Sequins to Sippy Cups

Well Hello There.

noreply@blogger.com (Brittany {Sequins To Sippy Cups}) — Mon, 13 Aug 2012 19:11:00 +0000

Long time no chat! Well I guess that’s because I kinda feel like I gave up on this little blog. Something I did not want to happen. But there were so many things that just got in the way. Or at least I let them. This was supposed to be a fun outlet, just little old me writing about this and that. But somehow I managed to get overwhelmed by it. My friend Amy has an amazing blog. She took me under her wing, showed me the ropes. But what I learned was most people post on these incredible blogs DAILY! They have fabulous photos, and they give away gifts. They have linky parties (something I still don’t understand). They tweet, and pin, and all this other crazy stuff that is way too much for this mama to handle.

J has now entered full blown toddlerhood. She’s a diva. She throws full blown tantrums over things like yogurt or my cell phone, which she truly thinks is hers…”MINE” she tells me! She wants so much to be in charge of everything (little does she know, she really is!) So when I have a second to myself, I found it difficult to sit down and blog. I love writing and just sitting down and talking openly, it’s all that other stuff that felt like work, and I couldn’t gear up to do it on a daily basis.

But here I am (during naptime) making confessions. So this is what I’ve decided. I can’t take any of this too seriously. With a name like Sequins to Sippy Cups, how could you? I will write when I want to write. Snap photos on my iPhone, and mini hot pink Canon, and not worry about the ginormous camera that I don’t know how to work. I will stop spending way too much time than I’d like to admit trying to figure out how to edit pictures I’ve taken of a craft project or cookie. I won’t worry about having followers. I won’t link up obsessively trying to get my name out there. I’m just going to let it be. Hopefully, this will make it more fun, and you’ll hear from me a little more often. Sound good?

Sneaky Oatmeal Raisin Cookies

noreply@blogger.com (Brittany {Sequins To Sippy Cups}) — Thu, 17 May 2012 13:18:00 +0000

I have a serious sweet tooth! I love sweets, all sweets. It’s a problem. There is no discrimination. Unless it involves orange, I find that so unappealing. Like chocolate and orange? That would be the one thing I say no to. It just freaks me out.

This life long addiction of mine has me constantly searching for ways to make sweets healthier. You know, so I don’t feel so guilty for eating twice as many as I should.

And I have a feeling Jhett may have “inherited” my love for sweets. But thankfully she has no clue how healthy these cookies are for her and devours them every time I make them. They are moist and dense, like a muffin cookie, hard to describe. I promise you won’t even notice a vegetable snuck it’s way in.

Oatmeal Raisin Cookies

(Recipe adapted from Deliciously Deceptive)

1 Cup whole wheat flour
1 Cup oatmeal, old fashioned rolled oats
1 Tsp baking soda
1/2 Tsp Salt
1/4 Tsp cinnamon
1/2 to 3/4 Cup packed light brown sugar, (I use 1/2 cup if you like your cookies sweeter, do 3/4 cup)
3 TBSP Tub Margarine (I use Smart Balance, but make sure not to use the Light version, it is not meant for baking)
3 TBSP unsweetened applesauce
1/2 Cup mashed ripe banana
1/2 Cup Zucchini Puree (just steam and puree in food processor, skin on)
1 large egg white
1/2 Cup raisins

Preheat Oven to 350 degrees. Line baking sheets with Parchment/Wax paper.

Combine all dry ingredients in a bowl (flour, oatmeal, baking soda, salt, cinnamon).

In a separate bowl beat the sugar and margarine with a wooden spoon until just combined. Do not overmix. Add in the applesauce, banana, and zucchini. Next add the egg white and stir to blend.

Add in the flour mixture and raisins to the the sugar mixture, stir to combine.

Drop onto cookie sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes.

Hope you enjoy these yummy cookies!

My first Birchbox!

noreply@blogger.com (Brittany {Sequins To Sippy Cups}) — Mon, 14 May 2012 18:46:00 +0000

Sorry for being so M.I.A. lately but I have been in a heavy dark fog lately…otherwise known as Fifty Shades of Grey!! Completely unable to concentrate or perform day to day tasks until I finished the entire series!

Well I’m all done. And a bit depressed it’s over!

But just in time to cheer me up….My First Birchbox has arrived! All is well in the world again!

I thought I would share with you what I got.

This month’s theme is Gossip Girl. Which I used to watch religiously! It fell off the radar quite some time ago when I briefly switched cable companies and didn’t have it programmed to the DVR. Ironically I caught a glimpse of the show last week. Blair was kissing Dan?! What? I thought that would never…could never happen! Apparently motherhood and a brief stint with a satellite dish has landed me under a rock because I am longer up to date with important issues like this!

My birchbox was filled with fun little goodies. Which I tested immediately this morning. Here’s how it went:

Dr. Jart+ BB Cream

You all know how I feel about BB creams. I am particularly partial to the Estee Lauder one, so much that it has replaced my foundation which was essential to my daily routine. This one by Dr. Jart+ is nice. I felt it made me looked a little washed out when worn alone. But it’s light and nice. Also the SPF is slightly less (only spf 25) than the Estee Lauder so I don’t think I’m ready to make a switch.

Color Club polish in Disco Nap

Disco Nap. Love the name! I used to take these in college. Mainly on Fridays after I paraded around at Happy Hour from 4-7pm then went home…took said “Disco Nap” then headed out for the evening! Now my occasional Disco Nap occurs between 2-3pm while Jhett is napping, so I can muster up enough energy to cook dinner and straighten up the tornado she created earlier on in the day. It’s a beautiful shimmery gold color. Its has great coverage, not sheer at all. Loving it because I like everything gold right now.

Fresh Sugar Lip Balm in Rose

This has a subtle pinkish reddish color. Sheer and really really pretty on. I wore this with just my BB cream, a little concealer, light powder, a touch of bronzer and BlushBaby by Mac (a versatile blush color I love) and it looked really nice, very natural. I’m buying this!

Atelier Cologne in Vanilla.

This is a vanilla-y lime-y scent, very light. I would love in a body lotion over a perfume.

Twistband Hair ties

I have several of these already and love them! So soft, no snags. My favorite are the glitter ones but this one was a pretty raspberry color. Kinda matched the lip balm. I promptly braided my hair (just like Mr. Grey would have liked ;) haha!) and put in my new hair tie.

And a little extra. A cute red note card, labeled xoxo, like the Gossip Girl signature. Saving this for a little love note to the hubby I guess.

So that’s it. My first Birchbox. I can’t wait for the next one!

Have you subscribed yet? What do you think of it? I’d love to hear.

Happy Anniversary…to me!

noreply@blogger.com (Brittany {Sequins To Sippy Cups}) — Wed, 02 May 2012 15:24:00 +0000

Today is my 3 year anniversary! It should be my 8th year anniversary, but you lose all those years you invested when you were dating as soon as you say I do! Sometimes it makes me feel a little bit jipped! Not gypped, because today while spell checking this, I learned that “gypped” is a racial slur, and I certainly don’t want to offend any gypsies! ;)

…Moving on!

3 years is a good place to be for us. One was new, Two was a little complicated, but Three is great! We are happy and so thankful for each other and the blessings we have. I thought I would share a few of my favorite moments from my wedding May 2, 2009.

We got married in Seaside, FL. If you haven’t been there, its dreamy. Its this adorable beach town that is so picture perfect. We decided to make a whole weekend out of it so our guests could really enjoy themselves.

Friday night after the rehearsal dinner we had a dessert and cocktail…emphasis on the cocktail reception for all our guests in Watercolor (next door to Seaside). We wanted it at The Red Bar, but my M.I.L insisted it wasn’t as classy…Gee wonder why?

Yep! Bride on a Bar! That’s how I roll!

Because Tequila shots the night before your wedding are always a good idea!!

All the girls got ready at our beach house. My very favorite place to be!

My sweet little princess, Dolce.

This was not a joke! I literally was lifting weights (3lbs, you can barely call them weights) moments before I got dressed. Addicted to this routine from Pilates!

Dance party before…DUH! Had to break it down to “Lose your Love” my fav 80’s song!

The Chapel looked breathtaking.

Me = Happiest Girl in the World. My Sweet Daddy = Losing is baby girl! :(

The Mr. & Mrs..

Our lil boy Grayton made an appearance.

Being a MOH was hard work! Thanks Em!

The decor was amazing. Everything I dreamed of. Pewter gray and shades of pink with lots of bling! Cherry Blossoms and Peonies. Crystal chandelier in the beautiful tent. And dancing under the stars with cafe lights strung above. We had “His” and “Hers” lounges for people to hang out in on each side of the dance floor. Mine was shabby chic and very girly, and his was a cigar lounge.

Time to PARTY!!

Very fitting, the Best Men wore lightning bolt patches.

Our first dance! I think we were counting our steps the whole time. Slow…Quick Quick….Slow….

Each person’s place card was a mini bottle of Moet with a special label with our monogram and read: “Champagne wishes from the Mr. & Mrs.” and the hang tag had their table assignment.

Breaking it down to “My Girl” with my daddy. He’s got some serious moves!

It was a magical day, I will never forget.

And They Lived….

Happily Ever After!

PS: A few mentions to my favs…

Photography, Sublime Wedding

Design, Nouveau Flowers

Print Items, Ft. Lauderdale Stationery

Dress is Rivini.

How to keep your guacamole from turning brown & Mango Guacamole Recipe

noreply@blogger.com (Brittany {Sequins To Sippy Cups}) — Tue, 01 May 2012 18:31:00 +0000

I heart Mexican! Any and all Mexican! Especially fresh guacamole. Which is a little weird since I don’t like avocados. Actually I’m the same way about tomatoes, but that’s another story.

Usually when I make guacamole at home there isn’t any left over! But every once in a while, if I make too much I will save it for later. And without fail, it always turns brown and grosses me out the next day, even after skimming the top, I’m still a little freaked out.

But I found a great new way to keep it green!

The reason it browns is the oxidation, so the key is to slow it down. (I know I sound really smart right now! Not to worry, I just read about it in Cooking Light. I should have gone on letting you think I am a genius!)

There are 2 things you can do to slow down the oxidation:

Use citrus. Chop up the avocado and squeeze fresh lime juice over it (about 3 tablespoons per avocado). Toss it in the juice and leave until ready to prepare. Then when you are ready to prepare, use some of the juice in the dip.
When you are ready to store, rub a little olive oil on some plastic wrap then press down on the dip (oil side down). This will create a barrier.

This will also work if you want to make it ahead of time for a party….Like Cinco De Mayo!! But remember that once it’s exposed to the air, it can begin to brown, so you can try to avoid that by serving in small batches.

Here’s a fun guacamole variation to try from How Sweet Eats (PS if you haven’t been to this blog, it’s amazing!!)

Mango Guacamole

4 ripe avocados
1 medium tomato, chopped
1/2 cup chopped mango
1/3 cup chopped red onion
1 small jalapeno, seeded and chopped
1/2 teaspoon sea salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
juice of 2 limes
a big bunch of cilantro

Remove avocado meat and combine in a bowl with tomato, jalapeno, onion, mango and a bunch of torn cilantro. Add salt, pepper and lime juice and mix/mash until desired consistency is reached.

Any fun Cinco De Mayo Plans? I’d love to hear them.

My Favorite Self Tanning Products

noreply@blogger.com (Brittany {Sequins To Sippy Cups}) — Fri, 27 Apr 2012 21:20:00 +0000

It’s that time of year again. Really already!? Where legs can no longer hide behind maxi dresses and colored denim. It’s beach season. And for me, that means lots of self tanner in my future.

I have to be honest, I have been using some form of self tanner since I was in middle school…probably. But definitely since high school. Maybe this means that I will have fabulously young looking skin because I don’t try to pretend that I could actually tan on my own. I am white. No peach. And I go from light peach to medium peach to well, I think that’s about it, on my own at least.

Every spring and summer without fail the magazines are filled with the best tanning products to try. I find it’s really hard to find one you like, and you can really spend lots of money trying to find the one that works for you.

Here are my picks.

My Tried and True

Clarins Self Tanning Gel. Clarins makes excellent self tanning products. This was the very first self tanner I tried, and have been hooked on the company ever since. I love the consistency of the gel and it dries very quickly. The color is great.

The Newbie

St. Tropez. I love that this smells nothing like a typical self tanner. I literally can put this on in the morning and wear all day. The color is subtle. But you MUST use the St. Tropez mitt. It is a tinted foam, and trust me you will be sorry if you don’t have that mitt. I feel that it also helps with the application. Sephora sells a kit with the foam, mitt, and this pretty gold illuminator, that's the best deal.

The Cheapo

Neutrogena Build-a-Tan. I like this because the consistency is light and the scent is mild. Every time I put it on my husband says I smell good. It’s gradual color but can repeated once dry to achieve a darker color. I find if I use this for a few days in a row I get a nice color.

The Staple

Jergens. Everyone has used the Jergens gradual tanning lotion. It genius. And idiot proof. But the Natural Glow Express is awesome too. If you’re like me and want it when you want it, then this is a great one to try. Its nice and thick and moisturizing. I use the Medium to Tan skin Tones (which I clearly am not) one because it acts more like a true self tanner giving you instant color.

The Faker

Lorac TANtalizer. Lorac makes this bronze illuminator. Its light like a gel but gives you a lot of color. It washes off so its great for a night out or to enhance your tan. I usually mix it with lotion, because a little goes a long way. One bottle will last you forever.

So what are your favorite tanning products? I’d love to try out some new ones.

Oh and PS, I’ve ordered the Birchbox!!! Yep, I finally made the cut. Can’t wait to tell you all about it!

DIY Pacifier Clip

noreply@blogger.com (Brittany {Sequins To Sippy Cups}) — Mon, 16 Apr 2012 20:52:00 +0000

Ok I admit it. My daughter is addicted to a pacifier. Or “paci” as we call it. It’s a real love/hate relationship we have. At first it was cute, especially because I blinged out her paci’s with Swarovski crystals when she was a baby. Then it was funny, the way she had to have one in her mouth, and one in each hand. But now, it’s a little scary. She’s an addict. Maybe there is a baby 12 step program out there? Mommy and me pacifier anonymous?

I’m not quite sure if I’m “officially” an enabler or if I’m just sick of frantically scouring the house/car/purse for a pacifier. So in order to stop this madness, I made her a paci clip. A pretty one, if I do say so myself! And you can too. If you are sans baby, it would make a really cute shower gift.

You will need:

Beads (I got mine in a single strand, ready to go from Michaels)
stretchy jewelry cord
a suspender clip
a keychain clip
*optional* button, scrapbook thing-a-mi-jig (Can you tell I don’t scrapbook?), or any other decorative object to cover your suspender clip
Glue Gun if covering suspender clip

First you will tie a knot on the keychain clip. This is probably not called a keychain clip. Thank God for pictures, so you know what I’m talking about and don’t have to decode my jargon.

Then you will string your beads and tie a knot on the suspender clip

Then just add the decorative thing-a-mi-jig if using with a glue gun.

Yep, it’s that EASY! And looks so adorable!!

The princess was pleased!

DIY Face scrub

noreply@blogger.com (Brittany {Sequins To Sippy Cups}) — Mon, 09 Apr 2012 19:43:00 +0000

Hey everyone!

Hope everyone had a great Easter weekend. Jhett loved her basket. Mostly just the iridescent grass I used at the bottom of it. Like me she is easily distracted by shiny things!

But it was a good weekend, maybe a little too good, in fact. I think I’m recovering from a food hangover! Yes, it’s real! Very, very real!

My food hangovers usually make my face all puffy, not cute. But they can also make me really sluggish. I get them when I eat too much (like on Holidays where all you do is eat and drink). Or maybe I just eat too much of the wrong things, I mean, come to think of it, I don’t think I’ve ever had a food hangover from salads? But the coconut key lime pie I made was totally worth it!

So, continuing with my Pretty in the Pantry theme, I want to tell you about the simplest face scrub you will ever try.

I have been searching for an exfoliator but haven’t found one that I’m in love with. I also had someone ask me about using my sugar scrub for the face, which I thought may be too harsh, so I new I wasn’t the only one out there looking.

So what’s the secret?

Wait for it…Wait for it…

Baking Soda!

I know, I’m clearly not a genius here with this concoction. Women have been using this for all kinds of things since, well, since forever!

But as an exfoliant, it’s Ah-mazing! Trust me. Its simple, cheap, gentle, and gets the job done. Just add a little to your face wash and that’s all you need. The face wash I use, which I’m addicted to is by Skinceuticals, it’s called Simply Clean, and that’s exactly what it is. I usually get the itch to try something different, but I’ve been using this for years. I also use the Clarisonic face brush, it’s an awesome little gadget to use on your face and body! But I have sensitive skin, so I would not recommend using the Clarisonic with baking soda, that may be a little bit too much. The baking soda is very gentle just be sure not to overdo it, I’m sure using it daily is fine, I probably use it about 3 times a week.

So if you have any good face scrubs you like, let me know. I’m still looking. :)

This baking soda trick (and lots of water) is helping me get over my food hangover today! Hope everyone is off to a good week.

Easter Cuteness

noreply@blogger.com (Brittany {Sequins To Sippy Cups}) — Sun, 08 Apr 2012 17:30:00 +0000

Yay, It’s Easter!

Ok, humor me. I am really excited because this year I was able to really get into it. Even though technically last year was Jhett’s 1st Easter (it seems like she had just hatched!) this year she’s old enough for me to have a little more fun with it. And by fun I mean, me decorating and filling her basket with “cute” things she really doesn’t need!

Here’s some Easter things I love.

Peep Tini’s….What?!!!!

A DIY Chevron Easter Tray….really anything Chevron!

Bunny Bait! Made it several times, so yummy!

A cute Easter Table.

Bunny Printable I heart this!!

Pretty Eggs Trying this next year!!

Easter Subway Art Printable

DIY Easter Candlesticks

Easter Strawberries. How adorable are these?!! (One day I’m going to have to learn how to properly melt chocolate!)

Egg Topiary that would look so cute lining a walkway.

An Eggcellent Kids lunch

Of course Pinterest makes it oh so easy to find all these fun Easter creations. If only there were more hours in a day.

Hope everyone has a very Happy Easter!!

Toddler Friendly Easter Basket

noreply@blogger.com (Brittany {Sequins To Sippy Cups}) — Sun, 08 Apr 2012 01:28:00 +0000

Maybe the title of this should have been Easter Basket for your ~~monster~~ ~~terror~~ ~~diva~~ “energetic” child! Please tell me I’m not the only one with the “energetic” one year old. And by “energetic” I mean we don’t really eat out in public anymore!

But that’s totally normal, right?!…Bueller? Bueller?

So I wanted to find a basket I could use year after year, and fell completely in love with the Pottery Barn ~~everything~~ Easter Baskets. The one I ordered was a pink tutu one. Girly. Pink. Easter Perfection! I started searching for little goodies to fill it before it even arrived, non-candy goodies that is. Trust me, the last thing Little Miss Sassy Pants needs is candy! She gets all hopped up on fruit squeeze pouches, I can’t even imagine her on Peeps and Cadbury Eggs!

Finding things to fill it was actually a lot easier than I thought it would be. This is what I ended up with:

an Easter Bunny Book
swim cover-up. Tulle trimmed and adorable
a bunny straw sippy cup, Straws symbolize independence for her, so this is very “big girl!”
A Boo Boo Bunny that I made for her
Beach & water toys
The cutest sequined purse from the cutest shop, in Rosemary Beach (Fitz & Emme)
Toothbrushes, because hers always end up in the toilet
Sunglasses, so maybe she can stop stealing mine
First words flashcards
and I also bought her some wooden musical instruments that I will most likely regret. Hello Tambourine! I plan on wrapping them in this adorably messy glitter wrapping paper…just looking for more fun ways to torture myself!

I think it came together nicely. Cute right?

I have got to learn how to take better photos, these pictures do not do it justice. We even have a nice camera, but it’s big and scary and stresses me out so I use my little hot pink “point & shoot”, much more me.

Oh yeah, back to the basket….

I did sneak a squeeze pouch in there, just in case she was wasn’t as excited as I was about a bathing suit cover-up and toothbrushes! The Cinnamon Applesauce will definitely push her over the edge!!

Well I was hoping to post this earlier, but life got in the way. Better late than never. So what’s in your Easter basket???

Birchbox

noreply@blogger.com (Brittany {Sequins To Sippy Cups}) — Fri, 06 Apr 2012 11:58:00 +0000

I recently saw something on The Small Things Blog that was AMAZING! If you haven’t checked out that blog, it’s necessary! Does the Pinterest hair girl ring any bells?

Well none the less, I had the chance to meet Kate in person and she’s super sweet and beautiful, and well has just plain fabulous hair. She recently blogged about a Birchbox. Something I’ve never heard of. I wondered if this was something for my backyard, because in that case, I wasn’t interested! But oh no, it’s Good. Real Good!! Let’s just say this could be a gateway drug for people like me. It’s a monthly gift box filled with beauty samples. All for $10 a month! I can barely get lunch for that.

Ok now that I have your mouth watering, I’ll show you what I’m taking about.

Yep, it’s beauty sample insanity!!

Deborah Lippmann, NARS, Samshbox….Oh My! So many great brands are a part of this, I can’t handle it! I feel like a kid in a candy store.

And they have taken it one step further. So when you get your pretty little box, and try out the samples, and shortly after fall in love with one or two (or four). All you have to do is head to their website to purchase them.

Genius.

Ok I admit, this is not the best thing for my resolution to get organized and declutter my life. But who am I kidding that resolution was out the window come January 2nd with one trip to Target. And it feels slightly practical, not spending money on full sized products you may or may not love.

So as you can imagine, I was slightly eager to get my grubby little hands on a Birchbox of my own and what did they do…? Those little b******* waitlisted me! That’s right. I got all hot and bothered and they tell me they will email me when I am able to subscribe.

I know, I know, Patience is a virtue. Just not my virtue. But I will try to practice self control, and continue to refresh my inbox only every 5 minutes until they call on me!! And when they do I will be ready to enter mini beauty sample heaven! And most of all, I can’t wait to share my Birchbox experience with you!

Are any of you subscribers to Birchbox? (Maybe you put in a good word for me? Nothing wrong with a little name dropping!!) But seriously, I’d love to hear what you think it?

How to follow a blog using Reader

noreply@blogger.com (Brittany {Sequins To Sippy Cups}) — Sun, 01 Apr 2012 14:36:00 +0000

Hello!

So if you read my post from last Monday, where I showed you how my friend Amy explained how to follow a blog, this is a follow up to that. Some of you may already use something to follow your blogs, like Google Reader, but if you have no idea what I’m talking about, then your day is about to get a whole lot better!!!!

Google Reader will simplify your world when it comes to following blogs. It basically keeps all of your subscriptions organized for you in one place. Kinda like TIVO!…Now are you with me?! So all of the blogs you follow will be updated every time you log in.

And the best part is you can pick and choose which posts you want to read!

So if trying out the yummy cupcakes I made will send you into a sugar induced shame spiral or reading about my insanely cute find from Old Navy will trigger your shopping addiction, in which you frantically add 15 items to your online shopping cart because of Free Shipping, then by all means, stop yourself! But if you can’t stand to miss one single post, then this will help you with that too! It’s all about options people!

Now I’m going to show you what I’m talking about. Look for the Pink Arrow in my fancy-shmancy demonstration!

This part is a little repetitive from Amy’s post, so bare with me. First you want to subscribe to the blog by clicking on the RSS Feed symbol. That’s the button on the bottom left.

When you click the RSS Feed symbol, you will get a screen like this. It is asking you to add it to your feed burner, aka your reader. Click on the Goggle Button. You will need a Gmail account, to use Google Reader.

Ok, so now you have added a blog to your Reader. To get to your Reader and begin reading the blogs you have subscribed to, just go to the Google homepage, and select the More tab at the top. It will drop down a list of options and you can select Reader.

Once you have logged in and are in your Reader, it will look something like this! Super organized and easy to use. A little preview is generated on the main page for you. All of your subscriptions will be listed on the left.

I hope this helps you. I know I was so relieved once I started using Reader. No more bookmarking or Googling to keep up with your favorites. And if you really want to get hooked, add it to your phone. The app I use is called Feedler, but there are several to choose from. This is not the same as Google Reader, but you can sync it with your Google Reader account.

So now that everyone knows how to follow a blog and can read it in Google Reader, I’d love to know which blogs are your favorite. I’m always looking for new ones to follow.

Easy Easter Centerpiece

noreply@blogger.com (Brittany {Sequins To Sippy Cups}) — Fri, 30 Mar 2012 15:09:00 +0000

Last weekend I started pulling out some Easter decorations. I decided to recreate an Easter basket centerpiece that I did last year. My inspiration for this was from a display I saw in Pottery Barn while I was in Atlanta. They used a large basket with huge branches and small eggs hanging that spelled Happy Easter. I knew it would be something easy for me to mimic at home.

You will need:

a basket
a Styrofoam block
some moss
floral branches
decorative eggs
little hanging eggs or Easter ornaments

TIP: All of these items can be found at a craft store.

First take the Styrofoam and fit it snuggly in the basket.

Then arrange the branches in the Styrofoam. Depending on the weight of your hanging items, the branches may drop a little.

Then cover the Styrofoam with the moss. If you have a few gaps, don’t worry about it, you can cover it up later with eggs or some flowers from your branches.

Now just start hanging eggs and ornaments from your branches and cover the moss with a few eggs.

How cute are these little ornaments! You can find ones like these at Pier One.

The chick with the tutu is my favorite!

The finished product will look like this.

What Easter decorations are you doing this year?

If you decide to try this centerpiece, please share your pictures, I’d love to see how it turns out.

How To Follow a Blog

noreply@blogger.com (Brittany {Sequins To Sippy Cups}) — Mon, 26 Mar 2012 14:10:00 +0000

Some of you may be fully up to speed on the “blog world”, but me, little old me, who just started a blog, not so much! See, I “thought” I followed blogs. I would randomly type in the address and scroll through entries staying somewhat updated. But then I met my friend Amy who has a fabulous blog, All In A Day, and she completely opened my eyes!

At first I thought I was the only one clueless as to how to follow a blog. But after starting my own, and ~~harassing~~ asking my friends to follow me, I realized I wasn’t the only one. So when my friend Amy posted a “How To” post I had to share the love with you all. It’s so easy. You are going to love me for this. Or maybe you will just love Amy. Check it out on her Blog.

And while you are over there at All in a Day, check out my guest post I did for her last week. It’s a cute little tutorial on a Boo Boo Bunny. Basically washcloth origami for your kid’s boo boo’s. I had one when I was little and loved it! It’s so simple to make and would be really cute in an Easter Basket!!

I’m working on getting my house ready for Easter, and hope to post some fun decor and projects, including Jhett’s Easter basket. I’d love to hear what you all are doing around the house for Easter. Happy Monday. Hope everyone has a good week.

I’m linking this post and my Boo Boo Bunny up to Bloom, a super cute blog.

WIWW: What I Wore Wednesday

noreply@blogger.com (Brittany {Sequins To Sippy Cups}) — Wed, 21 Mar 2012 20:57:00 +0000

Hey everyone! Long time no chat. My computer is officially back from the dead! I was really struggling there. Anyway, I have decided to give WIWW “What I Wore Wednesday” a shot. So this blogger over at The Pleated Poppy has come up with this great way for us to hold each other accountable to getting dressed. Not like we are walking around naked all day, but for me at least, it’s a no workout clothes when you have no intention of actually working out kinda thing. Please tell me I’m not the only one who does that?

So today Jhett and I are off to a playdate with my friend Kristi and her two kids. Lunch and the park. Feed them, then wear them out so they take nice long naps!! Sounds like a plan to me!

So today’s outfit feels like pajamas but is much more socially acceptable. It’s just some basic black leggings with a simple GAP top (that’s the pajamas part, this top is so freaking comfortable!) that is light and loose. Playing in the park means chasing your kid, going down slides, thru tunnels, and really who knows what else. So I needed to be prepared, no uncomfortable undergarments (i.e. strapless bra) and something washable, in case I get thrown up on, spilled on or worse (which is better left unsaid).

Here’s my outfit pulled from Polyvore. Of course I threw in some Louboutins for kicks. Totally playdate appropriate.

And here’s how it looks. Don’t mind me, just taking pictures of myself with my phone.

Top: Gap (It’s on Sale!)

Leggings: Cabi

Bracelets: Cartier, Saks Outlet

Monogram Necklace: Jennifer Zeuner

Shoes, Banana Republic (from a long time ago)

This isn’t my most thrilling outfit I admit. But it’s comfy and casual and perfect for a day like today. This top could easily be dressed up for a casual date night. So as I continue to post for WIWW, I’d love to hear feedback. Good or bad. I can handle it. And I’m always open to suggestions. Or if you find any great outfits, please share the love!

PS today I will be linking up at WIWW at The Pleated Poppy.

Lucky Charm Cupcakes

noreply@blogger.com (Brittany {Sequins To Sippy Cups}) — Wed, 14 Mar 2012 00:31:00 +0000

It's almost St. Patrick's Day!

And boy have my celebrations changed. I am no longer stressed about finding something green to wear out that night, or racing to get in line for green beer. But that's ok. I've made peace with this.

This year I decided I would make something green of my own. Cupcakes. Lucky Charm Cupcakes. Lucky Charm Funfetti Cupcakes to be exact. I mean who doesn't love Funfetti? If you've never had Funfetti, well then, you haven't lived! It's so simple yet so amazing. And although I was a little upset when they changed the Funfetti frosting on me, I've moved on.

Ok, back to these delicious St. Patty's cupcakes I made.

They were ridiculously easy to make. I didn't get crazy making some special recipe. It was literally plain old box mix Funfetti. Don't judge. Pillsbury knows what they are doing people!

Oh Wait, I did use egg whites and applesauce in mine because I believe it makes them more fluffy and healthy. So have two or three or...?? I'm not going to tell!

Ok so you have a basic cupcake, and now use any frosting you like, store-bought is fine or homemade, because you are feeling guilty for using boxed cupcake mix, there is no judgement here. Vanilla is what I used.

Add some green food coloring to get your desired shade. Toss the frosting in a Ziploc bag, snip the tip and swirl on the pretty green frosting.

Now comes the fun part. The Lucky Charms.

Which I might add are made with Whole Grains! That's right General Mills and I are looking out for you.

Tip: The cereal gets stale fast. So wait until just before serving to decorate.

This had me thinking, what else could I make with lucky charms? That is, if the box lasts through the week.

DIY Sugar Scrub

noreply@blogger.com (Brittany {Sequins To Sippy Cups}) — Mon, 05 Mar 2012 15:00:00 +0000

I’m a self-proclaimed beauty addict and product junkie, this is not new news! But with a little one, just getting out of the house can be a huge ordeal, let alone actually making to a store and getting uninterrupted time to browse products. So today I have decided to take matters in my own hands! I’m getting Pretty In The Pantry!

My skin has been so dry lately.

Which is not a cute look…

Especially after a week old spray tan.

Enough said?!

So a gentle sugar scrub was just what I needed. I am obsessed with all things coconut so that was the ~~flavor~~ scent that I chose. I seriously had to stop myself from eating this. It smells so yummy. Ok, fine, I admit it, I tasted it…and it’s GOOD!

Vanilla Coconut Sugar Scrub

½ cup coconut oil

½ cup sugar (I used plain old granulated white sugar, but you can use cane, raw or brown)

¼ -½ tsp Coconut extract*

¼-½ tsp Vanilla extract*

*I used McCormick brand, just like you get in the baking aisle.

Mix all ingredients together. That’s it. 5 min, maybe less, you’re done!

Tip: You don’t have to measure the ingredients if you don’t want to. You can simply add sugar and oil until desired consistency is achieved then add extracts little by little until you get the desired fragrance.

Warning! Extremely soft hands may result while making this recipe!

This makes a really cute gift too.

I had no idea how many beauty treatments I could actually concoct in my own kitchen. So hopefully, Pretty in the Pantry will be a regular post here. Let me know if you try this scrub and want more recipes.

POP of Color

noreply@blogger.com (Brittany {Sequins To Sippy Cups}) — Mon, 27 Feb 2012 16:39:00 +0000

I actually did not plan this post but while at Blog Conference (yeah you read that right, don’t judge!) last weekend with my friend Amy, I had on this casual comfy outfit that was so inexpensive and received tons of compliments. I’ve been in such a black rut lately that this pink skirt had to go home with me when I saw it!! Its so fun, and really comfy. The scarf is a light color blocked piece that I got randomly because I loved the color combo. And the top is my absolute favorite tank ever! I literally have one in every color! So I figured, I would share this in case you may want to replicate or do something similar. I wore with gold sandals and a cuff.

Tank. Mossimo, Target $9
Scarf. Xhilaration, Target $15
Skirt. Old Navy $23

This pic feels SO CHEESY, but I wanted you to see how it looks on and I refuse to prance around in outfits and pretend like I’m not having my picture taken.

P.S. check out Retail Me Not for coupon codes

If you get it and love it, let me know!

I'm linking this up to WIWW (What I Wore Wednesday) at The Pleated Poppy check it out.

DIY Braided Headband

noreply@blogger.com (Brittany {Sequins To Sippy Cups}) — Fri, 24 Feb 2012 21:36:00 +0000

So it was only a few short weeks after I had Jhett that I became a crafting fiend! I don’t know if this happens to everyone, but it’s intense. Crafting is like nesting’s evil twin! Picture it, the baby is sleeping and you are cracked out getting glue gun burns as you try to create some homemade masterpiece out of who knows what! And I’m pretty sure having a girl will only intensify this “sickness”…hello hair bows! Well that, and a little thing called Pinterest, maybe you’ve heard of it?!!

And let me just say, I am not a true crafter or DIY chick. I’m really quite flakey. More of a wanna-be. I have lots of random materials around the house from miscellaneous projects I may or may not have finished, most likely because I got distracted my something shiny!

This led to a very strict no crafting policy! It was overkill. Random crystals, beads ribbon, paper and bottles of glue. I had to stop myself. And other than gluing a few toothpicks on some cupcake toppers for my BF’s husband’s surprise party, I had stuck to it. No homemade cards. No holiday wreaths. Not even a Valentine’s Day tablescape in sight. Trust me this was tough.

But then I found this website, P.S. I Made This, and instantly I knew I had just fallen off the wagon! (I’ve never been one for willpower). This is crack for people like me. DIY with a highly fashionable purpose, this could be dangerous.

There were lots of projects to choose from, I had a hard time trying to decide which one to try first. But narrowed it down. I really need my roots done. So…braided headband it is!

THE INSPIRATION (from P.S. I Made This)

Of course I was fresh out of the Mercedes-Benz leather that P.S. used, so I had to hit Joann’s Fabrics. Not to worry I found some camel colored “pleather” just as good right? I used four types of trimmings: two gold metallic woven ones, a cream braided rope and my ‘pleatha! Ta Da!

THE END RESULT

What do you think?

If you try this at home, send me pics. I’d love to see.

Apple Jigglers

noreply@blogger.com (Brittany {Sequins To Sippy Cups}) — Wed, 22 Feb 2012 14:36:00 +0000

Some of you are thinking, “Isn’t that a jello shot I did in college?” Sorry. Not that kind of recipe. Although maybe it could be…?

This is a great addition to finger foods for little ones. Ok, big kids will like it too. I remember when Jhett was little and I was trying to get her to learn to feed herself. I thought, how many more puffs and yogurt melts can I feed this child. I hated giving her stuff from a box so I found this healthy recipe that is easy to eat for babies with just a few teeth. It may take some practice because they are a little slippery, but hey, that’s half the fun.

Apple Jigglers

1/8-1/4 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
1 cup unsweetened applesauce. (I used homemade because its so so easy to do)
2 cups apple juice. (I used organic with no added sugar)
3 small packages unflavored gelatin

In a small bowl, mix cinnamon into applesauce and set aside. Pour 1 cup cold apple juice in 8x8 pan and sprinkle gelatin on top. Bring remaining cup of apple juice to a boil. Stir boiling juice into the gelatin and cold apple juice. Stir in applesauce. Refrigerate for 1/2 hour and then stir to keep applesauce evenly distributed. If you omit this step the applesauce settles to the bottom, but it still tastes great! Refrigerate for an additional 2 1/2 hours or until firm. Cut into squares with a knife, or use cookie cutters to cut into shapes, and serve. How easy is that?!

I used mini cookie cutters to make Jhett’s. She loved stacking and arranging them on her plate. Cute!

What’s a BB?

noreply@blogger.com (Brittany {Sequins To Sippy Cups}) — Wed, 15 Feb 2012 21:02:00 +0000

If I was a beauty product what would I be? 5 years ago I probably would’ve said MAC Vanilla eye shadow. 10 years ago I probably would’ve said Glitter Eyeliner (don’t ask!) But today, I would want to be a BB, a beauty balm, or as some refer to it, Blemish Balm.
Now I’d like to think I’m pretty up to date with all the latest lotions and potions, but apparently this little guy slipped right by me! Once I realized I had missed it, I immediately, HAD. TO. HAVE. IT!
So what exactly is a beauty balm? Well for all you multi-tasking mamas, get ready. This one product does it all, just like YOU! Beauty Balms, or BB’s as everyone calls them do a little bit of everything. The most popular ones prime, moisturize, correct, conceal and protect. Got that?

These balms have been around for a while in Asia, and have recently become all the rage in the US. So many to choose from. Which one is for you?

I recently tried a few, and this is what I found.
Estee Lauder BB. This is one of my favorites. Good coverage, nice light scent, similar to their DayWear moisturizer. Skin feels smooth and pores looked smaller.
Clinique BB. Also a nice product. Feels thick, but in a good way. No scent, skin felt smooth, I liked the coverage.
Smashbox BB. This felt more like a primer to me. I read on their website not to layer, meaning to add more product, so I didn’t get the complete coverage I wanted. I regularly use their Photo Finish primer, and don’t think I like this enough to switch.
Boscia BB. My least favorite, because it didn’t feel smooth going on. Also, it has small “sparkles” in it, which I noticed on my hands but not on my face, so I think it’s intended to give you a luminous look. I prefer a slightly more matte face so this product wouldn’t be good for me.
So…after trying a bunch of different ones, am I sold? Yes! I have been looking for something light enough to give the No Makeup-Makeup look, that I could wear to the gym or grocery store without scaring people. My recommendation is to try a few (all the counters gave me samples) and see what you like. For me the perfect day makeup combo was: BB, a little concealer, and a little blush.
If you give it a try, let me know what you think, and which one is your favorite.

Happy Valentine’s Day!

noreply@blogger.com (Brittany {Sequins To Sippy Cups}) — Tue, 14 Feb 2012 13:59:00 +0000

Whether it’s your sweetie, your baby, your doggie, your DVR…be with the one you love!
Hope everyone has a great day!

So Long Elmo!

noreply@blogger.com (Brittany {Sequins To Sippy Cups}) — Sun, 12 Feb 2012 21:17:00 +0000

Sure the little guy is cute and all, but I’m kinda done with him!…On diapers I mean.
Yes the cute laughing fuzzy friend is a staple on all of Jhett’s little diapers, but not anymore! That little red guy can laugh and sing and dance all he wants but my little sweetie is not wearing him anymore! Not since she started getting these horrible rashes. I could not get her changed fast enough, but something was irritating her skin. So of course as a mom, I’m feeling guilty and confused that my little girl is so irritated. I tried everything, new wipes, creams etc.
But I found something pretty amazing. The Honest Company.
It was co-founded by Jessica Alba, and strives to provide safe products for you and your family. I first found them thru Zulily. And if you don’t know what Zulily is, you have to join. Think daily Baby Sample Sale! It’s worth it, trust me. They sold Uppa Baby’s for like half off (I was not happy to see this a year after I bought mine, but still, awesome sales) I was intrigued, so I went to their website to learn more. I was amazed when I learned all the nasty things that are put in our children’s everyday products.
This stemmed a major panic in my house. What else was I using on Jhett that was potentially harmful? Recently Johnson & Johnson recalled baby shampoo for having formaldehyde releasing preservatives in it. These chemicals were thought to have trace amounts of cancer causing toxins in them. What?? We use this stuff on newborn babies! This is scary stuff.
Now seriously, I’m not saying that any of these companies are bad or that using them makes any of us bad moms. All I’m saying is it gave me personally a huge wake up call to take a closer look.
Fast Forward a month later, I barely want to put clothes on my baby girl because these diapers are so stinkin cute!!! A natural safe product that isn’t “brown”? This may be love.

So how do they hold up? Pretty good! No complaints so far. They don’t leak and last through the night! I’ve also tried their wipes, and am not totally sold. So I wouldn’t suggest buying them. They are on the thin side and don’t pop up in a wipe warmer, which to me is super annoying. I like 7th Generation ones instead.
More good news! These diapers are done on a delivery system. So you get them every month sent to your house. Done and Done! They offer free trials on their products thru their website too. I’m going to try some of their home cleaning products next. Let’s just say the Honest Company has made me one happy mama, sorry Elmo!

Obsessed

noreply@blogger.com (Brittany {Sequins To Sippy Cups}) — Mon, 06 Feb 2012 15:53:00 +0000

I recently found The Beauty Department and it was love at first click! I’m a huge beauty junkie so this site has quickly become my current addiction. I especially love finding cute ways to do my hair so it looks styled but effortless when I’m running around being a mama.
This is my new fav

And it’s so simple! Its basically a braid within a braid.
Section hair into 3 pieces to braid. Take one of those sections and braid it. Then braid the whole thing. How easy! Keep it loose and pull slightly to get this look. You could definitely experiment by adding twists or a mini braid in the front like this picture.
Yep, I’m in love!

Jhett Olivia is ONE!

noreply@blogger.com (Brittany {Sequins To Sippy Cups}) — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 20:25:00 +0000

So in November my little JLO (that’s one of the many nicknames we have for her, its stands for the 3 letters of her monogram) turned 1!!! And it was a fabulous soiree, if I do say so myself!
So fabulous in fact, I thought it could actually be published on a kids party blog…that shall remain nameless ;) I submitted my pics and crossed my fingers. Needless to say, it wasn’t selected (which of course has me even more amped up for next year, uh oh!) But….guess who has their own blog to post all the fabulous, gorgeous pics from Jhett’s party, oh yeah…ME!
The party was entirely centered around this dress I bought in Winter Park, FL with my friends when Jhett was oh, 3 months old? Yeah, I’m crazy like that! But it was worth it, I mean look at this cutie!

It was pure ~PINK SPARKLE RUFFLE PERFECTION~
This Highchair was Casey’s mother’s and his as a child. I convinced her its would be way better….PINK!

Silver Branches with blinged out baby pictures, cake batter blondies, sprinkled rice krispies, whoopie pies, & of course Milk Martini’s for the lil ones!


Mimosa Bar…of course!

The Goldfish Martini’s & Cherrios were a hit with the kids.
The table was covered with fabric I had made. It says her name in my handwriting.

Cupcake Decorating Station for the Favors!

Oh yeah, did I forget to mention the Birthday Girl showed up late…Fashionably Late…to her own party?! Her wonderful Auntie Jill was watching her for me while I worked on the finishing details.

Her dress was so big that it didn’t quite fit in the highchair!!



Such an Amazing Day!