One Thrifty Chick

Girls Room Makeover {Chevron Walls}

2013-03-24T19:21:00.003-07:00

I have to be honest, I am so embarrassed to show you these before pictures. Truly!

Over the last year my daughter has been living in what used to be a really fun little boys room. We mad the switch because her trundle bed fit better with the layout of this bedroom. When we did the switch, things got hectic, and all we got done was spackling the massive spots on the walls... that was it. FAIL!

So like all room makeovers, we started with our inspiration for the room. She chose two colors from her existing bedding, and we got right to work. I should also mention that I spring this on my husband on a Friday night... no plans before what so ever!

He got right to work. So fast that I almost missed out on before pictures, so I just started snapping them at that point.

So awful looking... ick!

I sat down and created a sketch of how the chevron wall was going to be done. There are plenty of tutorials on Pinterest, so I will skip that part. It's truly pretty simple.

We got all of the white painted along with the aqua. The bottom half of the aqua has some plans for board and batten.

On Saturday we taped our Chevron stripes after all other paint had plenty of time to dry.

Ok, I am going to share my tips for perfect strips. Spend the extra money and buy frog tape, and Behr Ultra paint (only need one coat). Then paint each strip one at a time, removing the tape while its wet. They come out perfect every time!

Moving on to the board and batten. Again, head to Pinterest for a plethora of tutorials. While Allen worked on that, I was working on some of the decor.

SO MUCH FUN!!

Here it is! Completed by 10pm Sunday night! Two and a half days!!!!

And the latest addition, Santa delivered the most pefect funky chandelier. It sparkles like magic!!

Thanks for stopping by! I'd be happy to share specifics, just leave me a comment!

A Bloggers Weight Loss Reality

2013-03-07T09:41:00.004-08:00

4 months ago I started the journey of a lifetime. As I look back I cannot believe how far I have come. And knowing that I could have done better gives me that much more strength to move ahead and become greater.

Lets take a look back at where I started...

275 Pounds ago I was so UN-happy, sick and a total mess. This is how I would look on any given day. A hat to hide the hair that I didn't have the energy to fix up every morning, and a cardigan as my shield. What was I hiding? It's clearly not hiding the weight.

The ONLY thing I did from October through February was change my eating habits. No fad diets, just clean and lean foods, paired with elite nutrition products from Advocare. And as of Sunday March 3rd 2013 I am 33 pounds lighter and look a whole lot better.

Over the months of my journey I started to notice big changes in my body. And of habit I documented them every step of the way. It made me feel a tad vain taking so many "self-portraits" but I will be forever thankful that I have them to reflect back on.

This was about a month and a half into my journey. I was getting ready to take the kids to swimming and put on my workout clothes and was sooo excited to see that my love handles were headed out the door!

With each passing week my body got smaller and smaller.

This was a HUGE milestone for me. I was able to not only fit into my most favorite pair of jeans an entire size smaller, but NO MUFFIN TOP!!!

It is the best feeling to wake up and know you can wear anything in your closet that you want and not worry about hiding anything anymore.

Dresses even became a new favorite of mine.

I've still got my road ahead of finishing what I have started, but more than myself I am so thrilled to have so many women (and Men) right beside me changing their own lives. I lived in the dark and afraid of this for so long, and if I can do this, anyone can! I have such a bigger and brighter outlook on life now and finding my purpose has been so rewarding.

I want to reach out to touch and inspire every single person that is hiding from themselves for these very reasons. You can do this! Make small simple changes. Quit going to the drive through, stop going to Starbucks, switch from white bread to whole grain bread, no more soda or red bull. These are small steps to a greater future! Do not starve yourself or search for that miracle pill because what it takes is a greater mindset and commitment to yourself.

If you want more information on exactly what I did, I would LOVE to share, so please leave me a comment.

I hope to have a brand new update next month with some newer photos of my progress! So until then, get out there and make a change for yourself, your family needs you!

Hugs,

A year of change

2013-03-06T12:34:00.000-08:00

Year 2013 is my year for Greater. That is the word that shall follow me for the next 10 months. I realize I am a little behind on my new years post, but with Great reason.

I've been a traveling mama, and can't wait to share all my adventures with you. During my travels I have become a changed woman inside and out.

If you have followed my blog for a while you know the dark days that 2012 brought our family, and I refuse to let the dark creep back in. It will be sunshine and light from here on out. We are still faced with struggles, but I am keeping my head held high and going to tread through the water at full force.

And can I be honest for a minute? I LOVE my blog, it's like a baby of mine. But when I get busy, my blog is the baby that suffers, and it's because I can just turn it off. I am still a blogger at heart which means my iPhone is jam packed with amazing photos and tutorials. I'm ready to unload.

I am making a list and am going to go down it one at a time until all my posts are up. I may even get some scheduled! WOW!!

I want to thank each and every one of my readers for sticking with me over the years, you are why I blog!! :)

Blog Agenda:

Weight loss update (exciting)
Daughter's Bedroom makeover (AMAZING)
Robot Birthday Party
2012 Christmas Decor (yep, gonna pull it out even in March)
Holiday Teacher Appreciation Lunch Decor
Removal of said Christmas decor (Funny)
Master Bedroom final reveal
DIY Lamp shade Pendant (Tutorial)
Phoenix, Arizona
Art-Tastic Birthday Party
Surprise 30th Birthday
LAS VEGAS!
Dallas, Texas
Advocare
New Office Remodel
One in a blue moon baby shower
Craft Club

WOWSERS!! That is quite the list. And I am going to do it!! Starting tonight!! Look for a new post tomorrow!!

Where did I go???

2012-12-26T21:01:00.000-08:00

Here is a little bit of whats been going on. I have so many things to share with you all, but life got in the way, and needed my attention!! I will be back soon with some fun posts.

Update over at Breathing in the moment!

First Birthday Carnival Party

2012-11-11T20:22:00.000-08:00

This weekend I had the pleasure of working with Jamie who just happens to be the owner of my most favorite home decor store in town! Real Deals in Eugene.

Well this past weekend they celebrated their sweet daughter Sophia's very First Birthday!

When I really started talking Parties with Jamie, she had already chosen a carnival themed party, and I was ecstatic since I have already done 2 of them.

But don't be fooled, this carnival party is no ordinary party.... it was extraordinary in every single detail.

I have so many fun pictures to share, so please enjoy them!

I created a fun highchair skirt to coordinate with the theme, and used extra fabric to cover the seat.

Jamie created paper cones to hold popcorn, and placed them into a wooden wine bottle rack. LOVE this idea!

This amazing Ferris Wheel held delicious Kool-Aid popcorn. So cute, and made a huge statement on the dessert table.

Delicious mini cupcakes made by another fabulous customer. There were some great flavor choices to choose from!

And how sweet is this? I mean come on.... she is just precious or what? And I love how this was brought into the party decor.

Peanut cakes made by the Birthday Girl's Great Grandma. A family tradition, and a great addition to the carnival.

Here is the overall look of the food and beverage tent! It is amazing.

Jamie and her sister spent hours draping the rolls of plastic table covering to create the "Big Top" effect. I would say worth every.single.minute! WOW!

I created a custom "Carnival" banner to adorn the front of the tent. I used printed letters, placing them on metallic corrugated card stock, and did some fun embellishing. It turned out just how I wanted it to for the party.

We created sticker labels for the cotton candy bags. We gave it a more "vintage" feel, and called it sugary sweet candy floss.

The tables were wonderful! Using my sewing machine and red polka dot fabric, I created a runner for each table. The ends of the runners were adorned with white pom pom fringe. So sweet!

My amazing graphic designer created all of the custom printable for the party, including these table cards. You can check out my Facebook page to view the entire collection.

Jamie created these awesome tulle pom poms on a basic dowel, and then placed them inside of the cotton candy cones to give it the cotton candy look. Amazing!

My sweet hubby built this directional sign for the event. It was super simple, but he went the extra mile to give it a designated name plate and angled ends. Love him. After he painted it, I cut out vinyl using my cricut and finished it off for the party!

This is a view of the outside part of the party. Have to have the bounce house, and then the area in the back became a petting zoo, shortly after the party started.

I used the original pennant flags that I created for my very first carnival party. These have become a party favorite, and will be around for quite a while.

The games were all the same as before, with an addition of balloon darts.

Here is another view from one corner of the shop.

Mason jar's for the adult beverages. Always a hit!

Check out this carnival food set-up! A real hot dog roller!! So fun. There was also soft pretzels, popcorn chicken, and a chili bar!

I hope you enjoyed these photos. This party was so much fun to plan and to set-up. The family was great to work with, and Jamie was so much fun during the entire process! Thanks Jamie!

Be sure to check out all of the parties I like to link up to by clicking here.

Posh-Parties $30 Shop Credit GIVEAWAY!

2012-11-05T23:30:00.000-08:00

Most of you know by now that I have started my own Party Planning business, called Posh Parties by One Thrifty Chick!

As a kick off to the business I would like to giveaway a $30 shop credit to one of my lucky readers!! You will be able to use this towards any current collections, or a new custom design. The $30 will also include any printing and shipping costs if chosen.

This giveaway will end on Friday November 9th, so please share away!!

There are 7 chances to win, and you can share this on your facebook page everyday for additional chances!

Have fun, and THANK you for being my fabulous readers and an amazing support!!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Barbie Birthday Party

2012-11-03T23:14:00.002-07:00

Today I had the pleasure of working with a great friend of mine to create the perfect Barbie party for her 6 year old daughter.

Everything was created and decorated by Posh Parties. I will let the pictures do all the talking.

(Birthday Girl & Mom)

(Creator of the box)

(Birthday Girl & my daughter)

Happy Birthday sweet girl!!

2012-11-01T22:32:00.003-07:00

Head on over to Breathing In The Moment to see what I am facing as my reality at the moment.

Teacher Gifts {Halloween Simmering Spices}

2012-10-30T23:17:00.002-07:00

For Halloween this year I wanted to create something simple for the teachers and staff at my children's school. Now that I have 2 kids in school full time, the amount of teachers add up quickly. So keeping it fun, personal and affordable is key!

I chose to make simmering spice packets. I did these a couple of years ago, and they were a huge hit with the teachers. One they said they wanted again!

I've created a tutorial so that you can create the same things for your friends or family. These could be used for Thanksgiving, and even Christmas. Enjoy!

You will need the following supplies:

Fresh Oranges
Fresh Lemons
Cinnamon Sticks
Whole Cloves
Whole Allspice
Ground Nutmeg
Ground Cinnamon

Preheat your oven to 250 degrees. Start by slicing your oranges and lemons into 1/4" slices. Place them on cookie sheets. I reccommend using parchment paper to prevent sticking

Place them in the oven for 1 hour. Flip the slices, and bake for another hour. If they are still too moist, flip them over and go another half hour. Do this until they are very thin and dry.

In the meantime grab your spices and some plastic baggies.

I am using some pumpkin gift bags that I scored on Target clearance a few years ago.

Inside I will place my sandwich baggies full of spices. Add about 5 cinnamon sticks, 3 Tablespoons of whole cloves, 2 Tablespoons of whole Allspice, 1 Tablespoon of Ground Nutmeg, and 1 Tablespoon of ground Cinnamon.

In a separate baggie, place your dried and cooled fruit slices. I used 2 orange, and 3 lemon slices in each bag.

Tuck both baggies into whatever container you choose. You could do this with any brown paper bag. And you are done! Now time to package.

I create a very simple word doc with easy directions on how to use the simmering spices. I also grabbed some spooky kraft tags, and some dyed seam binding.

Be sure to tell your recipients what they will need to do in order to enjoy the fabulous fall aroma!

Once I cut the directions, I slipped them into each bag.

Then simple hold punch two holes into the top of the bag.

I tied the orange seam binding through and into a knot. Then I tied my tags to that.

That's it! These gifts will bring such joy to this spooky halloween night.

I dressed up a metal basket, and these gifts are ready to head out the door with my children in the morning.

Thanks for stopping by. I hope you enjoyed my tutorial.

Be sure to check out all of the parties I link up to by clicking here.

New update on my weight loss {Breathing In The Moment}

2012-10-26T13:13:00.003-07:00

My progress has been absolutely amazing, and I want to share it all with you! So head over to Breathing In The Moment to read all about it!!

I'm hoping to be back this weekend with some crafty updates! We've actually been getting some fun stuff done around the house!!

Weigh-In & Updates

2012-10-22T10:48:00.000-07:00

Today is my 4th day on my 24 Day Challenge. Head over to Breathing In The Moment to see my amazing progress!!

Thank you readers for being to amazing to me!!

Come visit me {Sugarbee Crafts}

2012-10-19T10:35:00.001-07:00

Today is the 3rd Friday of the month.  Do  you know what that means?

It means I am over at Sugarbee Crafts for my Party Contributor post!!  

See you there!!   Right?!?!

Ok, fine, here is a sneak peek of what is going on over there.

 Head on over here now!  :)

Breathing in the moment {New Blog}

2012-10-17T21:45:00.000-07:00

Hello to all of my fabulous readers! I cannot tell you how thankful I am
 for your support with my new journey!  With that said, I am going to be
 posting the first few posts on this site, but not forever.  I am hoping
 you will head over to my new site "Breathing in the Moment" and follow me over there.

 So for now, here is a link to my newest post!  Getting Prepared for Lift Off 

Head on over and say hello! Your support means the world to me!

Removing my Fat Suit {Advocare Style}

2012-10-15T00:54:00.002-07:00

Notice: If you are looking for fun Party posts or DIY goods... you may want to skip this post. This is about to get personal.

Have you ever noticed that I avoid pictures at all cost? Well here is why. Grab a nice cold drink, and enjoy the story. Well that is if you chose to keep reading.

(200Lbs in 2005)

Let's go back to the beginning. As a child I never considered myself to be "fat", however I was always bigger than most of my girlfriends. I come from a BIG family, by big I mean most members on my Dad's side are 5'9"-6'6"! And well built.

The hard part is that I am the only family member on either side that would be considered "obese" (I hate that term, but it's life) I always feel like the outcast, and like a let down to my family. My Grandpa always worries about my weight, and It's completely out of love and care. He is getting older now, and his health has taken a few steps back over the last few years, and I really want him to see me do this!

(Krista and I, October 13th 2012)

I went through high school pretty happy with myself. I never felt that I needed to be on a diet, but I was never a bikini boaster. I was me, and I still am Me.

My senior year of high school I met my husband. It was love at first sight, I will have to share that story another time. Well you know what happens when you fall in love and over the years you get pretty comfortable with each other? Well then you start to get comfortable with the weight as well. I didn't gain a ton, but probably went up one pant size and gained 15-20 pounds. No Big deal, I was still so very happy with who I was.

(My husband, Son and I, 2007)

Then came baby. In 2002 I got pregnant with our son. I gained 56 pounds.... it was awful. Once he was born he never breast fed, which was even worse. I tried to lose the weight, but with the new baby which then became a toddler, I just didn't have it in me. I felt like a load of mass that couldn't help myself. I topped the scales at 260 pounds! ( I cannot believe I am posting this on here)

(Me and my sister in-law, 2007)

Then in 2004 I got pregnant with our daughter. I was already 260 pounds and was terrified that I was going to gain a mass amount once again. However in the first trimester I lost about 10 pounds. The day I went in to give birth I weighed 271 pounds! Eek, but she was also a 9 pound baby!

(Me and Michael Maloney, 2008)

About 2 weeks after I had her I decided it was time to get my rear in gear. I started walking about 5 miles a day and eating all healthy, clean and fresh foods. Within 3 months I had lost 69 pounds! I was down to 202 pounds! No gimmicks, no shakes, just good old fashioned weight loss. Breastfeeding played a HUGE part and I will get to that in a minute.

(Our wedding day 2005 at 200 Pounds!)

I felt amazing to say the least. Life went on, and BAM a storm rolled in and took my life by surprise. I was completely betrayed by my best friend of 15 years. I was mortified and sent into a very deep depression, and started packing on the pounds.

(2009)

Over the course of 3 years I would cry and eat, and cry and eat... I went on medication that gave me migraines, so I had to quit taking it of course. It took me a long time to re-gain trust and heal from my wounds. I have come a LONG way mentally, but physically I am still at that road block.

(My husband and I 2008)

I love my husband dearly, and was able to sort through things with him, and it actually made us closer. As for the friend, we have not spoken since that day, nor will we ever. I hate to be that way, but she is not a woman I would EVER trust in my life ever again. Some women just want what others have, and will go great lengths to get there.... can I get an AMEN?

(Roloff Farms 2007)

Onto today! The weight is still there, and in fact it's gotten higher! It's like my body won't let go. I'm wearing this suit that is my shield from life. But as of today, I am D.O.N.E! I am miserable. I wake up in pain, I have zero energy, and am just downright unhappy.

(Amy Roloff with Me and Gabi 2007)

I always ask myself WHY am I unhappy? I have a great job, great family, great husband, amazing home, my own business, money... everything is great... so WHY?!?!

(Me and My sister 2008)

It is because I am not living the life I should be. I am trapped inside this fat suit, and I need out. I used to be very outgoing.... not anymore. I'm tired of being bottled up. I'm ready to come out.

(2006)

So if you are still with me... I am inviting you to join me on my journey! I am going to document every step of the way. Weigh-In's once a week, and Lot's of pictures, menu's and tips.

(Heather and I with Phil & Amy Parham from The Biggest Loser in 2009)

I am done with the old me, ready for new!!

(Me and My sister in 2008)

And before you go, my inspiration came from Shelley over at House of Smiths! She is a doll, and I look up to her in so many ways. More than she will ever know. She herself has lost so much weight in the last year, go check it out!! And as a bonus, I get to meet her in April at SNAP! I haven't set my weight loss goal for that date, but you better bet it's gonna be a big one!!!

Shelley today!

So here's to the removal of my fat suit!!! So long sista!!

So head on over to my new blog "Breathing in the Moment" to follow me on my journey one step at a time!

Hutch Makeover {Thrifted Gem}

2012-10-05T22:11:00.002-07:00

 It's been about a year since I snagged this beauty  diamond in the rough at my local thrift store!   I brought it into the space in the middle of the winter, so I simply put it to use trying to ignore the "old" factor.

I snagged this baby for $70, but wait! It gets better.... it was on half price special!!  After zero hesitation, I walked ran to the register and screamed... I WANT IT!!!   $35?!?!?   Crazy right?

It sat until I discovered Chalk Paint!  I realized I didn't to tape everything off, and that I could paint it in place!   Score!  So this past weekend I got to work. 

First to start clearing it out. 

Which left heaps of very pretty and colorful dishes on my kitchen table.   I could stare at them forever, but let's move on....

I did bring in my painters tarp to protect my flooring.  But I will be honest, I can't stand that floor and am anxiously awaiting the day we get to rip in out. 

And I got to work painting.  I used my DIY Chalk Paint recipe, along with Behr Creamy White flat paint.  It took me 2 coats to get the coverage I was after.  I finished it off with Annie Sloan clear wax.

I left the back blank for a reason... onto that in a minute. When choosing the color I was really wanting to go with a fun color to pop against my walls.  

But being that I am a Fiestaware collecting fool, I chose white so that my dishes were the "pop" of color.   However I did not want a plain old boring white nothing to it hutch.... thus leading us to the next step!

CON-TACT Paper!!!!   I found some amazing choices of this fun self adhesive shelf liner, but went with a more classic approach.  Also a neutral color to help with the fore mentioned "pop" of color.

Here she is!  I chose to keep the original hardware to give it the shabby appeal.   

Check out the POP!!!  :)  I'm loving every.single.detail on this piece!

It was a quick post, but I truly want to thank you for stopping by!!!   Don't forget to check out all of the parties I like to link up to by clicking here! 

Classic Art Party {6th Birthday}

2012-09-23T17:14:00.000-07:00

Oh Man what a week!   I'm going to backtrack to last Friday when I jumped on a jet plane to go be with my sick grandmother in Arizona.  I spent Friday-Sunday in Phoenix, and hopped back on a plane home Monday night.

Headed back to work Tuesday-Thursday and then volunteered at the school all day Friday to help with School Pictures.  Which... was a BLAST!   Loved all those kiddos cute faces and fancy outfits, and also my awesome partner in crime for the day, Krista!!

Friday night was spent preparing for the party as well as the tailgater.  Woke up Saturday, had to deliver stuff to a client, prep food for football, and then headed to the ball park at 3pm.  And was there until 1:30am!!!   Eek!

Came home, climbed into bed for a few hours, then it was up bright and early to decorate for the party I am about to show you!    How on earth did I do it?  I haven't a clue.  But I've got great support and great friends to help me every step of the way!!  Oh and I hired help with several of the birthday party decorations.  That was a blessing for sure!

Ok, now onto the amazing Art Party! 

**DISCLAIMER**  Picture Overload... continue reading at your own risk!

The party was held on my parents back patio, and using the pop up tent sides worked great to close in the space!

I hope you enjoyed the party as much a we all did!  Head on over to FACEBOOK if you want more information on the printables available for purchase.

Don't forget to check all of the parties I link up to each week! 

Guest Posting at Sugar Bee Crafts

2012-09-21T15:28:00.003-07:00

 Today I'm blogging over at Sugar Bee Crafts!!  Head over there and see whats going on!!

Big News {SNAP 2013}

2012-09-19T06:00:00.000-07:00

Yep that's right!!  This blogger registered for her first ever blog conference! SNAP 2013!!  I am so excited to meet so many of my favorite bloggers, and learn all there is to know in this fast paced blog world.

It's not until April so I will do my best to keep my posts of excitement limited.... no promises!  

But the good news only gets better!  I am now a contributor on Sugar Bee Crafts.  Pinch me, because I feel like this is some sort of a dream.  I will be sharing Party related posts every third Friday of the month.  So look for me over there start on the 21st of September!  Mandy is so fun, and I will also get to meet her at SNAP 2013!  Double bonus.   

Other news in my life and reasons for the lack of posting:

1- Children Went back to school 

2- Children brought home lovely illnesses from school

3-Flew to Arizona on a whim to be with my sick Grandmother

4-4 yes 4 tailgaters in a row, every single weekend in September 

5-I still have to work full time and care for my children

BLAH!  Things are somewhat back to normal, and so should the blog!!

Coming up this weekend we have one more tailgater, and then Sunday I am throwing an Art Party for my nephew.  So stay tuned for that.

Curious George Party {new business launch}

2012-08-22T17:38:00.002-07:00

This last weekend I was asked to throw a 2nd birthday party for my second cousin's son.

On our family vacation back in May, my cousin had mentioned that they were wanting to have a Curious George party, and asked if I wanted to help out. Ok, first of all, I was thrilled to have the opportunity to help, second… Hello Curious George!! If you didn’t know before… I have a major obsession with that little monkey. Just check out my scrapbook room by clicking here.

I took so many pictures and had such a blast. So enjoy the photos, and stay tuned for the big news at the end!!

Whew that was a lot of fun!! It truly was as much fun as it looks like it was.

The party was out on my Aunt and Uncles beautiful farm in Beavercreek Oregon, and the weather was absolutely perfect!

So are you ready for the news?? I have decided to start my own Party Planning business. I have enjoy every aspect of the party planning process, and cannot wait to start this adventure, and create one of a kind events for clients.

The name you ask? Posh Parties by One Thrifty Chick

I have a great team I am working with. I’ve got a wonderfully talented Graphic Designer Heather, cake decorator Bonnie, and my mother as my seamstress!

Head on over to my Facebook fan page and check out all of the events we have done so far! Also, please leave feedback if you have attended any of those Posh Parties!

I look forward to sharing this adventure with all of my great readers. I do what I do because of all of you!!

See you soon!

One more thing..... don't forget to check out all of the amazing blog parties I like to link up to by clicking here.

Living Room Reveal {small changes}

2012-07-29T12:28:00.002-07:00

I am so excited to finally be able to reveal a little project I have been working on for a few weeks.

If you follow me on Facebook, then you got to see this reveal picture:

My living room has always been the one room that seemed finished. So why oh why did I go and mess it all up? Well… I went shopping at my favorite local home décor shop called Real Deals. All my local readers should go check it out, I PROMISE you will not be dissapointed. And Jamie the owner is amazing! Check out her facebook page by clicking here.

Ok… so I was in there one day and saw this set of 3 absolutely adorable lamps.

(see the pattern in the sneak peek photo) I only bought one, because truly, I did not need even one more lamp. I thought it would look great on my dresser in my bedroom .

So I bought it, got it home and realized it was too tall. *shaking fist to the sky… I REALLY wanted this lamp!

I had no idea what I was going to do with the lamp, and was so bummed out. My girlfriend Heather just happened to mention… “hey, put it in your living room”

My eyes lit up with excitement, as I hauled the lamp out there. It was like fireworks in my head. I had a vision, and just started to work. The rest is history…. so here you go.

BEFORE:

AFTER:

These are a few entry way photos, and of my finished family command center:

It’s just so inviting when you open the front door!

Ok back to some of the other details.

This is a group of thrifted candle holders that got a shabby coat of Rustoleum Heirloom White spray paint, with the exception of the green ceramic one. I grabbed that off of the half price rack at Real Deals… cost me $4.50!

These amazing frames and accessories are also from Real Deals… I am telling you, stop what you are doing and run over there. Wait!! Finish reading this first, please!

I found this old window, the shelf and jars all at thrift stores, and then scored the adorable metal cart at a garage sale for $2!!! Oh man I was excited, and my husband did not hesitate loading it up either. He is great!

Below my gallery wall is a console table that opens up into a desk. I never open it up, but I do use it for storage. On top is where our phone is, and where I keep all of our bills and such. I recently purchased several items from the Martha Stewart office line, and got myself super organized.

Inside my aqua notebook, I have my menu plan, calendar, bill pay schedule, and my blog planner. My white “file” box is where I file all paid bills and and other home documents I need to keep. It’s beauty with a purpose! Love!

If you noticed in my before pictures, my end tables were the same color as the wood floor. They are now heirloom white. They probably made the biggest impact on the room, and I could not be happier.

I have also started a collection of white pitchers. The large one in the back was given to me from my great friend Krista, and the rest were purchased from various thrift stores. Both of the vintage jars were garage sale finds.

I purchased the new white curtains from IKEA, and instantly knew they were perfect for this room. I sprayed the medallions on the wall in heirloom white. (are you surprised?)

More goodies on the mantel that I purchased from Real Deals.

I am in love with all of my thrifty transformations, and the final color scheme of the room. It is so much brighter, and makes me happy every time I walk into the room.

Thanks so much for stopping by, and don’t forget to check out all of the parties I link up to by clicking here.

DIY Rustic Fence Backdrop {Tutorial}

2012-07-10T09:47:00.001-07:00

Another ARMY post, are you tired of them yet?

When I was planning the design I knew I was going to need a backdrop of some sort. I started racking my brain.

I thought about burlap, then chain link fence, and then it hit me. Use the old fence boards stacked on the side of the house!

It was just what I was wanting. So I started gathering supplies and put them on the deck where I planned on building my wall.

I used about 18 fence boards, 2 furring strips, and a bunch of wood screws.

The boards were all super gross and dirty, and some started breaking as I screwed them in. But to me this adds character.

I laid my furring strips parallel on the deck, and used a 2x4 along the bottom to insure a straight edge. Then I just started screwing them on. Each board took 2 screws.

Here it is all put together.

Once it was all put together, I sprayed it down with the hose, and started scrubbing to wash off some of the gunk.

Once I finished, I propped it up against my garden fence to dry. I left it there for about 2 days. It was nice and dry, and ready to use!

It was exactly what I wanted! Now that the party is over, I have this fence panel sitting in my back yard.

I know I will come up with something to use it on, but for now, it’s part of the kids’ fort.

Thanks for stopping by! Be sure and check out all of the places I like to link up to by clicking here.

DIY MRE Meal Kits {Free Printable}

2012-07-06T13:47:00.000-07:00

By now most of you are familiar with my sons ARMY party. Today’s post is all about the food.

When you think of ARMY what food do you think of? I know I think of those brown package’s dropped from the sky. The real term for them is an MRE Meal Ready to Eat.

All you do is add water and you have a delightful meal. I thought for the party I could order some online, but I also thought the kids really might not like what’s inside.

So what does this crafty mom do? Design my own! Ok, well I found the design I wanted, and then handed it over to my trusty best friend Heather to do her graphic design magic. Yes, truly magic!!

She found the most perfect fonts, and created these in no time.

I had her design two, one that says Ham, and one that says Turkey.

I found the perfect brown food boxes at our local restaurant supply store Cash & Carry. Some places it is called Smart & Final. I think I got a sleeve of 100 for $14.00.

Inside the boxes I created perfect meal kits for growing 9 year old boys.

Build your own sandwiches. Each kit had 2 slices of bread, one slice of cheese, and two slices of meat. Each in their own baggies to prevent soggy bread. As for condiments I purchased individual packets of mayonnaise and mustard from my local mini mart. I think I paid 10 cents each.

Each kit also got a squeeze applesauce, granola bar, bag of chips and a wet nap! It was the perfect combo for the boot campers!

With the warm weather and these active boys, I made the call to serve ice cold water. Now, not just plain old water, but ARMY water. What’s ARMY water you ask??

ARMY water is nothing other than old fashioned tap water (we have excellent water here in Oregon) served in authentic military canteens!!

These were a HUGE hit! I chose to use a sharpie to write names, rather than a label, due to the fact that I knew they would get pretty wet and gross during the course of the day.

Here is the best part of this post! I have the printable MRE labels available for FREE!! You can use them with the Avery labels ???? or full sheet labels and just cut them out.

All you need to do is click on the link below, and print!!

MRE Ham MRE Turkey

Thanks for stopping by to visit. Be sure and check out all of the places I like to link up to by clicking here.

DIY Screen Printing

2012-07-01T00:08:00.000-07:00

As part of my sons ARMY birthday party I wanted to create some special treats for each of the kids to take home as party favors.

I knew the ARMY shirts were a must for this occasion. I used the DIY screen printing method, using Freezer Paper.

You will need:

Freezer Paper

Cotton T-shirt

Iron

Tulip Fabric Paint

Craft cutter (or you can draw your own, and use an exacto knife to cut it out)

I started by using my Gypsy to create the design I was wanting. Remember that you will need to flip the design, this is called a mirror image.

Next I cut my freezer paper into 12x12 sheets to fit on my cricut mat

You will need to place your freezer paper on the mat paper side down. Which means the shiny side will face up.

Once your design is cut, you will remove it from the mat, being careful that you don’t tear your design. Do not throw any of the pieces out, keep them all!! Trust me!!

This is what you should be left with on the mat. You have now created your stencil.

Lay your T-shirt out on the ironing board, and then place your stencil (shiny side down) in the place you would like the screen printing to be.

Using your iron, carefully press onto the design. It will lightly adhere to the shirt.

You will then need to grab any of the smaller pieces of your design to complete the centers. (not everyone will have this.)

Carefully iron those on. Then using your iron, go over the entire design to insure a good seal on all edges.

MOST IMPORTANT DETAIL: Place a piece of cardboard inside of the T-shirt. If you do not, your paint will go through to the back of the shirt. Not good friends, not good!

You are now ready to apply the paint. I used Tulip Fabric Paint, found at Michaels near all of the tye-dye supplies. It works great, and is washable.

Using a foam brush, you will dab light amounts onto the shirt inside the stencil area. Be careful not to brush too hard, or you will tear and lift your design.

I find it best to brush (if you have to) away from the edges. Just be careful!

Once you have applied paint over the entire design, you are ready to remove the stencil. Do not wait for it to dry. Again, just be careful.

You can leave the shirt laying flat, or hand it to dry. You will want it to dry for at least 12 hours.

And there you have it. Your own T-shirt screen printing.

Come back soon to see all of the other details of this Army party!

Starting over.......

2012-06-27T13:40:00.000-07:00

That sounds a little more dramatic that is really is.  I just feel like I have come to a point in life where I just need a fresh start.

I am not talking crazy changes, I just want simple.

My life has been turned upside down a couple of times in the past 2 years, and there comes a point where enough is enough.  With that said, I am still waiting on results from my Doctor... so here's to hoping I don't get turned upside down again....

I absolutely without a doubt LOVE my blog, and all of my readers (yes YOU!!) and I plan to focus more on this baby.  I am constantly doing things that I never blog about, and need to be better at documenting those things.

So, here is my plan of attack!  I am working on a BIG list of things I need want to have finished up or changed at our house.  I am giving myself ONE year to complete this list, because... drum roll please........   WE ARE DOING THE KITCHEN IN ONE YEAR!!!!   

We decided (with some convincing from a certain person) that we would put off the kitchen remodel for one more year, so that instead of just re-doing what we already have, we are going to add on!  I will get a bigger kitchen!!!  Folks this is crazy exciting news.

I am sure there will be plenty of blood sweat and tears along the way, but if it means no more butt bumping in the kitchen, I am all for it!!

Our best friends are visiting us from California right now, and Wes is pretty savvy when it comes to home construction and repairs.  He has offered to come up next year on his 3 week vacation and help with the remodel!  Oh My and I excited!!!

So until then, I at going to button down the hatches, save money (hahaha  I crack myself up) and finish up 

our punch list of TO DO'S!

Wes was here for 2 days, before he already made an AMAZING repair on our home!!!  Can't wait to share soon!! 

Friends are the greatest, and we love this family so much!!  So thank you Kellison's!!!

And here is to a fresh start of a completed, organized and simple life!!!

Carnival Party {With Shine}

2012-06-16T19:38:00.000-07:00

Today we were FINALLY able to celebrate our daughters 7th Birthday.  Her actual birthday is on May 4th, but life happens and our attention was needed elsewhere.

However, the original party date that we had to cancel got rained out anyways, so I consider it a blessing in disguise.  Right?

We did a carnival party for my nephew in September, and my daughter had so much fun that she wanted the same thing.  So this mom got creative and came up with ways to add some girly flair.  

Pictures say a thousand words, so please enjoy them.  And if you have any questions about details, please do ask!

Now this momma is exhausted.  Time to take a hot shower, and put my feet up!!

Thanks for stopping by!!

p.s. I love comments.... just sayin' ;)