Krystal's Kitsch

Project 366 {Catch Up}

2012-06-03T07:00:00.000-04:00

I sort of fell off the map with all those 30 Day Photo Challenges. Never fear -- I caught up -- and am going to share the best of the bunch.

Source: fatmumslim.com.au via Krystal on Pinterest

How I Did:

1: My bump getting bigger!

2: Color: A picture of eyeshadow from a magazine

3: Baby's crib sheets and Sleep sacks! I won these and got them in the mail.

4: Someone who makes me happy. The husband. Obviously.

5: Tiny baby clothes.

6: Lunch!

7: Shadow...how about eyeshadow!

8: This is the wrong photo... haha that is not the inside of my wallet! I'm far too lazy to go back and edit that. Just pretend it looks like this. This is the wallet I have. Of course, Target.

9: Mini me!

10: Ice cream, holllller! It's cold.

11: Where I ate breakfast. My cozy couch.

12: Stairs.

13: Something I found in a magazine... chicken and waffle cupcakes?!

14: How I feel today... pretty blah. That's my BLAH face.

15: Sunset.

16: Fake Flower on my desk.

17: I don't like carrots.

18: Hair. Kaze has a lot of it.

19: Orange. I'm kind of addicted to Capri Suns nowadays.

20: Something I drew. A terrible rendition of the Rugrats in Draw Something.

21: Bottle of water.

22: Last thing I bought. Seriously I'm going through Slurpees like nobody's business.

23: Vegetable.

24: Grateful for my husband and our new addition.

25: Looking down... at me.

26: Black and white. A story I wrote published. Bam.

27: Somewhere I went.

28: 1pm

29: A circle

30: Something that makes me sad... it's a wolf puppy!! I want to adopt it!!

Source: fatmumslim.com.au via Krystal on Pinterest

And... the results!

1: Peace. Or Reese's Pieces. Close enough.
2: Skyline. From my back porch.
3: What I Wore Today.
4: Fun. Free stuff in the mail. This is via Klout.
5: Bird.
6: It's me.
7: Someone who inspires you. The husband.
8: My collection of mini perfumes.
9: Something I do everyday--- or at least try to! Lotion!
10: Words -- some of them are my favorite.
11: Kitchen. Spices!
12: Blogging makes me happy.
13: Mom. A shirt I got!
14: Grass. Or ... dead grass.
15: Love.
16: What I'm reading. Some gem from the Dollar Tree.
17: Snack!
18: Something I made. A calendar for this year!
19: A favorite place. A shot from our honeymoon.
20: Can't live without chocolate milk nowadays...
21: Where I stand. On clean carpet!
22: Pink. This nail polish wins.
23: Technology.
24: Something new... came in the mail!
25: Something unusual... this glass beaded bracelet.
26: 12 pm. Say hi Denali!
27: Sweet.
28: The weather right now. HOT.
29: A number. Doing some Key West figuring!
30: My personality... barefoot on the beach. That about sums it up.
31: Something beautiful. I love this picture from our wedding. Him talking to me right before he surprised me with a song.

Ya know, that's a total chore... but I suppose at the end of the year I can look back and say that at least I did this. I documented the year with random photos and phrases.

Up next: June! Have you given up on these challenges yet?

Source: fatmumslim.com.au via Krystal on Pinterest

Getting to Know Me // Q + A

2012-05-31T08:35:00.000-04:00

Since I've gained a lot of new readers from the Better Blogger Network and a few other sources, I thought it was time to "re-introduce" myself and my blog. I had written this quick survey for Neely back in January when I sponsored her blog and thought it would be great to re-post it here. I did add some edits to make this survey more current! ;)

For those that don't know, I'm Krystal and I blog over at Krystal's Kitsch. I keep it silly and try to document my life. I'm married, we moved to a new city about seven months, and am trying to get all settled in with a new job, new house, and new outlook on life. I'm a very optimistic person who enjoys setting goals and keeping track of my progress. We are expanding our family in September -- one baby boy on the way!

1. When and why did you start your blog? I started my blog back in 2008. My first post was November of 2008 and it was basically three sentences long. I started my blog to stay connected to friends and family. It sort of evolved into a daily document of my life that I share not only with people I know--but also strangers. I'm okay with that! I love sharing sales, crafts, and my life with anyone willing to listen.

2. What do you want people to know about you and your blog? I like to keep things "light." I want to have fun. Blogging can be a business or even a career for some people. After all, I did just receive my Master's in Technology. However, I just like to use it as a tool to share my life with others. I don't mind the reviews or giveaway opportunities that come with blogging... The internet and its tools are certainly a part of my life. I just like to use my blog as a way to share my opinions and learn from others.

3. What are your two favorite posts you have written? Just two? Come on, Neely! ;) I could talk about how I just celebrated my birthday drunk at a Hanson concert. I could share my love of journaling or easy DIY. But -- if you just want me to pick two -- I would pick two posts that are special to me. My wedding and my secret reveal of my reality TV show participation. I didn't tell anyone for a long while about what was "up." My wedding was certainly not normal--it was a lot of fun! Before you judge me for being on a reality show, just know that it was all in good fun and shouldn't be taken 100% seriously. The details of my reception is also one post that I love the most too. There was a lot of time and effort put into just how my reception went down!

Since then, I would have to say some of my favorite posts (and most well received!) were my Mama to Be Pictures and Announcing My Pregnancy!

4. A brief blurb about you: If you take the time to email or follow my blog, I will return the favor! I go through my emails daily and try to follow new blogs regularly. Sometimes my followers widget isn't the most up-to-date so I can't tell if you're a new follower unless you comment! I love discovering new blogs and learning from others.

5. What is your biggest pet peeve? Mixing politics with blogging. There are a lot of heated opinions out there nowadays. 2012 is going to be an Election Year... a big one at that. I love my readers and politics ... but don't want to subject y'all to my opinions. I might tell you who I voted for... after the election!

Q + A
So, here we go! I've never opened my blog up for questions before -- and if I did I don't remember ever answering them. I'd love to answer your questions! Now that my show is airing on Netflix Instant Streaming and it's been over a year since it was filmed and aired, I can talk a lot more about the process and what happened behind the scenes.

Also, I'd love to get random silly questions since I do have new readers. Give me something to do at work, please. :)

*I'm looking for large sponsors--ETSY shop owners, small businesses, or just someone who wants to get their blog more exposure. I'm all full with ad swaps -- what a success Passionfruit Ads turned out to be. Check out the sponsorship information here. I'm almost up to 900 followers -- how did that happen? ;)

*My giveaway for anything from eShakti is ending today! Don't forget to enter -- and you can tweet every day for an extra entry! Enter here!

My makeup is finally organized

2012-05-30T07:30:00.000-04:00

This was a huge task. I had so many products, samples, bottles lined up on the counter in the bathroom. My drawers were overflowing. My shower caddy full. It was time for a major overhaul.

I went through and purged about a garbage bag and a half of old, abandoned products. Things I tried but didn't love, samples from my many Birchboxes that sat unused, and even *gasp* products that were expired. Lord, how long had I been carrying those around?

After going through everything and getting mildly organized, I had one solution for my makeup storage problem.

A Tabletop Spinning Cosmetic Organizer by Lori Greiner. And, yes, it's from QVC.

For $30 my sanity is restored. Everything has its place. I can see all my makeup at once [granted, I don't have TOO much, but I do have a substantial collection]. All my palettes and larger bottles are stored in a drawer and I use another countertop storage thing for things I use everyday -- like my contact lens solution.

Lots of brushes. They're either Estee Lauder or ELF. I have a lot of ELF stuff.

Some mineral makeup that I use infrequently.

While I'm not the most organized person or the tidiest, at least my bathroom has some kind of order!

Call for June Sponsors + Ad Swaps!

2012-05-29T19:36:00.001-04:00

Gosh, Passionfruit Ads really makes this whole sponsoring thing fun again.

I've opened my blog up for both paid and unpaid opportunities.

I have a few slots left for unpaid -- a 100 x 100 button swap!

I am however looking for ETSY shop owners or small businesses who want to have a larger ad and would want to host a giveaway for the month of June. =]

Over 800 GFC Followers
619 Subscribers
Over 1,800 Twitter Followers
250+ Facebook Fans
Over 100,000 page views
A steady spike in traffic everytime my Bridezillas episodes replay

& I try to blog at least 5 times a week. But, I'm pregnant so no promises! ;)

Button Swapping is FREE. Just enter code 'Kitsch' at check out!

I am currently seeking sponsors for my blog. The starting monthly rate will be just either $10, $5 or free--depending on your needs!
Sponsorships vary in price due to ad placement and size, but all sponsorships include the following:

1 Blog Post dedicated to welcoming YOU, the new sponsor, with link and button placement
The option to provide a discount code with readers -- This will be promoted via Twitter, Facebook and this blog at a minimum of five times a month.
The option to host a review and/or giveaway for readers of this blog
And, of course, your button/graphic will be displayed on the homepage of this blog for the term of the sponsorship agreement.

I will be using Passionfruit Ads on my blog. Easy for both of us! Simply log into the site and upload your information for it to be displayed on my blog.

25 Weeks

2012-05-29T07:00:00.000-04:00

25 Weeks!

I've passed "Viability Day" and that third trimester is just getting closer and closer! It's a little crazy to think about how time has flown so quickly.

*How far along?: 25 weeks!
*How big is baby?: A chunky cauliflower.
*Total Weight Gain/Loss: +24. Last time I updated I was up 21 pounds and I wrote the update at 23 weeks. This means in two weeks I've gained 3 months. Joy of joys. I'm really filling out here, eh?
*Maternity Clothes: As often as I can. My regular sized leggings are like "UGH Stop trying to fit in us!!"
*Stretch Marks: None that I can see! I need to be a little more religious about applying my lotion.
*Gender: A BOY.
*Movement: Some days this week were INSANE with movement. Like, he took my breath away with all the karate chopping.
*Sleep?: I've been doing well here. Sleeping lots and even taking naps. =]
*Best moment this week? Having a three day weekend -- a legit one, not one because I called in sick.
*Food cravings?: I grilled hamburgers this week and I thought they were the best thing on the world.
*What I miss: BEACH DAYS. Yes, we went to the beach yesterday... but I don't have a bathing suit that I feel good in... so I just like sit at the beach. Like a weirdo. I don't know if I should just get a regular sized tankini just so I have *something* for the summer.
*Symptoms: Luckily nothing too weird. I do find myself getting out of breath easily and twice this weekend I needed to like sit down because I felt like my heart was going to beat out of my chest. I'm sure this is normal and I'm not dying. Right?
*What I'm Looking Forward To: Putting together the nursery furniture! One day, we will do this.

*Thoughts: Baby Bash Invites go out this week! I'm hoping a good number of people can make it. =] I also spent an hour on the phone with my mom last night looking at Newborn Halloween Costumes. Really? Is this my life? I couldn't help myself. You get sucked into an ETSY time warp and all of a sudden it's 10 pm and you realized you didn't accomplish anything tonight.

My Journey Thus Far

Where I was...

Where I've Been...

I'm about 104 days away from my due date if you want to be specific. I just thought 100 days left sounded better. And, you never know, little Cannon could be EARLY. That shirt is holding up well. My tummy definitely is starting to peek out and I'm getting rounder. Before I had a lumpy tum tum I thought! My belly button was holding its ground and not poking out. Now... it's joining the rest of my body.

{Gosh PicMonkey makes some nice collages! The first one was done with Picnik and it obviously is not great quality!}

So... now what? I feel like I need to make some pregnancy related goals to stay on track... not that I'm good with keeping any of my goals, but hey, it's for good measure. It would be fabulous to have the "nursery" set up by the baby shower so we aren't just throwing more boxes and bags into a room.

1. Nursery furniture put together before June 30th
2. VACATION -- In the works. Heading to Key West for a weekend in TWO WEEKS. That sounds like we are leaving for two weeks. I wish. In two weeks, we will be going to Key West for a weekend. There. Better.
3. Don't give up on blogging.
4. Organize paperwork -- i.e., insurance documents, figure out where the tot is going on our insurance, where is our marriage license and my passport btw?, and for that matter, where are the dog registrations?!
5. Buy curtain rods for the nursery and our living room.

Sounds easy enough for the next upcoming weeks, eh?

Memorial Day Sales {Target Baby!}

2012-05-28T16:50:00.001-04:00

Target is my favorite. Though, it should really time its sales around when I get paid. That would be pretty fabulous. Anyway -- if you're on the hunt for a baby gift for someone (or hey, looking to buy something for us! I kid, I kid) -- this is a good week to browse through Target's website or in store. The baby sale is through June 2nd and TONS of items are marked down.

If you've seen this stuff cheaper anywhere else, let me know! I feel like Target is my "price guide" -- cheaper than Babies R Us but still can sometimes be pricier than other stores depending on the week. Also, if the stuff listed below is baby junk, let me know too. I value your opinions!

Baby Trend Expedition Jogger-Grey Mist

A jogging stroller for $80? That's pretty sweet. In fact, I registered for this guy. I already have a stroller with a cheapie travel system we have, but I figured this could be a good addition. Ya know - just in case I decide to go "jogging" with said infant.

Medela Pump In Style Advanced On-The-Go Tote Breastpump

This contraption is a million dollars. It's marked down a LOT this week. I have NO ONE to talk to about breastfeeding and returning to work, so if you've had to go through this please identify yourself so I can begin to harass you. ;) I am not even entirely sure I will get any sort of maternity leave so I need to figure out that whole situation pretty quickly! My mom formula fed and I'm pretty much the only pregnant gal I know that doesn't exist online.

Have you seen a boppy for $20 (or cheaper)? Even used boppy's at the children's consignment store are almost that price.

Dr. Brown's Newborn BPA-Free Feeding Gift Set

People said I should use these.

Those are the main items I saw that are cheap enough to make me cringe that I can't buy them right now!

Am I on the right track with my registry? What products worked for you?

What Memorial Day Sales have you seen?

100 Happies {1-20}

2012-05-27T11:58:00.002-04:00

I have had this "idea" that I probably stole from someone about identifying 100 things that make me happy. I'm going to break this down into 5 posts.

{A year or so ago, I wrote the author of The Happiness Project and she sent back this little note and "bookplate." She takes requests on her Facebook Page!}

Identify 100 Things That Make Me Happy

*Rules: Can't say "money" or individual people as that's not fair and I could list 100 people I know or like.

1. The beach

2. Sunsets

3. Long drives

4. Boat trips -- especially cruises

5. Fluffy dogs

6. Birthday cakes

7. Glowsticks

8. Snail Mail

9. Sharpies

10. Postcards

11. A really good coffee

12. A really delicious beer

13. McDonald's French Fries [so sue me!]

14. Mexican food

15. Not wearing shoes

16. Being at places where shoe wearing is optional -- i.e, the beach, grassy fields?

17. New books

18. Blogs

19. A fast internet connection

20. Coupons

---

Source: lifes-a-journal.com via Chelsey on Pinterest

"I Won't Give Up"

2012-05-25T13:30:00.000-04:00

I know this song is like old news now, but it still wins. So - enjoy my little emo Friday afternoon post. This song has been on repeat this week. It's been a weird few months. Sure, I know I'm pregnant and being emotional is part of the game ... however, things are certainly not easy. I feel like things will get easier as time goes on. At least I'm mildly optimistic about the future!

Source: izzygliori.tumblr.com via Krystal on Pinterest

"When I look into your eyes // It's like watching the night sky // Or a beautiful sunrise // There's so much they hold // And just like them old stars // I see that you've come so far // To be right where you are // How old is your soul?"

Source: google.ca via Jessie on Pinterest

Source: google.com via Shannon on Pinterest

"The story of the video is that we all have our stories. We all have out own version of suffering….and everybody has many things to not give up on." -- Jason Mraz

Source: tumblr.com via Danelle on Pinterest

Source: goodbyetoyesterday.me via <3 Jessica on Pinterest

Hey...It's OK...

2012-05-24T10:42:00.001-04:00

Hey... It's OK...

To go to the movies by yourself. On a Monday. At 2pm.

Source: google.com via Amy on Pinterest

To call in sick because you're in need of a mental health day.

Source: pajiba.com via Amelia on Pinterest

To buy $20 worth of concession stand food at the theater. For One.

Source: moviefone.com via Jessica on Pinterest

To eat said concession stand food leaving no crumb behind.

Source: google.com via Kristin on Pinterest

To cry incessantly during the movie. I thought What to Expect When You're Expecting was a COMEDY?! Why was I not laughing?

Source: movie87.com via Movie87 on Pinterest

To realize that even though things haven't been easy lately -- they could be a lot worse.

Source: moviesonclick.com via Will on Pinterest

Eating My Feelings {Pinterest}

2012-05-23T19:25:00.000-04:00

Since this week has pretty much both personally and professionally, I feel like becoming a binge eater. Everything on Pinterest is just SO yummy and everyone swears how "easy" or "fun" each recipe is. Either way, here's what I'm pinning this week...

Source: nothingbutcountry.com via Amy on Pinterest

Source: perthmedias.com via Krystal on Pinterest

Source: Uploaded by user via Carolyn on Pinterest

Source: jennysteffens.blogspot.com via Krystal on Pinterest

Source: skinnytaste.com via Krystal on Pinterest

Source: budgetsavvydiva.com via Krystal on Pinterest

Source: wholefoodsmarket.com via Allison on Pinterest

Source: loveandoliveoil.com via Krystal on Pinterest

Source: Uploaded by user via Heather | Mmm... is for on Pinterest

Ummm that's Nutella right there. Yum.

Source: bakersroyale.com via Krystal on Pinterest

Source: cookinglight.com via Cooking on Pinterest

Source: 52kitchenadventures.com via Krystal on Pinterest

Cupcake bouquet tutorial -- pretty neat.

Source: Uploaded by user via Stephanie on Pinterest

Some sort of cracker concoction with ranch dressing mix, red pepper flakes and other goodies.
Hello delicious.

Update Your Summer Wardrobe {Eshakti Giveaway!}

2012-05-21T10:56:00.001-04:00

Have you heard of eShakti? To get you up to speed, eShakti is a woman's clothing company that literally carries every size ever. From a size 0 to a 26W or anything in between (eShakti also does custom sizing and you just turn in your measurements), this line of clothes is literally for "every" woman.

They recently contacted me to talk about their spring and summer lines and to offer one of my readers ANYTHING from their site! Even custom sizing. Neato! Check out some of my favorites below:

Source: eshakti.com via eShakti on Pinterest

I love a good sundress but what eShakti also can offer you -- bridemaid's dresses! For real. Their styles are very classic and could be just what you're looking for if you're scouring for bridal party attire.

eShakti | Twitter | Facebook

Enter below for your chance to win any item from eShakti. *Note, click "Read More" or the title of this blog post for Rafflecopter to load.*

*I received no compensation for this post.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Beers I Miss

2012-05-19T12:30:00.000-04:00

{This is one of those gazillion draft posts that I never hit publish on. Now seems like a good time... the pregnant gal talking about her favorite beers! Ha! Well, here are some beers that I've been craving...they're all on my list of THINGS TO BUY after September 9th!}

1. Blue Moon
2. Shock Top

3. Michelob Ultra flavors. My favorite is the Dragon Berry Peach kind, with the Pomegrante a close second. They are very light and easy to drink. The peach one is kind of hard to find, but I have found it at Sweetbay’s.

4. I am was very lucky to live near a local brewery that makes my ABSOLUTE favorite beer. It is an Apricot Wheat Ale and it’s delicious. This what the brewery looks like—the Dunedin Brewery:

And this is the brew! It’s amazing and fruity but not sweet. It’s great!

I, of course, can't forget my love for cider. Specifically Woodchuck Pear, Magner's, Strongbow, Woodchuck Summer... I could go on.

Happy Weekend to all of those that can have a little drinky drink. ;)

Fill in the Blank Friday: Let's Celebrate!

2012-05-18T11:13:00.006-04:00

1. Something that is very near and dear to my heart is, my future. I can't stop ~~thinking~~ obsessing over it. Am I in the right career? [No.] What am I supposed to be doing? Can I just be a "mom?"

2. Every day is good cause to celebrate. When I was reading The Happiness Project, that was one thing I remember her writing--taking time to celebrate. Make every special event...special. She said something about maximizing the joy in everyday life events.

3. The most fun I ever had is hard to pinpoint. We have had A LOT of fun. I could say running around Honduras on our honeymoon, filming a silly reality show, drinking too much and dancing around silly at techno shows... there's just a lot of options I could put here!

4. True friends are always there to pick up where you left off. Distance and time is of no importance. A true friend will slip right back into comfortable conversation and never make you feel let down.

5. Something that makes me terribly happy is the future. I can't believe we will be parents. I always wanted to be a mom one day and that day is coming up so soon.

6. A good way to spend a sunny day is with a frozen fruity alcoholic beverage pool or ocean side!

7. My favorite celebratory food is a sweet cupcake...paired with a nice glass of champagne. Can we make this happen after September 9th? A cupcake and champagne party? :)

Source: browneyedbellejulie.tumblr.com via Kaitlin on Pinterest

The Cheapest Way to Brighten Someone's Day

2012-05-18T10:00:00.000-04:00

{I wrote this FOREVER ago for someone whose blog has mysteriously disappeared. In an effort to clean out my draft posts and publish previous thing I've written, I've reworked this blog post a bit and decided to re-post! I added more information and changed some of the dates.}

The Cheapest Way to Brighten Someone's Day

It reminded me that the cheapest way to brighten someone's day is with a letter. Stamps are what, 44 cents? Postcards cost just 29 cents to send. Can you think of a better "surprise" than a handwritten note in your mailbox?

Source: etsy.com via Callie on Pinterest

I've written both on my blog and on others' about swapping packages and pen palling. While I do not dedicate as much of my time to these activities as I'd like, I wanted to share how easy it is to make someone smile. How sending a package can turn someone's day around.

The best package I received was from Jagged Little Life. I won a giveaway for a mix Christmas CD but life got in the way and I received it late. No biggie. I didn't hold it against her. However, after the holidays calmed down... she surprised me with TWO mix CDs, a package of popcorn, nail polish, a journal, and other random goodies. She wrote in the notebook: "Pay it forward." Someone has surprised her with something awesome and she wanted to carry on the good karma and picked me to surprise. I legitimately was surprised and I felt so special.

How often do strangers send you packages?

It is always on my To Do List to send someone something at least once a week. ~~This week~~ Several months ago, I sent Ashley at Ashley's Carnival Ride the most ridiculous CD ever. She posted about her love for California Dreams and just her luck -- I had the CD sitting on my bookshelf collecting dust. It probably hasn't been listened to since 1998. I wrote a note along with the CD and sent it on its way. It might sound silly, but I think the smallest act of kindness can go a long way.

To get started - find yourself some cute stationary (Target has the best in their $1 section or splurge on the options I posted below), print some address labels, and grab some awesome pens (Sharpie pens in various colors are my favorite!).

Some fun stationary that will inspire you to use it:

Kate Spade. How I love thee.
{When you sign up to join her newsletter, you'll get a 15% off code! This is totally helpful if you want anything Kate Spade!}

Source: katespade.com via Krystal on Pinterest

Cute notecards.

Source: katespade.com via Krystal on Pinterest

Love these journals.
{Idea: Start a journal with someone across the country. Write a letter on a page, mail it to your friend for her to write back in the journal! See how long you can carry this on for. :)}

Vera Bradley also has cute options:

Source: verabradley.com via Krystal on Pinterest

Source: etsy.com via Emily on Pinterest

Source: escarabajosbichosymariposas.files.wordpress.com via Stef on Pinterest

Even fellow blogger Amy has her own ETSY stationary shop!

Source: etsy.com via Krystal on Pinterest

Interested in snail mail? Check out these sites and become a member.
Swap-bot: Sending crafty packages or postcards to strangers. People are rated so you aren't sending things to creepers.
Postcrossing: Send a postcard to someone from another country. I get the best postcards from China (They take forever to arrive though!) and European countries.

Cleanin' Out My Drafts: Survey #1

2012-05-17T20:08:00.002-04:00

Do you know that I have over 50 draft posts? Just kind of hanging out...waiting for me to finally hit publish. I suppose it's time to do a Blog Clean Up Post-a-thon! Join me. What's in your drafts? Go on and publish it!

Stolen from the lovely Ashlee. You should check out her blog. Perhaps if enough of us wander over that way she will give her dedicated readers an update!

1) Favorite Color:Green...but I have a soft spot for aqua/turquoise.

Source: etsy.com via ruthie on Pinterest

Source: squidoo.com via ruthie on Pinterest

2) Favorite Animal: I just love dogs.

Source: shine.yahoo.com via Anne-Marie on Pinterest

Chow puppies are the cutest.

Source: maggiewatts.tumblr.com via Kelly on Pinterest

3) Favorite Number: 4?
4) Favorite (non-adult) drink: I've been drinking a lot of chocolate milk lately.
5) Facebook or Twitter? So much more interaction is on Twitter. I like posting short little updates too. Facebook NEVER loads on my phone either so it's hard for me to stay connected on The Book.
6) Passion: When I find it, I'll let you know.
7) Giving or receiving presents? Both. I do love wrapping presents though!

Source: fancyhouseroad.com via Dipika on Pinterest

8) Favorite Pattern:At the moment, I suppose chevron.

Source: bbc.co.uk via neely on Pinterest

9) Favorite Day: SATURDAYS.
10) Favorite Flower: Tulips.

Source: fromyouflowers.com via Janet on Pinterest

2012 Goals?

2012-05-17T07:30:00.000-04:00

I had always done monthly goals but those kind of flew far, far away when this year began. Between finding out we were expecting a new member of our family to being busy with our jobs, my goals sort of slipped away. I was going through my emails a few days ago and found that I had quickly made a list of things to do in the beginning of 2012. Just for my own personal record, here's what I've managed to accomplish...

Early 2012 Goals

By the end of summer, get my wedding dress cleaned. Fail. I still have a few months before this becomes a major fail.

Finish my Listography book. Fail. I've completed two pages or so.

Start and finish "Wreck This Journal" and mail to Jen. Fail. Jen, are we even STILL doing this?!

Basically, the premise of the book is to destroy it and each page has instructions for things to do. Toward the end of the book, it says to mail it off to a friend. Jen & I both own this book so we thought it would be fun to destroy our own copy and swap with the other!

Organize all stationary stuff. I'm going to say WIN on this. I got rid of a lot of stuff. I still have to organize it, but I've made a LOT of progress.

~~Ikea organization things.~~ Not even an issue anymore. With the baby coming, these aren't necessary.

Bookshelves. WIN. I got a tall bookcase and stacked it high with my books, boxes, stationary, etc.

Read books and return to library. Win because I did finish all 7 books I checked out from the library in January... but fail because I turned them in late and owe them like $20.

Do Taxes. Win. Done forever ago.

Student loans. Win. I contacted them to consolidate, change my monthly payments, and basically just have them leave me alone now! I'm all current now.

It's nice to know that I'm not a complete personal goal failure! Now... time to go through those baby goals...

Dove® Clear Tone Anti-Perspirant/Deodorant Giveaway!

2012-05-17T06:00:00.000-04:00

Come one, come all. Free deodorant is up for grabs. ;)

Dove is launching a new type of anti-perspirant/deodorant that has a specific purpose. Besides keeping you so fresh and so clean, it is the first and only U.S. deodorant designed to reduce red and dark marks and even skin tone. Thanks to Calendula, Sunflower Seed Extracts and unique Dove® moisturizers that help accelerate the natural skin renewal process, this deodorant promises to keep your underarm area smooth and not red/dark.

Did you know?

Thirty two million women in the U.S. reportedly experience underarm red and dark marks. The reason? We tend to neglect moisturizing this part of our body, which is an important step that reduces the dryness and irritation caused by shaving.

All Dove® Anti-Perspirant/Deodorant products, including Clear Tone, promise:

24-hour odor & wetness protection
Care for delicate underarm skin with Dove® ¼ moisturizers™
Alleviate the formation of white marks on clothing
Dermatologist-tested

Dove® Clear Tone is available on shelves this month in the following formulas:

Skin Renew Invisible Solid – Light floral notes of violet, lilac and rose with vanilla musk
Sheer Touch Invisible Solid – Light citrus notes with hints of almond and coconut milk
Clinical Protection Renew – Offers prescription strength wetness protection with the maximum level of active ingredients (20%) available without a prescription.

Clinical versions of deodorant are always my favorite. I just like knowing that they are the strongest product out there.

I've been using this product for a few weeks now and am happy to report that it hasn't failed me yet. Want to try it yourself? Enter the giveaway below!

*To see the Rafflecopter widget, please click either "Read More" or the title of this blog post.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

*I received samples of the product to review. No other compensation was received.

Sparkles {Mont Bleu Company}

2012-05-16T19:45:00.004-04:00

I’m a total sucker for anything sparkly. Slap some rhinestones on, well…anything, and I love it.

Mont Bleu is a European company that specializes in luxury crystal glass nail files, jewelry, beauty accessories, gifts and souvenirs. I have learned that they are one of the world's top suppliers of crystal glass nail files. I had never heard of a glass nail file—sounds dangerous—but they’re gorgeous.

A fellow blogger, Cami, actually got to review their nail files and seemed pretty pleased!

Besides the nail files, they have a wide variety of items that are “Crystallized!” Sign me up.

Their products include:

Crystal glass nail files.
Classic beauty tools that have been styled with some extra sparkle! Think tweezers, scissors, hair brushes and compact mirrors.
Jewelry that includes earrings, rings, bracelets and pendants.

Some of my favorite items that Mont Bleu is touting are their gifts and souvenirs. I *love* their business card holders, key chains, and is that a sparkly USB drive?

Business card holder with Swarovski crystals

An extra bonus is that Mont Bleu can crystallize any of their products with your logo…pretty neat giveaway for your company, eh?

My first thought was that some of those sparkly items would make a perfect addition to a Bridemaid’s gift! What do you think?

*This is a sponsored post.

My Mommy To Be Pictures

2012-05-15T08:30:00.002-04:00

I had purchased a Groupon a little while ago for a photo shoot. You never know when you're going to be in need of pretty pictures! ;) Well, in my case, since it expired in April... I had to take them now! The photographer was great and honored my Groupon last weekend! The husband got called into work [lame!} but I made the best of it. In fact, when was the last time I can say I took pictures by myself? Um, never! Even my wedding pictures -- we didn't take too many on my own.

Here are a few from the shoot! We took them in Downtown Naples at Cambrier Park. Loren De Marco was the photographer and she takes pictures in Southwest Florida and Pittsburgh, PA! I definitely recommend her. She made me look good.

I'm totally going to frame the last one for the nursery.

I hope to take more pictures once I'm gigantic, but these were just fun pictures for me. I loved them and had a great time. We took them Saturday and these were ready to go last night! Talk about a fast turnaround time. :)

*All these pictures belong to her and all that copyright jazz. I'm pretty sure you don't want to steal photos of me anyway, but just had to throw that out there.

A Very Special Mother's Day

2012-05-14T12:48:00.003-04:00

So... technically I'm not really a mom... but technically I am, right? Either way, I was pleasantly surprised that I received some goodies yesterday!

I never know what to expect with my husband. Some days he surprises me! Yesterday was no exception. I thought it was very sweet that he remembered one cheesy thing that I really wanted:

Easy Feet and a sparkly bracelet. Yes, go on and laugh about the Easy Feet... but I REALLY wanted one! I already used it and it tickled my feet so bad! LOL It was funny. I'm way into it.

An adorable card from the dogs

My mom surprised me with some goods too, I wasn't expecting that!

Go Rays! Love this shirt.

We spent Mother's Day at the beach hopping around from bar to bar with his parents and my mom. It was a fun day, the weather was hot but not unbearable, and there was a pretty nice view.

Why those tan lines are ridiculous.
23 Weeks!

*How far along?: 23 weeks!
*How big is baby?: A grapefruit.
*Total Weight Gain/Loss: +21
*Maternity Clothes: Almost everything. Thanks to my mom for buying me some larger sized maternity clothes!
*Stretch Marks: None that I can see!
*Gender: A BOY.
*Movement: Here and there.
*Sleep?: Lots of it.
*Best moment this week? My first "Mother's Day"
*Food cravings?: SLURPEES. I have had three in the past three days!
*What I miss: Drinking...sigh.
*Symptoms: Nothing crazy this week -- just sleepy. It's very hard for me to get up in the mornings.
*What I'm Looking Forward To: Moving my mom into her new apartment this weekend, putting together the nursery furniture.

*Thoughts: I just want to spend tonight tweaking my registry! Is that so bad?

Another Old Navy & Crowdtap Shopping Day!

2012-05-12T07:22:00.001-04:00

I love Crowdtap. And Old Navy. I was fortunate enough to be selected to participate in Old Navy's "Get Stoked for Summer with Old Navy Shorts" event. Basically, Crowdtap is a website where you take surveys and participate in discussions. Every so often you can qualify for either a product testing or a house party! I have received free coats, sweaters, khakis and accessories for playing around on Crowdtap -- and you can too! Anyway, this time around I received a pair of shorts. Score.

I went to the Old Navy in Tampa and their selection and layout was MUCH better than my local store in Southwest Florida. Anyway -- there were shorts EVERYWHERE.

Shorts.

More shorts.

Even MORE shorts!

And... the WALL of shorts. What was neat was that the shorts were arranged by length which is SO very important. 3", 5" and Bermudas are all options.

Now -- this Old Navy was so awesome that it had a maternity section... with... you guessed it, shorts!

My coupon worked for maternity shorts as well so I definitely used it toward them. These will come in handy during the summer!

Source: oldnavy.gap.com via Krystal on Pinterest

The pair I picked. Classic, comfortable, and free. :)

Seriously. Go join. Crowdtap is not a scam and totally rules. I've been able to participate in two Old Navy events and received free clothes to test out. Totally worth the effort in joining! :)

*I was selected to receive some free Old Navy from Crowdtap. No other compensation was received!

Weekend In Tampa

2012-05-11T06:58:00.000-04:00

It was such a refreshing weekend back in Tampa. My feet were mad at me, my scalp is sunburned, but all in all -- it was a great time catching up with old friends. When we were moving down here, the drive was consistently around 3 hours.... but by myself without large items in my trunk, I made it there in two. That's not bad! I have no more excuses for why I can't visit more frequently. ;)

When I first pulled into town, I was on a MISSION. You see, the Old Navy in Tampa is one of the few that has maternity items in the store! I was dying for a maxi dress. I found one, hooray, and can't wait to wear it for our pictures that we are taking tomorrow. After indulging myself in some maternity wear, I met up with friends at a bar I used to love in the Hyde Park area. We were scoping out the scene as it is the location of our Co-ed Baby BASH. There's a nice large shaded patio, lots of tables, bars, and pizza. That's all that matters. Win.

We had cupcakes across the street (great idea!) and I picked the Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough.

Yes, I definitely devoured it. I might not be able to drink... but food... why yes.

Next up was a spot I hadn't visited before -- The Lodge. We claimed a large corner booth and got to eating, drinking and talking.

After a day running around Hyde Park, it was time for the "main reason" of this trip! One of my oldest friends is now, apparently, a doctor. Why are we old? Anyway, he is moving for his residency soon so there was a graduation party going on for him at a family member's house...complete with a taco bar. Cinco de Mayo was in full effect as I had been craving tacos!

Now... what's a preggo to do at 10pm on a Saturday night? Well, I couldn't just go to SLEEP that would be boring. I somehow found some energy and headed to Ybor City -- one of my old haunts. An Irish bar I used to love recently reopened in a new location so we headed there for two hours. Yes, an Irish bar on Cinco de Mayo... but it was still a blast.

Jen! She let me sleep on her couch.

There were glow sticks...

Little people...

New doctors...

Unusual beers... fire crotch?

and a very, sleepy pregnant girl. We ran through the McDonald's drive thru at 3 am (it wouldn't be a night out in Ybor with that) and I passed OUT. How I was awake for almost 24 hours is a mystery and a miracle.

Sunday morning we were up early as we had a food festival complete with concert to go to! Jen is a ridiculous Dashboard Confessional fan and well, I used to be. I sort of fell off the Chris Carabba wagon two albums ago. But, at one point he was my favorite so I knew we had to go!

It was seriously the hottest day in recent memory and I thought for sure I was going to die out there. I toughed it out with 30 bottles of water and some food, and then we were ready for the show!

The best part was that it was a solo acoustic show (who needs the band anyway?!) and as it used to be back in the day -- everyone sang along loudly. Perhaps the most hilarious part was that Chris himself was snickering during songs. I know he wanted to laugh. The lyrics that at one point "defined my youth" are certainly cheesy and ridiculous to me now. Even the guy who wrote them thought so too.

Sweaty, sunburned, swollen!

So, yes, I survived a weekend solo in Tampa. I ended up swollen, exhausted, and broke but I must do it again soon! Just, ya know, minus the outdoor concert. Yowza!

22 Weeks

2012-05-10T12:16:00.003-04:00

*How far along?: 22 weeks!
*How big is baby?: A plump papaya.
*Total Weight Gain/Loss: Okay, the official word so far... +21. I gained 6 pounds last month. I'm going to blame it on the McDonald's. ;D
*Maternity Clothes: Almost everything. I'm in regular leggings today and they just aren't stretching enough. Argh!
*Stretch Marks: None that I can see!
*Gender: A BOY. Get ready to meet Cannon Theodore!
*Movement: LOTS. He is doing back flips always.
*Sleep?: Pretty normal but I have been waking up when he karate chops me or if I have to go to the bathroom. I've been sleeping 9 hours religiously. That's nice.
*Best moment this week? Visiting my friends in Tampa. It was a nice road trip but left me with SWOLLEN ankles. Fo' serious.
*Food cravings?: Nothing really. I told my husband this last night -- I feel like my cravings have stopped. A few weeks ago I would kill you for a taco, but now I'm just up for eating whatever. Though... I did ~~need~~ want ice cream last night. Luckily we had some in the fridge.
*What I miss: Being able to stay up late and walk around without disappearing ankles.
*Symptoms: SWELLING. I didn't even do TOO much activity this weekend. Sure, I stayed up to 3 a.m. like the good ol' days. I walked around Hyde Park. I went to a concert in the sun all day Sunday. But, it wasn't anything CRAZY. I didn't walk MILES. Either way, my knees and ankles were not my best friends and I spend Sunday night and all of Monday wondering if my ankles would ever return.
*What I'm Looking Forward To: My mom is moving down to Ft Myers next weekend! That's pretty crazy. We are also taking some pictures on Saturday... I don't want to call them "maternity" even though I guess they are...technically. I had a Groupon for a photo shoot but it expires soon so I figured now would be as good a time as any.
*Thoughts: I had a doctor's appointment this week (hence the accurate weight gain update!) and found out that right now he is breech. She said she expects him to turn (we have a long ways to go, right?!), but I just was like "oh, okay." I didn't know what to say! Google tells me that most babies are breech at this point and will almost always turn. Besides that, she said I should watch my salt because it's too early for me to be so swollen! Yikes! I need to take it easy. Hey, me, relax? Sounds great!

Home

2012-05-07T10:11:00.003-04:00

I spent the weekend back home visiting friends while the husband had to stay behind and work. I had a great weekend but seeing this on his Facebook made me so ready to be home!

"When the wife is away, the boys sleep until 2 in the afternoon!" I'm totally sunburnt, my ankles have disappered due to swelling, and I'm exhausted. I had a BLAST catching up with everyone but I'm glad to be back. I can't wait to share my weekend adventures back in Tampa. It was a lot of excitement for this pregnant girl.

Fill in the Blank Friday

2012-05-04T21:50:00.000-04:00

1. My bedtime routine includes taking out my contacts, popping my prenatal vitamins, pouring a big glass of ice water, and laying in bed while reading twitter.

2. I am feeling excited about the upcoming weeks. We have a lot to get done and I have to figure out what my plan is for after the baby.

3. I can't stand my job right now because I know I could be doing so much more with my Master's Degree.

4. My idea of relaxation would be a delicious coffee or rum runner [depending on time of day of course!)], hanging out by the pool or the beach, listening to music...

5. If I had an extra $50, I would buy something for the baby. Of course.

6. The best thing about a bloggy friend is they care about what nail polish you just bought, what vacation you're pretending to plan, and share more excitement over your life accomplishments than some in real life friends! ;)

7. A recipe I've been dying to try is see below.

Source: joyful-mommas-kitchen.blogspot.com via Krystal on Pinterest

White Chicken Enchiladas.

Source: supperforasteal.com via Krystal on Pinterest

Roasted Shrimp with Tomatoes and Feta

Source: nowoodenspoons.blogspot.com via Krystal on Pinterest

Bang bang shrimp tacos! Yum!