A Place for Us

DIY Pallet Art

noreply@blogger.com (Destiny) — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 21:50:00 +0000

I'm getting there! This is the LAST project before I reveal my living room and dining room to you guys! It’s been a year in the making, I cant believe it:0) But now that the holidays are over I always get stuck with POST Christmas decorating. I never know whether to winter up my house with winter décor or head right into spring with wreaths and greenery. To be honest it feels like Spring here in Phoenix so its kinda hard to have cold weather décor hanging when its 65 degrees outside:0) So for my front room I decided to use some everyday décor for now.

INSERT-> DIY PALLET ART

Pinterest is the first place I saw PALLET art and basically what it is, is you take a shipping pallet and use the wood to create a piece of art or sign. We all know I LOVE to decorate with signs because it gives any room instant charm. But what I love about this particular type of art is the materials used. Something super simple can be recycled to make something beautiful.

Source: homestoriesatoz.com via Donna on Pinterest

Source: theinspiredroom.net via The on Pinterest

My friend Katie from Sweet Rose Studio ( I’m such a name dropper…ha) created her own version and gifted it to her newlywed friends. So sweet right?! Check out how she made hers here.

Source: sweetrosestudio.com via Stacey on Pinterest

Here are some more organic examples…

Source: kellysimonsays.com via Sarae on Pinterest

Source: pamelajoycedesigns.blogspot.com via Donna on Pinterest

Source: loveoffamilyandhome.blogspot.com via Tiffany on Pinterest

Source: youngancrafty.blogspot.com via Dana on Pinterest

So this isn't anything new per say but I did want to show you how I made mine!

First off I didn’t have any pallets near me. Well I did, the builder around the corner has some stacked up in a dirt filled corner. But know one is ever around and I feel so bad just taking them…lol! But I think craigslist would be a great source to look for them. I just never made the time.

So I just used some wood that I had left over from my DIY Fireless Fireplace and Mantel Project.

First, I cut them down to size and glued them all together with some wood glue and let that sit for a couple of hours.

I wanted a more finished look so I added a trim using 1x2s. I also attached them using wood glue.

I put some weight on everything so that it would sit nice and tight bond together. I let that sit overnight as well. (If you need to you can sand any rough spots. But I didn’t need to:0)

The next day I painted some left over yellow from my buffet around the trim and painted the inside with left over Valspar Oatbran from some other house projects.

Then I added some vinyl that I cut with my Silhouette machine.

And there you have it sittin pretty on my mantel!

As far as the saying, it’s song by Gungor. I've had it stuck in my head now for a good two months now..hehe ( I ALWAYS have a song in my head. You too? ) I don’t know if you’ve heard it or not but it’s soooo sweet! “You make beautiful things, you make beautiful thing out of us.” Take a listen…I know you'll love it:0)

Pinterest Kitchen Inspiration

noreply@blogger.com (Destiny) — Wed, 11 Jan 2012 16:08:00 +0000

I know I'm suppose to be showing you the final reveal of my living room and dining project but I'm not. hehe. BUT it is coming soon. Just sit tight because I have one more tiny project that I want to add to the space. Plus I'm waiting to see if the computer man can recover any of my photos that where lost in the great computer crash of 2012. (did you hear the dramatic music playing in the back..ha)

So for now I will share with you my latest project. THE KITCHEN.

Yippee! Finally my kitchen gets a face lift. Painted cabinets, bead board wallpaper with a twist, new hardware and some lighting are all in the works.

Below are some pretty Pinterest kitchens I love. If you would like to see my entire board you can follow this Perfect Pretty Kitchen Pins Board..

That way whenever I find something similar to my style you will see it on your main Pinterest board. Nice.

Take a look at my little black notebook which has some rough thoughts of some of my favorite elements…rustic charm, black accents, white cabinetry, lanterns, yolk pendants, glass, brick,wood floors, subway tiles, nickel hardware and stainless steel appliances just to name a few!

Here are some photos with some or all of the elements. Helps to have a visual! Sometimes you can imagine it and other times your like, I need to see it! Right? Insert Pinterest…the most over stimulating image gallery in the world.

Source: houzz.com via A Place for Us Blog on Pinterest

Source: cococozy.com via A Place for Us Blog on Pinterest

Source: cocokelley.blogspot.com via A Place for Us Blog on Pinterest

Source: thekitchendesigner.org via A Place for Us Blog on Pinterest

Source: fromgreenwich.tumblr.com via A Place for Us Blog on Pinterest

Source: housebeautiful.com via A Place for Us Blog on Pinterest

So what's your pretty Pinterest kitchen look like? Is it on a farm or chic in the city? Or do you love those Ikea catalog kitchens with oodles of storage?

My Computer is Sick….

noreply@blogger.com (Destiny) — Wed, 11 Jan 2012 02:04:00 +0000

Yep. My good ole Dell is sick. Both my laptop and desktop. I managed to kill some viruses on my desktop, so that’s good. But my laptop is my blogging hub. I've got all my precious photos on there! I have about 94% of my pictures on an external hard drive, PRAISE THE LORD! BUT because of the crazy holiday season I haven't backed anything up the last few months. Thanksgiving, New York Trip, Christmas, all might be lost. I don’t know about you but when I start to have computer issues, my true colors start to come out…

A lot of under my breath words were said. Some inappropriate and others, very inappropriate.

So all this frustration has got me thinking about purchasing a non virus safe as a button computer…..you know what I’m talking about? Yep, a good ole MAC. I received a gorgeous iPad from my hubby this Christmas and it’s a dream. Super easy to navigate, super chic and cute. (because that matters right!) I'm so excited about this year and then my computer had to go and act like the devil…tryin to kill my blog world joy!! haha

So in the mean time I will

A) try to get my virus infected computer up and running again

B) be looking for a new shiny MAC

C) be rocking back in fourth in a fetal position because A and B are not options

until then!

Pretty Blue Jars For Less

noreply@blogger.com (Destiny) — Thu, 05 Jan 2012 03:44:00 +0000

I love giving you posts like this because I LOVE to help you save money!

I just got my new West Elm Catalog in the mail today. I'm loving so many things in this catalog but that’s for another post, maybe a My Style Monday:0) But anyways these super pretty glass jars caught my eye…

Love these for decorating bookshelves, kitchen and perfect for adding texture and color. Plus I love glass:0)

These recycled glass jugs come in SEVEN different colors and two different sizes. The smallest one will cost you19.00 and a large on will run you about 29.00.

But yes, I did find it for less at DOWNEASTHOME a sponsor here at APFU. They have similar jars for only 2.99 a piece:0) I have one in a light blue and one in a darker blue. I guess these little glasses were super popular this season because they only have blue in stock. For under 20.00 you can make yourself a pretty little collection of blue glasses. I used mine this Christmas but plan on using the blue in my kitchen. I ‘m hoping they get green and light blue back in stock SOON. Of course I will let you know!

I can tell you these glasses have a good weight to them and I’m so surprised that they only cost 2.99! SCORE. I love that light blue…and really want to see the green. Don’t you think a collection of them would look so pretty this spring?!

I have so much to blog about! Resolutions, blog goals, my new obsessions the iPAD and the Instagram app. I feel so behind because I’ve been stuck in VACA mode for the longest time! Slowly moving out of it now though.

This year is gonna be a great blogging year, I can feel it!

A Place for Us Blog {Best of 2011}

noreply@blogger.com (Destiny) — Sat, 31 Dec 2011 03:39:00 +0000

The year is almost over and so is another year of blogging! So for your viewing pleasure here are the best posts that you LOVED on my blog this year:0)

First up brown paper flowers, a SHOCKER? lol! These were a big hit and I had so much fun creating them and teaching them to my girlfriends. Who would have thought something so simple as brown bags, scissors and glue could make something so elegant.

Brown Paper Flowers Tutorial

Another famous post that won’t go away. I think next year I will give this hallway a new look with some updated signs! Wait…never mind. I still love these to much…hehe.

Hallways. Bringing the outside in!

This year I started to share some parties on the blog. You guys LOVED this original party.

How to throw your OWN Favorite Things Party! {plus} a Giveaway!!

Because of the brown paper flowers my DIY fireplace and mantel got some love as well:0) Nice.

Mantel meets Autumn

Earlier this year I did and review for Easy Canvas Prints and they are getting me TONS of referral's. Love how this canvas came out. Did you guys order one this year?

Easy Canvas Prints and A Giveaway!

This was a big hit. The X-Wall:0)

X-Wall Details

This year I made over my living room and dining room. I used a beautiful yellow on one of my sideboards.

Yellow Sideboard

A fun patio makeover was done this summer. So easy to do.

Just a little {Patio Style}

Thanks so much for another wonderful blogging year! Cheers to you for making this year spectacular! With your love and support I know it will just keep getting better!

xoxo Destiny, your blogging friend:0)

My Style Monday {2012 Color of the Year}

noreply@blogger.com (Destiny) — Tue, 27 Dec 2011 06:06:00 +0000

Hello friends!

So happy to be with you this fine Monday! Did you all have a wonderful Christmas? I hope so! I can’t believe another year has come and gone, makes me so sad because that means my babies are getting older:0( Anyway enough about that. I’m super excited to be talking about Pantone Color of the Year: Tangerine Tango today! I know what your thinking, you mean orange. No, not really, tangerine tango is definitely in the orange family but it’s so much more than that! Take a look!

Source: blog.hgtv.com via Amy on Pinterest

First off, if your not familiar with Pantone they are a company that identifies and matches colors. Designers in cosmetics,fashion and the interior design industry use their well know color books. So when it comes to anything COLOR they are like THE authority people.

Source: houzz.com via Jamie on Pinterest

The color tangerine tango was chosen by Pantone because of it’s “sophisticated but at the same time dramatic and seductive” I totally agree! This deep reddish orange can be a great accent color to use in any room this year. But just like anything you decorate with, make sure you love it. How horrible would it be to plan an entire room around a color just because its trendy and you end up hating it half way through the year. So decide. Do you love it, like it or hate it?

I could use that cute dress. This is going to be a pretty summer color for me!

A couple of months ago I use a similar color in a clients bedroom. But do you see the difference? This one is more of a burnt orange. The tangerine tango is brighter and fresher. Which automatically makes it more modern than this muted orange below.

How do you feel about this new trendy color. Is it new to you or have you use this bright hue in your home before. Is it a keeper?

New York and The Nate Show {Part IV}

noreply@blogger.com (Destiny) — Wed, 21 Dec 2011 17:06:00 +0000

Ok so we finally made it to show day!

But before I tell you all about my Nate day. A lot of you sent me emails about this outfit from day two..

So here is the break down.

My tunic,jeans and boots all came from OLD NAVY:0)

My necklace, which has tons of sparkles is from DownEastBasics which you can get here.

Ok for Nate day, we started off by getting a really great breakfast at a spot called Good Enough to Eat, which was only a few blocks from our hotel. We really didn’t know where to eat so all I did was Google “ best places to eat…upper westside Manhattan” and this is what popped up! Google saves the day again:0) My phone is so smart! ha

At this point my nerves already started to surface. Although my pancakes and strawberry butter were delicious and the restaurant was cute, I just couldn’t concentrate on anything else but THE SHOW!

Reggie thought it would be a good idea to take a walk since we had a few hours. So we window shopped some cute stores like Giggle children's boutique, a discount Barney’s and we even saw a Goodwill right in the middle of the city:0)

After that we headed back to the hotel to get ready….

then hopped into a taxi and headed to the studio!

My producers met us in the lounge and took Reggie and I up to our green room.

I’m so happy Reggie was able to come on this trip. He took care of me and was just my hubby! I mean this was my FIRST TV appearance. Most people get to warm up on their local morning show and get a feel for how things work. So everything was new to me! It was great having something familiar :0)

Within the next hour or so they whisked me away to hair and make up so that I could look TV ready. The girls were so sweet! They didn’t do anything to my hair and just touched up my eye makeup but the conversations were good.

After that they stole my familiar face and took him down to the audience.

BYE!!!

Ok, now my nerves were really setting in!!! So I had some one on one time with Nate. He didn’t say much. I guess he was a little nervous too. lol!

I can’t remember to much after that because of the adrenaline rush I had for the next TWO hours but I will tell you this,it was FUN!!! I was nervous, I was scared, but I also was excited and I felt SO honored just to be there. In the beginning of this whole thing I made sure to let you know that this was God’s plan. So much better than my own:0) So I let go, went on the stage and had the time of my life. I know what people mean when they say “be in the moment” because it’s HARD to realize what your doing when so many different emotions are happening at the same time!! Thanks again everyone for your LOVE. I really felt it while I was there! I will let you know an air date soon! Until then:0)

New York and The Nate Show {Part III}

noreply@blogger.com (Destiny) — Tue, 20 Dec 2011 15:00:00 +0000

Weren’t those corner markets dreamy! Again, excuse my cookie finger smudge:0)

The same day Reggie and I made our way to FAO Schwarz to get some gifts for the kids!

But we quickly realized that would be a challenge. You see those cute little animal figurines below. They were about this size of my thumb. $49.95. Yeah.

We loved Indiana Jones constructed from Legos!!

We did TONS of walking. My legs were so sore. My ankles, sore. My little toe, super sore. New Yorkers do a lot of walking:0) Our next stop was the Empire State Building. We made our way to the top after passing 100+ floors. Someone got a little freaked out. But me, I kept snapping photos:0) It was beautiful. I love being up high and seeing the world from a different point of view.

Our next stop, Macy’s:0)

I only took out my camera once. I was way to busy shopping…lol!

But it was insane! I see why Macy’s is a big deal out east. Dillard's? What’s Dillard's?:0)

At this point we were losing steam. Reggie and I were SO tired and hungry. Imagine those two factors at play while we were trying to navigate through a city that never sleeps. So we caught a cab so our achy feet could rest and headed to Carnegie Deli. A popular tourist spot in NYC.

I would have taken more pictures but remember, I was TIRED. But I did manage to snap one.

Yes, that ridiculous sandwich with three tiny pieces of bread would be a turkey club. I think I had about “five” bites before I asked for a to go bag. When they brought it out, our table neighbors stared cracking up. Obviously I didn’t now what I had ordered…lol!

After our bites we headed back to the hotel and I took a four hour power nap:0) The rest of the night we spent resting and had our second night of pizza and more INSOMNIA cookies:0).

Tomorrow? The finale. Come check out my day as I got ready to be on the Nate Show aka the scariest day of my life:0)

My Style Monday {My Christmas House}

noreply@blogger.com (Destiny) — Tue, 20 Dec 2011 06:06:00 +0000

Can you believe Christmas is HERE! Say what!?! I feel so behind this year since Reggie and I took a mini vaca in the middle of the chaos…lol:0)

Ok, not exactly but you get the point, right?!

So here’s my Christmas house this year...

In the family room I used pretty blues,creams, silvers and some green as well.

In our living room and dining room I went with metallics and a more decorative slim tree!

I’m looking forward to some post Christmas sales this year to stock up on some more goodies! I got almost all of my blue and cream decor for 75% off at my local Fry’s!

Are you all done with your Christmas décor, or is it work in process until the day of :0)?

New York and The Nate Show {Part II}

noreply@blogger.com (Destiny) — Mon, 19 Dec 2011 18:09:00 +0000

Are you guys ready for PART II?! Ok, great! But before we start I do have to apologize for my lens smudge that I had the ENTIRE day. Must have been those 4 chocolate chip cookies I had.:0)I have know idea how I let it go unnoticed!!

But I know you love me anyways!:0) haha! Moving on…

So the next day we woke up and had a little breakfast at a spot next door and I order a BIG OLE hot chocolate. Man, I love me some hot chocolate:0) and after that we took a little walk to Central Park which was just a few blocks from our hotel.

I was completely obsessed the with massive size of all the buildings, the details, the windows, everything, so I just kept snapping photos in hopes of keeping the memory of them forever…so in love.

After our little walk we took a taxi to the CBS studio to talk about what I would be doing on the show.

All the guys were super nice and were so funny! They really made Reggie and I feel welcomed! Took our coats, offered us some beverages, we felt right at home. The art studio was a lovely collection of EVERTHING..lol! I could have spent all day creating in there! Imagine wanting to make something and OH there it is:0) Super cool!

We spent about and hour in there chatting it up said goodbye and then we hit the streets..AGAIN!

The Streets of New York? Yep, so cool.

I wish with all my heart that PHX had street markets like these. Imagine a place where you can pick up fresh flowers, fresh fruit and fresh Christmas trees. Oh you have that? Well, I’m jealous!!

Did you read that sign.. TWO DOZEN ROSES for 10.00! My house would be decked out in roses for sure..lol!

Are you overloaded with pictures yet?

Good cause I got more:0) Come back tomorrow and check out my visit to THE MACY’s, Empire State Building, a ridiculous sandwich and the biggest toy store on earth.

New York and The Nate Show {Part I}

noreply@blogger.com (Destiny) — Sun, 18 Dec 2011 20:44:00 +0000

Well it’s about time right?!

So, let’s see. How was my trip to NYC,The Big APPLE, The concrete jungle? My first time EVER on TV with that cutie pie Nate Berkus?

It was AH-MAZING. Every single thing about it!

I know my girly girls want to know what I wore and what I packed, so here ya go!

I HAD to go shopping for this trip and I was so fortunate to have the fine folks at DOWNEAST BASICS sponsor my trip by hooking me up with some warm weather lovelies. Like these scarves….

Perfect for a “scarfing”down a NYC corner stand hot dog:0)

and some oh so cute gloves to keep my hands all toasty:0)

I also packed some adorable accessories and a couple of bags, cuz a girls gotta have choices!

I didn’t really know what coat I wanted to bring but I ended up going with a classic pea coat that I picked up from Old Navy the night before! It was the perfect weight and really kept me warm while we headed out to sight see!

And boy did we sightsee:0) The night we got in we left our charming hotel, The Lucerne on the Upper Westside of Manhattan to grab something to eat. We went right across the street to a little Italian spot Coppolas and had some NYC pizza. It was so GOOD people! So good we had it two nights in a row:0) We know when to stick to a good thing! lol!

After that we joined the locals on the subway

and headed down to see some lights

and of course The Rockefeller Center to look at THE tree!

We also hit up Magnolia Bakery and picked up some hot chocolate and and a CUPCAKE:0) Seriously the best cupcake I have EVER had. It wasn’t too sweet, super moist and fluffy. Perfection.

After that we headed back to the hotel to get some rest because the next day I was heading to the art studio to set up and discuss some of my projects! Come back tomorrow to see day two!

Girls Night In Guide {Holiday Entertaining}

noreply@blogger.com (Destiny) — Fri, 09 Dec 2011 22:08:00 +0000

Thanks to Duncan Hines for sponsoring my writing. There's no limit to the baking possibilities, so grab your favorite Duncan Hines mix and Comstock or Wilderness fruit fillings and Bake On! www.duncanhines.com.

If your thinking about gathering up the girls for some Christmas cheer, then here is a quick guide for a fun girls night in.

Start off with a fun color scheme! I think a pink and green is beautiful combination for Christmas. Even if you just set up a small spot in your kitchen, it’s sure to set a festive backdrop! Small tinsel trees in pink and green are inexpensive and really grounds the color scheme.

How cute is this outfit. Jeans, a tunic and a touch of leopard can make hosting comfortable. You can also have your girlfriend wear their favorite shades of pink. Taking “photo booth” photos using props would be a fun way to keep the memories!

Source: polyvore.com via A Place for Us Blog on Pinterest

Even more PINK! These sparkle cupcakes I made used colored sugars,dark brown cupcake liners and my favorite Duncan Hines cake mix, Devils Food. You can learn this simple technique here!

Don’t forget to add a cute hot chocolate bar! I love this one with the chalkboard

Finally, decide on what you and your friends want to do! Maybe just a night of chit chatting about LIFE,crafting up some homemade gifts, or watching Christmas movies while exchanging small gifts like different colored socks. Getting my girls together each season is a must for me. I hope you can find some inspiration to do the same!

Remember to check out Duncan Hines' website www.duncanhines.com to find some great recipes for your holiday get-together! I was selected for this sponsorship by the Clever Girls Collective.

New Look for New York with Makeup.com

noreply@blogger.com (Destiny) — Thu, 08 Dec 2011 23:30:00 +0000

Thanks to L'Oreal for sponsoring my post about my favorite beauty looks, tips and tricks! Check out Makeup.com for beauty advice from the experts.

Source: kvelv.tumblr.com via Natalie on Pinterest

I'm headed out to New York next week to be on the Nate Show! If your new to the story then you can read about it here:0) I’m really excited and super nervous!

So to get my mind off the nervous part I decided to try something new. There is no denying that I’m a girly girl. I played sports my entire life, but that was really the extent of my boyish side. Even when I was on the volleyball court I made sure I had a nice tight ponytail with a sweet ribbon tied in my hair. So when I got conformation that I would be heading to to NewYork my first thoughts were…new clothes,cute shoes,blondish hair and pretty makeup:0)

One of the best things I do to my skin on a weekly basis is exfoliate. My face, my legs and my arms are the places I need it the most because they are exposed most of the time. I love how it leaves my skin so silky! I prefer a courser exfoliate like ONE from Target. But if you have sensitive skin then something made with finer sugars or salts might work better.

While I was scrubbing my skin last week I really noticed my eyebrows. Your not gonna believe it but I’ve never had my eyebrows professionally done. I think I was just to afraid of having hot wax on my face. BUT I knew I needed them done BADLY:0) For 28 years they have been a wavy overgrown mess maintained by a small razor,clear gel and a wet and wild eyebrow pencil:0) I finally decided that THIS occasion was the perfect time to try something new so I did, and I LOVED it.

Hot mess right…lol.

First of all it was cheap. 10.00 for wax, plucking and clipping. Second, it didn’t hurt at all! I guess after having three kids my pain tolerance is a tad bit different. But I hear the new thing is threading, so I'm like a decade behind..lol

I'm not sure how hair and makeup will go when I get to the studio but I do know I would love to rock some shimmery eye shadow like this one from Maybelline and and a nude lip gloss from L’Oreal. I love me some neutrals.

I love this palette because it tells you where to put it…makeup for dummies

So here it is all together. New hair, arched brow and some shimmer.

So I learned that I should never wait 28 years to try anything! Ha. So.Much.Better.Yes.

You can take a sneak peak into my bag NYC bag tomorrow:0)

I was selected for this sponsorship by the Clever Girls Collective. Click here to learn more about Makeup.com or become a Facebook fan by clicking here.

My Style Monday {Christmas Style}

noreply@blogger.com (Destiny) — Tue, 06 Dec 2011 19:57:00 +0000

Today I’m sharing my Christmas style! One of the best things about Christmas is how many different ways there are to “deck the halls” Traditional Green and Red from bright pinks and blues. Christmas décor has defiantly made a complete shift in the last decade. Families are now creating décor that complements their already lovely interiors. In a perfect world my home would reflect all of these JOLLY elements!

Source: holiday.easternaccents.com via A Place for Us Blog on Pinterest

Source: missmustardseed.blogspot.com via A Place for Us Blog on Pinterest

Source: countryliving.com via A Place for Us Blog on Pinterest

Source: cottageinstincts.blogspot.com via A Place for Us Blog on Pinterest

Source: houseandhome.com via Kara on Pinterest

Source: thestir.cafemom.com via Nicole on Pinterest

Source: mostlovelythings.blogspot.com via Kendra on Pinterest

Source: theenchantedhome.blogspot.com via Kendra on Pinterest

Source: mensvita.blogspot.com via Jessica on Pinterest

Source: international.stockfood.com via Lori on Pinterest

Source: williams-sonoma.com via Crystal on Pinterest

Source: gardeners.com via Monica on Pinterest

Source: google.com via Monica on Pinterest

This year I’m LOVING a touch of black and white! I’m really excited to show you how I used it in my own home this year! What about you? What’s your Christmas style?

Some DownEastHome Love

noreply@blogger.com (Destiny) — Fri, 02 Dec 2011 15:30:00 +0000

I'm so excited to officially introduce to you my newest sponsor of A Place for Us Blog, Down East Home. You’ve probably heard me rave and rant about them just a few times;0) Not only do they sell the cutest clothes but they have some fabulous home items online and in store as well!

If your decorating your house for Christmas this year, then you don’t want to miss out on these SEQUINS pillows:0) I have a serious crush on them and you know how I feel about pillows anyway:0)

I ordered two of them for my living/dining room space this year. But I think I need ONE more:0) It adds the perfect shot of sparkle to my decor and all my girlfriend are in love with them!!! You can get them HERE!

OH MAN, I keep staring at it AND petting it…….”helllllllooooo pretty pillow.” lol!

For some added shots of silver I draped this beaded garland over our Fireless Fireplace mantel!! At only 7.99 each I think it ties in with the silver bling pillows beautifully!

So if you looking for some great Christmas décor at a great price , head on over to DownEastBasics Home section online for some HOT deals. Right now you can get $20.00 off your order of 100.00 or more!:0)

*THIS IS A SPONSORED POST and A PLACE FOR US BLOG MAY HAVE RECEIVED PAYMENT, TRADE AND/OR PRODUCTS IN EXCHANGE FOR PROMOTING.

A Sneak Peak of Christmas and why I’m a Master Designer

noreply@blogger.com (Destiny) — Thu, 01 Dec 2011 15:37:00 +0000

Christmas is happening in our house right now! With all the craziness of the Nate Show and a gazillion projects going on right now. My goal is to finish it all before Christmas day..lol!!

We didn’t decorate our family room last year. BUT because of some great sales a few days after Christmas I snagged some beautiful decorations in our family room colors…green and blue:0) I also decided to put a Christmas tree in here:0)

In our front room living/dining room I'm using metallic with black and white accents!

Can’t wait to show you the finished product:0)

Now about that Master Designer stuff. What is it? Well it’s the best thing ever. It completely describes me and why I create. I’m so excited to be apart of it. A few weeks ago I stumbled upon a blog Jones Design Company. She's the creator of these prints from Dayspring. Have you guys heard of her? Well on the side of her blog she has a button that caught my eye…

So I clicked on the link and it lead me to this wonderful blog FieldStone Hill written by Darlene.

God put this verse on her heart…

“I am a Master Designer.

I love Beauty;
I see potential and I want to fill it with beauty.
I aim to create something beautiful that is worthy of joy.
Design is a high calling, one that can improve the lives of others, be a means to foster relationships, and add much joy to my family.

I appreciate fine and lovely things, but they are not my treasures.
I know what is truly important, and
I do not aim to “store up my treasures here on earth.”*

I live to bring glory to God, the Ultimate Master Designer.
He created Beauty.
He created all beautiful things.
And, He created my passion for design, and set that joy in my heart.

Everything that I create,
and have created,
is because I myself was created by a Master.

I am a Master Designer.”

*{verse reference, Matthew 6:19}

and I couldn’t agree more:0) If you think this describes you as well, please visit her page to find out how you can become a master designer as well:0) http://www.fieldstonehilldesign.com/master-designer

One Afternoon, Two Stylist and Three Mantels

noreply@blogger.com (Destiny) — Wed, 30 Nov 2011 19:41:00 +0000

Jingle Bells Jingle Bells….Dashing threw the snow…Silent Night, Holy Night…All I want for Christmas is youuuuu baby!! Oh YES! It’s Christmas time you guys! The most wonderful time of the year! Celebrating everything good, the birth of Jesus, family and friends, and of course trimming your house with Christmas cheer!

My good friend Heather from the Restyle Group and I got together last weekend before all of the Thanksgiving madness and spent a afternoon doing what we do best…decorating:0) I love walking into a well decorated home and Heathers is just that, it’s BEAUTIFUL!!! We started with her big chunky:0) mantel with muted browns, a creamy yellow back drop and raised hearth. Check out these three fun mantels that we created using our most loved items from our favorite stores, Homegoods, Target, Pottery Barn and much more!

We used tons of texture…….

and a few metallic:0) Love those owls? Heather picked them up from Homegoods!

Love that natural nest….pretty!!

If you’re a fan of green and red then you'll love this next one. It features some gorgeous reindeer pillows from MonMell Designs and Holiday Hugs and Joy signs from Sassy Talk vinyl design!!

If burlap and bling is your thing then this will be your pick. We used a fun chalkboard above the mantel with a full burlap wreath. We paired it up with some mercury glass candle sticks,wood and sliver and white accents!

You can pick up the north pole pillow from MonMell Designs! Other items you can get from your local Target and Pottery Barn!

Which one is your favorite!? I’m crushing on the Rustic Winter Charm:0)

You can connect with all of these ladies on Facebook!

Restyle Group-specializing in Magical Makeovers and Restyles

MonMell Designs- Home decor to feather your nest! Unique Burlap Pillows

Sassy Talk- beautiful vinyl!

Throw a Cookie Exchange Party

noreply@blogger.com (Destiny) — Wed, 23 Nov 2011 05:04:00 +0000

GIVEAWAY CLOSED

The holidays have officially started and I'm super excited to be giving away this super fun kit to you!

Have you heard of a cookie exchange party? Yes? Great (aren't they so fun and yummy!) No? Well then, let me explain to you….

What you do is ask each guest to bring either a dozen or half dozen cookies for each attendee, plus a dozen for the party. So if you have 10 guests that’s 10 dozen cookies….9 for your guests and 1 for everyone to munch on.

With this kit one will be able to:
* Invite up to 12 friends to a Cookie Exchange Party during the Holiday Season.
* As the Party Host, write ones own recipe to give to each of the other guests.
* Display ID Recipe Cards describing the cookies and name of who baked them in front of each plate of cookies.
* Package the Cookies in the Cellophane Bags, along with a Gift Tag and Ribbon secure them.
* Further decorate the bags with the stickers, or use them to give out to guests and to the cookie contest winners (1st, 2nd, 3rd, and 4th place cookies).

So if you looking to host your own cookie exchange this year then here is what you gotta do:0)

Leave a comment on this blog telling me your favorite cookie!
Like Down East Home on Facebook

Easy right?

And you know what the best part is, you can totally get some yourself. Now when I tell you this price don’t freak out, it’s not wrong, I know how to type…lol!! These cute kits are only 4.99 or….wait for it..THREE for 9.99! What? I know right? I've seen these in a certain fancy spancy store so I know how much they go for folks!!! How fun would it be to give some of these away at your own cookie exchange and spread the cookie love!

ohhhh…Don’t forget to enter the DOWN EAST HOME $500 gift card for home decor items to spruce up your house this holiday season!

Good Luck!!!

Giveaway ends Nov. 29th

My Style Monday {Pinterest Thanksgiving Menu}

noreply@blogger.com (Destiny) — Tue, 22 Nov 2011 05:48:00 +0000

Thanksgiving is only a few days away! So for this My Style Monday I thought I would share with you, some of the things that will be on our Thanksgiving table this year. I’m so excited to be hosting again this year! I always joke with my friends and tell them I’m having my Stay at Home MOM finals:0) Also included in my round up is the FAMOUS Best Punch Ever. In Life!

Turkey with Herb Butter

Whipped Mashed Potatoes

Source: ezrapoundcake.com via Ashley on Pinterest

Candy Yams

Source: kimmccrary.blogspot.com via Lynette on Pinterest

Creamy and Cheesy Mac and Cheese

Source: cooklikeachampionblog.com via Celeste on Pinterest

Buttered Corn

Source: foodportfolio.com via Craig on Pinterest

Southern Style Stuffing

Source: reesemac.onsugar.com via Reese on Pinterest

Dinner Rolls

Source: food.com via Taneile on Pinterest

Deviled Eggs

Source: coastalliving.com via Pattie on Pinterest

Cranberry Sauce

Source: blog.mrslilien.com via Sarah on Pinterest

Dutch Apple Pie

Source: joelens.blogspot.com via Sarah on Pinterest

Red Velvet Cake

Source: urbancomfort.typepad.com via Kim on Pinterest

Cake Pops

Source: decoratethis.blogspot.com via Nicole on Pinterest

Cheesecake

Source: evalawrie.wordpress.com via Lisa on Pinterest

Best Punch Ever……

Ingredients

3 (3 ounce) packages fruit flavored gelatin mix
4 cups white sugar
13 cups boiling water
2 (46 fluid ounce) cans pineapple juice
1 (16 ounce) bottle lemon juice concentrate
2 (2 liter) bottles ginger ale, chilled

Directions

In a large bowl, combine gelatin and sugar. Stir in boiling water until mixture is dissolved. Stir in pineapple juice and lemon juice concentrate. Divide into 2 containers( I use the LARGE Ziploc bags), and freeze until solid.
To serve, place gelatin mixture in punch bowl, and chop into pieces. Pour in ginger ale.

I hope you guys have a wonderful Thanksgiving!!! Remember to "Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good; his love endures forever." (NIV) Psalm 107:1 What are your favorite Thanksgiving foods!?

Nate Berkus, New York and ME!!

noreply@blogger.com (Destiny) — Mon, 14 Nov 2011 19:54:00 +0000

AHHHH!!! I know! What? Yes!!! It’s true! Destiny(me) from A Place for Us Blog(me again) will be going to New York City to be on THE Nate Berkus Show!!

I've been wanting to tell you for a couple of weeks but I wasn’t sure of all the details so I just kept my mouth shut! But its now official so I can scream out to the world! I’m so shocked and excited and THANKFUL for the amazing opportunity! Never in a million years did I think this would fall in my lap!

So How Did it Happen?

Well it all happened on a Thursday night..lol:0) I was on my way to bed and every night before I go to sleep I check my email…refresh and check it again:0) To my surprise I saw a little teaser title that said HI My name is Alex and I work on the Nate Berkus…… I was getting media request for my flowers all week so I just thought it was another one of those! It wasn't until I read the entire thing that I understood that they wanted ME on the show!! What? How did you find me! What do you wanna see!? My house is like 13% done!! lol!! I woke my husband up and started jumping up and down on the bed with my laptop and I was like…”Baby!! You gotta read this and tell me what it says!!” lol!!!

SO the next morning I called them and they asked me a ton of questions…mostly about my life here in AZ and my blog:0) For the next couple of weeks I went back and forth with them, sending photos, links and phone calls. Last Thursday I got the word that they would be flying me out DEC 13th to NEW YORK to film a segment with Nate! I will also be doing a HOUSE PROUD segment!

Just a few months ago I did a guest post on my friend Nicole's Blog…Modern Reject called “ Just Your Average Joe.” So I can’t even tell you how much I feel like God has his hands all over this! With all of the THOUSANDS of blogs on the internet and the mega talent behind them, for them to find mine is beyond me! I know I don’t have the MOST followers(but certainly the best!) and I haven't even made my blog a full time job. But from the bottom of my heart, I love to blog, I love to create, I love to SHARE and this is what this blog has always been about! You certainly can get discourage when you start to compare. But I think this opportunity is God saying to me and really to us ALL “I don’t need you to be the BEST, I need you to be available and willing. Even with all your fears and self doubt, TRUST me and I will do more than you could ASK or DREAM of!” Today I'm so thankful!! I've had a week full of emotions, good and bad. But I trust that God knows what he's doing and I’m ready to let go of the wheel!

If I get anymore updates I will let you know! Thanks everyone for your support!! I love you ALL!! xoxo

Elmer’s Craft & Tell Party + Giveaway

noreply@blogger.com (Destiny) — Tue, 08 Nov 2011 04:46:00 +0000

A few months ago I got an email from Elmer's asking me if I would like to host a craft party sponsored by them! They would send me party supplies for 10 of my guests and extras for prizes! Yep, I sure do, sign me up!:0)

I thought it would be great if a few of my girlfriends and I got together and crafted some Thanksgiving table décor and crafts! When my box full of goodies arrived I was SHOCKED!! Tons and crafty things for everyone! Thank you Elmer’s for being so generous and FUN:0)

Each girl was given a bag full of supplies to get them started and put them in a crafty mood!:0)

X-ACTO Retractable Knife
· 8” X-ACTO Designer Series Scissors
· X-ACTO Self-Healing Mat
· X-ACTO Decorative Edge Scissors
· Elmer’s CraftBond Extra Strength Glue Stick
· Elmer’s CraftBond Tape Runner
· Elmer’s CraftBond Glue Dots pack
· Elmer’s Mini Bi-Fold Foam Board

And in the center of our table was a caddy full of crafty tools!!!

Our first craft of the night was, you guessed it…Brown Paper Flowers. I took a few minutes explaining how to make them and then they got BUSY!!! They were so good at them:0)

Another craft we made was a combo craft. Felt Lollipop Turkeys in a Coop! I got the Lollipop Turkey instructions from Parents.com and for the turkey coop I used the bottoms of the brown paper bags! Remember I told you to save them? :0)

Tutorial coming soon! I think these would be SO cute on the kids table BUT really fun on the main table too! The houndstooth duck tap coordinates perfectly with my houndstooth pillow!!

It was so fun getting together and LAUGHING, listening to some Chris August, Mercy Me and chatting about scandalous reality TV shows,,,lol!!! We also discussed things like husbands and laundry…probably the funniest conversation ever!! Especially when Reggie made an appearance to put his two cents in! Girl time is the best time:0))

So here is the fun part….

Giveaway

Elmer’s wants to also send TWO blog readers a pack of goodies to have a mini Craft & Tell party, too! Leave a comment on this blog entry to enter. Must be a US resident to win (for shipping purposes). One comment per person please. Open to all A Place for Us Readers!!

3 X-ACTO Retract-a-Blade knives
3 CraftBond Extra Strength Glue Sticks
3 CraftBond Tape Runners
3 Mini Bi-fold 9×12 Foam Board packs
1 Painters Markers pack
1 X-ACTO Decorative Edge Scissors pack
1 Circle Cutter
1 X-ACTO Self-Healing Mat
1 Glue Dots pack
2 Photo Corners packs (various colors)
1 Gel Pens pack
1 Tacky Glue bottle

Winner will be announced Mon. November,14th on my FACEBOOK page ! Good Luck!!

My Style Monday (Pillows)

noreply@blogger.com (Destiny) — Mon, 07 Nov 2011 20:53:00 +0000

I crave change. So it’s no surprise that I LOVE pillows. Down filled, karate chopped, fluffy pillows!! If you’re a seasonal decorator like me, then you know pillows are the easiest way to add a different feel and look to any room. It seems like every time I make a trip to Homegoods, one or two of them end up in my cart:0) Ralph Lauren pillows are my all time favorite. Not sure why, but they come with a nice down fill and the color and texture choices are right up my alley. Here are some of the pillows around mi casa…..

If I’m not making my own pillows or filling up my cart with them at Homegoods I order them from Etsy!

Here are TWO of my favorite pillow shops!

Pop O Color has tons of great color options for your home in the hottest fabrics! I love mixing floral and geometrics in the same color family and she does all the work for you! Go give her a Facebook Hug:0)

Affordable and cute, Lacey Placey makes one sided pillow covers in FUN patterns and colors for your home. Starting at 14.50!! Perfect Christmas gift for your girlfriends!!!

I love these Christmas ones she has. The green and red chevrons are only 14.50 each and the Joy monogrammed can be made custom with up to 5 letters for only 24.00!!!!

Make sure you visit her on Facebook for even more amazing deals, if that’s even possible and tell her HI!

Do you LOVE pillows just as much as I do? Do you like to mix and match or do you like your pillows symmetrical in color and size?

Fireless Fireplace Complete

noreply@blogger.com (Destiny) — Fri, 04 Nov 2011 15:00:00 +0000

It’s finally done! I LOVE how it turned out!! This is not really a tutorial but I will quickly share with you how I put it all together and what materials I used to get the look!

So here is the wall before. My idea all started with a vision and painters tape..lol:0)

and now!

LOVEEEEEE:0) Just goes to show you can use simple materials to create something absolutely wonderful for your home! I’ve always wanted a mantel and a fireplace and with a little elbow grease I managed to get one up and it looks great in our space!

So here is the basics of what I did.

For the fireplace surround (white planks) I used the following…

1x2’s cut to size
2 in nails
5.5 inch primed MDF planks cut to size
white paint
wood filler
sander

First we made a frame for the wide 5.5 in planks. I would give you the measurements but it’s very specific for our space. I really just eyeballed how wide I wanted everything to be.

Then I nailed all the planks to the frame using 2 inch nails and a nail gun. I also used the 1x2 for the sided of the fireplace.

After that I did a lot of sanding and filling holes, a little facial I call it:0). I'm SO happy the planks were already primed, otherwise I would have been at this forever!

After that I painted the planks a nice crisp white.

The mantel was just as easy. This time instead of primed wood I used an unfinished wood.

For this mantel I used…

(2) 5.5 planks
(1) 1x2 cut to size
finishing nails
wood filler
stain
staining rags
sander

First I took the two 5.5 in planks and made a shelf. One plank for the top and one for the bottom. Then I used some scrap pieces of wood and nailed them to the sides to make a L-shaped box.

On top I used 1x2 ‘s to create some depth. Then I filled the holes and sanded it down a bit.

Next I used my favorite stain, Miniwax in this yummy chocolate color…walnut! I stained it about 4-6 times to get the color a little richer and darker. In between drying I nicked a scraped the wood to give it a rustic look.

After my pretty mantel was all dry, I hung a 2x4 onto the fireplace to support the mantel.

Here it is all hung!!

It took me forever to decide what to put in the opening. That’s why I've been staling for so long:0))) But I think I found a great solution. I went to my local Lowe's and had a piece of their faux brick (I see it all the time and I’ve always wanted to use it!!) cut to size and just pushed it right in there! They best thing about it is that it has a nice tight fit but can be changed into something different whenever I feel like it!! I figured for summer I can lighten it up with beadboard or a painted gray brick:) Is that not such a stylist/stager move!..lol But it’s totally me!

I think a few wood logs, and a screen will be just right! As soon as I find some pieces I will share. OH! I can’t wait to get it all dressed up for Christmas! “Deck the halls….” lol!

Hope you love it as much as I do!!

That’s all.

New Ballard Rug and Slipcovers

noreply@blogger.com (Destiny) — Wed, 26 Oct 2011 23:28:00 +0000

I took a two week hiatus from my little ole blog cause I had my wisdom tooth yanked from my mouth:0) Yep, just one.I’m such a baby when it comes to pain!

I know your all anxiously awaiting the fireplace. I won’t tell you soon, because I’ve been saying that for about three weeks now and I think your catching on to my “delay” message strategy , so I’ll just say…. I’m workin on it:0)

Anyway, about that rug….

I purchased a new rug for under my breakfast nook! I had one that my mom got from Robb and Stucky a few years ago thinking it was an indoor/outdoor one but when I went to go and hose it down, I found out it wasn’t. Water spots where everywhere…eek!!. I did manage to clean it thanks to some tips from Katie. So I’ve been on the hunt for a new one ever since and I finally found one at good ole Ballard.

I purchased their very affordable paisley, indoor/outdoor bordered rug in green about a month ago. I got the largest size available which is 7x10 for under 100.00:0) shipping and all!

I like rugs under my table because when my kiddos make a mess I can just vacuum it up. I tried to live with out a rug and it was just to much trying to keep my dark wood floors spotless.

Look familiar it’s the sister of my front porch rug:0)

I love Ballard rugs, can you tell?

Now I need some chair covers. I originally was going to sew some myself but my kids are so harsh on our furniture so my dreamy plan of white covered parson chairs has been deleted from my mind. :0)

I did however find these to be great options….

These pretty parson chair slipcovers are so flirty! I think I will get them eventually when they go on SALE. Right now they are 59.00 each and I need four. BUT, I think the greens might clash , so I’m thinking one of them will work great in my new office:0) yippee!!

This slipcover with ties come in spa blue and green. Love the side details. I’m a sucker for things wrapped in a pretty little bow. But I’m having a hard time seeing Reggie sitting down in these:0) Maybe I should but these in my office chair file options as well:0)

I’m leaning toward these ones from Ballard,

I don’t really like the long skirt, but I think I can do some minor alterations to make it work. It’s a chocolate check pattern that will work great with the color scheme of the entire family room. Right now they are on sale for 29.00 each. With a coupon I think it will be a great price!! FOUR of them for under 100.00!

I’ll let you know what I decide! In the mean while I’m headed back to the fireplace. I don’t know WHY I get so unmotivated towards the end of a project…lol. I need to get myself an extra large sweet tea from Chick-fila and get my booty in gear!!!!! Happy Wednesday!

My Style Monday {Tiny Prints Holiday Cards}

noreply@blogger.com (Destiny) — Mon, 24 Oct 2011 20:32:00 +0000

I know I’m not the only one who's getting SUPER excited about the up coming holiday season, right? I think not! I try my hardest to be a planner and well, plan things. BUT sometimes my plans just don’t happen, especially around the holidays. So this year I went hunting for Christmas Cards super early, like SEPTEMBER early. Tiny Prints is one of my favorite places to go to for my stationary needs. Along with super cute business cards and gorgeous new planners, they also have stylish Christmas cards!

Tiny Prints is so ready for Christmas and so am I! Check out some of my favorites card styles, WITH discount codes too!

Tri-Folds

These tri-folds have been really popular the last few years, and I know why! Just look at them!

Comeback TUESDAY ONLY to receive 25% off all Trifold Cards

USE CODE: 1025DOD

Folded Cards with personality…..

Loving the polka dots!

Ornament Cards

Something special for your card receivers to hang on their tree!

Love these? Comeback Thursday to receive 25% off these ornament cards!

Use Code: 1027DOD

Rounded Corners…

Little details can make the biggest difference!

Comeback on Friday to receive a free upgrade for rounded corners…no code needed:0)

Now time to schedule that family picture. Have you thought about Christmas Cards yet? Which one is your favorite style?

*Tiny Prints is an affiliate of A Place for Us Blog and this is a sponsored post. A Place for Us may have received my have received payment trade and/or products in exchange for promoting.