Tattered Tulips

Hello...

2012-01-14T08:53:00.002-05:00

...is it me you're looking for? (haha...that was a little Lionel Richie joke for my sister)

As you can tell, I took a little break from blogging. We had a busy Christmas season and for a few weeks after I felt completely wiped out! We also visited Todd's parents and my nieces in Michigan, which was a blast!!....but involved the whole packing, unpacking, and laundry fun of traveling.

Of course we baked lots of cookies and watched millions of Christmas movies! We visited Bass Pro Shops...which honestly was not as thrilling as I had hoped. Here were a few other things we did:

We went to Old Spaghetti Factory for dinner and enjoyed the lights downtown. On the same night we mailed our letters to Santa!

We had lots of fun dressing up in Christmas clothes!

We went to Christmas at the Zoo and Evie was a Jr. Dolphin trainer, she LOVED it!

The kids worked hard and were in a Christmas musical with their classmates. McKinley had a speaking part and he did great!

Each one of their classes decorated a themed Christmas tree for a contest as school. McKinley's theme was Indiana and Evie's theme was Dr. Seuss.

We had lots of fun with Elf on the Shelf!

I did something I have always wanted to do and wrapped each kids presents in their own paper, I liked it and plan to keep on doing it every year. Can you spot the gifts from Santa?

They were less than thrilled to have their pictures taken on Christmas Eve in their new pj's.

I hope you all had a blessed Christmas season! We are toying with the idea of listing our house on the market....so I hope it's a busy 2012 full of change for us!

Christmas "Mantle"

2011-12-15T16:45:00.009-05:00

I don't have a fireplace...sadly, that means no mantle to decorate. Not to worry...I improvise and decorate the console table in my living room!

You will probably spot several ideas from my Christmas decorating inspiration post a few weeks ago! Including the feather wreath (made from feather boas on clearance after Halloween), the sticks with ornaments, and lots of peppermint candies.

I ran out of time to make a burlap table runner, so I just put down a piece of burlap in the size I wanted. Guess what? The other day in Pottery Barn, I noticed they did the same thing with their Christmas displays.

Sneak Peek

2011-11-26T22:53:00.000-05:00

I am still trying to find moments here and there to finish my Christmas decorating.

Here is a small sneak peek!

This little display was a grand total of about $3.50. The silver galvanized bucket came from the dollar spot at Target, the glass candlestick from the dollar store and of course candy canes are inexpensive too! The mirror behind was $20 from Home Goods, but I can use it all year round. For now, it reflects the Christmas tree lights on the other side of the room perfectly.

Hopefully, I can share more soon!

Tuesday Tunes?

2011-11-15T13:20:00.000-05:00

How cheesy was that? Oh well...lol

I don't have a lot of time to blog right now...although I am working on my Christmas decorations and can't wait to share them with you...

However, while sitting here working at my desk this afternoon, I have been listening to this song from beautiful Adele. Enjoy!

It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas....

2011-11-01T09:12:00.000-04:00

well, not really just yet! However, I like to put up my Christmas decorations around mid-November. Yep, I do! I don't even apologize for it anymore. I love the warmth they bring to the house and I work a seasonal business that leaves me with no time after Thanksgiving.

Like many of you, I have been compiling Christmas decorating ideas from Pinterest over the last few weeks.

Here are just a few of my favorites that I am hoping to put into action!

Letters on stockings

Decorating with peppermint candies and package bows

Feather boa wreath

Ornaments and twigs

Nutcrackers

Glitter cone trees

White wrapping paper

Christmas printables, of course!

Red and silver ornaments on the tree

Ornaments hanging from apothecary jars and cloches

Santa Buddy

2011-10-29T10:36:00.000-04:00

Like most, I love Christmas music. I also love Michael Buble. A Michael Buble Christmas cd...win-win!

It's on sale this week at Target for $9.99...pick it up and I give you permission to listen to Christmas music before Halloween. lol

Gallery Wall Update

2011-10-24T21:06:00.000-04:00

I love the gallery walls I see that are a mish mash of everything! However, I also love that my gallery wall is only 6 photos and I can easily change them all to match the season or my mood.

Here is my gallery wall updated for fall/winter:

Indianapolis Zoo Boo

2011-10-16T17:36:00.000-04:00

We went to the zoo this weekend and had a lot of fun! It's always a blast to put on your costume to go to the zoo and see everyone else dressed up as well. Evie is wearing a costume that was my sisters from ages ago. She still needs some feathers for the finishing touch, but I ran out of time before Zoo Boo...hopefully I don't run out of time before Halloween!

Tastes of Autumn

2011-10-14T09:23:00.001-04:00

I have a few simple ways to enjoy the flavors of fall with minimal effort on my part! Of course, I love to make apple pies and other more time intensive recipes. However, with a little ready made help these items take no time to give you that autumn feeling...even on your busiest day!

Nutella hot chocolate ~ one cup of milk and two spoons of nutella heated in a saucepan, I add a pinch of cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice.

Limited Edition Philadelphia pumpkin spice cream cheese ~ yummy on a warm bagel!

Pillsbury pumpkin quick bread ~ quick prep time has this baking in your oven in just a few minutes!

"Baked With Love"

2011-10-04T08:01:00.000-04:00

This year I struggled to come up with a Christmas theme, for a custom boutique design, that felt fun and new for me. When I saw this little baker fairy and the fun Christmas cupcake applique designs I knew this is what I wanted to make! My favorite part of the set has got to be the tiny pocket with removable appliqued wooden spoon...that was my daughter's favorite part as well!

I am offering this set on eBay in sizes 2t-8, CLICK HERE to see my listing. Thanks for looking!

Fall Pictures 2011

2011-10-03T08:08:00.001-04:00

Well, we got all dressed up and hair combed to take our family pictures on Saturday evening. I think I should have maybe rented a different lens or used maybe even my kit lens. I had a lot of cute shots that were either our of focus or had one person in the picture out of focus. The perfectionist in me wants to retake them and I am sure a professional photographer can see 100 things I should have done differently. However, I got enough of the shots that I wanted and I am letting it go!!

The Pioneer Woman photoshop elements actions came in really handy on these pictures. I downloaded them for my customs pictures, but never used them much. However, they made the editing of our family pics go a lot faster.

Also, I had grandiose plans of awesome backdrops and fantabulous poses....but in the end we just went to my parents house and used their backyard....and well the poses are your pretty standard poses. I guess in the end it was the people in the picture, not the pose, that was most important me.

Oh and one last thought....If I had the extra money...I so would have payed someone! lol But as it is, I am getting all new photos for my gallery wall, plus a few extra's for $22 shipped. Ok, ENOUGH of my rambling about the pictures...

Todd really like this one and I think it's going on the Christmas cards. Of course, I HATED myself....who likes themselves from the side? But the kids look so cute I will take one for the team! lol

So here they are! Thanks for looking and letting me share!

October

2011-10-01T09:50:00.003-04:00

Aaahh....it's my favorite month of the year. Who doesn't love fall? I think almost every person I know claims it as their favorite season!

This morning I made the kids pumpkin spice hot chocolate...just a little pumpkin pie spice in their cocoa mix. I'm not sure if it would be good enough for Starbucks, but they sure enjoyed it! I have heard a tiny rumor that there is pumpkin spice cream cheese from Philadelphia out there and I am going to go on the hunt for that!

Last year I threw out almost all my fall decorations...so I am starting from scratch this year. I wanted to get an earthy sorta natural feel from my decorations. A picked a few new vases and candlesticks from the dollar store and added some fun colored candy sticks to one vase. Another vase I already had, got some tall birch sticks (also from the dollar store!) while a third new vase received layers of dried beans and peas with a candle. I replaced the summer catch all plate with a cream platter I already had.

The front door got a new grapevine wreath from The Christmas Tree Shoppes...however I could not resist wrapping some fake leaves around the wreath. Earthy and natural or not...I still love fake autumn leaves! lol

Here is the rest of the decorations I came up with in the living room and kitchen....including the yarn wreath I already shared with you.

The printable I made in photoshop with the cookie cutter tool. The glass pumpkins came from the dollar store. I picked up the acorns from Meijer, but also saw them on ebay...and of course you could always go out and find your own real acorns! lol

The Yarn Wreath

2011-09-13T16:28:00.003-04:00

Yeah...I know the yarn wreath is everywhere right now...but I love the way they look and wanted to try my hand at making one. To me, the textures of the yarn and felt just lend themselves to autumn! I had an old styrofoam wreath on hand so that is what I used...I think a thicker wreath might have looked a little better. However, I only spent $2 on yarn and $2.17 on felt to make my wreath.

Here is my wreath and sneak peek at my fall decorations...I have been slowly putting them out over the last week, but haven't reached that point where I love how they look. I threw out almost all my fall decorations last year so I am starting from scratch this year! I promise I will share whatever it is I put out for fall soon.

Apple Orchard

2011-09-06T19:01:00.000-04:00

Labor Day weekend we made a visit to the apple orchard...the weather was just perfect! Crunchy and cool!

The kids had a blast playing on the playground.

Then it was off to pick the perfect apples!

At the barn, we picked up fresh sweet corn, apple butter, elephant ears, cobbler, and corn dogs!

Fall Pictures

2011-09-04T23:12:00.001-04:00

Every year I drag my kids out during autumn and take their pictures. Usually I hit the Gap and find coordinating outfits for them to wear, but this year I haven't had much luck finding anything. Sooo....I went shopping in their closets and found these outfits I already owned!

Now to decide if Todd and I want to be in the pictures as well. Hmm....

I also think I am going to change my photo gallery wall seasonally, I will print these fall pictures to keep on the wall until spring...when I will switch back to our beach pictures. I like that my gallery wall has all pictures from the same photo shoot.

Here are some of past pictures....apparently, I have a thing for hats! lol

Living Room Before & After

2011-09-02T10:07:00.005-04:00

About 8 weeks ago I decided to get over my fear of repainting my living room & kitchen. The paint color was a lovely green that I really did love, but it was feeling too dark and I was ready for a change. Back in January my hubby (who happens to be a professional painter, which works out well for me!) brought home a bunch of samples in the colors I thought I wanted...but in the end I just had him touch up the green...fast forward to July...I was finally ready.

Of course...there are still lots of unfinished projects (covering the bench, I am missing a gallery photo, stainless microwave and stove...the track lighting?!...remember that list I was telling you about?!) but what is the fun in a totally finished space anyway!

I didn't really have many before pictures, here is the last I one snapped...when I look at it I can't believe I even hesitated to repaint!

Before:

AFTER:

I also recovered my cornice boards in a black & white quatrafoil fabric and got all new white curtains. I picked up the bench coffee table for $100 from World Market.

The white slip-covered chairs, Ribba ledges, and frames all came from Ikea. I also picked up new baskets for my Expedit shelf and a reading lamp while I was there.

In the kitchen the cabinets got repainted from cream to bright white. I picked up an apothecary jar for $15 from Homegoods...the lemons came from Target. The 3 pictures were originally Home Interiors and were pictures of vegetables...I found the vintage restaurant sign photographs and added some scrapbook paper behind them. $.99 for scrapbook paper and a few minutes of my time was all it took for a big change above the cabinets!

I love the large charger, which I also picked up at Ikea for $19.99. I am on the hunt for some vintage crates to use on top of the fridge as chip storage.

New Designs

2011-09-01T08:28:00.000-04:00

With the kids being back in school, I have been trying to get back into the swing of sewing new designs for Evie and DillyDally launches.

I love fall and pumpkins and for the last 4 years I have made Evie a pumpkin patch outfit. This year my set has a little twist...a sweet pumpkin patch fairy applique.

CLICK HERE to see my listing on eBay!

Map Art

2011-08-30T08:37:00.004-04:00

I think maps are so interesting and beautiful...so do a lot of others because it seems like maps are everywhere right now! This picture is one of the first things I pinned when I joined Pinterest. I loved the vertical trio of frames with the tall lamp.

When we repainted the living room (which I promise I will show you the whole room soon!!) the poster I had in between the windows did not feel quite right. I remembered 3 pictures frames I had been using on my old gallery wall that I had stuffed in the closet...they worked perfectly!

What I love most is that this project was free and is meaningful to our family. The top map is of our town, the middle map is of my husband's state, and the bottom map we collected on a trip to Disney. I think one of the most important things I have learned from bloggerdom is the realization that I do not have to spend a lot on my wall art. (please pretend not to notice that one curtain is shorter than the other, it's on my "list" ....you probably have one of those "lists" too, right?!)

In case you have forgotten, here was the same wall just a few weeks ago! Don't worry, in a decorating switch the poster (which I still love) has been relocated to the old gallery wall.

What's for Dinner

2011-08-24T18:33:00.001-04:00

Tonight I tried two recipes that Pioneer Woman posted a few days ago. Her Food Network cooking show premiers on Saturday morning and I cannot wait to watch!

Pork Chops with Apples & Creamy Bacon Cheese Grits

Oh my heck....it was delicious!! I didn't make too many changes...I substituted apple juice for the white wine and half & half for the heavy cream. Overall the recipes were easy to make and easy to follow....the only thing I should have done better is cut my bacon into smaller pieces.

I didn't even borrow the picture! lol

OOOOOhhhhh....I forgot! I did use quick cooking grits, simply because that is all I could find at the store. Because of that the grits only needed to simmer for about 7 minutes before I added the cream and shredded cheese.

Two New Recipes

2011-08-23T08:19:00.000-04:00

In the last few days I have tried several new recipes and I wanted to share them with you.

Last night I made this coconut chicken with apricot sauce.

(I borrowed the picture) I also added a little cayenne pepper to my dredging mixture...oh and I added a little soy sauce and water to the apricot sauce to thin it down, I then warmed it before putting it over the chicken.

It was a HIT!! Everyone loved it and cleaned their plates...the yummy sauce even prompted McKinley to eat rice which he usually does not care to eat.

Yield: 4 servings
1 egg
1 cup sweetened coconut flakes
1/2 cup flour
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
4 boneless chicken breasts
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
1/4 cup apricot preserves
2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
Preheat the oven to 400˚F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Lightly beat the egg in a medium bowl; set aside. Mix the coconut, flour, garlic powder, salt and pepper in a shallow bowl. Working with one chicken breast at a time, dip the chicken in the bowl with the beaten egg and then coat with the coconut mixture. Place on the baking sheet. Once all chicken breasts are coated and on the baking sheet, evenly drizzle with the melted butter. Bake for 30 to 40 minutes, flipping once halfway.
To prepare the apricot sauce, mix the apricot preserves and the Dijon mustard in a small bowl. Chill in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

I also tried grilled sweet potatoes with a maple butter sauce from Sunny Anderson on Food Network. I prefer my sweet potatoes really soft and this version left them still a little firm, next time I will bake them in the oven. The maple butter was out of this world!! I licked the spoon a few....dozen times. lol

Ingredients

3 sweet potatoes, each cut into 8 lengthwise wedges
3 tablespoons olive oil
Maple Butter, recipe follows
Flaked sea salt, to taste
1 tablespoon chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley, for garnish

Directions

Heat grill to medium-high heat.

Place the wedges in a large bowl and drizzle with oil. Season with salt and pepper and toss to combine. Place on the grill, cooking on all sides until cooked through, about 10 minutes total. Remove and drizzle or brush with a bit of maple butter, sprinkle with salt and parsley to finish.

Maple Butter:

6 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
1/4 cup maple syrup
1/2 teaspoon allspice

In a bowl, blend the butter, maple syrup and allspice together until light and smooth. Refrigerate and use as a spread or melt and drizzle over pancakes, grilled sweet potatoes or popcorn. Yield: 1/2 cup

Ikea Lack Side Table

2011-08-22T08:50:00.002-04:00

This is nothing new to blog world...but I am loving all the free printables you can find online these days! They are a super simple and inexpensive way to add some whimsy to your decor. Because they are essentially free, you can change them whenever the mood hits! I already have several saved that I can't wait to use for fall and holiday decor.

I found this adorable quote on Pinterest yesterday. You can download your own here.

Here is how mine looks on my little side table.

A few weeks ago while at Ikea with my husband, he threw this little table on the cart at the last second. "I need a place beside the couch to put my drinks" he said....I figured for $7.99, why not at least try it?!

I actually like the way it looks. The white balances out some other darker furniture in our living room. The $2.49 basket (I think I need to spray paint it a different color...silver, maybe?) underneath holds random pillows and of course it keeps my favorite catalogs in easy reach for me to browse when I have a free moment! The wooden tray was something I had seen at Target, I bit the bullet (I say that because the little tray was 2.5 times the cost of the silly table!) and bought it along with some $1 starfish and sand dollars from The Christmas Tree Shoppes.

Cake Pops

2011-08-19T08:33:00.000-04:00

This week my nieces came to visit! We had a blast swimming, going to the Indiana State Fair, shopping, and hitting downtown Indianapolis...somewhere in there we found time to make cake pops!

This was my first attempt at making them...

We took a picture of one of the "pretty" cake pops....but really they all turned out a tad sloppier. We had a little trouble during the dipping phase.

The sloppy pops did not stop us from having a blast eating them though...they were delicious and fun! I think I will make these for birthday snacks at school this year.

The little girls had lots of fun playing dress up for hours!

Mugshots

2011-08-17T08:34:00.003-04:00

Well, it's the first day of school.....I admit, it did a teeny tiny happy dance on the inside. I have had a great summer with my kids, but boredom had definitely set in...it will be good for me to get back to work and them to get back into a routine.

Here are the obligatory I look like I just rolled out of bed because it's the first I've been up early all summer long first day of school pictures! lol

I am cracking up because McKinley agreed to hold the sign at home, but not where anyone could see him. Little did he know these pictures would be on my blog and probably facebook too...heehee...

I am also cracking up because they look like mugshots! Hilarious!

Sugar & spice...and new canisters

2011-08-11T19:21:00.000-04:00

A few weeks ago I shared my inspiration for new chalkboard canisters. The little project is complete and I am loving the new corner of my kitchen!

Things have been busy around here the last week or so and I haven't had much time to cook in my new space. I had the opportunity last night and I am so happy with the way things turned out! I have to admit the whole Ikea knife magnet used to creep me out...but having my knives, canisters, and most used spices (kosher salt, black pepper, minced onion, minced garlic, seasoning salt, and Italian seasoning) right there above long counter makes cooking very seamless!

The chalkboard canisters were the perfect choice for me! I am thinking of adding one more for powdered sugar or whatever else I might be using at the moment. I love that the chalkboard allows me to rewrite what is in the canister and play with the "fonts."

I really wanted the metal scoops and my BFF saw them at Walmart...I ran out that day and picked them up! They were $3.97 for 3. The canisters were from Target and chalkboard contact paper came from Amazon.

In case you had forgotten here was my little kitchen corner before:

When projects don't work....

2011-08-10T10:47:00.000-04:00

Do you remember the last time I showed you my entry way...this was before we repainted everything to light blue...

I loved the leaf prints against the green...but against the light blue they did not work at all, they just blended into the lighter wall color.

I had the idea to repaint the canvases and spray adhesive these fun photo letters that I found at Hobby Lobby for $1.99 each to them. (In case you are wondering the letters spell our last name. lol) Well the project came out pretty good! However...it looked horrible above the new mirror I picked up for over the dresser. (If you haven't heard this...mirrors brighten up spaces and it's true! I love what that little mirror has done for my entry.) The scale was way too large.

Here is a grainy picture I took with my phone to give show you how it looked.

On my last trip to Ikea I picked up some Ribba frames and the scale is much better! I also snagged a large wire basket for $2.49 that fits perfectly under the dresser. It's a great place to stash things that need "returned"...such as library books or Target purchases gone wrong.

I am keeping the canvases and will use them somewhere else in the house. ;) So there is my project that didn't quite work out, more sneaks of my new paint color, and my new entry mirror.

Now I have to make a decision on if I want to paint that dresser or leave it stained...I am on the lookout for a new lamp...I need to pick up some Rub 'N Buff for the dresser knobs...look for a new rug...it never ends!

Never too late...

2011-08-08T09:04:00.000-04:00

...to start new traditions, right?

I have always loved when I see first day of school pictures and the kids are holding a sign telling what grade they are entering. Yet, I have never done this with my own kids....

Today on Pinterest I came across these adorable, FREE, printables. Perfect! CLICK HERE to print your own!

7th Birthday

2011-08-07T09:57:00.006-04:00

I know every mom says this...but seriously...where does the time go? I cannot believe my baby girl is 7! Yesterday was her birthday and in my true fashion I waited until about Wednesday to start planning her party.

Because our house is small and gets hot in the summer, I decided to order pizza. I invited my mom, dad, sisters, and BFF's family. My planning also morphed into a Soda Shop theme...

Stephanie over at room*6 whipped up one of her signature patchwork skirts on Friday for Evie to wear! Make sure you check out her Etsy store! I found the free birthday printable on Pinterest.

Welcome to Evie's Soda Shop! I admit...I wanted to buy cool looking bottles of different soda flavors...but after much debate in the grocery store, I knew the kids would love the little cans and they were $15 cheaper.

I made the little signs in photoshop and my sister helped me with the pizza banner...she also taught me how to make the tissue pom pom's. The "sundae" cupcakes were topped with little cherry candies, sprinkles, and a straw. I was going to do an ice cream toppings bar...but again...after pricing it out root beer floats were more affordable and my kids LOVE them! I did pick up a set of Mason jars to use as our frosty mugs. We rounded out the soda shop with a bright tablecloth, strawberry lemonade, and a little candy bar for the kids to make goody bags.

The kids had a blast and loved their root beer floats!

Happy Birthday dear, sweet Evie! I love you so much!

Sweet & Tangy Pork

2011-08-04T19:01:00.004-04:00

While we were on vacation we ate the most amazing pulled pork! Ever since then I have been trying to replicate the taste...I stumbled upon this recipe and gave it a try today. I think it was pretty close!

Here is what you need, along with a pork loin roast.

In a bowl mix:

Jar of apricot preserves
Minced onion (or chopped fresh onion)
2 Tbs dijon mustard
2 Tbs Soy Sauce

I threw in some salt, pepper, and minced garlic because I figured why not?!

Cook in your slow cooker on low for 8-10 hours, shred and allow it to cook in the juices for another 30 minutes or so...

Here is the final result! This would also be great with cole slaw or thin sliced cucumbers on the sandwich. Tomorrow night we will be having leftovers...pork nachos with cheese and salsa!

Hello Kitty Halloween

2011-07-28T08:24:00.005-04:00

Here is a sneak peek of a little Hello Kitty Halloween set I will be listing tonight! DillyDally is having our first ever Facebook launch and we are all very excited!

To bid or purchase you must "like" the DillyDally fan page: CLICK HERE

Please take a moment to "like" the Tattered Tulips page: CLICK HERE

I love that this set has boutique flair, but is comfy enough for school or even the park!

I also love the "bustling" technique I used on the skirt. To get that look all you do is pinch the fabric and do a button hole stitch! Super easy and would look great on adult skirts or window treatments as well!

This picture just makes me smile! I can't believe my baby girl will be 7 in just over a week.

Squash Carbonara

2011-07-25T18:45:00.004-04:00

Yesterday at the store I picked up a butternut squash...I have never cooked with this before so this morning I went on the hunt for a recipe.

I decided to try this one: CLICK HERE

Butternut Squash Carbonara

(makes 2 servings)
Printable Recipe

Ingredients:
1/2 pound pasta
6 slices bacon (cut into 1 inch slices)
2 cups squash (cut into small pieces)
1 clove garlic (chopped)
1 tablespoon sage (chopped)
pepper to taste
2 egg yolks
2 tablespoons heavy cream
1/4 cup parmigiano reggiano

Directions:
1. Start cooking the pasta.
2. Fry the bacon in a pan.
3. Drain most of the fat from the pan but reserve some to cook the squash.
4. Add the squash, garlic, sage and pepper and toss to coat in the bacon grease.
5. Mix the egg yolk, heavy cream and parmigiano reggiano in a bowl.
6. Drain the cooked pasta reserving some of the water.
7. Add the pasta to the pan and toss.
8. Remove the pan from the heat and wait for the sizzling to stop.
9. Add the egg mixture and toss to coat.
10. Add a bit of the pasta water and toss to mix and coat.
11. Garnish with more sage & serve.

I made a few modifications...

I substituted milk for heavy cream because I did not have cream on hand...I also used a little more pasta and added more milk to make a little more sauce. I also added cubed chicken in with the squash. I sprinkled the chicken and squash with minced onion, garlic, salt, pepper and italian seasoning...I did not have sage or fresh garlic on hand. I cooked them in the bacon drippings until the squash was soft and the chicken was cooked through.

I had to google how to peel a butternut squash...slightly embarassed about that, but never the less...a veggie peeler worked just fine.

Evie helped me crumble the bacon and only ate a little along the way! lol

I thought it was delicious! The kids did not care for the squash (of course...rolling eyes) but they tried a few pieces and ate up the pasta and chicken.

I would estimate that this meal was on the table in less than 30 minutes from start to finish!

Finally, for Stephanie...here is Marlon Brando screaming "Stelllllla" in A Streetcar Named Desire. I don't know why...but this is one of those stupid movie things that Todd and I say all the time. Don't ask...I already told you I don't know why! lol

Don't Forget the Spray Paint

2011-07-22T11:50:00.003-04:00

I have had a set of home interiors vegetable canisters sitting on my counter for the last 5 years. I know you are thinking...ick...home interior, really?! lol I had an aunt that sold it and I got talked into a party...you know how that goes. But really, I loved the canisters!! I just hated the colors of them...

I was all ready to throw them out when my BFF screamed "NOOOOOOOO" dramatically at the top of her lungs in a Marlon Brando "Stelllllla" type voice. Well, that really didn't happen, but she did say no and that I should paint them. Duh?! Why didn't I think of that? Thank goodness for BFF's, everyone should have one.

Here are the new canisters and a sneak peek at my new wall color that I will reveal after I get the curtains back up.

Before (picture borrowed from eBay because, as usual, I forgot a before picture.)

Chalkboard Contact Paper & Canisters

2011-07-15T07:56:00.006-04:00

I've been needing some new kitchen canisters. So I headed over to pinterest for some inspiration and found these:

These glass canisters can be picked up at most any store, I found them at both Walmart and Target. After some debate, I decided to go with the chalkboard style so I could change what was written on the outside of the canister.

I ordered this nifty chalkboard contact paper and can't wait for it to arrive!

This morning, while reading Cape 27 I saw that she did something similar as a place to collect loose change...can we say genius?! We have loose change everywhere and I will be borrowing her cute idea to corral our change!

Picking Paint Colors

2011-07-14T08:10:00.004-04:00

I've decided to go for it and paint my living room and kitchen light blue. I love the green I currently have...but am just feeling restless and ready for something brighter! I am also going to have my hubby repaint the kitchen cabinets white instead of cream and I am going to swap out my cream curtains for white.

Soooo...the last few days I have been trying to decide on a paint color. Blue is a hard color to pick! I don't want it to feel too powdery or too "baby boy".

Here is a tip I learned from Todd about paint colors....if there is a color chip that you mostly love but you feel it is too dark...you can ask the person mixing the paint to only go 1/2 or 3/4 strength on the color. This was exciting news to me!

The first color I picked is on the bottom right and it was way too powdery. I did a lot of looking around at blogs and online rooms trying to get a feel for exactly what I wanted. Shelley over at House of Smiths has upward by Sherwin Williams in her dining nook and I loved it!! However, it was a little too dark for what I was envisioning in my space. This is where the 1/2 strength tip comes into action. The bottom left is 1/2 of the top, which is upward...and that's the color I am going with...cross your fingers for me!

FoodGawker

2011-07-11T17:09:00.003-04:00

My brother in law recently said... "never eat at a restaurant with pictures on the menu."

Hmm....well, I am not a great cook, but I like to look at food! lol This website I recently discovered is probably not new to a lot of you...FoodGawker

I like that you can save your favorites under your account. Here are a few that I have saved in my favorites. Happy food gawking!

Pumpkin Pie Oatmeal

Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars

Chocolate Cheesecake with Peanut Butter Cream...hello?!!!

New Blinds

2011-07-07T10:12:00.001-04:00

We have bamboo blinds in our family room and I love them! I have been looking for something similar to put in the master bedroom, but had not had any luck finding what I wanted. Finally, I found exactly what I was looking for at Christmas Tree Shops...and they were only $16.99 each. I think they make a big difference!

Here was my windows before:

Here they are now:

Photoshop Art

2011-07-06T09:05:00.001-04:00

If you recall, during the spring I was working on updating my master bedroom. Like any project, there was still some things that needed to be finished.

Remember this corner?

Here it is now after a few updates! (please try to ignore the monster tv peeking out) You can also see my new lampshades in the mirror, I love that they add a pop of color and whimsy to the room.
My next project is going to be the desk chair...

I have been obsessed with eye charts lately, I made this eye chart along with the mr & mrs art in my photoshop program. I then printed them on photo paper. I also made the silhouettes of my children in photoshop. Thanks to my affordable homemade "art", I was able to redo this wall for $49...including the little desk lamp, new mirror, and frames!

Here are some links I found helpful in creating my art:

Eye Chart
Silhouettes Tutorial

Fake Coral

2011-07-05T11:43:00.001-04:00

I love the look of coral and it fits perfectly with the beachy feel going on in my house right now...so when I read a tutorial on how to make your own fake coral, I couldn't wait to try it.

I went to Walmart and picked up a few interesting pieces from the aquarium section. The driftwood is sturdy and was $5, the coral piece was $3.77. I have since picked up a few more pieces of coral, but have yet to transform them. This is what I started with...

This is how they ended after just a few coats of white spray paint!

Family Photography

2011-07-02T07:45:00.000-04:00

My dear bff, Stephanie over at room*6, and I have decided to help each other with family photographs. We both have nice cameras and somewhat knowledge of how to use them. We can do this, right?

In preparation, I have been looking at family photographs that I like to get some ideas for how to arrange mom, dad, and the littles.

Definitely my favorite photographs are when you capture a true laugh from everyone in the family! I also love the use of frames, old couches, and placing family members in interesting positions.

What I don't want to end up with is all the pictures being stiff and posed.

I thought I would be able to purchase a new lens for the project, however after a little research the best lens for the job is $1500. I am hoping to borrow or rent one. Stephanie and I will keep you updated on our little project! Do you have a favorite family photo to share with us?

Hello Kitty Geek Chic

2011-06-30T15:00:00.001-04:00

I admit, it's been a challenge for me to juggle my kids being home on summer vacation and my sewing.

I was able to get one set finished though. It's back to school with a twist, Hello Kitty loves nerds.

We had a lot of fun with the modeling on this set, Evie was digging the glasses!

Our Weekend

2011-06-28T11:14:00.000-04:00

My in-laws have been married for 40 years, this month!

As our gift to them, Todd's brother organized the whole family to get together for a professional picture that they can hang on their wall. It took a little work for 3 families, in 3 different states to get there on the same weekend...but we made it work! After the pictures we all went out for dinner, I know his parents had a great time and really appreciated it!

Here were a few pictures that I snapped after the photographer was finished with the group portrait. I have to say that after seeing the professional in action I am motivated to take some classes and get some new equipment for my camera!

Covering a Lampshade

2011-06-20T14:31:00.000-04:00

Awhile back I fell in love with a lampshade covered in script fabric. I promptly ordered some of the fabric from Etsy! When it arrived, I promptly put it in a drawer...where it has sat for almost 6 months.

Today I was determined to recover my lampshade! I bought some spray adhesive and got to work...only to discover that I didn't have enough fabric.

I dug out a different fabric from my stash and decided to experiment anyway.

I do like this fabric covered lampshade better than plain cream, however I don't love the fabric combined with the lamp base...I plan to order more script fabric. I'd also like to repaint the lamp white. Hopefully, by this time next year I will have this little project finished...baby steps.

By the way....spray adhesive is a little tricky to work with and I used this tutorial for tips. CLICK HERE

Vacation

2011-06-17T09:39:00.000-04:00

We have the most amazing time together as a family! I wish we could have stayed a month!

Pop Century waffles from the hotel

Prince Charming

Aaaaargh, matey!

The kids love to get churros

Waiting to ride the Astro Orbiter

The must have Mickey ice cream

Chef Mickeys for dinner

Phineas and Ferb...dad matches too!

Our very favorite taco salads in Magic Kingdom

Evie loves the "ball" ride!

Teacups! Todd and I get it spinning as fast as we possibly can.

Do we get mommy/daddy points for that?!

Peter Pan

My favorite ride in all of DisneyWorld

Graduation Pops

2011-05-30T14:30:00.000-04:00

I saw these on pinterest and thought...hey, those look easy enough! I bet even I can do them. Yeah..you all know where this is going, right?

Of course, they were NOT nearly as easy as they looked and mine did not come out looking like the ones I saw. However, we made a big mess, the kids had a little fun, and they will pass on the table at Evie's little graduation celebration.

I made these with Reeses cups, Ghiradelli squares, a little frosting...oh and M&M's.

Memorial Day Weekend

2011-05-29T20:44:00.000-04:00

One of my favorite parts of early summer is watching the strawberries grow in our little strawberry patch. Every few days we go out and pick the ones that are ready to eat!

Aaah....love simple summer food!

LightScoop & Pinterest

2011-05-26T07:57:00.000-04:00

I need to break down and order this, I have been reading rave reviews on several blogs. Maybe on pay day???

LightScoop

I finally joined pinterest last week. It's a fun little site for you to save ideas and inspiration for yourself...as well as see what your friends are pinterested in! You need an invite to the website, but if you CLICK HERE Beth over at A2Z has an open invite for you.

Oh...and don't forget to follow me (LaNae Ball) if you sign up...I want to see what you are pinterested in. :) :)

Spring Soccer 2011

2011-05-23T15:22:00.001-04:00

Action Shots!

The coveted trophies!

Evie and Wyatt

Green Thumb

2011-05-22T19:51:00.000-04:00

yep, I definitely don't have a green thumb.

However, 12 years ago, when we moved into our house, I bought two iris plants and not only have I not killed them....they have multiplied like crazy. Heck, I have even dug a bunch up and thrown them out and I still have too many!!

Keep Calm & Carry On

2011-05-15T19:00:00.000-04:00

ok, ok....I know this poster is everywhere right now, but I love it! I caved to the hype and bought it for the big empty wall left in our living room when we moved the tv to a different wall.

The good part is that the frame was $25 and the poster was only $13. I now have a good poster frame and I can change the poster for relatively cheap when the next fad comes along.

I keep admiring this poster size picture everytime I pass it in Target, I need to just buy it already. CLICK HERE

This week...

2011-05-13T15:45:00.000-04:00

Not to many exciting things going on here this week, but I had a few things to show you. The first is my planters that Todd hung for me. I need to trim the coco liners and the baskets might be a tad small for the windows.....but they had been hanging on the fence in our backyard, unused, for two years. Think free! Well, except for the adorable daisies that Evie picked for me to plant in them.

The second thing is a letter art that I made for my Mother-in-Law. I made it last week, but have been waiting to share since I didn't want her to see her gift on my blog. My in-laws are on their way from Michigan as I type, so I think it's safe to share now!

A few weeks ago I was at Von Maur and saw these cool letter art pictures for sale. However, each letter was $8 each in addition to the frame...not happening! My friend helped me find the letters online and I did this project much more affordably. In case you are wondering, Ball is her last name. ;)

Oh one last thing, I listed this little princess set on eBay. Evie chose Belle as her favorite princess, but you can choose whatever princess you would like for your applique. CLICK HERE to see my auction. This dress is really comfy and Evie has already asked to wear it several times this week.

Anna's Graduation

2011-05-09T16:12:00.000-04:00

My sister, Anna, graduated from Bible College this past weekend. Here are a few pics of the little party my mom threw for her.

Mother's Day was wonderful! I slept in while the kids went with Daddy and picked up Dunkin Donuts to surprise me. They also planted some gerber daisies in new window box planters on the front of the house, I will post pictures soon. We also went to lunch with my parents and sisters...after which I took a 3 hour nap! Heaven!

Giggle

2011-05-02T07:53:00.000-04:00

This struck me funny this morning...especially since I just caved to the hype and bought the "Keep Calm and Carry On" poster for my living room. I'll post pictures of that later. ;) I would post pictures now, but the chair in front of the poster is currently being occupied by Mt. Laundry.

Happy Monday!

Sneaky Peeky & Brotherly Love

2011-04-26T21:47:00.000-04:00

Here is a sneak peek of my Cinderella set that I will be listing on Thurdsay! Stay tuned for more!

But the real reason I wanted to share this picture is because McKinley tagged along for pictures today and Evie is looking at him in this picture. I love how much my kids love each other and it sure shows on her face here. <3 Like many little boys, McKinley has his naughty moments! However, I am confident he would level anyone who messed with his little sister. He not only watches out for her in the big stuff, but he helps her with the little stuff too...like making breakfast or learning how to play a new DS game.

Often I am sad that Evie does not have a sister, but having an awesome brother isn't so bad either!

Easter 2011

2011-04-24T18:19:00.001-04:00

I have been corrected! Several readers are telling me that they do indeed dying eggs! I already have one of those readers lined up to complete the task with my kids next year. LOL

Not many pictures from today...McKinley is in that kid phase where all of his picture smiles are a little awkward.

It was another Indiana Easter with an indoor egg hunt, but the kids still had fun. Wonderful church service, followed by a great time with family....Happy Easter! AND Happy Birthday to my Mom!

Egg Family

2011-04-23T16:27:00.000-04:00

I am not sure I have met a mom yet who really likes dying Easter eggs! lol But of course the kids love it.

Here are our finished eggs for 2011. This year the kids picked an egg kit that came with silly face stickers.

Don't mind the kids justoutoftheshower look...they are getting ready for the big Easter service tomorrow morning.

Pear Trees

2011-04-20T08:12:00.000-04:00

Here in central Indiana these pear trees are everywhere! I am sure they are planted in abundance because they grow fast and are low maintenance. I love these little trees. When winter is taking over the state with all it's grayness...they are the last trees to lose their leaves. They hang on and give us one last burst of color for the season...and just when you think you cannot possibly take one more gray winter day, they are the first trees to develop spring buds. Not only do they get buds, those buds turn to beautiful white flowers. The trees proclaim that spring is finally here!

The other day a friend of mine on facebook complained about these trees because "they smell and they are only pretty for a few weeks." I was shocked! Then saddened. Many, many times throughout the different seasons I drive around the city and soak up the gifts that these trees are giving. We are lucky to have beautiful things that God creates for us...even if it is only for a few weeks. I felt the urge to defend the little trees to her, but didn't. lol

The pear tree in our backyard is the longtime home of a bird nest, I think every year a different family takes over the nest. We are hoping this year to have some cardinals take it over.

Can you see the nest in there?

Bedroom Updates

2011-04-15T17:09:00.000-04:00

Hubby has been working really hard the last few weeks and our new bedroom floor is complete!

It's not real hardwood, but for $70 plus $200 in giftcards from our debit card rewards...this laminate worked for our budget.

I also added a new mirror above the bed. I will keep my eye out for a good deal on a chunkier sunburst mirror, for now this $25 mirror from Target fills the spot.

The room is a work in progress, but those are the latest updates! I am still on the lookout for new lampshades and I would like to tackle making a white headboard slipcover from a sheet.

Book Character Day

2011-04-14T07:54:00.000-04:00

Evie was Belle from Beauty and the Beast, McKinley was Hiccup from How to Train Your Dragon. Those old Halloween costumes are coming in handy for Evie...and I can I just say that this mommy is happy spirit week is almost over.

Decades Day

2011-04-13T08:02:00.001-04:00

Well, McKinley was the same thing as he was last year...fifties. This horrible mommy is not going to spend a bunch of money on a costume for decades day at school and we don't have any neon hammer pants or bell bottoms lying around.

Luckily, Evie was a fifties girl for Halloween! ;)

Nerd Day

2011-04-12T07:53:00.001-04:00

It's spirit week at school and today was nerd day! The kids had some fun with their clothes, even though I think they fall more into the mismatched category. Last night I realized that nerd gear wasn't in high supply here, so we went with what we had!

Ebay, Ebay...

2011-04-01T11:53:00.000-04:00

This morning I got the chance to list a few of Evie's outgrown clothes on eBay.

Please take a peek! If you are interested in purchasing anything I can end the listing and take 10% off the Buy It Now price.

CLICK HERE

Organizing Small Rooms

2011-03-28T08:54:00.000-04:00

McKinley's room was driving me crazy! Mismatched furniture was taking up too much space and not meeting his needs.

Here was McKinley's room before:

After a little help from Todd on the first shelf....McKinley put the last two together by himself!

I decided to purchase 3 cube shelves to line the long wall in his room and they have been working out great. They provide plenty of space for uniforms, pajamas, and undies.....with enough left over for him to display his most prized possesions. They also take up very little space and elminate the need for a bookshelf and bulky dresser.

AFTER:

My kids are getting to that older age where their rooms need to be more "them" and less decorated the way mommy wants. A large corkboard and magnetic board from Ikea allow him to hang whatever he wants without putting holes everywhere.

A small board with funky brackets makes a small desk, just right for homework or building a lego ship, while elminating the need for a large desk. I think it also gives an slightly industrial look to them room.

The walls are still a work in progress, but so far I added his initials over the window and found some fun license plate related pictures to hang. One license plate is off the car we had when we got married in 1998....McKinley thought was was pretty cool to have an "antique" license plate! lol

Bedroom Paint

2011-03-27T10:36:00.000-04:00

Here was my bedroom before:

Here is my new master bedding and paint color. We also got bed risers to make the bed taller. The white and gray has a much more soothing feel to me.

It's a good start but there are several projects I need to finish before the room is complete.

This corner used to be the home of an overstuffed chair. That chair made it's way to the kids playroom and I put my Grandma's desk here. Mainly because I didn't have anywhere else in the house to put the desk. My plan is to find a big mirror for over the desk to give it the feel of a "vanity"....and to redo the chair.

Next project is new flooring. The carpet has definitely seen better days! Thanks to points from our debit card we are going to be getting new hardwood laminate for practically free.

I am also on the lookout for something to hang on the wall over the bed. I would love to find an affordable sumburst mirror! I have seen several tutorials....but I dunno, I would rather just buy one!

The tan lampshades aren't working anymore.

New Chair & Other Randomness

2011-03-26T19:27:00.001-04:00

I fell in love with this little chair the minute I saw it at World Market! I thought it over for a few weeks before I pulled the trigger and made the purchase.

Here is a sneak peek of my new TV shelf...which is still waiting for proper decorations. My next project is to build a gallery wall around the TV. I have seen several pictures of gallery walls where you do a double take before you realize there is a TV...that is my goal!

Finally here are a few new things around the house. I picked up these awesome glass candlesticks for $14 at Hobby Lobby. I love their chunkiness! The globe I grabbed some time ago at Christmas Tree Shops for $10...it has been hanging out, waiting for the right home.

I also found these fun botanical canvas prints for $3.99 each Christmas Tree Shops! They work great above the dresser in my entryway. If you notice, one of the glass jars is still waiting to be filled...I'll get to it...eventually!

Wizard of Oz

2011-03-25T08:12:00.000-04:00

I have been holding onto this fabric for 4 years! I decided the DillyDally Throwback launch was a good time to use it.

CLICK HERE to see the listing

This week Todd repainted my master bedroom...a really pretty gray and I love it! I will post pictures next week.

He was also willing to repaint my living room and kitchen....but....I could not decide on a color! He even bought me a few sample quarts and I still couldn't decide. In the end, he touched up the green color I already have. I know bloggers everywhere are gasping in horror. lol

NetFlix

2011-03-17T20:05:00.000-04:00

My husband signed us up for Netflix. He didn't ask me, which is probably a good thing because I would have said no. Buuuuuut....I love it!! The kids can watch almost all their favorite shows instantly with no commercials telling them they *NEED* this or that thing. Plus, I can watch my favorite shows on the computer while I am sewing, I won't divulge how many seasons of Law & Order:SVU I have watched so far! lol

But the best part are all the old movies I have been "renting" on DVD.

This week was: "It's a Mad, Mad, Mad, Mad World"

I'm sorry, they just don't make movies like this anymore!

Last week was: "It Happened One Night"

Todd was skeptical, I mean how good could a movie from 1934 be anyway? But of course, the movie won him over.

Insomnia & Coffee Tables

2011-03-16T01:11:00.001-04:00

The whole "spring forward" thing is messing with me! 1:11 A.M.....I should have been asleep ages ago. Oh well, I figured now was as good a time as any to look at coffee tables.

I haven't had a coffee table in years, but I recently changed up my living room a bit and I think a coffee table would work nicely in there now.

I love the tv show American Pickers. A few months ago, I saw them buy an awesome cart that they said they would sell as a coffee table...since that episode it seems I am seeing these cart tables everywhere! Sadly, they are $$$$...unless, of course, you are one of the uber lucky people who stumbles on one at a garage sale. I doubt I would fall in the uber lucky people category.

This one caught my eye at World Market...hmmm....$279, better than $1000, but probably still over budget. Either I will start saving or maybe I can sweet talk dear hubby into the Ana White make it yourself version. We'll see...

Green Beans

2011-03-12T16:17:00.001-05:00

Isn't it funny how the simplest things can become some of our fondest memories? My grandma and grandpa had a big garden. The garden was filled with tidy rows of everything from cabbage to pumpkins. There was even a rhubarb plant. ick.

I remember snapping fresh green beans from the garden with my grandma many times.

I don't have a big garden, probably never will. But at least I can snap green beans with my kids. Thank you Meijer produce department. :)

By the way...never miss an opportunity to practice your cross-eye skills!

The Weekend

2011-03-06T17:06:00.000-05:00

Complete with low quality cell phone pictures.

Yesterday, I worked on a custom request for a sweet customer. Here is a sneak peek...

This morning was church. My grandma took McKinley home for the afternoon and the rest of us went to Carrabba's for lunch! Can I just say I am happy that my son will be old enough to remember spending time with his great grandma? Very neat. :)

Anyway, here are a few pictures from lunch. Why my girly girl daughter always picks the lizards, snakes, and various other critters in the Sunday School treat bucket...I will never know. But hey...a lizards gotta eat too.

Evie enjoying her Tiramisu for dessert.

Bird Pillow

2011-03-01T09:25:00.000-05:00

A few weeks ago I stopped in TJ Maxx to get Evie some of those dresses with matching American Girl dresses. Of course I had to swing through the home department...this pillow caught my eye and I couldn't leave it there! So $16.99 later, it's mine and I love it.

Barbie Girl

2011-02-25T10:41:00.000-05:00

Evie has been asking for a Barbie outfit! She even brought me a picture of a Barbie outfit that she liked and asked me to make it look the same. lol

CLICK HERE to see my listing.

Seussy Fun

2011-02-23T08:34:00.000-05:00

This set was an order from a customer...she was sweet and let me snap a few pictures!

I am hoping to make something Seussy for Evie now! Typically, I am not a fan of Seuss sets...but Evie was so excited to see green eggs and ham on a dress because they had that for 100's day at school! I am a Seuss convert.

Cream Cheese Chicken

2011-02-19T17:33:00.000-05:00

Remember...I am not a good cook and I don't really enjoy cooking. However, my family still needs to eat. Imagine that? Anyway, here is a recipe we have all enjoyed over the years.

You throw all these things in the crock pot:

Frozen chicken breast
One block of cream cheese
One package of Italian dressing mix
One can cream of chicken soup

Some people get all fancy with seasonings, butter, etc...not me. Just those four ingredients. (however, feel free to go nuts and get fancy of that works for you) Somehow it bakes down to this yummy chicken in white sauce that is awesome over rice or noodles with broccoli. I am so lazy I did not even take the picture on this post...but that is pretty much how my cream cheese chicken comes out looking.

This is where the super lazy me comes into play. I put a lot of chicken in there...because the leftover chicken works great in chicken and noodles and chicken enchiladas. Yes, that's right. 3 meals from one crock pot of chicken.

Chicken Enchiladas:

Flour Tortillas
Shredded cheddar or Mexican cheese

Filling:
Leftover Chicken
1/2 tub of sour cream
Can fiesta nacho cheese soup
Taco seasoning

Think lasagna, and layer the tortillas, filling, and shredded cheese however you want...bake it for about 25 minutes.

If you are looking for gourmet recipes, you might want to check out a different blog! lol These recipes feed 'em and don't keep me in the kitchen long. If you have any similar recipes, I would love for you to share them!

Dress Down Day

2011-02-17T07:52:00.000-05:00

Well, at least Evie sorta chose a custom! lol

Upcycled Barbie dress...

McKinley chose his Peyton Manning jersey.

Sweet Rocker Girls

2011-02-15T22:43:00.000-05:00

I was so honored when Cammie from My Little Fairytales invited me to be her guest in the Polkadotz anniversary launch.

Here is the sweet rocker girl set I came up with. Evie usually never has an opinion and she loved it, so that makes it all worth it to me!

CLICK HERE to see my listing

Our Valentine's Day

2011-02-14T18:24:00.000-05:00

Grocery store flowers

Treats from mom and dad

Some of the loot from school

Heart shaped pizza from Papa Murphy's...something we started getting for Valentine's day when McKinley was only 6 months old.

Ramblings about love...

2011-02-13T06:52:00.000-05:00

Isn't it funny how your idea what a great date is changes over the years?

First off, thank you mom and Anna for keeping the littles all weekend. :)

A few years ago, my ideal date would have been something that took a lot of planning. Maybe a fancy dinner? Maybe going out of town?

Last night we went out for a casual dinner, he took me to TWO different craft stores, and we ended up home by 7pm...watching a movie on the couch. How boring is that?! But I had a great time just being with him.

He did bring me grocery store flowers and had the kids pick me out a Valentines day card and candy for me. I love that! Who wouldn't love a Valentine card signed...love, son. lol Secretly though, my favorite card is the Prince of Persia valentine that McKinley spontaneously gave me the other day. When I told him how much I loved it he said "well, I had a ton extra." LOL!! Kids!

I have been slowly reading "One Thousand Gifts" by Ann Voskamp. Reading that book combined with some untimely deaths at our church has given me alot of things to think about. Live fully, pay complete attention to each moment, be thankful. It's so much easier to do those things than spend time looking for the faults in the people we love.

Something I am thankful for often is my parents and in-laws. Both couples have been married for something in the 40ish years range. And both couples are "real". It's such a blessing for my marriage to see that their marriages are not always roses...or even grocery store flowers.

Happy Valentines Day weekend!

Stay Away From Me Lucky Charms

2011-02-11T07:02:00.000-05:00

This week, I worked on a rainbow Hello Kitty set. In all honesty, St. Patrcick's day sets don't usually get me very excited...but I fell in love with this fabric! The nice thing is I think it's perfect to wear all spring and summer long. Not over the top St. Patty's!

I am still struggling with indoor pictures, but my new flash came this week! I can't wait to play with it, I have to find batteries first. I was in a hurry to take pictures before the sun set yesterday so I snapped these pictures without the new flash.

In other news, while watching HGTV this morning I saw one of these chairs...I would love to find a vintage wood office chair for my house. They are so neat! At least, that's my opinion. Oh and a utility chair, I want a utility chair for my kitchen. While we are talking about chairs...I would also like one of those funky metal outdoor chairs for my front stoop.

Upcycled Dresses

2011-02-10T07:25:00.000-05:00

I have been admiring these adorable little dresses on Etsy for some time! I looked everywhere for a tutorial and couldn't find just what I was looking for to help me make one for Evie. I love the DillyDally gals...they gave me some guidance and I tested a few out this week.

Yesterday, I made her two more that fit horribly. I felt very discouraged. But this morning, I am reminded that sewing is a learning process and my mistakes yesterday will help me today. Don't give up if you have a sewing snafoo...keeping moving forward! I also am reminded of what a good nights sleep can do for body and soul. lol

Here is sneak of the few I made that actually fit! Hopefully, I will be able to post a tutorial soon.

Tangled

2011-02-06T17:41:00.000-05:00

I made this set for Evie back in October. At the time, I was not able to list it because of time constraints. She loves the set and wore it to church this morning, so I snapped a few pictures! Hopefully, I will be listing it soon...stay tuned.

Ribbons and Barbie

2011-02-05T20:48:00.000-05:00

I am easing back into sewing...it feels like one step forward, two steps backwards right now. Today I started working on an outfit requested by Evie...Barbie. Here is a litte peek...

It seems I like to use ribbon in my designs...I had quite a stash! However, over the last year my stash has dwindled away. Lucky for me, ribbon was 50% off at Hobby Lobby and $9 bought me a cute little ribbon stack to play with! I know, I know...the flash is glaring off the packages, but that's what I got right now because it's night. It's still a cute stack...I think...

Also today...I have been thanking God for winter. Snow, ice, and cold...NOTHING, and I mean nothing, makes you appreciate the new life and glory of Spring more than those three things. I am a fall girl, I love the crunchy weather. But I have to admit, Spring is creeping up there as my favorite season.

Snow Day

2011-02-01T09:37:00.000-05:00

It's our first snow day of the year...and it didn't even snow! Instead we got ice!

Todd and I made the obligatory "white death" grocery run yesterday and are loaded up with milk, eggs, snacks, toilet paper, candles, and kerosene for the heater. I REALLY hope we do not have to use the kerosene, I can handle being stuck at home with cable tv and the internet...not so much without those things. lol

We started our day with Rhodes cinnamon rolls...yum!

Tattered Tulips - Little Sailor

2011-01-28T20:18:00.000-05:00

I am so excited to be listing on ebay again...after a little break to focus on my seasonal Christmas job.

This 3 piece set is available in sizes 18m-8. CLICK HERE to see the auction.

Oh and much do you love the matching brother outfit?! It definitely makes me long for the days when McKinley was a little younger and I dressed the kids matchy matchy from head to toe! Don't worry though, I was able to grab him a sorta matching shirt from Gymboree! lol

The Zebra Throw and It's Magic Powers

2011-01-25T08:08:00.000-05:00

Todd is always cold. He hates winter. This presents a problem when you live in Indiana because we have cold winters. Around Christmastime Target advertised a heated throw, I knew it would be the perfect gift for him. When I finally made it to Target my only choice was zebra...I convinced myself that zebra print could be considered a neutral and match any decor. lol

Needless to say, he loves the throw and so does everyone else. Every single person in my family has at one point or another laid down on the couch with the throw and fallen asleep. Even members of the family *cough*kids*cough* who would never take a nap of their own free will!

Like my laundry that needs folded?

Really Great Blog Post

2011-01-22T07:46:00.001-05:00

So....here I was the other day reading away in blogland...looking for inspiration. I don't remember how, but I came across this amazing blog. She had great ideas, great pictures, and her house looked perfect!! Sigh...

While reading her blog I see THIS POST about her real house, real mess, real life. Do you have any idea how good it made me feel to see that this creative woman with a gorgeous house, doesn't always have it picture perfect?! Especially her master closet..I am kind of attached to my slightly messy master closet, it works for me.

I recently read a quote about working so hard to make a perfect house we forget that it's a perfect home. It's a good reminder to me that my house is a haven for my family to live, not a place that must be on the ready at all times in case someone stops by.

Guess what? I have been working on embracing my mess this year! So what if I have a laundry basket of things I found under my bed (things that need new homes) sitting in my master bedroom...I'll get to it eventually. Hey! At least I cleaned under my bed, right? So what if my tupperware isn't perfectly organized? At least I mostly know where it is and can usually find some sort of container when I need it.

Don't get me wrong, I still want a home that is organized to fit our life. I still cleaned out my pantry this week and felt good about myself and am now a tiny bit more organized. But some things can be let go and when I get to them, I get to them.

In the spirit of this post...check out the dust under the console in my living room! Eek! I think I will tackle that today. Eh, or maybe I will go shopping with my family instead, we'll see...

If you want to see even more real life messes, check out THIS linky party. Oh and, I just really don't think I can bring myself to paint that console.

To Paint or Not To Paint...

2011-01-19T19:49:00.001-05:00

that is the question I am struggling with right now. I have a beautiful desk that was my grandma's...she had it in her living room as long as I can ever remember. When she passed away, I inherited the desk and put it in McKinley's room. With his new storage (more about that later) the desk didn't fit in his room anymore and it has migrated to the living room.

I don't know if it's the winter doldrums or what, but all the wood furniture in my living room is feeling so heavy, I want to paint it all white! But for some reason I keep stopping myself. It's so much harder to paint something that you did not pick up at a garage sale, goodwill, or on craigslist. I don't know if that makes sense? I ask myself if painting this desk will make me happier or will it just make me sad to see it changed from the way I remember it in my grandma's house?

Then there is the chest where our tv sits...it has really pretty wood inlay...should I paint that? I will show you a picture of that tomorrow, after I dust underneath.

Oh and about the desk, I know it needs a little TLC. Todd knows too. ;) lol I also do not plan on leaving the vases, crayon, and magazines on the top, it's still in transition!

PS. remind me to show you the amazing end table I also inherited from her, it will remain in my home forever...untouched.

Fabric Wreath

2011-01-16T08:13:00.000-05:00

When my dear friend, Stephanie over at room*6, made one of these adorable fabric wreaths...I loved it! I knew I wanted to try making one of my own and the perfect little spot in Evie's room presented itself for a fabric wreath.

It definitely takes some trial and error getting your strips just right, but I found that I liked my strips about 10 inches long and about 1.5 inches wide. Just use whatever scrap fabric, ribbon, or tulle, that you have on hand...and tie it in knots around a styrofoam wreath. It took me about an hour to make Evie's and she was able to help, a great project to do with your kids.

We utilized a small wall in Evie's room for some corkboards! I don't know about you...but my kids are always hanging things on their walls...holes everywhere! Drives me crazy! These boards were $2.50 from the Target dollarspot. I recovered them in fun fabrics and hung them low so she could easily reach them. I am crossing my fingers this will mean less holes on all the other walls! If you can't beat 'em, join'em, right?!

Sneak Peeks...

2011-01-13T16:21:00.000-05:00

Well. I just got an email from Target that Evie's bedding I ordered is going to be delayed. So....it might be awhile before I get to post her big room reveal!

In the meantime, here are a few sneak peeks of her room.

I think even my ultra organized friend, Stephanie, was proud of me for this drawer! (Please ignore the spot on the drawer, I think my camera lens had something on it?! ugh! lol) Of course, only I would see the problem with this beautiful drawer...there is no room for more new tights!! Unless...I get rid of some pairs and where is the fun in that?

Organization Diaries

2011-01-12T16:17:00.000-05:00

I am the worst organizer ever. Truly.

But here are a few things that are working for me, so I thought I would share with you. I read on The Nester that if something is always lying around your home then it becomes part of your decor...so you might as well make it cute! (I am paraphrasing) That is so true. The first thing I thought of when I read that was the coats and backpacks that the kids bring in with them everyday at 3:00.

My solution was to add a little rack to the small hallway wall near their bedrooms. Each one of them gets 3 hooks and a small chalkboard. The chalkboards also come in handy for me to jot down notes of things I need to remember for school. (this week, Evie needs me to send a check for more lunches.)

The other thing that is working well for me is this little hanging rack from Ikea. I put it my bathroom...the tiny jars keep bobby pins, ponytails holders, and other items within easy reach. The hooks work great for my mirrors and brushes. Now listen, those items aren't the prettiest to look at...but I use them everyday and I love having them somewhat neat and at arms reach.

Next on the agenda...remote control storage and a new magazine basket.

DillyDally Giveaway!

2011-01-07T07:22:00.001-05:00

The DillyDally District is celebrating 500 fans with a giveaway!

"Simply become a fan...leave a comment, heart, or XOXO on the giveaway thread and you are entered to win a custom Valentine skirt from Room*6!"

Here is the fan page!Good luck!!!

Master Bedroom

2011-01-06T08:21:00.000-05:00

I'm in a pickle.

I fell in love with this pillow.

So Todd got me the matching bedding from Target for Christmas and I love it!

However, it doesn't match the curtains, bedskirt, and headboard fabric I have right now....so all those things need to be changed. The pickle is I can't make up my mind!

I bought brown curtains and they look nice, but I don't want a brown headboard...too much brown. White or cream doesn't really look right since the bedding isn't really either...more of a winter white.

Here is my room right now, well this was actually almost 3 years ago and the bedding is definitely not as nice now as it was then. Oh...and I can't change the wall color. A) because I do not feel like repainting. B) because I would lose my little wall saying and I still like it.

Any ideas?

I'll keep you updated on my little master bedroom update.

Clean Slate

2011-01-05T09:19:00.000-05:00

Over the last few days I have made a long list of goals for 2011. Mostly they are related to getting my home more organized, more functional, and the decor a litte more updated. There are some other things on the list, beyond just my house. Did I say the list was long? It is. Maybe I will accomplish everything on the list before the year is over and then I can make a new list.

I was thinking this morning of HOW I would accomplish these goals and I think I have it boiled down to what my major goals for the year should be...just a little less and a little more. Doesn't seem so overwhelming this way.

More Sleeping
More Exercising
More Relaxing
Less Eating
Less Working
Less Stress

I miss the cozy, magical feeling of Christmas. I also dislike January and February most of all...dreary, cold months in Indiana. But you have have to admit, there is something wonderfully fresh about a new year! A clean slate.

(P.S. Remember the lost glue gun? I need to find it.)

Long Day

2011-01-04T20:48:00.000-05:00

But overall a happy day!

An over 500 mile journey, 11 hours, one awesome grandpa picking the kids up from school and babysitting them later...we got our new (to us) car! Errr...van. Oh boy, I caved and got a minivan. (Penny, are you proud? lol) But she's cute and I like her.

Thanks for letting me share!

I am losing the war...

2011-01-03T08:46:00.001-05:00

against the clutter in the rooms of my children! It's driving me nuts.

Sometime this week I am hoping to make it to Ikea for some of this Stuva storage. Let's home it at least helps me win a battle or two!

Also this week, used car shopping. Our car has served us well, but is not as nice as she once was. (Yes...our car is a girl and her name is "Erbie".) Making a decision on which car to purchase has been harder than I anticipated! I feel alot of pressure to make the right choice!

But for today...it's TIME to clean up this house and get the Christmas toys organized...finally! In my defense, we did head to Michigan to spend some time with Todd's family last week.

Happy New Year!

Ischl Tartlets & Christmas Eve

2010-12-26T22:28:00.001-05:00

Ischl Tartlets are a cookie I started making for Christmas a few years ago...I love their flavor and elegant appearance. CLICK HERE for the recipe.

I swiped the cookie cutters I use from my mom...thanks mom! lol However, mine (hers) are getting a little worn out and I have been scoping out a new set on Amazon.

Christmas Eve is always a fun time at my Grandma's house...although I have no pictures to share! You will just have to take my word that the "cookie bar" is fabulous and the appetizer dinner spread will leave you so full you can barely get off the couch.

After we come home the kids always get new pj's...this year I added a book as well. It's a fun tradition that my mom did, and still does, for me and my sisters. You are never too old for new pajamas, right?

Here they are ready to hop in bed and here is our stash after Santa visited! Stay tuned for a few Christmas morning pictures.

Sugar Cookies

2010-12-23T15:19:00.000-05:00

I admit it, I don't enjoy making sugar cookies. Gasp! Maybe the mess it leaves behind has something to do with my scrooginess about it?

Today, I got myself up for the task and we forged ahead! You know what though, it turned out pretty nice! There were a few squabbles, but by the end of decorating...my "too cool" son was singing Christmas carols off key and they were taking turn with the sprinkles and icing.

Here is the finished product and a few of our other goodies we have baked...mint chocolate chip cookies and pistachio cranberry cookies. I remember dipping pretzels with my grandma, so I try to keep the tradition alive.

Christmas Getaway

2010-12-22T20:48:00.000-05:00

With our seasonal holiday business, Todd and I have to work alot of hours during the month of December. Luckily, we get to take the week of Christmas off and we have been looking forward to this little getaway for some time! We used a groupon coupon to stay in the Embassy Suites in downtown Indianapolis for one night. We walked around downtown, sipping hot chocolate...looking at the lights and decorations! We also squeezed in dinner at the Old Spaghetti Factory and a carriage ride. After that, we walked back and warmed up in our room, while we watched Secretariat on pay per view. The kids had a blast in the "suite" and pigged out at the complimentary breakfast, they have decided they want to live there!

Here are a few pictures from our evening, please excuse McKinley's coat...we had an unfortunate incident with the hot chocolate!

Evie lost her front tooth...

2010-12-19T22:14:00.001-05:00

she looks so different!!

A few pictures from the Christmas concert at church today. Wish I had taken a few more of Evie's dress...the three wisemen are on one side, a shepard and his sheep are on the other.

Last School Day of the Year 2010

2010-12-17T19:34:00.000-05:00

and it was a dress down day!! I love dress down days...if you know me...you know I strongly dislike uniforms! lol If you love them, don't try to convince me why they are great...I probably will not change my mind.

Here are a few pictures of the kids this morning, I think they were a little tired from several nights of staying up late with Christmas festivities!

Tweeking, Tinkering, Fiddling...

2010-12-12T10:27:00.000-05:00

whatever you want to call it, that is what I do. I put up a decoration, Christmas or non-Christmas, and as it sits there for a few days I will decide it needs this or that...then I tweek it, fiddle with it...

So, another $7 in plates and a $15 wreath later, this is the top of my cabinets. I also added a $3 poinsetta to the other side of my cabinets. I think I might be done tweeking with the cabinets, but who knows?! lol

This is next idea is crafting Tattered Tulips style! I love to spend hours on appliques and ruffles...for the most part I know where all my sewing notions, fabrics, machines and trims are located.....BUT...I can't tell you where I put my hot glue gun. Anyway...a little tape, a little leftover ribbon...and my inexpensive (or cheap if you want to call them that) candles are a tad more festive!

I picked up this litte 12 days of Christmas thing from Target for $10. It starts tomorrow and each little packet contains a few pieces of candy. A fun little twist on the traditional advent calendar and it can be reused next year! With different candy, of course!

Saturday, the 11th of December

2010-12-11T20:25:00.000-05:00

Today we went out to breakfast and did a little shopping...followed by a little baking.

We did a simple project I read about in a cookie magazine I picked up this week. You start with ready made peanut butter cookie dough...a few chocolate chips, broken pretzels, and red hot candies later you have little reindeer cookies! The kids had a blast making them plus it was quick and easy with minimal clean up. The other cookies we made today are called peppermint meltaways. I love making them every year, they are easy and delicious...not to mention festive! Click HERE for the recipe.

Stephanie dropped of an adorable little basket of cookies for us today! I snapped a picture of our package and my ice punch poinsettia.

Of course, anytime we go anywhere in December it's an excuse to wear Christmas clothes and take pictures! Here are a few from today.