Crazy Wonderful

Before and After Party at Thrifty Decor Chick

Show Me What Ya Got at Not Just a Housewife
Tuesday Confessional at Confessions of a Stay at Home Mommy
Tuesday To Do at The Blackberry Vine
Will Craft For... at Tales of a Trophy Wife
Show and Share at Southern Lovely
Tuesday Talent Show at Chef in Training
Tuesday Link Party at Todays Creative Blog

Passionately Artistic
What's Up Wednesdays at Sew Woodsy
Wow Us Wednesdays at Savvy Southern Style
Wow Me Wednesday at Ginger Snaps
Primp Your Stuff at {Primp}
Whatever Goes Wednesdays at Someday Crafts
Look What I Made! at Creations by Kara
What We Wore and Made at Rae Gun Ramblings

Everything but the Kitchen Sink at A Little Knick Knack

Delightfully Inspiring Thursday at Delightful Order

Making it with Allie at What Allie's Making Now
Suzy's House Party at Saved by Suzy
Haute Stuff Thursday at Frugalicious Me

Feathered Nest Friday at French Country Cottage
Furniture Feature Friday at Miss Mustard Seed

Delicately Constructed Fridays at Delicate Construction
Inspiration Friday at At the Picket Fence
VIP Party at Designer Garden
Feature Friday at Five Days... 5 Ways
365 Link Party at Two Thirty-five Designs

Weekend Link Up at Bacon Time with the Hungry Hypo
The Saturday Seven at Positively Splendid

Creative Bloggers' Party and Hop at Homemaker on a Dime

Sunday Showcase Party at Under the Table and Dreaming

RAMSIGN winner!

2012-02-27T07:53:00.000-06:00

Thank you everyone who entered in the RAMSIGN giveaway!

The winner of the RAMSIGN house number sign (1-5 digits) of their choice is...

Maggie of Midwestern {Sewing} Girl!!!

Who said: "Ooooh, I love the Engelhardt white on black...especially the circular ones...soooo pretty! Thanks so much for the chance to win, Shelley!"

Congratulations Maggie!

Be sure to check your inbox for an email for me :)

ch-ch-ch-ch-changes

2012-02-25T19:29:00.000-06:00

So, there are only a few days left (March 1st) before Google yanks Google Friend Connect from non-blogger hosted blogs.

I did a post on it here, but have since found a couple of new tools I'm liking better.

Addition No. 1 - Linky Followers

Everyone seems to like this new blog following tool, so I'm going to give the people what they want.

Pros: Similar look and feel to our beloved GFC, can categorize the blogs you follow, can still use it to follow blogs without Linky, and it's not attached to Google, Facebook, etc.

Cons: Bloggers must manually go into Linky and update their blog posts (I often forget) so you may not be getting updated content, and I'm currently finding it a little difficult to use but I understand it is brand spanking new and it takes time to work out kinks.

Addition No. 2 - Bloglovin'

I'm a little late to this dance, but so far I'm lovin' it.

Pros: Blogs can be categorized, you can use it to follow any blog, the dashboard is clean and super simple to use and view your favorite blogs, it automatically updates when a blogger posts new content so you don't miss out on anything, it's not connected to Google, Facebook, etc., and you can even set up your account to send you a daily email of the blogs you follow.

Cons: You have to go to another site to view the blogs you follow. But, remember you can have it emailed to you!

Here's What I'm Thinking

There are several non-blogger blogs I adore and follow through GCF. I DO NOT want to lose track of them after March 1st!

So, I decided to add ALL the blogs I follow, even Blogger hosted because I'm totally living in fear that Google will take it away from us the in future too, to Bloglovin' (Linky Followers is totally another great option). If miracle of miracles happens and the non-blogger blogs I follow still show up on my Google dashboard after March 1st, awesome. If not, I've got them all set up somewhere else and am ready to roll without missing a beat.

I had added Networked Blogs a while back to my sidebar, but due to a lack of interest, I'm planning on taking it down in a week. I just wanted to make sure my two Networked Blog followers Maury and Katey (hey guys!) know about it first.

So now you've got Linky Followers and Bloglovin' as additional following options found under Friends on the right sidebar.

Of course you can still follow through a feed or sign up for an email subscription. Those options can be found at the top right hand corner of my sidebar.

Hows about them apples for options ;)

Don't forget, the last day to enter in for a chance to win the RAMSIGN giveaway is tomorrow, February 26th!

i'm it

2012-02-24T06:00:00.007-06:00

I've been tagged in a game by Suzy from Saved by Suzy, and thought it would be fun to join in.

Eleven is the magic number here. Answer eleven questions, tag eleven other bloggers, and come up with eleven different questions to ask them.

And Away We Go:

1) If you could visit one place in the world, where would it be? Scotland. Doesn't it just look insanely gorgeous?!

{via}

2) What is your dream job? Right now I couldn't imagine not being at home with Izzy - it's my "dream job". Now, when we finish having children (only see one more in our future) I would love to have my own business with a nice little store front. Of course since it's a dream job, it would run smoothly with minimal effort and make sick money ;)

{via}

3) What is your favorite book? Kathryn, cover your eyes (no, that's not a book title). It's not that I don't enjoy reading, I just haven't made time for reading in such a long time. I can't even come up with a favorite :(

4) Name an item on your bucket list. To see the aurora borealis.

5) Do you speak any other languages? Negative

{via}

6) If you could live anywhere, where would it be? Hmmm... I actually loved the mountains of North Carolina. I could envision a big mountain home like this

7) If you could change anything about your current home, what would it be? The shower in our master bath. It's the armpit of our house. I hate it so much I even neglect cleaning it. Yeah... that makes a lot of sense doesn't it.

8) What is something you've learned from blogging? To have more fun and try new things when it comes to decorating our home. You guys are talented! Anymore my inspiration comes from other bloggers. You inspire me to try things I normally wouldn't have done.

9) If you could take any type of class, what would it be about? During a play date the other day, a friend of mine mentioned taking a graphic design class, and I thought it sounded like so much fun. I've been thinking about it ever since.

10) If you could have dinner with one person, who would it be? My grandmother. I miss her so much, and there isn't a day where I don't think about her in one way or another.

11) If you could change anything about yourself, what would it be? Being a perfectionist. I make myself certifiably ca-razy at times.

11 Bloggers I'm Tagging:

No pressure guys, play along if you'd like :)

Julia at Pawley's Island Posh
Maggie at Midwestern Sewing Girl
Amy at Green Eggs and Hamm
Cassie at Hi Sugarplum!
Aubrey at All Things Bright and Beautiful
Andrea at Oak Ridge Revival
Kristy at Hyphen Interiors
Lindsay at Lee La La
Lisa at A Vintage Vine
Jacqueline at Simple Home Life
Aimee at It's Overflowing

My 11 Questions:

1) If you could go back in time and change one thing what would it be?
2) What is your favorite trend in decorating?
3) What is your reoccurring dream?
4) If you could take any type of class what would it be?
5) Do you have a secret talent?
6) What celebrity do you think you'd hit it off with?
7) Calories don't count, what are you going to devour?
8) If you could do one thing without any repercussions, what would it be?
9) What's a TV show you're embarrassed to admit you watch?
10) What song could you listen to over and over?
11) What have you said to get out of a speeding ticket?

Be sure to check out these lovely gals I've tagged, you'll be glad you did ;)

And, don't forget to enter yourself into the RAMSIGN giveaway!

last week for baby nest discount!

2012-02-22T08:00:00.002-06:00

Just wanted to remind everyone there's just one week left to get 10% off your entire Baby Nest purchase!

If you have friends expecting, be sure to let them know as well :)

all is good in the world

2012-02-22T06:00:00.002-06:00

It's up.

And, I'm so happy and relieved it works!

Thank you guys for talking me off the ledge last week :)

I'm hoping to get crack-a-lackin in here soon with adding the picture frame molding under the chair railling.

I'll keep you updated!

RAMSIGN giveaway

2012-02-20T06:00:00.001-06:00

Guess what you could win!!!

Ramsign is offering one lucky reader one of their gorgeous house number signs (1-5 digits) of ANY size and color.

International readers, you can get in on this too!

This is a $99 value peps!!!

These enamel signs are GORGEOUS, and are produced by hand in Denmark.

You can read more about the cool history behind them and the production process here.

And, check out some of the other beauties available through Ramsign.

To Enter:

Head over to Ramsign and come back here naming your favorite enamel sign in a comment. (Note - If you're email address is not attached to your profile be sure to include it in your comment)
Extra Entry: Become a follower of Crazy Wonderful through Google Friend Connect or Linky (both found on sidebar) and let me know in a comment.
Extra Entry: Like Ramsign on Facebook and let me know in a comment.
Extra Entry: Post a link of the giveaway on your blog or Facebook and let me know in a comment.

Contest closes Sunday, February 26th at 11:59pm CST.

One random winner will be selected Monday, February 27th!

Good luck!

interview with a 3 year old

2012-02-17T06:00:00.001-06:00

We're celebrating Izzy's 3rd birthday on Saturday.

She is SO excited, and tells everyone she sees (even complete strangers walking by in the grocery store) that she is 3 and is going to have a party.

While prepping for this little one's party I came across a fun idea on Pinterest. Each year on your child's birthday you interview them with the same 20 questions. It will be fun to see how the answers change over the years.

Favorite color? Pink
Favorite toy? Giraffe
Favorite fruit? Cherries
Favorite TV show? Austin & Alley
Favorite breakfast? Pancakes & granola
Favorite lunch? Mac & Cheese
Favorite outfit? Dresses
Favorite game? Chase Me (she likes having us chase her around the house and hide)
Favorite snack? Teddy Grahams
Favorite animal? Giraffes
Favorite song? Jesus Loves Me
Favorite book? Josie and the Lucky Number 7
Favorite cereal? Mom cereal (Special K Fruit & Yogurt)
Favorite thing to do outside? Dig
Favorite drink? Daddy's tea (she likes to steal sips of her Daddy's tea when we eat out)
Favorite holiday? Christmas
Favorite thing to take to bed? Giraffe
Who is your best friend? Chloe, Piper & Coralie
What do you want to eat for your birthday dinner? Cake
What do you want to be when you grow up? Tinkerbell

I'm praying I can hold on to some shred of my diet while around all the cake this weekend.

Should be a rip roarin' good time :)

just having a little meltdown

2012-02-15T06:00:00.000-06:00

In the words of my daughter... I'm just having a little meltdown.

I got the chandelier today.

It's big.

As in causing me to freak out big.

Ugh.

I'm praying that once I get it up and take the china cabinet off the buffet it will work.

I really need you to to lie and tell me everything is going to be ok.

guess what's coming!!!

2012-02-13T06:00:00.001-06:00

Well, I've finally bit the bullet and ordered this bad boy!

{via}

Everyone scream with me! Eeeeee!!!!

I am SO excited to get it up and start switching things up in the dining room.

I know, I know...

I haven't even technically finished Izzy's room.

But, I'm just so excited about this chandelier!!!

fake looks great

2012-02-09T06:00:00.000-06:00

When I gave you guys a little peek into Izzy's new big girl room, I included a picture of her turquoise nightstand.

I love this little piece!

Here's what it looked like before

I actually really liked it in its before state, so I had to keep reminding myself, "you wanted a turquoise table for her room, so just get over it and paint the darn thing".

I loved all the texture it had and wanted it to still have that look when it was painted so I opted for the Chalk Paint route. But, 1) I didn't want to shell out a boat load for the real deal when I only needed a tiny bit in a color I'd most likely never use again, and 2) It wasn't even available in the color I wanted.

So, I DIY'd it.

Oh yes I did.

And, saved mega bucks.

Cost me less than $8 (the real deal is $40/quart) and you can make your DIY version any color you want using this tutorial I found on the Liz Marie Blog.

Mix 1 cup flat paint with 1 tbsp unsanded grout, and you have chalk paint!

A little tip: Since I wasn't covering a huge piece I bought a sample pot of flat paint from Home Depot for $2. It measured exactly a cup. Bingo!!!

It goes on a little gritty at first ...

But it does smooth out as you're painting it on.

Everything else about it was so similar to the real Chalk Paint: same coverage, sands the same way, and even takes wax the same. I've used the real Chalk Paint on a few other pieces in our house, and couldn't tell a difference.

All of that to say I recommend giving the DIY version a shot.

What do you guys think. Is it just easier to buy the real stuff or would you try to make your own?

inside my bag - hyphen interiors

2012-02-06T06:00:00.005-06:00

New month, new...

Today I excited to have Kristy from Hyphen Interiors guest posting!

I'm sure most of you have seen her amazing painted chair floating around blogland. So stinking cool, I never would have thought to paint a chair!

When you check out her blog be sure to also check out her home tour. Everything is so fun and bright, I wouldn't be able to walk into a room without smiling. And lucky us (totally selfish on my part), she has recently relocated and I CAN'T WAIT to see what she does with her next home. No doubt it will be gorgeous.

So, let's see what's inside her bag.

Hey y'all, I'm Kristy from Hyphen Interiors.

What’s in my bag?! Here it is in all its glory hanging on its usual hook in the hall. The hooks used to be in my laundry room in our old house.

It’s a leather bag from Marshall’s - why pay full price?!

Let’s see…

hammer

walkie talkies

electrical tape…

Just kidding. Wanted to see if you were paying attention.

For real, here are the contents of my purse currently. (Held back on the tampon… but otherwise, this is everything!)

Inside:

wallet, just got a new one that could hold more stuff

iPhone, which I finally got in December

lip glosses

brush though I don't like it that much

glasses and case just in case my contacts start to bother me

gift cards I need to use, especially the Sprouts one!

paper to write on

keys

tape measure

old Excedrin bottle with assorted emergency meds like Advil

sunscreen

contact moistening drops

pen

Okay y'all I think that's it. Wow, that’s not much. Really?! I need to add a makeup bag and some makeup for touch ups and maybe an umbrella since we get more rain here in Austin… I've also got to get more business cards printed. I'm all out. It's on the to-do list that is way too long.

Thanks so much for having me over today Shelley!

***

Ok, she really did have me going for a bit with the first photo. My first thought was, "huh???". Then I started thinking, "Well... some of it kinda makes sense. Yeah, I could see that." Ha!

You know what's interesting. Her purse totally matches her home decor! I knew it would be a gorgeous bright color :)

Thanks for stopping by Kristy!

By the way, you need some crumpled up papers and a little trash mixed in with your stuff. It's too clean and you're making me feel bad about myself!

baby nest discount!

2012-02-03T06:00:00.002-06:00

This month is Izzy’s 3rd birthday

I can barely believe it.

In honor of her birthday, and since she was the reason Baby Nest began, I am offering all of you guys a goodie

For the entire month of February, I am offering 10% off your entire Baby Nest purchase.

YAY!!!

Use discount code FEB10 at checkout to receive your discount!

snap, crackle, pop

2012-01-31T06:00:00.003-06:00

We had to send our vacuum back to Dyson for repairs, and finally got it back a couple of days ago.

Note: A 2 year old, a dog, and no vacuum will make you insane.

Well, this time (yep, had to send it back twice) they wanted to make sure nothing happened during shipping and sent it back wrapped in bubble wrap and LOTS of peanuts.

I couldn't help but let Izzy play around in the peanuts.

And, the bubble wrap has provided HOURS of entertainment over at our house.

How about you? Could you walk away from bubble wrap without trying to pop a few?

I didn't think so.

Oh, and in case you're wondering what is up with the dress over the jammies? Izzy has been putting her "ballet dress" as she calls it over everything lately so she can dance. Apparently, you can't dance without the proper attire. I'm thinking I might need to take the hint and get this girl in a real ballet class :)

kristina j.

2012-01-26T19:31:00.000-06:00

If you guys aren't already familiar with the blog Kristina J., I suggest you head over there quick fast and in a hurry!

You can find me guest posting at her place tonight too :)

Kristina is insanely talented and has an amazing sense of style. While you're there, make sure you check out her Anthropologizing posts - you will thank me! .

See you all there!

izzy's big girl room - sneak peak

2012-01-25T06:00:00.018-06:00

Izzy's room was included in my house resolutions I posted about here.

It was the first thing on the list to get attended to as it needed to happen asap.

Here's a little sneak peak of what I've been working on!

Good news is she's pleased as punch to be in a "big girl" room.

Even better news, she actually sleeps really well in there and we haven't had many issues transitioning her into a real bed.

I'm hoping to get everything finished within the next couple of weeks so I can give you the actual reveal soon!

LOADS of DIY's went into this space. And, I've got a few more up the ol sleeve to get done first ;)

I'll be linking up to these fab parties!

Before and After Party at Thrifty Decor Chick

Everything but the Kitchen Sink at A Little Knick Knack

Delightfully Inspiring Thursday at Delightful Order

Making it with Allie at What Allie's Making Now
Suzy's House Party at Saved by Suzy
Haute Stuff Thursday at Frugalicious Me

Feathered Nest Friday at French Country Cottage

Delicately Constructed Fridays at Delicate Construction
Inspiration Friday at At the Picket Fence
VIP Party at Designer Garden
Feature Friday at Five Days... 5 Ways

Weekend Link Up at Bacon Time with the Hungry Hypo
The Saturday Seven at Positively Splendid

Creative Bloggers' Party and Hop at Homemaker on a Dime

Sunday Showcase Party at Under the Table and Dreaming

seriously google?!?!?!

2012-01-23T06:00:00.001-06:00

I'm having a little meltdown... thanks to Google.

Meltdown No. 1 - Picnik

If you haven't already heard, Picnik (the most amazing free photo editor that has ever existed) is disappearing in April of this year.

AGHHHHHHH!!!!!!

I'm pulling my hair out over this as EVERY photo I put up on this blog or in my house is ran through Picnik in one way or another.

Apparently, they are moving some of their editing tools over to Google+. Checked it out, couldn't figure it out.

YUCK.

Meltdown No. 2 - Google Friend Connect

You've probably also heard the buzz about Google retiring Google Friend Connect (GFC) this March from non-Blogger hosted blogs.

From what I understand (and if any of you have a better understanding, please let me know) if you have a Blogger hosted blog you will still retain your GFC followers and will be able to continue following other Blogger hosted blogs as you normally do. Nothing should change for you. However, other blogs that have followers through GFC will lose those followers unless their followers chose other means to follow; email subscriptions, feeds, etc.

Google again, is suggesting Google+ as the place to be. Not sure why that would be a solution, but whatever.

YUCK.

What's happening here Google?!

Not sure about you guys, but I check out Google+ today and wasn't impressed.

Are they trying to compete with Facebook? Do we really need something else to keep track of?

I just don't get it, and their photo editing doesn't make any sense either. I'm so completely bummed.

Another Following Option

In light of the GFC changes, and because I don't completely understand how everyone will be effected, I decided to add Networked Blogs as another following option. You can now find it on my sidebar below my GFC.

Of course, you still have the option of following through a feed or signing up for an email subscription. Those options are found at the top right hand corner of the sidebar.

So, what are your thoughts about Google lately?

Anyone have suggestions for a free or affordable substitution to Picnik?

I'm so bummed.... I think I need to make myself a bowl of ice cream.

floppy glove fix - tutorial

2012-01-19T06:00:00.001-06:00

So, my gloves don't necessarily "fit like a glove".

The thumbs are so long and floppy I can't even wear the darn things without going nuts.

And no, I don't have freakishly short thumbs. They just fit poorly.

And yes, it would be easy to buy another pair. But I keep forgetting :D

What you'll need:

ill fitting gloves you're too forgetful to replace :)
needle and matching thread
pin
scissors

STEP ONE: Turn your gloves inside out and place on hands

STEP TWO: Insert pin just above the tip of your thumb or whatever fingers don't fit (careful not to poke yourself!)

STEP THREE: Starting at one end, stitch a curve for the new top of your finger piece.

STEP FOUR: Snip off the end, and turn your gloves right side out again.

Tada! They fit!!!

I'll be linking up to these fab parties!

Passionately Artistic
What's Up Wednesdays at Sew Woodsy
Wow Us Wednesdays at Savvy Southern Style
Wow Me Wednesday at Ginger Snaps
Whatever Goes Wednesdays at Someday Crafts
Look What I Made! at Creations by Kara
What We Wore and Made at Rae Gun Ramblings

Everything but the Kitchen Sink at A Little Knick Knack

Delightfully Inspiring Thursday at Delightful Order

Making it with Allie at What Allie's Making Now
Suzy's House Party at Saved by Suzy
Haute Stuff Thursday at Frugalicious Me

Delicately Constructed Fridays at Delicate Construction
Inspiration Friday at At the Picket Fence
VIP Party at Designer Garden
Feature Friday at Five Days... 5 Ways

Weekend Link Up at Bacon Time with the Hungry Hypo
The Saturday Seven at Positively Splendid

Creative Bloggers' Party and Hop at Homemaker on a Dime

Sunday Showcase Party at Under the Table and Dreaming

sweet shimmery goodness I'm in love

2012-01-16T06:00:00.001-06:00

A while back I hosted a giveaway with Cutting Edge Stencils.

Well, the awesome folks there also gave me a stencil of my choice to try out!

I chose the Marrakech Trellis stencil in the long size.

Initally I wanted to use it in out bedroom, but never got around to pulling the bed out yada-yada...

But, when my mom mentioned she was redoing her small sitting room I knew a stencil would be PERFECT for that space.

Here's her space before the putting up the stencil

How It Went

The wall's base color is Glidden's Fauna and we used Lowes' Valspar metal and patina glaze in Pewter for the stencil.

The stencil came with 3 pieces: ceiling/top piece, main body piece, and side piece. I chose to start with the ceiling stencil piece, and ran it all across the top of the wall.

The main stencil lined up easily with the top portion, and was held in place with painter's tape.

Sweet immediate gratification!

And, would you check out that shimmer?!

Yes please! Me likey :D

The rest of the project FLEW by. The main body piece of the stencil is huge so you cover a lot of ground quickly. Big plus for me since I'm incredibly impatient. After I finished up with the main body piece, I used the smaller side piece to fill in the edges of the wall.

Here's the finished wall!

The sun had already gone down by this point so you kind of miss out on how amazing the glaze looks and changes in the sunlight.

It really looks like wallpaper vs. paint due to the glaze.

Tips

Definitely don't over load your roller. The least amount of paint/glaze on the roller is best since too much paint/glaze is what gives you gloppy edges.
Try different sheans of paint or glazes together. I think what made this look so great was using a shimmery glaze over a flat paint. I think another fun look would be using a gloss paint over the same color flat paint.
Map out how your stencil will be placed before jumping in and painting. I started out by holding the upper ceiling and side pieces in place to see how it would line up with my main body piece. That way I didn't run into any issues with placement after it was too late.

My Thoughts

Initally when everyone started talking about how stencils were making a comeback I said to myself, "NEVER!"

I immediately thought of the small stencils my mom put up as borders in the house back in the 80's. She spent SO much time on those things. Using the little stipple brushes, special paint, etc.

These are totally not your mother's stencils :D

Really quick process due to the large size of the stencil. This wall was completed in 2 hours (with a 2 year old running around)
Easy to use. Directions are sent with the stencil. And, if you learn best by watching, they have video tutorials on their website.
The extra pieces for the ceiling and sides make getting into difficult spots so much easier.
Easy clean up. Since the stencil is so large I put it in the bottom of the bath tub to clean off. Any paint that was stuck in the smaller parts/edges of the stencil cleans of easily with an old toothbrush.
Durable. There was no damage to the stencil after clean up, and the material is thick enough to use over and over again. More bang for the ol buck!

Never would I have thought I'd like a stenciled wall, but I've got to admit it, I really love with the way my mom's wall turned out.

She keeps hugging me and telling me thank you so I think she's pretty pleased with it too :)

home resolutions 2012

2012-01-11T06:00:00.001-06:00

I've never been a fan of New Years resolutions for myself.

Mostly because I KNOW I'll end up breaking them within the first month, if I even make it that far.

But, the thought of home resolutions, or things I'd like to finally get finished in our home, seems much more do-able. I can count on my house having the self restraint to put down that cookie ;)

So, here is a list of my Home Resolutions for 2012

Dining Room

I don't think you guys have seen a full picture of this room before. I'm not in love, but I want to be. The dining room set is my husband's grandmothers. 6 years ago he refinished it and I made slipcovers. I'm just still not feeling it, but I don't want to get rid of it either.

Add picture frame moulding below the chair rail
Add crown molding
Paint ceiling
Switch out chandelier
Take hutch off the sideboard
New seating (add a bench, different head chairs, make new slipcovers???)
Add art

Some of my inspiration:

{via Pinterest via ??}

{via Pinterest via Cottage Living - Tia Zoldan??}

{via Ballard Design}

{via Pinterest via Isabella and Max Rooms}

{via Pinterest via a'la mode}

Stairway

Add picture frame moulding up the stairs
Add to and update the gallery wall
And, if a dream can come true, ripping up the carpet

Here's what's inspiring me:

{via Pinterest via Ivy and Piper}

{via Pinterest via Sawdust and Paper Scraps}

{via Pinterest via House Beautiful}

Master Bedroom

This is another room you've never seen. I've not done anything to it because again, I'm not sure what to do with it.

Try to convince my husband to let me switch up his matchy, matchy bachelor furniture set. Ugh... wish me luck
Re-paint in a gray tone
Add crown molding
Add interest to headboard wall (thinking more picture frame molding painted the same color as the wall)
Do something about the ugly ceiling fan lights
New art
Update bedding
Add in some stinking accessories already!

Some ideas from Pinterest I'd like to incorporate:

{via Pinterest via A Well Dressed Home}

{via Pinterest via Milk and Honey Home}

{via Pinterest via Abode Love??}

Izzy's Room

This used to be a guest room until I over flowed it with well... junk. A few days after I took those pictures I dove in, and it's currently on it's way to being completed. I'm still working on getting all the finished touches together, and praying that the perfect nightstand becomes available for the perfect price on Craigslist ;)

Paint
Upholstered headboard
Reading nook
Drapes & bedding
Dresser & nightstand

I'm wanting to incorporate the look of these rooms, and the bright colors against white, into her room:

{via Pinterest via Apartment Therapy}

{via Pinterest via House Beautiful}

{via Pinterest via bhg}

Whew!!!

So, here's to getting it all done this year...

or at least started :D

Anyone else going for home resolutions this year?

foldover clutch - tutorial

2012-01-05T06:00:00.002-06:00

Remember the clutch from my last giveaway?

I already showed you how to make the bubble magnets here, so today I'm going to show you how to make the foldover clutch!

What you'll need:

fabric for the exterior (I used a piece of burlap from a grain sack)
fabric for the lining
heavy weight interfacing
magnetic snap closure
thread
scissors
pins
sewing machine

STEP ONE: I wanted my bag to be approx. 13" x 16" when fully open, making it approx. 13" x 8" when folded over.

Exterior fabric - Cut one 14" x 33" piece.

Interfacing - Cut one 14" x 33" piece, and two small pieces approx. 2" x 2" each.

Liner fabric - Cut two 13.5" x 16.5" pieces. You want the liner pieces to be a little smaller so they will fit nicely inside without buckling.

These measurements will give you a 1/2" seam allowance along the sewn edges.

STEP TWO: Place and pin your liner pieces right sides together, and sew along the edges and bottom.

STEP THREE: Lay out your long piece of interfacing vertically. Place your exterior piece of fabric directly on top so that the right side of the fabric is facing you. Now fold both the fabric and interfacing up and in half so that the fold is along the bottom of the clutch. Pin and sew along both side edges, leaving the top open. (A note about the picture - I was having issues with the burlap fraying, that is why you see two rows of stitching on the sides. I later cut the exterior stitching off.)

STEP FOUR: I wanted my magnetic closure to be approx. 2 inches down from the opening. With the liner fabric still turned right sides together, center the flat backing of the magnetic closure approx. 2 inches down from the opening. Mark where the slits are and use scissors to cut small slits through both the front and back pieces of the liner fabric. Cut the same spaced slits into your two small pieces of interfacing. These pieces of interfacing will help ensure the lining fabric doesn't tear from repeated opening and closing of your bag.

STEP FIVE: Attach magnetic closure. Lay one piece of interfacing between the wrong side of the liner fabric and the back and the magnetic closure. Attach the closure as per the instructions. The magnetic sides will be on the right sides of the fabric.

STEP SIX: This next part sounds confusing so make sure to pay close attention to the photos. Turn the liner fabric right side out and slide it into the exterior/interfaced piece. The right sides of the liner fabric should be facing the right sides of the exterior fabric. Line up the tops and pin into place. Sew along the top, but (this is important) leave yourself an opening so you can turn the bag right side out.

STEP SEVEN: Turn bag right side out and press seams flat.

STEP EIGHT: Pin the opening you left open closed, and stitch along the entire top of the bag.

STEP NINE: Give yourself a pat on the back because you're done baby!

I really love this clutch.

You can stuff as little or as much in it as you want, and fold it over as little or as much as you want.

You could even add a fun vintage broach to it. How cute would that be huh???

So there you have it!

And, interested in how I made the monogrammed mugs shown in my giveaway?

Be sure to check out Gabrielle's blog Design Mom for the full tutorial.

It's excellent! I had it pinned to my Pinterest board for a while since it was so fabulous, and I'm thrilled I tried them out. They are by far the most favorite mugs we have :)

I'll be linking up to these fab parties!

Before and After Party at Thrifty Decor Chick

Everything but the Kitchen Sink at A Little Knick Knack

Delightfully Inspiring Thursday at Delightful Order

Making it with Allie at What Allie's Making Now
Haute Stuff Thursday at Frugalicious Me

Show and Share at Just a Girl

Delicately Constructed Fridays at Delicate Construction
Inspiration Friday at At the Picket Fence
VIP Party at Designer Garden

Weekend Link Up at Bacon Time with the Hungry Hypo
The Saturday Seven at Positively Splendid

Creative Bloggers' Party and Hop at Homemaker on a Dime

Sunday Showcase Party at Under the Table and Dreaming

inside my bag - green eggs and hamm

2012-01-02T06:00:00.001-06:00

Well hello again! I feel like I've been away FOR-EVER.

I would have been back to posting soon after Christmas, but with my husband home over the break we've just been going non-stop. He talks about how he just can't wait for a break so he can relax at home. Then when he gets a break, SEVERE cabin fever sets in about 3 hours later :D

Anywho, I'm back and I missed you guys!

I'm starting off the new year with a new

Today my super fabulous cousin Amy is over from Green Eggs and Hamm!

I truly can't say enough about this amazing woman I'm so lucky to call my cousin. She's the girl that can pull any and everything off because she's so flipping gorgeous and fabulous. She's just plain cool and a BLAST to be around. If you didn't love her so much you'd hate her ;)

Amy's blog has a little taste of everything including sewing, and thrifting. And, if you enjoy thrifting, be sure to check out her Etsy shop too.

So, let's see what inside her bag!

It's Amy again from Green Eggs and Hamm. When Shelley said she was doing a series of "what's in my bag" I knew I was down. I have to be honest though, I cleaned my purse out about a week ago so it is usually much messier. I can't even front!

I love my bag. I got it at Nordstrom for $25 in the BP section. The strap is long enough to wear cross body and perfect for my thrifting adventures. It will have to do until I catch Shelley slipping and can steal her Louis Vuitton while she has her back turned. You really can't trust family (my mom and her dad are twins!). Maybe I will visit her and bring chocolate...and wine...in bulk, or chocolate wine.

So here it is:

Victoria's Secret lipstick in red and hot pink.

Burts Bees chapstick

lip gloss

eye drops

a pouch for coupons, discount cards, rarely used credit cards (found it at a craft fair years ago)

socks - one of my babies

Gum (that I have to hide from my gum stealing daughter)

Thank you cards for teachers

Joanns coupons (of course)

US Magazine-it's all true you know (from the library because I am cheap and frequent the library weekly)

Wallet from Target

Car wash voucher that will be used asap

a stylus I bought for my Ipad but haven't even used. It didn't come with a tutorial.

Uncharged Ipod, because charging it would be too easy

Gigantic hoops-I have always worn giant hoop earrings, it makes me feel shorter.

Necklace with ballet slippers (mine when I was little, now my daughter's)

A tire to something? Lego's maybe?

Barrette

Washers-got them for a project...lived in my car for a couple months, now my purse

Cell phone with broken screen. Child #1 says child #2 did it and vice versa.

That's it! Am I boring or what?

Thank you Shelley for having me over! I adore you and your craftiness and as always your fabulous hair! Hope everyone has a wonderful New Year! Here is to reaching all of your goals and waking up each day like it's your birthday!

***

Shelley again - So, I really want to know what she's planning on doing with those washers. Necklace?? Bracelet?? She's so crafty.

Thanks for stopping by Amy, I love you! And, if you come over with wine and chocolate you can have anything you want!!!

my new live-in maid

2011-12-23T14:22:00.001-06:00

Izzy really wanted to use the vacuum the other day.

I mean, what kind of mom would I be if I didn't let her ~~do my house work for me~~ have fun once in a while ;)

santa pic

2011-12-21T08:17:00.000-06:00

Another year, another Santa pic... or two.

This year we were going to avoid the mall and hit up the Santa right by our house. We got there right before the ginger bread house opened, hoping to get in and out.

Santa was a no show for about an hour.

Parents were all joking that Santa might have been nursing a hangover from the night before ;)

Judging from his appearance when he showed up (situating his stuffing in front of the kiddos) that might not been too far off.

But, Izzy finally got her pic!

Big smile this year. MUCH different than last year's picture.

This last weekend while in a Bass Pro in Branson, I spotted the most amazing looking Santa!

So we got another picture.

Will she be confused? Probably.

But, I couldn't pass this Santa up. He even smelled like Peppermint. Who cares if it was Schnapps ;D

Here's my Santa pic from when I was Izzy's age. So fun to look back.

Do you guys do Santa pics?

Any good Santa stories?

come say hi

2011-12-15T12:52:00.000-06:00

Today you can find me at...

White Lacquer

guest posting on my wish list of things I want!