porch dwellings

fur-spiration

2011-09-30T19:30:00.001-05:00

About a year ago, I went to New Orleans for the first time. Unfortunately, it was for work and I didn't get much play time, but I managed to drop by a couple shops on Magazine Street. I walked into a little shop and immediately fell in L-O-V-E with this fur stool. I even think my mouth dropped and I might have drooled slightly. But I was slapped back to reality when I saw the price tag. $700 WHAT?!

Recently, I went back to New Orleans, again for work. (Note to self: book a trip to New Orleans for FUN!) And guess what?... The stool was still there and not on sale. Upsetting.

I don't have a cool table to place this stool under yet. And, well, I don't have $700 to drop on a stool so I decided to make my own. I found these two little stools at a local antique store. Two is better than one, right? And I found this fur at First Monday in Canton, Texas. All my supplies totaled a mere $80.

I simply marked the fur on the hide side about an inch wider than the stool seat template. And I took my trusty staple gun and fired away!

After I finished both seats, I screwed them back in and wa-la!

I am blown away. I am in love with them and the best part...I still have enough fur left to make a good, large size pillow! I can't wait to make that next. I saved $620. Got two stools and eventually a pillow. Whoa.

fall's debut and tv premiers

2011-09-21T13:55:00.000-05:00

I adore the season that is fall. It is by far my favorite time of the year! And this year, I've already got high expectations for fall.

The first official day of fall is actually on September 23rd this year, but the first signs of fall in my book are cooler weather and new season premiers of my favorite TV shows and some new shows that I am sure to fall in love with too!

On my must see list, you'll find:

MONDAY

TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY

FRIDAY

SATURDAY

this day is reserved for COLLEGE FOOTBALL!!

Now there are many new shows coming out this season that I'm going to try and hope that if I like them, they don't get canceled after a couple episodes or one season. Crossing fingers now for...

Now, after posting all these shows, it appears that I have no life other than work and my nightly date with the couch and remote but thanks to DVR, I do have a life and this fills up my down time during the week or on rainy days.

Welcome back, fall. I'm going to really enjoy you this year!

spreading hope

2011-08-22T15:45:00.001-05:00

Today, I want to tell you about one of my Kappa Delta pledge sisters and a recent Tulsa transplant. Amanda and I first met while auditioning and practing many late hours for "Freshman Follies" and from then on we have remained friends. We went our separate ways after school but those ways eventually found us both in Tulsa--for me it's back in Tulsa, as this is my hometown.

Recently, I found out that Amanda was diagnosed with stage two breast cancer. She is 25 years young! And this just shows that breast cancer doesn't know age, race or even gender. It has no boundaries. Despite the scary diagnosis and all that comes with it, Amanda has held her head high and says, "I realize this is just another chapter in my life and I'm hoping to end it quickly!" Her spirit is awesome and inspiring.

Another Kappa Delta sister, Christina, formed a Race for the Cure team for the Tulsa race on September 17th. I participate in this event every year because I enjoy running and that this particular event is focused around and supports women’s health. However, this year I’m more emotionally involved. Those of us who live in or around Tulsa will be participating on race day, including Kappa Delta's, friends and family. If you are in Tulsa or will be visiting the area, feel free to join our team (Amanda's Team).

Now...I don't really like asking for money, but this is a good cause and hits close to home so I'm willing to do what it takes!

Collectively, we are asking for donations to not only support Amanda and our team's fundraising, but to help with this fight against breast cancer as a whole. To make a donation to me or our team, please click here.

We have also designed a t-shirt and tank top for race day fun and if you’d like to purchase one, you can click here. Each t-shirt or tank top purchased donates $5.00 to Amanda’s Team. We will deliver/ship them to you when they are printed. Whatever it takes to get them to you!

By making a donation to me or the team or by purchasing a t-shirt, you are supporting local breast cancer screening, treatment, education and outreach that will lead us to a world without breast cancer.

My personal goal is to raise at least $150.00 before race day, but donations are accepted until October 15th. Will you help me get there? Your donations are tax deductible, too!

Thanks and love to all of you!

P.S. If you want to pass this on to other friends and family that might be willing to help our fight, it would be greatly appreciated.

working from home

2011-08-11T20:54:00.001-05:00

I have dreams of one day working from home and I find myself admiring wonderful and dreamy workspaces. I need a space that will be cluttered with the right things and something that will give me continual inspiration and motivation.
I love that I can put everything away at the end of the day with these secretaries. The storage space is great for a busy working girl's stuff.

The bold green color and the ever-present leopard just melt my heart. I could walk into the "office" everyday and smile because I'd be surrounded by my favorite colors...green and leopard!

Simple and rustic. Just like me.

I'm all about teamwork. Two heads are better than one, right? The bench instead of the traditonal chair feels inviting and roomy.

(all the above images are via Pintrest)

Now, this desk. Whoa! That's all I have. This is it. My dream desk!

I don't know where I found this one, but it's just been stored on my phone.

jungle fever

2011-08-08T21:23:00.001-05:00

As fall approaches, all I can think about is leopard...I am woman. Hear me ROAR! And then check out some great outfits with touches of leopard. All perfect for fall!

All images via Pintrest (which is my new obsession so you will be seeing more Pintrest from me in the future!)

a shout from the rooftop

2011-07-15T10:30:00.003-05:00

Last weekend, my parents hosted an engagement party for Blake and me. It sure was a fabulous way to kick off the events that will happen between now and the wedding. The turnout was great, just family and close friends. The setting was an evening to night spent on a rooftop on Cherry Street (or 15th Street). The night was filled with great (homemade) appetizers, desserts and drinks. I couldn't have asked for anything better. So hats off to you mom and dad and thank you for a wonderful party. You were superb hosts. Let's do this more often! Oh and I'd like to give a special thanks to Ashley, Luke, Morgan, Evan and Brooke for coming out of town to join us for this special and fun evening.

There are more pictures, but I can't add them all here...that's just overwhelming! Point being...we had a FABULOUS time! And you can check out the Tulsa World engagement announcement (it landed in the paper Sunday after the party--July10, 2011)!

seat change

2011-07-11T20:33:00.000-05:00

In an effort to brighten and liven my dining room (and with a limited budget at this point in my life), I started with the chairs. The table, chairs and bakers rack were all given to me by my Grandma Dixie and they are perfect for my space (that is, until I find the most precious refractory or pub table with chairs and have the money to spend!), but after living with the bland browns, tans and whites for almost two years, I needed a change and pop of color. Plans are in the works for other dining room fix-me-ups, but for now I'm starting with the easiest and cheapest project--a seat change!

I was at the fabric store a couple weekends ago and browsed through bolts, swatches, samples and remnants galore. I landed on the perfect color and pattern and just couldn't pass it up. Isn't it stunning?

Not to mention, I've been obsessed with ikat patterns for a while now so I might have just been waiting for the perfect color/pattern combination. The simplicity of this particular pattern and it's orange-red color were perfect for, not only a pop of color, but the zing I was looking to add in my eating space.
I purchased one yard and went about my day. A couple days later, I was anxious to get measuring, cutting, folding, stapling and changing the drab tan fabric and that's when it hit me. I was short fabric. So back to the fabric store I go. Another shot of anxiousness and away we went--with a little help from my mom.
Cut. Fold. Unfold because it's creasing. Fold. Hold. Staple. Repeat.

And WAH-LAH! Makes a big difference, huh?! Until next time...pick your seat and hold on tight.

xoxo,

Linds

FYI: My next dining room project is going to be a little more researching and time consuming, but I promise to post when I get started or completed, or both. It's going to be huge, people and I can't wait!

morning mixed drink

2011-06-21T10:08:00.000-05:00

There is no doubt that summer is here. It's hotter than, well, it's freaking hot in Tulsa. Over the past week we have experienced heat indices in the 100s+. I'm not complaining, really. I would take this over bitter, freezing cold any day, but geez, it's brutal sometimes.

Last summer, I indulged in Starbucks' VIA cold brew coffee almost every morning. But at $5.95 (+tax) 6-pack box, it added up. Not to mention the trips to Starbucks, Java Dave's, Coffee House on Cherry Street (my new favorite!), I would spend $5.00+ per drink and my pocketbook didn't appreciate that whatsoever. I have been missing my coffee fix a little this summer because I just refuse to keep spending money on cold coffee drinks and I sure as heck can't put down a hot drink in 90 degree weather at 8 am.

That is...until this weekend. My mom shared with me the Pioneer Woman's "Perfect Iced Coffee" receipe. Oh my gosh! Mom even went the extra step and bought all the ingredients, prepared it and on Sunday morning, I indulged in what the Pioneer Woman calls "Vietnamese Iced Coffee" and I'm in love. It's just plain old coffee (the stronger the better) and a couple table spoons of sweetened condensed milk. You need to try this and if you don't like that, well you can be old fashioned and splash in some milk or half and half and sugar. Either way, it's delicious, in my fridge, and cold. (Oh and at no cost to me...at least this time.) Now get to cold brewin'!

Thanks to my mom for saving my life this summer and keeping me sane...that is until my pitcher pours it's last drop. Then I'll be back for more. And at least once a week or so, I visit the Coffee House on Cherry Street for my new favorite concoction--Iced Dirty Chai Latte. It's a little chai, a little espresso and lots of deliciousness. Yummy. If you ever visit me or anyone else in Tulsa, you need to go and try it. Genius.

xoxo,
Iced Coffee Lover

birthday wishes for my sis

2011-06-20T13:53:00.003-05:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY COURTNEY!

You're a wonderful young lady with a BIG heart and an even better sister. We have memories to last a lifetime and many more to come. I'm so thankful for you and everything you are to me!

Orange Beach, Alabama 2008

Estes Park, Colorado 2010

I hope your birthday on the golf course is successful as well as the rest of the week. Good luck in the tournament and best wishes for your birthday!

Here's to you...CHEERS!

Oh and guess what?! Chicken butt...

life unexpected

2011-06-16T19:58:00.002-05:00

I forgot my username and password...er...my dog ate my compter. Uhhh...okay, I lie. But I am back from my unexpected blogging hiatus. Fortunately, everything is perfect in my life, and I haven't been away because of something bad happening. And my hiatus is not due to lack of information, projects, or life. It's just with all the work, wedding planning and somewhat of a social life, I didn't manage to post a blog whatsoever. I will polish my time management skills so this doesn't happen again!
I've also been thinking about the direction I want to take my blog and I'm not sure I have it nailed down, but at least I'm back in action!

Keep your eyes peeled for a view from my porch!

loving love

2011-02-13T17:11:00.003-06:00

Being a newly engaged lady, I have thought about many wedding details - cake, venue, guest list, dinner, drinks, dancing, "i do", something borrowed, old, new and blue. But what happens after the wedding and dreamy honeymoon? Who will do the dishes? Who is going to take on the mountains of laundry? What about the dust bunnies that aggressively reproduce on the baseboards? Is he/she clean? Does he/she notice when something is out of place? Then I started to think about other engaged friends and newlyweds. Have they thought about their fiance or spouse and their ~~habits~~ qualities they bring to the relationship table?

Below are random questions I came up with to test your knowledge on the little things about your significant other. In the end, it's the little things...right? Have fun with it. If you're feeling a little competitive you and your other can fill these out and compare answers to see who gets the most right about each other!

1. How does your other feel about eating in bed?
_____Great! He/She would do it every meal if they could.
_____Only for a "just because" romantic breakfast
_____Too messy to even contemplate
2. What nicknames has your other gone by, from childhood on?
________________________________________________
3. Which of your relatives does your other like the best?
_____Mom
_____Dad
_____Sibling: which one?_____________________________
_____Grandparent: which one?_________________________
_____Aunt/Uncle: which one?__________________________
4. Do they have a favorite color? If so, what is it?
________________________________________________
5. How does your other get dressed?
_____top to bottom (bra, undershirt, etc)
_____bottom to top (undies/boxers, socks, pants, etc)
6. What artist is playing in your other's car?
________________________________________________
7. Is there an athlete, movie/tv star or someone else famous your other would like to meet? Who?
________________________________________________
8. How many children does your other want? Any names yet?
________________________________________________
9.You bake your other a dessert for their birthday. What is it?
_____Cookies
_____Brownies
_____Cake
_____Pie
_____Other
10. Where was your first kiss? Who initiated it?
________________________________________________
11. What is your other's shoe size?
________________________________________________
12. What was your other's first job?
________________________________________________
13. In what city was your other born?
________________________________________________
14. How does your other take their eggs?
_____Over-hard
_____Over-medium
_____Sunny side up
_____Scrambled
_____Omlet
_____Egg white only
_____Other (is there another way?)

you can find me in St. Louis...

2011-02-11T10:54:00.001-06:00

This week my job brought me to St. Louis for the Association of Fraternal Leadership and Values, also known as AFLV. It's a conference for Greek leaders to come and absorb knowledge about leading their Greek communities. This is my first year coming to this conference and I'm having so much fun. I will get to chat with many Kappa Delta's at the affiliation luncheon today and I'm excited about that. Plus, St. Louis is a fun city and we are going to enjoy some fine Italian on "the Hill" tonight. Yummy!

There is no place like home and I look forward to a busy week of work in Tulsa and then a weekend in Dallas with my mom, sister and girlfriends!

bane of my existence

2011-02-07T17:07:00.000-06:00

Last Sunday, I flew to New Orleans for work. I was supposed to return to Tulsa on Tuesday afternoon. As the hours passed by on Monday night and Tuesday, the weatherman kept upping the percentage of precipation in the form of snow. These predictions turned into reality, which in turn, left me stuck halfway home in Houston for a night because Tulsa International Airport shut down for the "artic blast". After three cancelled morning flights, two beers, and an additional hour delay my flight departed for Tulsa and I landed safely on Wednesday. It was more than safe. I believe this is one of the best landings in my flying history and it was on snow! (Thank You, Southwest Airlines for Captain Debbie. She was awesome!) I returned home to snow covering the ground and people walking in the street. My fiance liked to call it a zombie land. I have to say that I enjoyed the untouched perfection of my backyard and the fact that "Boss" was waist deep in it all and still cheering on the hogs!

Blake has a big heart for those stuck and spinning. He called me on Tuesday to say that he and his brother acquired a tow rope and were helping those who were ~~stupid enough to drive~~ stuck on the roads. We discussed how it isn't smart to drive in this weather, even with 4-wheel drive sometimes. He even rescued a policeman. What a guy! As we drove down the roads, we commented on 99% of those we passed and I think he helped about 50% - he can only do so much, people. The shot below was him and another gentleman rocking a car until it was free from it's rut.

Blake was also kind enough to shovel my sidewalk and fling some salt around so it won't freeze again. Thank you very much dear, but these little minerals have become the bane of my existence.

They have attempted war on my hardwoods and the vacuum is on standby ready to suck up any mineral that enters the front door. I spent some of my ~~work-free~~ weekend on my hand and knees, Cindrella style, wiping my floor to remove foot and paw prints created by the salty water that now occupies my sidewalk.

And all that for...guess what?!? Another forecast of eight to ten inches from Tuesday evening to Wednesday afternoon. Gosh, that fifty-five degrees on Sunday looks wonderful.

I loved the first couple days of this stuff, but I bet my ~~chauffeur~~ fiance is done playing chauffeur and frankly, I'm done feeling helpless and, in a sense, trapped. I'm happy to be back at work, going to the gym, running errands in my own car, getting into the routine I once had. That is, if the non-four-wheel drive Jeep Grand Cherokee can hold up in the snow-covered neighborhoods. Crossing fingers for success and signing off.

right now.

2011-01-28T09:13:00.000-06:00

My job requires that I travel at the beginning of every semester to get in touch with college kids, er, my clients. It's a fun job, really, because I get to be on college campuses across the country and hang out with people ~~my age~~ in their twenties. This could keep me youthful, right?
I would like to apologize to my readers for my absense and I will try and do better with more frequent posts about my life's happenings or lack thereof.
I have only one more university trip this semester and then a couple tradeshows, a shopping weekend and a friend's wedding. Then it will be March! This year is going to fly by. Not to mention, Blake and I have a wedding to plan. Although many things are falling into place just as we wanted them too, there are still many details to be discovered, discussed and decided upon. Don't you worry, I have my very organized wedding binder full of ideas and even more magazines to read and rip ideas from. I thought I was addicted to magazines before, but it's in full force now! No, dad...the purchasing of bridal magazines is not including in the wedding budget.
Here is to Friday and another wonderful weekend!

"grow old with me. the best is yet to be." -Robert Browning

2011-01-10T22:09:00.002-06:00

Preface: I know that some of you have been kindly reminding me that I need to tell my story and post pictures of the special night. I apologize for the delay in my posting, but I have been in a true whirlwind of emotions, planning, traveling and everything in between. If I don't get this posted tonight, I might never get it done because I start my travels for work this week. So, here it goes.

As the holidays neared, Blake and I decided that we needed a date night, a night of dinner and whatever else we wanted to do...just the two of us. We love our families dearly, however, when the holidays approach, we go into family overload and don't get much time to enjoy one another. (As I write this, I realize I am, in a sense, "complaining" about something many people in this world don't have. Blake and I fully realize we are blessed to have our families, especially during the holidays. They surround us with love and we greatly appreciate them all the time.)

We planned the evening together about a week in advance. Our date night set for Wednesday, December 22, 2010. After I got off work, I went home and freshened up my face. Blake picked me up about 6:15 p.m. and he drove us to our dinner destination-Boulder Grill. We had been talking about this new restaurant since it came to Tulsa over the summer and hadn't yet been. Blake ordered a delicious pasta dish and I had an assortment of tapas. Blake tried a martini for the first time and liked it. (Another "first"...if you haven't noticed it's kind of a recurring theme.) Since we were going to be downtown, I had asked Blake if we could go ice skating at the BOK Center Winterfest...we have never been ice skating together either. We stood in a freezing cold line for about 15 minutes. Paid for rental skates. Tied them up. And carefully glided onto the ice. The ice was packed with people of all ages. Adults falling, kids zooming by and Blake retying his skates for better ankle support.

As we skated around the rink, we snapped some photos and then scooted off the rink carefully because the zamboni kept honking it's horn at us. So we put our shoes back on, turned in our skates and walked to the car.

As we drove out of downtown, we decided that we needed to grab a quick Christmas present for his grandpa. We purchased his gift, got back in the car and the fun began, but of course, I thought we were just headed home.

Blake immediately handed me a blindfold and explained that he wanted to take me to one of my Christmas presents, but didn't want me to know where we were going.

[Side note: I did think, "what if?", but quickly put my feet on the dash (putting me in a fetal like position) because I get naseous in the car if I can't see the road. Therefore, I stopped thinking "what if?"]

He drove around for about 25 minutes or so and we ended up in a parking lot with lots of land around it. I have never been to Jones Airport (the smaller airport in south Tulsa) so I had no clue where we were. As we walked into the building, Blake explained that my "stocking stuffer" was a Christmas light tour by helicopter. If you know me, you know I LOVE TO FLY! But tonight was different because I have never stepped foot in a helicopter before. We sat in the "terminal" for about 20 minutes. The kind lady led us out to the helicopter, put me in my seat and made sure I was all set to go. She repeated with Blake on the other side and we took off.

I was in complete awe. The night was perfectly clear, so the Christmas lights were shining bright. We pointed out friends houses, talked through voice-activated microphones and looked on for miles over Tulsa. As we crossed Rhema Church (known for their Christmas light display), I pointed out the ever-changing bridge and I could hear Blake starting to say stuff. Well, it wasn't stuff. I don't remember the exact words he used, but I understood the overall meaning. He did tell me that he loved me, couldn't imagine being in this moment with anyone else and he wanted to spend the rest of his life with me. I quickly teared up. He reached into his pocket, pulled out a little box and popped the question! I said yes about 7 times because I wanted to make sure my voice-activated microphone heard me. Then I moved my microphone so I could kiss my fiance. I don't remember the rest of the light tour because my new light was Blake's iPhone flashlight gleaming off my ring. (He did get a ring box that had a light built in, but removed a battery for fear of being "cheesy") I do remember being overlly excited. I don't remember breathing. Safely, we landed and exited the aircraft. I had the lady take a picture of us and I was too excited to tell my family and friends so we hurried back to the car.

The next 2-3 hours were spent on the phone, at my parents house and at Blake's house. He drove me home and I layed in bed, too excited to sleep because of my new accessory.

Blake and I have been dating four and a half years and to this day, I still have moments where I can't believe it. He is my best friend and I can't wait to start our own little family. For now, I will enjoy calling him "fiance" and planning our day.

We would really like to thank our family and close friends for their love and support during our entire relationship. We've had our ups and downs and we realize that life won't always be perfect, but we are in it for the "long haul" and love each other with all we've got!

Huntin Deer and Christmas Cheer

2010-12-22T09:24:00.003-06:00

Three days before Christmas and I am finished with my shopping list. Actually, I finished on Sunday! I admit, I went to the mall this past weekend and joined the crazies in their last-minute gift adventures, but I am done. Insert sigh of relief. All I have to do now is sit back and relax and await the arrival of Christmas...
I take that back. On Christmas Eve, I have a very big job in our family. A majority of my family gathers (weather permitting) at my parent's house for Christmas Eve pizza. We have been baking them for as long as I can remember. As a curious child, I always involved myself in the pizza-making process some how. I would sit on the counter in flour, play with dough, eat the pepperonis. As I grew up, I took on more important tasks, such as topping the pizza, watching the oven, and still eating bits of topping before it could make it to the raw dough. Now, with the help of a few others, I am the pizza nazzi. Pizza making takes skill. Each year, I get a little better and it's perfected one year at a time. I still use the original hand-written receipe Papa Bob (grandpa) passed down to my mom and me and he still supervises our efforts. Although I am sworn to secrecy, I have a couple secrets to share: dough is made about 4 hours before bake time and the sauce is made the night before. It has to set and settle so all the flavors can shine through. That's all. I might wind up missing if anymore slips out. All homemade. All delicious. All exactly how we like it. I look forward to blessing my family with another great homemade pizza dinner on Friday night.

I have already watched Christmas Vacation for the past 4 nights as I fall asleep and I can't wait until the 24 hours of Christmas Story. Those bunny pajamas and piggy troff, get me everytime! Love laughter.

On other notes...Blake has been enjoying his break from school and hunting...a lot it seems. I'm okay with it because he brings me the game for future dinners. I have yet to cook game, with the exception of dove nuggets for Ashley's wedding shower back in August, but I am looking forward to it. Dove and deer currently occupy a space in my freezer and I'm sure duck will make it's way in too. If you have any good receipes I should try, please share. Otherwise, I will be exploring the internet for them, and hope they are actually good!
In all the years Blake and I have been together, I have never been hunting with him. It's a guy thing, right? Well that might all change soon. We are trying to find a time, before duck season ends, where I can join him and the dogs and "pound some ducks" as he would say. I have used a shotgun once in my life at a skeet shoot where, I might add, I shot about 4 out of 50. If I shoot one duck, I will be a happy hunter. Blake will start back up in January for his last semester. What a great feeling to be graduating!

And for New Years, Blake and I will be going to Dallas for New Year's Eve/New Year's and spending some quality time with my best friend in the whole wide world, Kasey! I couldn't be more excited, especially since I haven't ever gone anywhere for NYE. YEAH!

I wish you all a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! May His love surround you always and especially during this special time of year.

holiday gift guide à la lindsay (part two)

2010-12-09T14:21:00.000-06:00

As promised, this list is for those searching for the more traditional holiday gifts. Want something a little different? Go here. The list below is complete with items or categories that I typically pick out for my loved ones and friends. Hopefully, you'll find something here you need to check off another recipient on your holiday gift list. It's coming faster than you think, so get your shopping and shipping done early. Like, NOW!

For any young lady in your life, beauty gift sets are always a fail-safe, much appreciated option. The younger crowd will drool over the MAC holiday collections. If you haven't already purchased this from your local MAC store, you might be out of luck. I know here in Tulsa, they sell out super fast! This year, the collection (sold at Dillard's) features a Juicy Couture like plaid and crest with vibrant colors for the eyes, lips, face and nails. Priced from $22.50 to $38.00, these sets are sure to please. Need something a little more sophisticated? Or don't want to choose a color for someones eyes? Check out Sephora. They offer a plethora of gift sets that are pefect for any young lady on your list.

Does a man in your life enjoy a nightcap every ~~night~~ now and then? Something straight, neat, and delicious. Why not pair your regular gift (his favorite liquor) with cool glass to sip from. They are designed by Normann Copenhagen and cost $42.00 for a pair. Is he more of a beer drinker? How about a six pack (or two) with this unique bottle opener. It's magnetic so you won't be dropping the bottle caps on the floor. It's only $20.00!

The meals were cooked and devoured. The presents opened and scattered about the house. Santa has come and gone. The holidays are over. At least until we ring in the new year. After all the holiday festivities are over, I bet your mom, sister, aunt, whoever does a bulk of the holiday "work", would enjoy a pair of these slippers from Gap for only $19.99 (on sale)! They are adorable to keep her in style and comfy to keep her, well, comfortable. Let her put her feet up in style, even if she does doze off with her mouth open. You could also get her a cozy sweater or a scarf to bundle with, but I couldn't find just one that I liked. This post would be too long if I posted all the ones I fell in love with.

The avid gym-goer in your life is constantly told to check their heart rate. At least, I am. Especially in my regular spin classes. Instead of using the old fashioned finger-to-neck or -wrist method, wrap up this little heart rate monitor from Amazon.com. This easy to use monitor and strap will be the perfect gift to keep your gym-goer loved one in shape while mainting their heart rate. A little pricey ($167.12 on sale from $239.95), but the reviews for this monitor are fantastic. "Best bang for da buck", one says. Or if they have a heart rate monitor, what do their shoes look like? Time for a new pair? Have they taken up a new hobby, or exercise class? Maybe they would enjoy a yoga mat, spin shoes or weights to have a home for those times when the gym is just too far.

The kindle is a perfect gift for the bookworm. It stores many books, magazines, newspapers and they are all accessible with the slide of a button. I, personally, own one and I'm still in love with it. It's perfect on the couch, before night-night time, on the road, and even at the gym. The newest 6-inch version is available at Amazon.com for $139 with wi-fi or $189 for 3G and wi-fi.

With only a couple weeks left until Christmas, I'd check your list (twice) and make sure you have everyone covered. Don't forget to stash away a couple extras for yourself or just in case! What are your great Christmas gift ideas this season? And what are your plans for New Years Eve?

holiday gift guide à la lindsay (part one)

2010-12-01T19:51:00.000-06:00

As the holidays near, I thought I would share some unique, and not so unique, Christmas gift ideas I stumbled upon. You might want to grab some of these items as back-ups. You're bound to be on someone's nice list. And said someone is going to show up on your door step with a gift in hand. You'll start sweating and wondering what piece of decor, or bottle of stashed wine you're willing to part with so you can give them something in return. You could [tactfully] say, "I'm sorry. I didn't expect a gift from you, so I didn't get you anything." and then kindly make it up to them by purchasing something special for their next milestone, whatever that may be. Or you can be armed with a cheap, funny, or useful gift in your entry closet for said someone and put a smile on their face. It's the thought that counts, right? Then who cares if they don't like it. You made an effort. Give yourself a pat on the back. Now for those of us who are productive and would like something different than a pair of socks, knitted by granny, or the usual soap and lotion pack for our friends and loved ones, take a look at the list below. Ponder it. Purchase it. Wrap it. Give it. Watch them smile.

Remember Sock Monkey dolls from the "old" days? Just a precious, harmless toy loved by all the kids. One better, he now wraps wine for that special ~~drunk~~ loved one. For the wine-o in your family or a friend, grab their favorite bottle from your local grocer or liquor store and slip on a Sock Monkey from PatinaStores.com for only $10.95! Think your co-worker is a monkey, or better yet, your boss? Give it to 'em. It will be the most wanted gift at your office's Dirty Santa. Beats last year's Squirrel Underpants because wine is involved. You could also opt to use a favorite liquor instead of wine. Just a suggestion for those who like their stiff drinks.

The kiddos in your family are probably playing Angry Birds on your phone while you read this. I'll admit, this game is addicting and I'm an adult. (Well, at least my age says so. Others might say I'm childish sometimes but I think that's because I have fun!) And your kids will have fun playing with the new Angry Birds Plush Toys! They are only $14.99 and every bird and pig is available. If you haven't slinged these birds into buildings, TNT, and pigs yet, I suggest you do. Otherwise, you now think I'm crazy because you have no idea what I'm talking about. Purchase the iPhone app. Play it. You'll understand.
Disclaimer and fine print: I am not suggesting that children use these soft, plush to launch across your living room and destroy your home, but these birds are angry. Although I don't think they can do much damage, I wouldn't know because I don't own many expensive breakables or have kids, for that matter.

Calling all modern scrabble players and crossword-ers...or those giving gifts to old timey scrabble players crossword-ers. Let's bring those board game and pencial-using players into the 21st century by wrapping up some bananagrams and putting them under the tree with their name on it. Target carries Bananagrams for $14.99. This little banana bag filled with scrabble-like letters is also perfect for travel. Seeing that is compact, you can shove in your suitcase or carry-on. Give it as a gift. Take it on your Christmas trip with family for some added fun. Another perk: as you play, you'll learn new words to file in your personal vocab file. In other words, you'll be smarter!

Does the work-a-holic in your life have the luxury of a door, or better yet, a window? Chances are, no! They spend so much time at their ~~office~~ cubicle, why not help them spruce up the place? Bouquets in a can are the perfect gift for them. All they need to do is...more work. But it's simple--pop the top, add water and let it grow. With four flowers to choose from, Dahlias, geraniums, impatiens or pansies, at only $11 each, you can give these to your office mates and work-a-holics for Christmas. Flowers in a can are available at FredFlare.com. This site has other fun and funky gifts at budget friendly prices. If you're a Tulsa resident or visiting Tulsa before the holidays, I suggest you visit The Snow Goose for your fun and funky gifts.

Waffles again? DOH! I'm sure the donut-lover in your life would really appreciate this Sunbeam donut-maker. Found on Amazon for $29.99 (on sale from $39.99), this kitchen gadget will make 5 deletecable donuts in minutes. For the cabinet-space-challenged, it's designed to stand up right when stored. Receipe is simple. Combine 1.5 cups flour, .5 cups superfine sugar and 1.5 teaspoons baking powder. Make a whole in the middle of dry ingredients and whisk in .5 cups butter (melted, obviously), .75 cups milk and 1 egg (lightly beaten, not so obvious). The batter should be smooth. Pour into the maker's heated rings (it's suggested that you use a jug for this, but some mixing bowls have pour-ers on them, so do what make you happy). Close the lid. Wait about 6 minutes. Check it. Look golden brown? Remove them and repeat the pouring until all donuts are cooked. While the donuts are kind of hot, I would add your favorite toppings and enjoy! Yummy.

What about the TV-junkie in your life? Have they purchased a plethora of TV show series and movies from iTunes? Or are they a Netflix subscriber? How about the photo lover, video watcher or music listener? Buy them the improved Apple TV and you can watch, display, and listen to just about anything streamed wirelessly from your iTunes account (no need for syncing to your iTunes Library). For only $99.00, you'll get instant movie rentals (starting at $2.99) from Apple, a la carte TV show rentals (only $0.99) and Netflix movie rentals (prices vary). You can also display photos from Flickr, videos from YouTube, and also your own photo and video libraries. Don't foget that you'll need a HDTV and a HDMI cable for this to work in your home. Oh and wireless internet for connection, duh! Sit back, grab the popcorn and enjoy the movies, or whatever else you choose to display from your friend's new Apple TV. Go ahead. Invite yourself over, you bought it for them!

If you're lucky enough to have a planner or list lover in your life, like myself, you must purchase these next few gifts for those special people. They are probably frantically searching for their new calendars and notebooks as you read this. Set them at ease this season. Give them the gift of organization they crave. The MomAgenda brand has come out with other products besides the agenda for, whatelse, moms. One of their popular products is the MyAgenda. It has a week-at-a-view format which is stress releiving for those who have a lot going on in their life, or lack their of. It also features a monthly view. These calendars are set up to coincide with school starting in August and going all the way until the next December. For example, right now you can buy the August 2010 through December 2011 for only $36.00. MomAgenda is also offering a 20% discount sitewide. So grab them while they are cheap. It comes in cool metallic colors so staying in style isn't a question. And for those who like personalization, you can have these embossed (with letters only).

Their newest product is the MyPlan specialized for those in school. Starting in August 2010 and moving through August 2011, the young ones can learn how to organize their lives effectively for only $19.94. Perfect for kids on the go and it comes in cool color combinations too. Personalization available here too, but in script or printed letters only.

The traditional choice here is the Moleskine that retails for $17.95. This soft-back product is perfect for lists or journal writing. I'm not much of a journal writer, but I love lists of any kind.

And please don't forget a new writing utensil from the best writing utensil company in the world. Sharpie has come out with a new pencil, a liquid pencil. There isn't a need to worry about breaking led or carrying your extra led case because it doesn't use led. Staples sells them in a 2-pack for only $5.29. So these might be more like a stocking stuffer, but either way, it will be appreciated greatly by organized, list-making freaks, like me.

Looking for more traditional items, like the newest sweaters, scarves, kitchen items and much more, check back soon. To be continued...

Utica Utopia

2010-11-29T20:26:00.001-06:00

This part of the year is filled with holidays, family and friend gatherings, traditions and, well, shopping. I have to admit that the shopping is the most fun and most frustrating part of the season. Attempting to find something one wants/needs and isn't too expensive is always an adventure. However, this year I started early so as not to break the bank when it gets down to the wire. Yes, that's right. I made a budget and I have already planned out about 5 or 6 of my Christmas gifts this year. Others are still processing and in due time will find their way to my "secret" hiding place.

Common Thanksgiving traditions include, but aren't limited too, turkey, stuffing, jellied cranberry sauce, bread rolls and pie. Some families may throw back bottle (or two) of wine, break the wishbone, watch football and fall into deep tryptophan naps, however, Tulsa has yet another tradition for Thanksgiving night. We fill our bellies and scurry down to Utica Square for "Light's On". All the trees are embellished with over 700,000 twinkling lights and Santa is in town for caroling and the countdown. The 40-year "Light's On" tradition has been on my tradition list for over 10 years! Nothing beats walking around Utica with the lights on and a cup of coffee.

Utica Square is closer to my home and I don't know if that is dangerous or harmless. I guess we will find out this very busy shopping season. It's hard to pass up a walk-by of the ever-changing Miss Jackson's windows and, again, the cup of coffee and outdoor shopping.

Even with these attractive, tempting windows, I must always keep in mind, 'tis the season for giving and not buying for oneself's closet. I should probably go to therapy or something, but the only therapy I know of is "retail therapy" and that doesn't seem to be a long term fix for anything.

Now that Thanksgiving is over, I'm getting extremely anxious for Christmas because that means friends and family gatherings, homemade Christmas Eve pizza and presents. Wishing everyone a joyous holiday season with family and friends. And may all your nights be filled with cheer (or cheers)!

turkey trot

2010-11-27T08:36:00.003-06:00

While discussing holiday plans with a friend one day, we decided to look into any runs (races) that would be happening when she was in town for Thanksgiving. We landed on the Turkey Trot 5K starting at 9 a.m. on Black Friday. Seeing that I have proactively planned out many gifts in advance, I don't know that fighting the crowds on Black Friday in hopes of finding that perfectly cheap(er) gift for someone on my nice list is ideal. (Yes, I have a naughty list too and let's just hope you didn't land on it this year. Only time will tell.)

On top of this run/race being a distraction from the shopping, it helped worked off a couple hundred of the gazillion calories I consumed on Thanksgiving.

The Turkey Trot is also the kickoff for the BOK Center WinterFest which is a month long event that includes ice skating, concessions, a holiday mart and carnival rides. I have never attended the BOK Center WinterFest until now. I would like to return for some ice skating before the month is up.

Brooke and I would like to thank our wonderful moms for their support in our running efforts. They drove us there and stood out in the 30 degree weather from start to finish. They also attempted to catch some photos of us in action-- hard task to accomplish when we are flying by at lightening speeds!

Brooke and I both obtained awful side stiches while we were running. If you look closely, my fingers in digging into my side in attempt to subside pain as I cross the finish line. I blame the cold weather and, of course, quick feet. We both finished in under 30 minutes.

And we are done. Mom, thanks again for being there. You're the best! After the complaining of stiches and cold lungs, we walked to the car with our heads held high...we were proud!

We plan on doing this again next year (I think. Right, Brooke?) and we hope many more will join us. Thanks again Brooke for doing this with me!

glitterrr!!!!

2010-11-25T12:34:00.001-06:00

The holidays are the perfect time to deck your home out in sparkly decorations. Since I didn't move into my house until December last year, I opted to not get a tree and just use some garland around the fireplace. In other words, my decorations were sparse. This year, I'm preparing for a tree and all the trimmings. One problem...I don't have the ornament collection I would like to have, nor the money to drop on ornaments to fill the tree. While I can't guarantee my tree will be filled this first year, I'm making ample effort to fully decorate...on a budget! I purchased some ornaments at TJ Maxx--I never walk out of this store empty handed. One day I was browsing through a Ballard Designs catalog and found these oranments and knew I wanted them.

With a $15.00 price tag + shipping and tax, they would set me back about $25.00...for ONLY THREE!! What?! These pinecones fall off my neighbor's tree and I can pick them up for free. For those who think I stole them, I didn't. They were rightfully in my yard and on my driveway, therefore, making them mine.

~~Receipe~~ Ingredients:
Pinecones, picked up in my yard while raking leaves and my neighbor's pine needles = FREE!
Glitter = $5.00
Fake Snow (not in the can) = $2.50
Craft Glue, I used Modge Podge I already had at home, but it's about $3.50
Foam Paint Brush, I already had these too, but you can get a single brush for cheap = $1.00.
String, or some form of thread, I bought a sliver thread = $2.00

After tearing a paper sack and spreading it across the table, I gathered two bowls and a plate to put all my ingredients on. Here is my spread.

Start by unwinding string. You need enough to in and around the top layer of the pinecone and tie a knot, then tie a knot at the top so you can hang from your tree.

Next, brush the craft glue on the "scales" of the pinecone. Naturally, pinecones hang down, but you can paint whatever side of the scales you want depending on the look you're going for.

After the scales are good and covered with glue, hold the pinecone over the bowl of glitter and spoon on generously. The snow is optional, again depending on the look you're going for. I did some with glitter and some without. The sole reason I saved the snow until the last step is because I didn't want it to be more snow than glitter.

When you have the coverage you like...mine look like this:

Place on another torn up paper sack and let dry overnight.

When your Christmas tree gets placed properly in your home, hang from branches with the string and watch them sparkle and shine.

I made 10 pinecone ornaments for about $14.00 and I have left over ingredients to make more when I find more pinecones on my property. Enjoy!

movie date night

2010-11-22T15:45:00.001-06:00

Blake and I treated ourselves to dinner and a movie last night. It was wonderful. We haven't been on a dinner and movie date night in a long time it seems. As a matter of fact, I don't even recall the last movie I watched in the theaters. Our date went a little something like this:

Dinner.
We landed on Zio's Italian Kitchen. I also can't recall the last time I ate at Zio's either, but it was just as I remembered. We each got an appetizer and shared a main course. It was romantic--just like Lady and the Tramp. We slurpped on spaghetti until we kissed while eating the same noodle.

Okay. I lied. It was nothing like that because we didn't get spaghetti, meatballs or rudely slurp our noodles. But it was nice to just sit, be served (by a nice waiter--those are hard to come by nowadays) and enjoy dinner conversations and laughs with Blake. Being the gentleman Blake is, he paid for dinner and we were on our way to the movies.

Movie.
The evening feature we attened? Due Date. With a couple good reviews from family and friends and no real chick flicks to drag Blake in, we "agreed" on Due Date.

Don't read any further if you don't want details revealed, although I'm not a very good movie spoiler, I would hate to upset anyone.

The movie was downright hilarious! I don't remember one part of last night where I wasn't laughing. Looking back, it's very similar to the Hangover. ~~Men~~ Boys on a quest to get home in one piece for a life changing event. Where as Hangover was for a wedding, Due Date was for a first-born birth. No explanation needed really. Peter (Robert Downey Jr.) is tormented on a cross-country drive from Atlanta to ~~L.A.~~ Hollywood with an uncanny Ethan (Zach Galifianakis). These two characters managed to make a lifetime of memories on the highways and at the pit stops. While realizing dreams (or nightmares) really do come true, they promise to ~~call~~ e-mail and keep in touch. Sunny, the dog, is a constant laugh throughout as well. If you have a furry companion, there is good probability that one of their weird habits is played out by Sunny. I suggest everyone see this movie, even if you wait until it comes out on DVD, it's a must see. At least in my opinion.

Blake-
Thank you for a wonderful date night. Only next time, it will be chick flick and you will enjoy it.
Love,
Me

a year's worth of "before & after"

2010-11-21T18:21:00.001-06:00

I have so much to be thankful for this holiday season. First and foremost, I am extremely blessed to have a family who loves me unconditionally (even when I slip and fall). My family is supportive of every ambition, dream and the occasional nightmare! I also have a great group of friends. Even though many do not live close to Tulsa anymore, I'm lucky that I can pick up the phone and pick up right where we left off. I have two little puppies who live with me. I'm thankful for their "protection" and warmth at night when we fall asleep. I'm also quite thankful that last year, I was able to purchase my first home. Another reason to be thankful for family. If it wasn't for them, I would not have accomplished the drastic changes made to the place. As of October 21, 2010, I have owned my house a full year! It's been a long road and besides the constant seasonal decor change, I think I'm done with renovations (aka) "before and after" projects. This means, I will need to occupy my time with other "before and after" projects. I know I will be posting these upcoming projects, but until then...I thought I would share the last year of my life in my first home.

Around 5:00 p.m. on October 21st, I crossed the threshold into my first home. No. Not carried across the threshold in someones arms, but with my own two feet, I leaped across the door jam and planted my feet right where they belong.

Little did I know that when I purchased this dusty treasure, I would want it near perfect before moving in. Previous to my December 19th move in, I renovated (in no particular order) the kitchen, dining room, living room, master bedroom and bathroom. I also attacked the ugliest front porch and fake-flower-filled landscape.

Kitchen befores:

This is the view of the main part of the kitchen. Aren't those curtains wonderful? Ewwww....

Wonderful wall paper border and ugly red paint job. Pictures don't show the detail left on the cabinets...cat hair, dust and peeling paint. Absolutely gross. I don't know where or how I saw the potential in this place, but I did.

Kitchen afters:

The kitchen became a dream for my first home complete with stainless steel appliances, glazed cabinets and a wallpaperless walls.

Living and Dining room befores:

Again with the hidden potential and wallpaper. It's going to be a recurring theme throughout the post. Before tackling the wallpaper in the biggest room in the house, I had the hardwoods refinished throughout the house and then stained darker. The dining room, again with the wallpaper plus a filthy, dusty chair rail and chandelier.

The living room is the biggest and most utilized room in the house. It needed to be cozy. Enough said. Currently, fall and Thanksgiving decorations adorn the fireplace making this room an ever-changing room.

Besides the baskets on the wall in the dining room, I am not completely finished with this. My dream is to have a pub table that expands with (matching) chairs. Yet, I can't seem to find one that I love for a price that I love equally as well. And I can't move on with this post without thanking my Grandma Dixie for lending me the table, chairs and bakers rack.

The master bedroom was simple and easy...until we reached the west wall. Whoever lived here before me, or before them, put a layer of wallpaper over the wallpaper. I know, right?! Next time you're going to do a job halfway, think of those who follow in you and what they will have to go through to "correct" your job to their liking. Finish it and do it right the first time. Stepping down from my soap box...now.

After the corrections were made, paint was applied and then applied again because I didn't like the way the first color turned out. The color I ended up falling in love with was chocolate brown. I always thought I would hate to have a dark room, but I really love it. I like to play with the decorations. For instance, I have changed the comforter 3 times and I like to change them so I don't get bored. And...here is the "final" product, that I'm sure by the time this post goes live, it will have changed.

Oh and I added a photo of my proudest innovation moment. I found a window cover from an old house, turned it sideways and it now is home to many necklaces and scarves behind my bedroom door.

Moving on to the hallway and bathroom. Let's start with the hallway. Covered in metallic, leafy, paper. The good news about this wallpaper? It took about 7 minutes to remove all of it! I don't know why it just peeled right off, but I was happy and I'm not complaining.

Seeing that the hallway isn't wide enough to place furniture in, I decided to decorate the hallway with old family photos. Each photo frame is matted with wallpaper removed from the pre-renovated house.

The bathroom was painted an awful red color with some striped natural colored wallpaper. It didn't feel like much of a bathroom. The mirror was about 8x10 in size and housed the only storage for the entire bathroom. The sink was cracked and if you ran the water hot enough, you would see the crack grow up the side of the bowl. Aren't these sinks made to handle this kind of heat and use?

Finally, a bathroom I can primp and pretty myself in everyday. I am constantly looking and adding antique and unique hand mirrors to the space above my window and heater closet. It's only a matter of time until its full.

After I moved in, I decided to take a break from renovations. That is until some friends decided to come visit me and I needed to provide them with a place to stay. The befores...more wallpaper. Another room's potential covered in Laura Ashley flowers and topped off with a border.

As wallpaper peeled off, blank canvas was revealed. Paint was necessary. What color? That took some testing and much thought. Creating a place of comfort for yourself is easy - you know what you like, want and how the designs you choose make you feel. Creating a home away from home for guests is an entirely different animal. I thought about what most of my friends that would be staying would enjoy. One word came to mind: Anthro. I'm still in need of wall art and maybe a make-shift head board (unspoken thoughts have not been released, but I'm excited to find what I'm looking for and will keep you posted).

And this is what I call home. My nest and place of retreat. A dwelling place...with a porch to watch the world from. And I thank God everyday for this humble little abode that I get to call home. Paint color might change, decorations will come and go, but this will always be my first home and for that, I am thankful!

"my friends are my estate" - emily dickinson

2010-11-07T20:17:00.000-06:00

Once again, this weekend, I was reminded why I "work" to keep my long distance friends close. Don't get me wrong, long distance friendships are difficult, but somehow we always pick up where we left off so it's not really "work"!
What brought two of my best friends to town this weekend, was a sorority sisters baby shower. I couldn't have asked for a better night out with my friends. Most of my Tulsa girlfriends moved away after college and all my college friends moved back home or followed a job/career to another city. Although I'm coping by branching out to other groups and friends, nothing beats my besties. I especially love their [short-lived] visits to Tulsa and this weekend was no different. Until next time, I send my love to all your respective cities!

As far as this weekend...here is to you, Morgan and Evan! Thanks for the unforgettable memories and may all your dreams come true.

Love is the greatest refreshment in life. -Picasso

2010-10-27T21:18:00.001-05:00

My best friend, Ashley, married the love of her life, Luke, on October 2, 2010. Many people know their love story, but for those who don't, here is my point of view.

Ashley and Luke met because we all lived in the same apartment complex. It was pretty much love at first sight. Jordan and I used to sit on the balcony just to see what he was up too when he pulled in the parking lot or we caught him leaving the apartment. We like to think we were Ashley's personal spies and looking out with her best interest in mind. Okay. I take all that back. We were just being creepers!

Luke and Ashley loved each other and it showed with abundance. They had planned a trip to Colorado to visit Luke's brother and sister-in-law. There, in the Garden of the Gods, he proposed! See the video here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=13Wbf8FGOY4

Close to 7 months later, they were walking down the aisle. Time flew by. The wedding was beautiful! I don't know that I can write about it. It was an experience that can't be explained or justified with words on this blog. Utterly perfect! But, I did include some pictures from the fabulous Saturday night affair.

After the rehearsal dinner, we went back to Ashley's parent's house to have a last Ashley Stone slumber party. And what would a slumber party be without a trip to Wal-Mart? Not much beauty sleep, but a fun last night with Ashley Stone. The next morning was the bridal brunch. It was delicious. I brought my "infamous" sausage rolls--find receipe here: http://lindsayepps.blogspot.com/2010/10/infamous-sausage-rolls.html. After brunch, we kind of separated to get ready and reconvened at Ashley's to ride to the church together. We got ready, took pictures and they got married and we took more pictures. Forgive my lack of pictures, this is where the photographer's job came in.

After the wedding, we danced the night away at Five Oaks Lodge. Everything was esquisite and divine. To top it all off, Ashley and Luke escaped the wedding frenzy by HELICOPTER! Perfect ending to a perfect night. They spent the next week in the Dominican Republic.

...and they lived happily ever after!

More photos should be up soon at www.armasphotography.com/emert