All Things Lovely...

{ My New Motto }

2012-01-27T10:07:00.000-08:00

This is my new motto for 2012.

It came about in one of our many mothering counseling sessions on my girls trip to Vegas.

And it really hit home to me.
As a mom I have constantly been plagued by guilt. Comparison to other mom's is a regular occurrence....not that I want it to be, but I don't know what I'm doing?! So it's only natural to look around and compare and gauge yourself. But it's not healthy, and usually doesn't help.

So these are the words I'm going to strive to live by. It's not an over night thing. I am constantly reminding myself multiple times a day. This little note is on my bathroom mirror....so I see it when I wake up and when I go to bed.

I'm no longer going to have days filled with guilt. If Mason watched cartoons for two hours instead of making a finger painting masterpiece so be it. If I didn't get to the laundry because we were playing catch for four hours instead. So be it.

If I need a babysitter so I can go to Target alone for two hours. So be it.
I'm learning to be honest and accepting of my feelings. The good, the bad, and the completely unnecessary. But they are my feelings and I don't need to feel guilty about having them.

I'm going to do whats best for me, what works for me and my family, and can make me the best mom that I can be. It may not be super mom....but that's ok. I will give only what I can everyday and call it a day. And try again harder (if I want to) the next day. If not, that's ok too because I gave what I could.

I have been feeling better after I heard this little piece of advice. My days have been happier, I have been happier......and that makes everyone happier.

So cheers to guilt free mothering.....I feel better just typing this.

{ Where Did You Get That? and A Pinterest Recreation Linky Party }

2012-01-24T21:25:00.000-08:00

I only have two outfits to post.

At least it's two.

One is what I wore to the airport....the other is a pinterest recreation.

So go me! I'm still a little tired from my trip and I just can't bring myself to get back into the swing of things.

Want to know what else is fun? We are going to see Brian Regan tonight. I can't wait...I love him.

Enough of this random business....

Outfit #1- Airport Style: COMFORT

scarf- gifted, sweater: H&M, leggings: Target, oxfords: Target, watch: Nordstrom

Hair tutorial go here

Outfit #2- Pinterest ReCreation- Hillary Duff

I used her pink shoes as inspiration for my jacket, instead of a black leather.

pink blazer: Marshall's, sweater: H&M, leather leggings: H&M, flats: Gap, necklace: Jennijewelry(Etsy)

Husband wanted to get in on the action as well. He sent me a text tonight at work with this pic and the places where his items of clothing were purchased. Ha! love him...isn't he super sexy...look at that outfit!

Shout out to him...he also took amazing care of Mason over the weekend...had so much fun, had the house clean when I came home, and he CLEANED OUT THE FRIDGE! WHAT?!!! Major brownie points...I can't stop staring at it..it's like a new fridge inside. Ok randomness again....back to Sam

Pants: Amazon (Levi brand), shirt: bestcustomshirt.com (p.s. custom shirts are the way to go MEN, they are fitted to their bodies, no baggy spots, they look tailored and nice, so classy), sweater: Nordstrom Rack, shoes: Nordstrom Rack ( Allen Edmond brand)

Now it's your turn to link up!

Party Rules:

1. Your link must be a recreation of something you found from Pinterest. It can be anything, decor, crafts, recipes, or outfits

2. Please post the original item from pinterest along with your recreation- or attempt ;)

3. Please link back here so your fab readers can know where to join our linky party! you can grab a button from my side bar

I'm linking up with:

Momma Go Round

The Pleated Poppy

Rolled Up Pretty

{ Girls Trip: Las Vegas }

2012-01-24T19:48:00.000-08:00

This trip came at the perfect time!

I honestly don't think I could have dreamed up a more perfect weekend. We ate and ate, and then got re-dressed to go and eat some more. We shopped till our feet hurt. We stayed out late, slept in, and did whatever our little hearts desired. Because we were free....we were 4 stay at home momma's on the loose in Vegas, minus kids, minus schedules, minus any cares.

It seriously was amazing. I wish I could put into words how much I needed this weekend and how cathartic and amazing it was.

Somehow my stars magically aligned and Sam didn't have school so he could watch the boy, I had three eager and willing friends to hop on a plane to Vegas, and I had cheap flights calling my name.

We flew in Friday afternoon and took a cab to the Vdara Hotel located in the City Center. It's a beautiful, totally modern and hip hotel located in the middle of the strip. The room was amazing, equipped with a kitchen (not that we needed it), a huge bathroom, and black out shades that went up and down with the push of a button. Hello HEAVEN.

After checking in we instantly hit the mall....shopping out little hearts out, with out children melting down in the middle of the a store. When we finally got back to the hotel with our bags of goodies. (did I say bags?!) we were able to relax for a bit and then we pulled out our list of restaurants we wanted to cram in, in our short 48 hours. Oh yes we had a list. We finally decided on one place and got ready to head out to dinner at 9:15 PM!
We ate at the most AMAZING buffet, if you can even call it a buffet at Wicked Spoon at the Cosmopolitan Hotel. It was gourmet and delicious and fresh. I highly highly recommend it.

Then after our BUFFET we decided to walk to Serendipity because a buffet just wasn't enough. One frozen hot chocolate and banana split later we were ready to call it a night.
It was also 1:30am....no big deal.

The next day was just as adventurous. After finally leaving the hotel room at 12 in the afternoon to go get breakfast ( Vdara has the most delicious market cafe in their hotel!) we decided to do a little more shopping. I was able to use my precious H&M gift cards at the glorious 3 story H&M in Cesar's. And don't worry I picked up a pair of leather leggings I have been dying for!

The rest of the night got interesting! Let's just say I haven't been to Vegas with out Sam in a VERY long time and I forget the club promoters that pop out of every bush trying to get you on various night club guest lists. We were starting to get a little annoyed of them by the end until one struck a chord with my girl Gay. He said the words "Wyclef" and her heart skipped a beat and she said..."we have to go".

So he put us on the guest list....and we thought maybe we will make it.

Whitney and Jessica went to Celine and had the best time ever while Gay and I ate more food. I told you this weekend involved a lot of food.
Then we met at Lavo Restaurant at the Plazzo hotel for our 10:15 dinner reservations. Yes 10:15! I'm so shocked and proud of ourselves I can't even tell you. No 7:00 dinners at the Cheesecake Factory here (that is a favorite of mine) Oh no we spread our wings, we ventured out, and we did Vegas RIGHT.

After a delicious dinner and very full bellies....we couldn't think of a better way to end our adventurous trip than to hit up The Bank night club at Bellagio and let our little Gay get her Wycleff fix, and let me fulfill my dream of actually going dancing at a club in Vegas.

Gay said it perfectly: "With our names on the list, we were in. Us 4 crazy moms, clothed head to toe, 2 of them pregnant, none of us drinking......somehow we were on the VIP list."

And it's true...we got in! I'm as shocked and amazed myself. As I was going up the escalator being chauffeured by our club escort I couldn't believe this was really happening! eeehehe.. We danced our little hearts out....avoiding eye contact with fellow club goers....we were married women and all. Best of all we just laughed and had so much fun and couldn't believe that us 4 mommas still had it!

Jess and I left early because we had a flight to catch the next morning but Gay and Whit stayed, listened to Wycleff Jean.....and then hit the hay....proud.

We had the best time, we enjoyed great conversation, lots of laughs, amazing food, motherhood counseling sessions, and then the happiness of returning home to our loves and our babies.

We did Vegas right girls, we did Vegas right!

{ My Memories Digital Scrapbook Software: Winner }

2012-01-23T13:14:00.000-08:00

The lucky winner is:

Heather Gines!

Congrats girlfriend! If you could email me your email address so I can tell you how to collect!

WOO HOOO!

And for those of you who didn't win I have a special deal for you! Go to mymemories.com and put in this promo code: STMMMS39126 and receive $10 off your own digital scrapbooking software. Making it only $29!

Such a fun and easy way to make your own DARLING photobooks!
Thanks My Memories for this awesome giveaway!

p.s. post tomorrow about our CRAZY Vegas adventures. It was so much fun I'm getting giddy just writing this. Until then you can go here and read a snippet of what we did!

{ Party Rockin... }

2012-01-20T07:00:00.000-08:00

I'm leaving for a girls weekend in

VEGAS

with out this little nut!

I couldn't be more excited. This is the first time I have left Mason for the weekend with Sam! Some how the stars aligned....He didn't have school Saturday, flights were cheap, my girls were ready to go, and I am going to be one happy momma!
So bring on the food, the shopping, and the late night laughs.

I have been needing you

{Giveaway!: My Memories Digital Scrapbook Software }

2012-01-19T07:32:00.000-08:00

I think it's been waaaay to long since I have done a giveaway so I'm pretty excited

to be doing one today....and it's such an awesome one!

My Memories is a digital scrap booking software and they are giving away one of their Digital Scrapbook Software. value: $39.97 for FREE!

I love this giveaway because A- I don't scrapbook, but I downloaded this software and now I love it!

B- It's soo easy to download and USE and now I can make cute photobooks with all the bagillion pictures I have of Mason!

With My Memories software anyone can create digital scrapbooks, photo books, cards, calendars and the best part is the software's design tools will help you to build entire albums effortlessly using one of the many installed templates, or designing your very own pages from scratch.

This is such a fun way to categorize and use all of your digital photos.
So do you want to get the scrapbooking bug and win My Memories awesome digital software for FREE and start making your own photo books?!

Here's how to enter

There will be 3 different ways to win!

1.*must do* Become a follower of All Things Lovely and leave a comment telling me you are

2. Like My Memories Facebook page and leave a comment telling me you did.

3. Follow My Memories on Twitter and tweet about this giveaway, then leave a comment telling me you did!

Winner will be chosen Monday Jan. 23

{ Where Did You Get That? and A Pinterest Linky Party }

2012-01-17T21:40:00.000-08:00

Since my photographer...aka Sam has been MIA, I'm stuck using crappy phone pic's. I tried to fancy them up as much as I could.

Poor Sammy has been swamped with school and work (he's almost done!!) and the sun goes down at 5 leaving me with limited options. As fun as indoor photos are a night....NOT. I resort to the trusty phone.

So please excuse them for just a little while.

And you bet we are doing a Pinterest Recreation Linky Party again this week.

So link up! It can be anything you have made off of pinterest!

Pinterest Recreation #1

Stripes on Chambray

striped sweater: F21, chambray: F21, black pants: F21, leopard flats: Target, ring: F21, watch: Nordstrom

Pinterest Recreation #2

Easy Breezy

cardigan: Gap, shirt: Target, wide leg trousers: H&M, shoes: F21, necklace: gifted (H&M)

striped shirt: Old Navy, pants: F21, moccasin boots: Steve Madden(Zappos), bracelet: gifted (H&M)

sweater: Old Navy, pants: F21, scarf: gifted, moccasin boots: Steve Madden (zappos)

Stripes on stripes

dress: Marshall's, cardigan: Pac Sun, leggings: Target, boots: F21

Linking up with:

Pleated Poppy

Momma Go Round

Rolled Up Pretty

Now it's your turn:

Party Rules:

1. Your link must be a recreation of something you found from Pinterest. It can be anything, decor, crafts, recipes, or outfits

2. Please post the original item from pinterest along with your recreation- or attempt ;)

3. Please link back here so your fab readers can know where to join our linky party! you can grab a button from my side bar

What to Wear: To A Wedding

2012-01-17T13:54:00.000-08:00

My friend Stephanie emailed at the end of last week asking for help on where to buy an outfit for her friends wedding. She needed the outfit by Friday, she's on a budget, and she lives in Oregon where it's a little chilly.

I'm always up for a good fashion scavenger hunt. Since my time was pretty limited I didn't get to search as many places as I would have liked...but I think I came up with some fun, easy outfits, that wont break the bank and can be worn over and over again.

Since it's winter time I'm all about the layers, and opaque tights. I also love a good dress that could transition from winter into summer.

I put together a couple outfits of seperates that would look cute on their own, with jeans, or with the skirt for nicer events.

All of these items can be purchased at Nordstrom, Old Navy, or Target.

I think these inspiration boards are a fun thing to copy, or take the ideas and make them your own by finding items that are similar.

Thanks for your fashion question Stephanie!

Hope you like them and....happy shopping!

I love this dressy yet comfy combo. The dress sinches at the waist, is flattering on all body types, and has a little sparkle which dresses it up a bit. Pair with black tights and heels.

blazer:BP Nordstrom, dress: BP for Nordstrom, shoes: Steve Madden, tights: Nordstrom

This dress is dressy and chic with out much effort. The color is stunning, pair it with nude colored pumps and your outfit is complete. Minimal jewelry.

dress: Nordstrom, shoes: Jessica Simpson

I love this classy feminine outfit. The dress alone is perfect and comes with the faux strand of pearls! I paired it with the chunky knit sweater (since its winter) and nude colored pumps so it wouldn't distract from the dress. Add maybe a fun ring...but your jewelry is already on the dress!

sweater: Old Navy, dress: BP Nordstrom, shoes

I know you're not supposed to wear white to a wedding, but this dress is too fab! (and it's kinda off white anyways!) I paired it with a bright blue blazer for color and so it's not all white..... The black tights are optional and pair with black or nude pumps. Love it!

blazer: Nordstrom, dress: BP Nordstrom, shoes, tights

This dress is so flirty and sassy...I love the black and gold and the sleeves!

Dress: BP Nordstrom, shoes, tights

Another flirty fun dress that can be worn in the winter and the summer! You could easily make this more casual as well by pairing it with boots and a chunky sweater

blazer: Nordstrom, Dress: BP Nordstrom, shoes

I don't know the occasion of the wedding....this is obviously a more casual look. This could be worn all the time, not just for a wedding

skirt: BP Nordstrom, shirt: Old Navy, blazer: Nordstrom, shoes, tights

Classic sophisticated. Grey dress, white blazer, black pumps, and for fun you could add in some patterned tights

blazer, dress: Target, shoes, tights: Nordstrom

Anyone can pull off this darling printed wrap dress with black pumps. The sweater might be to casual..if so wear a dramatic pea coat or black blazer to fancy it up

shoes, dress: Old Navy, cardigan: Old Navy

Again another casual option that could be worn to more places that just a wedding. Love the tulip skirt from Old Navy

blazer: Nordstrom, shirt: Old Navy, tulip skirt: Old Navy, shoes

I thought these dresses are perfect for a more body conscious person. The wrapping in the middle will hid any tummy problems and the length hits just above the knee which is flattering. To fancy this outfit up pair with black or nude heels, and dramatic jewelry...think statement necklaces!

For more casual pair with fun printed tights and the shoe pictured below.

dress: Target, shoes: Miz Moo's

{ Best and Worst of The Weekend }

2012-01-17T12:53:00.000-08:00

Are the weeks just flying by or is it just me?!

Last week went EXTREMELY slow...but the weekend just flew by. It was a busy exhausting week for Sam with school and work, and it was an exhausting week for me with a wild toddler. I think I was counting down the minutes for Friday. I wanted to plan a surprise getaway for Sam's birthday since it was a long weekend, and he didn't have work on Monday. But flight costs didn't allow it, so instead we had a nice staycation.

Here's the low down:

{ Best }

Sam's Birthday! Mason and I took him out for a little birthday breakfast

then birthday shopping followed

snagged our favorite babysitter so we could have a party for Sam

dinner with friends at Ichiban....child-less!

Lots and LOTS of laughs and inappropriate drawings on fogged windows

Dessert at Salt Lake Roasting Company

Staying out late with friends chatting and celebrating Sam

Rise and shine

Day at the Aquarium for Momma and baby

Loved the penguins and "oo scarwy sharks"

got to see lots and lots of "shishes" (fishes)

Love spending time with my little guy

Lunch date at Chick-Fil-A and you bet Mason ate an 8 pack of nuggets himself.

Free Balloons ( this was the best thing of Mason's weekend....he told me)

Daddy came home early from school....yay!

Lots of ball throwing and wrestling for Daddy and Mason

Quick dinner

early to bed

Breakfast date..mmm pancakes and eggs

Dinner Birthday celebration for Sam and Mikal

Turkey dinner, stuffing, mashed potatoes....mmmm mmm mmm

Coke Cake (the best!)

Our new family tradition of doing a slide show of old pictures of the "birthday person"

Sam was the cutest little boy

No Work on MONDAY, well momma had to work for couple hours

$20 tip

Lazy afternoon

Snuggling by the fire

Monday Night Family Night at Zero Gravity in Kaysville (yes we went to another trampoline place!)

Had so much fun jumping and playing with the family at this nice new facility!

Dinner at Noodles and Co.

A great way to end the weekend!

{ Worst }

I didn't get to take Sam on my surprise getaway

The WORST Sunday afternoon of my life...I'm struggling with my new calling and lets just say I ended up completely overwhelmed and in tears :(

I didn't take one picture of our FUN night on Friday for Sam's birthday.....we were just having way too much fun

Started planning future trips with friends that i hope actually happen...hint hint

The aftermath of a long weekend with lots of help from Sam- the next day is always so hard.

he knows his way around Einsteins a liiiiittle to well. just ordering his own bagel, no big deal

the only pictures i could get...he was running around the aquarium so excited i couldn't get a normal photo

the slide show tradition...look at that cute bum

a picture of everyone taking a picture.....

Happy Birthday Mikal and Sam

{ Fashion Friday: Where To Buy Nude Colored Pumps }

2012-01-13T14:08:00.000-08:00

I received an email last week from my friend Jamie wondering where she could buy some nude colored pumps. She wanted something that she could wear with bright colored tights, and something that wasn't too tall.

I was so excited to help because Nude/ Blush colored shoes are my favorite!

1. Chinese Laundry

2. Steve Madden

3. Jessica Simpson

4. Steve Madden

5. Piper Lime

6. Target

7. Nine West

8. Target

9. Steve Madden

10. Nine West

Low heel:

Nordstrom

Wedges:

Zappos (currently sold out)

DSW

{ Happy Birthday Love }

2012-01-13T13:30:00.000-08:00

This handsome devil happens to be having a Birthday today!

Not only is he super sexy, he's hilarious, the funniest guy I know, makes me laugh every day, supports me, loves me, he's the best cheerleader, the most amazing Father and provider. He's hardworking, genuine, and everyone he meets instantly loves him. He's amazing, he's all mine, and he's my best friend.

Happy 32 years YOUNG. Love ya babe

{ Christmas and New Year's 2011 }

2012-01-12T22:50:00.000-08:00

It's a little late...but it's better than never!

I love this little bloggy blog so that I can document all these fun Holidays and moments that we get to spend together as families. It's my forever scrapbook and I'm grateful I have it.

Christmas 2011 was awesome as usual! We flew to Seattle to spend Christmas at Nana's....our yearly tradition. Even though half the family couldn't be there, that didn't stop us from making the most of it and having an awesome time. Mason was officially the only grandchild there this year...but trust me he soaked up EVERY minute of the attention. He LOVED it. Not only did he have his doting Nana to wait on him, he had his two loving aunties that were willing to play and tickle and love on him.

He was just a titch spoiled with attention.

We flew in early on the 23rd and relaxed and got settled in that day. Then that night we went to Snow Flake Lane at the Bellevue Square where they put on a little production. It includes fake snow, drummers on stilts, loud music, lots of people, and lots of fun. Mason was in heaven with the drummers...he kept saying drums drums...he was literally mesmerized. So much so he fell asleep half way through. ( He was tired from traveling :( We eventually woke him up for dinner and then went home to put the little man to bed.

The next day was Christmas Eve and not much was planned for the day. We decided to take Mason to the Pacific Science Center...which he LOVED and it was an awesome idea by us, hardly anyone was there...so we kinda had the place to ourselves. He played on the toys, tested out all the gadgets and machines, pet a star fish, saw giant dinosaurs, and walked through the butterfly exhibit. He was a little nervous at first but by the end he kept saying "bu-erflies" "bu-erflies". He even remember the butterflies that landed on the banana and orange. Little smarty pants.

Christmas Eve was low key and perfect. We had a delicious dinner, stuffed our faces, then somehow made room for dessert. We let Mason open a gift from Nana, a Huskies football shirt, perfect, and then we put him to bed so we could wrap wrap wrap.

Christmas fell on Sunday this year, which was actually kind of nice. It was a great reminder of the meaning of Christmas...and it was a wonderful meeting of just Christmas songs. It was a great way to start the day. By the time we got home little man was exhausted so he took a nap, the rest of us had a breakfast feast..it was seriously soo good...and then waited a little bit for Mason to wake up. Lets just say it wasn't a traditional Christmas morning and we really didn't start opening presents til about 1! But it was relaxing and fun....and I kinda liked it that way...only because I know that will never happen again.

Naps and snacks followed only to get ready for more food. Dinner. Aren't the Holidays amazing. I kinda love all the eating that's involved :)!

The rest of the week in Seattle was so fun. We were able to do a little shopping. We went downtown into Seattle, we ate great food, and we even saw a MOVIE....at a luxury theater too. It was SO much fun.

It was a wonderful Christmas and I'm so thankful for Sam's family.

Our vacation didn't stop there...oh no we're crazy like that! We flew from Seattle to St. George to be with my side of the family for my grandparents 50th wedding anniversary! 50 years...can you believe that?!

We had so much fun in St. George...the sun was shining....we were able to go to the park and take walks outside. Oh how I love that place.

We had as many people crammed into my grandparents house as we could...there were people sleeping in every corner of the house. It was so fun. The nights were loud and filled with games and lots of laughs! Sam, me, my brother, his girlfriend, and my sister hit up Zero Gravity a trampoline place, to try and burn some energy. Mason of course loved it...he's getting pretty good at this jumping stuff. My brother rocked the flips and Mikal was even able to teach Sam a how to do a back flip. Races across the trampolines followed where I totally kicked Sam's butt and he got a KILLER rug burn on his face to prove it! HA! Jada rocked the dodge ball, putting lots of 11 year old boys in their place!

My Grandparents 50th Anniversary party was a success. Their family and friends were there to support and celebrate with them. We had a low key delicious dinner, and watched an awesome slide show that my uncle put together. I'm so glad we were able to make it and support them. My Grandparents have been good to us, always supporting us in all that we do, never missing a birthday, or game. They are amazing and I love them so much.

The rest of the vacation was relaxing and so much fun. We went swimming one day, went to the park, ate more food, and then went to Mesquite for New Year's Eve! My grandma was in heaven..she had all of her player's cards wrapped around her neck. Sam also was in heaven and he quickly vanished to the tables the second we walked in the door. My mom and I played a few penny slots and had a lady try to teach us how to rig the machines. (Let's just say it did NOT work). The place was jam packed with the most random group of people...but that's what makes a casino a casino.

Everyone broke even or made a little money.....overall the night was a success and plenty of fun.

It was hard to come home after being away for so long....and you always get a nice dose of reality the second you walk in the door. Messes to clean up, luggage, laundry, Christmas decor to put away, and on top of that I got a flu bug.

It was worth it though. We had so much fun with family....enjoyed the Christmas season. Did so many fun activities, and spent 11 days of QUALITY time...which hasn't happened in a while. So it was nice.

2011 was a success....it's been a hard, busy year....but it's been a blessed wonderful year. If 2012 is anything like 2011 I'll take it. Bring it on.

Hello Seattle

Christmas Eve

Christmas!

his AMAZING elf ears from Nana that he DIDN'T take off all day. He LOVED them!

One day we went to this really neat green house near UW

St. George

Sam's battle wounds from our race

Grandma and Grandpa's 50th

New Year's Eve

Happy New Year!

{ Where Did You Get That? and A Pinterest ReCreation Linky Party }

2012-01-10T23:06:00.000-08:00

It's been too long, FINALLY
here's a Wednesday outfit post with my Pinterest ReCreations!

I hope you guys made things last week or re-created some of your favorite pins from pinterest that you can link up!

It's quite the fun party to join you know

Pinterest ReCreation #1

Striped dress, belt, mustard cardigan, brown boots

I didn't have a mustard cardigan so I used blue instead

cardigan: BP for Nordstrom, dress: Marshall's, belt: H&M, leggings: Target, boots: Target, xoxo necklace: gifted (banana republic)

Pinterest ReCreation #2

Sequin skirt, flowy blouse, blazer

blazer: Target, blouse: F21, skirt: H&M, leggings: Target, boots: F21

Pinterest ReCreation #3

stripes, camel colored pants

shirt: Old Navy, pants: H&M, oxfords: Target, bracelets: vintage, watch: Nordstrom

Work Outfit

feather shirt: Target, vest: Target, belt: H&M, black pants: F21, shoes: Forever Young Shoes

Cozy Outfit

oversized sweater: Gap, chambray: F21, leggings: F21, moccasins: Steve Madden

Sunday Outfit

cardigan: Banana Republic Outlet, dress: F21, tights: BP for Nordstrom, shoes: H&M, ring: H&M, black necklace: jennijewel etsy, xoxo necklace: gifted

I'm linking up with:

Pleated Poppy

Momma Go Round

Rolled Up Pretty

Now it's your turn! Remember it can be ANYTHING that you have ReCreated from Pinterest!! :)

Party Rules:

1. Your link must be a recreation of something you found from Pinterest. It can be anything, decor, crafts, recipes, or outfits

2. Please post the original item from pinterest along with your recreation- or attempt ;)

3. Please link back here so your fab readers can know where to join our linky party! you can grab a button from my side bar

{ Best and Worst of The Weekend }

2012-01-09T13:22:00.000-08:00

Last, best and worst post, I recieved a few comments in shock about how much we do in a weekend.

And yes it's true...We like to take full advantage in this house.

No lazy Saturdays here....well every once in a while.

The weekends to us are time to party, go to dinner, see friends, plan activities.

I'm in the house all the time by myself...so when Friday rolls around it's time to get out and never look back :)

So here's a recap to another fun filled weekend

{ Best }

A little shopping with my little man

Old Navy has tons of cute stripes and a sale

a little trip to the park (it was warm and sunny)

turkey sandwiches with chips and salsa

Dinner with friends, letting kids run wild, lots of laughs

Mason yelling "FRIENDS" when Camryn and Levi walked outside of their house

Pad Thai from Pei Wei

Waking up to SNOW

lots and lots of snow

Bagels with my boys....our new Saturday regular

Took Mason too his first basketball game....UW vs. Utah

Mason got to wear his new Washington shirt from Nana

Mason LOVED the game

Churros and hot dogs

UW won!

Saturday snooze

My brother, sister, and Mikal babysitting Mason so we could go to Sam's School's Holiday Party at Cuccina Nassi.

Mmmm Mmmmm Mmmm

yummy raviolis and rissoto

gellato

Good company

Killer karaoke and dancing

Sam and one of his buddies busting out "I'm too Sexy"

Lots of cat-walking, booty shaking, and the worm included in that performance

My cheeks hurting from laughing

A fun night with my honey

Sleeping in

lots of counting and playing with race cars

By some miracle Mason took a nap before church which is at 1

Taught my new class in church...I'm in Primary and teach cute 4 year olds!

Oh the things kids say

I felt like I was on an episode of sesame street

Dinner with the fam

Games, oatmeal cookies

and bed time.

ahhhh

{ Worst }

A very tired boy had a very tired melt down that included a lot of head banging,

it's becoming a problem!

Trying to find somewhere to eat on a Friday night with 5 crazy kids

Shoveling snow ( Sam's problem, not mine :)

Our new church time 1:00...ugh...right during lunch, nap time, ornery time, then come home and have to hurry and make dinner because everyone is starving, then eat and its almost bed time.

I am not a fan.

Starting a new, New Years resolution challenge...this is a good thing...but it's just always hard to start

Hot Hair Trends 2012

2012-01-06T07:00:00.000-08:00

It's a new year...and I'm feelin the itch for a new me. I don't know a revamping of sorts.

I don't know if it should be my hair, my wardrobe, maybe a makeup overhaul, a tattoo. Not sure. But I'm in need of SOMETHING.

So while I'm trying to figure it out...here's a few of my favorite hair trends for 2012.

Images found here!

Short Hair

1960's Mod Bob

Medium Length Hair

Piled Up High Hair

tutorial go here

Long Hair

Bouncy Blow Out

Half Up Brigitte Bardot

tutorial go here

Spring/

Summer

Headwraps

tutorial on how to tie go here

Men's

Undercut

Shoulder Length

Parted on the side, slicked over

{ Crockpot Fiesta Chicken }

2012-01-05T11:30:00.000-08:00

I'm baaacck!! I didn't expect to take THAT long of a hiatus...although it was kind of nice, but it seems

the blogging gods have been working against me!

Every time I have sat down to do a post something interrupts it. Either the computer will freeze or randomly shut down, Tuesday night I came down with some sort of bug and was spewing into the wee hours or the morning. Yesterday I didn't move my exhausted butt off the couch.

And today well I'm feeling better, and so far the computer hasn't shut down. So we might actually get a post!

I thought I would post a YUMMY easy meal, since it's hard getting back into the swing of things after holiday/vacation/new year.

For this recipe you just dump everything into the crock pot and let it cook...doesn't get much better than that. You will also have plenty for leftovers!

The first night I served it over rice,and for leftovers I put it on top of salad, with a tortilla and had a fiesta chicken salad. Both ways are delish.

Fiesta Chicken

recipe found via: The Girl Who Ate Everything

4 chicken breasts, frozen or thawed

1 (15 1/2 ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed

1 (15 ounce) can corn, drained

1 (15 ounce) jar of your favorite salsa

1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese

Take 4 frozen, yes, frozen (or thawed), boneless chicken breasts put into crock pot. Add 1 can of black beans, drained, 1 jar of salsa, 1 can of corn drained. Keep in crock pot on low for about 4-5 hours or until chicken is cooked. Once it is cooked, take it out and shred it. Return shredded chicken to the crockpot.

Add 1 package of cream cheese (just throw it on top!) and let sit for about 1/2 hour. It may look at little strange at this point. Don't worry. Stir in the cream cheese.

Serve over rice or in warm flour tortillas.

{ Merry Christmas }

2011-12-23T07:00:00.000-08:00

Hope your Holiday is Merry and Bright!

see you in 2012!

xoxo

Camille

{ Christmas Part 1 }

2011-12-22T14:13:00.001-08:00

Our Christmas is usually spent in two parts.

Part one is spent with my family, usually a few days before Christmas

and

part two is spent in Seattle with Sam's side of the family. It's how we do it and I love it.

It's nice to be on vacation over the holiday because you are forced to relax, shop, eat, and bake. All the things that make the holiday special..i think anyways. Add in family too!

We had a delicious dinner with my family and then headed back to our home so we could swap and open presents. This year I kept it pretty simple and gave my mom, dad, and brother tickets to see Bryan Regan. They have been dying to see him and I thought it would be a different fun present.

Turns out it was a hit. They are pretty excited!

Jada wanted a crafting kit, so we got her that plus a few feather extensions and a book.

Mason stole the show as expected. He made out with a mini drum set.....HE LOVES it! and a motorized bike/4wheeler thing. He loves the drums at my dads house and could play them forever (he's pretty good too) so they bought him his very own set! It's the perfect way for this kid to let out some energy. And the bike will be awesome in the spring...for now he is riding it in the living room...which works out for me...a few bumps into the doors and furniture.

Sam and I were given wonderful gifts from my parents and siblings. We feel so loved and blessed.

I can't believe Christmas is already here.

Another year down.

Hope you have a very Merry Christmas!

xoxo

the picture on the bottom right cracks me up...he couldn't open the boxes fast enough so instead he climbed on top!

The Wedding Wish

2011-12-22T14:00:00.000-08:00

The Wedding Wish

Lala's Lens and Twigs and a Pearl Videography are collaborating this Christmas Season to give a deserving Bride a wedding of her dreams! Do you know someone who has had a sudden financial struggle, someone that has had tragedy strike, or someone that is always giving of themselves but not getting much in return? We are looking for those Brides that want the wedding of their dreams but won’t be able to have it otherwise!

We would love your help in spreading Christmas cheer this season! Please join us in this great effort and post this on your Blog, Facebook, or Twitter in order to get the word out about this amazing opportunity! Let’s work together in order to help grant A Wedding Wish!

What the deserving Bride will win:

Full wedding day photography coverage by Lala's Lens

Free Bridals and Engagements by Lala’s Lens

Free Wedding Announcement Voucher

Full Wedding day video coverage by Twigs and a Pearl

Free Love Story by Twigs and a Pearl

Free Bridals by Twigs and a Pearl

Free Raw Footage from the Wedding Day

Free hair and make-up by Kelsie Ball!

And more wedding goodies to come!

Totaling over $5,000 in free Wedding Awesomeness!

Please refer below as to how this will run:

Rules:

- You cannot nominate yourself or immediate family

- Bride's ceremony must take place within 80 miles of Salt Lake City

- The wedding must take place in 2012

- We (The Wedding Wish) deserve the right to select the Bride according to our digression.

How to nominate a Bride:

Send an email to theweddingwish@gmail.com with the following information:

1- Your name, phone number, and email address

2- The Bride’s name

3- The Bride’s wedding date

4- Why this Bride deserves this Wedding Wish

More info at Utahweddingwish.blogspot.com or The Wedding Wish on Facebook

Lala's Lens and Twigs and a Pearl will choose the winning Bride based on needs by December 31^st, 2011.

Once again, let’s join together this Christmas season and spread the word about this great opportunity! We have included The Wedding Wish button and the links to our blogs and our Facebook Pages for more info.

Thanks for your help!

{ Where Did You Get That? & a Pinterest ReCreation Linky Party }

2011-12-21T13:36:00.000-08:00

This post would have happened earlier if a little someone hadn't gotten into the toilet last night and splashed water ALL OVER the bathroom and himself.

Lets just say it became a deep cleaning day...which is good our house needed it and we leave for vacation soon so it's always nice to have a clean house to come home too.

With that said here is what I wore

and if you happened to get crafty, or wear a fab outfit from Pinterest...Link it up!

Pinterest ReCreation #1- Black military sweater, pink skirt, black tights

sweater: F21, dress: H&M, tights: TJ Maxx, booties: F21

Pinterest ReCreation #2- Wide leg trousers, patterned blouse top

blouse: Old Navy, belt: H&M, pants:F21, shoes: H&M, necklace: vintage

Pinterest ReCreation #3- Stripes, blazer, boots, knit cap

knit cap: F21-mens, blazer: Target, striped shirt: Old Navy, pants: F21, booties: Old Navy, ring: H&M

Pinterest ReCreation #4- Grey top, black pants, leopard flats

sweatshirt top: Target, black pants: F21, leopard flats: Target, ring: F21

Work outfit

black/gold sweater: Gap, black pants: F21, booties; F21, ring: F21

I'm linking up:

Pleated Poppy

Momma Go Round

Rolled Up Pretty

Now it's your turn! Remember it can be ANYTHING that you have ReCreated from Pinterest!! :)

Party Rules:

1. Your link must be a recreation of something you found from Pinterest. It can be anything, decor, crafts, recipes, or outfits

2. Please post the original item from pinterest along with your recreation- or attempt ;)

3. Please link back here so your fab readers can know where to join our linky party! you can grab a button from my side bar

{ Best and Worst of the Weekend }

2011-12-20T12:24:00.000-08:00

It was a festive/ celebratory weekend

I loved it

{ Best }

Took Mason to Boondocks to play some arcade games...he's actually really good at basketball!

(there were also a lot of grown men there in the middle of the day with out kids...it was kind of weird)

Sam finished his FINAL!! No school for 3 weeks!! YAY!!

Christmas shopping

Cozy dinner at the Blue Plate Diner

Pancakes and Huevos Rancheros....that's a perfect dinner

Drove around the avenues looking at Christmas lights

Watched a movie with my honey

Breakfast with SAM because he didn't have school!

Went to my first ZUMBA class! It was so fun, I might just be addicted. It felt good to shake my groove thing and work up a sweat!

Daddy took Mason swimming at the rec center, he LOVES the big water slide!

nap time

Went to Jump on It with our friends the Forsloff's and Matt

Kids and adults having way to much fun on the trampolines

A wonderful dinner provided by Erin and (pinterest :)

Lots of laughs

Tired baby

Cozy cold Sunday morning

Afternoon naps for everyone

Snicker doodles

Went to Layton City Park to drive around and look at their light display

Pandora Christmas station playing in the background

Snuggle by the fire

and then off to bed

I love this time of year..I wish it lasted months longer

two peas in a pod: this was my view while I was eating breakfast...love those two boys

{ Birthday Catch Up }

2011-12-17T13:54:00.000-08:00

I forgot to post my baby sister and my younger taller brothers birthdays!

This year they were spent at my parent's home eating a dinner of their choice and then watching a slide show of old pictures of THEM.

It was so much fun...I think I like this "new" tradition that we have started. I love looking at old pictures...and the flood of memories that come to you after looking at each one.

I have the best siblings around. They are beautiful, strong, smart, and talented individuals.

Happy Birthday Jada and Cody.

Jada 12 years

Our friend George was in town visiting...he got in on the action too, we just couldn't leave him out! And Mason wanted to blow out as many candles as he could that night!

Cody 20 years old

Hot Trend: Knee High Boots

2011-12-16T05:00:00.000-08:00

For those of you who didn't like to rock the "over the knee boots" or didn't even want to try....have no fear a new height is here.

Hot trend alert for Winter 2011/2012 is the knee high boot.

A little easier to wear , and they look awesome with skinny jeans or skirts.

This is the perfect item to add to your Holiday Wish List....there are so many options out there....and anyone can pull them off!

Striped sweater, jeans, knee high boots, and scarf.

Psshhh, no problem perfect winter outfit!

image found via

Where to buy:

1. Ruche

2. H&M 3. Anthropologie

4. Steve Madden 5. DSW

6. Free People 7. Steve Madden

8. repeat..oops

Recipe: Best Sugar Cookies Ever

2011-12-15T06:00:00.000-08:00

These are by far the tastiest sugar cookies....ever.

They are soft and chewy and not your average plain sugar cookie oh no...these are delish.

Trust me,

I like to consider myself a bit of sugar cookie snob because I used to hate sugar cookies! They used to give me headaches. I know so random...what's new I'm weird. But seriously, certain sugar cookies used to give me these raging headaches so I would never eat them!

Until now....dun dun dun

Anywho....on to the recipe!

Butter Sugar Cookies

Recipe by: Raegene Macgregor

You will need:

3/4 cup of butter

1cup sugar

2 eggs

1 tsp. pure vanilla

2 - 2 1/4 cups flour

1 tsp. baking powder

1/8 tsp. salt

3 drops lemon extract

Thoroughly cream butter, sugar, vanilla, lemon extract, and eggs. Beat until light and fluffy.

Sift together dry ingredients and blend into creamed mixture.

On a lightly floured surface roll dough to approximately 1/8 in or thicker

( this dough is very sticky so you will need a GOOD amount of flour on the surface, on the rolling pin, and the cookie cutters. If it gets to sticky don't get discouraged just add more flour to the surfaces)

Cut into desired shapes and place on baking tray.

Bake at 350 degrees for approx. 10 min. ( take out of oven before they start to brown on edges if you want them soft!)

Cool and frost with cream cheese frosting

see, lots of flour is needed!

Cream Cheese Frosting

You will need:

3 ounces softened cream cheese

2 Tbsp. softened butter

1 tsp. pure vanilla

1 box powdered sugar

*food coloring optional

Combine cream cheese, butter, and vanilla. Beat until light and fluffy.

Gradually add sugar until icing becomes desired consistency for spreading or dipping.

Decorate and enjoy!

All Things Lovely...

{ My New Motto }

{ Where Did You Get That? and A Pinterest Recreation Linky Party }

{ Girls Trip: Las Vegas }

{ My Memories Digital Scrapbook Software: Winner }

{ Party Rockin... }

{Giveaway!: My Memories Digital Scrapbook Software }

{ Where Did You Get That? and A Pinterest Linky Party }

What to Wear: To A Wedding

{ Best and Worst of The Weekend }

{ Fashion Friday: Where To Buy Nude Colored Pumps }

{ Happy Birthday Love }

{ Christmas and New Year's 2011 }

Sponsored Post: KSL Deals Superbowl Giveaway

{ Where Did You Get That? and A Pinterest ReCreation Linky Party }

{ Best and Worst of The Weekend }

Hot Hair Trends 2012

{ Crockpot Fiesta Chicken }

{ Merry Christmas }

{ Christmas Part 1 }

The Wedding Wish

{ Where Did You Get That? & a Pinterest ReCreation Linky Party }

{ Best and Worst of the Weekend }

{ Birthday Catch Up }

Hot Trend: Knee High Boots

Recipe: Best Sugar Cookies Ever