Raeosunxine

New year, New you. DIY

2015-01-01T05:19:00.001-08:00

East quick "tutorial" for the New Year (Happy New Year. It is 2015! Full disclosre, I popped the bubbly at 11:50pm.)

Bathroom toiletries are a challenge to wrangle. As a woman there are far more categories alone then there are items for a man. It can be full on war to try and organize your items. In my opinion the items you use to organize your clutter shouldnt be ugly either. I did what any woman of today would do and researched solutions on Pinterest. This is what I came up with as a best option.

To begin this project I used a Sterilite 3 drawer organization system in white. I purchased designers model antique gold spray paint from Michaels Art Supply (using a RetailMeNot 50% off coupon) as well as a matt sealer that I already had.

The first step of your project after locating the piece that you would like to spray would be to clean the surface. Although this part sucks this is going to be in the central part of your process. Next you will want to spray one coat with your gold spray. I actually used to paint the first one was actually a Krylon project paint that specifically said that it worked on plastics. It did not work for me.

What did work for me was designers blank antique gold spray paint it went on very smooth and it ended up being a better product for me.

I also decided as sideline project to paint a metal bar chair that I had found in the refuse. You may see that in another post- I don't know you might get lucky. :p

Please ignore my icky carpets. This is where the trashcan use to sit. Post on cleaning carpet grime in the works.

Between each coat of paint actually let it dry. I may have used too many coats of paint because what I decided to do was to spray paint one layer of gold and then do a Mathe layer. Followed by a layer of gold...etc. I will say that I am happy with it. I attempted to paint the wheels but it looked like crap so I used acetone to remove the paint. I al ready see a bit of wear on the drawer track.

we'll see over time what happens with those overall I am happy with my product.

Christmas DIY: Twine wrapped bottle

2014-12-04T10:49:00.005-08:00

I like wine. As a result I have some pretty interesting bottles around the apartment. I usually accumulate a few with plans to "do something" with them. I go on Pinterest for ideas, don't find any I like and eventually I get tired of looking at them (and feeling like a hoarder) and they make their way to the recycling bin. Well, I'm happy to say I have finally found a project that I love! This is very easy to do and I may do a few more! I would count this project as a "win" but I also want to share some tips with you to make it an even better success for you.

For this project you will need:
Twine
Glue gun
Glue sticks (lots-if you think you have enough get more)
Glass bottle
Berries from floral department
Time

TIP: The first tip I have is on the Twine. Aside from the bottle (and time) I was able to get all my supplies from the dollar store. I purchased a 3 pack of twine from the hardware section and while it served the purpose- I paid for my frugalness in time. The Twine I picked up was very thin and sometimes had rough sections in it. I would suggest finding a thicker twine which I think would save time on this project. Because of my twine, my project took about 4 hours. I would imagine buying a better quality twine (and not getting distracted) could cut this down to 1 hour.

To begin you will need to squeeze a dab of hot glue on the mouth of the glass bottle and attach your twine end. Be careful not to burn yourself.

TIP: I have seen people use other types of glue. I prefer the hot glue because it dries quickly and spillage can be reused. If you have any glue that has squeezed through the rows of twine simply touch with the tip of your gun to smooth out or reposition your string.

Work your way down the bottle, keeping your twine tight. You do not want any gaps between each row. I chose to squeeze glue along the entire line rather than adding glue in dots. I haven't tried it the other way but I think it give you a smoother look and secures the line very well. When you are finished you can add any decoration to the front. I made my bottles to add to my Christmas display but I may want to use it after so I used a flat ornament and draped it around the neck of the bottle like a necklace. After Christmas I can easily remove the ornament and it will work year round.

We wear the masks 2

2014-10-29T08:00:00.000-07:00

I thought about adding doo-dad's and various things to my mask but after the glaze I realied less is more. I added 4 rhinestones. This is the result.

Happy crafting ya'll!

We wear the masks....

2014-10-28T17:42:00.003-07:00

It's the time of year when you get to choose what face you wear and parade as someone else for a day without being trucked away in a new custom tailored winter white wrap jacket. Halloween.

I like to participate just like any other drama camp deprived kid turned adult so I get into the festivities, stage makeup style. My daughter has chosen a witty costume. German tavern girl dress + brown child= German Chocolate. (This kid is a riot)

I haven't decided if I want to be a comic book or a black and white movie character but either way, I'll be sure to share it with ya.

After halloween, I will be attending a masquerade ball! I have wanted to go to one for quite some time so off course I had some plans on attire and a coordinating mask. I decided to DIY my mask and I am thrilled with the results, hence why I am sharing my project before it's been completed.

I started with a mask from Michael's Art Store. It set me back $4.99 (big spender). I had the other supplies but if you do not they are not expensive.

You will need:

1 mask (plastic)
Black acrylic paint
gold metalic paint
1 small round acrylic brush
1 flat medium acrylic brush
pencil

First, paint your mask with acrylic paint. I used 3 coats of paint painted in short strokes until almost dry to give my mask the appearance of hair since my mask is a cat shape. It helps if you tie the ribbons on the mask together. There were a few times I almost dropped the mask while wet and the string was the only way to catch it workout ruining my project.

After the black paint is dry use a #2 pencil to sketch a pattern. This process is important and if you make a mistake you can erase without a problem.

Once you are satisfied with your sketched plan paint using your metalic paint and small round brush. Take you time with this step. If you rush, it will show. I tried using a metalic sharpie instead of paint. I do not suggest it.

The results were very dull.

In my normal impatient manner, I could wait to go to the store for metalic paint so I opened a metalic paint pen. More work than necessary but, wowzers-the results are amazing!

This is what I have so far. I would like to go back over the stray gold brush strokes with my black paint again, seal with a matte protectant and I'm thinking about adding rhinestones and/or feathers. I really love the result and although I would love to add a lititle sparkle I don't want to ruin a good thing.

This would be a great project for anyone still looking for a low maintainace halloween costume with umph.

Well, until next time happy crafting ya'll!

Mom-jitsu: Training Style

2014-07-11T12:22:00.000-07:00

One of the hardest things to figure out since I started training in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (other than spelling it correctly) is figuring out how to style my half natural/half text-laxed hair to protect against damage and without looking like horrid out of the dojo. Here are a few solutions I have come up with.

1. Multi-ponytail faux French braids. This one works really well for both my daughter and myself. Many people advise against using rubber bands. I use them but instead of attempting to remove them-which is when damage occurs- I cut or break them to get them out. I figure there is a reason that they sell them by the gazillions. I got the idea for this style from Chocolatehairvanillacare.com.

2. Pinned under French braid. This works ok but on my hair looked like a hot mess after sweating.

3. Crochet braids with Marley Hair. This is the best option yet. Because of the texture of the added hair, the more weathered the real hair gets, the more natural it looks. I roll the sides and bun the back during training and shake it out when I am finished and it always looks good. Funny thing is, you would expect that it would get worse with time. WRONG-O. The more your natural hairline gets frizzy the more natural it looks!

4. Braid out. This is a good option because it holds during training and- if planned well- can lead to a nice braid out curl style. This photo comes from justgrowalready.com.

I'll add styles as I run accross them but you know I have to give you examples of things that DID NOT work. DON'T try these.

1. Braided updo/bun with added hair.

It's beautiful. It can't get caught. It's good to go right. NOPE!

This style put's your edges at risk ladies (and gents)! As if the tension on the hairline wasn't bad enough, just imagine trying to escape a choke but you can't because you can feel the hairs pulling. don't do it. On bjiujitsu.blogspot.com, the blogger recounts Nyjah Easton's experience like this:

"I decided to try braids and of course after you get over the week of barely being able to move your head from the tightness freshly done braids and cornrows add, they too would often get caught. I've actually had a full cornrow rip out and pull all of my hair along with it."

Are you serious? No thanks! This may work if you use your own hair and bun it really tight but I haven't tried it so I can't speak on it.

2. Super long box braids/twists...sigh....I'm ashamed to say that I thought this was an option...Bad idea...seriously. They got caught a lot in addition to all issues contained in section NOPE.1

3. Scarf. If it slips off in bed, it WILL slip of on the mat. 'Nough said.

I will update as I find viable options. Deuces!

Burn Bling

2014-07-10T11:45:00.001-07:00

Did you know you could buy candles/soaps/potpourri beads and get jewelry inside? How did I miss this and what better way to start videos on the blog? WIN-WIN! I ordered a Prize Candle and I will be updating soon with the reveal!

Yes- I'm hype...I know.

April Fools Day Friendly Fire!

2014-03-31T15:48:00.000-07:00

I like pranking. I don't like being pranked but I like pulling them. This year I will be pulling some friendly pranks of my family. Why? I'm glad you asked....

It all started on a snowy day in December. I am not a fan of snow. I don't think it's cute. I don't make snowmen and I just made my first "good" snowball at the age of 29. Seriously, don't like the stuff. Well, my dear loving family and neighbors lured me outside one day by using my sweet little girl. I remember it like it was yesterday. She came in the house and said "Mommy, can you come play with me" then used the puppy eyes I taught her to use on Daddy. Traitor! As soon as I come outside I was snowed from 3 different angles. OOOOOH but that wasn't the worst part...They put a snowball down my back on the inside of my coat! What the what?!

Fast forward back to present day. I have let bygones be bygone so I will not retaliate with anything bad but I will have a little fun. ; )

This year no foods are what they seem. The moral of the story, don't bite the hand that feeds ya!

April Fools Day Menu

Breakfast:

Eggs over easy

Toast

Fresh fruit

Lunch:

Grilled Cheese

Peas and Carrots

Beverage:

Gatorade

There are other nutritious things that they will eat in the day but these are the things I have cooked up just for them.

Breakfast:

What they see: eggs over easy, toast and some fresh fruit.

What they get: vanilla yogurt, apricot half, toast and gummy berries (just a few)

What you will need for this prank:
Vanilla Yogurt
Apricot or peach halves
Harboro Gummy Berries
Toast
Spoon

To make the eggs spread a dollop of Vanilla Yogurt on a plate to represent an egg yoke. It is very important not to use any fruit yogurt so that there are no fruit chunks on the plate. Next you will place one apricot half on top. Don't make it perfect. Eggs aren't imperfect. Side this with real toast and just a few berries. We don't want to overload 'em on sugar, do we? The best part about this is, other than the fake berries, this can be a pretty good breakfast.

These are not my pictures. I will not make this until the morning but this is what it will look like

This will be the hardest meal to pull off because my husband doesn't eat eggs. I may have to let him in on the joke before hand.

Lunch:

What they see: Grilled Cheese, Peas and Carrots

What they get: Pound cake, orange icing, starbursts and skittles

What you will need for this prank:

Massive bags of Skittles and Starbursts

a knife and cutting board/ culinary shears

sandwich bags

For the peas, simply sort the green candy out of the large bag of skittles

Next, open each starburst and cut it into quarters.

When you are finished, combine the starbursts with the skittles and voila! Peas and Carrots.

Preparing the grilled cheese was a bit more involved. I took a shortcut buy purchasing a pound cake. I honestly suggest having your cake in a loaf shape if you attempt this. I was working with a short deadline so I took what I could get.

For this prank you will need:

1 pound cake

grill/griddle/pan

whipped icing (spreads and mixes easily)

food coloring (see package directions for orange)

something to stir the color into the frosting

While your grill/pan heats up you can mix the color into your frosting. Make sure to follow the directions on the package. I used 5 drops of yellow and one drop of red.

as a last step, I compared the color to the cheese we had in the fridge. The color looks good.

Next slice your cake. try to make it as straight and consistent as possible and lay directly on your hot surface. Other sites have suggested adding butter but I found that the cake had enough oil in it already so I did not add any more.

If you use a grill like I did, you will get these realistic looking lines. Cool effect!

Next spread your colored icing to the non grilled side. Make sure ice completely to the ends to give the "cheese spilling over the side" effect. TIP: don't get too excited and ice before the slices cool down. I got a slippy slidey mess because I was overzealous!

Lastly, every grilled cheese needs to be cut into triangles- so do it.

Beverage service:

What they see: Gatorade

What they get: Jello

This last one is just as simple as the others. If you can make Jello you can do this. Follow the directions on your package BUT pour your liquid into sports bottles.

For this prank you will need:

1 large bowl

Boiling water

cold water

sports bottles

one large container for the sports drink if you do not want to waste it.

Jello mix

1 funnel

Open your new bottles of sports drink and empty into your large container if you want to keep it.

Mix your Jello by the package directions. I chose orange to match the label...but then I mixed too much hot water and had to use my reserve strawberry mix.

Here are the directions in case you threw out your Jello package in haste.

After mixing your Jello use your funnel to get the liquid into the bottle.

Refrigerate overnight. I will be taking this to my family Jiu Jitsu class tomorrow night as well as bottles of water for everyone. Okay so my revenge isn't so mean but it sure will be entertaining for me. I will post reactions tomorrow!

Monster Mouth Britches

2014-03-20T07:50:00.001-07:00

My daughter runs holes in her jeans like it's her job. She has this strange idea in her head that she does not need to change pants when taking her martial arts classes and instead just puts her gi pants on top. as a result I get these jeans worn completely through the knees. I decided to find a few ways to fix these holes rather than tossing them. This is fix number 1: Monster Mouth Britches.

To start this fix you will need:

Jeans worn in both knees (you can do one but I think two look better)

two sewing needles

1 spool transparent thread

1 spool of upholstery thread

1 strip of colorful fleece the width of your hole. I used 1 inch strips and they do stretch a little.

1 strip of white stiff wool fabric for teeth

buttons for eyes

scissors

pin cushion

First, cut out any loose strands that are in the hole.

Measure your fabric length for the hole. Tip: Fabric stores may give you a sample of fabric for free. Joann's sample size is 1 inch wide. More than enough for this task.

Turn the jeans inside out and prepare to stitch with transparent thread. I prefer the transparent thread in this project because it is very forgiving to sloppy lines and stitching since holes in jeans can be inconsistent in shape and size.

after you are finished stitching the fleece to the jeans with your transparent thread turn the jeans right side in and this will be what you see.

The next part takes a bit of imagination. now you need to form your monster. Use your white firm wool to cut out teeth. They do not have to be perfect.

Place the teeth inide of the monster's mouth to choose the placement and when you are satisfied sew it in.

I also chose to secure the long teeth to the bottom of the mouth as well just in case. I have a feeling that the teeth could curl after washing. I'll be sure to update after the first wash.

I guess he wanted to help. He just knocked all of my buttons off of the table. Shoot!

Secure your buttons over the mouth. I used the upholstery thread for this. I originally intended to make some Frankenstein like stitches but decided against it.

Tip: It helps to cuff the jeans to make it easier to secure the buttons.

This monster is a girl so I made her a bow. Using thread with a knot in the end, pinch a round inch of fabric together and sew through middle to sinch. After it's through the bow, take your needle through the opening before the knot and pull tight. Do it twice for a secure hold. Do not cut the thread. Now, take the needle and sew onto monster's head.

Sew the ends down so they stay flat.

And here is your monster!

Follow the same directions for the other knee if necessary. My second monster only has two teeth and no bow.

And there you have it, Monster Mouth Britches, Fix #1 for holes in jeans.

Southern Slang Translated

2014-03-14T11:24:00.002-07:00

Phaedra Parks- a Southern Belle- lookin sharp honey!

This post has nothing to do with Ms. Phaedra other than being about Southern people. I just think she looks fabulous and she is my favorite celebrity southern belle so I thought I would use the picture. Go on Ms. Phaedra with your bad self!

I may have said this before-maybe not- but I was raised in a military family. As such we never stayed anywhere too long and I don't have a "hometown" persae. I do, however, love and claim Montgomery Alabama as where I am "from" time to time. It was the place we lived the longest growing up (7 years is a long time in military time). I dearly miss my friends, adopted family and the Southern charm of nicesties. Nicesties (plural form of Nicesty-word popularized by singer Michel'le) are comments that seem nice on the surface but are totally nasty underneath. The kind of thing you hear a southern belle say and you immediately thank them but only realize on your way home she was being a total B!+¢#.

If you are unfamiliar with the Southern by personal experience, watch shows like Netflix's "House of Cards". The Southern have a way of delivering the most rude of comments in the prettiest package. I have gathered a few of my favorite "Southern Phrases" for your enjoyment.

1. Bless your heart- Seems sweet right? Wrong. What she is really saying is "You dumb misguided dunce". This seems like a well wish but it really translates to 10% pitty and 90% dumbass.

2. He's too big for his britches- really means he is in over his head or thinks too highly of himself.

3. Off like a herd of turtles- off to a slow start.

4. If brains were leather, s/he wouldn't have enough to saddle a June bug- You're and idiot.

5. I bet you could start an argument in an empty house- you argue too much.

6. She was happy as a dead pig in the sunshine- describes someone who is blissfully ignorant to what will ruin them.

7. Well, ain't that nothin'.- My grandmother used this one. She usually said it mid conversation while someone was bragging about something that she thought was dumb. She usually followed it up with a fake and painful looking smile.

8. Run with the big dogs or stay on the porch- get in, fit in, or get out. Also, probably said to someone who was too big for their britches if they hesitate when it's time to put your money where your mouth is (or back up what you are saying).

9. Why you're as useless as a screen door on a submarine- completely and utterly useless to the task at hand.

10. Her elevator don't go all the way to the top/ She's one fry short of a Happy Meal/ She's got a screw loose- She's nuts.

11. You look like you've been rode hard and hung up wet- You look bad- really bad.

12. That makes about as much sense as tits on a bull- You make no sense

13. She doesn't have a pot to piss in or a window to throw it out of- You're poor

14. Look, I bet she could eat corn through a picket fence- You have buck teeth

15. She was drunk as/drunker than Cooter Brown- This one took some research. Supposedly, Cooter Brown was a man that lived during the Civil War. He lived on or near the Mason-Dixon line and had family on both sides and he didn't want to fight in the Civil war. As a solution he just stayed drunk the entire time so he was deemed "unfit" for battle during the entire war. Whether he was real or not, the phrase stuck.

16. She's so tender faced- My grandfather uses this. Means she's ugly.

17. She’s so ugly she’d make a freight train take a dirt road.- See #16

18. I’ll stomp a mudhole in his @ss and walk it dry.- I'll kick his butt from here to the Mississippi.

19. She wouldn't bust a grape in a fruit fight.- She can't fight or she is a coward. Also used by Jay-Z in 99 Problems.

Now on the other hand there are some things that are said that may sound bad but really are meant with kindness.

1. Your prettier than a pot of collards- What can I say Southern people like good food. If they compare you to good food, your pretty hot stuff.

2. She's finer than frog hair!- Ever see frog hair...that's because it's so fine.

.....yeah, unfortunately I only have two of the nice phrases. Feel free to add any that I forgot in the comments below!

The Faithful-of it.

2014-03-03T13:14:00.001-08:00

I may have just a little too much faith in my abilities. I have decided that my new hobby will be sewing. This is something I've wanted to learn for quite sometime but never set aside the time to achieve. I am very excited.

...at the same time I am saying "what were you thinking Shan!". I went gung-ho on this one! I have no basic knowledge of reading patterns, fabric selection...let alone how to run a sewing machine yet I have purchased $65 worth of fabric, 20 patterns (in Burda Magazine-so it was only $14.00) and a sewing machine on ebay.com. I don't know who told me I could do this but I am going in neck deep here!

Talley Forth!

Mrs. All American made an apperance at Motor Trend's International Auto Show

2014-02-09T18:23:00.003-08:00

I am very excited to say that I made and appearance at Motor Trend's International Auto Show....what? You got that from the title? You are so insightful. Any who, here are the pictures!

Short post, I'm sleepy. GN.

Pagent Sash Easy DIY

2014-01-23T12:04:00.000-08:00

This weekend has been a complete and total whirlwind. I was named Mrs. All-American! I am over the moon right now and can't wait to serve for the next year! The women that I met this weekend were absolutely phenomenal. I am so happy to have been able to meet such great women!

Okay, so on to the DIY project.

Why?
My pageant started on a Thursday night and with it being a weekday, my husband and I decided we did not want our our daughter to miss school for a pageant. What kind of example would I be if I allowed that to happen?! Needless to say she was a bit bummed about not being able to go.

My mother also decided to take time out of her busy schedule to travel and help me get things together. My mom is such a great sound board when it comes to organizing my thoughts.

I thought it would be great if I could give them something to show my appreciation so I came up with personalized sashes!

******Disclaimer******

My photos are not very good. I was attempting to quickly make the sashes while my daughter was at a wrestling seminar. As a result, the photos are not the best.

How?
This was a fairly easy project. Your supplies are as follows:

1. 3'' White Ribbon (if you can find 4''
2. Lighter
3. 3/4'' iron on hemming tape
4. 1'' color ribbon
5. scissors
6. Velcro tabs
7. Iron and Ironing board

Step 1: Cut your wide and two strips of your 3/4 width ribbon based on the length below.

Adult
Teen - 62" long
Standard Adult - 72" long
Large Adult (height 6'1"-6'4") - 80" long
XL Adult (height over 6'5") - 88" long

Teen
52" long

Toddler
42” long

Step 2: melt the edges of the ribbon with the lighter. I do this by running the edge of the ribbon along the blue part of the flame. The white top is too hot and will scorch your ribbon. You just want to melt the ends to seal and prevent fraying.

Step 3: line the underside (not shiny side) of your colored 3/4'' ribbon with the hem tape and iron. Follow directions on the package. My package said to iron each section for 10-12 seconds so I moved the iron very slowly, feeding into the process. Tip: the paper peels better when it's warm so if you find that the paper is sticking to the adhesive run the iron over it again and it will glide off.

Step 4: When finished with Step 3, peel the paper off then set adhesive side down on the edge of the wide ribbon. I like to leave the edge of the ribbon out. I prefer the look. Iron again shinny side up (be aware of heat setting and material using) according to package directions.

Step 5: Repeat on other side of wide ribbon.

Step 6: Now you want to add your lettering. I chose the iron on black felted lettering (not athletic). Cut your letters out. Tip: make sure to leave a uniformed amount of space at the bottom of each letter so that you can ensure that the letters as you have placed them are as straight as possible. Iron the paper side of each letter and let it cool. Flip the ribbon over and repeat on the other side.

Step 7: Let the letters cool and peel the paper off. This is what you will get.

Step 8: Fold the ends of the sash under and use more iron on tape to secure for a clean edge. Use velcro tabs to keep the ends together. I don't have a picture of this. I used snap closures but I do not suggest this for you. The ribbon is very delicate and my heart stops every time I try to open and close it for fear that it may rip.

This is a very easy project and I hope it turns out well for you too!

Pageant Crafts: My Fashion Wear Gown & Contestant Gifts

2014-01-18T05:54:00.000-08:00

So I am currently at the Mrs. All American National Competitions.....AHHHHHH....This is so exciting. So I promised a while back to post my DIY gown in white. (see previous post) I decided to go with another dress. I do not have pictures of this but it was very simple.

I decided to use a one shoulder black peplum cocktail dress and decided to add a removable tutu skirt. It all started with the sketch.

1. cut ribbon waist length (I made mine a little short to leave it open in the front.
2. sew 6 yards of tulle to one side of the ribbon, 19 yards to the other side. Choose which side looks better and sew 2 yards of organza to the underside.
3. At waist band iron the tulle as flat as you can and sandwich with two more pieces of ribbon for finishing. I left mine long so that I can tie it to anything.
4. Add a broach for detail. I went with peacock feathers...I was a little proud.

This is what I got:

Hopefully, I can get some better pictures. This will be the dress I wear for the Fashion wear portion of the pageant. Big fun!

I have also had to put together a contestant gift which is a small gift that you give to the other ladies as a gesture of good will. The value should not exceed $5 per gift. I went to my local (and fantastic) dollar tree and came up with a box of notions that could be of use during the weekend for the ladies.

I found the tuxedo boxes in the wedding section and filled it with 2 sided fashion tape, 4 straight pins, one Band-Aid, 3 bobby pins, 2 mints and one cough drops. I also included tissues but I wrapped them since they would not fit inside.

Well, I have to run to go to rehearsal right now but I will be back soon with another craft from this weekend!

Up Next: DIY Sashes!

I moved!

2013-12-12T14:36:00.002-08:00

Hey there! It's been too long since I've posted (gosh that is the kiss of death phrase typed by every blogger whose site will soon meet it's early demise!).

He's what is happening in my neck of the woods.

So I moved! Yup Now I'm in Maryland...not far but damn if it wasn't tedious! I now have a home office which is a welcomed addition.

I would say that my work space is this clean all the time, but no one likes a liar.

Personal wall

My office is right off of the livingroom.

I love this poster!

baby me!

Art work from my baby girl.

...and speaking of additions we now have a new member of the family. Not a baby...silly. A cat. A curious, adventurous 8 month old black kitten named midnight. Hey, my daughter asked for a cat or a brother...easycall.

Say "Hi" Midi!

What else? Oh yeah, I am now Mrs. Maryland All American and soon to be (hopefully) Mrs. All American. I compete January 17, 2014!

Ok. so that's me- now on to the meat and potatoes (or just potatoes for my vegetarian friends). The reason we are all here tonight...What is on my DIY plate?

Project 1:
Our new place has these great windows taking up 2 walls in our living room. We get great sunlight during the day (and we are finding we lose a lot of heat at night) but it has been a complete and total nightmare to try and cover them. There are 6 floor almost-ceiling window panels closely gathered plus one large picture window in the dining area. Now I understand why people hire someone to do this job. My first attempt was curtains...simple darn curtains..So I get the first set of rods, too short, so I returned them and got the second set...just right. Then Curtains...I found a set I loved but there weren't enough of them (6+ windows remember)...then I found some I liked but they were mismatched...Then I found some I liked-all matched-they were too narrow! So I gave up for now on curtains and I have decided to do a privacy window project. I found a great pattern that I loved (at a price I love) and it is lovely!

before

the plan

after.

find the project here: 7th house

but sooooooooooooooooo much work. I tried finding a die-cut to use but I have to trace a template and cut out by hand....suffice to say I'm going on week 3 of this project.

the spaces aren't uneven because I lack a tool to make a uniformed pattern, no. It's uneven because I'm extremely impatient. Admitting it is the first step to recovery.

why soooo many windows!!!

Project 2:

I want to turn this old gown:

Into this:

Although the photo doesn't show it, generally speaking, the fit is similar. Fitted in the waist and opening to a trumpet. I'm doing this pageant thing and I'm thrifty what can I say....I wonder how it will work out..We shall see tomorrow!

Commencing: Operation Swag like Eva Mendes!

Living life to the fullest

2013-09-09T08:03:00.000-07:00

Life is precious. Unfortunately it's not until you are faced with the possibility of it ending that people tend to notice. This post is just to remind us all how special life is without any sad reminders. Have a great day.

Read then watch: book and movie combos

2013-03-11T16:30:00.001-07:00

When I was younger, my mother encouraged me to read by allowing me to read books soon to be released as movies. This proved as a great motivator for me. Today I try to keep this practice. Not only do I get to read some interesting titles but the movie release date provides a deadline for me to finish the book by. While I can not guarantee that the movie is always as good as the book, here are a few good books to read before seeing the movie.

1. Little Women (abridged versions available for younger readers)
2. The Help
3. The Harry Potter Series
4. Disappearing acts
5. The hitch hikers guide to the universe (for younger readers)
6. The Hunger Games (easy read for young readers)

Goodreads.com has a great list far more extensive than my own. Visit them for more suggestions!

http://www.goodreads.com/shelf/show/books-made-into-movies

Phenomenal Woman (or Man) Activities

2013-01-28T08:00:00.000-08:00

looks like baby girl loves herself! Love yourself!

As people, we tend to feel the desire to be loved or admired at the least. Sometimes the place you need to start is with yourself. Here are a few Activities of Affirmation that you can do to boost your self esteem!

1. Choose 5 affirmations to to use as daily mantras for your life and set aside time, daily, to focus on them. These can be things that reflect your current beliefs or things that you would like to represent how you feel.

2. Fake it! Pretend to be confident. No, seriously. Even when false, if you hold yourself in high regard others will tend to do the same. Eventually your behaviors will mirror your "pretend confidence".

3. Work it! We are all really bad at at least one thing- but everyone also has one thing that they are good at. Focus on the things you are good out. Go out of your way to partake in activities that flaunt your abilities. Example: Say, you are an office worker but you love to sing and put on a show. Organize a Karaoke night and milk it!

4. Take a compliment! If someone one compliments your demeanor, your top, your shoes, your hair- accept it! There is nothing wrong with saying "Thank you". It will boost your day. At the same time, one good deed deserves another. Return the favor.

5. Give. In our daily life we tend to take our blessings for granted. You have a car, it doesn't come with a driver and heated back seats but it gets you from A to B. Am I right? There is always someone who can use your extra things or your time. Give to someone. Maya Angelou wrote in her poem "Our Grandmothers":

When you learn, teach.
When you get, give.

Heed her advice.

6. Surround yourself with those with your best interests at heart. There is a certain "charge" to your batteries that you get from being with those who love and support you. Make a date with a friend or spend time with family. It works and the feeling can last for a week!

7. Write down a list of strengths. Take time and write down what makes you special. Ignore all of your flaws and have a "me fest"! Toot your own horn!

8. Have a photo shoot. Take a few pictures focusing on you looking great. Make sure you look good. Brush your hair, put on a good face, put on your favorite outfit and strut for yourself. On your worst day you can remind yourself of the fox that lies within.

9. Pamper yourself. There is something about setting aside time to just focus on yourself. No one else just love yourself. Take a bath, manicure your own nails. This is absolutely necessary in my book. No one can love you until you love yourself.

Many of these suggestions were taken from the book 48 Self Esteem Activities for Women: Powerful Exercises for Overcoming Low Self Esteem by Corinna Bowers available here.

The making of the wand!

2013-01-27T16:49:00.000-08:00

I stumbled across another blogger who did this...tried it...and thought I would share. I went out the other day looking for a curling wand. Being the DIY/ El Cheapo that I am- I started wondering, what differentiates a "wand" from a curling iron? The answer- the clip. So I began to wonder why pay $10-$30 more for less of a product. I went home and decided to try this on a curling iron I planned on discarding.

Step 1: With your curling iron off and unplugged- assess and remove the "clip" from your curling iron. In my case, the clip was held on by screws. I simply removed the screws on either side of the base (handle end) of the clip.

Step 2: After removing the clip I noticed a spring toward the base (handle end) of the clip. In my case this too was screwed in. Take note that some springs are just just inserted in a "pocket" type set up.

Step 3: Be sure that all clip mechanisms, screw, springs and hinges are removed. Lastly I chose to wipe down my new curling wand. I have had this curling iron (pictured) for at least 7 years. As you can see it has taken a lickin'- but since it keeps on tickin' I figured what do I have to loose.

Result: In my case this barrel was WAY too large to create the great curls that I see others accomplish, but-hey, I tried!

The Resolution-2013

2013-01-26T16:35:00.001-08:00

So much went on in 2012...all in all...it sucked sooooo much. Literally from day one till minutes before midnight. I am determined to have a great year in 2013. How? Glad you asked! I have set the following resolutions:

1. Have one adventure per month
2. Earn more from my blog- be a "real blogger".

...sounds good, huh?

2 simple goals with great possibilities! So far I have done one adventure. January's adventure was to go to the Presidential Inauguration. Sounds boring right? NOT! This was defiantly and adventure. I mean we are talking huge mobs of different personalities here! Not White water rafting, I will admit, but no cake walk either! Unfortunately, my phone died very quickly so I didn't get too many pictures but I got a few.

our tickets!

All smiles...although I left my house at 3am to get to my mom's house to leave by 6:30am! So excited!

My mother and I on our way to our ticketed section!

The US Capitol on the opposite side of the reflecting pond.

The Adventures of Jada and Mommy: Manhattan, NY

2012-12-26T09:43:00.000-08:00

This year I took Jada to the most wonderful place on Earth. No, not Disney World. Manhattan, NY! We spent Three days and two nights in Midtown!

There were a lot of "firsts" on this trip. Since we live close enough to NYC we decided to take NJ transit to the city. We drove to the Hoboken station and took the train for $15 each (children free on weekends with adult). It was a no brainer.

Once we arrived in the city, we stayed at The Chambers Hotel. Chambers is a fantastic Boutique Hotel that I definitely recommend to anyone staying in the area. The personal service and style is completely unrivaled. This place would specifically appeal to those wanting to stay in the shopping district- at 56th Street and 5th Avenue. Prime location. It would also appeal to those with artistic interests. Every room displays unique one of a kind art organized by the floor. The staff is extremely helpful and kind. If you ask I am sure they would be willing to give you a tour!

room numbers are displayed in the flooring

Looking out of the window...

this was the view!

she was into the Tv...kids!

They had a small robe just for Jada! Great attention to detail!

Nice letter of welcome and tickets to MoMA!

great quail sandwich at Ma Peche inside of the hotel.

getting ready to hit the town for the night!

The next morning we decided that we wanted to explore the area. We visited Carnegie Hall, Rockefeller Plaza, FAO Schwartz and Nintendo World (we like games!).

MoMA shots

The shopping district (1/2 block from the hotel!)

A short stroll later....

after walking back, I saw this....A few doors down! This is where I wanted to work for YEARS! Love Baby Phat and Pastry!

As I said before this hotel is AMAZING. I took a few shots of the rooms but the lobby is one place you have to see! The photos just do not do this place justice!

I definitely recommend that you look into this hotel. You will not regret it!

http://www.chambershotel.com/

New Installment: The Adventures of Jada and Mommy

2012-12-26T08:51:00.003-08:00

I have been given a great gift in my daughter Jada. She is a joy to be with. One of the things we love to do together is have adventures. Sometimes we travel and other times we stay local but one thing is for sure, we always have fun. I would like to start a new installment on this blog and call it:

The Adventures of Jada and Mommy.

This is sure to be a blast. Below is a picture to start this off. This was one of our first BIG adventures....We went sailing for 4 days on the Chesapeake in Maryland. It sounds crazy, I know. No showers, middle of July and at the time she was between 4 and 5 years old. It worked out better than I thought it would.

I hope you enjoy this!

Pintrest-ed

2012-12-05T14:01:00.000-08:00

I love Pinterest....

I mean...I LOVE Pinterest!

It is the best tool for visual people who find something they like happenstancly and then want to remember but don't have time to write a note or bookmark but reeeeally really intend to come back to it without searching through lots of saved internet files....

Perfection.

Lots of DIY projects. I'll post one soon!

Free New Girl Viewing Party kit

2012-09-21T13:23:00.000-07:00

So I looooove the show New Girl on Fox! The Season premier airs September 25th, 2012. I couldn't find a viewing party kit any where else so I thought I would make one myself. I hope you like it!

You can also download the document here

DIY: Meatless Meat-lover's Pizza

2012-09-06T09:53:00.001-07:00

Read it again...and there it is..

Meatless Meat-lover's Pizza.

I know, I know. First sliced bread-now this. Try to contain yourself.

Recently, in one of my many random greedy searches, I stumbled upon vegetarian meat. It's made of wheat gluten by washing wheat flour dough with water until all the starch dissolves, leaving an elastic mass which is then cooked before being eaten (thanks wiki). With this information I decided to attempt making a pizza.

Here is how it went down...

Ingredients:

Store brand cheese pizza (yeah, I cheated on this step-so what)

Light Life Smart Bacon

Light Life Smart Deli Pepperoni

Gardien Chic'n Scallopini

So the instructions are simple. Brown your "meats" for flavor, cut, place and bake according to pizza instructions. Easy and Delicious!

YUMMM!

Winehouse

2012-08-03T13:59:00.000-07:00

I love arts and crafts...really, I do. But prepare yourself....I HATE useless crafts! Really someone tell me what I am supposed to do with this as a gift...besides give you the evil eye.

This photo was taken from another blog that had an "ugly crafts party". lol

link to that site at bottom. Visit them!

Someone, anyone, quick! Shoot me with a glue gun!

So I got to thinking, what do I like. Well, I like crafts and I like wine so what says "Hey world! I'm a wino!" more than Wine cork art! YAY VINO!

No seriously, I think this stuff looks great but lets just hope these people purchased the corks and didn't collect them (slides personal collection of corks into hidding)....who does that?!

This and the one below were exeptional!

Tutorial

These may still be available at etsy. Contact the buyer!

Home-sweets-home has a tutorial for this one.

Lots of choices..so little corks...get chuggin!

Ugly Craft party:http://myuglysweater.blogspot.com/2006/06/bad-art-and-ugly-crafts.html