real life its more like a putty grey

"Listen to your MOMager" is this FAB glitter blue!

Hope y'all have FAB New Years Eve with an even better 2012! CHEERS!

To Bang or not to Bang

2011-12-27T15:45:00.000-08:00

That was the question!! I have wanted bangs for the past year!! Every time I ask someone's opinion they say "no, don't get the bangs" So I haven't gotten the bangs.....BUT today I was looking for a change....So I GOT THE BANGS!! NOW, I want y'all to weigh in...Here is the before pic.....

BEFORE:

AFTER:

Which look do you like the best? With bangs or without?

2011 Christmas Home Tour

2011-12-19T10:21:00.000-08:00

WELCOME!! I am linking up with the Nester http://www.thenester.com/2011/12/2011-christmas-tour-of-homes-2.html. Upon entering, you will find our stockings hanging on the rail with care (we don not have a fireplace therefore, no mantel...first house in 7 yrs without a mantel - sad). The house is a bi-level from the early 70's. I found the hooks at the thrift for $2.90 and KNEW they'd be perfect for hanging the stockings with care. Three of the stockings are handmade by my mom and a tradition in our household!

Deery rests here until I can mount her on the appropriate board (I will be doing a post on her soon...this is her made-over state)

For now she lives here under this arrangement......

I want there to be special treats and surprises in each corner of my home....this arrangement for instance can be found in the bathroom.....Makes a great "night light"

I made it from branches from the tree out back (I gave them a light spritz of white paint), birch logs found on the curb last summer, silver eucalyptus (my fave smell on dried plants) which I found at the Dollar Tree - YAY! Dollar Tree!

You will also find these "prints" in the bathroom....(see previous posts for more info in the "carnivale" bathroom)...I simply switched out the center print for one I printed off-line...LOVE the vintage look!

I recently put this window frame in the bathroom as Christmas decor took over its usual space in the dining room.....

For this corner of the living room, I simply used wrapping paper to cover a framed piece of art I have up and switched out the lampshade from burlap to something a lil more refined for Santa!!

BEFORE:

AFTER:

Here she is in all her GLORY!! My BEAUTIFUL white tree in the initial stages of decor! (here I am actually showcasing the evolution of the "coffee table" to read more about that visit previous posts)

Here is how I adorned the "coffee table" with various finds from the thrifts, things I had on hand, made or found in nature.

WHO goes there? Why its a cute lil owl bank from the thrift that I got for .90! I am calling this look Chic Winter wonderland......

The small silver frame contains a vintage dictionary page with the definition of a poinsettia as well as a picture...

Here is the tree at night...all aglow.....

and trimmed with presents. Do you see the pink "binding" ribbon with the flower? That is actually a belt my daughter wore when she was a wee-bit.

Silver tray wreath inspired by Hammers and Highheels pics from the Bachmans idea house in Minneapolis....

The dining room tree....Eat Drink Be Merry!

I hung vintage mugs on the branches.....

Santa Baby, don't forget about me this year....I've been good!!

WIWW

2011-12-17T10:53:00.000-08:00

Iam linking up (late) with Linds at the Pleated Poppy http://thepleatedpoppy.com/2011/12/what-i-wore-wednesday-48/for WIWW....check her out - lots of FUN ideas on what to wear!

The picture stinks...I could point out a million flaws BUT I will still to the "outfit"....

Flannel Plaid - Wal-Mart Jan 2011 My FAV go to on the days I want to be warm and cozy!
Hydraulic Jeans (capri's) - Maurices 2010
Grey Leg warmers - made by me (with the sewing part done by mom - thanks mom!!) inspired by Nicole http://nicole-blissfullyblessed.blogspot.com/2011/10/diy-cashmere-leg-warmers.html Check her out - so cute and such GREAT style!
Boots - Coach

I will have you know, I got a compliment while sitting at Starbucks on my "legwarmers"...give them a shot - so EASY! Maybe just maybe you will be lucky enough to find a cashmere sweater too! Off to see what y'all wore! Happy Saturday!

Snapshots of Christmas Cheer

2011-12-14T12:45:00.000-08:00

I can't believe Christmas is only a week and a half away! Where did the holiday season go? I have to admit, I have been feeling a lil scroog-y this year (for personal reasons) and not quite my Martha Stewart-ish self. BUT the show must go on, right?!?! Here is the tree in all her glory!

One each side of the tv buffet are these shelving units (I SO WANT to paint them, and have for a LONG time BUT some parts are particle board and I worry they won't hold the paint well).

It's hard to decorate these shelves because I feel like the items have to flow AND I still want them to coordinate with my decor. On the top is my assortment trees, tissue paper, metal, ribbon and beaded. On the top shelf the tree assortment continues along with a snowman made by my lil guy out of styro balls.
The middle contains assorted Christmas balls and a jar of candles for those impromptu parties...and the last shelf reminds us of the reason for the season....

I have displayed a glass manger set, a vintage celluloid manger set a statue of mary and baby jesus and a frame with the words "let earth receive her king"....

Cute lil snowman, no? All his accessories are made from alphabet glitter letters the kids cut to mimic eyes, nose, mouth and even a corncob pipe!

On the other side is the more whimsical bookcase....I printed the top image out form some clipart I found on Pinterst.....the second shelf contains a vintage Chipmunks Christmas record album, my fun lime green owl and a tiered stand (that was featured in a fall post with pinecones and leaves) full of glass ornaments...

and the bottom shelf has books, a frames christmas card (some of you may recognize this!!) framed wrapping paper, a tree cookie cutter and a lil silver tree candy dish from Pottery Barn (that I got at the thrift)

Lastly you will find my letter to Santa :

Holiday Preview

2011-12-12T17:28:00.000-08:00

Last night out advent calendar activity was hot cocoa and marshmallows....So I pulled out the holiday mugs.....

Picked these BAD BIRDS up at Wal-Mart (these are SO GOOD - like sinfully good and I don't like the classic easter peeps)

Don't they look cute swimming in the cups of cocoa?

While perusing blogland I came across this FAB wreath on Hammers and High Heels Blog....this wreath was in the Bachmans idea house....when I saw it I KNEW I had to make my own version....

So in a few weeks I procured these trays from the thrift (I did have a few of the trays but not enough and I was being thrifty and not willing to pay more than $1.99 per tray)

See the chalkboard tray? That was the same one that sported the turkey last month!

Here is the tree in our dining room....traditional in the sense there are colored lights...food was the theme for this tree. I used a metal Eat, Drink Be Merry sign for the topper...LOVE the non-traitional topper!

I found these cute vintage Santa mugs at the thrift....I didn't need another mug BUT these were too cute to pass up....They look great on the tree - so glad I got them!

Here's a lil canvas I made last year with a vintage frosty the snowman book page.....see them looking in the bakery window? Such a cute image!!

Here is the shelf in the kitchen...outfitted for cocoa days! A jar of marshmallows, candy canes, cocoa and white Santa mugs!

I am linking up here http://www.jenniferrizzo.com/2011/12/welcome-to-holiday-housewalk-party.html stop by and check out all the fab holiday decor!

My grown up Christmas List

2011-12-11T21:18:00.000-08:00

DO you remember making Christmas lists as a kid? I do! I'd circle the items and dog ear the catalog....and we were lucky enough to always get what we wanted (thanks Mom and Dad!!). As a grown up, the holidays aren't about me anymore, it's about my kidlets now BUT that doesn't mean I can't make a Mommy wish list, right? Some of these things are pretty outrageous BUT fun to "shop" for anyway!!

R&Em Handbag, Fur Duffle Bag - Macy's

SO fun!! I am totally digging fur this season!

COACH POPPY PATENT PUSHLOCK TOTE

$398.00

LOVE the classic navy with the twist of patent!

COACH CHELSEA PATENT LEATHER TOTE

$328.00

COACH is ALWAYS a classic! LOVE this peacock color!

NEW! R&Em Handbag, Sequin Tote - Macy's $98.00

Sterling Silver Engravable Signet Ring in Vintage Design $32.00 with a letter "J" ONLY

channel birthstone bracelet $99.95 RED ENVELOPE

Vincenza Gold Smoky Quartz & Mother-of-Pearl Skull Ring

Retail Value: $415.00

QVC Price: $253.00

Clearance Price:

$199.00

Shipping & Handling: $8.22

How about some chocolate?!?! As in the form of NO calorie Chocolate diamonds?!?!

WEWOOD 'Date' Wood

Watch - Nordstrom's $119.00

Uggs Classic Short in Grey

Ugg Rylan in Celestial.....SO CUTE! Like a slipper BUT a shoe!

Uggs Classic Camo Sparkle

I ♥ these A LOT!! Sparkle and leopard looking!!

A Starbuck's gift card is ALWAYS a FAB gift! The gift that keeps on giving!!

iphone! I think I'm ready for this BAD BIRD!! Any feedback y'all? The thing that holds me back is the touch screen texting.....

Off to explore Pinterest (I'm sure there will be plenty of fab prezzy ideas on there too!). Lemme know what's on your grown up Christmas list this year!

ps, sorry about the crazy layout....new for me and still trying to figure it out!

The elves have been busy....

2011-12-09T11:04:00.000-08:00

And by elves, I mean me!! Last weekend I went to Bath & Body for some holiday scented soap and mini hand sanitizers....I fell in love with the Christmas line of the sani-holders, particularly the one with the lil jingle bells around the top. It was $3.50....not awfully expensive BUT when put into perspective, that is the cost of a hand soap...so I opted for the hand soap for the bathroom and picked up a .50 pink glitter holder (KNOWING I could make my own as I already had the jingle bells on hand). So that's just what I did....

I started with these....vintage bells, Apple Wreath pocket bac (as I read that I am surprised it says apple because it smells like pine to me) and the holder.....
I got to work sewing 3 bells on each side (instead of the cluster of bells B&BW has around the top). The silicone was very forgiving and EZ to sew through....

Ta-DA!! My holly jolly .50 jingle-y bell pocket bac holder! These would make great lil gifts (you can sew anything on there!! Jewels, rhinestones, etc)

You know I LOVE me some leopard.....and it seems every year I come up with a new way to display the cards from friends and family. This year I am clipping them on baking twine (I will show that later). I needed something to hang them with...clothespins is the easy inexpensive answer. BUT I'm a girl who loves her glitz and glam, so what to do?!?!

Make them glitz-y and glam-y of course!! Here is what I came up with....

So EASY!! Here is my immediatley finished product....scroll down for directions....

Start with your pack of clothespins from the Dollar Tree (you get 36 -that's a steal!!). LEAVE the pins on the card they come on (SO much easier to handle them this way), gold glitter and black glitter, elmers glue, a paint brush and a vegetable box from your grocer to catch the glitter (this step isn't necessary, just makes for easy clean-up_ ....I used what I had on hand (which is cheap-y larger flecks of gold glitter - think middle school project glitter) and a black fine glitter by Martha Stewart. I actually think the contrast between the textures in the glitters helped to really make the piece!

Start by squirting a lil glue on each clothespin, spread with your paint brush....

Sprinkle with glitter.....let dry for several hours.....

After you have patiently waited watching the glue dry, you are ready for the next step....Use your glue again, BUT this time, you want to make lil circles and half circles to resemble leopard spots....they don't have to be perfect, just be easy with the glue and you'll be great! Once the spots are on, sprinkle with your black glitter....I found doing several at a time was easiest.
These would also be cute with zebra, pink leopard, etc! Have fun creating!

Stumped for a coffee table....

2011-12-08T10:30:00.001-08:00

So I came up with this arrangement.....

I was using these two end tables as a coffee table PRIOR to putting up the Christmas tree (the pic below isn't the greatest....BUT all I had and it was from Thanksgiving day)
Once I put the tree up, I somehow ran outta space (maybe that's because the tree is smack dab in the middle of the big picture window) and the "coffee table" was too much...it was too crowded. So we put them downstairs for the holidays BUT I missed a coffee table. And I have this FAB silver tree stump that was hiding away in the corner (because it lost its home under the window) so I moved the stump to the center....but it was lost and floating....I need at least 2 more stumps BUT I don't think that's gonna happen...So I had to come up with something else....

I added a lil round table (maybe a plant stand) but the two still didn't look quite right....so I added a vintage leather ottoman.....

I LOVE the grouping, the size and shape! It fits perfect, gives the room a "custom collected" look.....today I FINALLY got around to accessorizing.....

I LOVe the way it came out! I was going for a Chic Winter woodland theme.....

I LOVE the creamy lime green poinsettias.....BUT my poinsettia didn't start out int his fab pot....it came in those cheapy green cellophanes.....

While at the thrift (I went back to get a silver tinsel tree I had seen there the week prior BUT didn't buy because the girl said they would be on -sale the next week....of course as all those stories go, when I went back it was gone) I found this Haeger pot.....probably form the 80's. I paid more than I would have normally (it wasn't "expensive" by any means, just more than what I would pay usually...it was $2.80) the ONLY reason I bought it was because I knew I had an immediate use for it.....

Do you see the side by side difference? What a vast improvement from store bought (thank you Wal-Mart) to Chic.....

I am linking up with Jennifer for her holiday house walk http://www.jenniferrizzo.com/2011/12/welcome-to-holiday-housewalk-party.html

WIWW

2011-12-07T17:00:00.000-08:00

It's Wednesday which means its time to post WIWW and link up with Lindsey http://thepleatedpoppy.com/2011/12/what-i-wore-wednesday-47/. I found these baby's at the thrift last week for....get ready.....$1.89! Do you LOVE them?!?! How perfect for the holidays, no?
Now I have to tell you I don't like red or pink...like at all....those are not "my" colors.....BUT lately I have been having a hankering for red and pink - WHAT?!?! I know!

This is Saturday's outfit....and although you can't see the outfit - the face is hilarious - right?!?! What I am doing is LESS than hilarious....I had to "repair" (ie re-create the ornament wreath I made last year - SO MAD about that...hence the face).

Black Cross Studded T - Maurice's 2010

Black Seven Leggings - Marshall's 2010

Freshwater Pearls - Thrifted

Slippers - Wal-Mart

Now the reason I posted that crazy pic above is because I wore black shirts 4 days in a row (so inventive, I know) they were all different (t-neck sweater, long sleeve black, another black long sleeve and a black short sleeve t-shirt).....

Last Wednesday's outfit.....

Black Turtleneck Sweater - Thrifted

Jeans - Don't remember

Boots - Uggs

Necklace - Thrifted

Feather earrings - Made by me

There ya go....NOW you can see my earrings....see, they are embellished with pearls (OF COURSE). I have made pearl my signature piece....

Tuesday Pretties and reviews

2011-12-06T10:49:00.000-08:00

Happy Tuesday Y'all! Yesterday while I was out getting St. Nick trinkets at Walgreens I noticed this FAB shade of green as I walked by....SO miseltoe-y PERFECT!! I kept walking thinking I don't need ANOTHER nail polish....but then I backtracked (LITERALLY) and grabbed the bottle off the shelf. Sally Hansen Xtreme Wear in "Going Green" for $2.89. I really love this line of polish for "drugstore" polish....inexpensive, FUN colors and last on your nails for several days.

Now I realize my nails don't even look like I just did them last night (I SWEAR I DID) but maybe that's because I decided today (when it's 38℉ to spray paint a few winter-y projects..to be posted soon).

See, here I am polishing them! Well actually, added the leopard spots....not sure if you noticed on my ring finger in the above photo.....I did gold glitter random spots and outlined in black...

Also at Walgreens I picked up this FAB palette of eye shadows.....Love the neutral colors, the way it looks in the package and IF it weren't for the plum color, these could be used for a bronzer.....these lil beauties were only .99 - a STEAL! There were fun color palettes too BUT I will save those for the more experienced make-up wear-ers!

Here is the top creamy color and the plum color on....

Have y'all heard the commercials for Colgate Optic White toothpaste? Retails for around $4.00 for the smaller size. Guaranteed to whiten your teeth in one week....I am a Crest girl BUT was curious about whiten in a week and jumped on the bandwagon. Now I did document the progress by taking a pic a day (which are below....they look kinda crazy...like big 'ol teeth - so be prepared for some crazy pics)

Here are my teeth on Day 1:

And on Day 4:
I do notice a difference in just a few days and DEFINETLEY would recommend this product. I did NOT use on my bottom teeth either as I was looking for a difference I'd be able to see when I looked in the mirror.

So that's all I got for today! If you have tried any new products that you absolutely love, shoot me a message or leave a comment!

Trimming the Tree

2011-12-05T10:32:00.000-08:00

I have been trying to get the pic of me and my lil guy to rotate so I can post here and it just isn't budging BUT he was there and he did hang his ornaments! Last year I started a "new" tradition...that we will go to Macy's and pick an ornament for the tree (while we are there seeing the windows and the big tree). Last year they EACH picked an ornament (which was ok, they were 40% off) so they got to hang those. When the sad day comes that they are grown ups and living on their own, I will send all their ornaments with them....

Here is my ornament we made last year (one of the advent calendar projects) we did our initials out of cardboard and glittered them. Cheap and fun!

My lil sweetie hanging her glitter ornament she made.....

Trimming a tree is serious business....see, my face says so!

Here is a lil snippet of my white (LOVE) tree.....I will showcase more for the Nester;s holiday home tour!

While sitting down enjoying the calm of the evening and the lights of my tree I noticed the branches were reflecting in this robins egg blue vintage shiny brite...

last year I saw this idea on another blog....grouping ornaments together....LOVED it! Makes such an impact and helps fill in those bare spots....

Happy tree trimming!

Advent Calendar

2011-12-04T21:09:00.000-08:00

A few years ago my girl Tia and I made these advent calendars (after seeing them all over blog land we knew we wanted to try our hand at it with our own twist)...

We covered different size match boxes / small containers in scrapbook paper, added the numbers (and magnets to the back to stick to the spray painted cookie sheet). Each year I add different lil trinkets....these are this years....

Chocolate santas, golden coins, snowmen pencils, sponge grow an animal (which is the day prior to the zoo for zoo lights) and gloves (these have a lil slip of paper that says "see mom"). Thank you Target Dollar Spot! I ♥You!

Lest you think I only give "gifts" I also give family time....I write out lil slips of paper of fun things to do during the month of December....
Such as: Go Downtown and see the Macy's lights, Make Ornaments, Movie and Popcorn (at home).....
Ice Cream at Culvers, trip to see Santa, Ice Cream Sundaes (at home), breakfast at Starbucks.....These are just a few examples of what we do BUT the possibilities are endless! If you make one, lemme know, I'd love to see it and get ideas!

Christmas Pinterst / Blog Projects

2011-12-02T20:33:00.000-08:00

We all peruse blogland and Pinterest and find these fab projects we put on our to-do list...Here are a few of mine!

Canvas with scrap paper tree...what a great (inexpensive) way to incorporate color into your holiday decor......

These have been all over blogland too! Anthro is selling them, lots of you girls have made fab versions....they remind me of Martha Stewarts water globes from back in late 90's....BUT these are much easier because they are sans water! Imagine all the fun you could have with colored trees!!
Saw this in Hammers and High Heels blog...it was at the Bachman's show house in Minnesota - FAB, no? Ever since I saw it a few weeks ago I have been picking up silver trays to add to my collection! I am just trying to figure out where to get plate hangers big enough.

SO simple and chic - LOVE the photos inside! While thrifting a few weeks ago I found a bag of holiday cookie cutters and remembered this project.....
I'd love to see what projects y'all have in the rosters! As I get each done, I will post my version! Happy Holly-days!

WIWW November

2011-11-30T08:54:00.001-08:00

Hi Y'all! It's been awhile since I have linked up....I just never feel my ensembles are worthy of posting (I had this conversation with myself this morning as I got dressed....it went a lil something like this....today I am going to wear jeans and a sweater...hhhmmmm, not worthy of posting...wish I was wearing something fashion forward, wish I had some new cute heels....wish I liked wearing heels) and at the end of the conversation with myself I decided I am doing ok....I am getting dressed, not schlumping around so it's worth it, right?!?!

Here was last Tuesday's outfit (we'll call it the the day before the madness - LOL!!)

Sweater - Limited via the thrift

Leopard Skirt - Thrifted

Brown Tights - Old

Grey Boots - Target Last winter

Thanksgiving Day....really LOVED the dress, got lots of compliments BUT just didn't photog well...and you can't tell in the pic either BUT I am wearing plum colored tights (that have a pattern - I didn't know that until I put them on). I asked my daughter is I should wear brown tights or purple and she says "purple"...then later she says "I can't believe you are wearing purple tights!!" My girl doesn't take chances, or enjoy the frou-frou.....

Anyway, onto the outfit details....

Brown "velvet" dress - Thrift

Plum Tights - Marshall's

Brown Suede Heeled Mary Janes - OLD Target 2004

Vintage Pearls - Great Aunt's

And here is Saturday's outfit....sadly I didn't get a WIWW pic SO a group shot will have to do!!

Peace Hat - Family Dollar

Red Plaid Shirt - Black Friday STEAL at Target

Black Tank - Target 2009

Vintage Pearls - Great Aunt

What you CAN'T SEE

Black Jeggings - Seven via Marshall's

Leopard Rain Boots - Aldi

Check out Lindsey's blog http://thepleatedpoppy.com/2011/11/what-i-wore-wednesday-46/ for more WIWW

SALTINE TOFFEE

2011-11-28T07:53:00.000-08:00

My girlies and I had a cookie / gift exchange this past weekend. After preparing a Thanksgiving meal for 16 I wanted an EASY cookie recipe (and something different that I haven't done before). So I turned to the Food Network magazine and found a simple Saltine Toffee cookie recipe. I tweaked it a lil to avoid an allergic reaction to nuts (I will list both recipes below). Here is how they came out.....

While out Black Friday shopping (did y'all go?) I picked up these simple glass vintage looking mason jars at Dollar Tree (I knew I wanted something cute and classic that would display the cookies).....
I added lime green (my signature color) ribbon to the jars (there are cute lil brown pinstripes and the words Let it snow printed on the ribbon)....

TA-DA!! Here they are with the toffee!! LOVE the way they came out....just as I pictured in my head (don't you LOVE when that happens?!?!)

Here we are (SORRY GIRLS.....DON'T hate me ☺ ). Jenny and I are wearing almost identical plaid shirts (I SWEAR we didn't plan it that way!!). I got mine at Target Black Friday for $10.00 and I got my daughter a matching one - won't we be so cute - and THAT will be intentional!

SALTINE TOFFEE

*32 Saltine Crackers *1 stick of butter

* 1/4 cup brown sugar *1/4 cup granulated sugar

*1 cup chocolate chips *Chopped Peanut Brittle (my substitute)

OR *Chopped Pecans (original recipe)

Lay saltines on foil lined baking sheet. Pre-heat oven to 375. Boil butter and sugars until melted. Spoon sugar mixture over crackers (I used a small ladle and did each individual cracker so they didn't stick together). Bake for 5 minutes. Remove from oven, sprinkle with chocolate chips (again I did each individual cracker) and bake again for 1 minute. Remove from oven and spread chocolate evenly over each cracker. Sprinkle topping of choice (peanut brittle or pecans) and chill. (I found putting them in the fridge for a few hours worked best). ENJOY!!

GATHER

2011-11-22T07:42:00.000-08:00

While perusing blogland I stumbled on Carla's blog http://hammersandhighheels.blogspot.com/2011/10/revisiting-our-fireplace-diy-projects.html and found this image....

I INSTANTLY loved it and knew I wanted to adapt it and create it for my home.....and here is MY version......

When sans mantle (or mantel) one must get a lil creative! I hung my banner from eye screws screwed into the sides of the book shelves (please don't look at the lack of decorating there....still haven't reorganized after the birthday party this past weekend).

I used vintage dictionary book pages (the same I used in the project last week) and simply printed directly on them. Cut 2 slits in the top using an exacto knife and threaded onto jute twine (I LOVE jute twine and use it for many projects)
Here's a close-up of the FAB iron turkey that friends and family covet every Thanksgiving. Purchased Tom many years ago at an auction in Minnesota.....
Have a GREAT day!

Acorns

2011-11-17T09:58:00.000-08:00

While blog surfing the other day I found this image.......

Aren't they the most FAB things you have ever seen? Rustic and flashy all in one! L O V E!! Ironically enough I happened to have the supplies on hand......
Well kind of....I thin she used a string of sequins.....I went the old fashioned way (remember those ornaments from the 70's? My mom had a ton!) and pinned each sequin in....

Just in cases you didn't believe I actually did it.....nah, that's not why I took the pic! This lil project prompted a family craft night.....everyone wanted to join in! Which was perfect because I had spent the day LOOKING for a project for all of us and came up with nothing....then BAM! While blog surfing, I hit the jackpot!!
TA-DA!! Here are mine on display.......

Aren't they great?!?!? Fall-y and FAB!! Perfect rustic elegance and they look so good with this display!
Here is my version of the original one I saw.....silver sequins and jute twine top.....
....and OF COURSE I had to add my pearls!! This was a strand of small seed pearls (that I got over the summer at an estate sale knowing I'd always find a use later)...I simply glued the pre-strung (thank you previous owner) stand all around the styro egg and topped with jute twine!

The original base of silver sequins with a mustard yellow yarn top......

One wreath...many ways

2011-11-14T14:17:00.000-08:00

I needed 2 wreath forms for CHEAP! Found these lovely 80's throwback wreaths at the Thrift Store....I got lucky, one was 1/2 off and sadly the other was full price (due to their "color" tags) BUT still, they were only $3.80 for both!

Since they were similar in shape and size, I knew they were perfect! I got to work taking EACH piece of fabric out of the wreaths....
They were stuck into these holes.....
TA-DA!! After they were stripped of their 80's garb!
I cut this skirt into strips.....
And used this skirt to make rosettes (these fab coral beauty was only .10 and adds great texture)

Here is the wreath covered in the grey skirt and embellished with paint chip pennants for my daughter's birthday.
And here they are for the month of November.....

Felt flowers, the orange rosettes and blue fabric rosettes.....I printed out give thanks on green card stock (in a perfect world there would have been green felt flowers too BUT I couldn't find lime green felt)
For Christmas I will add maybe some glittery snowflakes....not sure yet. What I did know going into the project was that eventually the front doors will be painted black (and the grey and orange will pop) and that grey and orange are my neutrals. If you give this project a try, I'd love to see it!

Give Thanks

2011-11-13T13:31:00.000-08:00

I LOVE Christmas as much as the next girl BUT I am NOT going to rush it (now that's not to say I haven't listened to a few carols that they are already playing on the radio) BUT I haven't put my tree up yet, decorated the house or even began making things for the season. I believe we need to remember Thanksgiving....take the time to be thankful for all the blessings in our lives, no matter how awful things sometimes seem.....with that being said, I do have a few lil fall / thankful decorations up.....

Got this beauty at the Salvation Army....LOVED the color and the shape.....

ANd the price! That's right peeps. $1.95!! This can be used for thanksgiving and every holiday there after! Christmas full of vintage balls, New years full of clock faces, Valentine's Day - hearts of course, St. Patty's - shamrocks, Easter - eggs, Summer - shells! I wouldn't put food in there because I do believe the previous owner painted it.
For now I have a few pinecones (I am having the hardest time finding somewhere to collect the lil buggers!!) and the leaves that were in my flower arrangement.

I simply added some acorns to the base of this glitterati candle that I put into a silver pedestal bowl.....
and displayed it here on the shelf in the entry hallway.....
This is the lil frame next to the number 7 above. It's a vintage dictionary page that just so happened to have a turkey pic next to the definition!!
Which prompted the turkey drawing on the silver chalkboard tray (this display is missing something BUT as usual I will be decorating up until the doorbell rings Thanksgiving day!!)
I printed this out on my computer......

In the China hutch I displayed my Great Grandma's vintage Wheat china (which we will be using for Thanksgiving dinner)

I am linking up at Bungalow http://www.thebungalowblogonline.com/ she's hosting a Thanksgiving Linky party!

Indoor S'More's

2011-11-10T10:52:00.000-08:00

Have any of you had that nasty 2 part cold that's been going around? We're on our second week with it and it stinks! Being sick means staying in. resting and watching tv......BUT you need a yummy snack, right?!?!

We chose indoor S'Mores! Now I am SURE I am NOT the first person to do this (in fact, we used to do this all the time BUT with the microwave).

Here is all the yummy S'More goodness (notice the pretty fleur de lis chocolate squares)

Wait, in the above pic I forgot our roasting skewers (which is ok, they kinda ruin the pretty in the picture)
As you can see, we simply held the marshmallow over the stove flame (I did remove the burner grates to avoid marshmallow mess madness) and kids, you need mom and dad's supervision!!
Just in case your marshmallow catches on fire.....mom can blow it out! (remember, I was sick...no make-up and comfy fleece - how scary!!)
mmmm, mmmm good! The perfect Indoor S'more!
Kid tested - MOTHER APPROVED!!
Have a GREAT day! Try your own indoor S'More today!!

WIWW

2011-11-09T07:02:00.000-08:00

I took lots of pics this week for what I wore Wednesday.....So many that I contemplated posting a pic a day....BUT I love linking up with Lindsey at the Pleated Poppy http://thepleatedpoppy.com/2011/11/what-i-wore-wednesday-42/. Here is WIW Friday...my guy and I had the day to ourselves while the kiddies were in school, so we went thrifting and out to lunch.

Mustard Sweater - Thrifted

Grey T-Shirt - Old Navy

Black Jeggins - Seven via Marshall's

Boots - Coach

Purse - Coach

Wallet - Marshall's
Necklace - Thrifted

These are the silly outtakes (I was trying to show my ring)
Leopard Ring - Aerie

Saturday was an easy breezy day (read about it in my previous post) SO I wanted to be comfy....

Black Velour Hoodie - Thrifted

Black Striped Skully Bling Tank - Disneyworld

Black Velour Pants - Don't remember

Flip Flops - Wal-Mart
Sunday morning was church and I decided to try mixing prints.....and wearing booties with something other than jeans (I see these looks on y'all's blogs and I LOVe the look but for me, I felt uncomfortable the entire morning). What I wore.....

Floral Cardi - Thrifted

Black and white polka dot dress - Thrifted

Red Belt - Thrifted

Booties - Kmart 2009

I felt like I was ready to take off in flight.....
or say OLE!!! Tell me, what do you think? Hit or miss on this one?
Later Sunday afternoon I met my girls for lunch at Maggiano's and I wore this.....

Black Jacket - Lane Bryant

Lace Corset T - Wal-Mart

Jeans - Don't remember

Boots - Thrifted

Pearls - Vintage

See these boots? Above I mentioned they were thrifted.....Nine West
I paid $4.99, they were brand new from Nordstrom rack retailing for $59.90 and I paid $4.99!! Now, the trick here was I bought them back in May, when suede shoes were not in season, BUT I sure was happy to pull them out in November! Buy off season for staples - YOU WILL SAVE!!

Off to see what y'all wore!

Easy.....Like a Sunday Morning

2011-11-05T18:17:00.000-07:00

BUT on a Saturday! This is the first weekend we haven't had volleyball or football and to be quite honest we were unsure what to do with ourselves!! It was a GORGEOUS fall day here in the midwest. After a trip to HobLob for some craft supplies (cupcake liners pictured below included) I decided to whip up some cupcakes.....

This was my first time using Paula Deen's cupcake mix and it was DELISH! (on a side note, I have her book and started to read it but never finished...has anyone out there read it?). I wanted to decorate the cupcakes but have yet to locate my Pampered Chef tool I use to frost the cupcakes so I had to frost the old fashioned way.....

They came out pretty cute (at least I think so).....

As I mentioned above, we went to HobLob for some project supplies (I am lucky enough that my guy enjoys a trip to HobLob and creating too). Here is a lil preview.....project details to follow soon!

Have a GREAT weekend y'all!

Warm and Cozy

2011-11-03T19:04:00.001-07:00

Welcome November

A gentle reminder as we enter and leave....."give thanks".....

My $2.00 spikes are still thriving (and huge)!!
In the front entry signs of fall abound....(you'll the notice the flowers from my honey have gone from Jack O'Lantern to a pumpkin.....sshhh.....I just turned them around!!)
A lil fall tableau in the hall....the main elements remained the same - the mirror, sconces and table. The changes were the glittered candles (thrifted for .40 / each), the natural twig pumpkins (thrifted for .60 / each) the apple basket and the train case (that houses my nail polishes).
I LOVE the combo of the rust and lime green!

Juxtapose in the dining room of rustic elegance. Fun kitchsy green metal, silver tray and wood with wrought iron.
Stay tuned for more turkey decor! Here I have featured simple changes that evoke cozy fall memories!

HAPPY HALLOWEEN

2011-10-31T12:44:00.000-07:00

May your Monday be full of treats not tricks! Recovering from a busy Halloween-palooza weekend!!

Friday started off with flowers from my honey! Have you ever seen anything so cute?!?! The florist did a great job!

Saturday night we carved pumpkins....5 pumpkins! There were pumpkin guts everywhere!! This is the pattern I chose.....

Here are all the pumpkins on the porch.......

L to R: Nik's, Mario's, Miguel's Maya's and Mine.....everyone did a GREAT job! We sure have some talented kids!!

Of course all those pumpkins yielded tons of seeds......
Which we were making at midnight! Have a spooktacular evening! Trick or treating at Nana and Grandpa's with the cousins tonight!

WIWW

2011-10-27T05:45:00.000-07:00

I am a day late to link up BUT better later than never!! I LOVE linking up with Lindsey http://thepleatedpoppy.com/2011/10/what-i-wore-wednesday-40/ it's fun to see what everyone else is wearing AND keeps me outta sweats all week! LOL! I actually only have one pic this week (NOT because I didn't get dressed, life just happened and was busy).

This was just a silly off the cuff pic and it turned out to be my favorite (look wise BUT not all the crap in the background)

Here is what I wore.....
Sweater - The Limited (thrifted)

Leopard Tank - Wal-Mart 2010

Jeans - Lane Bryant

Grey Suede Boots - Target Jan 2011

Purse - Thrifted

Rosary - Thrifted

The details......
Cute lil tie-up side on sweater

Off to see what YOU wore! Have a great day!

Happy Halloween

2011-10-20T12:46:00.000-07:00

Halloween is very near and I am still posting about Halloween!! Today I realized that I still hadn't shown these images to you.....

A lil tableau .......vintage mannequin head with and embellished wicked witch hat, I added the sign to the broom, put some glitter christmas balls in a bowl (they were the PERFECT colors for Halloween - silver, grey and black) and added the framed sign "Under my spell" which I printed out form the computer...here is a prime example of what I was talking about before....taking what you have and making it into what you need! The only true halloween elements were the hat and broom....the rest was evoked through imagination

The witchy mannequin started out this way......As you can see in the above picture I added fur trim to the hat and a necklace....
Here is another simple change.....I added a feather boa (thrifted) to my current lampshade. I simply pinned it on there.....
So after the halloween holiday it will look like this again (although I think I am really digging the black feather boa)
Picked up this cute lil floor mat at Dollar Tree (of ALL PLACES!!!!)
I made this.....it's for sale if anyone's interested.....$25.00
I snapped this spooktacular pic of the moon tuesday night.....
While outside taking pics of this guy.....
I got this skully at the thrift...NWT (the tag tells me he's supposed to be a candy dish BUT I thought he'd make a fun addition to my outdoor decor!

Remember these from the pumpkin patch? After seeing the Nester's post on her pumpkins on the table. I decided to put mine there too

Since we eat off this table I needed to be able to move them quick and easy at meal time SO in came the brass tray......
Here they are perfectly movable! BUT I do think I need something else...maybe some leaves? Acorns? Pine Cones?

WIWW Hit or Miss

2011-10-19T18:22:00.001-07:00

This is what I wore today......and in case you were wondering I think this one was the hit.....

Denim jacket - Don't remember

White Button Up Shirt - Wal-Mart 2008

Coral Striped T-Shirt Dress - Thrifted

Black Leggings - Marshall's

Grey Boots - Target (highly coveted after I saw on several blogs this past winter)

Pearls - Vintage

BECAUSE This one was the miss!! Here with the black fleece I was going for warm and comfy (the temp dropped, winds picked up and it was raining).

Only difference here was the black fleece jacket - Target Jan. 2011
This was Sunday's outfit....again, I vote this as a miss because this is what I wore to church (and I had intended to wear a dress so I thought this was far too casual)

Black Jacket - Lane Bryant

Black Lace Tank - Nordstrom Rack

Jeans- Ann Taylor Loft (thrifted)

Black T-straps - Anne Klein (thrifted)
Linking up with Lindsey here http://thepleatedpoppy.com/2011/10/what-i-wore-wednesday-39/

The Pumpkin Patch...

2011-10-18T10:16:00.000-07:00

....Always conjures up images of the perfect fall day! It was gorgeous (MINUS the wind). What I wore there....

Cute lil' owl earrings....tehy look very Anthro - no? You';; never believe where I got them....Walgreens!! For $2.99!

And on my feet.....my trusty fab and fun leopard rain boots (you know in case it was muddy)
My mom and I met this guy.....BUT we told him we were already spoken for!
There were some adorable lil pumpkins left in the patch.....I am a SUCKER for a green pumpkin...traditional with a twist!!
These lil red wagons were all lined up right after you got off the tractor, so you could transport your pumpkins to your car.....
The cousins seeking out the Great Pumpkin (Charlie Brown)
This s the one my lil guy chose....all warty and beautiful

I LOVED this perfectly grey-ish green (Cinderella?) Pumpkin
But I got these instead!! (LOL, I was holding them on the tractor ride and I realized they looked like quite the pair!!)
A cute lil vignette I pulled together in the middle of the patch!
Happy Pumpkin Hunting!

Black, Orange and Batty

2011-10-17T16:37:00.000-07:00

I picked these up at the store the other day with the intent of making kabobs BUT then the weather got all cool and I was enjoying making stews and using the oven! SO I had all the (perfect fall colored) peppers left over.....

While grocery shopping at Wal-Mart these were on the end cap.....
And I could NOT pass up Halloween colored food! SO what does one do with peppers and Halloween tortilla chips?!?!?

Chili! Of course! Perfect for a fall football day (too bad the game was on later in the evening BUT at least the Bears had a win!!).

And for dessert.....some fudge brownies with Halloween sprinkles!

And in keeping with the Halloween theme I did my nails in Midnight Sky by Sally Hansen and added a (glow in the dark) Bat decal to my ring finger on each hand!
Have a spooktacular evening!

Shoes Day

2011-10-16T18:02:00.001-07:00

First time I wore these (Church today). Thrifted for $2.49 (they were originally $5.00 BUT it was 1/2 off shoes day) AND these bad birds were BRAND NEW in the BOX, retailing originally for $80.00 (Anne Klein). Can we say STEAL?!?!!

Unfortunately they are NOT comfortable SO these shoes are relegated to sitting only, not far to walk occasions.

I am linking up with Shana for her Shoe a Day Challenge here http://shanaandadam.blogspot.com/p/new-day-new-shoes-challenge.html Check it out, link up and be inspired!

Halloween Treats

2011-10-15T19:41:00.000-07:00

Remember the Candy Corn treats in my last post? Here they are in the kitchen - I think they look pretty cute!! (See my treat jar? I posted about that previously too BUT I think the last time it was just the pumpkin and now for Halloween, the reverse side is the Jack O'Lantern face).

While grocery shopping, I noticed several great items for fall / Halloween....Vanilla Cool whip (if anyone has any great recipes using this Cool Whip, I'd love to hear about them!) Halloween Oreos (LOVE Oreo's and a glass of milk...does anyone else think the holiday Oreo's are extra cream, like almost Double Stuff Oreo's?) and Pumpkin Shaped and Flavored Marshmallows (on the back of the package there was a recipe for Rice Krispie treats using these pumpkin marshmallows...seems interesting and is on my list to try)

Here are the cookies and marshmallows on display.....
Made these tonight....Halloween Break and Bake's from Aldi (SO YUMMY and easy)

Homemade Halloween

2011-10-13T08:12:00.001-07:00

While pinning away on Pinterest I found these.....

CUTE, no? Easy and CHEAP (IF you shop around! Paola picked our cones up at the Dollar store {they were about 6" tall so she also picked up round styro discs that we toothpicked into the bottom to give some height difference - GENIUS!!} and yarn - who knew yarn was so expensive?!?! I shopped Wal-Mart, Michael's and finally pulled the trigger at Jo-Ann's because they were on sale for $2.49 / a skein....and you'll have plenty left for other projects).

We also made plastic bag pumpkins (you can see Paola cutting the fabric here)
These are Paola's Candy Corn's....nice and neat...a different take on the ones from Pinterest that were a lil more textured
And mine that are exactly like the Pinterest ones (I like the textured look and didn't have the patience to be so neat and precise)
Ours side by side (Paola's left and mine right - like you couldn't tell!). We used a cream, pumpkin orange and mustard....more natural shades as the yellow and orange were just plain AWFUL.
The candy corns were fast and easy (you simply wrap the cones and glue down the tails....there are tutorials all over blogland). Since we were done so quickly we decided to try our hand at plastic bag pumpkins. They are just as they sound....fabric covered grocery store bags. Since this was in impropmtu last minute addition we did not have any "fabric" bought for the project. BUT we bits and pieces and clothes from the thrift or headed to the thrift (that we rescued). Here is Paola's....
She made her coral colored pumpkin using the scraps of a skirt I got at the thrift for .10 (I bought it for just such crafts).

Here is my pumpkin.....

Made from a pair of shorts that are too big now (I LOVED the pattern on these shorts and am happy I am able to preserve it!!). Initially I thought the pattern was too busy BUT as I look at the pics, I am in love! It will pair beautifully with my toilet paper pumpkin from last fall!

WIWW

2011-10-12T07:46:00.000-07:00

I was SO good about getting pics of WIWW this past week....I am excited that I can participate with Lindsey http://thepleatedpoppy.com/2011/10/what-i-wore-wednesday-allora-handmade-giveaway/

Friday's Outfit

I took Maya and Miguel to do a lil shopping and spend their gift cards....the Midwest has had some FAB weather the past few days and Friday was no exception - it was in the 80's!

Denim Bolero w/gold flecks - Thrifted (Wal-mart)

Navy Tank - Thrifted (Gap)

Pin Stripe Khaki Shorts - Thrifted (JCP)

Gold Sandals- Wal-Mart Spring 2011

WOW! My entire outfit was thrifted! I didn't even realize that until I typed it!

Saturday was "Date Day" with my guy! We farmed out the kids and spent the gorgeous Saturday afternoon perusing shops in Downtown Geneva. Here I am at the cupcake shop (I had the pumpkin and maple cupcake - TO D I E FOR!!)
Then we had a late lunch at The Turf Room...a place I have been dyin' to try. I LOVED it! The ambiance was a warm industrial chic vibe (I will post more on this later)
I sported my vintage Coach bag Saturday...it proved to be the perfect size to wear cross body, was big enough to hold the "essentials" and not too heavy!

This is one of the silly outtakes from "the turf room shots".

Peace Hat - Family Dollar (OF ALL PLACES)

Black T - Rue 21

Jeans - Thrifted (Ann Taylor LOFT - the best fit of jeans on me EVAH!!!)

Black Nikes

Vintage Coach Purse

Sunday morning the kids had no events so we finally made it to church!

Olive Green dress - Thrifted

Gold Belt - Old Navy

Gold Sandals - Wal-Mart

Pearls - Vintage

Monday my girl Paola came over and we made some things for fall (more on that later too)

Grey Leopard T- Rue 21

Black Jeggings - Seven

Black Flip Flops - Wal-Mart

Off to see what y'all wore - I'm always looking for inspiration!!

Nail Fetish

2011-10-11T08:33:00.000-07:00

While perusing Pineterest I found these FAB Day of the Dead Sugar Skull Nails....

So I replicated one of them with a lil bit of a change....using Lacey Lilac by Sally Hansen Extreme Wear and Sharpie's!

While blogging I found THIS inspiration:
Yo can go here to rad all about it (plus she has FAB outfits, favorite things and recipes - her blog is a must stop) http://cupcakesandcashmere.com/mermaid-nails/

I didn't use Martha Stewart glitter because while getting groceries at Wal-Mart I picked this 4 pack of extra fine glitter up for a buck!
I polished my toes the night before with Taunting Teal by Sonia Kashuk, let them dry overnight and the next morning I simply swiped my toe nail with clear polish and shook the glitter over it (you may notice I had my foot on a sheet of paper to catch the excess glitter)
When it was done it was A LOT of glitter, so much that I started to remove the glitter polish combo to do it over. While doing so I found that the glitter was just the right amount, no need to start from scratch! (I think this process takes a lil trial and error). Here is the after:

I opted for the coppery glitter to compliment the teal (vs. doing a shade or ombre affect)
I don't think my toes-ies are fab or anything, was just trying to capture the coloring but was SO hard (with flash too bright, without flash is what I am showing above and with flash is below)

Don't be afraid to have FUN with your nails and try new things! If you think some looks are too bold for you, experiment on your toe nails first! Pineterst has a TON of inspiration! Check it out!

Studded Pumpkin and Sweet Caramel

2011-10-09T16:57:00.001-07:00

One doesn't really have too much to do with the other (well, I guess you could eat the snack WHILE making the pumpkin) BUT I wanted to blog about both!! Here is the studded pumpkin......

I was inspired by this one (LOVE the BLUE and kinda wish I had painted mine blue as well). I am sorry to whomever's idea this was...I saved it to my desktop and I forgot to save the blog SO if it's yours, please tell me!!

I bought my foam pumpkin at the thrift store....it was this great shade of green when I bought it....
AND the BEST part is....I only paid .60 for it!!

After I added all my tacks (which were purchased from the Dollar Tree...they come in boxes of 300 - and you will need 2 boxes...you won't use all of the second box but you will probably need about 45 from the second box). While I LOVE the brass AND the green, not sure how I feel about them together (I don't feel like there is enough of a contrast - like with the blue and the brass).
The nice thing about this project is it will carry from September thru Thanksgiving!
Inspired by McDonald's Caramel Apple Sundae (WHICH I have yet to have) I made some of my own Caramel Apples in A Dish with Granny Smith Apples, Butterscotch (it's what I had on hand) and whip cream - YUM-O!

PINING away on Pinterest

2011-10-06T10:54:00.000-07:00

I am SO behind on the Pinterest bandwagon.....and BOY was I missing out!! I have to be honest....I was a lil frustrated initially trying to figure out how to pin, seeing who re-pins, socializing with the "community" BUT WOWSZA!! I'm glad I took the time to at least fumble my wy around because there are SO MANY amazing images and projects on there!

There's fashion.......

And beauty......
Seasonal Decor......
And projects.....
Cute party ideas......
Creepy decor.....
And house projects galore!!
These are just a few images from my pinboards! To see more of what I have re-pinned or my own projects, go here http://pinterest.com/janaec/ If you need an invite, let me know!

BLACKJack

2011-10-04T12:03:00.001-07:00

I lil more halloween decor (you KNOW I will probably be posting pics up until October 31st!!). For this tableau I simply pinned a feather boa from the thrift store (scored for 1.90) onto my existing lamp - which makes the biggest pop in this corner - I LOVE it!

Now onto Black Jack! Here is is.....

All glittery and happy!! But he didn't start out that way.....THIS is what he looked like....

He was headed for the thrift store as a donation because I wasn't digging his orange / spooky combo - looked too much like a 1980's bad halloween movie! AND THEN I got the idea to glitter him black and fabulous! BUT first I gave him a nice spray of black paint ( so if the glitter didn't completely cover, you wouldn't see the orange). I also taped off his face from the inside so he wouldn't look black and spotty

I laid down a sheet of aluminum foil, got out the Elmers glue and a paint brush (so I could spread the glue before sprinkling on some glitta)
VIOLA!!! Black and glitter Jack on a silver compote used as a pedestal.

Hot Chocolate and Pumpkin Spice

2011-10-01T19:30:00.000-07:00

Sounds like yummy dessert, right?!?! Hopefully you aren't too disappointed! Instead it's a yummy nail polish combo!

The base color is the Hot (for) Chocolate and the top coat is the orange-y glitter Pumpkin Spice (wish I would have put a top coat as these were already starting to wear on the ends)

Hot (for) Chocolate by Loreal and Pumpkin Spice by Sally Hansen.

Mr. Bones

2011-09-29T13:41:00.000-07:00

Here is part II of the Halloween decor.....The hall table that I just blogged about last week has gotten a spooktacular makeover! I added the same muslin cheesecloth over the mirror (I just tore it from the piece featured the other day) hung a spider on the candleholder. A silver compote pedestal got a moss covered skull and some bones....

Mr. Bones got so scared his boney feet planted themselves right on the ground!
R.I.P. Mr. Bones

I don't know why this pic wouldn't rotate...I rotated it several times....maybe it's possessed?!?!? Maybe the hands in the bowl have something to do with it?
The case of the shrunken skulls.....quite the specimen, don't you agree??
First I had to glue a rubber circle to the base of my urn, then skewer some skulls onto a toothpick.....
Add some shredded vintage sheet music and VIOLA!!
Have a great night!

WIWW and CRACKLE

2011-09-28T15:32:00.000-07:00

It's Wednesday so that means it's time to link up to WIWW with Lindsey http://thepleatedpoppy.com/2011/09/what-i-wore-wednesday-37/

HOWEVER, I must preface this post by saying this was a TOTAL FAIL.....both outfits are from this morning and I didn't wear either once I saw how they looked. I am in a real clothing slump these days.....

OUTFIT 1
White Ralph Lauren Button Down

Peacock Ann Taylor Vest

Black Seven Leggings

Leopard Rain Boots

I hated how you can see the white of the shirt thru the vest because the fabric on the shirt was too thick and the sweater too thin (this sweater looks best with a lightweight T). So I changed....

Outfit 2

Black Boyfriend Cardi (that I seem to wear every week BECAUSE it's SO COMFY)

Grey Boyfriend T

Seven Black Leggings (same as previous outfit)

Leopard Rain Boots (same as previous outfit)

AND STILL I wasn't happy...so I took off the sweater and threw on my black fleece jacket and called it a day! I SO NEED to LOOK at what y'all wore so I can get some inspiration!

I do have a fun nailpolish linky I found to share with y'all.......

While blog surfing at Ali-Grace http://www.ali-grace.com/2011/09/easy-fun-nail-tutorial.html I found this really fun take on using crackle.....I couldn't wait to try it out as in I am going to try it at 9:30pm while watching the Playboy Club (speaking of, is anybody else watching? Thoughts?). I just swiped some black crackle over my (much needed to re-do) pink and LOVED the affect! Ali's are the black and teal with the bling (her's look AWESOME!!!) and mine are the pink and black.....

Cheers To A Spook-tacular Fall

2011-09-27T11:08:00.000-07:00

I usually wait until October 1st to decorate for Halloween BUT after being at my girlfriends house Sunday and seeing her Halloween decor up I was inspired to get a jumpstart! (and my lil guy asked if I was going to put up halloween stuff while he was at school - how could I not?!?!?). My decor style has evolved over the years....I used to do the cutesy pumpkins and costumed bears, etc BUT in recent years I have gone more the Martha Stewart way in creating my own decor and just accentuating what I already have. Case in point are the kids silhouettes.....

The ONLY things added were the spooky cheesecloth and giant spider!

To the candles I have on display in the dining room I added the black wire bats......

The window usually hangs on the wall as well.....(I added the shelf yesterday for the soul purpose of putting up the poison (which are various wine and liquor bottles {that I may or may not have drank} embellished with poison labels purchased form the Dollar Tree and downloaded by moi).
Alright, so I kept a lil but of "Happy" Halloween to adorn the kitchen window (it's for the kids)

Remember my granny smith apple green wreath I use for Back To School decor? I simply added to large spiders and I can keep it up another month!
That's all I have for today...the camera died! MORE to come another day!

ALOHA Birthday Decor

2011-09-26T14:20:00.000-07:00

My daughter wanted an ALOHA theme for her birthday (in SEPTEMBER - which was a challenge as tropical season was over and she decided this the end of August!!). So I searched high and low for invitations that would coordinate....I found some at Hobby Lobby BUT wasn't willing to pay the price they were asking for a pack of 10...So I figured I could make my own (which I dragged my feet on) SO at Wal-Mart I found these notecards....

Cute BUT not quite blingy enough.....so I added rhinestones....
With the invites done, I could move on to making the menu.....which of course had to coordinate with the theme....

I ordered the cake....

Balled a buncha melon (which seemed to impress her girlfriends)

The food ready to be served.....

I made Kahaluu punch...(which later I added some UV Coconut Rum to...YUM-O)

I needed somewhere to put the drink umbrellas......I tried "sand" (which was really crushed up graham cracker) and that failed....So I wracked my brain and came up with this.....

The waters even got label-ed......

I made these wreaths for the front door (I will do a separate post about these)
And for the party I added these pennants (made from paint chip samples)
We bought some glow in the dark leis (that we thought would be so cool BUT they were a pain in the butt! We had to put them together) and grass skirts.

ALOHA

Use what you have decorating

2011-09-23T10:11:00.001-07:00

HAPPY Friday y'all! Here's what I had.....an empty lil hallway niche.....maybe most people would just leave it as is.....NOT me!

I had this pile of stuff in the basement......things that might not ordinarily "go together" and I said to myself when time permits I will paint the green table a lime green....

And here they are in their new home.....as I look at it I think I don't think i will paint the table lime green after all.....I like the contrasting greens with the white....
Again, most people would be satisfied with the silver dish full of fall plenty BUT not me.....

I added the two silver frames...."Be Thankful" and Number 7 (which I made)
These were from Home Interiors back in 2003....they were gold and silver....I was going to pitch them until I decided to try and modernize them with some FUN FUNKY Apple green paint.....
LOVE them now! SO glad I didn't just throw them away! Layers are my thang....jewelry, clothing, home decor, etc! Here is an example.....I added a pearl candle ring to each sconce

I LOVED the glad spring candle line - did you have a chance to try it? I can't remember the name of the green scent BUT it was so fresh....limey and clean. Here is all I had left of it.....

After I cleaned the old wax out, I added in the center of the candle ring.....I think it's the right mix of fancy and cool! AND I went green by recycling the glass candle holders!

Try to mix it up this weekend in your own home! If ya do, leave me a comment, I'd love to come by and check it out!

WIWW Fur Colllar

2011-09-21T08:06:00.000-07:00

I am linking up with Lindsey at the Pleated Poppy http://thepleatedpoppy.com/2011/09/what-i-wore-wednesday-36/

I have 2 outfits this week (although i was bummed I missed my cute jeans and leopard rain boot shot form Sunday...BOO).

This was Monday's outfit.....it's was a cool morning and I wanted something comfy....the black boyfriend cardi is my go-to.....

Black Boyfriend Cardi - Target 2009

Black Tank - Wal-Mart $1.00

Jeans - Lane Bryant

Jewelry - See Below

Then I wanted to add some fun to my black.....So I added these accessories! FUN color, simple and easy!

Orange Beads - Thrifted, Rosettes - Purchased from a Vendor at Kane County...LOVE the color combo, the bling and the pearls.

Here's what I wore today.....
Just kidding! I was taking pics of this fur collar to list on ebay.....I would totally keep it BUT I already have 2 others and 2 vintage coats with fur collars SO I am sadly giving this up.....

Here is what I really wore today.....Not sure I am feeling this look.....I went to church this morning at my kids school.

Grey Nine West Button up - Thrifted

Gold Belt - Old Navy - YEARS ago

Jeans - Lee custom fits

Cross Necklace - Galena Boutique Purchase

A Paint Job

2011-09-19T06:55:00.000-07:00

As you know there was a time that I barely blogged.....because I was busy doing lotsa home projects! Here is one.....

AFTER:

BEFORE:

Like Where's Waldo.....do you know the changes? Some are subtle (the shelf color went from brown to black, the vintage thermos' are now elevated on glass candle holders) and the biggest change - from canary yellow to GREY!!
Since we painted the walls, I wanted to freshen up the vent covers too.....I started by painting them white....once mounted they looked fresh and clean....but then I had the idea to paint the top half the same grey as the wall, so I taped it off and painted.....what do you think?
Have a GREAT Monday! Off to complete some more projects.

Stumped

2011-09-16T13:30:00.000-07:00

Ok, not really! I am in L O V E! With my fab silver tree stump side table!

Remember I tried selling her back here? At Kane County in July.....all the women oohhed and aahhhed and all their men shot down "$25.00 kindling". Sorry boys that y'all didn't see the potential in this fab lil lady! (I secretly was happy because I wanted to keep her)

See how happy she looks? This lil vignette was born from left over flea market finds that didn't sell and my NEED to fill an empty space!

When we moved in 2 months ago THIS is what that same window looked like.....canary yellow (the stuff wasn't ours, it was the previous tenants)

SO after scrubbing it all down with bleach, and painting a pretty silver grey, we were left with this empty spot (I still need to paint this trim)

I KNEW the stump would've perfect in the living room.....it started in the corner BUT wasn't being showcased, so I moved her out to the center.....

My guy suggested adding wheels - BRILLIANT!!!
Of course I happened to have some on hand! That I picked up at the Salvation Army one day (they were marked $2.99). I KNEW one day I would have a use for them! This theory doesn't support trying to be financially sound....

TA-DA!!! Her she is ready to move!
Wheels on, accessorized and FAB!!!

FALL-ing For you....

2011-09-15T07:37:00.000-07:00

Is Colbie Calliat stuck in your head now too?!?! I LOVE fall, it has become one of my fave-y seasons! The cool crisp air means its time to pull these baby's back out......

Ugg's Bellvue II.....LOVE them! They look bad a$$ with a skirt, jeans and I should try them with shorts!!

Fall means pulling out those warm comfy sweaters that envelop you, pumpkin scented candles, pumpkin bread, chili on a sunday watching football, leaves changing, snuggling and DECORATING!!! I haven't really gotten much out in the way of fall decor as my daughters birthday party is next weekend and she's going with a tropical theme SO I will (patiently) wait. I did pick a lil somethin'-somethin' up while thrifting.....can you spot what it might be? In relation to fall?

It's the squirrel tryin' to get a nut (so move your butt to the dance floor hands up in the air - name that tune.....Everybody Dance Now!!). Isn't he ADORABLE?!?! I love that he is silver (and utilitarian....he really is a nut cracker! I found his half shelled walnut in our front yard...probably part of some real squirrely business).
He was a STEAL at .99!!

Speaking of thrifting, I picked this jar up the other day! I planned to put the new for the season Chips A'Hoy scary cookies BUT when I washed it I noticed there was a lil chip in the edge of the jar - not safe for lil hands (OR exposed food).
However I was determined to use the jar.....I put Lil' Debbie's Fall snack cakes in there (*after I taped over the chip in the glass - that way lil hands and food are protected).
See why I needed to use the jar!?!? It looks so fallish and happy with the others! hhhmmm. note to self: Fill large jar with scary cookies!
The return of fall also means the return of a beloved beverage of mine.....

Momma ♥'s her some Starbucks!

Have y'all tried the Extra Dessert (spelled with two s's because you always want double of dessert not desert) gums? They are pretty fab! I love the Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream, the Strawberry Shortcake and my new fave for fall......

Apple Pie!! Can we say genius? Brilliant? FABULOUS! and only 5 calories per piece! I know it sounds crazy - how can gum taste like apple pie? But trust me, it does! Run out and get a pack today! Ok gals, off to work on some wreaths for my front doors! Ciao!

WIWW

2011-09-14T05:53:00.000-07:00

WOW! I haven't linked up to WIWW in a LONG time! Either I forget to snap a picture OR I am in painting clothes! I am linking up with The Pleated Poppy http://thepleatedpoppy.com/2011/09/what-i-wore-wednesday-35/

I decided I wanted to try wearing my hair straight (which I did for a few days) BUT LOVE the sassy messy look!

What I am Wearing:

Oatmeal Lacey Tank - Target 2009

Cream Vest - Marshalls 2010

Jeans - Lane Bryant

Vintage Pearls - my Great Aunt's

Off to see what you all wore! HAPPY Hump day!

THRIFTY Tuesday

2011-09-13T13:21:00.000-07:00

Hello my name is Janae and I am addicted to the thrift stores! There is just something about the "thrill of the hunt" that keeps me coming back.....when blog surfing, reading magazines or watching tv I am ALWAYS keeping my eyes peeled for new to me interesting decor items, jewelry, clothes, etc. Fortunately / Unfortunately there are 2 thrift stores less than 3 miles from my house....so that means LOTSA treasures! Maybe Thrifty Tuesday will be a regular post! FOr todays post I am highlighting 2 "groups" of items found on various thrifting trips within the last few weeks......

Lets start with the purses shall we?

From left top: Cork clutch / shoulder bag, gold croc print, grey snakeskin clutch and the "lil black bag"
This gold one opens to extend 2x the length OR can be used as shown when snapped together -bag features brown lucite handles and is vintage - FAB for day or evening! Was a STEAL at .90!
This lil cork number can be used as a clutch or shoulder bag when using the gold chain. How FAB would this bag look for summer with a pair of cork wedges? (granted I won't be able to use for the next 9 months BUT I will have it when summer returns. That is one of the HUGE hints for buying ANYTHING on a budget.....buy off season when you can). Price : $1.90
The lil black bag is PERFECT for those special occasions! The frame is silver and has a cute lil closure. How cute would this be with a flower or vintage pin tacked on? Price: .90
This by far is my FAVE of all the purses! Grey snakeskin clutch (that has a wrist strap tucked inside). Coach is currently carrying THIS .....

FAB python wristlet! Coach price : $198.00. While they are not exact, they are a lil bit similar and mine cost .45 . I will take a chance on .45 vs. $198.00! Although momma LOVES her some Coach.....and I do mean L O V E!

The next category in spin the wheel of thrift is books.....

I have divided them into categories......

Dictionaries:

L to R: THe oxford Dictionary of Quotations (Which I am planning to use as wallpaper in my craft room), The Winston Dictionary For Schools, The American Heritage Dictionary of the English Language - these will come in handy for artsy projects!

This FAB owl graphic is actually a book of birds BUT will make a great fall / halloween decor item.
Speaking of Halloween, these will be on display during this spooktacular time of year! "Hannibal" and "Midnight of the garden of good and evil".
Biographies: L to R

On the Couch - Lorraine Braco

T.R. The Last Romantic - Teddy Roosevelt

The Way You Wear Your Hat - Frank Sinatra

(there is just something so romantic about the Frank Sinatra era)...Can't wait for a rainy day to dig into these!
L to R: English in action (again good graphics and words for future projects), Simple Abundance A daybook of Comfort and Joy and Rainy Day - lil pick me ups for when you're feeling blue.
I got all these for $6.00! I'd love to see all YOUR thrifty finds! Leave me your link! Have a GREAT day!

Grey French

2011-09-12T13:42:00.000-07:00

I wanted a neutral but different color on my fingernails. I started with a warm caramel latte (and didn't wanna keep that because my toes were a deep {almost black} forest green)...then I used "Moon Over Mumbai" by OPI.....liked the sheer and sparkle but didn't wanna put several coats

SO I decided to add "Below The Belt" by essie for a white french tip.....LOVE the way they came out!

Dresser Makeover / Jewelry Shelf

2011-09-10T07:48:00.000-07:00

I feel so guilty for not posting sooner - I have SO much to blog about BUT no time (as I have been knee deep in paint!) so this will be a major picture heavy post!!

As you may or may not know, we recently moved SO that means things that worked before, don't necessarily work at this house! I needed a lil dresser, didn't want to pay a lot of money - have been keeping my eyes peeled while thrifting BUT no luck! After dropping the kids at school I stopped by a garage sale and found this......

NOW, this is one of those pieces that you need you need to have a vision for because looking as it does, not many people would want it! It had good bones, and the price was right.....
SO I sanded it down......
Gave it a coat of silver spray paint and hated it......then I tried a "spa blue".....
And whiel it looks good, it wsn't right for the spot I had planned.....
It was meant to go right under this black shelf....
I LOVE how it looks, I now have a place for (SOME) of my jewelry and perfume storage...
Yes, I wear Brittany Spears 'Believe'...LOVE this fragrance
My girl Tia made this charm bracelet for me.....pearl, starbucks girl, minx.....LOVE it!
When organizing and displaying my jewelry, I like to try and think out of the box.....I believe the stand is a counter tip towel holder.....I have utilized the arms for bracelets, rings, necklaces and watches.....
EVERYTHING looks a lil better on a silver tray!!
These are my Great Aunt's vintage hair combs.....I like keeping them out on display....
Note sure what this lil silver caddy was originally used for BUT it now holds pearls and vintage pins (that I want to make a bouquet out of someday).

Have a GREAT weekend! ENJOY the fab midwest weather!

Goodwill Haunting

2011-09-03T16:57:00.000-07:00

Went to Goodwill in Naperville (this is the BEST GW around....people stand around and wait for the stuff to come out from the back.....there are the crazies that steal stuff out of others people's carts, you get the idea). Anywhoo, they went all out for Halloween! When you walk in this table was there.......

A black dining table, black chairs, a candelabra with deep plum mums, covered in webs, a ghostly menu and black chandy's hanging all over......

If you had to use the restroom, you would be greeted by her.......

(SO CUTE!! A skeleton in a tu-tu for the girls and Mr. Bones sporting a black tie for the boys)
I was so inspired when I left I wanted to come home and decorate for Halloween (BUT NOT until October 1st). All throughout the store there were black chandy's covered in cobwebs and they had the most amazing largest selection of Halloween costumes you've ever seen. If you live near Naperville, this Goodwill is worth a trip! If ya go, lemme know! I will post pics of my treasures soon! Hope y'all have a FAB Labor Day weekend!

FALL Friday

2011-09-02T13:48:00.000-07:00

I can't believe it's been a week since I have posted! I am in the midst of a million projects, trying to get in the swing of back to school, kids sports, getting ready for the flea markets and planning a birthday party! Two weeks ago I stopped in Lowes to find a burnt orange oopsey paint (which I am still on the hunt for) and saw they were having an AWESOME plant sale! Knowing I wanted some plants for some fall color I picked up a few things.....

Here is how my baskets look all planted! I totally LUCKED OUT!! Here's a price breakdown:

Coco lined basket - $1.87

Fuschia mum - .87 (such a STEAL)

Purple Sweet Potato Vine - .25

Purple waxy thing (no clue what its called) - .25

SO for two planters, my total cost was about $5.00!! Fab fall (pretty pop of fuschia) color!!

These plum colored spikes which usually retail for $9.99 each (and they are an ANNUAL - can we say RIP-OFF?!?!?). I LOVE them but have always been too cheap to pay $10.00, but they were on clearance for $2.00 (still expensive to me considering all the other ones were less than a dollar)
I am going to replace the flowers I have in my urn with the spikes for fall....simple and perfect coloring.
I planted this soup tureen with another .25 waxy plant and a 6 pack of moss rose.....
Hope ya have a FABULOUS weekend!

BACK TO SCHOOL

2011-08-30T07:58:00.000-07:00

I can't believe the kids are already back in school - summer FLEW by! For the first day back we had our annual "back to school" breakfast of waffles, whip cream and strawberries.

Did ya notice the cute theme-y plates?!?! I picked up the large clear glass apple plates at Goodwill for .79 / Each JUST for BTSB (Back To School Breakfast). The cute lil bowl the strawberries are in....snagged that for .49!

Every year it has become a tradition that I decorate for "back to school". In our new home we do not have a fireplace....this is the first home in 6 years that I have had that doesn't have a mantle SO, we hung this shelf up to serve as our seasonal tableau.

Each year I add a piece or two to my "back to school decor" box....last year it was these green apples (LOVE them! LOVE the color and how cute they look in the silver dish). The vintage lunchbox and thermos' (one being used as a vase) were picked up at various flea markets for no more than a few dollars.

Found this cute lil granny smith apple towel at a local Goodwill (there were a ton so I am guessing they were clearanced out form some store) NOW, IF I knew how to sew I would've added fun lil fabric ruffles to the bottom.

These wooden trivets I picked up at different times in the year KNOWING I would spray paint granny smith green.....

This wreath I made last year and STILL LOVE it! To see more about it, visit this post here.....http://objectofmayaffection.blogspot.com/2010/09/back-to-school-fall-mantle.html