Maryland Pink and Green

Not Your Grandma's Water Aerobics

2013-06-20T07:19:00.000-04:00

It must be the stress of the end of the school year or wedding planning, but my workout routine has gone downhill in the past month or so! When I saw this flyer for a Deep Water Workout, I thought that it sounded like the perfect thing for me.

On Monday before the first class, I was nervous and excited. With a floatation belt around my waist, I bravely stepped into the freezing cold water. Upon hearing my whining, the instructor snapped that "I wouldn't be cold for long!" And she was right!

If you've never tried a Deep Water Workout, you're in for a surprise. It's not your grandma's water aerobics. It is truly a great workout. In no time at all, we were running underwater, doing jumping jacks, lunges, and more, and no, I was not cold anymore.

The best part of all is that I wasn't sweating and no one could see what I was doing because we were all underwater. I felt confident about what I was doing.

Even though it was my first workout in about a month, I didn't feel sore, and it was a great experience. It was just what I needed to get myself into gear.

Have you tried running in the water or water fitness? What did you think?

Nautical Wedding Place Cards

2013-06-13T08:31:00.002-04:00

Guests at our wedding on Saturday will find their place in a creative and fun way. At a wedding, it's the little details that make guests feel special and I knew that I wanted to incorporate the nautical theme with navy and pink in every aspect of the wedding celebration.

The thick, layered card stock incorporates an pink anchor and navy. We're offering a selection of meal choices including Crab Cakes, Filet Mignon, Crab Stuffed Shrimp, and Chicken Chesapeake. Each guest's meal is clearly identified on the place card to help the wait staff. I tied a starfish to each card with a watermelon pink ribbon.

The nautical place cards are displayed in a faux leather tray that is filled with sand.

On the Wait List

2013-06-12T13:15:00.000-04:00

First, let me tell you that I'm not very good at waiting. I have a great deal of patience with people, especially my children, but put me in a line, and it makes me squirm.

After many, many months of hearing wonderful things about Birchbox, I decided to sign up for a subscription. And now I'm on the waitlist.

Hopefully the wait will be short and I'll soon be receiving a fabulous box of goodies every month for only $10 including shipping.

So how does one manage what could turn out to be a one month wait? For starters, I'll pass the time by admiring practically everything on Birchbox's website and shopping. Some of the brands are new to me while I see many of my favorites are included.

What are my top picks from Birchbox right now? Fingers crossed that I'll open a box to find some of these in the near future.

twistband Birchbox Nautical Hair Ties

tili Bags Large

Elizabeth McKay Pink Elephant Key Chain

Do you subscribe to Birchbox? Please leave a comment to share some of the fun items that you have received in your monthly box. I'd love to hear your feedback and opinion!

Soon To Be Monogram

2013-06-11T08:54:00.000-04:00

In just 3 days, not counting today, I'll have a new monogram! Since I monogram almost everything that is not moving, I'm getting started on some must have monograms for my new name.

Here's what I have so far...

Southern Nest's wooden monograms are incredibly high quality! This little beauty will be officially unveiled at the wedding. Check out a future post to see how I use it.

My sweet blog friend Courtney sent this adorable bride insulated tumbler to me. I'm going to sip some tea from it on Saturday as I'm getting ready for the ceremony. I love the pink bow.

Monogram necklaces match everything and can be worn every day! This beautiful necklace is from my friends at Bellevue Newport.

By the way, if anyone has the monogram bBl, let me know! I have oodles of goodies that are going to need a new home.

Have a wonderful day!

Golf In Lilly

2013-06-10T06:13:00.001-04:00

Lilly Pulitzer is always appropriate no matter what you're doing or where you are! Recently, I was thrilled to learn about Morgan Pressel's partnership with Lilly Pulitzer. If I ever decide to work on my golf game, I can do it in style, like Morgan does.

This weekend, I caught a glimpse of her wearing the adorable Buttercup Shorts.

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Here's another gorgeous and colorful choice.

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She's wearing one of my favorite prints here at the Kraft Nabisco Championship.

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Do you wear Lilly Pulitzer no matter what you're doing?

Blog Sale!

2013-06-09T08:30:00.002-04:00

Here's the latest installment of closet cleaning in my pink and green world. The prices include shipping and paypal fees. Leave a comment or send me a message at blbrodger1 at Hotmail dot com.

1. ~~Lilly Pulitzer Jubilee Dress, Size 6. $65.~~ SOLD!

2. NWT Kate Spade Signature Polo, size Small. Spade logo at hem. $30.

3. NWT Elizabeth McKay Annapolis Polo dress, Aqua, size Small. $65.

4. Lilly Pulitzer brown silk blouse, size Small. $35.

5. Lilly Pulitzer Cormick dress, size 4. $40.

6. ~~Lilly Pulitzer Sandpiper dress, Jugs Print, Very rare! Size 4. $150.~~ Sold!

~~7. Lilly Pulitzer Garnet Hill Shower Curtain. This listing is for the turquoise blue curtain. $25.~~ SOLD!

8. ~~Lilly Pulitzer Garnet Hill Trel-A-Lilly Standard Sham. $15.~~ SOLD!

9. ~~NWT Lilly Pulitzer Rivia Flounce Top, True Navy, Size Small. $30.~~ SOLD!

10. ~~Pink Top, $15~~ SOLD!

11. ~~Lilly Pulitzer silk top, Swingers print. Size XS. $75.~~ Sold!

12. ~~Lilly Pulitzer tunic dress, Checkin In print. Size 6. $80.~~ Sold!

Lilly Pulitzer Wedding Table Overlays

2013-06-07T06:12:00.004-04:00

Today I have another glimpse of my wedding plans. Of course I had to incorporate some touches of Lilly Pulitzer in this special day.

The choices for table linens are endless, but I had my heart set on Lilly Pulitzer prints. The "Fallin In Love" print is a perfect choice. The blue and white nautical theme blends perfectly with my wedding ideas; even the name is just right.

To make my table cloth dreams come true, I purchased duvet covers from Garnet Hill in the Fallin In Love print.

Here is one of the custom made table overlays trimmed in navy blue grosgrain ribbon. They're going to look fabulous with the navy pintuck tablecloths!

Nautical Wedding Guest Book

2013-06-06T07:14:00.001-04:00

I'm working on the final details and preparations for the wedding. Last night, I made the guest book using grosgrain ribbon and a starfish detail.

DIY is always fun for me. Truly I feel like I am superwoman behind the handle of a glue gun. Give me a glue gun and I'm invincible! Ha!

First, I cut strips of ribbon to plan the layout and design of the book. I played with the colors and layout until it was perfect. Then I used hot glue to attach the grosgrain ribbon to a plain guest book I purchased at Michael's. The starfish, measuring about 4 inches in diameter, is a final touch! Perfect.

Shabby Apple Giveaway

2013-06-05T18:04:00.001-04:00

Sometimes I think that I should have been born in a different decade. Every time I watch a classic movie, I'm drawn to the classic styles that the beautiful actresses of previous decades wear. It's often difficult to find classic clothing with a vintage feel.

Shabby Apple has fabulous vintage clothing. The choices for classic dresses, tops, skirts, and more are endless on their website.

Here are a few of my favorites:

The Admiral is a fun nautical choice.

At First Sight in pretty purple has a pretty ruffled collar and gathered waist.

Elbow length sleeves and an elegant boat neck make the Cut the Cake sheath dress a winner.

Ever After is a beautiful a-line dress that features a side zipper.

Snapdragon is perfect for everything from running errands to a delightful afternoon tea.

Shabby Apple is offering a fantastic giveaway opportunity for Maryland Pink and Green readers and there are many ways to enter to win. One lucky winner (U.S. Residents only, please) will win their choice of dress from the following options:

Snapdragon, Heart of Me, Dressage, Grand National, Hackney, Captain, Admiral, Cut the Cake, At Last, At First Sight, My Vow to You, Maid of Honor, Together Forever, Ever After, Save the Date, Moon River, Ski Bop, Some Like it Hot, Tiber

Use the Rafflecopter widget to enter.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Flash Sales for Kids!

2013-05-30T12:01:00.000-04:00

Every day when the clock strikes 11 in the morning, I browse my favorite sample sale sites. Usually I find amazing items for home, for my wardrobe, and even some great items for my pantry. Here's some great news for you! Now you can shop for your favorite child at One Kings Lane's Day of Kids sales!

Here are some of my favorites to beat boredom during summer vacation...

Day of Kids Cool Beans Sale at One Kings Lane Lounge in style with beanbags, poufs, and chairs! I'm partial to the pink chevron ottoman.

Day of Kids Sous Chef Sale at One Kings Lane Your budding chef will love the assortment of aprons, cake pans, and accessories! I adore the purple cupcake liners.

Day of Kids Get Outside Sale at One Kings Lane
Whether your child is an adventurous camper or a laid-back lounger, this selection of toys, games, and furniture is made for fun in the sun. What's more elegant than an afternoon of ladybug croquet in the backyard?

Day of Kids The Places They'll Go Sale at One Kings Lane
From school days to trips in the car to family vacations, make sure your young ones are packed and prepared for meals and snacks on the go with this collection of backpacks, lunch bags, snack containers, travel cups, and portable place mats.

Day of Kids Bookworms Sale at One Kings Lane
Open your little ones up to a new world of imagination and play with this collection of children's library essentials. These volumes will delight kids (and plenty of adults) for years to come.

Day of Kids Great Indoors Sale at One Kings Lane
If you and the little ones are rained out, catching shade, or simply feel like staying in, these timeless toys, puzzles, and play sets are fail-safe ways to have fun.

Milly for Banana Republic Launch

2013-05-30T08:35:00.000-04:00

Today the Milly for Banana Republic Collection launches. The limited edition collection is "inspired by summertime in the Hamptons." Milly is one of my favorite brands and I love the modern look of this new collection. The collaboration between Milly and Banana Republic offers fashionistas pieces that reflect effortless summer dressing that is chic and easy to wear.

Here are some of my top picks from the new collection!

The Milly Collection Medallion Print Dress is chic and comfortable, perfect for everything from shopping to an evening soiree! This print is also available on a tunic. I may have to break my one print rule with this one.

The navy Elephant Print Shorts are gorgeous. I'm a sucker for anything with elephants and the price point is very good.

The Roll Sleeve Top in coral is so versatile and pretty. Pair this blouse with everything from jeans to shorts and look polished and modern.

What are your favorite pieces? What collaboration would you like to see in the future?

Pink Chocolate Covered Oreos (and a surprise!)

2013-05-29T09:05:00.003-04:00

Nothing is sweeter than chocolate, especially when it's a pretty shade of pink. I'm planning a candy buffet for my wedding and am going to include chocolate covered Oreos. Recently, I spent an afternoon making about 60 of these beauties and have some fool proof tips to help you make your own treats.

Since I needed to make a lot of Oreos, I used several Oreo cookie molds that I purchased on Amazon to help the process move a little bit faster. In the past, I've melted the chocolate wafers in the microwave or double boiler, but found the Wilton Chocolate Pro Electric Melting Pot to be a miracle for making candy and melting chocolate. It melts quickly and evenly and has a "keep warm" feature that makes life easy! Double Stuf Oreos are such a fun treat, too!

After the chocolate melted, I used a spoon to fill each space of the chocolate mold about 1/3 full.

Place an Oreo in each space and cover the remaining space entirely with melted chocolate.

Make sure that there are no bubbles or empty spaces in the candy mold by gently tapping it on the counter. I also used a spatula to remove any excess chocolate and make sure that the bottom of the chocolate was even and flat.

Place the chocolate mold in the refrigerator for about 10 minutes. The cookies pop right out of the mold easily! If you're wondering how much chocolate to buy, a bag of chocolate wafers from the local craft store makes about a dozen Double Stuf chocolate covered Oreos. The process to make about 60 Oreos took about 2 hours with cooling time included.

And in other exciting news, I'm hosting a giveaway on my Facebook page for Maryland Pink and Green fans. Visit my page to enter to win a chevron printed dress! So pretty and perfect for your summer wardrobe.

Top 5 Tunics for Summer

2013-05-24T14:27:00.002-04:00

The tunic is probably the most perfect garment ever created. Although I'm partial to summer linen tunics, they're fun to wear all year in a myriad of pretty fabrics including cotton and silk. At 5'4" on a good day, I'm also able to pull of many tunic styles as little mini-dresses. Another one of my favorite looks for a tunic is to pair it with white jeans.

Tunics seem to camouflage any figure flaws around the tummy and are appropriate in almost any setting from pool to party.

So get ready to channel your inner Talitha Getty...

Here are my top 5 picks for summer tunics.

Guru's Palm Beach Linen Tunic is available as a dress or traditional tunic. The orange linen fabric is outlined with bright pink and white piping. Surprisingly, this fabulous tunic is machine washable!

Devon Baer's Ginger Blouse is a refreshing twist on the traditional tunic. I love the stand up ruffle collar and side vents.

The Ricky Rack Tunic from Gretchen Scott has pretty ric rac detail at the neckline, side vents, and cuffs. So pretty in navy.

Since I am fairly petite, sometimes traditional tunics seem to overwhelm my frame. The Virginia Tunic from Jules Reid in Sea Green Cotton hits just at the hip and is incredibly flattering. I love to wear my Jules Reid tunics with jeans! Very Palm Beach chic.

Of course, I couldn't make a list of my favorite tunics without including one of the season's best choices from Lilly Pulitzer. The Sarasota Tunic is a perfect choice for any occasion. The mandarin collar and pintuck details make this a winner.

Which of my top 5 tunic picks do you like the most?

Shopping Guide
Guru, Devon Baer, Gretchen Scott, Jules Reid, Lilly Pulitzer

Weekend at The Homestead

2013-05-22T06:00:00.000-04:00

Recently, four of us spent the weekend at The Homestead in Hot Springs, Virginia and it was fabulous!

The rooms all seemed to be a little bit unique. The decor is gorgeous and I never wanted to leave! I love the blue and white striped wallpaper and hydrangea curtains. Our room had a large walk in closet, sitting area, and a fireplace.

Every little detail is perfect...down to the embroidered pillow.

The history tour offers an interesting behind the scenes glimpse of the entire resort. Here are some of my favorite stops along the tour.

On Saturday night, we enjoyed a delicious dinner in the main dining room. The atmosphere was incredible, with a gorgeous setting and live music. We even stepped out onto the dance floor a few times!

The weekend was packed with activities and fun! Stay tuned for more details about our adventure!

Elegant Elephants

2013-05-21T06:23:00.003-04:00

Show me anything with an elephant motif and I'm sure to fall in love!

Even though I'm counting down the days until the end of school, there's one thing that's making me wish it was already time to shop for back to school.

Lilly Pulitzer stationery and goodies from Lifeguard Press...

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Lately, a lot of my money has been going into decorating the new house. Wouldn't these pillows be adorable? I found the Valentina Ramos Aaron Elephant Throw Pillow on Joss and Main.

It started with the Red Elephant Elizabeth Blouse. Then I moved on to the Black Elephant Tie Blouse for fall. This spring, I'm loving the Lola Dress from Elizabeth McKay. The pretty blue elephants on a silk and cotton blend are so chic!

A pachyderm for your Planter's Punch! That's how C. Wonder describes these delightful Elephant Drink Stirrers. They're perfect for your summer parties.

What fun elephant items have you found lately?

Beautiful Easy Bundt Cake

2013-05-20T08:31:00.001-04:00

I've always admired the beautiful cake designs from Nordicware cake pans, but have always had some difficulty with the more intricate designs of the pans. A simple bundt shape was never a problem, but some more elaborate designs could be difficult.

But I have some tips for you that I've learned from trial and error that will make baking a breeze for you.

How to Make a Perfect Bundt Cake:

Prepare the pan correctly. I used non-stick cooking spray, being careful to not have an excessive amount on the pan. Then I lightly sprinkled some flour around the pan, carefully coating the cooking spray with a light dusting.
Fill the pan correctly. Evenly pour the batter into the mold. After I poured in the batter, I tapped the pan on the counter to get out the air bubbles.
Release the cake promptly. I let the cake cool for about 10 minutes after it had baked perfectly. I shook the pan a little bit to see that it was loose. Then I put it on a plate, turned it upside down, crossed my fingers...

It was perfect!

I made this Pink Lemonade cake using the Nordic Ware Bavaria Bundt Pan from Williams Sonoma.

The Blossom Bundt Cake Pan is on my wedding wish list! I'll let you know how it goes with that pan if I receive it.

Do you have any baking tips or tricks that you would like to share? I'd love your suggestions.

Tiny Prints Giveaway!

2013-05-19T08:59:00.000-04:00

Planning a baby shower is so much fun! Every little detail is so special and will be remembered for years to come. When I was planning a baby shower for my sister and my new nephew, David, I wanted invitations and paper goods that were unique and trend-forward. Ultimately, I chose a theme of ducks.

Adorable duck invitations would be perfect for a boy, girl, or twins!

Tiny Prints Baby Shower Invitations are unique and have so many different options. Every baby is special and there's an invitation that's sure to suit your style. I adore these pink elephant invitations.

When the baby has arrived, tell your family and friends with a special birth announcement from this premium online stationery brand. I love the retro look of this Wonderful Woodland announcement.

For more tips and suggestions, join the Tiny Prints #TinyPrintsBaby Pinning Party™ with
@ResourcefulMom on May 20^th at 8 PM ET

To help you celebrate a baby shower, birth announcement, or other special event in your life, Tiny Prints is offering a giveaway for $50 off total order at Tiny Prints for one lucky winner.

Here's the Mandatory Method of Giveaway Entry:

Visit Tiny Prints Birth Announcements or Tiny Prints Baby Shower Invitations and leave a comment below this blog post or on my Facebook page with your favorite stationery item. Be sure to include your email address or make sure that your Facebook settings are set to receive messages so that I can contact the winner.

Earn an extra entry for "Sharing" this giveaway on social media sites like Twitter, Facebook, or Google + using the share buttons below this post. Please leave an additional comment to let me know that you shared the giveaway.

The giveaway ends on Friday, May 24 at midnight. The winner will be announced on this post and on Facebook on Saturday, May 25. All entries will be verified. Thanks for participating!

Update! Last night’s Pinning Party™ was postponed due to the tragic events in Oklahoma. If you have not yet posted or wish to update your post, the party has been rescheduled for Thursday, May 30^that 8 PM ET. The RSVP for the party is still at http://resourcefulmommy.com/12097/tiny-prints-baby-pinning-party/

Nautical Starfish Wedding

2013-05-16T08:41:00.000-04:00

It's hard to believe that the wedding is less than a month from today! Things are in full swing here and we're busy with last minute details. Yesterday I felt like the little mouse from the circular tale, If You Give a Mouse a Cookie.

I visited the Berwick Offray Ribbon Outlet and found hundreds of yards of irresistible grosgrain, satin, and organza ribbon. When I say hundreds, I mean hundreds. Not only do I have enough ribbon for any Pinterest wedding project imaginable, I'm in great shape from now until Christmas.

Here's a sampling of what I found for the nautical navy and pink wedding.

So then, spools of ribbon in hand, I set off to work. But just like the mouse in the story, I needed a few things to help me with my project. First I made a pillow for the ring bearer to carry. The pillow is about 8 inches square. I added different ribbons with hot glue and then attached a starfish to the top of the pillow. The navy and white striped grosgrain ribbon is my favorite.

Next on the to do list were the starfish boutonnieres for the special men at the wedding, including the handsome groom. These real starfish are about 4-5 inches in diameter and don't need any additional greens. I tried one with a leaf and another with some wheat grass behind it, but the grosgrain ribbon alone looks the best. A pin is attached to the back of the starfish so it will be easy to wear.

Right now, I'm in the process of making wands and the guest book. I will be sure to share those with you as I make more progress.

Shopping on Vacation at The Homestead

2013-05-13T09:20:00.005-04:00

A vacation is not complete without a little bit of shopping. At The Homestead in Hot Springs, Virginia, you could arrive without your luggage and it wouldn't matter. You can find anything and everything that you need (or want!) in the shops at the resort.

I spied lots of new spring clothing from Lilly Pulitzer at The Homestead at First Lady, probably my favorite shop at the resort. The Mint Julep print is so pretty!

The little nautical espadrilles are perfect for crisp whites.

This adorable blue dress is so retro chic. There is a little bit of delicate gathering at the waist with a tiny bow to accent the look.

Vineyard Vines offers excellent choices this season. I love the navy.

The Homestead shops also have a lot of tunics. From these Escapada tunics to others from Gretchen Scott and Skirtin' Around, there are so many choices.

Although I'm always looking at clothing, there are quite a few other great finds at The Homestead. The Spa Shop has delightful soaps and spa treatments. I also really loved the Hobby Horse, a children's store with toys and clothing. The 1766 Shop sells the china and tea service that the hotel uses.

When you go to a resort, do you always visit the shops? What is the best shop you've ever found?

Lilly Pulitzer Tween Decor

2013-05-10T09:03:00.003-04:00

The colors and theme's of Lilly Pulitzer's iconic prints make me smile when I wear them, so why not bring that sunshine to home decor, too. No room is overlooked at Casa Pink and Green, not even the minnies' bathroom.

The minnies are loving their new bathroom. The shower curtain in the Foxglove print is Lilly Pulitzer for Garnet Hill. The adorable little pink Taboo elephant night light is Lifeguard Press for Lilly Pulitzer.

But the walls were still bare! Luckily, I found a few inexpensive yellow frames at TJ Maxx and framed a few pages of an old Lilly agenda to hang on the wall. It's an easy and inexpensive way to decorate a small space like a bathroom and adds a pop of color.

Many thanks to Hopsy for helping me find a Lacoste bath rug for a steal!

Nautical Table for Two

2013-05-09T07:27:00.001-04:00

We've decided to have a sweetheart table at our wedding. Although the idea of a head table is a good choice for some brides, we don't want to separate members of our wedding party from their spouses during the reception. I've been to weddings where I had to sit at a head table and know that my significant other didn't like being at a table without me.

The sweetheart table is also a great place where we can spend some time together as a couple, but yet we are approachable to everyone and visible at the reception. In my mind, a table for two is much more approachable than a long rectangular table with the entire wedding party. John and I plan to visit each table at the reception, but this will be a nice, quiet place for us to actually get to enjoy our dinner. (Believe it or not, many brides get very little to eat at their own weddings because they are so busy!)

As a special place, the sweetheart table should have some special decor. Since we're incorporating navy and pink with a nautical theme, here are some ideas that I am considering. I'd love to know what you think!

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Won't these knots be such an adorable touch on the chairs?

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The water view from this sweetheart table is divine. The starfish, shells, and flowers are simple and elegant.

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What did you do at your wedding or what will you do in the future? Would you prefer a sweetheart table or large head table with the entire wedding party?

Freebies & Discounts for teachers

2013-05-07T08:16:00.003-04:00

If you've been reading Maryland Pink and Green for a while, you already know that I love my job. Teaching is such a rewarding career and I have wonderful students. Today, my AP Spanish students are taking the AP Exam. The test is so rigorous and is equivalent to a 300 level college course. I decided to have a breakfast for them before the test to give them a great start on the day.

Today is National Teacher Appreciation Day. If you're a teacher, thank you for all that you do. If you know a teacher, thank him or her for educating our children.

Teachers can take advantage of great deals today with their school identification. Visit Chick Fil A for a free chicken sandwich today. Chipotle is offering teachers a buy one, get one free burrito, bowl, salad, or order of tacos today from 4 p.m. until close.

Teachers who are shopping for a professional wardrobe, can also take advantage of some wonderful savings at a few of my favorite stores. Loft, J. Crew, and Vineyard Vines all offer teacher discounts of 20% on in store purchases with your school identification.

“The mediocre teacher tells. The good teacher explains. The superior teacher demonstrates. The great teacher inspires.” ― William Arthur Ward

Tame Your Mane

2013-05-06T10:23:00.000-04:00

I've been blessed with wavy, curly, thick hair that is incredibly difficult to manage these days. During the late 80s, it was the best type hair to have! In the time of hot rollers and big hair, I could have bouncy, curly hair without any problem. I do have to confess that I still have some old school hot rollers that I just can't bear to toss because I'm so attached to them! Ha!

Flash forward to 2013 and it's a challenge for me to straighten my hair or blow it out at home. One of my favorite treats is getting my hair blown out, but that's not too practical for every day.

When my friends at Misikko offered to send me a Hana Straightening Iron to take for a test drive, I jumped at the opportunity.

I've tried many brands and straighteners and can tell you that this is one of the best. The Flat Iron arrived quickly and included many extra goodies in the box. The packaging was stunning and would make a fabulous gift. Every iron includes a pad and a carrying case. A brush and lots of other fun surprises added a pop of pink to the box. You'll be amazed the contents of the package that arrives with free shipping.

The Hana Flat Iron has an adjustable temperature setting that suits all types of hair. I used the hottest setting and have had amazing results. The iron literally seems to glide across my hair and I have not experienced any tangling or pulling. I straightened my hair much faster with this iron than with other brands I have used in the past.

The results speak for themselves. Silky, straight hair in very little time!

I've also used the Hana Professional Flat Iron to flip up the ends of my hair or to create loose curls. So versatile.

5 Monogram Must-Haves

2013-05-01T08:25:00.002-04:00

I love anything with a monogram! Since I'm going to be getting a new monogram soon, I've been looking at some fun new monogrammed goodies. Here are a few of my favorites:

The Wooden Script Monogram from Southern Nest looks gorgeous as a decorative wall hanging or would be an excellent addition to a door wreath.

The Monogrammed Soap Original Gift Set from 2 Preppy Girls would look perfect in a guest bathroom. I love it that the design is carved into the soap, not engraved. This means that the design will last for quite a while.

Sparkle and shine at a dinner party with Monogrammed Silver Chargers. They're elegant and the price is amazing!

If I had to pick my favorite season, without a doubt it would be summer. I'm loving this Personalized Beach Towel for visits to the pool and beach. You'll always know which towel is yours!

Outdoor entertaining is a summertime staple at my house. Monogrammed Acrylic Serveware from Horchow is elegant, yet sturdy. It's safe and won't break by the pool or deck.

What is your favorite thing to monogram?

Easy Strawberry Tart

2013-04-30T06:00:00.000-04:00

"You really shouldn't make this tart anymore. If you do, I'm going to end up eating the entire cake pan by myself!"

I'm always looking for easy and delicious recipes, especially for summer events. I originally planned to make a strawberry lemonade cake in a Fleur de Lis Nordic Ware this weekend, but when I saw the fresh strawberries at the market, decided to change my recipe. And it's a good thing. The tart was a huge hit both at home and at the potluck dinner I attended.

Today, I'm going to share a delicious treat with you that is so easy! The cookie crust of this Strawberry Tart adds texture to the sweet filling.

The tart is a perfect dessert to make ahead of time for parties.

Here's what ingredients you will need for this easy recipe:
- Refrigerated Sugar Cookie Dough
- 8 oz. Whipped Cream Cheese
- A tub of Cool Whip
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 tbsp. vanilla

Preparation:
1. Prepare a baking pan with a small amount of cooking spray. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. Press the cookie dough into the pan. (You can see from the picture that my dough was not perfectly spread. No worries! It will work out perfectly and rise up about half an inch while it bakes.)
3. Bake the cookie dough for about 12 minutes at 350 degrees.
4. After the dough is completely cooled, you can add the filling.
5. Mix cream cheese, Cool Whip, sugar, and vanilla at a low speed on your mixer.
6. Add strawberries (or the fruit of your choice) and chill in the fridge.

Cookie dough is ready to bake!

The whipped topping is light and fluffy on top of a cookie crust.

Enjoy the delicious seasonal fruit!

Ready to serve.