Cute Hats

You know I have a love for daily deals......
http://www.veryjane.com/  is one of my favorites. Todays hats are super cute!!!!

10 cents

Last week I was at my local Walgreen's getting some necessities. They had a huge pile of big bags of candy corn for 10 cents a piece. Me being me I bought 10 of them! I mean, who could resist???!

I got home and googled candy corn recipes. Since I had no idea what in the world I was going to do with it! Here is what I found. Not only are these UHHHmazing, but easy, peasy!

Melt 1 bag candy corn with 1 cup creamy peanut butter.
Spread in a pan lined w parchment paper. 2 inches thick or so.
Put in fridge for an hour.
Use pizza cutter and cut out candy bars (I did fun size)
Dip in melted chocolate. Let firm in fridge.
YUUUUUMMMMM!!! Just like Butterfingers!!!

Kids Playroom

I found these bookshelves using rain gutters on www.pinterest.com  (of course) a few weeks ago. I think it will be the perfect idea for my kids playroom. We have so many books and I am tired of having 5 different little shelves and bookcases to hold them! I hope it is as easy as it looks!

Pinterest

If you are not on www.pinterest.com you are missing out. I joined a few months ago, but just recently found time to play and feed my addiction!!!!!!

I have always kept a binder of recipes, pictures of furniture, paint colors, rooms I like, fabric, etc. This completely takes the work out of it! You just "pin" pictures from anywhere online to your boards. It's amazing! You must try it today!

Hair clips

My almost 12 year old daughter is a total hair accessory junkie. She has every headband from peacock feathers to flowers to beads, etc. I saw these on veryjane.com this morning and knew she had to have them! Super cute! I purchased fuchsia and aqua for her colors! I do think the orange and white would be perfect for all you VOL fans!

Teacher Appreciation Week

I have been searching the blog world for cute Teacher Appreciation week gift ideas, and I found several here. These were really fun and easy to put together.


Here is how mine turned out! I am also making cupcakes with some really fun printable tags I found on another site. I will post those later in the week. Give your kids teachers some love this week=) They deserve it!

A Starbucks giftcard holder

Candy jar. The original blog idea showed with M&M's, and that does look much cuter in the jar, but for a school setting I think individually wrapped candy is a must!

The jars were on sale at Hobbly Lobby for $2 and then just the cost of a little paper and candy. I would estimate all together under 6 dollars!

Rose Cake Attempt....Please no laughing=)

As you remember, I told you a few days ago I was going to attempt this beautiful Rose Cake.


I finally got around to it this week! I baked the layers in the morning so they would be cooled and ready when I laid my boy's down for nap. I figured I had at least 2 hours and that would be enough...........


I learned many things from this little experiment. I will detail it as I post the pics. Remember, this is my first EVER attempt to do anything like this!!

I started with my new decorating set I got for Christmas.

Yes,  I used a box mix. I also bought some buttercream icing from Publix! I know, I am a cheater! See the way Pioneer Woman is starting me down in the background! I did make my own buttercream icing as well, I just wanted a backup in case mine was a flop!

BTW---mine actually tasted better and held up better on the roses. The only problem was, they were 2 different shades of white! It annoyed me, but no one else seemed to notice.

I should have read the part that she poured simple syrup and froze her layers beforehand. Mine were falling apart everywhere! Lesson learned!

A messy, crumby, base icing job. Good thing the roses covered it up

My first attempt!

This is the point when I ran out of icing the 1st time. When she said it used a lot of icing, she wasn't kidding. I used 4 batches and still needed more!

My kitchen is super dark. I need new lighting!!!!! Hence, all my pics are a little dark.

This is the point when the boys woke up from nap. I was also out of icing again.



My roses are not as defined as the original. I have a long way to go! I did have fun and learn alot from this little trial. I will be trying all the tips and the rest of the decorating set soon. All in all, it turned out fine. The cake tasted good, but the icing was SO heavy! I love icing and this was almost too much for me!
I do not see cake decorator as a future career for me, but I loved giving it a try! Happy Easter Weekend to you all!



Easter Treats!

I learned something about myself this week. I LOVE Peeps! You know, the cute little sugared marshmallows for Easter? I truly don't think I have ever eaten any before this week. I had no idea what I was missing!!!!

I am always looking for quick and easy gift/treat ideas for teachers, friends, nurses, whoever! When I saw this super cute idea on a friend's blog, I had to make them!

I made a few of the larger ones, but then decided to make them individual size for Ames' and Calee's friends at school and dance.

Here are the pics! Enjoy! Oh! BTW---I bought all of the items at the Dollar Store! The large ones cost $3 to make and the small only 30 cents a piece! YAY!

Wish me luck........

I am gonna give this a try this weekend with my handy dandy cake decorating tools. I'll letcha know what happens.


Let's hope everything comes up roses! Ha Ha.

 This is from a fun blog called I am Baker. Love her stuff.

Cat Claws Facial Treatment

Two and a half years ago, I turned 30. I made a "life decision" that day to take better care of my skin. I have finally gotten around to it.


I have always washed my face and tried to use good products. I have never had a great complexion, just average. I am super fair skinned, so I have to be careful about sun exposure and all those fun things.


 My skin has really changed  in the last couple of years. Especially after having 2 babies in 2 years. I struggle with dry skin constantly, even more in the winter. So, I recently made a dermatologist appointment. She gave me some great products and referred me to the "medical spa" next door. I made an appointment and went.


I knew the estictican looked familiar, but it wasn't until she said " you were my teacher" that I recognized her. Wow. Nothing reminds me of how old I am getting more than that! Ha! Regardless, it was great to have familiar person in charge of my skin.


First I did a microdermabrasion treatment. It was cheap, and I did see a little change. She kept telling me about Laser Genesis, and that it would make all my pores smaller and smooth my skin. Its more expensive but she swears by it. SO, of course, I gave it a try. It is amazing. My skin feels so smooth and much less dry. They recommend doing these every 2 months or so for the maximum benefit.


Now, she told me it was a little uncomfortable and hot, but not painful. I read about it online and people said it was soothing. Really a relaxing process.


These people online were obviously very, very, disturbed. I was not soothed. I felt like someone had a blowtorch aimed at my face and I tried not to freak out. I was pushing my head so hard against the back of the chair my neck was sore the next day.
(I do have some spacial (is that a word?) issues with someone being up in my face, so this played in as well. )


Afterwords, she told me the first time she had it done it felt like a cat was clawing her face with claws on fire. Great. A pretty good description actually.


The good news is it's quick. You only have to endure the blowtorch/cat clawing for about 10 minutes. It's worth it. I will definitely do it again. I may take Valium before I go though!!!


Anyway, just thought I would share my little experience with you all! Would love to hear of any amazing products or treatments you use as well!!! I need all the help I can get!

Pregnant Women

I learned something about myself at Target yesterday. I have probably known it all along, but it just kindof "hit" me while I was shopping.


I really, really get excited for pregnant strangers.




 I saw at least 5 super cute pregnant ladies at Target (post on my thoughts of another baby boom coming later). Big round bellies. I smiled uncontrollably at all of them. I could not stop staring! I think it was borderline weird.


Not sure if it is that I am excited for the women, knowing what they are about to experience, those feelings that only a fresh, tiny newborn can evoke.

Or maybe it's relief that I am not having another one. HAHA.

For a while, after Cohen was born, I worried and stressed over all my friends that were pregnant. I worried that they would also have babies born early, or born with illnesses, defects, etc. I even would worry over strangers I would pass on the street. I have finally come to terms with this and let it go (somewhat).
Just to make myself clear. I would never, ever, walk up and touch a strangers belly. I do have standards. But, if we are friends, or relatives, you better watch out!

Most of you know, I am going to be an AUNT for the first time next month. Since my SIL and brother live in another state, I haven't gotten the "belly time" that I would like. (I know my SIL is thankful for this!=)
But I am so excited to meet my little precious niece!

Hope you all have a wonderful week. If you happen to be pregnant please know that I am thinking of you and smiling right now!!!

Back on Track!

After being out of town for a few days, I am back home and trying to buckle back down on my healthier eating. I didn't exactly throw it out the window during my trip, but I definitely indulged a little bit. (Though the bread pudding I had was totally worth it!)


So, I went to Publix (my favorite grocery store) this week in search of some new ideas. I do really well for breakfast and dinner, but I always struggle with lunch. I just get so tired of the same old things!


Here is what I tried today. It was sooooo good, I would eat it no matter what diet I was following.

So, the flatbread is 120 calories and 2 grams of fat per large slice. The Rosemary and OO flavor is awesome. Laughing cow cheese is a total staple in my house. This Queso fresco flavor is terrific at 35 calories per wedge. Its spreadable and taste like Mexican cheese dip. This is the first time I have tried this ready- to- eat chicken. It's 90 calories per 1/2 cup. It is actually really good, and I am super picky about meats and chicken. I also added Pioneer Woman salsa  that I made recently. 

YUMMMMMMY!

Nook Book Help!

Help! I am blowing through books on my new Nook. I would love some book suggestions!

I am also curious about magazine subscriptions with Nook. I love my magazines, and I am just not sure if I think it will be as fun on the Nook? Any feedback is appreciated!


Hope all of you are well and having a great start to the new year! I am doing great so far with my "New Year's Choices!"

New Year's Choices

I realize we are almost 3 weeks in, but I wanted to share this.
I decided this year to make some New Year "choices" instead of resolutions. My track record with resolutions has been spotty, so I thought it might just be the word itself. Logical, right?


Some of these will seem super silly to you all. I have actually printed myself a list of some of them and put them in my purse. Just for a little extra reminder!


1. Smile and laugh more.
2. Be the best mother I can be.
3. Become a better friend. This year I have been so focused on Cohen that I have neglected some friendships. Especially friends that live far from me. I am already working on this!
4. Of course....eat healthier and take better care of myself and my family! (I am off to a good start. YAY!)
5. Be slower to judge and faster to forgive.
6. Find beauty and happiness in small things.


2010 was a challenging year for me and my family. I am thankful for all the joy and triumphs it brought, but happy to see 2011 here for a while! Can't wait to see what she brings!!!!!


Happy Choices to you!

Yes, I am spoiled.

I am the first to admit it. I am a teensy, tiny bit spoiled.


Christmas this year was no exception. I got some amazing, unbelievable gifts. One in particular that I am working on for it's own post, from none other than The Warren Fam. It is truly one of the most thoughtful and awesome things ever. (HINT----I am truly, deeply, madly in love with it)


Here are a couple of fun toys from my husband and my mom.


The Nook Color. Totally cool. I have already downloaded and read 5 books. Also, love that I can download books for the kids and it reads the aloud! Ames LOVES it.

 From my mom. The Mint robot! Its a hardwood floor cleaner!!! YAY! Our whole house is hardwood and I am so excited to use it! I will letcha know how it works!

December Fun

I am working on a post about all my favorite new products and toys I got for Christmas. The NOOKcolor is rocking my world! I am in love with it!


I also got some amazing products, and I can't wait to show them to you!


For now, we are out of town on vacation. Can you guess where we are?

Christmas at our Quirky House!

I took some pictures of some of our Christmas decorations this year. I am way into it after missing all the festivities last year! We have added some things, and hopefully will add a tree for the boys next year. I am thinking a tractor theme, but will have to see what all sale ornaments I find after Christmas. My photo quality is not great. It is dreary outside and the lighting is less than perfect. 

I forgot to go upstairs and take a pic of Calee's tree. Y'all don't tell her.
First up, our master bedroom. We have a turquoise/chocolate theme. I also have a remote on these trees and it it my most favorite thing ever!

 Dining room. Green and Brown theme. My mom's creation!

 Family/homemade tree---where I put all the gift ornaments from the kids and others. Sorry this pic is so dark.

 Christmas cards from family and friends!

 Kitchen window and picture frame tree. My favorite tree in the house.

 Our Camo stockings. A tribute to my husband!

 Living room tree. Westerny themed. Most ornaments from when I lived in Texas.

 Elf on a shelf!

A few things about me....

I saw this on a fun blog I read. Thought I would give it a go. It has been brought to my attention that some of you don't know me very well. I think I will do this on my other blog about my baby Cohen!


These are in no order, but I feel the need to number them.


1. I don't sleep well. I am really jealous of those that can lay down and sleep.
2. I am a Tennessee VOL fan. Orange makes me instantly happier.
3. I have 3 kids.
4. I am married and this is my 2nd marriage.
5. My favorite drink is Coca-Cola.
6. I live in Middle Tennessee but grew up in East TN.
7. I also lived in the Panhandle of TX for 6 years.
8. My dream job is to be an editor. Books, magazines, blogs, etc.
9. New York is my favorite big city. If I had visited there before I "grew" up, I would have moved there in a heartbeat.
10. Christmas is my favorite holdiay. My Mom always made it big and special when I was a child.
11. I have 1 brother. He lives far away from me and I hate that.
12. I will be an Aunt in March 2010.
13. I remember strange moments in my life. Like singing along to a song or seeing someone for the first time. I love my memory.
14. Having a preemie and spending months in the hospital changed my heart and soul. As corny as it sounds, I never knew so much before this happened.
15. Accents intrigue me. Irish and Australian especially.
16. The Dentist is not my favorite.
17. We live in a log cabin. All because of its location. It's growing on me.
18. My daughter, Calee, is a real live ballerina. The irony is amazing.
19. I love clothes, purses, accessories, shoes. Very much.
20. TJ Maxx is my favorite store. Maxxinista. haha
21. Food is my favorite hobby. I am a total foodie.
22. Reading is my other favorite hobby.
23. Pumpkin is my ideal baked good flavor.
24. My husband is much more kind and patient than I am.
25. Ames, my middle child, has fire engine red hair. I cried in panic the first time I saw it.
26. I love to cook special meals. I dont love to cook plain regular meals.
27. I know alot about livestock.
28. There is not a day that goes by I don't wonder what my purpose on this earth is. I pray I am fufilling it.
29. I have had a mean boyfriend.
30. I have always wished I was a gifted athlete.
31. My heart has always ached for other people. Even when I was younger.
32. My family is awesome.
33. My 11 year old is proof reading these for me=)
34. I watch too much T.V.
35. Snow days are my favorite. I have spent hours of my life watching for our county to scroll across the screen.
36. I "lost" a friend this year. Not lost as in died, but she just couldnt handle the issues in my life. It makes me sad.
37. I made several amazing friends this year. Maybe more than ever.
38. I think I will stop now.


Thanks for reading. I will continue another day. Maybe.

The "IT" Gift

Calling all of you cutesy bloggers and readers!!!!!
 Let me in on the "IT" gift for the Holidays. I am in desperate need of ideas! I have got to start my shopping!!!!

Starbucks at Home!

Most days, I love living in the country. I love the quiet nights, the bright sky, room for the kids to run around, sitting on the porch in my pajamas.....and much, much, more.


However, I do have 2 things that make me crazy about it.


1. No pizza delivery (I won't even go here today, it makes me so crazy. Ohhhhh, how jealous I am of all my friends in town who can just call and "POOF" hot gooey pizza, Grrrr....it's just a part of life I struggle to accept)


2. No Starbucks


I have a favorite Starbucks drink for Summer, Fall and Winter. I try to imitate them all at home....sometimes successfully, sometimes it's just not the same.


For Summer and Spring- Shaken Iced Tea Passion Lemonade with Melon Sweetener
For Fall- Half Caff 2% Pumpkin Spice Latte
For Winter- NF Half Caff Peppermint Mocha


Here is some of the ingredients I attempt to use. If I can't find the pumpkin creamer in the store, I will mix some cream and splenda with pumpkin pie spice! I meant to take a photo of the finished product, but I forgot and drank it all. Sorry, I tend to get excited when it's ready.