There are those days when my husband comes home from work and asks me what I did that day and I say "I don't know, just regular stuff". Yesterday I thought about it for another second and this is what I did...I'll have to say that, it makes me more tired thinking about it rather than actually doing it.
Get up, fix breakfast, eat
Clean up breakfast
Take shower, get ready
Get kids ready
Go to the Grocery
Go to the Bank
Stop by see husband at work
Take Alea to dance class
Come home, make lunch
Put Emme down for a nap
Clean up lunch
Remember that I have groceries in the car
Unload and put away groceries
Prepare taxes
Clean off desk in office
Get order ready to ship and another order ready to drop off
Put load of things for the thrift store in car
Snack for kids, I get ready to go to work (I work 2 evenings a week at a Fitness club)
Husband comes home, I leave
Go to Post Office to ship order
Drop off things at Thrift Store
Drop off another order
Drop off taxes
Go to Club and work until 9:15 pm
And really that is just an overview. It doesn't include cleaning, laundry and all the little things.
Honestly I have no idea how Mom's that work full time get anything done...really.
Tuesday, March 8, 2011
Friday, March 4, 2011
What have you been up to lately??
The day my Mom got here both of my kids got a cold. They seemed to get better by the time she left but the day after I noticed Emme was wheezing, so the next day I scheduled a Dr's appt. In the meantime Alea started crying that her ear hurt. Took them to the Doc, Emme has RSV, 2 ear infections and they think she is Lactose intolerant, Alea has an ear infection. So I have quarantined them for the past couple of days. It kills me to stay at home all day, it just makes the day forever long and I go stir crazy. Plus it has been snowing so we couldn't really go on a walk either. So what else is a Momma suppose to do???? Cook, Bake & Eat...
So me and my little helper got down to business and this is what we have made the last 2 days.
Homemade Salsa, Here is a similar recipe from The Pioneer Woman. We had this with corn tortillas & rotisserie chicken. Tigey cam home for lunch yesterday and I had a whole mexican lunch. He was surprised to say the least. I don't "cook" lunch.
Banana Bread, I will post the recipe later, it is from this cook book. If you don't have this cookbook, I highly recommend it. Great Stuff!
Homemade Pizza, I made my first pizza crust from scratch when my Mom was in town. I had leftover ingredients and decided to make another. I got Fleishman's yeast packets and just followed the recipe for the crust on the back. When my Mom was here I made one with turkey italian sausage and shredded mozzarella cheese and another with fresh mozzarella and tomatoes. Last night I just did shredded mozzarella because that is what I had left. For the sauce I just used a can of crushed tomatoes and added italian seasoning. Yummmm!
Today I made Peanut Butter Bread. You can find the recipe here.
Chocolate covered strawberries & Chocolate covered peanuts. I meant to make the strawberries for Valentine's Day but that never happened. I had bought chocolate covering and decided to use it. Typically when I make chocolate covered anything I just use chocolate chips but they were/are both super yummy. I just happened to have a thing of strawberries and about half a tin of peanuts.
Beans & Rice with Chicken, I cooked black beans and added rotel, then just cooked brown rice. I added feta cheese to mine and Tigey had cheddar cheese and sour cream. I think his version was better but I opted for a lower calorie version.
Plus Homemade Mac & Cheese, For this I just added freshly shredded cheddar cheese, half a block of cream cheese, about 1/4 of a cup of milk and spoonful of butter. I heated everything on the stove until melted. Transferred it to a baking dish, topped it with a little more cheddar cheese and plain panko bread crumbs. Baked for about 30 minutes, so good. We each only took a bite because we were too stuffed from the beans and rice. I am sure it will be even better for lunch tomorrow
So basically I was stir crazy and couldn't stop myself from making anything I had the ingredients for. Next time you see me I might be 10 lbs heavier....
8:20 on a Friday night and I am blogging.....
So me and my little helper got down to business and this is what we have made the last 2 days.
Homemade Salsa, Here is a similar recipe from The Pioneer Woman. We had this with corn tortillas & rotisserie chicken. Tigey cam home for lunch yesterday and I had a whole mexican lunch. He was surprised to say the least. I don't "cook" lunch.
Banana Bread, I will post the recipe later, it is from this cook book. If you don't have this cookbook, I highly recommend it. Great Stuff!
Homemade Pizza, I made my first pizza crust from scratch when my Mom was in town. I had leftover ingredients and decided to make another. I got Fleishman's yeast packets and just followed the recipe for the crust on the back. When my Mom was here I made one with turkey italian sausage and shredded mozzarella cheese and another with fresh mozzarella and tomatoes. Last night I just did shredded mozzarella because that is what I had left. For the sauce I just used a can of crushed tomatoes and added italian seasoning. Yummmm!
Today I made Peanut Butter Bread. You can find the recipe here.
Chocolate covered strawberries & Chocolate covered peanuts. I meant to make the strawberries for Valentine's Day but that never happened. I had bought chocolate covering and decided to use it. Typically when I make chocolate covered anything I just use chocolate chips but they were/are both super yummy. I just happened to have a thing of strawberries and about half a tin of peanuts.
Beans & Rice with Chicken, I cooked black beans and added rotel, then just cooked brown rice. I added feta cheese to mine and Tigey had cheddar cheese and sour cream. I think his version was better but I opted for a lower calorie version.
Plus Homemade Mac & Cheese, For this I just added freshly shredded cheddar cheese, half a block of cream cheese, about 1/4 of a cup of milk and spoonful of butter. I heated everything on the stove until melted. Transferred it to a baking dish, topped it with a little more cheddar cheese and plain panko bread crumbs. Baked for about 30 minutes, so good. We each only took a bite because we were too stuffed from the beans and rice. I am sure it will be even better for lunch tomorrow
So basically I was stir crazy and couldn't stop myself from making anything I had the ingredients for. Next time you see me I might be 10 lbs heavier....
8:20 on a Friday night and I am blogging.....
Tuesday, March 1, 2011
It's Been A While....
It's been a while..2 weeks almost...I have a whole list of excuses...but I will spare you. My Mom left today, she was visiting for the past week. I had big plans (huge plans to be exact) to get a ton of things accomplished. None of them happened. She came, watched my kids and I did...well I'm not sure what I did but I can tell you for sure it wasn't much. My mind and body went on vacation. It was fabulous. Thanks Mom. Now I have to come back to reality.
One thing I have started working on, is that I am challenging myself not to buy the girls any clothes at least through the summer. They have several things that I picked up on sale last summer and of course Baby Cutie has loads of clothes passed down from her Big Sis. Anything they need I am going to make it or refashion it. I have made a couple of things so far and once I get a few pics taken I will share. I am super excited about challenging myself. I can't promise that I won't buy anything because..well I just flat out like to shop and purchase things. No promises but I am gonna try to try!
The weather is beautiful so I am off to enjoy it. Hope to chat with you sooner rather than later :)
One thing I have started working on, is that I am challenging myself not to buy the girls any clothes at least through the summer. They have several things that I picked up on sale last summer and of course Baby Cutie has loads of clothes passed down from her Big Sis. Anything they need I am going to make it or refashion it. I have made a couple of things so far and once I get a few pics taken I will share. I am super excited about challenging myself. I can't promise that I won't buy anything because..well I just flat out like to shop and purchase things. No promises but I am gonna try to try!
The weather is beautiful so I am off to enjoy it. Hope to chat with you sooner rather than later :)
Wednesday, February 16, 2011
Sorry I got lost....
It has been over a week since my last post (gasp!). I have a millions things on my mind but haven't really felt like putting them out there. Life and motherhood takes over and well...I just get lost in life sometimes. I just feel like I go and go all the time (because I want to not because I have to) then I make and create new things often and I am just on auto-pilot. Then I breath and take time to enjoy life. The weather has been beautiful here the past several days, so we have enjoyed the sunshine and warm (45 degrees feels warm these days). Unfortunately when I am soaking up life, I take a break from virtual life. Anyway, I am back today and thought I would share a few pics of the loves of my life....
My baby cutie pushing a baby around that is practically the same size as her.
My big cutie getting ready for swim class.
Big cutie doing her chores while Mommy naps...if only but she LOVES to vacuum with her tongue out.
She likes to keep her tongue out while swimming too.
Then my hubs decided to be romantic..... this is what I woke up to after my girls night out...
It said, I love you more but it must have rubbed off while she was sleeping, dang baby!!
Anywho, I hope everyone had a fabulous LOVE Day.
Tuesday, February 8, 2011
Valentine's Day Fun
Okay, so LOVE Day is less than a week away and I am finally getting motivated to do a little decorating, crafts and baking. Here are some really cute projects that I am looking forward to.
Remember Mad Libs when you were a kid, check out this cute little printable from In Between Laundry. A little adult version of Mad Libs. I think I am going to print out several and maybe do a countdown to LOVE Day for the hubs. I just might print him out a couple too, so the love is full circle :)
I also loved this project from Martha Stewart and set out to do it last week when I was gathering the supplies and realized....ummm....we don't have a single crayon in this house. Remember this post. Well I really wanted to do this project because #1 it is easy #2 it is fast #3 it will be pretty hanging in our window. So I broke down and bought a small pack of crayons, not to keep, just to use this once.
Next I am going to make a couple simple heart pouches to hang on the back of our chairs to put little goodies in. I don't have a link, just something I thought of. I am going to cut out 2 felt hearts per pouch and then just sew up the sides, attach a ribbon and hang. Then throughout the day add little goodies. I will post pics once I make them.
I have many things that I want to bake. 1. basic heart sugar cookies and decorate with powdered sugar icing, sprinkles and anything else we can find to go on top. 2. chocolate covered strawberries, yummm Maybe with a bottle of champagne for me and the hubs :) 3. Valentine's Day Pops, really? Where have you been all my life? I love caramel and chocolate!
I also want to make these Berry Gummy Hearts. I found the recipe in Parents Magazine but didn't find it online so here it is. Puree a 12 oz bag of frozen, thawed berries. I am going to use strawberries. Strain to remove seeds. Pour 1 cup apple juice into microwave safe bowl and sprinkle with 5 packs of unflavored gelatin. Stir lightly to moisten and let stand 5 minutes. Add 1/2 cup sugar and 1/2 cup light corn syrup. Microwave, stirring often until the sugar and gelatin are melted about 1 1/2 minutes. Mix in the fruit and 2 tbs lemon juice. Pour in an 8" x 8" pan. Skim with paper towel to remove foam. Chill at least 3 hours until set. Dip bottom of pan in warm water and flip onto a cutting board. Use cookie cutter to make your favorite shape, hearts of course! Keep refrigerated until serving.
So that is what I have on my list. Maybe I will throw in a few more things if I can find the time and energy!
What are you making for LOVE Day.
Remember Mad Libs when you were a kid, check out this cute little printable from In Between Laundry. A little adult version of Mad Libs. I think I am going to print out several and maybe do a countdown to LOVE Day for the hubs. I just might print him out a couple too, so the love is full circle :)
I also loved this project from Martha Stewart and set out to do it last week when I was gathering the supplies and realized....ummm....we don't have a single crayon in this house. Remember this post. Well I really wanted to do this project because #1 it is easy #2 it is fast #3 it will be pretty hanging in our window. So I broke down and bought a small pack of crayons, not to keep, just to use this once.
Next I am going to make a couple simple heart pouches to hang on the back of our chairs to put little goodies in. I don't have a link, just something I thought of. I am going to cut out 2 felt hearts per pouch and then just sew up the sides, attach a ribbon and hang. Then throughout the day add little goodies. I will post pics once I make them.
I have many things that I want to bake. 1. basic heart sugar cookies and decorate with powdered sugar icing, sprinkles and anything else we can find to go on top. 2. chocolate covered strawberries, yummm Maybe with a bottle of champagne for me and the hubs :) 3. Valentine's Day Pops, really? Where have you been all my life? I love caramel and chocolate!
I also want to make these Berry Gummy Hearts. I found the recipe in Parents Magazine but didn't find it online so here it is. Puree a 12 oz bag of frozen, thawed berries. I am going to use strawberries. Strain to remove seeds. Pour 1 cup apple juice into microwave safe bowl and sprinkle with 5 packs of unflavored gelatin. Stir lightly to moisten and let stand 5 minutes. Add 1/2 cup sugar and 1/2 cup light corn syrup. Microwave, stirring often until the sugar and gelatin are melted about 1 1/2 minutes. Mix in the fruit and 2 tbs lemon juice. Pour in an 8" x 8" pan. Skim with paper towel to remove foam. Chill at least 3 hours until set. Dip bottom of pan in warm water and flip onto a cutting board. Use cookie cutter to make your favorite shape, hearts of course! Keep refrigerated until serving.
So that is what I have on my list. Maybe I will throw in a few more things if I can find the time and energy!
What are you making for LOVE Day.
Sunday, February 6, 2011
Super Bowl Easy Recipes
Super Bowl Sunday!! I decided on my menu last night. We might have a couple of people over no big deal. If you want to know the truth, I am not really into either team, so this year I suppose I'll just watch for the commercials and eat the yummy food. Any excuse to eat for the heck of it!
So I am going to slow cook a pork shoulder, have cubed sweet potatoes, salad and roasted red pepper hummus with veggies for an app. The best thing about all this is that everything will take me no longer than 30 minutes to prepare.
Roasted Red Pepper Hummus
Can of garbonzo beans, jar of roasted red peppers. Dump them in a blender, food processor or whatever you have. Add salt & pepper if needed and voila! Now just cut a few veggies and your done!
Yummy Salad dressing
Take balsamic vinegar about 5 tbsp, 3 tbsp olive oil, and jam or jelly (I like to use raspberry preserves but use whatever you like or have) plus salt, pepper and garlic powder, stir it up and your done!
Pork Shoulder
Okay, if you have never slow cooked a pork shoulder before, go get one at the store now. I'm telling you this is one of the easiest if not the easiest thing to make and your husband and any guests you have over will be kissing your feet after taking a bite of this bad boy. You can just grin and revel in the joy and success of knowing that you did basically nothing to get this love from all.
You can either cook it in a crock pot or the oven. The crock pot is good if you aren't going to be home through the cooking (I personally don't like leaving the oven on when I am not at home but will leave the crock pot? Probably doesn't matter just one of my things..) Another thing is that my crock pot although big sometimes doesn't hold the huge pork shoulder plus the crock pot cooks much slower so if you are limited on time, go with the oven. Either way, I rub the entire shoulder generously with salt and pepper occasionally I add a little paprika but that's it. If you want you can take a skillet and brown all sides, that helps hold the flavor in and makes the outside crispy. I don't always do this because well, it is still really freaking good anyway and sometimes I don't feel like it :) If you are using the crock pot just toss that baby in and turn on high. You will need at least 6 or 7 hours. I like to turn on high and then check it after 5 hours, you can always turn it down if it is near done. For the oven I use a big roasting pan with a rack on the bottom, make sure the shoulder is covered completely, either with a sealed lid or aluminum foil. I use aluminum foil almost always. Put it in the oven on 300 if you have plenty of time. if you don't have plenty of time turn it up to 350 or 400. You can gook about an 8 lb shoulder at 400 in about 3 hours. You can also turn the temp up in the oven to 400 or 425 and crisp the top, I usually do this at the end. Your shoulder is done when you can stick a fork in it and the meat literally falls apart. The outside will naturally be more dry than the inside, so don't worry that just means the inside will be just right. Plus there is more inside than out! Now you can add BBQ sauce and make sandwiches or just eat that bad boy plain, such goodness! Later if there are leftovers you can put on a tortilla and make a little pork taco too, yum!
Cubed Sweet Potatoes
I peel and cut the potatoes. When cutting try to make sure to cut the potatoes all about the same size, so they will cook at the same rate. Then I just get a cookie sheet, dump all the pots in, drizzle with olive oil ans sprinkle with salt pepper and the garlic Mrs Dash. Bake on 350 for 15 minutes, take out stir around and bake for another 15 or until a fork slides easily in.
Happy Super Bowl!!
So I am going to slow cook a pork shoulder, have cubed sweet potatoes, salad and roasted red pepper hummus with veggies for an app. The best thing about all this is that everything will take me no longer than 30 minutes to prepare.
Roasted Red Pepper Hummus
Can of garbonzo beans, jar of roasted red peppers. Dump them in a blender, food processor or whatever you have. Add salt & pepper if needed and voila! Now just cut a few veggies and your done!
Yummy Salad dressing
Take balsamic vinegar about 5 tbsp, 3 tbsp olive oil, and jam or jelly (I like to use raspberry preserves but use whatever you like or have) plus salt, pepper and garlic powder, stir it up and your done!
Pork Shoulder
Okay, if you have never slow cooked a pork shoulder before, go get one at the store now. I'm telling you this is one of the easiest if not the easiest thing to make and your husband and any guests you have over will be kissing your feet after taking a bite of this bad boy. You can just grin and revel in the joy and success of knowing that you did basically nothing to get this love from all.
You can either cook it in a crock pot or the oven. The crock pot is good if you aren't going to be home through the cooking (I personally don't like leaving the oven on when I am not at home but will leave the crock pot? Probably doesn't matter just one of my things..) Another thing is that my crock pot although big sometimes doesn't hold the huge pork shoulder plus the crock pot cooks much slower so if you are limited on time, go with the oven. Either way, I rub the entire shoulder generously with salt and pepper occasionally I add a little paprika but that's it. If you want you can take a skillet and brown all sides, that helps hold the flavor in and makes the outside crispy. I don't always do this because well, it is still really freaking good anyway and sometimes I don't feel like it :) If you are using the crock pot just toss that baby in and turn on high. You will need at least 6 or 7 hours. I like to turn on high and then check it after 5 hours, you can always turn it down if it is near done. For the oven I use a big roasting pan with a rack on the bottom, make sure the shoulder is covered completely, either with a sealed lid or aluminum foil. I use aluminum foil almost always. Put it in the oven on 300 if you have plenty of time. if you don't have plenty of time turn it up to 350 or 400. You can gook about an 8 lb shoulder at 400 in about 3 hours. You can also turn the temp up in the oven to 400 or 425 and crisp the top, I usually do this at the end. Your shoulder is done when you can stick a fork in it and the meat literally falls apart. The outside will naturally be more dry than the inside, so don't worry that just means the inside will be just right. Plus there is more inside than out! Now you can add BBQ sauce and make sandwiches or just eat that bad boy plain, such goodness! Later if there are leftovers you can put on a tortilla and make a little pork taco too, yum!
Cubed Sweet Potatoes
I peel and cut the potatoes. When cutting try to make sure to cut the potatoes all about the same size, so they will cook at the same rate. Then I just get a cookie sheet, dump all the pots in, drizzle with olive oil ans sprinkle with salt pepper and the garlic Mrs Dash. Bake on 350 for 15 minutes, take out stir around and bake for another 15 or until a fork slides easily in.
Happy Super Bowl!!
Friday, February 4, 2011
Eat, Eat, Eat, Ham & Beans with Cornbread + Peanut Butter Bread Recipes
So basically it has been really cold here this week. I'm not talking about a little cold or below freezing, I am talking about Antarctica cold, like -25. Yep, I turned on the weather channel Wednesday morning to -25 current temp. Definitely didn't feel like going outside even if it was to get in the car, which by the way my car battery and the hubs truck battery were dead from the beyond freezing temps. So what else to do when you are stuck in the warm house beside cook, bake and of course EAT. Needless to say this week hasn't been good for my diet. Oh well at least I stayed warm, right?
Ham & Beans with Cornbread
I had a leftover ham still on the bone that I froze at Christmas. You know it was just the chunk of ham that you probably throw out because that is the chunk that they didn't slice for you... So I put the ham with bone still intact in a big pot of water (cover it completely or as much as you can), boil for an hour or two or until the ham easily comes off the bone.
Next I transfer about half of the water to another pan and dump the rest. You could definitely save the broth but I didn't this time.
Remove the ham from the bone and dice or shred, I kinda prefer it shredded. Discard fat and bone.
In the big pot I add a couple tbsp of olive oil, diced garlic and onion and saute until the onion and garlic are opaque. Add the ham and beans, cook about 10 minutes on medium heat. Add the broth, add as much as you like (soupier add more, chunkier add less)Bring to a boil, them reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes. Yum!! but don't forget the cornbread!
Ham & Beans with Cornbread
I had a leftover ham still on the bone that I froze at Christmas. You know it was just the chunk of ham that you probably throw out because that is the chunk that they didn't slice for you... So I put the ham with bone still intact in a big pot of water (cover it completely or as much as you can), boil for an hour or two or until the ham easily comes off the bone.
Next I transfer about half of the water to another pan and dump the rest. You could definitely save the broth but I didn't this time.
Remove the ham from the bone and dice or shred, I kinda prefer it shredded. Discard fat and bone.
In the big pot I add a couple tbsp of olive oil, diced garlic and onion and saute until the onion and garlic are opaque. Add the ham and beans, cook about 10 minutes on medium heat. Add the broth, add as much as you like (soupier add more, chunkier add less)Bring to a boil, them reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes. Yum!! but don't forget the cornbread!
Cornbread
Okay, so I didn't do anything special here except follow a recipe and add jalapeno. I use the recipe on the back of the cornmeal container, shhh don't tell anyone.... then added diced jalapenos. If I was going to make it again I would definitely use buttermilk instead of regular milk although it was still delicious anyway. I like to just crumble the cornbread into my bowl. Seriously, so freaking good.
Are you ready for this super hard recipe? Seriously even with a 3 year old helping it took about 5 minutes or less.
Peanut Butter Bread
The best thing about this recipe is that I can pretty much bet that you have all the ingredients in your pantry right now.
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/3 cup sugar
4 tsp baking powder
1 1/2 cup milk (I used 1%)
1/2 cup chunky peanut butter (I am sure creamy would be just as good minus the crunch!)
Preheat oven to 350. Spray bread pan with cooking spray. Combine flour, sugar & baking powder. Add milk and peanut butter. Pour in loaf pan and bake for 35 minutes.
Top with jelly, jam, honey or just eat it plain. So good!!
So get to cookin' and Have a Great Weekend!!
Never Give Up On Something You Can't Go A Day Without Thinking About.....
Thursday, February 3, 2011
My Big Girl
My big cutie is in dance class once a week. I will have to say that every Monday morning it brings a smile and typically a big laugh to my day. It starts the week off in the right direction...minus the whirlwind it takes to get there.
It is still freezing here, okay well BELOW FREEZING. It is currently -5. I think I will just put on my string bikini, close my eyes and dream of the beach...okay minus the string bikini add the Mama style tankini.
Crazy pic of the little girl next to my big cutie..huh?
When far away we are all little dots but when up close we are shining stars!
I got this from this adorable etsy shop, just.lovely.things via one of my favortie blogs, Little miss Momma. If you haven't had a dose of LMM before, you should definitely check her out....now.
It is still freezing here, okay well BELOW FREEZING. It is currently -5. I think I will just put on my string bikini, close my eyes and dream of the beach...okay minus the string bikini add the Mama style tankini.
Wednesday, February 2, 2011
Tips on Creating Your Own Biz
I have people ask me often, how do you...... regarding having your own business. So I wanted to start writing tips on having your own biz-nass. You know I don't know everything but I have learn a lot mostly through trial and error. If I can save anyone a little time, I will gladly tell you what I have learned or wish that someone told me because if you are like me your time is limited.
So first off, if you want to start an e-commerce website. As most of you know I have had several websites. The NEW site is definitely the best so far, I really like it and really like the features. It is also very easy to use on my end and on the consumer end too.
So my current site is powered by Merchant Moms (the host). This is the brains of the site, the insides, this is where I add all my info, products, registry, etc.. The other inside, the shopping cart, the money, etc.. is powered by Mal's. This is where you set up how people will checkout as well as gift certificates, discount codes, etc.. Currently my payment method is Paypal. I just link my Paypal account to Mal's shopping cart. You can get another company to just process your credit cards, I don't currently have that 1. because it is really expensive 2. because I am not doing a lot of business outside of my website right now and don't need to process cards separately but if you plan to do shows or fairs and need to type credit card #'s in you will want to get a credit card processor. I have used quickbooks in the past. They do a credit check for this so if you don't have good credit, be aware.
Next for the design, the outside the style of your site, you can google website templates. There are hundreds, many are free. I got mine from Boutique Mama, it is very affordable. The prices range from free to several hundred $$. Once you buy it the designer or company you buy it from will install it for you. So you will go to your control panel (mine through Merchant Moms) and add your products, check out your site and viola, it is all pretty and perfect!
I think one of the biggest misconceptions is that if you pay someone loads of money (starting at about $7,000, when I checked into it) to make you a custom site, you are getting the same thing that you can buy from a template website designer. Even if you pay someone loads of $$$ you still have to take all your own pics, add all your own products and do all the inside of your site yourself. If you pay someone loads of $$, you will still have to pay a monthly or yearly fee for someone to power/host your site. They only give you the design, the outside. Another company that does hosting and has designs is Pappa Shop (I almost used them but liked the features of Merchant Moms better).
So now with using Merchant Mom's, Mal's & Paypal, I have a very affordablele yet professional website.
So if you haven't already checked out my fabulous new website, check it out NOW. You can use code site20 for 20% off EVERYTHING!!
Feel free to comment with your questions, I will make sure to answer them to the best of my knowledge. OR if you have any good tip, share them!!
Do you have your own blog? Well I finally figured out how to make a button!! Check it out! Feel free to post the code on your blog. If you do, let me know and I will reciprocate! Thanks in advance!
So first off, if you want to start an e-commerce website. As most of you know I have had several websites. The NEW site is definitely the best so far, I really like it and really like the features. It is also very easy to use on my end and on the consumer end too.
So my current site is powered by Merchant Moms (the host). This is the brains of the site, the insides, this is where I add all my info, products, registry, etc.. The other inside, the shopping cart, the money, etc.. is powered by Mal's. This is where you set up how people will checkout as well as gift certificates, discount codes, etc.. Currently my payment method is Paypal. I just link my Paypal account to Mal's shopping cart. You can get another company to just process your credit cards, I don't currently have that 1. because it is really expensive 2. because I am not doing a lot of business outside of my website right now and don't need to process cards separately but if you plan to do shows or fairs and need to type credit card #'s in you will want to get a credit card processor. I have used quickbooks in the past. They do a credit check for this so if you don't have good credit, be aware.
Next for the design, the outside the style of your site, you can google website templates. There are hundreds, many are free. I got mine from Boutique Mama, it is very affordable. The prices range from free to several hundred $$. Once you buy it the designer or company you buy it from will install it for you. So you will go to your control panel (mine through Merchant Moms) and add your products, check out your site and viola, it is all pretty and perfect!
I think one of the biggest misconceptions is that if you pay someone loads of money (starting at about $7,000, when I checked into it) to make you a custom site, you are getting the same thing that you can buy from a template website designer. Even if you pay someone loads of $$$ you still have to take all your own pics, add all your own products and do all the inside of your site yourself. If you pay someone loads of $$, you will still have to pay a monthly or yearly fee for someone to power/host your site. They only give you the design, the outside. Another company that does hosting and has designs is Pappa Shop (I almost used them but liked the features of Merchant Moms better).
So now with using Merchant Mom's, Mal's & Paypal, I have a very affordablele yet professional website.
So if you haven't already checked out my fabulous new website, check it out NOW. You can use code site20 for 20% off EVERYTHING!!
Feel free to comment with your questions, I will make sure to answer them to the best of my knowledge. OR if you have any good tip, share them!!
Do you have your own blog? Well I finally figured out how to make a button!! Check it out! Feel free to post the code on your blog. If you do, let me know and I will reciprocate! Thanks in advance!
The code is up there in the right hand corner....
Monday, January 31, 2011
Silhouette Fun
So this weekend I finally got the chance to sit down and begin to figure out my new BFF, my Silhouette. I will have to say that their instructions aren't great. They just don't give good details on how to get started and get the paper lined up to cut. After a few waisted pages and a little frustration, I figured it out. Many I should have started with something a little more basic but..well...I just can't do that. That would be easy and well I'm not easy...no pun intended :0
As you can see the shirt on Emme really isn't very good. It was my first try. Alea is wearing her owl shirt today and it is cracking. I have yet to find a heat transfer that doesn't crack :(
Anyhoo, I love my Silhouette and they are offering 20% off until the 3rd (code is on their home page). I can't wait to get used to it and start cranking out loads of fun creations! I really want to make a subway art something.....
Smile! You never know who is falling for you!
As you can see the shirt on Emme really isn't very good. It was my first try. Alea is wearing her owl shirt today and it is cracking. I have yet to find a heat transfer that doesn't crack :(
Anyhoo, I love my Silhouette and they are offering 20% off until the 3rd (code is on their home page). I can't wait to get used to it and start cranking out loads of fun creations! I really want to make a subway art something.....
Smile! You never know who is falling for you!
Saturday, January 29, 2011
Very Cute & Fun Craft
We are heading out the watch the X Games today but I wanted to share a super cute and quick craft. I found saw these earrings on one of the blogs I read, Sutton Grace. I just had to have those rose cabochons. So I looked up the seller Pretty Lovelies on etsy and had at it. Bought a bunch of different things. Here are the rings I made.
Love them. I made earrings & bobby pins too. I got tons of compliments plus several friends wanted to buy some for presents. I sold them super cheap but still made a few bucks.
{EDIT} I use E600 glue to adhere the flowers. It helps to file the metal first. You can get the glue in the craft section at Wally-world.
For the rings or earrings themselves I would just search etsy. I bought from 3 different people. Bunny Sundries is good too.
Have a fabulous day!
Love them. I made earrings & bobby pins too. I got tons of compliments plus several friends wanted to buy some for presents. I sold them super cheap but still made a few bucks.
{EDIT} I use E600 glue to adhere the flowers. It helps to file the metal first. You can get the glue in the craft section at Wally-world.
For the rings or earrings themselves I would just search etsy. I bought from 3 different people. Bunny Sundries is good too.
Have a fabulous day!
Thursday, January 27, 2011
New Website + Giveaway
I can't tell you how excited I am about the new site especially the new features! Baby registry, buy gift certificates online, very user friendly. If you haven't check it out already. You must check it out NOW.
Since I am a little off my rocker this week with all the fun that is happening I am offering the best deal in town with all orders! No minimum order, any order, any size, until this Sunday, January 30, 2011, I am giving away a FREE $25 gift certificate!
Can you tell I am excited??
Wait there is more...
You can't launch a website without out a giveaway, right?
So I am giving away your favorite item from our newest collection, Late Winter 2011.
Pretty cute, huh?
How can you win?
Here are the details....
Go to our website and sign up for our newsletter. It is available on several pages, find it and add your email address. Now you are entered. If you are already signed up for our newsletter, just let us know.
Want to increase your chances?
For another entry...
If you don't follow your favorite blog yet, Follow The Life of Bebe Dulce! See that little follow button down there on the right? Click it! Perfect, now you have another entry!
More entries...
*Like us on Facebook.
*Go to our website and leave us a comment on the contact page.
Now you just need to tell us what you did. Leave us a comment here, or a comment on Facebook, or a comment on our website and let us know that you want to WIN and what you did to enter.
Now just cross your fingers.
Contest ends Sunday, January 30, 2011.
Since I am a little off my rocker this week with all the fun that is happening I am offering the best deal in town with all orders! No minimum order, any order, any size, until this Sunday, January 30, 2011, I am giving away a FREE $25 gift certificate!
Can you tell I am excited??
Wait there is more...
You can't launch a website without out a giveaway, right?
So I am giving away your favorite item from our newest collection, Late Winter 2011.
How can you win?
Here are the details....
Go to our website and sign up for our newsletter. It is available on several pages, find it and add your email address. Now you are entered. If you are already signed up for our newsletter, just let us know.
Want to increase your chances?
For another entry...
If you don't follow your favorite blog yet, Follow The Life of Bebe Dulce! See that little follow button down there on the right? Click it! Perfect, now you have another entry!
More entries...
*Like us on Facebook.
*Go to our website and leave us a comment on the contact page.
Now you just need to tell us what you did. Leave us a comment here, or a comment on Facebook, or a comment on our website and let us know that you want to WIN and what you did to enter.
Now just cross your fingers.
Contest ends Sunday, January 30, 2011.
Tuesday, January 25, 2011
My Mom is the best, seriously...
You remember a couple of weeks ago I posted this and I talked about these cool things that I wanted. Well today imagine my excitement when I opened my front door to this!
It wasn't a total surprise although it was a "surprise". After she read my post she said that she thought she should get me a Silhouette.... for Mother's Day. An early Mother's Day present from the best Mom EVER. I can't even tell you how excited I am to get to know this bad boy. Unfortunately, neither one of my darling kids decided to nap this afternoon so I guess my date with my new bad boy will have to be post-poned. But until then I will just be happy and grateful that I have the best Mom EVER.
If you have never seen this amazing machine, check out their website.
Friday, January 21, 2011
Challenge #7
Okay, since I have skipped the challenge for about a month now! Total slacker, I know!! Ha-ha. I am now going to just number them instead of using weeks, just in case I need to skip again. Not that I am planning to but just in case...you know to cover my a*s...
Frame It Friday..has a nice little ring to it, huh? So I had several picture frame ideas that I brought to life both were simple, simple, simple.
I made 7 of them and I will have to say, I love them! Love seeing her artwork!
Next, I have this piece of art (my Aunt's) via my grandmother. I love this piece. As you can see the frame is mostly gold. Clearly it was framed many a years ago. So bust out my black craft paint from Wally-world and here you go.
Frame It Friday..has a nice little ring to it, huh? So I had several picture frame ideas that I brought to life both were simple, simple, simple.
First, I really needed to decorate the girls room. The walls were pretty bare and if you remember my post last week regarding the wall colors in our home, well I will refresh your memory, they are all off-white. Sooo in my office I had a stash of basic black picture frames that I had bought on clearance at Bed, Bath & Beyond. They sell them in sets of 4, I had bought them a couple of years ago as I made a wall collage of pictures. I had several left and sitting not too far was an enormous stack of Alea's art work. I also had paint that I bought (craft paint from Wal-mart) when I was decorating Alea's nursery. So I just slapped a couple of coats of paint over the black frames, inserted fabulous 3 year old daughter's art work and Viola!
I made 7 of them and I will have to say, I love them! Love seeing her artwork!
Next, I have this piece of art (my Aunt's) via my grandmother. I love this piece. As you can see the frame is mostly gold. Clearly it was framed many a years ago. So bust out my black craft paint from Wally-world and here you go.
Happy Friday! I have a newborn photo session next week and this week I happened to be reading one of my favorite blogs The Pioneer Woman and one of her guest's posted about this incredible photographer. I can't wait to get my lens in front of that baby next week now. I will definitely be drawing a little inspiration from Kerrianne Brown. Can you say AMAZING? Love her style!
Thursday, January 20, 2011
I'm a Mom!
You know my 3 year old is constantly "Mommy, Momma, Mom." telling me everything that possibly comes into her mind. We go through life and everything happens so fast. Then out of the millions of times Alea says "Mom", I stopped and think, "Holy Sh*t, I can't believe I am a Mom." I am finally here. I am one of those girls that always wanted to be a Mom. I mean I probably "played" house until I was way too old. I couldn't wait to be a Mom. And now I am here, I'm a Mom, exactly what I want to be.
What is even funnier is that today was a really hard day. They just wore me out, Alea was relentless. Now they are finally in bed maybe it's just that I am enjoying the quiet just a little too much.
What is even funnier is that today was a really hard day. They just wore me out, Alea was relentless. Now they are finally in bed maybe it's just that I am enjoying the quiet just a little too much.
They make me smile.
Monday, January 17, 2011
Super Mommy Tip #8
Super Mommy Tip #8, Only Do What You Can Handle Part 3:
I think every Mom dreads doing laundry. I mean it piles up before we ever get to the bottom of it, it never stops, never a day (or hour for that matter) goes by that you are tossing something in the basket. Quite frankly I am lucky if I finish a whole load in one day from start to finish. I always tell myself that I will get better about it and not let it stay in the dryer for a day or two but I am still waiting for myself to listen. Anyway, I have decided since laundry is never ending, that I can only handle 2 loads at a time. Yep only 2! Anymore and well I get buried, overwhelmed and nearly depressed. Choose how many loads you can do at a time in order not to get buried beneath the never ending pile. If that means picking out your favorite things, then do it and don't do ANYMORE that what YOU can handle! Don't overwhelm yourself by dirty laundry.
PS. One of the best decisions I ever made (and this was before I had kids) was for my hubs to do his own laundry. When we first moved in together I took over all the laundry, folding, putting away all his clothes, being the perfect little house-girlfriend. Well it took me about a month before I realized that...well that he can do his own laundry. 6 years later he still does his own and I am still patting myself on the back for the great decision. So sorry husbands but ladies, try it! I promise this is not one that you will regret.
I think every Mom dreads doing laundry. I mean it piles up before we ever get to the bottom of it, it never stops, never a day (or hour for that matter) goes by that you are tossing something in the basket. Quite frankly I am lucky if I finish a whole load in one day from start to finish. I always tell myself that I will get better about it and not let it stay in the dryer for a day or two but I am still waiting for myself to listen. Anyway, I have decided since laundry is never ending, that I can only handle 2 loads at a time. Yep only 2! Anymore and well I get buried, overwhelmed and nearly depressed. Choose how many loads you can do at a time in order not to get buried beneath the never ending pile. If that means picking out your favorite things, then do it and don't do ANYMORE that what YOU can handle! Don't overwhelm yourself by dirty laundry.
PS. One of the best decisions I ever made (and this was before I had kids) was for my hubs to do his own laundry. When we first moved in together I took over all the laundry, folding, putting away all his clothes, being the perfect little house-girlfriend. Well it took me about a month before I realized that...well that he can do his own laundry. 6 years later he still does his own and I am still patting myself on the back for the great decision. So sorry husbands but ladies, try it! I promise this is not one that you will regret.
Thursday, January 13, 2011
The Golden Rule
I am sure everyone remembers "The Golden Rule", "Treat others as you want to be treated". I am sure many of you remember your parents telling you this and I do as well. Like many of the other things our parents told us over and over, we quickly forget these very important , yet simple phrases that were etched in our brains growing up.
We all are very aware of the tragedy in Tucson this past weekend. In the past few years it seems as though similar tragedy's are becoming all too common. It is beyond sad, beyond senseless. beyond disturbing that people have so much hate inside them that they want to hurt someone else. Most of the time it is people they don't know and have never met before.
Why do people have so much hate? Regardless of who you voted for President, we all got Obama. Whether you like him or not, HE IS OUR PRESIDENT. He is in charge of our country. There is nothing anyone can do to change that until the next election, so why can't we remove the hate from our minds and our hearts and work with what we have. Remember this little phrase "united we stand, divided we fall" (translation: divided we fail). Right now as a country we are failing, we are failing each other, to many are showing more and more hate. As individuals, as family members as friends, as a country we must learn to tolerate each others differences and unite as one.
Personally I try to teach my kids everyday to love everyone. Life is too short, there is no room for hate in our hearts or our minds. When we show LOVE, we spread LOVE, we receive LOVE. Obviously, therefore when we show hate, we spread hate and we receive hate in return.
If you want to make a difference and feel that the world is too big for little ol' you to make a difference, start right now, start with the person sitting next to you, with the next person you come in contact with; show them love. Love is contagious. The world is big and the problems are even bigger but change must start somewhere. Why not let it start with you, right now, this minute, this second. The hate has grown and continues to grow. We CAN stop the hate. Start NOW. Show others LOVE, compassion, caring.... embrace each others differences and learn to work together, open your mind and listen to others; treat them as you want to be treated. What we put out into the world is what we will get back. Personally I want love back. If you aren't feeling loved, show more love to others, I promise it will come back to you.
Unfortunately I did not get to see Obama's speech last night but I did look it up and read it. I think there are things he said that are extremely important if we would like to live in a more loving world.
"We may not be able to stop all evil in the world, but I know that how we treat one another is entirely up to us."
"At a time when our discourse has become so sharply polarized — at a time when we are far too eager to lay the blame for all that ails the world at the feet of those who think differently than we do — it's important for us to pause for a moment and make sure that we are talking with each other in a way that heals, not a way that wounds," the president said.
He spoke of decency and goodness, declaring: "The forces that divide us are not as strong as those that unite us."
Make your mind up today that YOU want our country to change. You want our country to stop the hate. Start right now, this moment and start showing more love to each other especially when people are showing you hate..
"Love one another."
This post is in no way meant to be political. I do not voice my political views on this blog. I am not claiming to be for or against either political party.
We all are very aware of the tragedy in Tucson this past weekend. In the past few years it seems as though similar tragedy's are becoming all too common. It is beyond sad, beyond senseless. beyond disturbing that people have so much hate inside them that they want to hurt someone else. Most of the time it is people they don't know and have never met before.
Why do people have so much hate? Regardless of who you voted for President, we all got Obama. Whether you like him or not, HE IS OUR PRESIDENT. He is in charge of our country. There is nothing anyone can do to change that until the next election, so why can't we remove the hate from our minds and our hearts and work with what we have. Remember this little phrase "united we stand, divided we fall" (translation: divided we fail). Right now as a country we are failing, we are failing each other, to many are showing more and more hate. As individuals, as family members as friends, as a country we must learn to tolerate each others differences and unite as one.
Personally I try to teach my kids everyday to love everyone. Life is too short, there is no room for hate in our hearts or our minds. When we show LOVE, we spread LOVE, we receive LOVE. Obviously, therefore when we show hate, we spread hate and we receive hate in return.
If you want to make a difference and feel that the world is too big for little ol' you to make a difference, start right now, start with the person sitting next to you, with the next person you come in contact with; show them love. Love is contagious. The world is big and the problems are even bigger but change must start somewhere. Why not let it start with you, right now, this minute, this second. The hate has grown and continues to grow. We CAN stop the hate. Start NOW. Show others LOVE, compassion, caring.... embrace each others differences and learn to work together, open your mind and listen to others; treat them as you want to be treated. What we put out into the world is what we will get back. Personally I want love back. If you aren't feeling loved, show more love to others, I promise it will come back to you.
Unfortunately I did not get to see Obama's speech last night but I did look it up and read it. I think there are things he said that are extremely important if we would like to live in a more loving world.
"We may not be able to stop all evil in the world, but I know that how we treat one another is entirely up to us."
"At a time when our discourse has become so sharply polarized — at a time when we are far too eager to lay the blame for all that ails the world at the feet of those who think differently than we do — it's important for us to pause for a moment and make sure that we are talking with each other in a way that heals, not a way that wounds," the president said.
He spoke of decency and goodness, declaring: "The forces that divide us are not as strong as those that unite us."
Make your mind up today that YOU want our country to change. You want our country to stop the hate. Start right now, this moment and start showing more love to each other especially when people are showing you hate..
"Love one another."
This post is in no way meant to be political. I do not voice my political views on this blog. I am not claiming to be for or against either political party.
Wednesday, January 12, 2011
Blah, Blah, Blah
I am in need of a little motivation these days. Most people start off the New Year with a bang but I am different if you haven't noticed. Since I have had my own business and I am busy throughout December, January seems to be my laziest month.
I
MUST
GET
MOTIVATED
AGAIN
SOON
......................
Okay I just called my hubber and informed him that I will be painting our bedroom sky blue (that color just came out of the top of my head but blue is a definite possibility). The funny thing about this is that the 2 homes that we have owned together, every wall has been painted off-white. Why, you might ask? Well we can't agree on paint colors. So imagine his dismay. His response, "that is a waste of money". Ha. Ha. Why is his response funny you might ask? My husband is not money conscious and NEVER tells me not to spend money. I manage our finances, therefore I am the one saying not to buy this or that. If I ever ask him if I should buy something, he ALWAYS says yes. Maybe I will pleasantly surprise him with a new bedroom color here soon :)
Then I told him I also want to frame out our bathroom mirror. Like this. http://showandtell-sausha.blogspot.com/2010/05/framed-mirror-tutorial.html
He then asked me if I thought I was Martha Stewart. I told him he could call me Martha if he wanted to.....
I will keep you updated on my progress.
Don't hold your breath.
On a side note. I believe in angels.
I am not sure why but those simple 4 words (which I totally believe) have been in my head all day, you know like a song that is stuck in your head.
I believe in angels.
I
MUST
GET
MOTIVATED
AGAIN
SOON
......................
Okay I just called my hubber and informed him that I will be painting our bedroom sky blue (that color just came out of the top of my head but blue is a definite possibility). The funny thing about this is that the 2 homes that we have owned together, every wall has been painted off-white. Why, you might ask? Well we can't agree on paint colors. So imagine his dismay. His response, "that is a waste of money". Ha. Ha. Why is his response funny you might ask? My husband is not money conscious and NEVER tells me not to spend money. I manage our finances, therefore I am the one saying not to buy this or that. If I ever ask him if I should buy something, he ALWAYS says yes. Maybe I will pleasantly surprise him with a new bedroom color here soon :)
Then I told him I also want to frame out our bathroom mirror. Like this. http://showandtell-sausha.blogspot.com/2010/05/framed-mirror-tutorial.html
He then asked me if I thought I was Martha Stewart. I told him he could call me Martha if he wanted to.....
I will keep you updated on my progress.
Don't hold your breath.
On a side note. I believe in angels.
I am not sure why but those simple 4 words (which I totally believe) have been in my head all day, you know like a song that is stuck in your head.
I believe in angels.
Tuesday, January 11, 2011
Dream a Little Dream
In case you were wanting to buy me a fabulous gift for the New Year, I thought I would give you a few ideas. He-he just kidding (sort of :) I just thought I would share these amazing items that are on my want list, you can slap me later for making you want them too.
Can you believe this lady made this? Awesome! I might have to get the hub-ster on this for Alea's birthday or Christmas.
http://suttongrace.blogspot.com/2011/01/mod-doll-house-plans.html
I REALLY, REALLY want this. I know that once (yes I said once) I get it, I won't know how I ever lived without it. http://www.silhouetteamerica.com/whatcanitdo.aspx I am just waiting for one of those days when I need to buy something fabulous to make myself feel better because the Silhouette will do just that.
Not that I quit but think how fast you can cut out cute little flowers, circles and anything else my heart desires. There is a smaller, less expensive portable version but since I am wishing/dreaming, might as well dream big right? http://www.accuquilt.com/Studio-Cutter-C457.aspx
Out of all these this is probably what I will get/make first, although I have until the end of March for the babes bday. I must have it done by then. http://www.howdoesshe.com/birthday-wreath
Or maybe I will make this next for my bed. The only thing is that I want them to be REALLY big. One, because I saw a pic in a magazine years ago from a Nate Berkus ad and they were amazing. I couldn't find them for sale anywhere. Two because our bed is gi-normous so they need to be REALLY big to make them look good. The only issue is that I don't know if I can find sweaters that are big enough to make them out of. No big and tall stores around these parts. So that leaves me to knit them myself which takes the project to a whole other level. I do know how to knit although it has been a few years, oh yea 3 years ago to be exact before my first bambina was born and I had a few extra minutes during the day. Wow that was a long explanation, oops. http://brassyapple.blogspot.com/2011/01/diy-sweater-pillows-cozy-up.html
And this! http://www.u-createcrafts.com/2010/03/creative-guest-remodelaholic-pottery.html I likey.
Can't forget this. Expect to see a new design this summer with this amazing fabric. LOVE http://www.rufflefabric.com/ Which one, which one to choose.
Okay, last one I promise. I pretty much LOVE (no pun intended :) everything from this shop but this is my favorite. http://www.etsy.com/listing/39947047/unique-love-sign-because-everyone-could
Just giving you a little glimpse of what I am dreaming of today....
What fabulous things are you dreaming of??
Dreams come a size too big so we can grow into them. -Unknown
Can you believe this lady made this? Awesome! I might have to get the hub-ster on this for Alea's birthday or Christmas.
http://suttongrace.blogspot.com/2011/01/mod-doll-house-plans.html
I REALLY, REALLY want this. I know that once (yes I said once) I get it, I won't know how I ever lived without it. http://www.silhouetteamerica.com/whatcanitdo.aspx I am just waiting for one of those days when I need to buy something fabulous to make myself feel better because the Silhouette will do just that.
Not that I quit but think how fast you can cut out cute little flowers, circles and anything else my heart desires. There is a smaller, less expensive portable version but since I am wishing/dreaming, might as well dream big right? http://www.accuquilt.com/Studio-Cutter-C457.aspx
Out of all these this is probably what I will get/make first, although I have until the end of March for the babes bday. I must have it done by then. http://www.howdoesshe.com/birthday-wreath
Or maybe I will make this next for my bed. The only thing is that I want them to be REALLY big. One, because I saw a pic in a magazine years ago from a Nate Berkus ad and they were amazing. I couldn't find them for sale anywhere. Two because our bed is gi-normous so they need to be REALLY big to make them look good. The only issue is that I don't know if I can find sweaters that are big enough to make them out of. No big and tall stores around these parts. So that leaves me to knit them myself which takes the project to a whole other level. I do know how to knit although it has been a few years, oh yea 3 years ago to be exact before my first bambina was born and I had a few extra minutes during the day. Wow that was a long explanation, oops. http://brassyapple.blogspot.com/2011/01/diy-sweater-pillows-cozy-up.html
And this! http://www.u-createcrafts.com/2010/03/creative-guest-remodelaholic-pottery.html I likey.
Can't forget this. Expect to see a new design this summer with this amazing fabric. LOVE http://www.rufflefabric.com/ Which one, which one to choose.
Okay, last one I promise. I pretty much LOVE (no pun intended :) everything from this shop but this is my favorite. http://www.etsy.com/listing/39947047/unique-love-sign-because-everyone-could
Just giving you a little glimpse of what I am dreaming of today....
What fabulous things are you dreaming of??
Dreams come a size too big so we can grow into them. -Unknown
Monday, January 10, 2011
Super Mommy Tip #8
Do your own salon manicure & pedicure. For most of us Mom's the days of heading to the salon every week or two to have someone else massage, rub and paint our hands and feet are just a distant memory. Time just isn't on our side to pamper ourselves as we once did. So if you are anything like me, well hopefully not because I am a little obsessed with having perfectly filed and painted nails, and want salon-looking nails here are my tips for doing your own salon mani - pedi.
1. Get salon grade polish. Every salon sells polish. My favorites are OPI & Esse. Personally on my hands I like a pale color, madamoiselle (Esse) and privacy please (OPI). I like pale colors on my hands because if I do mess up a little you can't really tell. For my feet I get brave and use a variety of colors because they are a little easier to do.
2. You will also want to get a base coat polish and a top coat polish (they do make these combined). These you can get from the drug store. For the top coat make sure you get one that is shine or extra shine.
3. You need either toothpicks (beak the point off) or bobby pins. You will use these to get the excess polish off your cuticles.
4. All optional: pumice stone, foot bath, salt scrub. If you have time, I typically do the scrubbing when I am in the bath. Or just ask your husband, I am sure he will be happy to rub your feet :) ha-ha
Okay, to get started, file your nails and trim your cuticles. If you don't have the tools, invest in them from you local drug store. They are cheap. I like clippers, a cuticle trimmer and a file. Once you finish that, you will start at the center of the nail and work your way out with the polish. You want an even, light coat. You will do 2 coats, so be sure not do it too thick. After you paint each nail, take your toothpick or bobby pin and run it along your cuticle to grab any excess polish.
For my hands, I sometimes only use one coat of polish but for the feet I always use 2 coats. I also like to make sure the polish is completely dry before I put the top shine coat on. Voila! Only you will know that you didn't spend hours at the salon getting those fabulous nails, something us Mom's only dream about these days!
Remember practice makes perfect!
1. Get salon grade polish. Every salon sells polish. My favorites are OPI & Esse. Personally on my hands I like a pale color, madamoiselle (Esse) and privacy please (OPI). I like pale colors on my hands because if I do mess up a little you can't really tell. For my feet I get brave and use a variety of colors because they are a little easier to do.
2. You will also want to get a base coat polish and a top coat polish (they do make these combined). These you can get from the drug store. For the top coat make sure you get one that is shine or extra shine.
3. You need either toothpicks (beak the point off) or bobby pins. You will use these to get the excess polish off your cuticles.
4. All optional: pumice stone, foot bath, salt scrub. If you have time, I typically do the scrubbing when I am in the bath. Or just ask your husband, I am sure he will be happy to rub your feet :) ha-ha
Okay, to get started, file your nails and trim your cuticles. If you don't have the tools, invest in them from you local drug store. They are cheap. I like clippers, a cuticle trimmer and a file. Once you finish that, you will start at the center of the nail and work your way out with the polish. You want an even, light coat. You will do 2 coats, so be sure not do it too thick. After you paint each nail, take your toothpick or bobby pin and run it along your cuticle to grab any excess polish.
For my hands, I sometimes only use one coat of polish but for the feet I always use 2 coats. I also like to make sure the polish is completely dry before I put the top shine coat on. Voila! Only you will know that you didn't spend hours at the salon getting those fabulous nails, something us Mom's only dream about these days!
Remember practice makes perfect!
Thursday, January 6, 2011
Don't Sweat the Small Stuff
I try to tell myself this constantly. Probably every hour when I am at home with my kids, mainly when Alea has colored on, cut, or otherwise destroyed yet something else. I try to take a deep breath and think "is this really a BIG deal?" Yes I don't like what happened but is it really the worst thing that could happen? My answer is no, natta, nope, it clearly could be worse.
For those of you that don't live in a tiny little resort town that is bombarded by crazy tourists that don't have a clue how to drive in snow and ice, let me just tell you that these tourists can drive you crazy if you let them. They drive like they are in NYC, cutting people off, gunning it from light to light, definitely not stopping for pedestrians. During the "season" everytime I drive into town, I repeat to myself "is it really a big deal". Yet again my answer is "nope". If it is makes that person feel better to cut me off then so be it. It is clearly not the worst thing that could happen to me that day. Is it going to affect my life in the long run? No. Do I want it to turn my otherwise good day, bad? Definitely not. Maybe they are having a bad day and they need a little wiggle room. Fine.
The reason I am bringing this up is I see so often people get incredibly upset over the small stuff. Although I try and tell myself not to sweat it, sometimes I just do. I constantly try not to because if I do sweat it, well it changes my mood, my outlook and my outcomes. By outcome I mean that when you emit positive energy you receive positive energy. Therefore when you sweat the small stuff you are emitting negative energy and you got it...receiving negative back. Why would you want some dumb tourist or anyone for that matter to cause you to receive negative energy? Of course you don't. So just remember to let it go, blow it off, take a deep breath and don't sweat the small stuff.
Today I am attempting to make homemade rolls for hamburgers for dinner. I will let you know how it turns out. I haven't bought bread for myself since the beginning of November. I love making my own bread. If you missed my bread recipe post check it out. I got it from Weight Watchers! So it must be good for me, right? :)
"The best way to cheer yourself is to try to cheer someone else up."
— Mark Twain
For those of you that don't live in a tiny little resort town that is bombarded by crazy tourists that don't have a clue how to drive in snow and ice, let me just tell you that these tourists can drive you crazy if you let them. They drive like they are in NYC, cutting people off, gunning it from light to light, definitely not stopping for pedestrians. During the "season" everytime I drive into town, I repeat to myself "is it really a big deal". Yet again my answer is "nope". If it is makes that person feel better to cut me off then so be it. It is clearly not the worst thing that could happen to me that day. Is it going to affect my life in the long run? No. Do I want it to turn my otherwise good day, bad? Definitely not. Maybe they are having a bad day and they need a little wiggle room. Fine.
The reason I am bringing this up is I see so often people get incredibly upset over the small stuff. Although I try and tell myself not to sweat it, sometimes I just do. I constantly try not to because if I do sweat it, well it changes my mood, my outlook and my outcomes. By outcome I mean that when you emit positive energy you receive positive energy. Therefore when you sweat the small stuff you are emitting negative energy and you got it...receiving negative back. Why would you want some dumb tourist or anyone for that matter to cause you to receive negative energy? Of course you don't. So just remember to let it go, blow it off, take a deep breath and don't sweat the small stuff.
Today I am attempting to make homemade rolls for hamburgers for dinner. I will let you know how it turns out. I haven't bought bread for myself since the beginning of November. I love making my own bread. If you missed my bread recipe post check it out. I got it from Weight Watchers! So it must be good for me, right? :)
"The best way to cheer yourself is to try to cheer someone else up."
— Mark Twain
Tuesday, January 4, 2011
New Year, New Me
....well sort of.... Same me with a new look. Okay not really a new look for me but for my cyber me. You have probably heard me say before I like change. Change seems to brighten me up a bit and keep me on my toes. I guess you can see the first thing I changed was the look of fabulous Mr. Blog. What do ya think? Not too bad, huh? The second thing that will be changing is good ol' Mr. Website. You know since I stated my website 2 1/2 years ago I have never been super happy with the features and look. Hopefully that will change soon. I have been working on a new site on and off for about a month now. I am probably about half way done and hope to finish it up sometime this month. I will offer a registry, gift certificates and fun, new fabulous products, clothes to be exact. Beyond cute dresses, pants, shorts, shirts all in adorable fabric. I can't wait to show you. I actually have the new items that I am going to launch with the new website already finished, now I am just waiting to finish the site. Chop, chop Claire!!
As for a New Years resolution. I actually try all year to be a good person, happy, loving, caring. I don't really wait until the New Year do well, anything. Right now I am really trying to be more patient. I need patience. Having a 3 year old tests anything and everything I have in my body and mind. So I will say if I am going to choose a resolution it will be to take deep breaths and be patient. Ahhh I feel better already :)
Stay positive, think positive, be positive and you will receive positive outcomes.
As for a New Years resolution. I actually try all year to be a good person, happy, loving, caring. I don't really wait until the New Year do well, anything. Right now I am really trying to be more patient. I need patience. Having a 3 year old tests anything and everything I have in my body and mind. So I will say if I am going to choose a resolution it will be to take deep breaths and be patient. Ahhh I feel better already :)
Stay positive, think positive, be positive and you will receive positive outcomes.
Saturday, January 1, 2011
Don't Forget To Eat Your Luck This New Year
I like to make black eyed peas for New Years. I mean they are suppose to be good luck and I am all for any and all luck I can get. So I made black eyed peas with ham. I can't believe how good it was, black eyed peas aren't my favorite but this year I got it right. Plus it was super easy. So if you haven't had your black eyed peas yet, get started.
I sauteed garlic and onion with a little olive oil. Cut or tore ham into pieces. I probably had about 2 cups of ham. Add that to the pan. Dump in 3 cans of BEP's, do not drain the peas. Bring to boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes.
I also made corn bread with jalapenos. Beyond Yummy!
The other recipe I made was for a BEP dip! I found it on one of my favorite blogs, The Pioneer Woman. If you don't know about the Pioneer Woman, you must check her out. She rocks. I could go on and on about how much I like her but check out her blog and see for yourself. She is addicting. She has great recipes that never disappoint. Click here for the Black Eyed Pea Dip. So delicious.
Happy New Year. I hope this year brings everyone laughter, love and fun!
I sauteed garlic and onion with a little olive oil. Cut or tore ham into pieces. I probably had about 2 cups of ham. Add that to the pan. Dump in 3 cans of BEP's, do not drain the peas. Bring to boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes.
I also made corn bread with jalapenos. Beyond Yummy!
The other recipe I made was for a BEP dip! I found it on one of my favorite blogs, The Pioneer Woman. If you don't know about the Pioneer Woman, you must check her out. She rocks. I could go on and on about how much I like her but check out her blog and see for yourself. She is addicting. She has great recipes that never disappoint. Click here for the Black Eyed Pea Dip. So delicious.
Happy New Year. I hope this year brings everyone laughter, love and fun!
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