Little Lovables

Living Authentically

2015-02-25T15:28:00.001-06:00

So, where to begin? Last year, I shared with you about the decision to divorce. We went back and forth for months but finally decided it was right, on our 10 year anniversary. Once we left our "church", a whole world of pain and possibilities and regrets opened up into our world. We realized our entire lives were based on a cultish lie and that really does something painful to a person's mindset. We thought we were strong enough to withstand it. But life has a funny way of sweeping you away and forcing you to look straight at the problems, which was especially hard for my husband who ended up going through an early mid-life crisis. It became this unhealthy, traumatic thing that could no longer continue as it unraveled layers of pain. It was a year of immense tragedy. So, it had to end, so that we could both find healing. We both deserve healing.

Trying to figure it out, as a new single mom of 3, how to support my family, how to gain control. Being a stay at home mom for the majority of my adult life gave very little hope of earning potential to do this. I worked three jobs at one point just to be able to move out of my house. I drowned sorrow in the horrific world of dating. We had just moved across the country with zero support system or network in the area and it seemed that was the only way to meet people. To make matters worse, leaving our church and getting a divorce meant that our entire social network within our church shunned us, family disowned us and friends chose sides between us. Many only saw the outside of a happy marriage and didn't look at the truth of it's demise, and I didn't want to do any mud slinging to protect my image. I recognize we both had to grow and were operating out of a place of pain. So really, I've been negotiating this world alone. I did meet a great person that turned into an amazing relationship but that didn't work out, so I've mostly been nursing my wounds and feeling basically, like a piece of garbage that is so easily thrown away by so many.

So at this point, I'm really just working hard on myself and my children's happiness. It hasn't been easy, but we are resilient. Finding new ways to connect and help them feel loved and stable sharing two homes. Brushing up on skills and embarking on a new career and seeing where life takes me has been my only sight of hope. I know so many people share similar stories of starting over and that's the only reason I share a very brief version of what happened in my life. I can say that every day is a struggle, but I am determined to be deeply happy, naysayers be damned. I still don't know how to drown out the pain that I feel during quiet moments, but it's something that I am actively working on. I won't have much time to share my home decorations and crafts like I used to love to do here on my blog, but I hope that through writing and finding other pieces of beauty to share, that healing will come in time, for myself and for readers alike.

People ask, if you hadn't left the church, you would still have your marriage, you wouldn't be going through all of this additional hardship. Would you still make the choice if you could to leave? And while that may be true, I would rather live an authentic life of truth. I found out the truth of the church as I was very actively defending it. Through thousands of hours of intense study, prayer and research, I realized I had been lied to and ensnared by a religion I once thought I loved and devoted my whole life to. There is hidden pain in the church that members don't speak of, many don't recognize it because there is a learned repression of cognitive dissonance and fear of spiritual manipulation of losing your eternal family and soul if you question it. So when members *do* discover it, it's an earthshattering pain to realize you have sacrificed your entire life for a huge, hurtful lie... but living under the banner of truth and the ability to finally think for myself... that's worth everything. I am mostly happy that I discovered the truth and escaped the cult before it entangled my children's lives. They were hurt by it too, but in their youth, they are able to heal more quickly. It's been so freeing, painful, but freeing and being free yields a calm peacefulness inside my soul that I never had before. The journey out of the church was difficult, but the inner peace and happiness I feel as a woman of honor and truth replaced any false happiness the church claimed to provide.

Are you a Mormon, a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints that is also having questions and deep doubts about it's truth claims and policies that are causing pain to people? Do you want to do your own research? Feel free to contact me and/or visit here. These
sites are all extremely well researched, sincere and not "anti".

Mormon Think
CES Letter
Ask Reality - I suggest watching his videos 1-8 in that order
BBC Special with Jeffrey R Holland
Cult Education Institute - 10 Signs of a Cult - I read this list as a Mormon and didn't see how what they said was dangerous. After years of heavy research and allowing myself to look at it with a discerning eye, it terrified me to see all the warning signs exist in this religion.

Aquatic My Way

2015-02-03T15:35:00.000-06:00

I have been gone forever! Life has been a hurricane and many times I felt the waves crash over me and pin me down. It knocked me over with such force that I couldn't tell which way was up. I found moments of respite in the eye of the hurricane and in those times, I floated on a life raft and paddled vigorously to keep my head above water, but it only left me parched. Anytime I found dry ground, my feet reached for safe harbor, but then something else would sweep me away as I struggled to keep up, gasping for air. But it was salty. Feeling alone, completely lost at sea, trying to make a difference but getting pulled back in the undertow, I was purely in survival mode. Too many times I struggled to breathe and didn't know how I was going to make it.

But I'm coming back.

Did you hear me storm?! I always thought I was a strong swimmer, but this has been an endurance test. It's important for my well being to indulge in the therapeutic powers of creative mindfulness. Substance and purpose to enhance my life and those around me. After all, how can I extend a life raft if I can't even hang on to my own? But here, my little island... this helps me create goals, stay focused on lovely things and enhance my soul, so that I can face future storms that I know are coming. Allowing words, and visions of beauty and creation to wash over me. A baptism of growth. I'm ready to take a breath of fresh, crisp air and fill my lungs with a voice again. It's my turn to revel in my inner force of nature. No longer adrift, my compass is set. I embrace my journey. Join me.

*post title borrowed from 311's "Brodels" *image, unkown

Sweet Treats: Happy Valentine's Day - 2014

2014-02-14T07:02:00.000-06:00

This is kind of a weird time for Valentine's Day in my life. But I had to go ahead and make a yummy treat for the kiddo's sake. Pink lemonade cake with pink lemonade and butter cream frosting. And of course semi-sweet chocolate chips and sprinkles! I hope all of you are having a wonderful Valentine's Day, Single Awareness Day... or for me, a soon to be divorced mom... this is my last official Valentine's as a legally married woman day :/

I know, I always choose the most proper timing for news.... but a separation leading to divorce around the same time as a cross country move will take a person away from blog-land for a while. But you know, all good things eventually come to an end of some sort, which is exactly how this cake will end up, dirty dishes in the sink :)

Wicked, Twisted Truth of Beauty

2013-12-06T17:39:00.000-06:00

I recently worked tirelessly on a few fashions shows, and though many pics I have not yet worked on, I felt the need to share them before the year runs out. This phase of my life has come to a tumultuous turn, however I am thankful for the experiences that broadened me as an artist and as a person. True tests of character, work ethic and family ties have awakened me stronger than before, and in many ways, I have my salon's fashion show to thank for that!

The first was our Fair Queen pageant, which turned out to be a great success and an exciting experience to be a part of.

Here I am getting my model all dolled up and ready for her debut as a Fair Queen candidate.

The second event, really stretched me as a stylist, artist and a person.... At the salon until the early morning many nights, working exhaustively on scripts, costuming, props and the like. But what an amazing experience that I would not have traded for anything! I hope you enjoy my work :)

I hand painted this dress with black latex paint, and hand bustled with with black tulle and ribbon. The petticoat was supposed to also be bustled, to show the black layers underneath, but they forgot that part when I was directing the show. Still looked amazing.

The puppet scene... these ladies really stripped down and went crazy with it!

The I&II Band really helped us out with show intervals.

I created this bustled angel skirt and it was awesome. Unfortunately, they put it on backwards!

I spent quite some time on this black swan mask. Unfortunately, the "poison ivy ' character that I spent the most time on, evaded the camera, so no pictures of her amazing costume and hair.

I love my ugly vintage dress collection. This one fit perfectly for the dia de los muetros mourning scene, complete with a photo of my granfather in his Korean War era soldier uniform.

The angel wings were pretty weak, so I got several pairs and restructured them into a larger, fuller set.
I spent hours on these ladies sugar skull make-up and costuming accessories! The blue one was my favorite, I have a better picture of her on my other camera.

My sister's old homecoming dress came in handy here.

This scene was a young couple vs their older selves. Kind of sweet, glad I had this frame they could use.

My pink vintage skirt made an appearance.

I ran out of time to make her bridal hat, so I quickly weaved flowers into her hair as I pulled it up into retro glamour twists and braids. You can see me peeking over her shoulder getting the next gothic bride ready to walk.

I made her necklace and the accessories the bride behind her is wearing as well.

I loved creating their hats and dress accessories almost as much as I did working on their hair and faces.

The end of a very long, exhausting day... wait weeks... no months!

Inspired Interiors: Bean Bag Chairs

2013-12-05T12:56:00.003-06:00

Willow Glen Residence on LMInteriorDesign.com

Well, it's been a crazy ride, but we finally made our cross-country move! The nice thing about our new home, is the large finished basement where we can allow the kids to have free reign. Design possibilities allow us to have a more colorful and comfortable atmosphere there. Which is why I was really excited to come across these really neat bean bag chairs from BeanBagBoss.com. Gone are the old vinyl, soccer ball looking ones from my youth... these are more cozy, stylish, come in an array of colors, patterns, even faux leather and lame. They can also be molded into chairs. I absolutely love the look of the above playroom. Those are definitely within my color palate of turquoise, sage, black and white, kid friendly but with a perfect sense of style for the discerning adult.These would make excellent gifts for the holidays as well, and free shipping for all of my Canadian readers! Be sure to check out their facebook page, for some really neat style ideas.

Lovin' this lavender little girls room! It doesn't take much space or energy to create a cozy reading corner. More adorable pics of this shabby chic room here on Baby Eagle T.

My two little guys would love to dive in like this!

I love this perfect little reading and activity nook for the kid's basement. An IKEA bookcase, tables and chairs, toy storage and cozy seating in bright colors are a welcome room for any kid. via

Ever the sucker for orange, this room morphs from little boy to growing kid quite well. via

I have to say though, I *really* love Bean Bag Boss' metallic chairs. My Elisabeth's room has pops of gold, and I feel that golds and silvers add a touch of class to most any rooms.Would even be pretty in a modern master bedroom.

So, are you digging the new style of bean bag chairs? What's your color preference? These are cozier than the poufs craze of previous years!

*sponsored, paid for post. thank you Bean Bag Boss!

Stress Fest

2013-09-11T23:52:00.000-05:00

You know that kind of stress that grows from within, yet imposes from without, and it pushes and pulls you in all directions... and sometimes it is exciting and fun to see where it will take you, but other times it creates hardship and overwhelming circumstances that you have no idea how to handle, but know that you just have to keep pushing through it, and it will be over with soon... which is both a good thing but a bad thing, so you love the excitement of the unexpected, but feel the sadness and fear of everything else and you are left with a bittersweetness of it all, so not really sure what to do, say or think of it all, but what you do know is that you are overwhelmed and overtired and so not on task...? Well yeah. That is where I am right now. So, now you have the world's longest run-on sentence and a lot of pink, flowers and glitter. Because those make everything better, right?

glittered hanger tutorial via A Bubbly Life

Inspired Room: Lovely DIY Golden Heart Walls for a Little Girl's Room

2013-08-29T01:54:00.000-05:00

We are on the hunt for a new rental, so I know I will be getting the decorating itch soon! Since Elisabeth will finally have her own room, I am thinking of something temporary to add lots of girly glam. Then, I saw what Holly of In the Fun Lane did to her little girl, Wren's room, and I so love it! The metallic touches will go great with the ones I have in Elisabeth's fabric garland I made.

Using these gold heart wall decals from Danielle and Paul at Urban Walls, she mapped out pretty little touches to the room for a lovely, mini-makeover. I am excited to see what else they have, perhaps something like this airplane for the boys room?

Downtown Stuodio Salon: Painting a Mirror Frame and Vanity

2013-08-12T22:26:00.003-05:00

Here is my work station at my salon, Downtown Studio and (facebook page). I have shown pics of this place before and of my work, and yet the place is always changing. That is the beauty of having customized work stations as opposed to the matching built-ins that so many salons use. We have a penchant for vintage and diy, and our style is reflective of the combined personalities of our salon family and our guests. The salon owner, Candice, painted, glazed and distressed this desk herself. The mirror was quite small, so we exchanged this brass mirror for the larger size.

I mixed it a little paint with some clear glaze and gently dry brushed some more turquoise and purple on the mirror and added for purple to the desk for a uniform look. The corner details are the purple Martha Stewart glitter paint. I also painted a picture frame for holding a Brazilian Blowout certificate to match.

A few carefully selected storage items hold all I need for a functional, yet pretty corner. I decorated an acrylic business card holder with trim, vintage buttons and jewels, the faux book holds foils for highlighting hair, a vintage bottle holds fresh roses and my chevron bucket contains formula info and other notes. The purple mason tip jar is gussied up with some hanging prisms.

Our salon is in a very old building in a Historic town square, that once sold clothes and work denim ceiling high, but we love the industrial charm of exposed pipes and amazing, stained cement floors.

By using vanities and furniture combed through searching on craigslist, facebook garage sale groups, and local thrift shops, we have connected a community through reusing beloved furniture pieces, while at the same time, creating a salon with a lot of character and a flexible budget. We have had more than one client come in here claiming that a piece of furniture once belong to them as a child or a loved one in their family whose furniture they hadn't seen in years, and were thrilled to be reunited again with it.

This wall now boasts two amazing, rare, vintage light fixtures, and a birdcage for storage. I will have to post those soon!

This stylist brought her heirloom vanity and vintage chair from home.

People often mistake our salon for an antique shop, as our windows are ever changing, and there are many antique shops on our square. We will eventually install that amazing door as our sign, so people will really know from the street just who we are. This is a wonderful place to work and to visit as a client and I am going to miss it so much when I leave! But at least have helped create a little footprint through the floors, chandelier, my dresser turned make-up station, furniture, hair and events we have worked on together :)

Sweet Treats: Summer Berry Cool Whip Cake

2013-07-26T00:42:00.000-05:00

I am taking a little summer vacation to see family and get crap done, so I leave you with a treat that I like to think is *healthy*, and takes but minutes to make. We have made this cake a few times this summer. The fun thing is, you can play with what fruits and berries (cherries, kiwi, banana, blueberry, blackberry, raspberry, strawberry, mandarin oranges) you want to use and the frosting too. I used chocolate frosting this time, but last time I used pink lemonade frosting and it was amazing!! Plus, you can make it all pretty and festive!!

Mix together some of your cool whip and a frosting flavor of your choice.

Slice your angel food cake in half and frost the middle. Top that with chopped strawberries.

I added extra dollups of cool-whip to decorate the top. Then add your berries, sprinkles, chocolate shavings, fresh mint leaves, shredded coconut or whatever. The cake tastes best if you chill it for at least 30 minutes. And enjoy, for a light and fluffy, refreshing summer treat!

Homefront: A New Journey

2013-07-19T21:41:00.000-05:00

We are going to be embarking on a whole new adventure! In a few months, we will be packing up and moving from Texas to Washington state. I am pretty sure this makes move # 7 since I have been blogging, but all those moves were within a few hours drive, so this is a big one. All of my collecting and most of my furniture will be going bye bye. Which is interesting, because we have been in this rental house for one year now, and my lovely plate and gallery wall items never came out of the moving boxes. We have only a few things on the walls, ever since our last landlord turned crazy-town on us, we kept this place pretty nail-hole free.

It will be exciting to have a totally clean start. I have been watching episodes of "Clean House" on Netflix to mentally prep me for letting go of stuff. For our last move, I had a huge garage sale (even though was 9 months pregnant), than took a truckload of goods to Goodwill. Funny that out of all of that stuff we got rid of, I only miss one thing. My three lantern light that my husband mistakenly sold for a single dollar :(

Since my mom is also moving with us, and she also has to storage units full of furniture 6 hours away from us, so that is going to be the most stressful part. Somehow hauling some of her stuff here and trying to get rid of the rest. During times of stress, I just tell myself that in a few short months, all of this headache will be behind us, and we will be enjoying a brand new life, in a beautiful, new place. And even though we will miss some very dear friends here, they will always be a part of us.

DIY: Saving your Stuff with Embellishments

2013-07-10T01:19:00.003-05:00

I am all about camouflaging imperfections in order to renew things to better serve their purpose. From curtains covered in doilies, to clothing, throws, lampshades or purses covered in lace ruffles or fabric rosettes, there are many options out there to save that coveted, ruined object. Have you thrown something out that you later regretted, something that could have been saved by a tiny embellishment? Do you go thrifting to find a shirt that is perfect, except for a small stain or rip? Well, there are plenty of great options to fix that! Fabric rosettes are easy to make and can simply be stitched or even glued on. Over 40 great flower tutorials here!

Doilys can be tea stained for a vintage aging effect. They are easy to handstitch, or can be ironed on using stitch witchery.

retro doily window covering by enchanted little pixie

embellished throw using ribbons, ruffles and lace salvaged from old clothing tutorial by nester

lace ruffled shirt tutorial to hide a stain by me, littlelovables

flowered embellished dress to camouflage ink stains by in the fun lane

Elisabeth's Whimsical One Year Old Birthday Party

2013-06-20T01:40:00.000-05:00

My sister, who has 4 boys, was so excited to collaborate with a baker to make this cake. It was perfect!

I helped make some balloons, but this flower basket was by my fabulous sister, Pookie the Clown!

Paper garland made by me and my mother in law using scrapbook paper.

I made this adorable birthday crown. It is actually very easy and fun to make! Just make a paper cone out of sturdy cardstock and embellish it. I used cupcake liners for the paper flower and I cut up crepe paper and glued it on the top and bottom.

These cute boxes and picks are from Micheal's. Adding cotton candy to them made them useful!

The scrapbook paper used in the garland and party hat made a cute #1. I think I will try and do this every year!

These napkins were the inspiration for the theme. We quickly planned this party during a vacation, as in like, one day, so it was fun to come up with something whimsical, inexpensive and matching.

This gift is pretty much only given as a cruel joke for the happy parents.

Trying on her first pair of sunglasses.

Elisabeth with her aunt Lindsey and Grandma.

She threw a fit for a few mintues, but then resumed to joyfully eating her cupcake.

Daddy taking her to get all cleaned up.

Entertainment for the night was a magic show by her cousin Casey and uncle Stephen.

Her very first pigtails!

Aunt Pookie's lionhead bunny had lots of babies!

Elisabeth with her Daddy's parents.

linked to Everything Etsy's Crafty Girl Linky Party

Keeping it Real: Getting in Shape

2013-06-11T02:28:00.003-05:00

Today I am keeping it real. My family started p90x about 2 months back. We were dedicated too. I want to see some changes in a few specific places, especially for the summer when skin is in! But then life happened. My husband traveled for work a lot, I worked a lot of nights. We went on a mini-vacation. We burnt out and got tired. Not of the actual workout, no we love it, we love the way it makes us feel, and even after a short while we started to see results! It was having to do it at 9 or 10 at night that got hard. So, somehow, we are going to have to figure it out because we need to get back on track.

We try to eat healthy, but we are certainly not perfect. Sure, I am a sucker for SPIRAL Kraft Mac n Cheese and burritos, but I draw the line at corndogs and red meat!! We grab pretzels instead of Cheet-ohs, water instead of soda, whole grain instead of enriched/bleached, healthy cereal instead of junk, oatmeal instead of poptarts, trail mix instead of cookies, fresh berries instead of candy. We bought a pretty great blender (the Ninja) and drink quite healthy and tasty smoothies every night. We planted a garden. The past few years, we went on a pretty strict diet of watching food documentaries, Forks vs Knives, Food Inc, Fat Sick and Nearly Dead, Supersize Me.... and others, so we are fairly educated on what needs to be done here. It is amazing to realize how many food lies there are around us (see ad above! ;)

pretty pink papaya smoothie by keepin it kind vs carrot papaya muffins via blisstree

Even though we are fairly in shape people, we can always be better. Not just to look better in our clothes, but to feel happier in our skin. To have a healthful glow and energy. To teach our kids how to make wise food decisions. And that, for me.. means we can still have our treats and goodies... just in moderation and small servings. When they beg me for ice cream, I say, "Okay, but you have to eat a banana/apple/carrot first". Now I have to live by that rule as well... at least dark chocolate is practically a ladies' vitamin!

So, during the season of summer travel and out of school boredom, try not to fall into the snack trap. Have goodie bags of healthy snacks laid out, drink lots of water. Don't go shopping hungry and don't buy crap... if it isn't in your house, you can't eat it! And the one I need to work on the most, is meal plan. Exercise! Because Batman cannot look better in a frilly, pink dress than I do.

Vintage Suitcases Memento Craft Idea via A Drawer Full of Pretty Wishes

2013-05-13T13:28:00.001-05:00

Megan of A Drawer Full of Pretty Wishes blog has got some serious fashion and craft talent, more on that in later posts. But I just simply adore her vintage suitcase ideas. They would make a wonderful keepsake gift, using mementos and special touches all in a nice, traveling package. Almost like a scrapbook or shadow box , but on a bigger scale. I pass by vintage suitcases all the time in thrift shops. If you made several, they would look adorable stacked in a corner together. Imagine, one for birthdays, seasonal holidays, then they easily fold up to be stored away until next year. I look forward to making some of these soon!

I love the dainty details of ribbon and lace. Personalized buntings and banners are easy to make with either fabric or paper and add an extra special touch. This dance themed case is complete with a tutu and vintage art of a ballerina. I know many little girls who would love this!

Love this frame idea. Paint and distress an old frame, than glue vintage rhinestone buttons or clip-on earrings or brooches to decorate it. Add a pretty saying or photo. Simple and sweet.

I love how she added sport items and comics for an 8 year old boy! Imagine making a Star Wars, Minecraft, Leggo, science, dinosaur, animal, military, cowboy or car themed case. They would make a cute table display at a birthday party.

Prom and Bridal Hair by Me and my Downtown Studio Salon Team

2013-05-08T14:27:00.000-05:00

partial updo by me, elegant twists make a stunning partial

It is prom and wedding season and we have been going crazy with updos here at Downtown Studio in Historic Rosenberg, Texas! We have been doing lots of the relaxed and more creative style hair for weddings, and the teens are all about partial updos. Common requests this year are braids, twists and soft curls. Which is fine by me, it's one of my favorite styles to achieve! So scroll down for lots of creative inspiration photos by our salon. If you pin them, please attribute the photos to us, thanks!! If you are the The Sugar Land, Pecan Grove, Rosenberg, Richmond, Katy, Houston, Needville areas, come on by to get your hair done! We make it a party every time :) If you aren't local, come say "hi" on our facebook page for lots of hair styling tips and tutorials.

hair by me, a small french twist with little pin curls

hair by me, lots of woven twists and braids! love that reverse ombre

hair by me, twists and braids!

hair by me, more twists, braids and curls!

updo by me, tiny braids are woven throughout

color and partial updo by Candice, extensions by Trecina

updo by Candice

side braid updo with flower by Candice

side braid bridal updo by Candice

mother of the bride updo by Candice

updo/chignon by April and Candice

junior bridesmaid partial updo by April

elegant woven and braided bridal updo by Candice

me and Trecina, hard at work

Trecina applying eyelashes, while Candice, the salon owner and updo extrodinare works her magic

me, April, Trecina and Candice with our formal girls

beautiful!

Much love from the Downtown Studio salon team and all who come for their special events!

Lovely Springtime Birthday Party Themes for Girls

2013-04-29T12:59:00.000-05:00

Little Gnome via Piece of Cake Party

My little Ellie is going to be 1 soon, and she gets more confident in her walking each day! She is my one and only girl and so when I see all of these fantabulus birthday party ideas, I think they would ALL be perfect for my special, toddling baby! Babble has put together 25 lovely spring party ideas, and these are a few of my favorites.

Water Color Party via Handmade Home

Ice Cream Social via Chic Cheap Nursery

Sweet as Pie via Pizzazzerie

Make a Wish via Frog Prince Paperie

Vintage Pony, via Hostess with the Mostess

Vintage Chic via Zsa Zsa Bellagio

Inspired Interiors: Design Love Fest

2013-04-23T00:56:00.001-05:00

I discovered the most amazingly beautiful blog the other day, Design Love Fest. Bri's home, photography and outfits are adorable. Take her home for instance. Everything I am craving at the moment, style, creativity, color, neutrals, natural light is present. There is an energy that is both relaxing, yet energizing. Eclectic, mid century modern, mint, aqua, pink and white, golden, metallic accents, black and white geometric patterns, poufs and funky chairs... Shall I go on?

My Two Girls

2013-04-17T00:33:00.000-05:00

Jackie was a rescue pound puppy, we think a border collie/lab mix. I called her my little pig and sometimes Patricia when I first got her, about 11 years ago. She was 6 months old and I got her as a companion for my other healer mix dog, Simon (who ended up being adopted by a physician friend on his farm, and even saved his life.) Jackie was very sick and I had to tend to her all night long for quite a while. I thought, "THIS must be what it would be like to have a newborn!" Well, no, after having three newborns, I can honestly say she was WAY harder. When I met my husband, he was able to tame that wild beast of a puppy and that is how I knew I loved him. Even though he momentarily lost her when he dog watched her as I traveled out of state for the birth of my first nephew....

I thought I had trained her to stay off the couches, only to discover she has now adopted this chair.

Being a dog owner/companion, I always thought I would NEVER allow my kids to put her in second place. When I became pregnant with my first, we had to start to train her to not sleep in our bed. She is an old gal now, cataracts and lumps and lots of allergies and smells and old lady quirks... and it is true, she does get the back burner of attention when so many kids are under foot. But, we still love to cuddle when we can find those moments of peace. She's my little noodle chup.

DIY: How to Add Patina to a Chandelier

2013-04-05T12:55:00.000-05:00

A few months ago, I found this semi mangled chandelier on the side of the road next to the garbage. Talk about a curb side treasure! So, I did this manic U-turn, pulled into an awkward driveway and loaded it up. It also comes with those gold lampshades, but we most likely won't use them for now. What is your opinion, shades or no shades? Living in a rental, we can't put this up, besides, it is too big for our place with such low ceilings.

Our Downtown Studio salon is switching the massage and Jacuzzi room, with our large party/lounge area, and I knew this chandelier would be perfect for lighting since it is pretty dark. Pics of our gorgeous set up here! We spray painted the "candlesticks" black and got some of the vintage candle flame looking light bulbs. I used a patina-like sea foam green color and dry brushed it on for an aged look, and in some parts, did more of a watercolor wash. I am probably going to add a second patina color and then do a little bit of sanding on the "patina" to really age it. We usually don't like the bright gold, but it works in here and really shines up the rustic glam feel. And of course, I want to add strands of drippy prisms from the bottom. It will be gorgeous and I will most definitely include photos of the finished project!

It's not really work when you love what you are doing!

Finished Product! At Downtown Studio Salon's massage and spa room.

Homefront: Colorful Spring Easter Mantel

2013-03-30T16:53:00.000-05:00

There are few times a year when pastels can be made front and center, so I embrace it when I can. The mantle/ikea expedit shelf was done a few weeks ago, (shocker), but it didn't ever feel *just right*. When I brought this sweet smelling hyacinth home last night, I knew just what to do. I wrapped the flower pot in a scrap of burlap and tied it off with a pretty pink, polka -dot bow, just like how I did my mason jar craft (tutorial here).

I received this Velveteen Rabbit book as a gift when I was 7 years old. The Jesus picture came from this visit at a lovely antique shop. It appears that I like bunny rabbits. One day, I will add lambs and chicks to my Easter line up. But really, a beak mask just wouldn't be as cute as a bunny ear headband.

I used my white frame once again as a wreath holder. Makes a cute impact on an otherwise lonely wall.

Do you need a quick and easy Spring Easter wreath idea? Visit my diy tutorial here!

Easy DIY Spring Easter Egg Wreath Tutorial

2013-03-30T16:26:00.002-05:00

I have had this wintery wreath on my door since well, winter. I figured, I had better update it, but didn't have the time. First, I tucked the berries and pinecones behind the wreath. I grabbed this egg garland I already had and tied it onto the wreath with twine and craft pearls to tame the pine needles back, and then I tucked some fake flowers in there. I think it turned out really cute! It took less than 10 minutes, required absolutely zero sewing or gluing, and I can take it apart in minutes if I want to reuse the materials again.

Recycling holiday crafts and supplies is the best!

You can also take a figurine, like my adorable little bunny here, and glue or wire it down. So, Easter is tomorrow... you have *plenty* of time to do something like this!

Also, tonight we will be planting a magical Easter jellybean garden, along with many other pinterest inspired families. In the morning, lollipops or peeps should arise in their place... hopefully these beans work!

via makeit love it

via my frugal adventures

Homefront: The Nursery of Elisabeth Rose

2013-03-29T01:13:00.000-05:00

Miss 'Liss is 10 months old and I am finally getting around to posting nursery pics! This was a fun and rather simple project, full of collecting and thrifting and creating, and yet I still have more ideas. This isn't really her room. This is her corner, in my room. We are short a bedroom so she stays in our for now. There are plenty of perks in that... for now anyways. Turquoise seems to be a theme with me, even my boy's nursery was turquoise and blue. I guess I either a) really like the color or b) it's always available and since I thrift a lot, I get what I find!

Wooden chandelier is from uncommon. I draped the turquoise beads on for fun. I have finally replaced the changing table knobs with faux mercury glass ones from Hobby Lobby, so just imagine it ;) Pillows are thrifted vintage, chair was a free roadside find.

I made this rag garland, and it's about 6 feet long. Some of the fabric in there is from pajamas that my big ole pregnant belly ripped open. I kid you not. Sentimental, maybe, or just plain weird? I talk about how I made this here. I love a little touch of metallic and would like to incorporate more in this space, but for now, I hole punched gold circles out of a gift bag and hot glued them onto a white ribbon. Glittered star was a garage sale find. I totally love this project, and it was practically free and a large centerpiece for a wall.

These IKEA curtains were perfect and on sale for $4! I wish there were more. I didn't want to hang curtain rods, so I tied them up with twine. Stuffed bird is thrifted, the lamb rattle plushie and is the first official baby toy gift to Elisabeth.

This IKEA crib we bought from a friend. We sanded it down and spray painted it, because I was just *so* desperate for a white crib. Crib linens and that adorable owl are also all thrifted.

Miss Rose. This was two months ago, and she has grown several inches of fluffy hair and a tooth since!

I pulled out my 80's vintage toys! Of course, they weren't vintage when I had them as a kid! Hugga Bunch, Kermit, Miss Piggy (my sister's actually), yellow Honey Bear, white Popple, Ellaroo from the Wuzzles, Pluto, and some other little sentimental ones. The pink and ivory lambs were mine and my sister newborn gifts. (awe). And the little thumb sucking money I got the day my little brother was "born" into our family! (He was adopted from South Korea, so we had a special ceremony.) The white wicker shelf is a garage sale find.

I see you! That is the corner of our bed and Elisabeth's favorite spot to play. That is where I sit in front of the mirror to do my make-up, and she loves jumping all over me as I struggle to do my eyeliner. Fun times! Now, I simply give her some baby treats in the crib until my eyes are done.

They loves each others.

It's always puppet time. Speaking of our old toys, this was my husband's rat puppet as a kid.

And here is what we usually look like in this room. Sleepy! But having her so close makes it easy to quickly take care of her at night. So that is it. Eventually, I will get around to showing the room in its entirety, after finishing up a few other projects in here.

Linked to Everything Etsy's Crafty Girl Linky Party

February Madness

2013-03-12T23:33:00.002-05:00

It's been since Valentine's Day that I have blogged! Don't get me wrong, I have TRIED. But blogger keeps blocking my access and freezing up during my posts, then deleting them!! Grrrrrr. So, what have I been up too aside from cursing this computer? Millions of things, life has been a whirlwind! But here is the lowdown, because it is so important, of course.

I have been so dang busy, that I bought Valentines from the store (instead of hand making them) and my little guy and I worked on them together. Funny thing is, when I asked my boys what they wanted me to get, they told me I knew best. *yesss!* Wonder how long that will last? So, Star Wars for the boys and Cinderella for the girls it was.

Note, all of the laundry piles, and mega kitchen clean up going on back there. Neglecting duties due to being crazy busy. At one point, we even slept on the couches because of the piles of nearly folded laundry on the bed.

Been busy mugging on this little bit for a while. She is *this close* to walking, just turned 10 months. She absolutely loves hanging upside down, growing out of her clothes and eating. Her one, bottom tooth, blonde fauxhawk and rosy cheeks are adorable.

Been busy doing face painting and working (and playing) at the salon and other events. It's usually the prepwork (like that gingerbread house there) that destroys the house and my sleep cycle!

We finally pulled out this alien head kit. The boys had fun making it and painting it. The hubs and I painted the details in at the end.

Caleb being a most excellent model.

I have been failing at the homework department, so Isaac had to help me remember to sign it :) So... what all have you been up to?

Lovely Flower Crown Inspiration

2013-02-14T23:24:00.000-06:00

via

Did you all have a happy Valentine's Day? Are you waiting until the weekend to go out with your honey? With your girls? Lounge around at home? It doesn't matter, you can still get prettified by putting some flowers in your hair!

The Beauty Department has a step by step photo tutorial on how to pin flowers in your hair so that they will stay. Just use hair pins to push through the middle of the flower!

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To make a gorgeous flower crown, you can use florist's tape to hold them together using long stems or a wire. An excellent step by step tutorial can be found here on A Practical Wedding.

I love this simple, understated look. Beautiful for a wedding, Renaissance fair, special event, or just for fun. It sits back on the head so as to not overwhelm the face.

But if you are going for an all out look, Style Noted has some excellent ideas on how to wear flower crowns. Hair that has a soft, natural texture really tends to compliment this lovely accessory. Have you ever worn a flower crown, or would you ever? I would love to hear about it! I plan on wearing a lovely pink rose this weekend :)

Personal Style: Photo Booth Fun and Beauty Tutorials

2013-02-13T02:00:00.001-06:00

Did you notice the lip props in my Valentine decorating post? Last week, our salon participated in a fun event with a Candyland theme. I spent hours working on the props, and these lips were a fun part of the photo booth section. They work perfect for Valentine's Day too!

I did a slight smoky eye and a slight victory roll bang (more exaggerated tutorial here) or a suicide roll tutorial here), with a rather messy and lopsided, loose topknot. I do mine differently with no teasing and much faster than most tutorials, but this is a simple and short one. It took about 45 seconds to do my hair, but my husband gave me lots of compliments :)

She just turned 9 months and loves make-up and dressing up already!

smoky cat eye make tutorial via best makeup review

Another fun style to try is this pretty and easy and pretty Sweetheart Braid tutorial by Hairdresser on Fire. The braid is perfect for Valentine's Day! Add a jeweled hair comb or fresh flower for a little bit of romance. Let me know if you try any of these styles!