LifeoftheLiles

Really Carrie?

2012-02-02T14:59:00.000-08:00

A friend of mine has recently gotten me addicted to two very different shows and I have to say I have never watch this much TV in my life! But they are ohhh so good!

via

Vampire Diaries...ever watch it!?! I am hooked! In about 4 weeks I watched the whole 1st and 2nd season and am now caught up in the 3rd...ridiculous! And I forget that it is just a show sometimes and think about it way to often. For instance, sitting at a restaurant the other day I noticed that one of the wooden shutters was broken and hanging cracked in half...instantly I thought, "I could kill a vampire with that!"...and then I thought, "Really Carrie???" (fyi-vampires can be killed with a wooden stake, fire or the typical ripping their heads off ha)

via

The other show I am loving is Downton Abbey. I wasn't sold after the 1st episode but by the 3rd I couldn't stop watching it! I don't know what it is about it...but they are incredible!

So if you have some time, peruse around Netflix until you find these beauties, grab some popcorn and a gal pal and go for it! :)

Tried and True

2012-01-30T12:19:00.000-08:00

Well ok...tried once but oh so good!

As I have mentioned earlier HERE, I am trying to get a good selection of "go-to" recipes that Todd and I love and are easy, cheap and for the most part healthy. I put all of my favorite recipes in THIS heirloom cookbook. So here is our menu from the past few meals and I will link you up to the recipes and give you my thoughts...

Tex-Mex Couscous - AMAZING!

Orange Chicken - it was ok, but will probably not make it again. Does anyone have a better recipe???

Spicy Sausage and Peppers - We really liked this with warm French bread.

Southwestern Stuffed Peppers - mmmm INCREDIBLE!

Slow Cooker Black Bean Soup - Perfect for a cold night by the fire!

Chicken Pot Pie - Nothing says YUM like a chicken pot pie! A friend from church brought this over to us when we had Simon and we practically ate the whole dish in one meal! Here is the easy recipe:

2 1/2 to 3 cups cooked, cut up chicken
1 15 ounce bag frozen peas and carrots
1/3 cup butter
1/3 cup all-purpose flour
1/3 cup chopped onion
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp pepper
1 3/4 cup chicken broth
2/3 cup milk
Pastry for 9-inch 2-crust pie

Rinse frozen peas and carrots to separate and set aside. Heat butter in sauce pan. Stir in flour, onion, salt and pepper. Cook until bubbly. Stir in broth and milk and whisk together. Heat to boiling, stirring constantly. After mixture thickens, stir in chicken and veggies. Remove from heat. Heat oven to 425 degrees. Roll 2/3 of pastry into 13 inch square. Place into 9X9 square pan or whatever dish you have. Pour chicken mixture into pastry-lined pan. Roll remaining pastry into 11-inch square. Place square over pie filling. Turn edges under and flute. Bake about 35 minutes or until golden brown.

Well I hope this gives you some "go-to" recipes like it did me! If you have any recipes to recommend I would LOVE to see them! Give me a link in my comments!

Happy start of the week! :)

It's that time of year...

2012-01-24T13:15:00.000-08:00

It's that time of year again where I have the battle against my ever-so-dry winter skin! So I had to make more of THIS the other day to fight the battle!

3rd Post Ever

2012-01-12T10:04:00.000-08:00

Last night I was labeling my blog posts (phew long task) and I was looking back at some oldies and this post made me laugh. It was my 3rd post ever and it was 25 random things (I think I was bored while Todd was traveling). Pretty much all of these are still true...but I have added some updated info (bold).

So here they were/are...

1. I wish adults went to the roller skating rink to hang out.
2. I make up words.
3. I love post-it notes.
4. I will be able to play the violin one day. (I know have one and learned to play Twinkle Twinkle Little Stars and have now been slacking. I need to get back on it.)
5. I love to fall asleep on the couch. (I don't just love it, I usually can't help it!)
6. I love that my husband and I are always willing to go where ever God leads us.
7. I would like to own a navy blue bucky beaver Jeep Wagoneer.
8. I have a love/hate relationship with running.
9. I am horrible at keeping in contact with people.
10. I want my husband to get a sleeve (tattoo).
11. I hate cleaning the microwave.
12. I dance in front of the mirror with Mariah and Whitney. (and now workout to Beyonce Pandora station)
13. I like to make a list just to cross it off.
14. I can never remember if it is "labtop" or "laptop". (or pronounced "treadmill" or "treadmeal"...or "Seinfield" or "Sinfeld")
15. I don't know which way is North, South, West, and East. Just tell me left of right.
16. I have a teacher voice and eyes in the back of my head.
17. My favorite magazine in the world is, "The Nest". (I can't remember what this is now...I should revisit it!)
18. I would have liked to live in the hippie-era.
18. I really miss living by my family but I am confident God will make it very obvious where we need to be. (We live closer to family now and it is wonderful!)
19. I love raking the gravel in the backyard so that it is evenly spread out. (We don't have a gravel backyard anymore but I miss it!)
20. I love finding bargains. Can't afford not to...right? :)
21. At night I can't just turn the lamp off once...it is on, off, on, off, on, off, on, off... (I now leave my bedside lamp unplugged so it isn't an option!)
22. I walked down the aisle to the Hawaiian version of, "Somewhere Over the Rainbow".
23. I used to believe I was born under a rock...you can thank my brothers for that.
24. To this day I won't eat Jello because my brother Brian once told me that is is monkey brains. I know it isn't, but I can't get that thought out of my mind when I see it.
25. Call me a nerd, but I LOVE playing Settlers of Catan. (I wish we played more often!)

Well that was it! Seems like I typed that post forever ago...and then at the same time it seems like it was just yesterday!

Tex-Mex Couscous

2012-01-10T07:15:00.000-08:00

Lately I have been scouring the Internet for not only healthy recipes, but under $5 as well. I came across this blog called Eat Yourself Skinny. It has great recipes and they are usually made with things I can find around the house and not have too buy many ingredients for. Yesterday I tried Tex-Mex Couscous and it is one of Todd and I's new favorites! Todd is a big fan of meals that are all mixed together and can be eaten out of one bowl (rather than entree + sides)...so this satisfied that! I put a bit of sour cream in mine because it was a tad spicy and Todd loaded his with hot sauce. You can find the recipe HERE.

photo via Eat Yourself Skinny

I also made Cranberry Oat and Honey Bread for dessert. I don't have much experience in making breads but this was very simple. And the best part of it was that I had all the ingredients at home already...so no money spent for me! I had to cook it a bit longer than it said on the recipe to get the middle to be firm. We had some for dessert last night and I had a slice with coffee this morning. Another great recipe from Eat Yourself Skinny!

Out with the...

2012-01-05T13:24:00.000-08:00

Out with the old...

I have had this video for about 5 years and let me just say...Gunnar is good, but after 5 years it is getting old!

And in with the new...

I have been doing this workout set for 5 days now and I really like it! I am sore in all of the right places! $12 well spent!

Fun Things!

2011-12-31T10:06:00.000-08:00

I am pretty excited about...

...my new measuring cups! Each piece is a different size...and they all fit in to one another! I used them the other day to make some homemade granola bars. Todd snagged these for me in a gift exchange! You can find them HERE.

...my new salt and pepper shakers that my sis-in-law found...she remembered my love of Ball jars!

...my first pair of Danskos (remember my post about these babies)!!!!!!!! I have been admiring these ever since we went to Maine (see our trip posts HERE and HERE). I went with the Hunter Green version...I love them!

...that I finally finished our old tablet of paper on the fridge and was able to put up a new one. The last one took us a total of 2 YEARS to go through! I must admit...it is pretty handy though! I usually look for cute ones at Michaels for a whopping $1!

Happy Saturday!

Madewell

2011-12-29T15:55:00.000-08:00

Lately I have stumbled across the store Madewell (I came across it while following a link for this guy). I got the catalogue the other day in the mail and let me just say, "Phew...can I have the WHOLE store please!?". Here are a few (well many) of my favorites...

Striped Outfield Sweater

Midnight Glow Sweater

Long-Sleeve Silk Shutterbug Shirt

Juniper Stripe Tee

Paisley Bloom Dress

Seaves Off-Shore Tall Rain Boots

Bensimon Elastic Sneakers

Only downfall to all of this...it is expensive (at least I think so!). Enjoy browsing Madewell!

Guest Bloggin'!

2011-12-23T13:47:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas Eve Eve!!!

Today I am over at TrustyChucks today! Be sure to check out my guest post on Christmas for our family this year!

And be sure to check out Mary's other posts...you will love her!!!

It's OK!

2011-12-19T10:34:00.000-08:00

I just have to laugh at myself sometimes and I think every day I say to myself, "Wow, we have a child!".

So it's OK...

-that the first time I practiced putting a baby in a car seat (thanks for letting me use Kason, Kelly!) I forgot to put his arms through the loops!

-that when I was pregnant I liked that we shared Simon's name so I would stop calling him "it".

-that I felt nauseous when playing the classic Guess the Candy Bar in the Diaper game. I am over that now!

-that my first words when I had him were, "What just happened to me?"

-that I was wondering how I would have another baby in the future if I just delivered my placenta. (Clearly we didn't go to any classes...).

-that I thought "milk ducts" were actually called "milk duds"... thanks Todd for clarifying that they would never name a candy after that!

-that the first time I had to change his diapers by myself when Todd went back to work, he came home to inform me that Simon's diaper was on backwards.

-that I often have to have Todd help me put on his pj's because I can never figure out all the snaps!

-that I was woken up from a nap like this...

Todd - "What time does Simon need to eat?"

Me - "I just let him out before I laid down."

Todd - "Carrie, we don't let Simon out."

It's OK because I am figuring it out and having a blast spending time with Simon and Todd as our family of 3 and there is so much love going around! We are so very blessed!

Winter Song

2011-12-07T06:57:00.000-08:00

A couple years ago I discovered this song/video by Sara Bareilles and Ingrid Michaelson and fell in love with it! It is so relaxing and reminds me of quiet, snow-filled mornings! The other day I had this on repeat for at least an hour...and I still enjoy it! I think this video is great...check it out!

Textures and Patterns

2011-12-01T08:18:00.000-08:00

For some reason I am always drawn to textures and patterns. Whether it is in my clothes, house stuff...and yes even food (Don't get me started on the texture of Qdoba's chicken...yuck! But I do love Qdoba!). Today I was walking around and decided to snap a few photos of different textures and patterns around our home. It is kind of fun to look at a close up picture and guess what it is actually is. So let me take you on a texture and pattern tour... :)

My favorite scarf! Going strong now for 4 years!

nightstand

My wallet...also going strong now for 3 years...can you tell I find something and then hang on to it forever?!

bedside lamp shade (snagged this baby at Goodwill)

basket

Simon's bedskirt (Dwell Studio)

stocking

coaster

tin christmas tree (decoration on the fire place)

Have a wonderful Thursday and enjoy the textures and patterns all around you!

2011-11-23T07:19:00.000-08:00

Believe it or not...I am NOT on Pinterest! I don't really know why and don't have much of a reason...shocking I know! Everyone keeps telling me that I would love it, and I am sure I would. In fact, I am partly afraid I will become addicted to it and spend countless hours pinning things. Maybe that is why I am avoiding it. I don't know...what do you think? Is it worth it? Can you control yourself and not spend hours pinning?

Farewell!

2011-11-16T06:24:00.000-08:00

Plant,

It was great while it lasted! I can't believe you stayed with me for 5 and a half months...now that is what I call commitment! I have never had a plant like me as much as you do! You have seen better days though...like THIS DAY, when we couldn't stop singing, "Stayin' Alive".

And now you are looking pretty pathetic...

But that's OK, apparently you aren't made for Indiana winters. So all that is left for me to do is get rid of you! I will miss you! And maybe next Spring I can find a cousin of yours or something to replace you. Hope you enjoyed your stay with me!

Love,

Your Caretaker

Happy :)

2011-11-14T07:53:00.000-08:00

Flowers just always put a smile on my face! I LOVE having them in the house! I received some beautiful bouquets when I had Simon (4 weeks ago!) and I tried to keep them alive as long as possible. Last week I realized they were looking pretty pathetic so I pulled out the flowers that were still kicking and put them in a few Ball jars. Now it has been 4 weeks and they are looking pretty good (minus a few blooms here and there).

Todd always laughs and says that my solution for everything I do is to "put it in a Ball jar". I laugh too...and then realize that it is so true! For instance...remember this post...Easy Vase?

Great minds think alike!

2011-11-07T09:07:00.000-08:00

Don't you just love a good friend that knows your taste and style so well and can read your mind before you even speak it?!? I do!

On my previous post I was mentioning how I was interested in making a bulletin board and that I really liked the fabric circles. Well it just so happens that Mindy over at M2 had just finished making 2 fabric circles (before I posted the blog) for Simon's room and I didn't even know! I opened the gift later that week and was so surprised! How perfect! They are adorable and I can't wait to get them hung up!

She also thought of another great gift idea...a terrarium! If you don't know what this is, don't feel bad, I didn't know either! You get some type of glass tank and you plant succulents. Succulents are small plants that take very minimal maintenance, water, and sun. So in other words...it is hard to kill these! I think this is such a fun idea for a baby's room and I love it sitting in Simon's room!

So, 2 thumbs up for Mindy (and her boy Ryan)! Thanks lady! You are so thoughtful!

Be sure to check out their new photography business, Two Are Better...you will be glad you did!

DIY Bulletin Board

2011-10-29T10:50:00.000-07:00

Now that I am a "stay-at-home-Mom" for a while, I need some projects, because let's just say I am getting a little restless!

I am for some reason wanting to make a bulletin board...why...I have no clue...so here are some online that have caught my eye...

source

I think I will go with the fabric circles or the chicken wire frame...hum decisions decisions!

Happy Saturday! :)

Haha

2011-10-18T07:41:00.000-07:00

So I saw this picture (the one on the far right) over at It's A Hunt Life today ...

... and I thought...that would look great hanging in Todd's office! Haha!

Happy Tuesday! :)

Burlap Wreath

2011-10-14T07:15:00.000-07:00

I don't know why, but I just love a good wreath! Something about a wreath on a front door makes the house feel so much more cozy to me. Todd thinks I am crazy for thinking that, but hey that's ok! I have been wanting to do some type of Fall wreath but I just didn't really see anything at stores that I loved or wanted to pay for. So I decided to make one...and the total cost was...$2.99! So here is how I made my burlap wreath...

The supplies...foam wreath of your choice of size, hot glue gun, burlap and scissors. I bought the burlap at Joann Fabrics on sale for $2.99...but I was at Wal-Mart the other day and saw that it was $1.99 there.

First, cut your burlap in to strips (I started with a yard of burlap). I just eyed the width of my strips...and if I had to guess, I would say they were about 4-5 inches wide...but it doesn't really matter if you're exact.

Next, I started wrapping the burlap around the wreath and hot gluing as I went. Be sure to pull really tight on the burlap so it doesn't get loose.

After you are finished wrapping it will look something like this. Notice on the bottom right-hand side of mine, the burlap got a bit sloppy as I was finishing...oh well! :) Now you are ready to add whatever detail you want to your wreath!

I thought about adding these flowers that I found in my basement...but I wasn't sold on it.

So instead, I went to the back yard and gathered some sticks, tied them up in more burlap and glued them on! So this is my finished product!

There are all sorts of options you can add to the basic burlap wreath. I have seen some really cute ideas online. You could also hang it with a fun ribbon instead of a hook. I enjoyed making this because it took me less than 1 hour to make...as opposed to the book wreath that took several hours...but totally worth it because I love it!

Bikes and a Baby!

2011-10-12T06:20:00.000-07:00

Some incredible friends of ours threw us a couple's baby shower at a bike shop...how perfect! We had so much fun and feel so lucky to have some amazing friends in our lives! Instead of going on and on about it, I thought I would let you read about it on my friend, Allison's blog! Disclaimer...please ignore the EXTREMELY chubby face of mine...phew! Let's hope that goes away soon!

Nestful of Love

The decorations (and those yummy cookies) were a great idea!

Samuel!

2011-10-10T06:27:00.000-07:00

I am so excited to say that I am an AUNT! Samuel Joseph Sprinkle is here! Unfortunately Todd and I couldn't travel to meet him when he was born because it was too close to Simon being here...so it is killing me that I haven't met him yet! I can't wait to meet him and hold him and snuggle him! My brother is keeping the most beautiful blog ever about him. Check it out to see this sweet family of 3! :)

Samuel's Dad

New Fall Recipe!

2011-09-24T06:03:00.000-07:00

My friend, Emily, made the best dessert the other night! I knew I had to try it out the next chance I go! We had a bonfire for a friend last night so I was excited to try out this recipe...

Pampered Chef Taffy Apple Pizza

photo

1 (18 ounce) package refrigerated sugar cookie dough
1/4 cup creamy peanut butter
1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
1/2 teaspoon vanilla
2 medium granny smith apples, peeled, cored, and sliced
1 cup carbonated lemon-lime beverage
ground cinnamon
1/4 cup caramel ice cream topping
chopped nuts

Put sliced apples into the lemon-lime soda to soak so they won't brown.

Preheat oven to 350*.

Roll cookie dough into a 12-inch circle on a 13" baking stone that has been lightly floured.

Bake approximately 5 minutes longer than directions on package say. (My package says 10-12 minutes, so bake about 15 minutes.).

Let cool.

In a bowl, mix peanut butter, cream cheese, sugar and vanilla.

Spread over cooled cookie crust.

Then drain apples and arrange in a spiral, to cover entire "pizza".

Srinkle with cinnamon and nuts and pour over caramel topping.

It's ready to serve!

(I didn't peel the apples and just baked it on a cookie sheet covered in wax paper...and it turned out just fine!)

So Sweet!

2011-09-16T13:55:00.000-07:00

A couple weekends ago some dear friends of ours, Seth and Kelly, threw Todd and I the most thoughtful shower ever! They put so much detail, time and thought in to it and it meant the world to us! Here are just a few of the incredible things that they came up with...

Kelly made this amazing name frame! I love the look of the rustic frame! The book pages are from "James and the Giant Peach"...which is one of my favorite books and authors!

I love the unique way she strung the letters together!

Everyone could "make a onesie for a onesie"! She had several iron-on appliques that meant something to us! Simon will be one dressed little man!

We love these! We love how much each one has its' own special meaning to us and that our friends made them! And yes...if you look closely, that is a picture of Russ and Audrey, our dogs!

Every guest got to go home with this box (which of course is wrapped in mailing paper...which you already know how much I love to wrap presents in that). The box has a tag with a specific prayer for Todd and I and Simon! How thoughtful!

1. I love candy! 2. I love Ball Jars! So why not combine them!

Thanks so much Seth and Kelly! We had so much fun! :)

S & S

2011-09-03T05:23:00.000-07:00

Some of you may know that Todd and I are having our first nephew arrive just 3 weeks before Simon gets here! My Mom is beyond herself excited...she already has her Christmas card picture in her mind with her and her 2 grandbabies! We are so excited to meet Samuel and so excited that Samuel and Simon will be so close in age! It is so fun talking with Brian and Megan and sharing what we are all going through! After a joint baby shower with our family they were gifted several of the same outfits...which will be adorable when they are babies...but they might not appreciate it when they are teenagers haha! :)

My incredible brother has put together the best blog ever for Samuel (Samuel's Dad) (and for all of us that like to follow along)! The other night they drove up from Lexington and we were able to have a delicious dinner with them on the canal downtown.

Here is a cute video that he shot for his blog...(feel free to click on over to his blog to get a glimpse of how amazing they are as parents already!)

Oh nothing much...

2011-08-28T13:11:00.000-07:00

This school year I would have to win "Worst Blogger" because I have rarely sat down and put time in to my blog! Sorry! But here are some random thoughts for ya...

This sounds so incredible to me! I must make it soon!

At this sweet lady's baby shower (due with a little girl 1 week before us)...

...was the most adorable baby shower favor ever! All the ingredients and directions for oatmeal cookies! Yum! Made by this beautiful Mama - Amy!

I was so lucky to be able to spend a relaxing Saturday at the lake with some incredible friends! There was lots of wading around in the lake, hot dogs, marshmallows, laughs, sunscreen and great conversation! Just the day I needed! :)

I can't get enough watermelon...I actually have to make myself put the bowl away before I eat the whole thing. Much to my surprise last weekend when I was chopping up some more...a heart! So fun!

Aren't these invites so cute?! My dear friend Kelly designed them for our church shower! She is so great! :)

I actually listened to NPR on my own in the car the other day...not with the husband! Normally that is what we listen to in the car together and I am known to get tired of it...but I can't believe I was actually enjoying it on my own for once!

Well that is all for now...I am off to lay on the couch with a glass of homemade lemonade and continue digging in to this book...

...I am not too far in yet, but very intrigued! Anyone else read this yet? Thoughts? And yes, I know the cover is a bit creepy...the night stand is not a good place to keep it! :)

UO Catalogue

2011-08-17T13:56:00.000-07:00

One of my favorite things is getting home to find an Urban Outfitters catalogue...and it just so happened the other day was my day! To be completely honest, my first thoughts when I saw the cover, and I believe I actually said, "Wow" out loud, were a bit different than usual. I actually didn't want to mimic the look I saw. And this is that look...

source

The duct tape necklace wouldn't be my first choice...it is HUMUNGO! But you have to give it to the editor...it definitely caught my attention!

There were a few things that I am super excited about...

These jeans! I am still stuck in my skinny jeans...but these may make me venture out again!

I love the lock of warm cozy socks and mary janes! Except I am not sure I could pull off shoes with that height...then I would be HUMUNGO!

Ah Fall....you are soooo close!

Hooked!

2011-08-14T06:01:00.000-07:00

(So sorry for the long delay of bloggin'...school started with the kiddos a couple of weeks ago and I am still adjusting!)

I have heard about the book series, "The Hunger Games" for a while and I never really took the time to look in to them. This summer I decided I would give them a try, but of course the library had a major hold on all of the books because of the high demand. (side note-I am a total library junkie! I hate paying for books that I will read one time...unless it is extra special!)

Fortunately a friend lent me the first one to get me started...or shall I say HOOKED! I love them!!! They are very...different...the whole story line is just odd to me...but for some reason I can't put them down! I am about halfway done with the last one. If you have thought about reading them, go for it! Regardless of how the back cover description sounds to you, give them a try (the description didn't really interest me too much really).

Book #1

Book #3

Enjoy getting HOOKED! :)

Button Necklace!

2011-08-03T15:07:00.000-07:00

My sweet cousin Cathy made me this adorable button necklace! I absolutely love it! I thought it was too cute to not share! I hope it inspires you to create one for yourself or as a gift!

4 years!

2011-07-31T13:53:00.000-07:00

This past week Todd and I celebrated our 4 year anniversary! I can't believe we have been together a total of 9 years! (5 years dating + 4 years married) It is so fun to think of all of the fun things we have been able to do in 4 years and just imagine what the next 4 years will look like! I would typically do some photos for this post, but I did a timeline of photos of us over the past 9 years, last year so I will stick with that one. You can see it HERE!

If you remember from THIS POST, we just got back our cake topper a few months ago. So we were anxious to see what it would taste like out of the freezer 4 years later. And you know what...it wasn't that bad at all. I mean it kind of tasted like the freezer haha, but it was edible! We actually ate a few bites!

Have a wonderful day! :)

Purple Pond

2011-07-28T06:23:00.000-07:00

You can check out my guest blog about my latest craft project over at Purple Pond today! Hope you enjoy!

"Stayin' Alive"

2011-07-26T12:58:00.000-07:00

"Ah, ah, ah, ah stayin' alive, stayin alive!"

This song plays through my head every time I go outside to water my plants. You see I don't have much (or any) of a green thumb...but I would like to. So this summer I decided that I was going to try my best to plant a few things and keep them alive. On top of that, my Mom gave me this beautiful plant for my birthday and I knew I would be so disappointed if I killed it! So I am working really hard on trying to keep it alive. And you know what...despite the heat and lack of rain...this baby is still blooming!!!! :)

(Now if you are a super green thumb and you don't think this looks healthy, don't tell me haha! I am just happy to see blooms!)

Dog Days of Summer

2011-07-18T15:57:00.000-07:00

This weekend was definitely a dog-filled weekend! Let me explain...

I started the day by teaching the dogs some Polish! They look thrilled! :)

My brother Andy and his wife Mel came to visit for the weekend with their dogs Mack (left) and Casey (right). Dog cousins reunite! Here they are crammed in the back of the car anxious to get to the creek! Good thing they like each other!

I think this may have made their weekend...time to play in the creek! Our dogs LOVE (that's an understatement) to swim around in the creek. As you can see by looking at Russ, he could bounce around for hours on his own and be completely content!

And after a long day of playing, I couldn't help but snap a picture of Russ sitting oh-so-proper with his legs crossed! Silly boy!

Enjoy your day and find something to keep you cool in the heat!

Goodwill Gold!

2011-07-16T07:19:00.000-07:00

For the last few months I have been looking for a specific flannel shirt...either red and black or red and blue at Goodwill. Todd and I look stopping at different Goodwills to see what we can score, so we are both always on the lookout for this flannel. I am sure that I could go buy it new somewhere, but that would take all the fun out of it! The last time we were at one, Todd found one in the boys' section and I was sooo excited! The hunt is over! (Of course, I will always take a red and black one too!) :)

So here is the shirt and this is how I am thinking about wearing it...at least for now...

Happy Saturday!

Summer Nights!

2011-07-10T12:16:00.000-07:00

I absolutely LOVE summer nights! A few reasons are...it stays light later, the feel of the air (even if some humidity is thrown in), the sound of the birds and bugs, the ability to stay up later...and unplanned times with friends!

The other night I hopped on my bike to go rent a movie and called a friend to join. Turns out she was on her bike as well with another great friend coming home from a workout. We met halfway on our bikes, biked to our favorite Mexican restaurant and met up with other friends and shared a fun meal. And what is a summer night without ice cream?!?! So, off we went on our bikes to Dairy Queen where we all feasted on some sweet treats!

And my ever-so-thoughtful friend even rode me home so I didn't have to bike alone in the dark (thanks to her great front and back light on her bike)! :)

We had to laugh though (and of course snap a picture)...because we are all 26, and we met up on the streets on our bikes...we definitely felt like we were in middle school again! Oh pre-driver's license times! :) But really I do love, love, love riding my bike as my mode of transportation when I can...it is a great way to be active and enjoy being outside!

Moustache Fun!

2011-07-04T07:58:00.000-07:00

Todd and I went to the CIY (Christ in Youth) Move conference as leaders with our church this past week. We had a blast hanging out with high schoolers (and leaders) all week. You could say there were lots of late nights and of course a dance party! One of the nights, you couldn't enter without a moustache...so here are ours...

Todd worked really hard drawing his on...it looks so realistic! :)

Oh and by the way...I recently added Instagram to my phone, thanks to the suggestions of the great K. Meeks! It is super fun...you should get it! My name on there is cjliles.

Happy 4th...this is my day to recover from the week! :)

Finding your Decorating Style with Cali

2011-07-03T05:16:00.000-07:00

Hello lovely LifeoftheLiles readers! I am quite excited to share with you today.

While growing up, I was quite fortunate to have a mom who could “do it all”. We occasionally call her “Martha”. She can prepare a feast at the last minute, decorate like a diva, and sew anything a teenage daughter would want. Now that I’m twenty-something I have embraced this and am now walking in her shoes. As we wait for our “Home that Awaits Us” (more on that here and here), I have begun learning more about my decorating style. Here are some things I have come across to be quite helpful in pinning down what you love. Take a looksie!

Look at your closet.

What colors, textures, accessories define your style? Is your jewelry elegant and classy or bright and bold? Your closet is full of pieces you love (maybe like). Look for commonalities in your closet to help formulate your decorating style. I notice my closet is filled with grays, blues, and greens. Don’t you worry, I have pops of pink, violet, and yellow too. I’m more comfortable with cooler colors and highly prefer layers and textures in a room.

Consider the colors you are most drawn to.

(Think about your closet) I recently learned that my choice of oranges and reds for my bedroom were an eyesore for me. I’ve now floated towards my favorite blues, greens, and browns to bring comfort to our bedroom. Stick with what you know and like. You’re the one who has to live with it day to day.

Read blogs and comments.

I’m a complete fan of spending my lunch break reading blogs. If you’re in the mood to decorate or just get ideas, take 5-10 minutes a day to peek at a few favorite home decorating blogs. Don’t forget to read the comments, they can be jammed packed of good stuff too. Decorpad, one of my favorite sites, offers a forum for people with questions about decorating. Check it out here.

Online inspiration.

For best of home décor eye candy, check out Pinterest, Houss, or Décorpad. Warning: You may become addicted.

Flip through magazines and books.

Both can be quiet inspirational. If you’re bored one night, go to Barnes and Noble and look through all the current issues of fabulous home decorating magazines. For the love of your house, be a nerd and take notes. My favorite magazines include: Better Homes and Garden (it’s not only for 40 year old women), House Beautiful, and ElleDecor. My favorite online magazines are Lonny and Rue. Some books to start with: Domino:The Book of Decorating, The Nest Home Design, and Home Rules. One of my favorite bloggers, Dana, over at House Tweaking, posted great advice a while ago, “The words and photos are there together for a reason. You’re only shortchanging yourself if you don’t actually read design books.” See more on this here. When finding inspiration pictures, copy what you see using the pieces you have. Don’t get caught up on not having the same items. Think of shape and design. Copy, copy, copy! It’s how you learn.

Keep your eyes open when in friend’s houses.

Notice what you like about what they have done. People love when you comment on something they have tried to make beautiful in their home. It may also lead to a funny story, new store recommendation, or my favorite, a sweet sweet deal.

Don’t just think, Pottery Barn.

This was an ‘Aha’ moment for me. It takes time to collect the things for your space. Make sure you love what you are around. You may love that big bold rug at HomeGoods but when you see it every day, maybe you won’t love it so much. I’ve also learned to not buy immediately. Walk away and seriously ask yourself if you could live with it for blank plus years. Make sure to bring out you by displaying things you collect and cherish. Don’t forget about the pieces that are filled with precious memories.

Online interior decorating.

I know… don’t roll your eyes yet. (I would have 8 months ago too.) Many designers are offering e-services. You take pictures of your space. They work with you in finding your style and purpose for the room. They send over mood boards with paint colors, fabrics, furniture, and accent pieces with store descriptions. Sounds lovely! I’m not sure of cost but it’s definitely worth checking out if you are stuck on inspiration. Some interior decorating bloggers to check out: Emily Clark, 6^th Street Design School, Design Dump, 10Rooms for color consultation.

I hope I’ve left you with at least one thing to ponder. Just remember… making a house a home takes time. Construct something that you will love. For more help or ideas email me at homeawaitsus@gmail.com. I would be quite tickled to have you over at Home Awaits.

Style Tips from Kristyn

2011-07-01T07:14:00.000-07:00

Hello to Carrie’s readers! I met Mrs. Liles when she was still Miss. Sprinkle (it’s fun to say SPRINKLES). We shared in the same social club at our university and therefore came from the same small school bubble. Now I’m blessed to read her blog and keep up with her life!

My blog (Read July) is about anything and everything. I graduated three years ago with a bachelor’s degree in mass communications. My day job requires absolutely no creative (or otherwise) writing – naturally, I miss it. I often babble about daily occurrences, memories, growing pains and new experiences. AND my interest in fashion. This has become a very comical interest since I now work from home and wear spandex sweat pants every day.

My ‘uniform’ has changed a lot over the years. I recently described my dorm room freshman year as Hippie Barbie doll throw up. That’s gross. But it really was a slew of pink, patterns and SHINY. Those days I was wearing a lot of leg warmers, 80s themed tee shirts and ripped low rider jeans. I rarely blew out my naturally curly multicolored hair. No one with this many freckles should attempt that many highlights.

Do you need a visual? My pleasure. OH, I forgot… I had bangs too. Frizzy ones.

A style evolution began that year.

Two things that changed my wild ways: A. the quiet elegance of wearing black and B. knowing how to create SHAPE.

I ditched my “I love Jake Ryan” (Sixteen Candles, anyone?) tee shirt for simple knit tops. I added more form fitting dresses, pencil skirts and heels to my wardrobe. My every day wear went quite Vice President corporate for a while before I learned how to mold both parts of my personality into my perfect style. The nonconformist and the sophisticate met & were married. But don’t get me wrong, I still have quite a bit of quirk in me.

My staples are anything that create a waist line and add length to legs. It is essential to my style to know what works and what doesn’t. Be that a certain cut (empire waist shirts are a NO GO for me) or certain colors to stay away from.

Once the boundaries of what you can pull off are established, all that’s left to do is color inside the lines. This is where I get to keep my quirk… without looking like that sequined free soul sitting on the railroad tracks up there.

What style phases have you been through? Anyone remember Jncos? Yes, I owned a pair. Don’t make it a big deal. :)

It’s been a pleasure to write for SPRINKLES. You are all going to want to call her that now aren’t ya - do it. Enjoy your day!

Make it Yours with Tamara

2011-06-30T05:17:00.000-07:00

Hello doves, Tamara here from a.toodle.lee.do

What I love about my home is the special personal touches that greet me in each room. I'm always redecorating, repainting, moving, and sprucing everything in our sunny lil loft in Philadelphia. But, I try to stay within a frame of reason and keep money in my pocket instead of pouring out. One of the ways I do this is by doing it myself.

I have this love/hate relationship with Ikea. What I love about it is.. ..budget friendly, accessible (if you live close to one), and it's easy to go crazy and buy everything. What I'm not so fond about is that everything tends to look the same and you can tell 'that's from ikea'. So, although I have purged my home of a few ikea finds I still think with a little help some items can been wonderful. Here I painted the edland chest with a chevron pattern using painters tape and the cheapest white paint that walmart had to offer me. Vioooolla.

I am a photo junkie. Seriously, Ted (my husband) thinks that if I could forever take, look, edit, print photos I would (with sleep when necessary). We relocated to Philadelphia from New Orleans about a year ago. We were new to town and what I found so comforting is pictures of the people we love and the memories we've made. I had a blank wall and as I was sitting on the couch one day I asked Ted if it would be possible to hang 2 x 4 (which we used 1 x 4) and he said of course. Seriously, easy project. I've thought we can change out the photos with seasonal pictures or feature different things.

One my favorite days EVER is of course my lovely wedding day (which you can read about here). I keep it around with looking at my bouquet that I conveniently hung in our bedroom. I used a thrifted frame (discarded the horrid artwork) and nailed it to the wall.

You've heard about my love of all things photography... Now let's talk about frame walls. I made the above frame collage with 21 frames. 21 frames at regular price would have been more than I was wanting at the time to spend. I ventured out to a local thrift store and picked about half or maybe a little over of the frames you see. The rest I already had on hand. I decided at the time to paint all the frames black for a cohesive look. (I'm currently in the process of re-doing this frame wall.

Art work. Make your own. Take a picture and try to paint what you see. Be creative. Just paint. I'm no artist but I love art. Because, I love it I put effort in where ability lacks. It's all for fun.

With all the blogs and pins out now, there are countless DIY projects we can all learn from. Hope you got a good fill of some fun projects. Be inspired. Make something new. Paint something old.

Thanks Carrie and all your lovely readers.

XO,

Tamara

a.toodle.lee.do

2011-06-29T05:45:00.000-07:00

I am so excited that Tamara over at a.toodle.lee.do asked me to guest post for her today! I have been following her blog for a while now and she is one of my original favorites! After you read my guest post HERE, be sure to cruise around her blog and check out all of her incredible posts! I love her style and the simple, yet classy way she has decorated her home! She inspires me so much!

(How cute is she?!)

Have a wonderful day!

Workin' the Walls with Allison

2011-06-27T05:29:00.000-07:00

Hi I'm Allison from Nestful of Love. I'm so excited to be guest blogging for Carrie today! You may or may not know this, but Carrie and I are friends in the real world. We met in college and were roommates our senior year. We lived on the top floor of our adorable little house and had easy access to the roof. Here is a throwback picture of us for your viewing pleasure. I miss being this girl's roomie!

While she's away, I'm going to be sharing some house decorating ideas with you. In the town where I live they do something every year called Homerama. Houses in a new ritzy neighborhood get decorated and fully furnished and then people can tour them for ideas or if you are rich you can actually buy one. I noticed a few themes in the decor of these houses that I am going to be sharing with you today.

House trend #1: Wall murals

Instead of wall paper or artwork hanging around your house it seems the new trend is to paint murals directly on to your wall. I saw this in at least one room in each house I toured and I would love to have a tree mural in my own home someday!

Source: ohdeedoh.com via Allison on Pinterest

Source: elementsofstyleblog.com via Kate on Pinterest

House trend #2: Hand painted "wall paper"

Wall paper is a little outdated, but apparently painted wall paper is in. Here are a few examples of hand painted wall paper. Get ready for the Cinderella room. I am in love.

Source: jonesdesigncompany.com via Julie on Pinterest

To really make your rooms stand out invest some time into the wall treatments. IKEA has wall murals that simply stick to the wall otherwise if you are artsy use your wall as a canvas and have a little fun. I also have friends who have used stencils to create one of a kind wall paper. There's nothing another coat of paint can't hide!

That's all I have. Thanks for letting me take over your blog today Carrie Jo.

Feelin' Crafty with M^2

2011-06-26T04:51:00.000-07:00

Hi there! I know you probably came to this blog today to hear from Carrie, but I’m doing a little guest posting for her today! Let me introduce myself and maybe you’ll stick around anyway?! I hope so! :o)

I’m Mindy from M^2 . Carrie & I are “sponsors” of each other’s blogs… or in other words, we support & encourage each other as bloggers! Carrie is such a sweet friend of mine, who I would have never met if it weren’t for our men.

Her husband and my boyfriend became friends a few years back, as they are both musically inclined. They both play music for John Tibbs and also play at Church together. Long story short, Ryan (my boyfriend) now lives with them temporarily – and I jokingly like to call Todd & Carrie his “house parents.” All kidding aside, they are very sweet for sharing their home and guest room with Ryan as he recently finished up college. Now I joke that he will be their “nanny” come October, but I don’t think he’s up for that job! ;o)

Anyway, I’ve come to know both Carrie & Todd pretty well now that I’ve spent quite some time around their house. Even though they are a few years older and a few “steps” ahead of Ryan and I, we have a lot in common!

As I said already, Ryan & Todd are both musicians and Carrie, ahem, Mrs. Liles, is a teacher – and I am on my way to joining her! Ryan and I both enjoy photography, and Todd is into it as well (I am trying to convince Carrie she would love it too!) One thing we all like to do together is ride bikes or just chat over some coffee (sometimes very late at night while standing in the kitchen!) Fun little fact: We both met our “significant others” in high school!

I love reading Carrie’s blog (don’t you?!) because it’s full of such fun little snippets of her life, including some DIY/craft ideas! If you check out my blog here, I think that you will find that our blogs are pretty similar.

I (try) to embrace my creative side once in a while and find neat projects to do. Around Valentine’s Day, I was on a huge crafting kick for a bit. And then school got in the way and the weather became nicer, and now I have a long list of things I’d LOVE to do… eventually.

A few things that I made (if you’d like to check them out!) were origami hearts , a yarn wreath & finger knit garland.

But the great thing about crafting/creating/doing-it-yourself is that the sky is the limit! It doesn’t have to be a huge involved project, but it can be something as simple as spray painting a frame for a new print or using a wine bottle as a vase for fake flowers.

Here’s a few projects that I would love to try (when I get a free moment!) By the way, if you don’t have Pinterest, leave me a comment with your email address and I’ll invite you. You can find soo many great ideas there. Please also share some DIY ideas in the comments!

*Spray painted folding chairs – so simple, yet effective! Who would’ve thought?!

Source: flickr.com via Mindy on Pinterest

*Embroidery hoops with NO embroidery involved. Just with a piece of fabric (or doily) stretched over them. How CUTE!

Source: purlbee.com via Mindy on Pinterest

Source: goodknits.com via Mindy on Pinterest

*Yarn-wrapped letters (I’ve started this, but it’s tricky! At least the letter “M” is!)

Source: letbirdzfly.blogspot.com via Mindy on Pinterest

Source: lastejeymaneje.blogspot.com via Mindy on Pinterest

*Pinwheels – what great photo props these would be!

Source: lisaleonardonline.com via Mindy on Pinterest

*Someday, I want to paint a dresser like this. So awesome.

Source: norskeinteriorblogger.blogspot.com via Mindy on Pinterest

Thanks for reading! :o)

Guest Bloggin' Fun!

2011-06-25T05:18:00.000-07:00

I am so excited for this next week of blog posts! I have had some incredible bloggers guest post for me throughout this entire week! They have some great ideas and tips and I can't wait for you to read them all! Be sure to check in each day this week for a new guest blog!

And speaking of guests...check out these adorable "Guest Book Trees"! What a unique and creative way to remember all of the special people at your wedding! There are different variations, but I am loving this Etsy seller's stuff! Check out the shop HERE!

Or some of them already have the leaves on for you and the guests sign the leaf...

There are great colors to choose from! Too bad I didn't think of this when I was getting married! But...if you are a bride...you should check it out!

Be sure to leave our guest bloggers a comment and show them some bloggin' love! Have a wonderful week!

Is this weird?

2011-06-24T09:46:00.000-07:00

So you know...we have 2 dogs...Russ and Audrey (brother and sister...almost 3 years old)...and they always seem to end up in random posts... like HERE and HERE for example.

Well here is a weird (at least we think it is) daily occurrence at our house...

...Audrey chewing Russ' whiskers! She is constantly going at it!

And he just lets her, he doesn't seem to mind! Notice her long whiskers and his lack of whiskers!

Here is he probably thinking, "Ah enough!" or maybe "That's the spot!" Haha!

Does anyone else have this happen? Audrey is a little "off" at times...we like to call her Awkward Audrey...but we love her all the same!!!

(They aren't too happy with me right now because they are at the groomer's getting their "summer shave" as the groomer likes to call it!)

Purchased 5k

2011-06-22T10:40:00.000-07:00

A couple of weekends ago Todd and I, along with some other young adults from our church ran a 5k sponsored by Purchased. The purpose of the race was to raise awareness for human trafficking and sexual exploitation. Did you know that every 30 seconds ONE child is purchased in to slavery? The race was titled, Run for ONE. A lot of people from our church hold this issue near and dear to their hearts. They have had the opportunity to travel to Cambodia and spend some time with girls that have been rescued out of sexual exploitation. They have witnessed some very powerful stories and moments.

Here are some pictures from the race...

3.1 miles completed! Todd rocked and ran a great time! I wasn't too far behind him (haha ok I was about 10 minutes behind him but I'm ok with that!)

With our fun friends Seth and Kelly!

Way to go Seth on completing your first race! (Notice his shirt haha!)

The girls! (Yes I know my eyes are closed...but I didn't want to leave everyone else out!)

And the best part is that we ended the afternoon with lunch at Le Peep...mmm granola stuffed French Toast!!!

1 Solution!

2011-06-16T12:10:00.000-07:00

Remember how I got these for Christmas...

...and asked for ideas on to use them HERE?

Well I have put one to use as a pot for a Hen and Chicks plant (HERE is the Wikipedia definition in case you were curious...because I was)! It is the perfect size for it and these are the easiest plants to maintain!

Remember, I am a sucker for Ball Jars...as described HERE.

There were tons of them in a planter when we bought our house and since then I have moved some of them around...

And I keep a planter full of them in the back for whenever I need more or want to give some to friends.

They are super easy to pull out and they never seem to die! At one point last Spring, I had pulled them all out but about 3 of them and by this Spring the planter was full again!

I just pulled several out for a friend and they are already filling back in!

Happy gardening! :)

Cards! Cards! Cards!

2011-06-15T12:22:00.000-07:00

One thing that I love is handwritten notes in the mail...yes real mail! I have some incredible friends that send me the best cards and I love it! I save them all and have a project in my mind as to how to display them...one day I will get around to it. I like to keep cards around the house so I don't have to go out and buy one every time. My favorite place to pick up note cards is Michaels. They sell them in bunches of 8 and they are usually only $1 for a pack! Stellar deal! My stock was running low so I went to Michaels yesterday to get more and much to my surprise...they were on sale 2 for $1!!! Cha-ching! And to top it off, the photo boxes were on sale for $2!!! So I snagged all of this for only $7.50! I love adding to my card collection!

I love the random assortment they have! Combined with the cards I already have, I am stocked and ready to go!

Cali, over at Home Awaits, posted about getting her cards organized HERE, and she inspired me to do the same last night! I made different tabs for the cards and put them in the box. The tabs I made were:

Blank
Hello
Birthday
Baby
Get Well/Sympathy
Inspire
Thank You
Invites
Envelopes (I don't know why I have so many extra envelopes hanging around.)

I also put one of my favorite pens and some stamps in the box. I feel so organized and accomplished! And on top of that, I already have my Grandpa's Father's Day card in the mail! I am on top of it for once!

Any other organizing tips I should know about...I am feeling in the mood to keep this train going! :)

Girls' Night!

2011-06-14T14:00:00.000-07:00

Last night my girlfriends and I got together to celebrate all the June birthdays (there are 3 of us)! We used to try to go to The Melting Pot for cheese and chocolate every year, but in the last couple of years we haven't made it... :(! But this year we went! Yum! Yum! Yum! You can't go wrong with cheese and chocolate! It's not like we don't hang out a lot (we just had a pitch-in dinner last week), but it is always so much fun when we get together...especially when we all ride together in one car!

(If you aren't familiar with The Melting Pot, it is a fondue restaurant...check it out HERE. It is a great place for dinner...it is an intimate atmosphere and so much fun cooking your dinner at the table together! It always calls for great conversation...especially, "Man Overboard!"... when you lose your food in the pot! Todd and I celebrated our 3rd wedding anniversary there last year.)

The girls! (minus 2 that were still on their way)

Emily is due about 1 month after us...it is so fun to swap stories and go through this together! :) She is waiting to find out if it is a boy or girl...so fun!

P.S. When I bought the skirt I am wearing, I didn't really know if it was a skirt or top...still not sure...so some days I wear it as a skirt, some days as a tube top (tied up or untied) and sometimes it is a swimsuit cover up. I love versatile pieces!

Now...off to do some organization...post to come tomorrow with details!

Classic

2011-06-09T11:21:00.000-07:00

I know that I am now technically in my late 20's (weird) and I should have more of a sophisticated taste...but...when I got home from class today this is what I made for lunch...

...a Fluffernutter sandwich! Yum! I remember that I had marshmallow fluff left over from a dessert I made and I couldn't resist making this for lunch! I know there are a ton of different names for this sandwich, but for some reason I have always stuck with "fluffernutter"! Anyone have any other names?

Happy Thursday! :)

Transformed Magazine

2011-06-08T15:21:00.000-07:00

My super cute sister-in-law, Megan (Who also has a little bun in the oven arriving in October...fun times for our family!) has been a part of a new online magazine for women...Transformed Magazine! Each month they feature a different topic and this month it is "belonging". They also have all sorts of fun, interesting and inspiring things to read about - fashion, beauty, mommas, kitchen fun, transforming stories, news, fitness...and so much more!

If you haven't checked it out, take a minute and click on over there! You can also sign up for their free monthly newsletter! Let me know what you think! :)

Chicago!

2011-06-05T06:02:00.000-07:00

Todd surprised me yesterday for my birthday by taking me to Chicago to see one of my favorite bands...Augustana at The House of Blues. It was such a great concert and we had incredible seats...none of that standing in mobs of people for me! Just the perfect present!!

source

They were co-headlining with The Maine. We had never heard of them, but a bazillion screaming girls had! They were loving them! Anyone listen to them? Thoughts?

source

We got there in the early afternoon and had fun hanging out...one of our favorite things to do...wander around new places! We hit up some of our favorite stores and did lots and lots of walking! While in the Patagonia store, I spotted these adorable letters (not for sale, just a sign). I thought they it would be a fun DIY project.

If you don't want to make them...you can buy them HERE (for florals) and HERE (for stripes and plaids).

We had the best stuffed pizza at Giordanos...yum yum yum! Todd has been there before, but I was a first-timer!

Todd was so great...he drove the whole way home, super late at night while I slept! I am a lucky lady to have such an amazing guy! :)

MDW

2011-06-01T17:11:00.000-07:00

Memorial Day Weekend was so relaxing and fun! Ah...just what I was hoping for! :) Todd and I had a fun time seeing family at an Open House, went to a friend's wedding (and the bride was oh so beautiful in an incredible dress)...if you want to see pictures of Kelly and I with the bride and her take on the day, go HERE, went to a Going Away party for our dear friends, The Thomas' (read their story and find out about their journey HERE) and a cookout! Here are a couple fun pictures...

(Thanks Kelly for taking these pictures!!! Everyone be sure to check out her blog HERE to see more pictures!)

Todd and I with the Thomas' (minus their other 2 boys) and The Gibbs @ their Going Away party.

All 3 babies...Sutter, Kason and our bun in the oven! Look how sweet Kason is with his hand on my belly! Love that little man! I got some quality time with him this weekend! :)

P.S. - Notice the floral dress...you may just very well see me in that ALL summer long...soooo comfy!

Florals

2011-05-31T18:21:00.000-07:00

Florals! Florals! Florals!

I am absolutely LOVING all of the floral prints that I have seen at stores lately! A few of these pieces are new, but most of them I have had...so I am glad that florals are hitting the stores this season! These are some of my favorite pieces!

Well it worked!

2011-05-28T10:30:00.000-07:00

What do you do with no tape and a present that needs to be wrapped??? Use a glue stick! I really did not want to go out to buy tape so luckily I found a glue stick...and yes, I glued the whole present together...and it worked! :)

Now...off to decide what to wear in a short amount of time! Wish me luck! :)

Something New!

2011-05-25T15:00:00.000-07:00

My sweet friend Sarah got me two books for my birthday that I am oh so excited about! I can't wait to dig in to them!

One of them is:

I have never cooked from Real Simple before and I am excited to try! Has anyone used this book before? What are some of your favorite recipes?

And the other book I am super super super excited about is...

I haven't heard of this before but Sarah said it was one of her favorites! Has anyone read this before? Thoughts?

Happy Wednesday! :)

Ah so good!

2011-05-21T13:22:00.000-07:00

It has been another great weekend! And this is how it has gone so far...

1. Todd and I, along with Mindy and Ryan rode our bikes on the Monon Trail in Indy on Friday for about 13-15 miles. It was gorgeous out!

2. Later that night I caught up with my friend Karrie over a fun evening of chatting and a movie. We saw Something Borrowed...it was really cute! And we (maybe just me haha) ate LOTS OF POPCORN! (Our eyes were a bit bigger than our tummies and we shared a large popcorn, 2 large drinks and Rasinetes! Yum!! Totally worth it!) Ah so sad that she is moving...but be sure to check her blog to see the incredible adventures her family is about to take on! :)

3. Got up early to another beautiful day out! Enjoyed my breakfast on the front porch with the dogs. Potted a plant that I got a couple of weeks ago. And much to my surprise, noticed that a plant that I thought was dead has bloomed again!

4. Saw Water for Elephants with Lauren today (we missed Kelly...she couldn't make it!) We all read the book and were excited for the movie. It was great! I haven't seen a movie in theaters in so long and now I have seen 2 in 2 days! (Now we are reading The Help and the movie comes out this summer! I am cheap and don't want to buy it so I have been spending time at Barnes and Noble reading it while I have it reserved at the Library!)

5. Chili with the husband for dinner tonight! (Thanks to his gracious Mom for bringing some over for us!)

6. Girls' Night Tonight! I have mentioned before HERE and HERE how much I love my high school friends! We have all been friends since Middle School actually! We have a lot to celebrate...Jill (or shall I say Dr. Jill) has graduated from IU School of Dentistry, Mel has graduated from IU Law School and 2 pregos! (yay Emily!) Pictures to come! :) Of course we wish Lee could join us from Cali...maybe a little video chat will do the trick...and Stephanie!!!

Have a wonderful weekend! :)

Tiny Houses

2011-05-18T13:31:00.000-07:00

More often than not I will come home to the Tiny Houses Blog pulled up on the computer. Todd has been interested in these for a while and the more I look at them the more I like them. If you are wondering what a "tiny house" is...it is exactly what it sounds like...a very small house! It allows you to live simple with truly what you need. Here is a short video of the owner behind this incredible company...

Now his house is about 89 square feet...which they are not all that size. The largest is the B-53 which is 777 sq. ft. (or can be made in to a 3 bedroom with 874 sq. ft.). I think they are adorable! Yes, it would take some getting used to, but I think we could do it for sure! Now the dogs...that could be difficult but we would make it work! I mean we do all sleep in a tiny tent together! :)

Here are some of the models...

Think you could do it??? :)

Happy Snaps!

2011-05-16T14:37:00.000-07:00

This past weekend Todd and I had a blast at John and Emily's wedding! And there was this really really incredible guy that played guitar and sang a song while the bride walked down the aisle and during the ceremony...he was soooo dreamy...oh that's right...that would be my husband! :) Any who...at the reception Happy Snaps Photo Booth was there and it was a great addition to the party! The Bride and Groom made some fun props ahead of time and everyone had fun posing with them! And the best part...you instantly got a strip with a magnet on it for FREE! And you can even go online and view all of the different pictures that everyone posted!

Me and that dreamy guy...

And our goofy table...notice the two in the back...they just followed along with the couple's picture...even though they are not a couple haha! :)

Recognize anyone in that photo??? Well you may notice Ryan and Mindy...they were the photographers for the wedding and I can't wait to see the pictures. Also, check out Mindy's take on Happy Snaps HERE and view some different pictures she posted...and she even put up an adorable one of the Bride and Groom...don't miss out!

So have a Happy Snaps day to you! :)

Catching Up!

2011-05-14T12:52:00.000-07:00

Phew... it has been a busy week! But we have made it to the weekend ladies and gentleman!!! My week has been full of all sorts of things...

1. Cooking this for dinner...

I love asparagus!

And homemade garlic mashed potatoes...yes please!

2. Rehearsal and Wedding

(Todd played some songs in John and Emily's wedding...they had a beautiful ceremony and are now on their vacation...ah!)

3. Getting the flu...boo!

4. Eating a snack on the porch with the dogs! :)

5. Finding a bunch of mail from college that I never sent to all my friends ... oops! It was stuck in a weird pocket in an old satchel I used to carry.

6. Getting things ready for a group garage sale with a couple of my friends...and hanging out there for a bit! And the best part...actually selling a good chunk of our stuff!

7. Starting a new book ... The Other Wes Moore

7. Eating a BLT, fries and pickle at about 11:00 pm :)

Photo Shoot

2011-05-10T10:17:00.000-07:00

Todd and I had the amazing opportunity to do a little photo shoot with the incredibly talented Amanda and Andy from Amanda Fales Photography. We had such a blast with these two taking some photos! Todd and I were really wanting to get some photos of just the two of us and we are so pleased with how these turned out! If you haven't already checked out her blog (where you can see more of our photos)...pause everything you are doing and do so now HERE!!! And if you are in need of a photographer, they're your pair! :) (You may remember me mentioning her in this post of mine HERE.)

These are a few of my favorite photos...but I only put a few of them on here so you would go to her BLOG and check out the rest. :)

Thanks again Amanda and Andy!!!

Interview Time!

2011-05-03T13:31:00.000-07:00

Some of you may have noticed my newest Sponsor on my side bar. It just so happens that she and I had a little interview time. I would love for you to check out her questions and my responses HERE...and you just might learn a little something new! :)

Be on the lookout for her interview on Life of the Liles! :) Now I am off to give my hand at another pot of flowers...wish me luck! :)

I wanted to let you know...

2011-05-02T13:33:00.000-07:00

...that I love this coffee mug! (haha randomness again but that's ok!) This was Todd's Great-Grandmother's and I think it is adorable! It was just the right size for me and my Saturday morning coffee this past weekend! It is especially great when I catch Todd drinking out of it...because...it is...well...so manly! :)

And now off to half-off sushi night with friends! Yum! :)

PS-Thanks for all of the great comments on the Wedding Details post. If you haven't had a chance to comment or read the great ideas...do so! :)

details, details, details...

2011-04-30T13:33:00.000-07:00

In honor of the magic of the Royal Wedding and as wedding season is practically here (we have 2 just this month)...I thought it would be fun for all of us to "think wedding". My question for is:

What was your favorite part/detail of your wedding? Now I know we will all say things such as, "seeing our husband/fiance waiting for us at the end of the aisle, the I-dos, etc." But I want to focus on the details of planning the day. What was your favorite detail that you added to your wedding to make it unique and yours? Was it your invitations? Your favors? Location? And don't feel left out if you aren't married! What is something that you have always dreamed of doing/having in your wedding? Or what is something that you have seen at another wedding that you just loved?

For me, I would have to say my favorite detail of the day was the song I walked down the aisle to. I had always dreamed of walking down the aisle to "Somewhere Over the Rainbow" (Hawaiian version by Israel Kamakawiwoole...listen, it is playing right now if your sound is on). For me, it was the icing on the cake for our outdoor wedding. Every time I hear the song, it brings a smile to my face!

I can't wait to hear all about your favorite details! And for those of you who still have a wedding to plan one day, you might just find your new must-have detail here! :)

...and I liked our lanterns too! :)

Paints

2011-04-28T13:16:00.000-07:00

Kristyn over at Read July mentioned yesterday that she has finally decided, after much paint color indecision, to paint her office a light grey. Personally, I love grey walls...being that two of our rooms are grey. Sometimes it can be really hard to get just the right color of grey...or any color for that matter. But I think Restoration Hardware has it all right...check out some of their colors...

I love their choice of colors. And even if you don't choose to buy from them (we didn't), it might be worth it to take a swatch to your local paint store and try to match it.

Flint Paint Collection

Bay Laurel Paint Collection

Slate Paint Collection

Silver Sage Paint Collection

Butter Paint Collection

Shore Paint Collection

Flax Paint Collection

White Paint Collection

Now, I ~~talk~~ blog like we did this when we repainted our ENTIRE house...but no, for some reason the thought never came to mind. Luckily, our colors turned out ok...except for one...the color was called Sweet Potato...and it was horrible! It was seriously the color of flesh...yuck! That was repainted immediately!! But if you are ready to do some painting, it might be worth checking out!

PS - Fun fact - Kristyn and I went to college together and were both members of Camarada (our school's version of a sorority). I always remember how to spell her name because we had a friend named Kristy and she always said, "It is the same thing as Kristyn, just add an 'n' ". Now every time I think of her name, I think of that.

Have a great day! :)

Totally Random Thoughts

2011-04-27T14:52:00.000-07:00

Today all I have for you are some random thoughts running through my head...

1. There is something so refreshing to me about buying cleaning supplies...before I have even used them...maybe it is just the thought of every thing being clean and germ-free.

2. I am about to go pot a little plant, but the pot I liked is a little big...so I will just cut up a plastic jug (I finished the lemonade today) and throw that in the bottom to take up space. Hope it works!

3. I always crack up at the word verifications when leaving a comment on blogs...sometimes they are just ridiculous! I should start making a list of the words that I am asked to type.

4. Came across a new blog today (she was guest-blogging)...and yes, I stalked her blog for a bit - I think you should too! Tales of Me and The Husband

5. I am making plain old spaghetti tonight for dinner and I can't have spaghetti without a big class of ice cold milk. Any one else like spaghetti and milk out there?

6. I watched the movie Morning Glory last night and I thought it was adorable! Now I am on the hunt for the soundtrack!

source

7. I only had about 20 pages to finish in my book last night before bed (Jodi Picoult - Picture Perfect) and I fell asleep with about 5 pages left! Ah I hate that! So all day I was anxiously awaiting getting home to finish it...because of course I couldn't manage to wake up 10 minutes earlier to finish it!

source

8. I can never decide...do I like things "centered" on my blog or "left-aligned". Big decision I know haha!

9. And is it "grey" or "gray"?????

Well that's all for now...on to the pot and then that dinner! :)

Zooey Deschanel

2011-04-26T14:29:00.000-07:00

If you have your sound turned up you will notice that you are listening to She&Him. This is one of Todd and I's favorite things to listen to in the car.

source

I just love her style of...everything! I think her clothes, look and hair are so classic! And her voice is so unique and fun!

source

You might be thinking..."What do I recognize her from?" She has been in several movies...Elf, Yes Man, Almost Famous, Failure to Launch, The Happening and ...

source

500 Days of Summer - one of my favorite movies...if you haven't seen it, go for it!

Well thanks for stopping by today!

I want to make these!

2011-04-25T14:27:00.000-07:00

Aren't these handmade paper flowers adorable?!?! They are all over Etsy and now I am wanting to try them out for myself!

Check some of these out...perfect for a little spring touch!

How beautiful for a bride or bridal party! Buy HERE.

Fun colors! Buy HERE.

Love these..almost looks like old books and maps! Buy HERE.

Simple and classic. Buy HERE.

And wouldn't these be fun hanging on the wall like this...

Buy HERE.

Happy Monday!

P.S. - Meet Russ and Audrey's (our dogs) Uncle Wilson (Todd's Mom's dog)...our house guest for the weekend...we had so much fun with him!! I am not used to having such a tiny dog around but it was nice!

Home Awaits Us

2011-04-23T12:35:00.000-07:00

Cali, over at Home Awaits has been doing a DIY posts that she has compiled from some of her readers and friends. Such a great idea lady! She was ever so nice to ask me to post about one of the projects that I did. I would love for you to check it out HERE! Be sure to check out all of the other DIY projects on her other posts...there are some great ideas that I am especially excited to give a try!! And trust me, you won't be disappointed by her blog!! Enjoy!

It's that time of year...

2011-04-20T18:00:00.000-07:00

...for SPRING DRESSES!!! I am loving all of the floral prints I have been seeing! Here are some of my favorites...

Urban Outfitters - $69

Urban Outfitters - $59

I think the goal might be to find one that you really like and then accessorize it to make different looks...hummm...I must try soon! :)

What do you do when...

2011-04-18T14:36:00.000-07:00

...you just got home from work and you are ready to marinate some BBQ chicken and you come to find that you don't have any BBQ sauce at home??? MAKE YOUR OWN!

I remembered that I have a recipe for BBQ sauce in my With Love From My Kitchen Recipe Book...ah to the rescue!!

BBQ Sauce

1 1/2 c. Ketchup

1 tbsp. Worcester Sauce

1 tbsp. Soy Sauce

1 tbsp. Cider Vinegar

1/2 tbsp. Paprika/Crushed Red Peppers

1/2 tbsp. Garlic Powder

1 tbsp. Honey

(You can always add more or less of anything for taste!)

Now of course with me...I didn't have enough to do the recipe exactly...but I made do with what I had and it tasted pretty good in my opinion! (Can you tell I am a sucker for Kroger brand when I am not at Trader Joes??)

What are your backup plans when you are out of an ingredient??? Please share so we can all have some "go-tos"! :)

Spa Shower

2011-04-17T13:14:00.000-07:00

Today Kelly and I celebrated our friend Ashley at her "Bed and Breakfast/Spa Bridal Shower". It was such an adorable shower with so many great ideas! Her Mom and sister threw it for her and loaded us up with lots of spa goodies. We even have a gift card for a free facial for you and a friend...how incredible is that! :)

We started by applying a homemade face mask...

Next we split in to groups and made "Flossie's Fluff" and Soft Honey Lip Balm...

I was really impressed with how this turned out! I really like how it leaves your skin feeling!

I think the lip balm was my favorite...it was so simple and works so well! And you can't go wrong with honey!

Happy Sunday! :)

John Mark McMillan

2011-04-12T13:05:00.000-07:00

Last weekend Todd and I drove to Cincinnati, OH to see John Mark McMillan in concert. And it was extra special because we got to meet up with my old college roommate and her husband (Allison and Drew). It was so fun to see them and catch up...even if it was only for less than 24 hours! We ate dinner at a Cincinnati local favorite, Izzy's...known for their roast beef and potato pancakes...and it was good...extremely filling but good!

The concert was incredible! He is so talented! If you haven't heard of him before, you are listening to him right now (if you have your sound on)! :) After the concert we checked out their cute house that they have been working so hard on! Way to go you two! :) And last but not least we woke up to an incredible breakfast that they ever-so-kindly prepared for us! And she even had her "new favorite breakfast"...which she blogged about HERE!

We had to hurry home because my Mom was taking her dog (Sophie- my childhood dog) to the Vet. because she thought she was in pain, and maybe putting her to sleep would be the best thing (she is 16 years old). But no, she is only senile, not in pain! SOPHIE LIVES ON! YAYAYAAAYYY! :) :) :) :) :)

We always have to snap a dinner picture! Notice the HUGE potato pancakes on our plates!

Who would have thought...we park in a church parking lot to walk to the venue and we look up and see that our college choir is peforming there this weekend! What a coincidence! So of course we had to get the AU Alum in a picture! Todd looks thrilled! :)

Such a good show! Check his stuff out if you haven't yet!

The four of us! So much fun!

Thanks Allison for taking the pictures and letting me use them! Be sure everyone to click on over to Nestful of Love to hear what Allison thought of the weekend! (WARNING-there are some classic oldies-but-goodies college pictures of us...a little scary...at least of me!)

Yusuke Hanai

2011-04-11T14:28:00.000-07:00

One of the galleries that we walked through in Pacific Beach was called Surf Indian...and was actually connected to an incredible surf shop. One artist that I really liked was Yusuke Hanai. He painted many things on wood and they really caught my eye. Now being realistic...I will never own a piece of his art work ($)...but they are super fun to look at!

I really love all of the colors and the texture that the wood adds to the pictures. I wonder...just maybe...it would be possible to attempt to recreate one of these babies for less??!? Maybe find some old pieces of barn wood, paint them with colored wood stains, fit them in to a frame??? This might be a summer project that I will try...any other takers??

Happy Monday! :)

Trader Joe's

2011-04-10T17:13:00.000-07:00

One of Todd and I's favorite things to do is go grocery shopping together (haha I know it sounds lame, but for some reason we love it)! We always love going to Trader Joe's to shop (the closest one is about 20 minutes away). We love buying things that are quality and organic and we have found that Trader Joe's has the best prices and most unique things (as well as the tastiest).

I was just on the website this afternoon and never realized that they have recipes! I am super excited now! And most of them are pretty quick and easy! Here are a few that look great to me...

Waffle Breakfast Blueberry Ring

-1 package frozen waffles

-1 package cream cheese

-1 package blueberries (fresh or frozen)

-2 tbsp. sugar

-1 splash vanilla

Toast waffles according to directions on box. While waffles are toasting, combing blueberries, cream cheese, sugar and splash of vanilla in a food processor or blender and mix until smooth. Spread the blended mixture between two waffles, sprinkle on a few whole blueberries, sandwich and enjoy.

Serves: 6

Cooking Time: 10 minutes

Fire Roasted Yellow and Red Pepper Grilled Turkey Sandwich

-2 slices sourdough bread

-2 tablespoons pesto alla genovese

-2-3 slices smoked turkey breast

-1 jar fire roasted yellow and red peppers

-1-2 slices havarti cheese

Spread a tablespoon of pesto on each slice of sourdough bread. Evenly cover one layer of bread with a few slices of turkey, peppers and cheese. Cover with the second layer of bread and place on a panini press or cast iron skillet. Grill over medium heat until brown, then flip. Grill until both sides of bread are golden brown and cheese has melted.

Serves: 1

Cooking Time: 10 minutes

Vanilla Pineapple Upside Down Cake

-1 package Vanilla Cake Mix

-1 1/4 stick unsalted butter

-2 eggs

-1 cup milk

-4 tbs. organic brown sugar

-2 cups frozen pineapple tidbits

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. In a large bowl, combine 1 stick of butter, 2 eggs and milk with the cake mix; set aside. In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the brown sugar and remaining 1/4 stick of butter; mix until all the brown sugar has dissolved (about 5 minutes). Carefully pour the syrup into the bottom of a cake pan, lay the pineapple pieces over the syrup, and then fill with the cake mix. Place inside the over for 40 to 50 minutes, or until you can pierce the center with a toothpick, and have it come out clean (also you can give it a quick shake; if it jiggles like gelatin, give it more time). Let cool. Carefully put a plate over the cake pan and flip it over so the pineapples are on top.

Serves: 5-6

Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes

I hope these recipes give you some cooking inspiration! Have an incredible few hours left of the weekend! :)

C by the S (+ seals)

2011-04-09T15:54:00.000-07:00

One day we went over to Cardiff by the Sea to wander around. We chose the area because they have a Patagonia store and whenever we are by one we try to hit it up (like the time we were in Freeport, Maine). We don't always buy, but we love to look (you can find stellar deals online with their stuff)! We also checked out this incredible beach...it was so beautiful! It seemed so calm and peaceful and way less crowded than where we were staying.

I love how the clouds reflect on the water.

So calm...

I loved walking by all the seaweed and stepping on the "poppers"...I don't really know what they are called but it was fun! (and sorry for all the pictures of the husband taking pictures...haha don't know why I do that!)

We also spent some time wandering around La Jolla and came across Seal Beach (that might not be the official name, but it works for now). It was so cool...I have never seen anything like it! There were just a ton of seals chilling out on the beach...and it is all natural...they are there on their own! I have never seen them that close up before! In the face they sort of look like a dog but then the rest of their body is a blubbery mess haha! They just waddled around, swam and sunned! It was so funny to see them when they had an itch!

They are not dead...this is how they lay haha!

Just hanging out on the rocks!

Happy Saturday! :)

Oh the food!

2011-04-07T14:22:00.000-07:00

Of course one of the best parts of vacation is the FOOD! And we ate our fair share of it (good thing we had those bikes and we walked a lot)! Here are some of my favorites that I will be recreating at home:

Taco Surf in Pacific Beach is known for its California Burrito! It was no doubt the best burrito I have ever had (we ate here 3 times)! Here is what was in it:

-Fresh flour tortilla

-Carne asada

-Shredded Cheddar Cheese

-Sour Cream

-Guacamole

-Hash browns (Yes I said it...hash browns! It sounds weird but it was soooo tasty!)

The inside of Taco Surf had tons of surf boards and posters everywhere...almost like a surf museum!

Todd and I rode our bikes to La Jolla to eat at Harry's. He has eaten here a few times on various trips and he insisted I try the French Toast...mmm glad he helped me me that decision (We went back for a second time this trip)!

This was loaded with fresh bananas and pecans covered in delicious maple syrup! And yes...that is a rather large dish of butter sitting to the side...vacation right!?! :)

And unfortunately I don't have a picture of my other favorite restaurant...Sweet and Savory Cafe (we ate here 4 times!). They had incredible cafe sandwiches with hand carved meat. My favorite was The Brie:

-Croissant Roll

-Hand carved Turkey

-Granny Smith apples

-Brie Cheese

-Cranberry Mayonnaise

Now that I have officially just made everyone and myself hungry I am off to cookout with friends! First cookout of the season!!! :)

Stayin' Classy in San Diego!

2011-04-06T14:38:00.000-07:00

I promise I have a good excuse from being absent from the blog...VACATION! Yay! I have been craving some sunshine and warmth and what better way to get those than going to San Diego for Spring Break! Todd and I went with four other friends and stayed for 8 days...it was wonderful! There were only a couple cloudy days and the rest were warm and sunny! The pictures are going to come in a few different posts...but here are the first batch...(In preparation for the trip we had everyone over to watch Anchorman...only seemed appropriate when heading to San Diego!)

We rented bikes for the week and had so much fun cruising around the area! Money well spent! (It was fun remembering how to use pedal brakes too!)

I am sitting on a bench right outside of our hotel. I sat here every evening and watched Todd surf!

Speaking of Todd...I don't know why but I always like taking pictures of him taking pictures...haha! While he was taking pictures with his nice camera, I was using my iPhone for all of my pictures. I am sure his pictures will look incredible compared to these...but it was fun!

And the sunsets...ah so beautiful!

Different every night!

Love it!

If I lived in a beach town...I would totally rock one of these!

Love the purple!

The water was pretty chilly but oh so pretty! :)

Restoration Hardware

2011-03-27T07:29:00.000-07:00

This weekend Todd and I strolled through some of our favorite stores...one of them being Restoration Hardware. We love most of the stuff they have in their store! Especially the furniture...it just screams, "Come sit and relax!". Here are some of my favorite pieces put together in a gallery room...

I love this couch! So comfy!

This is another favorite couch of mine! A little bit too formal for our house...but still beautiful regardless!

I like the look and feel of this room!

Grab a warm mug of coffee and sit and stay awhile!

Such a fun kitchen...and with a fireplace? Yes please! :)

I really like the simplicity of the table.

Ah this bed! And the mirror!

Nice open and clean bathroom!

If you ever get a chance to walk through this store...don't pass it up! And by the way...they sell their paint colors in the store as well!

Guest Bloggin'!

2011-03-22T13:52:00.000-07:00

While the incredible writer of Reverie is spending time with her beautiful newborn daughter, Iris...I had the pleasure of guest blogging for her over at Reverie. Hop on over there and give it a looksie and let me know what you think! :)

KAG

2011-03-21T14:06:00.000-07:00

As you may remember, I threw a couple of baby showers for my friend Kelly (couple's shower and one @ school). Well I am sooooo excited to tell you that Baby G has arrived! He has the perfect name...Kason Asher! Click on over to Life@319 to see some beautiful baby posts by his incredible Momma! I know I am biased...but he is a cutey!!!!

Sea of Necklaces

2011-03-13T17:04:00.000-07:00

As I started thinking about the spring/summer clothes I am going to pull out of storage, I realized I have a ton of plain tanks and tees that I love. So in order to spice things up, it is always fun to add a necklace...a necklace can change an entire outfit...at least I think. I found some incredible necklaces at Anthropologie...and some of them are flat out too expensive for me...but it gets my mind thinking about different ways I can recreate these necklaces.

Check out some of my favorites (sorry there are a ton)...

Lanky Ribbons Necklace

Rock Candy Necklace

Preserved Gypsophila Necklace

Mayoria Necklace

Areito Necklace

Sandlot Necklace

Delicate Things Necklace

Gilded Cord Necklace

Sugared Lace Necklace

Trifecta Necklace

Unbreakable Bonding Necklace

House*Tweaking

2011-03-11T16:59:00.000-08:00

Lately I have stumbled upon the most incredible blog...House*Tweaking. This lady has done so many beautiful, unique and thoughtful things in her home.

This is what she has to say about her blog...

Hi, I’m Dana… a suburban homebody tweaking our builder boring house into a bona fide modern home - on a budget. I have two lil’ kids, a Handy Hubby and a part-time job, so most projects are done while kids are napping, late at night or on weekends. I tend to lose myself in interior design magazines, books and blogs. I enjoy the thrill of a killer deal, geometric prints, linen and imperfect perfection. House*Tweaking is my blog designated to tweaking houses into homes, little by little, with a lot of creativity and a little bit of money. {I may throw in some Mama humor just for good measure.} Oh, and I like to use punctuation…a lot!

Check out some pictures of her place...

I am in love with this headboard and the colors...best of all...it was completely DIY! Ummm...husband can you make us one?!?! :)

I love the assortment of chairs and pillows at the table!

Recognize this picture?? She was featured on Apartment Therapy!

This looks so calm and relaxing!

Ok...so I am telling you to browse on over to her blog! You will love it!

Hope your Friday has been great! :)

Surprise!

2011-03-09T11:30:00.000-08:00

This has been one of the longest blogging breaks I have taken in a while...sorry!!! But I'm back! :)

Remember how I told you that I organized a Surprise dinner/party for my incredible friend...here are a couple pics...

Surprise! I told the waitress, "table for 2 please"...little did the birthday gal know that we already had a table!

The gals with the birthday girl!

(Notice the book wreath sticking out of the polka dot bag...that's right...I made another! I used a 10inch foam wreath this time, along with an old dictionary and cook book. And guess what...as I was ripping out the last couple of pages of the dictionary I came across a check for $150.00 from 1990!!! It is completely filled out, so I am going to mail it to the address!)

And...smassshhhh! Classic!

Can't have a party without the giant sombrero and whip cream being smashed in your face! She was a great sport! Love this girl!

Happy Wednesday! :)

LifeoftheLiles

Really Carrie?

Tried and True

It's that time of year...

3rd Post Ever

Tex-Mex Couscous

Out with the...

Fun Things!

Madewell

Guest Bloggin'!

It's OK!

Winter Song

Textures and Patterns

Pinterest

Farewell!

Happy :)

Great minds think alike!

DIY Bulletin Board

Haha

Burlap Wreath

Bikes and a Baby!

Samuel!

New Fall Recipe!

So Sweet!

S & S

Oh nothing much...

UO Catalogue

Hooked!

Button Necklace!

4 years!

Purple Pond

"Stayin' Alive"

Dog Days of Summer

Goodwill Gold!

Summer Nights!

Moustache Fun!

Finding your Decorating Style with Cali

Style Tips from Kristyn

Make it Yours with Tamara

a.toodle.lee.do

Workin' the Walls with Allison

Feelin' Crafty with M^2

Guest Bloggin' Fun!

Is this weird?

Purchased 5k

1 Solution!

Cards! Cards! Cards!

Girls' Night!

Classic

Transformed Magazine

Chicago!

MDW

Florals

Well it worked!

Something New!

Ah so good!

Tiny Houses

Happy Snaps!

Catching Up!

Photo Shoot

Interview Time!

I wanted to let you know...

details, details, details...

Paints

Totally Random Thoughts

Zooey Deschanel

I want to make these!

Home Awaits Us

It's that time of year...

What do you do when...

Spa Shower

John Mark McMillan

Yusuke Hanai

Trader Joe's

C by the S (+ seals)

Oh the food!

Stayin' Classy in San Diego!

Restoration Hardware

Guest Bloggin'!

*K*A*G*

KAG