National S'mores Day
+
The forecast for my area
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New birthday chairs that need to be used
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One pretty awesome day!
8.09.2011
A little math equation
Sorry for posting twice in one day, but I just realized something pretty amazing....
You better believe we'll be sitting on our patio tomorrow evening making s'mores around our fire pit! I can't think of a better way to spend a Wednesday evening.
What's In A Name
Lately, I've been a little bit obsessed with buying nail polish. It doesn't help that Target started selling Essie colors or that an Ulta recently opened near our house. I've always thought nail polish color names are cute/creative/funny/weird and think it would be really fun to sit in on the name selection each season. I know I have sat in my fair share of creative meetings (I used to work at an ad agency) and I know how crazy the idea process can get, so I can only imagine what those creative meetings are like.
So with that thought in mind, I dug into my bag to check out the names of the colors I've recently purchased or been given. OPI has the best color names by far, so I will start with those:
My Address is "Hollywood"
I got this color for my birthday, but I'm excited to try it out since the name indicates people like the Kardashians might be wearing it this fall.
Color To Diner For
I mean, this color really is to die for, but I'm not so sure where the "diner" comes in??
Red Hot Ayers Rock
Seriously? I love the color but I don't even know what to say about this one...
Essie's colors are a little more understandable (and affordable!) and the colors are more unique and perfect for summer toes!
Cute As A Button
This color is so self explanatory because it truly is "cute as a button"! I currently have this color on my toes and I just love it!
French Affair
This color is really trendy right now so I wanted to try it out, but I must admit, I'm a bit scared.
It's Genius
The perfect purple color for Fall (or to wear with an awesome teal dress!) - it truly is genius!
Watermelon
A little boring, but couldn't be more dead on. The color really is the perfect match to the real thing!
Haute As Hello
A hilarious play on words, but I must admit the color does not look so "haute" on my nails. Maybe it's my skin complexion but Brandon thought the color was better suited for a 16 year old. Major fail!
So, what really is in a name? If you were to come up with the perfect nail polish color and name, what would it be? I like alliteration so I think I would like Sassy Sangria (a pinkish red) or maybe something cute like Pucker Up (a grapefruity pink color) - my descriptions are pretty awesome, huh? I think I'll stick to my day job...
So with that thought in mind, I dug into my bag to check out the names of the colors I've recently purchased or been given. OPI has the best color names by far, so I will start with those:
My Address is "Hollywood"
I got this color for my birthday, but I'm excited to try it out since the name indicates people like the Kardashians might be wearing it this fall.
Color To Diner For
Red Hot Ayers Rock
Essie's colors are a little more understandable (and affordable!) and the colors are more unique and perfect for summer toes!
Cute As A Button
French Affair
This color is really trendy right now so I wanted to try it out, but I must admit, I'm a bit scared.
It's Genius
Watermelon
Haute As Hello
So, what really is in a name? If you were to come up with the perfect nail polish color and name, what would it be? I like alliteration so I think I would like Sassy Sangria (a pinkish red) or maybe something cute like Pucker Up (a grapefruity pink color) - my descriptions are pretty awesome, huh? I think I'll stick to my day job...
8.08.2011
Weekend Wrap-Up
Well, the 2011 Birthday Celebration is on the downhill slide. I had a fantastic week and weekend celebrating and I still have a few more small get-togethers left. I'd say 28 has been pretty great so far!
After a busy week, I think I crashed on Friday. From the minute I got home from work until I woke up the next morning, I was in bed with a crazy headache. I'm used to headaches, but this was the worst headache I've had in a while. So, our Friday night was pretty shot. Thankfully, Brandon has his company golf tournament that day so he was pretty worn out and was perfectly content just hanging out and relaxing.
Saturday morning I felt like a new woman so we got up and got busy tackling a list of home projects. We spent most of the morning working around the house and then went out to run several errands in the afternoon.
Saturday evening, we had dinner reservations at Luciano's, one of my favorite restaurants in our area. We met up with two other couples for a little friend birthday celebration. Oh my gosh. Our meals were so good, but the company was even better! There really is nothing like gathering with good friends. We are so thankful to have such wonderful people in our lives! After we finished dinner, and our complimentary birthday cheesecake (1 piece, 6 forks!), we rolled ourselves out of the restaurant and headed home for the evening.
Sunday, we skipped out on church and tackled a few outside projects while it was still relatively cool. Brandon mowed and cleaned out the window wells, we got my new patio chairs all set up, rearranged our other patio furniture, and we cleaned out our garage. I'm pretty sure our garage hasn't ever been as clean as it is right now. Now if we can only keep it that way...
After we finished our projects, we got ready for a little family birthday celebration. We always get together with my Wichita aunts, uncle and cousins to celebrate birthdays. My parents also came to town to spend the day with us. Mom and I ran a few errands in the afternoon while the men watched golf and then we got busy preparing my birthday meal. We had fajitas, Chipotle rice, salad, guacamole, and Carlos O'Kelly's chips and salsa. My mom also made my grandma's chocolate sheet cake and homemade ice cream! YUM!
We ended up eating dinner and cake and ice cream in the basement because our AC just couldn't keep up. I believe it was 110 degrees yesterday, which eliminated the chance to eat outside. Thankfully, we had TV trays, our pub table, and a card table to fit everyone. Here is a picture of me blowing out my candles...
I also got to open a few fun gifts - OPI nail polish and a cute bracelet. Koby realized I was getting more attention than he was so weasled his way up in my lap while I opened my gifts. Crazy dog!
I hope everyone had a great weekend. I know ours was too short (as it usually is), but Monday is here whether we're ready or not.
After a busy week, I think I crashed on Friday. From the minute I got home from work until I woke up the next morning, I was in bed with a crazy headache. I'm used to headaches, but this was the worst headache I've had in a while. So, our Friday night was pretty shot. Thankfully, Brandon has his company golf tournament that day so he was pretty worn out and was perfectly content just hanging out and relaxing.
Saturday morning I felt like a new woman so we got up and got busy tackling a list of home projects. We spent most of the morning working around the house and then went out to run several errands in the afternoon.
Saturday evening, we had dinner reservations at Luciano's, one of my favorite restaurants in our area. We met up with two other couples for a little friend birthday celebration. Oh my gosh. Our meals were so good, but the company was even better! There really is nothing like gathering with good friends. We are so thankful to have such wonderful people in our lives! After we finished dinner, and our complimentary birthday cheesecake (1 piece, 6 forks!), we rolled ourselves out of the restaurant and headed home for the evening.
Sunday, we skipped out on church and tackled a few outside projects while it was still relatively cool. Brandon mowed and cleaned out the window wells, we got my new patio chairs all set up, rearranged our other patio furniture, and we cleaned out our garage. I'm pretty sure our garage hasn't ever been as clean as it is right now. Now if we can only keep it that way...
After we finished our projects, we got ready for a little family birthday celebration. We always get together with my Wichita aunts, uncle and cousins to celebrate birthdays. My parents also came to town to spend the day with us. Mom and I ran a few errands in the afternoon while the men watched golf and then we got busy preparing my birthday meal. We had fajitas, Chipotle rice, salad, guacamole, and Carlos O'Kelly's chips and salsa. My mom also made my grandma's chocolate sheet cake and homemade ice cream! YUM!
We ended up eating dinner and cake and ice cream in the basement because our AC just couldn't keep up. I believe it was 110 degrees yesterday, which eliminated the chance to eat outside. Thankfully, we had TV trays, our pub table, and a card table to fit everyone. Here is a picture of me blowing out my candles...
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| {Hi Aunt Sharon!} |
I also got to open a few fun gifts - OPI nail polish and a cute bracelet. Koby realized I was getting more attention than he was so weasled his way up in my lap while I opened my gifts. Crazy dog!
I hope everyone had a great weekend. I know ours was too short (as it usually is), but Monday is here whether we're ready or not.
8.05.2011
Pinnable Me Friday - DIY
This week's edition of Pinnable Me Friday features some of my favorite DIY ideas. I'm really hoping to execute a few of these ideas soon, so stay tuned for the reveals!
I saw this and thought it would make for a great Christmas centerpiece or a neat way to burn citronella candles on the patio. All you have to do is wrap twine around the outside of an old pickle/salsa/jelly jar, then spray paint the jar with the color of your choice, and remove the twine. So easy!
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I found this idea before I got the new patio chairs (with the thought in mind that someday I might own those chairs..yippee!) and I can't wait to put my own twist on it. I have already given Brandon the task of finding the pallets and I hear he may have found a few already so this project may get completed soon, as in the next week.
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We also have the chairs that are shown with the table. We got them on the clearance at Target for $12 a piece. See, I really am becoming a bargain hunter!
A while back when I was in my hometown, my mom and I visited the local flower shop and the florist had a display that used twigs sprouting up out of a really neat rectangular vase and it was set up in front of a mirror. I really liked the idea, but have had a hard time finding the perfect container to recreate the same look. But, when I saw this idea, I thought it would be easier to assemble and create a much more dramatic look. I think this would be a fun textural piece to place above our mantle.
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I know it is a little early to be thinking about making Christmas decorations, but with the 100+ degree weather that is keeping me inside I'm beginning to run out of things to do. I love the look and feel of the cute feather trees that are sold in most retail stores, but they are a little expensive and a little trendy. I think this is a fun (and cheap) DIY copycat that shouldn't take too much time to create and I won't feel guilty if I decide not to use them year after year.
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And last but not least. I think I've mentioned before how I like to find new uses for old things. Well, would you believe the art below was made out of toilet paper rolls???
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I think a larger scale piece like this would look great above our bed or in our basement behind our pub table.
So, what DIY ideas do you have going on in your home?
I saw this and thought it would make for a great Christmas centerpiece or a neat way to burn citronella candles on the patio. All you have to do is wrap twine around the outside of an old pickle/salsa/jelly jar, then spray paint the jar with the color of your choice, and remove the twine. So easy!
I found this idea before I got the new patio chairs (with the thought in mind that someday I might own those chairs..yippee!) and I can't wait to put my own twist on it. I have already given Brandon the task of finding the pallets and I hear he may have found a few already so this project may get completed soon, as in the next week.
We also have the chairs that are shown with the table. We got them on the clearance at Target for $12 a piece. See, I really am becoming a bargain hunter!
A while back when I was in my hometown, my mom and I visited the local flower shop and the florist had a display that used twigs sprouting up out of a really neat rectangular vase and it was set up in front of a mirror. I really liked the idea, but have had a hard time finding the perfect container to recreate the same look. But, when I saw this idea, I thought it would be easier to assemble and create a much more dramatic look. I think this would be a fun textural piece to place above our mantle.
I know it is a little early to be thinking about making Christmas decorations, but with the 100+ degree weather that is keeping me inside I'm beginning to run out of things to do. I love the look and feel of the cute feather trees that are sold in most retail stores, but they are a little expensive and a little trendy. I think this is a fun (and cheap) DIY copycat that shouldn't take too much time to create and I won't feel guilty if I decide not to use them year after year.
And last but not least. I think I've mentioned before how I like to find new uses for old things. Well, would you believe the art below was made out of toilet paper rolls???
I think a larger scale piece like this would look great above our bed or in our basement behind our pub table.
So, what DIY ideas do you have going on in your home?
8.04.2011
Bargain Hunter?
Brandon likes to give me a hard time when it comes to my preferences. He believes he could line up three versions of the same item that all cost three different prices and inevitably I would pick the most expensive item. And, most times he is probably right. It's not that I think I need expensive items, I just tend to gravitate towards them. This is not something that should come as a surprise to him, though. I even believe my parents warned him about that before we got married so he knew what he was getting in to.
Along with having expensive taste, I'm not the best bargain hunter because I get impatient. I wish I was the type (or had the time) to scour the end-of-season sales to score good deals, but it always seems by the time I get to the sales everything is picked over. So, in the past I just haven't wasted my time hunting and digging through sale racks. That is until recently...
I mentioned yesterday that I scored a huge deal on the patio chairs that I had been eyeing all season. Well, would you believe me if I told you I got four chairs for the price of one? No? Here is the proof!
If you do the math, I got these chairs for 70% off!!! This is something for the record books, my friends. Because I browse Crate and Barrel's website at least twice a week, I was able to catch the sale pretty early and made the purchase. I think Brandon was shocked when I told him of the deal. In fact, he might have been speechless. And I have never been so excited to announce such a deal to him!
But, the bargain hunting didn't stop there. Oh no. I'm on a roll now. This past weekend, we were killing some time before dinner so we stopped in Banana Republic. Brandon was looking for sunglasses and I was looking for anything that was cute and fun (I had a little extra money burning a hole in my pocket). Well, we browsed around and I found a top that I liked, but I wanted to try it on with a pair of grey pants to see what it would look like. I didn't currently have a pair of grey pants that fit, but I had planned on purchasing some in the near future. The kind sales clerk told me there were still a few pairs of grey pants on the sale rack and on that particular day they were offering an additional 25% off the sale prices. Knowing my luck, there wouldn't be any pants my size, but sure enough there was one pair in my size! Again, this never happens.
To make a long story short, the shirt that I originally liked did not look as cute on me as it did on the hanger and neither did any of the other shirts I tried on, but I did walk out with those pants that we only paid $16 for! Can you believe that? I didn't see the original price of the pants, but I'm sure they were priced similarly to pants I've gotten before and I figure these pants were roughly 80% off. I was proud. Brandon was shocked (and proud) and we both left happy!
Moral of this story - I think I might be turning into a bargain hunter!
Along with having expensive taste, I'm not the best bargain hunter because I get impatient. I wish I was the type (or had the time) to scour the end-of-season sales to score good deals, but it always seems by the time I get to the sales everything is picked over. So, in the past I just haven't wasted my time hunting and digging through sale racks. That is until recently...
I mentioned yesterday that I scored a huge deal on the patio chairs that I had been eyeing all season. Well, would you believe me if I told you I got four chairs for the price of one? No? Here is the proof!
If you do the math, I got these chairs for 70% off!!! This is something for the record books, my friends. Because I browse Crate and Barrel's website at least twice a week, I was able to catch the sale pretty early and made the purchase. I think Brandon was shocked when I told him of the deal. In fact, he might have been speechless. And I have never been so excited to announce such a deal to him!
But, the bargain hunting didn't stop there. Oh no. I'm on a roll now. This past weekend, we were killing some time before dinner so we stopped in Banana Republic. Brandon was looking for sunglasses and I was looking for anything that was cute and fun (I had a little extra money burning a hole in my pocket). Well, we browsed around and I found a top that I liked, but I wanted to try it on with a pair of grey pants to see what it would look like. I didn't currently have a pair of grey pants that fit, but I had planned on purchasing some in the near future. The kind sales clerk told me there were still a few pairs of grey pants on the sale rack and on that particular day they were offering an additional 25% off the sale prices. Knowing my luck, there wouldn't be any pants my size, but sure enough there was one pair in my size! Again, this never happens.
To make a long story short, the shirt that I originally liked did not look as cute on me as it did on the hanger and neither did any of the other shirts I tried on, but I did walk out with those pants that we only paid $16 for! Can you believe that? I didn't see the original price of the pants, but I'm sure they were priced similarly to pants I've gotten before and I figure these pants were roughly 80% off. I was proud. Brandon was shocked (and proud) and we both left happy!
Moral of this story - I think I might be turning into a bargain hunter!
8.03.2011
Feeling VERY Blessed
I now realize why I love celebrating my birthday so much - birthdays are such confidence builders! Between the cards, text messages, phone calls, and Facebook messages, I definitely felt loved and extremely blessed. I heard from friends I hadn't heard from in a while and I talked to each member of my family all in one day!
I also made out with some pretty sweet birthday gifts, and let's be honest, we all love gifts!
First off, Brandon was so sweet this year. I got these pretty flowers delivered to work right before he picked me up for lunch.
I also got a pretty fun little present - a new camera! I love our "big" camera, but it can be a bit of a hassle sometimes, so I've been wanting a new pocket-sized camera that I can slip into my purse. And I must admit, this camera takes pretty darn good pictures!
Brandon also loaded the following message on the camera so when I turned it on, I scrolled through each picture to read the message.
He's a keeper, huh?!?
Prior to my birthday, I received my gift from my parents. Actually, if I'm going to be honest, I contacted them when they were on their trip last week to inform them that something I've been wanting for a LONG time was finally on sale and it would make for a great birthday gift but since it was on sale, I should probably go ahead and get it ordered and they agreed. I will fill you in on the "deal" later, because it was like the best deal I've ever gotten. Ever. But, enough about that, here it is!
Ta da!! I got the chairs that I have been drooling over all summer!! I was so excited and I love them even more than I imagined I would. Now, if it would only cool down a little so we could actually use them! I did have to test them out for a short time though and they are so comfy.
I can't wait for a cool fall evening when we can sit outside around the fire pit roasting marshmallows and eating s'mores!
I also received some birthday money from Brandon's parents along with a few other very generous people and I plan to treat myself to a pedicure and massage. Nothing says birthday celebration like a day of pampering!
Along with all of this, I have wonderful friends that I've made lunch plans with everyday this week and others who have also been extremely generous gift givers. As I mentioned, I just feel so blessed this year and I can't imagine my life without all of these people have surrounding me.
I also made out with some pretty sweet birthday gifts, and let's be honest, we all love gifts!
First off, Brandon was so sweet this year. I got these pretty flowers delivered to work right before he picked me up for lunch.
I also got a pretty fun little present - a new camera! I love our "big" camera, but it can be a bit of a hassle sometimes, so I've been wanting a new pocket-sized camera that I can slip into my purse. And I must admit, this camera takes pretty darn good pictures!
He's a keeper, huh?!?
Prior to my birthday, I received my gift from my parents. Actually, if I'm going to be honest, I contacted them when they were on their trip last week to inform them that something I've been wanting for a LONG time was finally on sale and it would make for a great birthday gift but since it was on sale, I should probably go ahead and get it ordered and they agreed. I will fill you in on the "deal" later, because it was like the best deal I've ever gotten. Ever. But, enough about that, here it is!
Ta da!! I got the chairs that I have been drooling over all summer!! I was so excited and I love them even more than I imagined I would. Now, if it would only cool down a little so we could actually use them! I did have to test them out for a short time though and they are so comfy.
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| {excuse the outfit and the wondering hose} |
I also received some birthday money from Brandon's parents along with a few other very generous people and I plan to treat myself to a pedicure and massage. Nothing says birthday celebration like a day of pampering!
Along with all of this, I have wonderful friends that I've made lunch plans with everyday this week and others who have also been extremely generous gift givers. As I mentioned, I just feel so blessed this year and I can't imagine my life without all of these people have surrounding me.
8.02.2011
Today I'm 28
I had a hard time deciding what to write about today. It's hard to write about myself. I'm much better at bragging on other people. So, I decided to list 28 things I've learned this year.
- Life is an adventure and you just never know what is around the next corner.
- It's okay to verbalize your feelings, just do it with respect.
- Sometimes, the only way to heal your heart is to bake chocolate chip cookies.
- Set goals and work everyday to achieve those goals because the payoff is that much sweeter.
- Sonic Happy Hour really does make me happy!
- Indulge once in a while.
- If I say I'm going to grow my hair out, I need to do it. I always regret it once I cut it.
- Always make time for a friend because they will always make time for you.
- I have been hit with the travel bug and want to experience so many places.
- When you feel overwhelmed drop everything and pray -- instant relief!
- Sometimes you have to take the reins and steer the horse yourself (that is supposed to be a metaphor, but I'm not sure if it came out right...oy!)
- After a long hard day, it is so nice to come home to a puppy who is dancing around with excitement as you enter the house.
- It's okay to let loose sometimes ;)
- Patience really is a virtue.
- It's okay to make plans, but don't let those plans get in the way of other opportunities.
- Next time it is freezing cold for multiple days in a row, don't wish for warmer weather because you just might get what you wished for...and more.
- Finding bargains really is thrilling!
- It is nice to take time for yourself and you shouldn't be ashamed to do so.
- I'm a reality TV junkie and I'm okay with it.
- Never miss an opportunity to say "I Love You" to those you love because life really is short.
- I like to carpool to work with Brandon - the extra company in the morning is kind of nice.
- I will always pack too many clothes, no matter where I go.
- Work hard no matter who is watching.
- Trust your gut and your instinct.
- Don't think about what you don't have, but focus on what you do have.
- Pandora radio is a really great thing.
- Get out of your comfort zone every once in a while -- I've done this cautiously :)
- I like sushi now :)
8.01.2011
Banana Bread Brownies
I've mentioned before how much I love the Fat Witch Bakery in NYC. We first discovered the bakery on our trip a few years ago and re-visited the bakery when we were in NYC this summer. On this trip, I decided to bring home a treat that would keep on giving - the Fat Witch cookbook!
This cookbook is full of tasty recipes, including my favorite of all Fat Witches, the Blondie. There is something about the Fat Witch Blondies that I just can't get out of my head. They are delicious!
Since I've been on a diet (and am still maintaining), I have not had a chance to dive into the cookbook. There are so many recipes that it was hard to know what to waste points on, so I just left it in the cabinet. However, today was the day to bust it out and start baking.
While I was tempted to make the blondies, I decided to try something new. After all, I know how good the blondies are and I know they will always be a great go-to recipe. This time, I decided to try Banana Bread Brownies. I had some old bananas that needed to be used and I really couldn't think of anything better to make than this recipe.
These little bites are the perfect balance between banana bread, which is dense and moist, and a brownie which is rich and fudgy. Brandon says they go perfect with a glass of cold milk, and I would probably agree if I was the milk-drinking type.
Below is the recipe for these lovely treats. I cut ours into 16 pieces, you know, since I'm dieting and all. But, feel free to cut them however big, or small, you'd like!
Fat Witch Banana Bread Brownies
6 tablespoons unsalted butter
3/4 c. semisweet chocolate chips
1 tsp. vanilla extract
1 3/4 c. very ripe bananas, mashed (about 3-4 bananas)
1/2 c. granulated sugar
3 large eggs, slightly beaten
1 3/4 c. flour
1/2 tsp. salt
1 c. coarsely chopped walnuts (optional)
Grease a 9x9 inch baking pan with butter. Dust with flour and tap out the excess. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.
Melt the butter and chocolate in a small saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently. Remove heat and set aside to cool.
In another bowl, mix the vanilla and sugar into the mashed bananas. Add the beaten eggs and continue to mix until everything is well combined.
Measure the flour and salt and sift together directly into the banana batter and mix well to combined. If desired, stir in the walnuts (I definitely omitted this step!!).
Using a spatula, fold in two-thirds of the cooled chocolate mixture until it is just incorporated. Spread the batter evening in the prepared baking pan and drizzle with remainder of the chocolate mixture on the top. Move the spatula in and through the batter to create streaks of chocolate.
Bake for 35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Remove from the oven and cool on a rack for 1 hour. Cut just before serving.
YUM!
7.29.2011
Pinnable Me Friday!
If you haven't heard of Pinterest by now, then you should really go check it out. Basically, it is a place to catalog ideas. Since I've been on such an organization kick, this online bulletin board has really come in handy. In the past, I would browse the internet and then email links to myself. Then, I'd have to scroll through email after email trying to find the link. Pinterest allows me to store everything in one place with just the click of a button. Amazing!
This week, I'm going to share some of my favorite organizational ideas with you. Some of these ideas are so practical that I'm sad I didn't think of them before now.
I am a terrible sheet folder and I'm always searching for matching pillowcases, so when I saw this idea I knew I needed to implement it immediately! Not only does this method keep all of the sheet sets together, it also helps de-clutter the linen closet.
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I love new uses for old things and this one is just too practical to not share. You know how Christmas ornaments never fit in the boxes once you are ready to put them away? Well, just start keeping all of your egg cartons from now until December and you won't have to worry about finding all of your ornament boxes again!
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This next idea might just be my favorite of all. How many times do you go to look for ribbon to wrap a package and the little piece of tape that you used to secure the end the last time you used the ribbon had come unstuck and your ribbon had unraveled all of your storage box? Never again! Can you believe this? Why didn't I think of it?
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I've always wanted to utilize the space under the kitchen sink a little better and now I know how!
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Happy Pinning!
This week, I'm going to share some of my favorite organizational ideas with you. Some of these ideas are so practical that I'm sad I didn't think of them before now.
I am a terrible sheet folder and I'm always searching for matching pillowcases, so when I saw this idea I knew I needed to implement it immediately! Not only does this method keep all of the sheet sets together, it also helps de-clutter the linen closet.
I love new uses for old things and this one is just too practical to not share. You know how Christmas ornaments never fit in the boxes once you are ready to put them away? Well, just start keeping all of your egg cartons from now until December and you won't have to worry about finding all of your ornament boxes again!
This next idea might just be my favorite of all. How many times do you go to look for ribbon to wrap a package and the little piece of tape that you used to secure the end the last time you used the ribbon had come unstuck and your ribbon had unraveled all of your storage box? Never again! Can you believe this? Why didn't I think of it?
I've always wanted to utilize the space under the kitchen sink a little better and now I know how!
Happy Pinning!
7.28.2011
Fun Phone Photos
This is a picture of the the temperature around 4:00 p.m. yesterday afternoon. Ughhh!!
Due to the extreme heat, I took the dogs on a ride in the car the other night rather than taking them for a walk and this is what Koby did the entire car ride.
Due to the extreme heat, I took the dogs on a ride in the car the other night rather than taking them for a walk and this is what Koby did the entire car ride.
Speaking of Boston Terriers, I got this super cute magnent in the mail the other day! Natalie, you know me all too well!
I bought these flowers for myself last weekend. I told Brandon they would cheer me up while he was away. Aren't they neat? I don't remember what they are called, but they were in the loose flower bunches at Dillons. I love them!
If this isn't a pitiful, face I don't know what is. He was begging to get on the (unmade) bed.
7.27.2011
The Other White Meat
Yes, I grew up in a beef family where the slogan was "Beef. It's What's For Dinner," but we did eat "The Other White Meat" occasionally. So, I can appreciate a good pork recipe when I find one. And, I have definitely found one!
This past weekend we invited Brandon's sister and brother-in-law over to celebrate our joint birthdays a little early. A month before at Bunco, our hostess made a delicious pulled pork dish that left me wanting more, so I took this opportunity to make the recipe myself. And I think everyone liked it! I also made the Asian cabbage salad mentioned here, cheesy potatoes, and we had ice cream cake to celebrate...YUM!
2-1/2- to 3-pound pork sirloin roast
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon pepper
1 cup bottled chili sauce
Trim fat from meat. If necessary, cut roast to fit into a 3-1/2- to 5-quart crockery cooker. Sprinkle meat with the salt and pepper. In a large skillet brown meat on all sides in hot oil. Drain off fat. Transfer meat to cooker. Add onions, the 1 cup root beer, and garlic.
Cover and cook on low-heat setting for 8 to 10 hours or on high-heat setting for 4 to 5 hours.
Meanwhile, for sauce, in a medium saucepan combine the 3 cups of root beer and the chili sauce. Bring to boiling; reduce heat. Boil gently, uncovered, stirring occasionally, about 30 minutes or until mixture is reduced to 2 cups. Add root beer concentrate and bottled hot pepper sauce, if desired.
Transfer roast to a cutting board or serving platter. Using a slotted spoon, remove onions from cooking juices and place on serving platter. Discard juices. Using 2 forks, pull meat apart into shreds. Top with sauce just before serving.
**My sauce did not thicken like the sauce I had before. I'm not sure what I did wrong. It still tasted good, it was just a little runny.
Enjoy!
This past weekend we invited Brandon's sister and brother-in-law over to celebrate our joint birthdays a little early. A month before at Bunco, our hostess made a delicious pulled pork dish that left me wanting more, so I took this opportunity to make the recipe myself. And I think everyone liked it! I also made the Asian cabbage salad mentioned here, cheesy potatoes, and we had ice cream cake to celebrate...YUM!
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| {Photo courtesy of BHG.com} |
Pulled Pork with Root Beer SauceCourtesy of BHG.com
2-1/2- to 3-pound pork sirloin roast
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon cooking oil
2 medium onions, cut into thin wedges
1 cup root beer*
6 cloves garlic, minced
3 cups root beer (two 12-ounce cans or bottles)*
Trim fat from meat. If necessary, cut roast to fit into a 3-1/2- to 5-quart crockery cooker. Sprinkle meat with the salt and pepper. In a large skillet brown meat on all sides in hot oil. Drain off fat. Transfer meat to cooker. Add onions, the 1 cup root beer, and garlic.
Cover and cook on low-heat setting for 8 to 10 hours or on high-heat setting for 4 to 5 hours.
Meanwhile, for sauce, in a medium saucepan combine the 3 cups of root beer and the chili sauce. Bring to boiling; reduce heat. Boil gently, uncovered, stirring occasionally, about 30 minutes or until mixture is reduced to 2 cups. Add root beer concentrate and bottled hot pepper sauce, if desired.
Transfer roast to a cutting board or serving platter. Using a slotted spoon, remove onions from cooking juices and place on serving platter. Discard juices. Using 2 forks, pull meat apart into shreds. Top with sauce just before serving.
**My sauce did not thicken like the sauce I had before. I'm not sure what I did wrong. It still tasted good, it was just a little runny.
Enjoy!
7.26.2011
Being a Bachelorette
As shocking as it may be, this is not a post about "The Bachelorette" TV show. I know. Crazy, huh? Actually, I'd like to put it on record that I did NOT watch this season of "The Bachelorette" at all. I just wasn't interested. I guess I had better things to do.
Anyways, what I really want to talk about is the fact that I've been living a "bachelorette" life the past few days. That is right. Brandon has been out of town and I've been living it up as a "single lady" (ha!). I admit, I used to dread the times when Brandon would leave town. I hated being home alone. I hated coming in the house after dark. I hated trying to fall asleep with all of the noises outside. I pretty much hated everything about it. As time has gone on though, my attitude has changed a bit. And I think Brandon appreciates that I'm confident enough to stay by myself. He doesn't worry as much which allows him to have more fun. So, it all works out.
As I think about the things I looked forward to doing while he was out of town, I realized that a guy's idea of a weekend alone and a girl's idea of weekend alone are very different. When guys have a weekend alone they watch hours and hours of ESPN (or the Golf Channel in our household), invite their friends over to grill and drink beer, play golf, leave the bed unmade everyday, sleep in until noon, cook as little as possible, etc.
My idea of a girl's weekend definitely did not include any of the items above. Here is a breakdown of my weekend:
Brandon comes home this evening and I'm really looking forward to seeing him. I know he had a great trip, partly because he knew I was content here at home, and I had a great weekend taking some time for myself as a "bachelorette"!
And, I just saw a commercial for "The Bachelorette Men Tell All" show and I think I am super glad I didn't watch this season...a guy with a mask? Seriously?
Anyways, what I really want to talk about is the fact that I've been living a "bachelorette" life the past few days. That is right. Brandon has been out of town and I've been living it up as a "single lady" (ha!). I admit, I used to dread the times when Brandon would leave town. I hated being home alone. I hated coming in the house after dark. I hated trying to fall asleep with all of the noises outside. I pretty much hated everything about it. As time has gone on though, my attitude has changed a bit. And I think Brandon appreciates that I'm confident enough to stay by myself. He doesn't worry as much which allows him to have more fun. So, it all works out.
As I think about the things I looked forward to doing while he was out of town, I realized that a guy's idea of a weekend alone and a girl's idea of weekend alone are very different. When guys have a weekend alone they watch hours and hours of ESPN (or the Golf Channel in our household), invite their friends over to grill and drink beer, play golf, leave the bed unmade everyday, sleep in until noon, cook as little as possible, etc.
My idea of a girl's weekend definitely did not include any of the items above. Here is a breakdown of my weekend:
- Sushi dinner with a dear friend
- A knitting lesson and light dinner with a new friend
- Soaking in the bath tub every night
- Getting organized
- Making and eating recipes Brandon doesn't necessarily like (chicken salad, bruschetta, lemon bars)
- Running errands leisurely
- Watching uninterrupted reality TV
- A lunch date with a long-time friend
- Keeping a relatively clean and uncluttered house (I love you honey!)
- Feed two dogs two times per day
- Give one dog medication two times per day
- Move sprinkler daily
- Water plants and flowers daily
- Empty dishwasher by myself
- Make the bed by myself
- Take the trash to the dumpster (I hate taking the trash out!) and replace the trash bags
- Make sure all the doors are locked and the front porch light is on each night
- Play with the dogs at night (or take them for a drive since it is so hot out)
- Put gas in my car
- Make sure the house was picked up each morning so the dogs couldn't find anything to play tug-of-war with
Brandon comes home this evening and I'm really looking forward to seeing him. I know he had a great trip, partly because he knew I was content here at home, and I had a great weekend taking some time for myself as a "bachelorette"!
And, I just saw a commercial for "The Bachelorette Men Tell All" show and I think I am super glad I didn't watch this season...a guy with a mask? Seriously?
7.24.2011
Let's Get Organized, Organized!
(To the tune of Olivia Newton John's "Let's Get Physical")
Getting organized around the house is sort of like a work out. I mean, it takes a lot of patience and determination to go through the stacks that pile up on the counters or to weed through the coupons that have accumulated over time only to find out most of them expired a month before. But, thanks to this blog, I got inspired to combine all of my piles and lists into one source.
Introducing, my organization notebook (or my trapper-keeper as Brandon calls it...):
This notebook is a one-stop-shop for everything - menu plans, recipe ideas, coupons, to-do lists, coupons and gift cards, monthly calendars and birthday and anniversary reminders. Basically if it was piled on the counter, it ended up in this notebook.
I found several sources online that offered free printables which helped me to determine the categories for my notebook. I have listed the sources below, just in case anyone else gets inspired to get organized. Basically, I looked to see what printable lists, forms, etc. were available and then tailored those items to my everyday routine. The categories in my notebook are:
- Meal Plans and Recipes (with a pocket folder for recipe tear sheets)
- Shopping Lists
- Coupons (with a pocket folder to hold coupons, gift cards, special offers, etc.)
- To-Do Lists
- Calendar
- Blog Ideas
- Projects and Goals (with a pocket folder for idea tear sheets)
Notebook Sources:
