Moments with the Montano's

Ornament Swap!

2012-11-24T19:45:00.002-05:00

This year I decided to join

Tutu's and Tea Parties Ornament Swap

Lauren does an excellent job matching up crafters across the country and even internationally.

We get to meet someone new and give them a little Christmas cheer.

We then get to show off our creations in the Ornament Link Up!

Click on the link to check it out.

Below are the pictures of the kutsudama origami ball I made for my match partner,

Bethany at Pitter and Glink.

Bethany gave me her Christmas decor colors of navy blue, gold and white

and I got to work.

I found the prettiest polka dot navy blue paper at Michael's.

For the embellishments I used brass bracelet findings and pearl headed pins.

I received the sweetest email from Bethany once she opened her package.

It was so much fun brightening someone's day.

If you are interested in making your own, find the step by step directions HERE.

October in Review

2012-11-24T18:02:00.002-05:00

Hi there everyone!

Sorry I have been missing, but these past two months have been very busy with school, work and storms. Thankfully, we had no issues with the storm. I hope you all had a great October and November. I figured I give you all an October in review to see what we were up to.

First up, we had a trip to Sesame Place with our friends. The entire park was decorated for Halloween and they even had Trick or Treating stations. It was really cute, what wasn't cute were the incredible lines. We waiting 1.5 hours for one ride. Even so, Michael was a trooper and didn't mind as long has he got to go on the rides.

Add caption

We then decorated for Halloween! My little helper was very excited to decorate with Mommy. We also had fun harassing Jaime with the fake spiders. Daddy is not a spider fan.

Then we had the scary sewing project. Michael wanted to be a storm trooper for Halloween but I couldn't find the classic costume in stores so I ordered it online. The sizing was right in between of Michael's current size, so I opted to go the larger size. Boy, was I off. I am an amateur sewer at best, but this project had me a bit concerned. I took the pants in at both the top of the black knee area and also at the bottom of the shoe cover. I also took in the waist at the back seam. I didn't cut out the extra fabric, in case Michael wants to use it again, then I could just let the seams out. It came out pretty good if I do say so myself. :)

Here is my little Storm Trooper modeling his costume. He was thrilled. And if you are counting, this is his third year as a Star Wars character. He has also been Anakin Skywalker and Jango Fett (not Boba, he would be sure to correct you).

Even Luna had little Halloween make over for her crate. I made an envelope pillow cover for her doggie bed. I used THESE instructions. The fabric was a soft flannel and the pattern total fits her personality. She absolutely loved it!

And we can't forget her Halloween costume this year. She is my little jail bird. And the back of the costume says Bad-Dog.

I would have totally dressed her in her Princess Leia costume I made last year, but she destroyed the wig. I guess she didn't like the buns. :) Learn how to make it HERE.

Our friends threw the cutest Halloween party for the kids. There was pumpkin painting, bobbing for apples, musical chairs and all sorts fun treats. My friend Suzanne did an amazing job!! How cute are these guys.

Also, I must say that warm pumpkin wine with a cinnamon stick is AMAZING! Yum.

Due to Hurricane Sandy, Halloween was postponed here in New Jersey. On 10/31, we decided to carve our pumpkins and have hot chocolate.

Trick or Treating was held on November 4th. Michael had a blast both going out for candy and coming home to hand out treats. His costume was a hit with all the dads. :)

If You're Pinning Then You're Winning!

2012-10-01T20:28:00.001-04:00

"Pinning!" is a Weekly Pinterest Link-Up

(Share pins, meet others who love "Pinning", get inspired!)

First Time? It's simple just follow these rules:

Please follow your hosts' blogs and Pinterest boards:

Courtney // Baxtron{Life} //

Kimberly // A Night Owl //

And your Co-Hosts:

Brooke // Design Stash //

Melysa // Moments with the Montanos //

then

Link up your Pinterest Inspired Post and Profile below

and

Make sure you link back to the party!

<center>
<a href="http://www.baxtronlife.com/search/label/Pinning" target="_blank"></a></center>

Share the link-up:

***

Here are my finds this week:

Source

THANK YOU to all who linked up last week!

So, who's "Winning at Pinning?"
This week it's Camille from Crazy Mama for this Gorgeous Fall Scene pin!

Source: stumbleupon.com via Camille on Pinterest

Camille feel free to grab the button, and flaunt it!

Each week a winner is chosen to flaunt the title of "Winning at Pinning" for successfully wowing us with the best Pinterest find. The winner will be featured/announced in the following week's post!

WANT TO BE A GUEST JUDGE or HOST?

Email us!

Are you "Pinning"?

Come on, everyone is doing it.

Join us MONDAYS for weekly sharing of Pinterest finds.

***

Link up your PINTEREST INSPIRED POST below:

***

Link up your PINTEREST PROFILE below:

First Day of Kindergarten

2012-09-29T23:56:00.001-04:00

We officially have a Kindergartener!

Michael started Kindergarten a few weeks ago and was thrilled to go to big boy school.

(Hansel the cat was thrilled to photo bomb my pics)

I shared a few first day pics with my family, but have finally gotten around to writing a post on the day.

There were tons of smiles from Michael and a few tears from me.

I took the day off from work so I could drop him off and pick him up.

Of course, I had to work around the school bus, since that was what he was most excited about.

"Only big kids get to ride the bus, mom."

Last year, I downloaded the "First Day" templates from How She Does and LOVED it.

Here is pic from last year.

So of course I had to keep the tradition going.

Our cat Hansel (he's so hot right now) kept meowing and jumping at the

sidelights while we took pictures so Michael wanted a few pics with him.

He's such a great kitty and watching him and Michael helped calm my nerves.

Here is Michael and his best buddy, waiting on the bus.

They were jumping up and down with excitement.

Running in...

My big boy all set for his new adventure.

His morning K daycare teacher drives the bus to the school.

Miss Sue is awesome.

The boys all buckled in.

It was at this point they starting dancing in there seats.

I hope he's this excited for school next year. :)

Michael is also giving me the "take the picture already, lady" smile.

Ready to go.

And he's off!

I followed the bus to school (like the crazy mom I am) but Miss Sue was fast.

He was already in the new school building before I caught up.

I thought I would be more teary, but his excitement and happiness made him going so much easier.

I am not sure if him being "in transit" was causing me anxiety or

just the loss of being able to control his environment.

Either way, any issues were in my head.

He had a great day and spent 20 minutes telling us every single detail of his day.

It hasn't all been perfect, though.

We have had a few bumps the first few weeks with missing old friends,

making new ones, and just overall learning the ropes.

But, even with those issues, Michael has kept up his excitement over school.

We have all adjusted to the new daily schedule.

Michael is currently reading, learning to write and just began addition.

When did he become such a big boy?

XOXO,

Let the baking begin!

2012-09-16T23:20:00.000-04:00

The hot summer weather broke last week

and we have had the most wonderful fall like temperatures!

Combine the gorgeous weather and over ripe bananas in my fruit bowl

and I thought banana bread!

I can bake again. :)

Then Jaime suggested chocolate chip banana bread.

Even better!

I consulted my dear friend Google and found THIS great recipe.

I made a few tweaks,

adding in vanilla, cinnamon and less banana (I only had 2).

I also added in one chopped Hershey's bar instead of chocolate chips,

since it was the only chocolate I had on hand and didn't want to go to the store.

Necessity is the mother of invention after all, right?

Here is the modified recipe:

Chocolate Chip Banana Bread

Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon baking soda

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/2 cup butter

3/4 cup brown sugar

1 teaspoon of cinnamon

1 teaspoon of vanilla

2 eggs, beaten

2 mashed overripe bananas - 3 for a strong banana flavor

One chocolate bar, finely chopped. - Can also use 2 cups of chocolate chips

Directions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Lightly grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan.
In a large bowl, combine flour, baking soda and salt.
In a separate bowl, cream together butter and brown sugar. Stir in eggs, vanilla, cinnamon and mashed bananas until well blended.
Stir banana mixture into flour mixture and chocolate chips; stir just to moisten.
Pour batter into prepared loaf pan.
Bake in preheated oven for 55 - 60, until a toothpick inserted into center of the loaf comes out clean. Let bread cool in pan for 10 minutes, then turn out onto a wire rack.

I cooked my bread for 60 minutes

and it looked like this out of the oven.

While it was cooling off, Jaime decided to taste test the crust.

Note the arrow below.

Here is the inside.

The chopped chocolate was melted through on the bottom.

The bread had a wonderfully light banana and chocolate flavor,

not overly sweet and with a hint of cinnamon.

I used ingredients I had on hand and was really pleased with the results.

Hope you like it

and

Happy Fall!!

Linking up to these great parties:

Monday The Girl Creative *Craftomaniac * Skip to my Lou * Mad in Crafts * Keeping It Simple * Sumo's Sweet Stuff * C.R.A.F.T. * Making The World Cuter * Alderberry Hill * Singing Three Little Birds *Ask Anna * Get Outta My Head Please * Three Mango Seeds * Lisa's Craft Blog * Polly Want a Crafter * DIY Home Sweet Home * Sew Can Do * Cooking with Karyn * An Original Belle * Destination: Craft * Toastie Studio * I should be mopping the floor * Everything Under the Moon

Wednesday - Someday Crafts *Sew Much Ado * Tea Rose Home *A Little Tipsy * The Thrifty Home * Fireflies and Jellybeans * My Girlish Whims * Gingersnap Crafts * Raegun Wear * The CSI Project* The Stuff of Success * Lil' Luna * The Sasse Life * Fine Craft Guild * Savvy Southern Style * First Home Love Life * Family Home and Life * Adorned From Above * Homestead Simple

Friday - Thirty Handmade Days * Romantic Home *Tatertots and Jello* Simply Designing * Creation Corner * Blissful and Domestic * Young and Crafty * Delicate Construction * Happy Hour Projects * Sassy Sites * Whipperberry * Little Inspiration * Serenity Now * Here Comes The Sun * Tidy Mom * Raising Oranges * Happy Go Lucky * The Grant Life * Toys in the Dryer * Fingerprints on the Fridge * Bacon Time * At the Picket Fence * Miss Mustard Seed * Chic on a Shoestring Decorating * My Turn * Craftionary

Saturday - Positively Splendid.com * Be Different Act Normal * Family Ever After *Lovely Crafty Home * Lollyjane * Funky Junk Interiors * Too Much Time On My Hands * Six Sisters Stuff * Country Momma Cooks * Nutmeg Place * Natasha in Oz * Honestly Dyea * Pam's Party Planning

Sunday - The DIY Showoff * Nifty Thrifty Things *Petite Hermine * I Heart Naptime * Flamingo Toes * Cherished Treasures *My 1929 Charmer * Embellishing Life Everyday * Sunday Social * Sassafras Salvation * Heatherly Love * Under the Table and Dreaming * Randee's Organized Chaos * It's Overflowing

Songs from the Vault Saturday #18

2012-09-15T09:05:00.002-04:00

Welcome to week 18 of

Songs from the Vault Saturday!

If you missed last week's song, check it out HERE

This week I'm featuring a song that I love.
I used it as one of my wedding songs
and it holds a special place in my heart.
But, it now holds an even more sacred place.

This week, one of my friends lost her husband .
He was diagnosed with Brain Cancer late last year and
lost his courage battle early Thursday morning.
It was 11 months to the day of his diagnosis.
This was the song she walked down the aisle to marry her soul mate.

My friend supported, cared and fought with him every step of the way.
She also fought hard for their two small boys, ages 5 and 3,
to make sure they had a sense of normalcy in the face of such pain and sadness,
and to have good memories of both their daddy and mommy during this time.
She is a super woman.

This song is in memory of Dan.
Rest in Peace.
And to Gina, Carson and Tyler; we love you.

By Your Side - Sade

Giveaway - Mohawk Rug

2012-09-10T23:01:00.001-04:00

Hi Everyone!

Yeah, I know it's Monday, but we are kicking this week off right.

Welcome to this awesome giveaway courtesy of Angie at Little Inspiration and Mohawk!

Today you will have the chance to win a Mohawk Rug
up to $150!

Looking for a new rug for your living room, bedroom or kid's room?

Look no further and browse through Mohawk's Area Rugs.
Mohawk has many designs and sizes for you to choose from and are available at most retailers like Target, Walmart, Bed Bath and Beyond, Lowe's and More!

To learn more about Mohawk and read the review please check out Little Inspiration's
Mohawk Rug review

To Enter use the rafflecopter form below. US Residents only. Giveaway Ends September 24, 2012 at 12:01am.

Good Luck!!

Songs from the Vault Saturday #17

2012-09-08T15:28:00.002-04:00

Welcome to week 17 of

Songs from the Vault Saturday!

If you missed last week's song, check it out HERE

This week I'm featuring an oldie but a goodie.
I chose it in honor of my little man's first day of kindergarten.
I'm so proud.

I thought it was about a boyfriend, but after seeing the video
you can see how it can be about anyone.
Perfect for my boy.

It's another fun one.fun.
I used to sing it word for word and think I choreographed a dance to it...
It's in my iPod.

Let's Hear It For The Boy - Deniece Williams

Gearing up for Kindergarten

2012-09-04T22:48:00.006-04:00

I've been somewhat emotional this week.

Like, almost sobbing into my salad at dinner, emotional.

How can my sweet little boy be starting school??

Yes, he's been in daycare since he was 3 months old,

BUT

now he will be "in-transit" and taking the school bus and going to a big kid school.

How?

I'll set that aside for Thursday.

K-Day.

Today was a nice ease ~~mom and dad~~ the kids into the transition

with Meet the Teacher Day.

We got to drop off our supplies, scope out the classroom, roam around the school and

obviously meet the new teacher.

Michael did relatively well.

Better than me.

There was a small squabble with an admin over paperwork, but I won't go there.

Just don't provoke an emotional mom, lady.

He loved his classroom and seemed ok with the teacher.

He was a bit bummed that none of his friends were in his same class.

I was bummed for him, but reminded him

on how many new friends he will get to meet and play with.

We did run into old friends which brightened his day

and resulted in a photo shoot.

He's been in daycare with both boys since he was around 1.

What a group of handsome little men.

Michael took these next two pictures all by himself.

Not bad.

I guess he is a big boy.

Now off to finish his First Day of School Sign, think of a good snack, get his school bag ready,

and find a box of tissues for me.

Songs from the Vault Saturday #16

2012-09-01T13:53:00.000-04:00

Welcome to week 16 of

Songs from the Vault Saturday!

If you missed last week's song, check it out HERE

This week I'm featuring a brand new song.
I heard it on the radio the day it was released and
instantly fell in love
and bought the song off of iTunes.

It's funny and quirky.
And if you've every been a teenage girl,
you can completely relate.
No wonder it's the fastest iTunes downloaded song ever.

The best part is her dancing around
in her pjs with her band dressed up as stuffed animals.
I also heard it was all shot in one take and with one camera.

It's fun.
It's going to be a teenage girl anthem. :)
It's in my iPod.

We Are Never Ever Getting Back Together - Taylor Swift

Fast Wire Shelving Surface Solution

2012-08-26T15:54:00.001-04:00

All of the closets and shelving in our house is the standard

builders grade wire stuff.

A few years ago we removed the wire shelf in our laundry room

and installed a nice 3 door cabinet.

Other than that, all shelving has remained the same.

And if you have wire shelving you know how much fun it can be.

Especially in a pantry.

All the little boxes or envelopes that tip over or

settle into the gaps between the wires.

I felt like my pantry was always in disarray.

I will hang my head in shame and embarrassment and show you my pantry.

::::wincing::::

Told you it was a big old mess.

I considered updating to deeper wooden shelves,

but I'm still working up the nerve to mess with the power tools and math

of creating shelves.

Enter Pinterest.

I was flipping through the decor board and saw THIS pin as a quick solution

for those pesky wire shelves.

During my vacation, I headed over to Lowes to pick up some stick tiles.

I didn't like any of the patterns, and the cheapest box was about $18.

So, then I headed over to Home Depot.

Same thing.

I was frustrated, and decided to wander around a bit.

I found the contact paper section, that had more styles I liked, but was flimsy.

The cork contact paper was much more sturdy,

But I wasn't sure if it would be easy to clean.

Plus, it was brown.

Bleh.

Then I saw this product in the wire shelving aisle.

I had no idea it existed.

Shelf Liner!

And at $7.98 a roll, it was a pretty good deal.

They had 2 different size depths so I grabbed one of each.

Turns out the one above was the exact dimension of my shelves.

So I took the smaller roll back and got another one of the larger roll.

Installation was a breeze.

All you need is are scissors and measuring tape.

Honestly, the hardest part was having to remove all the junk from the shelves.

So here's the how to:

Clean out your shelf.

Measure the length.

You don't have to worry about the depth if you pick the right sized roll.

See how I have that wonky angle.

I was going to worry about that in the next step.

Cut out the length.

I laid the liner on the shelf and bent the angle forward.

I then took my scissors and cut along the bend.

Tada!

Those little cut outs you see is how the liner connects to the shelf.

You push them through between two wires.

No adhesive.

They are pre-cut and spaced about every 6 inches on the liner.

I used that first liner as a template for my five shelves.

I used one entire roll and about 1/2 of the other.

I have enough left over for one more liner and extra.

So here is the finished product!

With all the food back in place and organized.

Which took FOREVER.

I can actually see what I have in there.

I feel like I have tons more room.

And I'm significantly less embarrassed.

I'd recommend this product for anyone with wire shelves.

I wish I had found out about it sooner.

Linking up to these great parties:

Monday The Girl Creative *Craftomaniac * Skip to my Lou * Mad in Crafts * Keeping It Simple * Sumo's Sweet Stuff * C.R.A.F.T. * Making The World Cuter * Alderberry Hill * Singing Three Little Birds *Ask Anna * Get Outta My Head Please * Three Mango Seeds * Lisa's Craft Blog * Polly Want a Crafter * DIY Home Sweet Home * Sew Can Do * Cooking with Karyn * An Original Belle * Destination: Craft * Toastie Studio * I should be mopping the floor * Everything Under the Moon

Tuesday - Tip Junkie * Sugarbee Crafts * Funky Polkadot Giraffe * My Uncommon Slice of Suburbia * Crafty Confessions * Home Stories A to Z * Homework * Not Just a Housewife * Project Queen *A Diamond in the Stuff * Cherished Bliss * Blackberry Vine * Uncommon * The Southern Product Queen * Jillify It * Naptime Delights * In the Old Road

Wednesday - Someday Crafts *Sew Much Ado * Tea Rose Home *A Little Tipsy * The Thrifty Home * Fireflies and Jellybeans * My Girlish Whims * Gingersnap Crafts * Raegun Wear * The CSI Project* The Stuff of Success * Lil' Luna * The Sasse Life * Fine Craft Guild * Savvy Southern Style * First Home Love Life * Family Home and Life * Adorned From Above * Homestead Simple

Thursday - Somewhat Simple * The Shabbycreek Cottage * The 36th Avenue * Thrifty 101 * A Creative Princess * House of Hepworths * The Artsy Girl Connection * Katie's Nesting Spot * Between U and Me * A Glimpse Inside * Christina's Adventures * Made in a Day * Adventures in Dinner * Embracing Change * 52 Mantels * The Taylor House * Loving this crazy life * The Crafty Blog Stalker

Friday - Thirty Handmade Days * Romantic Home *Tatertots and Jello* Simply Designing * Creation Corner * Blissful and Domestic * Young and Crafty * Delicate Construction * Happy Hour Projects * Sassy Sites * Whipperberry * Little Inspiration * Serenity Now * Here Comes The Sun * Tidy Mom * Raising Oranges * Happy Go Lucky * The Grant Life * Toys in the Dryer * Fingerprints on the Fridge * Bacon Time * At the Picket Fence * Miss Mustard Seed * Chic on a Shoestring Decorating * My Turn * Craftionary

Saturday - Positively Splendid.com * Be Different Act Normal * Family Ever After *Lovely Crafty Home * Lollyjane * Funky Junk Interiors * Too Much Time On My Hands * Six Sisters Stuff * Country Momma Cooks * Nutmeg Place * Natasha in Oz * Honestly Dyea * Pam's Party Planning

Sunday - The DIY Showoff * Nifty Thrifty Things *Petite Hermine * I Heart Naptime * Flamingo Toes * Cherished Treasures *My 1929 Charmer * Embellishing Life Everyday * Sunday Social * Sassafras Salvation * Heatherly Love * Under the Table and Dreaming * Randee's Organized Chaos * It's Overflowing

Songs from the Vault Saturday #15

2012-08-25T11:37:00.002-04:00

Welcome to week 15 of

Songs from the Vault Saturday!

If you missed last week's song, check it out HERE

I'm baaaack.
Well, I've been here the whole time, but was take a little summer break.
You know,
birthdays, vacation, getting the house in order,
mentally preparing myself for Michael to start Kindergarten.
**SOB**
Anyway, I'm back and this week I wanted to
send a shout out to an artist that was in the new this week.
You may have heard how he captured an intruder who broke in during the night
while the entire family was sleeping.
He subdued (aka punched him out) and held him until the police came.

I believe the intruder forgot a warning in this weeks song:
"Don't you ever, ever, pull my lever. 'Cause I explode."

Even if you don't like rap, just turn down the sound and take a moment to look at his muscles.
Go ahead, I'll wait....
I also believe this video needs more shots of his muscles.
I'm just saying.

I love this song and find it to be a great motivational song when I work out.
It pumps me up.
It should warn intruders.
It's in my iPod.

Mama Said Knock You Out - LL Cool J

Hope you like it!

and go LL!

Songs from the Vault Saturday #14

2012-07-28T11:10:00.001-04:00

Welcome to week 14 of

Songs from the Vault Saturday!

If you missed last week's song, check it out HERE

This week I'm pumped up by the Olympic opening ceremony.
Well, at least what I caught, I feel asleep at the end.
But I have been watching Men's bicycling and Swimming this morning.

I loved the British music section.
It was really fun and reminded me of so many great songs.
So why not a little British invasion this week?

I love this song.
I love the high hair and highlights.
I love the smooth moves.
It's in my iPod.

The Reflex - Duran Duran

Songs from the Vault Saturday #13

2012-07-21T07:00:00.000-04:00

Welcome to week 13 of

Songs from the Vault Saturday!

If you missed last week's song, check it out HERE

This week I decided to switch it up.
Let's go completely random and unbiased.
I hit shuffle on my iPod
and up popped this little gem.
Yes, it's truly outrageous.
Yes, that was a Gem reference.
Yes, I'm old.

This week's song is another fun one.
It's a one hit wonder.
It's got a psychedelic video.
It's in my iPod.

Groove is in the Heart - Deee Lite

XOXO,

My little fish

2012-07-20T22:52:00.002-04:00

Swimming, swimming in the swimming pool.

Or should I say, learning to swim.

Michael just finished Beginner Swim classes!

In one month, my little man went from having tentative, non face dampening,

knee deep only, water fun,

to jumping with confidence off the diving block into the deep end,

with short bursts of underwater swimming.

It truly is amazing what 8 lessons can do.

* and new goggles and practicing with mama after class *

That and a great coach!

(go Coach Tom)

This is Michael on his first class day.

He wasn't interested in taking off his water shoes, getting his face

or hair wet, or attempting the pool noodle on his own.

Here is a video of my little man showing off his water "jogging".

Sorry, I wasn't able to rotate the video. Feel free to turn your head for optimal viewing. :)

Fast forward to the last class.

Michael is the first to volunteer to jump into the deep end.

(with Coach Tom waiting)

I tried to get him in full action, but missed his leap.

This is the wind up

And his big splash.

I mean he is underwater and all!

(I'm a proud mama)

Here he is waiting for next turn. :)

Lastly, I had to show off this video of his new mad solo swimming skills!

Now of shot of Michael's favorite part of swim, the after swim snack.

We are moving on to Intermediate Swim class next week.

I can't wait to see how he improves.

XOXO,

Ooooooh, Sparkly.

2012-07-15T23:30:00.000-04:00

Here is a tutorial for a quick, easy and pretty pendant.

I have been on a look out for a pretty pendant on a long necklace

for some time.

I while looking for the supplies for my wire cabochon TUTORIAL,

I came across this pretty filigree circle.

A light bulb went off.

Turns out I had everything on hand to make my own necklace.

Isn't sad when you don't realize or remember all the craft supplies you have?

20 inch silver chain

3 silver jump rings

faux pearls

bead spacer

twist clasp

Add to that some heavy duty glue (I used E600),

and a needle nose and round nose plier

and I was in business.

Glue your bead spacer to the middle of your filigree circle.

Then glue your faux pearl in the middle.

Once it dries, add one jump ring.

Use both pliers to open and then close the jump ring.

Below is a picture before I closed it.

Set it aside.

Then take our chain, clasp and 2 other jump rings.

you will be attaching a jump ring to the chain and also the clasp.

Just twist open the jump ring and thread both through.

Before you repeat on the other side, be sure to slip the pendant onto the chain.

And you are done!

Told you it would be quick and easy.

the whole project took about 5 minutes minutes, minus the dry time wait.

It looks really cute with both dresses and pants and I love it.

I couldn't get the best picture of how sparkly it is.

I even received several comments on my nice new bling.

Yeah, that's how I roll.

lol

XOXO,

Linking up to these great parties:

Just the right fit

2012-07-08T23:07:00.001-04:00

So, I'm talking shoes again.

I'm my issues with shoe sizing and fit.

(again, sorry for making you look at my feet)

I found these adorable sandals last month for $5.

I mean, they are cute AND in my size so I snapped them up quickly.

Then I realized that they ran big.

So even these size 5's were too big for my right foot.

Like they were more like size 6.

But they were so cute!!!!!

See.

After staring at them a bit, I realized that I could

adjust both the front and back straps.

In theory

And if I messed up, it was only $5 down the drain.

So I bought them.

They ended up sitting around for about a month

until I finally got the nerve to ~~cut them up~~ fix them.

It seemed like a pretty straight forward fix,

shorten both the front and back straps.

I pulled out some tools:

Needle and Thread

Thimble

Seam Ripper

Scissors

I started with the back strap, since it seemed easier than tackling the front.

I used the seam ripper to get in between the pleather straps and cut the stitching.

Try not to cut the strap itself.

I was lucky that mine came apart pretty quickly.

Slip the sandal back on and then remeasure the strap to a snug fit.

I marked the spot with my thumb.

Take the sandal off and line up the straps.

Use the same stitch holes to sew the front and back straps back together.

Make sure to not sew the stray part you looped over.

Go all around the strap and knot it off.

Cut off the excess strap and you are done!

I tried the sandal back on and still needed to take some length off the front.

After some deliberation, the easiest way to get the fit I needed

was to cut the toe strap.

(not sure of the technical term??)

So, same process as the other strap,

take the seam ripper and cut the stitching where the toe strap

meets the top of the sandal.

Once opened the toe strap slid right out.

Cut the amount you want to remove.

Reinsert the strap and follow the stitch holes to reattach.

Since this area will have a lot of stress, I sewed over the stitches at least 4 times.

And there you have it!

I was able to wear my new sandals immediately with no issues.

They are comfy and still pretty cute.

Even with my wonky feet.

Hope this inspires you to fix the fit on sandals you may have.

I have ideas for a few others in my closet.

XOXO,

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Songs from the Vault Saturday #12

2012-07-07T12:26:00.001-04:00

Welcome to week 12 of

Songs from the Vault Saturday!

If you missed last week's song, check it out HERE

I thought last week's heat was bad,
today will be the hottest day this summer.
I don't know about you, but temps in the 100s are just plain mean.

This week's song is a one of those get you moving numbers.
Basically what I would be doing if I wasn't busy melting.
It reminds of high school and parties.
It's in my iPod.

Gonna Make You Sweat - C+C Music Factory

My observations from this video:

I remember when I fit into biker shorts...
I also remember the whole controversy over who actually sung the chorus to this song.
It's kinda all over the place, with the dancers and models and kids and gears. :)

Clipper Hair Cut Success at Home!

2012-07-05T23:32:00.000-04:00

Take a look at my handsome little man and his fresh new haircut,

done by me!

This is a big deal.

After a few

TERRIBLE

at home trims I have given him, I vowed not to torture him again.

Exhibit A:

Poor baby, his bangs were a hot, crooked mess.

He looked like Friar Tuck.

Notice he is flipping me off.

Ever since, Jaime insisted we needed a pro to cut Michael's hair.

But this kid has a TON of hair and it grows so fast.

Visits to our local place were either every 3 - 4 weeks or

my kid ran around like a mop head

(albeit, cute mop head).

I was catching up on my blog reading when I stumbled upon THIS

post from Young House Love and how Sherry cuts John's hair.

It was a really good tutorial and gave me new hope.

Only thing was she uses scissors.

That had been my downfall before.

See Exhibit A.

A few weeks later, as I was running my hands through Michael's really-needing-to-be-cut hair,

I decided to google boys haircuts and clippers,

since I had a perfectly unused clipper kit in the closet.

If I can see it done, I'm sure I can do it.

I found two great tutorials that gave me the confidence to try again!

Besides, it's summer and no one would question it if my kid went to school with a buzz cut.

Buzz cuts hide all mistakes.

The first site is Frugal Fun for Boys and THIS post has great pics and videos.

The second site is Heavenly Homemakers and THIS post has a wonderful picture of hair angles.

Using all three posts and reviewing the video several times,

I set out to tame Michael's tresses.

(hey, it was fun to say)

I forgot to take a before picture.

His hair was long around the ears and had no shape.

Basically a long, fuzzy brown ball.

I started at the bottom and used the size 3 guard all around the back and sides of his head.

I figured I could make it shorter if necessary.

I then used the size 4 guard at the temple and top back of the head.

I like his bangs longer,

so I used the size 8 guard for the front and cut the top.

I decided to go back over the bottom with a size 2 guard to tighten it up.

Lastly, I cleaned up the sideburns and back hairline with a Jaime's beard trimmer.

It really was just like the videos.

Granted, Michael giggled and flinched throughout the process,

but at least I didn't mess up his hair or have to buzz him.

I did have to give him the hairy eyeball a few times.

Jaime came to supervise right at the end and was very impressed.

He even said I can cut Michael's hair all the time.

I think he was happy about saving the $15 per cut.

If you already cut the hair in your family, do you have any tips?

If you can work up the nerve, try it.

You may surprise yourself and save some cash.

XOXO,

4th of July Wreath

2012-06-30T21:19:00.000-04:00

We normally don't decorate for Independence Day.
Yes, I feel a bit guilty about not flying the red, white and blue.

But I have been loving all of the amazing decor I've been seeing on

blogland and pinterest.

There was a 5 Below store right next to the restaurant where we were having dinner last night.

Outside was a huge bin of pool noodles marked $1 each.

Didn't I see some cool, pool noodle wreath tutorials?

I can give it a try for $1.

So after dinner, we headed over and I picked up a few noodles and

some amazing decorative duct tape.

(for my next project)

After reviewing my pins and doing a few google searches,

I put this little number together this afternoon,

I am really digging it.

And it was so easy to make!

and literally cost me $1!!

(insert happy dance)

What do you need to make your own wreath:

Pool Noodle

Packing Tape

Blue and White paper

Scissors

Hot Glue Gun

Spray Paint - Optional

Ribbon - Optional

I angled the ends of my pool noodle slightly

so it would make a perfect circle.

Once I got the right fit, tape it up.

Even though my pool noodle was red, it looked a bit pink.

I had red spray paint on hand from a old project, so why not bump up the color?

After a few light coats.

(Now it really looks pink in the previous picture.)

Set it out to dry.

Next step is making the rosettes.

I had 3 pieces of paper that I cut in varying sizes.

2 pieces for the long paper and 4 for the shorter.

Fold each paper accordian-style and glue together end to end.

Then glue the two ends together to make a circle.

Here are my different sizes.

Then just push down on the top to make your rosettes.

I put a dab of hot glue in the center to keep the rosettes in place.

Next up is making the origami stars.

It took me at least 3 pieces of paper to get this process down.

I found THIS great step by step video, but I like still pictures too.

So here is my process.

This is a piece of 8.5 X 11 paper cut in half.

Fold the paper onto itself.

Take the lower right corner and bring it up to the top edge of the paper.

Make sure your corners are pointed and form a crease.

Bring it back down.

Take the upper right corner and bring it down to the bottom edge of the paper.

Make sure your corners are pointed and form a crease.

Bring it back up.

You'll now have a creased X on the end of the paper.

Now take the left edge of the paper and bring it to the middle of the X.

Note: your paper will be too long, so look at the bottom of the X and

start your fold about half and inch from the X.

Bring toward the middle, then cut the paper where the middle of the X overlaps.

It will look like the picture below.

Take the middle point of the paper and fold it back onto itself,

lining up the edge of the paper with the one below.

Take the bottom right edge (red dot) and bring it up so the edge matches the middle fold.

It tried to make this easier with some colors.

So, take the red dot and move it to the blue dot and the edges line up on the red line.

Now, fold the paper behind at the red line.

You will end up with the below.

Only a few more steps!

You can do it!!

This is where you get to choose the size of your star.

Take your scissors and cut along the red line.

The lower and narrower, the smaller your star will be.

You are left with a tiny triangle.

Just unfold it.

You will see the middle of the star and the legs.

I just played around with the creases to make sure all were the same.

Basically, make the shape below for each leg.

You will be left with a perfect star.

I know it's a ton of pics, but the stars took about 3 minutes each.

That is, once I figured out my folding.

I made 3 for the wreath.

The last part was the fun part.

Placing the rosettes and stars in a fun patter and hot gluing them in place.

Once I was done, I realized I needed to break up the red.

I found some thin white ribbon, hot glued one end and looped it round the wreath.

All Done!

Jaime and Michael thought it was pretty cool.

I have to agree.

XOXO,

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Songs from the Vault Saturday #11

2012-06-30T11:26:00.003-04:00

Welcome to week 11 of

Songs from the Vault Saturday!

If you missed last week's song, check it out HERE

This week I'm conceding to the extreme heat.

This week has ended with severe thunderstorms and temps in the high 90s.
If you know east coast summers, it is hazy, hot and
HUMID.
(my poor crazy hair).

This week's song shows non-roasting oven,
summer vacation, beachy fun.
It reminds of lots of good times at the shore.
It's in my iPod.

Steal My Sunshine - Len

My observations from this video:

How fun are the mopeds. Need to put that on my bucket list.
I need to schedule a beach vacation.

Songs From The Vault Saturday #10

2012-06-23T00:01:00.000-04:00

Welcome to week 10 of

Songs from the Vault Saturday!

If you missed last week's song, check it out HERE

This week I decided to post an 80s song in

honor of the 80s Party my girlfriends are having tonight.
That's right,
I'm whipping out the aqua net, teasing comb and neon.
I heard someone has a crimping iron....

Can I just say one thing?

I LOVE WHAM!
I LOVE GEORGE MICHAEL!
ok, two things.

My room was plastered with George.
Oh, swoon.
This song epitomizes 80s fun, hair and fashion.
It's a guilty pleasure.
It's in my iPod.

Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go - Wham!

My observations from this video:

I still have no clue what this song is about. :)
Frosted tips, dolphin shorts and goofy dancing. No problem.
Glow in the dark eyebrows are not a good look.

XOXO,

All Wrapped Up

2012-06-18T23:11:00.003-04:00

Hi All!

Sorry I've been MIA, just been busy at work and at home.

But I'm back and wanted to share my latest craft, a

Wire Wrapped Cabochon Pendant

I am a sucker for all things sparkly and intricate.

This pendant has all the things I love,

and it's easy to do,

and it's purple!

You don't necessarily need a cabochon, any oval shaped

jewel, stone, rock would work just fine.

Supplies needed:

Cabochon

22 Gauge Wire - I used Sterling Silver (found at Michael's Craft store)

Needle nose pliers

Round nose pliers

Ruler

Jump rings

So here is my pretty cab. I actually made this guys with dichroic and purple glass.

oooooooh, shiny.

Measure out 10 inches of wire.

It will be a bit wild, as shown.

Find the middle of the wire and the middle of the cabochon.

Mark the middle and top and bottom third.

Bend the wire at the top third.

Wrap around the front of the cabochon

and then secure on the middle wire.

Repeat on the bottom end.

Once both ends are secure, cut the remaining wire lengths.

You can take your needle nose pliers and twist the middle wire to tighten.

The back should look like this.

And this is the front.

Now on to the embellishments.

Cut 2 wires, one 3 inches and one 2.5 inches in length,

smooth them out into a curve (I used a pen) and bend both ends.

Starting with the 2.5 inch length,

attach one end to the back bottom loop and tighten (squeeze) with the pliers.

Attach the other end to the top and tighten

Next take the 3 inch length and repeat.

You will need to play with your placement to get it just right.

Here is mine from the back.

Just be sure to bend all the wire ends in and squeeze so they are nice, tight,

and don't scratch you.

Finally, attach the jump ring to the center point of your pendant.

And you are all set!

Here is a close up.

I attached mine to a wire necklace I already had.

Here I am modeling my new pendant.

Hope you like it as much as I do!

I really like the asymmetrical look and

how the silver plays off the colors in the cabochon.

I find that wire wrapping is a log of trial and error.

Believe me, I have kinked up plenty of wire trying to get the right look.

Just take your time and have fun.

You'll be glad you tried it.

XOXO,

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Songs from the Vault Saturday #9

2012-06-09T00:05:00.000-04:00

Welcome to week 9 of

Songs from the Vault Saturday!

If you missed last week's song, check it out HERE

This week I decided to post a fun summer song.

One we all know and probably sing out loud at weddings or at the bar.

Remember that Grease remix a few years back?
Yes, I'm old.

Whenever I hear it, I smile and want to sing into my hairbrush.
It makes me remember hugging my double album set.

Summer Nights - Grease Soundtrack

My observations from this video:

I still think Olivia Newton John is the best singer EVAH!
I used to think that Danny Zucco was dreamy.
I don't remember high school being this fun. :)

Hope you like it and it makes you sing or tap your toe along.

XOXO,

My Little Graduate

2012-06-08T00:32:00.000-04:00

We celebrated Michael's Pre-K Graduation on Wednesday.

It was an adorable little ceremony at his daycare for the 24 students in the class.

Teachers Miss Rae Leigh and Miss Kelly did an excellent job with everything!

Below is the Ceremony portion of the booklet we received.

It had the names of all the children,

ceremony details

and a small message to the kids.

So sweet.

Here are all the anxious graduates.

You can see that Michael is pumped to sing the "Toy Story" theme song.

We didn't think he would belt it out like he did.

But then got very serious as Miss Rae Leigh read the awards.

Here is Michael receiving his special award,

Class Anchorman.

Since he likes to report all the news to the teachers, parent or anyone that will listen. :)

Jaime was proud and leaned over and whispered "Stay Classy, San Diego"

We love the movie Anchorman.

I love his smile and how he is reading his award!

Here you see the kids celebrating and at the end of the ceremony.

They were all dancing to "My Future's So Bright, I Gotta Wear Shades"

My little graduate!

Michael posing with Tita.

And then with me.

I promise I am wearing clothes in this picture.

We bought Michael an Avengers Lego Set to celebrate.

He was thrilled.

So thrilled that he slept with the entire box.

Exhibit A: The top arrow is his head. The bottom arrow is the box.

LOL.

And to see how much he has grown,

this is his first day of Pre-K picture.

And this is his last day.

sniffle sniffle.

He looks like such a big boy.

sob.

Mommy and Daddy are so proud of you, little man.

XOXO,