Project AZ Runway

June Favorite Beauty Products (Burts Bees, NYX, Clinique, Boots Mango Sugar Scrub)

2012-07-02T13:00:00.002-07:00

Here are my favorite beauty products for the month of June.

1) Burts Bees Replenishing Body Bar - so refreshing and exfoliating! I've recently switched to using bath soaps instead of gels and am loving it.

2) NYX Jumbo Pencil in Milk - classic base I use for my eyeshadows. A must have make-up item in my stash.

3) Clinique Blush in Breathless Berry - I am loving the summery rosy color in this blush that I received in one of their bonus giveaway bonus bags. Perfect for the season!

4) Everyday Shea Shea butter shampoo and body wash - I bought this as an all-natural shampoo for my baby but I ended up using it almost everyday as well! I love the refreshing clean feeling it gives me (and the fact that it uses all natural ingredients and no harmful chemicals)!

5) Boots Mango Extracts Sugar Scrub - I received this as a gift from a friend and have used it almost every other day as a exfoliator and body scrub. It is super moisturizing on my skin and leaves my skin feeling very rich and conditioned!

6) Burts Bees Beexwax Lip Balm - I have been using this everyday before bed as a conditioner and love the feeling it gives my lips!

I've mainly been staying in this month taking care of myself and my newborn so haven't really gotten a chance to shop or try any new products. Definitely next month though!

Natural and organic beauty and household products

2012-05-21T14:47:00.003-07:00

With a baby on the way (anyday now!), I've been doing a lot of research lately on natural and organic beauty and household products and what products and chemicals NOT to expose a baby to. I found a TON of information on ordinary beauty and household products and the harmful chemical ingredients in the products that companies fail to make us aware of. Long story short, I now am obsessed with finding natural and organic beauty and household products! It's no wonder that Jessica Alba, after becoming a mother of 2 daughters, decided to start a whole company, The Honest Company, dedicated to making products that are safe, natural, and non-toxic for families!

Here are some of my top picks after ALL the research I've done(and the most affordable I've found).

Natural and organic beauty and household products:

1) Method soaps (hand soaps, gels) and household cleaners: naturally-derived, biodegradable, and safe and non-toxic. (not sure if it's 100% organic but I think it's still pretty natural).

2) Episencial SPF 35 sunscreen for baby and adults: organic, green, and free from all the bad toxic chemicals and ingredients bad for our health. Perfect for face and body!

3) Seventh Generation dishwashing liquid and soap (free and clear): natural, plant-derived cleaners, non-toxic, free of dyes and synthetic fragrances, biodegradable and green formula.

4) Everyday Shea Shea butter shampoo and shower gel: (sold at Whole foods): organic formula containing all natural oils, no harsh chemicals, non-toxic, SLS and fragrance free. Great for baby or adults! (doubles as a shampoo and shower gel in one--gots to love that!)

5) All free and clear detergent: not necessarily an organic product but one that is pretty natural compared to the other detergents, free of dyes and perfumes (which is key when washing baby clothe)--figured I'd use this for laundry for our whole family.

6) Bounce free and clear: again not an organic product but free from dyes and scented perfumes and other bad chemicals.

7) Toms of Maine Clean & Gentle natural toothpaste: natural, fragrance, color, preservative/SLS free! Affordable-always a plus.
*********************************************************************************
These are just a couple of my most recent picks and switches that I've made in my household that were affordable enough for me. If you want more information on harmful chemicals and products to check out to see what ingredients they contain, the following websites are ones I've been following RELIGIOUSLY and have helped me out a lot in terms of finding new natural and organic beauty and household products:

Good Guide - find safe, healthy, green & ethical products based on scientific ratings
Skin Deep Cosmetics Database - what's really in your makeup and beauty care products? and are they bad for you?

My tips on what chemicals to avoid in your products:
1) In general, you want to avoid the following ingredients in your products (which are mostly toxic or cancer causing and bad for your health):

Butyl Acetate

Butylated Hydroxytoluene

Coal Tar

Cocamide/Lauramide DEA

Diazolidinyl Urea

Ethyl Acetate

Formaldehyde

Fragrance

Parabens

Petrolatum

Phthalates

Propylene Glycol

Sodium Laureth/Sodium Laurel Sulfate

Talc

Toluene

Triethanolamine (TEA)

2) Use fewer products on your face and body (in general).

3) Avoid sunscreen that contain oxybenzone, *instead look for zinc and titanium dioxide which are higher quality ingredients. Also, recent research shows that you should avoid sunscreen that contain vitamin A (retinyl palmitate or retinol).

4) In choosing makeup products, mineral makeup is always safer than powder or gel form. I don't wear makeup everyday but if you do, I would recommend checking out more natural and healthier makeup for your face from the following sites:

100% Pure

Josie Maran Cosmetics

Orglamix

*I'm sure there are many others, theses are just the ones I've found and really like their products. I haven't purchased any yet but I want to do so maybe in the near future.

5) Avoid fragrances - candles, oils, perfume (YES I know--we all love this stuff), but the less exposure to them, the better it is for our overall health. There are more natural fragrance oils if you prefer.

6) Bar soaps --- especially SHEA butter, natural coconut or almond butter soap is better than body washes or any gel type soap that lathers. (most shower gels contain SLS in them that helps them lather). Currently I'm using Dove sensitive skin bar soap but I love trying new bar soaps, especially naturally scented ones!

DISCLAIMER:

I'm sure regular, generic products and brands are fine to use on an everyday basis. However, the chance of exposure to these toxic and harmful chemicals are high if you're exposed to a certain amount of these chemicals in your daily living, or rather, if the combination of all the toxic chemicals you use on an everyday basis adds up to be over a certain amount--then there's a risk. Of course, FDA approved products will not contain such a high amount, otherwise the product will not pass. I myself, being more educated on this issue now, just prefer more natural and organic beauty and household products. Everyone has their own opinion and can make their own choices. I do advice you to do the research first.

I'm guessing though that a majority of the US population (80% or higher), especially the younger generation of kids, teens, and students, are unaware and oblivious to the products they use and like me, prefer whatever is cheap and economical. So please do the research first.

May fashion (H&M, Forever 21, Hautelook)

2012-05-12T15:14:00.001-07:00

May fashion picks this month from H&M, Forever 21, and Hautelook...just deals and steals I found. Usually I only buy stuff when it's on sale or super cheap (never full price)...to save $$. The H&M deals are still good now so if you want you can still grab the deal while it lasts! (Mother's day weekend)

H&M shirts and blouses (only $5 each!)--> super cheap! so I had to get 2. One on left I bought in the royal blue color and one on the right in yellow (not green as pictured). They're super flowy and roomy...great for pregnancy/post-pregnancy and for summer!

Forever 21 feather earrings ($3) --> also super cheap! Actually, husband picked these out for me and I've been loving them and wearing them a lot this month.

Hautelook Anna shoes/sandals (only $12 each!) --> yes they're called Anna shoes! (lol...same as my name) I bought 2 pairs of them. One in purple and one in polkadot red and white. (similar to the pic featured on the right, but not that color)

H&M also had bikini pieces (tops and bottoms) that were only $5 each! I couldn't believe it. Such a good deal...I didn't buy any though since this post-pregnancy body will probably take some adjusting to but maybe for next summer? =)

May Favorite Beauty Products (Burt's Bees, Garnier, Aveeno, Maybelline, Estee Lauder, etc.)

2012-05-10T20:30:00.003-07:00

Here are my may favorite beauty products that I am loving for spring/summer (in no particular order):

Burt's Bees Radiance Facial Cleanser (with royal jelly)
Love this cleanser! I recently switched to this cleanser because it's more natural and free of parabens and chemicals and I have very sensitive skin. Have used it for a couple of days and so far I like it a lot. It's moisturizing and a very light foaming cleanser...doesn't dry out my skin like some other harsher cleansers. Since it's more natural as well, it's probably better for my skin than other cleansers. (I was using the Cetaphil normal to dry skin cleanser before--but realized that there's a lot of chemicals in it that are bad for your skin so thus I switched to this one) =)

Garnier Shampoo and Conditioner Pure Clean
I love this shampoo!I recently switched from my Herbal Essence (blue bottle) to this shampoo since this is more natural and free of parabens and unnecessary chemicals. I love the way it shampoos and conditions my hair and it smells very fresh and clean!

Aveeno Baby Daily Moisture Lotion
More natural than other body lotions and free of most chemicals and parabens since it's intended for a baby's sensitive skin. I find it works perfectly on adult skin as well, especially since I have dry sensitive skin. Love this product!

Paul Mitchell Super Skinny Serum
Since I use a shampoo and conditioner in one, this is perfect for a light conditioning after I come out of the shower. Gel-like, I work a small amount into my hair and no need to blow dry. Great for summer and everyday use when I'm on the go! Smells good too. May substitute a generic alternative: GVP smoothing serum.

L'Occitane lip balm
Very moisturizing and hydrating and very natural (chemical free) ingredients!

Maybelline Chai Latte Quad
Love this quad--have been using it often for an everyday neutral look for daytime.

Estee Lauder SunBlush Illuminator
LOVE LOVE LOVE this product! Gives you a coral, sun-kissed peachy blush/glow effect! I find it perfect for spring/summer for either daytime or nighttime.

Lately I've been obsessing over beauty and makeup products that are free of harsh chemicals, parabens, and overall more healthy and good for your body and skin. If you have any other recommendations, please let me know. =)

Baby registry (ideas and tips): What to register for and buy

2012-04-12T09:41:00.013-07:00

Here are some baby registry ideas and tips on what to register for and buy for expecting mothers. There are so many items out there in baby stores such as Babies are Us and Buy Buy Baby that it is easy to get overwhelmed. What I did, I separated out the things I need and the things I want or would be nice to have from the things that are unnecessary. I am NOT an expert at this but based on my experience and advice from others, here are my baby registry recommendations.

Baby registry: Where to register?

1) Babies are us baby registry or Buy Buy Baby baby registry are good as they provide you with many choices for baby items. They give you a gift bag with little goodies when you register and a completion discount of 15% off items (at Babies are Us).
2) Target or Walmart is a good place to register as it is usually accessible to your guests. It is also a great place to buy baby registry and everyday necessities (and cheaper too!), but does not give you as good of a selection as Babies are us or Buy Buy Baby. They give you a completion discount of 10%.
3) Amazon.com. I highly recommend registering here! Lots of their items are cheaper than anywhere else and we had a really good experience baby registry experience experience with them. A lot of our friends ended up buying our presents from here and shipped directly to our house--it was easy, convenient, and much cheaper--plus you get free 365 day returns on Amazon.com baby items. (make sure to save the packaging receipt) They give you a completion discount of 10%.
*completion discount: Whatever items are left on your registry at the end that no-one buys for you, you get a completion discount on them. The completion discount can only be applied one time towards your total purchase order.

Baby registry: What to register for and buy?

1) Baby Carseat (either the infant carrier kind or a convertible carseat). This is a must have item and you cannot go without it. Buy a GOOD QUALITY carseat as its for your baby's safety. There are plenty of websites and research on what is the best kind of car-seat, such as Baby Gaga. I recommend Graco and Chicco carseats, as they are the most popular and high quality in brand. For convertible carseats, Britax marathon and Recaro are decent quality brands.

2) Crib mattress. Buy a GOOD QUALITY crib mattress as this is what your baby will be sleeping on for a very long time (well into their toddler years). Check out Buying a Mattress for your Baby's Crib for good tips and suggestions.

3) Stroller. Another must have item is to invest in a stroller--more useful for babies that are more than 3 months old. These can get very pricy so it really depends on your budget. I recommend Mcclaren (brand we got), Chicco, or Bumbleride for medium-priced strollers. (some strollers range up to $1000 or $2000!)

4) Baby bottles. Regardless if you breastfeed or not, bottles are a must have. Babies usually will prefer certain bottles over others so don't go crazy registering or investing in one brand bottle. Get BPA free bottles. Start with a few (4 or 5) different brands to test and try out and see what your baby prefers once he/she is born.

5) Breast Pump. Medela (the best brand). Most trusted hospital brand and the best breast pump out there by far. That said, it is very pricy. Most hospitals will let you rent out breast-pumps for the first month or so, so there's no need to invest in one right away, especially since you don't know if you'll be breastfeeding or not. Double electric pumps and recommended such as the Medela Pump in Style or the Freestyle pump.

6) Baby bath tub. For those, oh so lovely bath moments. We got the Fisher Price Whale of Tub and love the design and usefulness of it. A regular one will do, no need to invest in a Baby Spa one (as bathing is usually not a "spa" moment for baby). Keep in mind that babies will grow so get one that they can use as a baby and grow into as a toddler.

7) Pacifiers. Get BPA free pacifiers and don't go crazy registering/buying a lot of them. Some babies will take them some will not. The kind they give you in the hospital are the soothie kinds (babies like them but then tend to fall out easily). I recommend the gumdrop kind, which I've heard are very similar to the soothies, but with a rounded base, and babies usually will take them better than other ones.

8) Baby carrier/sling. Ergo brand is better than Baby Bjorn I've heard as it is less hard on your back. Also, a sling or moby wrap is also good I've heard when they're infants.

9) Bottle brush. I've heard the skinny ones are best to get into the tight spaces of bottle nipples.

10) A mild, gentle, preferably fragrance free baby shampoo and lotion!

11) Diaper rash creme and ointment. Desitin, aquafor, petroleum jelly are rash cremes that tend to work well I've heard.

12) Diaper and wipes. Many brands, many choices. I've heard pampers brand (for disposable diapers) and huggies brand (or disposable wipes) are the best in terms of quality. There are also services, such as The Honest Company, that will send you diapers and wipes for a per month fee (their diapers and wipes are all natural and eco-friendly as well).
*I would also HIGHLY recommend if you're registering for diapers and wipes to have a diaper/wipes raffle at your bridal shower where if they bring any diapers or wipes, their name gets put into a raffle for a prize. You get TONS of diapers and wipes that way so you can stock up for those first couple of months for baby.

13) A nice diaper bag for yourself.

14) Baby care kit (with nail clippers, bulb syringes, thermometer, etc). A good nail clipper is essential since babies nails grow so fast!

15) Portable crib/play pen. I recommend this for traveling to grandparents or friends houses and also to put on in your bedroom or downstairs when baby is napping or sleeping. We got one and ended up putting it in our room since we've heard babies usually prefer to sleep in the same room as mom and day the first month or two.

16) Baby monitor. The audio kind works just fine. Sony's BabyCall got really good reviews on Amazon.com. The more high quality luxury ones are the video kind or ones that connect to your phone.

17) Swaddling blankets with velcro or zipper. We didn't register for these but might buy some since we've heard these are good for babies when they're sleeping. I've heard the kind with the velcro and zipper saves time and heartache if you're insecure about physically wrapping your baby with a swaddle blanket.

18) Classical music CDs and music CDs for babies. Amazon.com has a bunch of mp3s for download and you can pretty much buy CDs for babies in any baby store as well.

19) Glider and Rocker Chair. This is one of those "nice to have items" that if you can slurge on it, I would say it's totally worth it. Good for rocking/feeding baby. We got ours at babies are us on clearance price plus an extra 15% off our completion registry so it was a really, REALLY GOOD deal! We absolutely love it and will definitely be a staple chair piece we can use for years and years to come.

20) Baby Crib. A standard baby crib will do. There are also convertible cribs that turn into a toddler bed, day bed, and full size bed. We ended up getting a delta convertible crib, which we DO NOT RECOMMEND. Also, do not get a DROP SIDE CRIB as these are unsafe for babies and have been discontinued.

Baby registry: What NOT to register for

1) Clothes. You will get lots of clothes from people regardless if you register or not, so its not necessary to register for these. Also, you can buy very CHEAP clothes off season when they have sales. We hauled a bunch of clothes at Babies are Us, Gymboree, and other baby clothing stores for under $3 a shirt/pants when they were on clearance!

2) Bottle/wipes warmer. Not necessary. Some parents swear by it but if you just run a bottle under hot water or if you put a bottle in some boiling water for 30 seconds or a minute, it will warm up your bottles just fine. NEVER microwave bottles!

3) Diaper pail/genie. Some parents swear by it but I've heard that it doesn't work as well and becomes ineffective after a while. They fail to mask the oder and even so if they do in the beginning, when you have to take it out of the pail/genie itself---the oder will be so strong regardless. Honestly, you're going to want to dump it out after a day or so anyway so a regular garbage can is just fine. You can also put the diapers in a separate plastic poop bag before you throw it out in the garbage can to mask oder just as effective.

4) Bouncy seat, swing, playmat. I DID register for these but ended up buying them off of craig's list instead for 1/2 the price in very good condition so I would always recommend checking your local craig's list first. Also, friends who have had babies might be willing to lend them or give them to you since babies only use these for the first 3-6 months (then they get too heavy for them).

5) Blankets, burp cloths, bibs. Not sure if you need to register for these as people will usually give them to you regardless if you do or not.

6) Toys. Babies don't need to many toys. If you do register for them, I would recommend getting rattle toys or chew toys for baby when they're a bit older.

7) Crib mobile. They are so cute but not sure if it's really necessary to register for them. We DID register and get a cute crib mobile but most likely could have gone without one.

8) Baby detergent. Not sure if this is really necessary. Some babies' skin are more sensitive than others while some do just fine with their clothes washed in regular detergent. I've heard the All free brand works just as well if you're looking to save and not buy a separate detergent for your baby.

9) Crib bedding sets. Even though their so cute and pretty, most crib betting sets are un-necessary and its more for the parents than it is actually for the baby. They usually come with a bumper, quilt, window treatment, and diaper pail (which all are pretty useless). Bumpers and quilts are not safe and NOT recommended to be put in baby's crib. You're better off buying separate sheets and blankets for baby (much cheaper too!).

That's pretty much all I can think of for now. Hope that this list is helpful and NOT overwhelming. Good luck mommies! =)

Spring 2012 fashion and accessories: Dolce & Gabbana, Coach, Christian Dior

2012-03-21T19:45:00.003-07:00

For Spring 2012 fashion and accessories, my picks are Dolce & Gabbana, Coach, Christian Dior...let there be no substitutes when it comes to the quality of name brand clothing, items, and accessories. However, for the majority of us who do not make $200+ grand a year, let there be substitutes please! Here are some items I found that caught my eye in a magazine and some wearable, and more affordable substitutes to the products that might be more appealing.

1) Dolce and Gabbana Bouquet Makeup Quad spring 2012 makeup accessories (right)...bold but such pretty colors! My Substsitute: Urban Decay Deluxe Shadow Box ($38) or Urban Decay Mariposa Shadow Box ($39). I own the Mariposa quad myself and absolutely love the colors for a night out or even a glamorous event (not that I go to many), such as a wedding or banquet.

2) Coach Beige Leather Bag ($298) spring 2012 fashion bag (left). My Substitute: Faux Leather Forever 21 Beige Handbag ($20). I cannot justify spending $300 on another coach bag so I found this cute forever 21 bag on their website that looks very similar. I really like the beige/tan color for spring.

3) Christian Dior Silk Chiffon Beige Runway Gown (left) spring 2012 fashion dress. My substitute: H&M lace dress ($30). I think this would be such a cute Easter outfit for church with some pearl earrings and heels. Again, loving the beige/tan color for spring.

Hope you like my picks for spring 2012.

March favorites.

2012-03-20T21:06:00.012-07:00

My latest march favorites and obsessions. shopping. cute baby items and clothes. decorating projects. etc. (listed in no particular order)

1) The weather! (70's and 80's+ degrees) can't complain.

2) Draw something app. too addicting.

3) Cute baby items. These hello kitty hair-clips are super cute and they were only $1! I couldn't resist.

4) Shopping off-season for baby clothes. I've been buying TONS of winter clothes (for next year) and 6-9 months clothes for baby for super cheap prices! ($1-$3 for shirts and $2-$5 for pants)

5) Decorating & projects. I put up the clouds that my friends made for my baby shower in the baby room and super cute wall decor that we also got as a gift from a friend--thought the colors were perfect and the clouds really lifted up the whole vibe of the room. :)

Closet mini-project: Also exchanged the normal light string in the closet with an added a lace string (with rhinestones on them) as well as a MONKEY keychain for the pull down end to go with the whole animal theme room...so girlie. hehe. love it!

6) More shopping. Buying more clothes fit for the hot spring weather. Mainly dresses (non-maternity) but with stretchy cotton-knit fabric. word of advice: when you're pregnant do not buy maternity clothes as they are twice as expensive...but rather look for dresses and shirts that are loose and stretchy and you get your money's worth cause you can also wear them after your pregnancy.

7) Cleaning. spring cleaning. love it when the weather gets nice and I can put away all my fall/winter boots and clothes and pack them away for the next year.

8) Shiseido SPF 38 moisturizer and face creme. I've been loving this product especially since the weather is warm and days are sunny and I need extra SPF protection on my face. It does not make my face feel oily but rather very moisturized. Highly recommend--a bit on the pricy side though but worth it.

9) Protein shakes. Been enjoying Special K's high protein chocolate flavor shake since my doctor says I don't get enough protein and iron in my diet and is worried that baby is underweight. Tastes delicious and just like chocolate milk!

10) Berries and fruit. Strawberries, blueberries, blackberries, raspberries, grapes, apples, and oranges. I could finish an entire bowl of just fruit in minutes. More fruit please!

That pretty much sums up my March favorites and obsessions, and what I've been up to. Cannot believe I'm almost 30 weeks pregnant and that our baby will be coming so soon! Am I ever going to be fully ever ready to be a mommy? Most likely not but I'll sure have to be once she arrives. =)

Maternity. Fashion.

2012-03-13T23:12:00.003-07:00

Here are some of my top picks for my maternity fashion and clothes:

Cardigans. loose or stretchy shirts blouses. YOGA PANTS. dark colors. no horizontal stripes. long shirts. STRETCHY COTTON KNIT TANK TOPS. comfortable shoes. maternity pants with the stretchy elastics. Dress in layers always.

Tip of advice: do NOT purchase maternity specific clothing or maternity fashion clothes from maternity websites, as they are twice as expensive as regular clothes. Find loose stretchy clothing and fashion pieces that works for you and fits your personal maternity style and use them for your maternity clothes.

These are my go-to suggestions on staying comfortable throughout my pregnancy and what has worked for me. I'm in my 3rd trimester now and excited but also anxious at the same time. Glad that spring is here and the weather is warmer! yippeeeeee ^_^

Victoria Secret spend $75 get a free tote bag!

2012-03-01T10:48:00.002-08:00

Free Victoria's Secret PINK tote bag when you spend $75 (zips up at the top)

At the mall yesterday, I ran across Victoria's Secret spend $75 get a free beach tote bag! I'm not a huge Victoria Secret person but I thought it was a pretty good deal, especially since the tote itself is supposedly advertized for $85 (probably not worth that much). I also ran across this CUTE purple lined bag for only $30 which includes some of their scented sprays and lotions...though it was an awesome deal and a such a cute little gift package too! Thought I would just share this deal in case you're interested. Get it while supplies last! =)

How to make a headband holder (DIY project)

2012-02-27T22:53:00.009-08:00

A DIY project on how I made my own headband holder/organizer (see picture below).

How I made this:

1) Stack up 3 rolls of mega tissue paper.
2) Pick out your favorite fabric from fabric store (making sure the length and width is enough to cover the entire 3 stacks of tissue paper.
3) Wrap the fabric around the tissue paper (length wise), then when you get to the top and bottom--fold the fabric into the tissue paper holes at the top and bottom.
4) Secure top and bottom with pins and voila! You now have a beautiful decoration for any dresser or bathroom to put all your headbands in.

I also took some pictures and thought I would show you guys how I organize my bathroom (since I'm such a neatfreak) and like things in its place.

My storage tips:
1) For storing make-up brushes--I put rice at the bottom of the cup so the brushes can stand upright and it's easy access to them when I need them.
2) Bamboo organizers help keep the counter neat and tidy---got them from "The Container Store" (love that store!). Mainly I store toiletries, cotton balls, and cutips in the containers for easy access.
3) I store my makeup in one neat compartmentalized drawer (got from Walmart I believe) on the storage shelf---easy access.
4) I found ideas and inspiration for what works for me in terms of convenience because that is KEY for my bathroom.

Hope this give you guys ideas and inspiration for your bathroom and organization!

DIY baby nursery decorations

2012-02-12T12:31:00.009-08:00

This is my DIY decoration project for my baby nursery: I took a trip to Hobby Lobby recently and found these super cute little animal figures! They were not hanging on anything but I thought it would be so cute for the baby room and I HAD TO HAVE THEM! So I decided to make my own wall decor. Here's what I did and some simple and easy tips you can do to make your own crafty projects at home.

First of course...the cute little animals (already painted) that I found at hobby lobby were my inspiration. (They were only $.79 cents each!)

How cute are these animals!?!?!

Then I found this horizontal wood wall canvas thing---they were 1/2 off the original price of $6 so I got them for around $3 each. I decided I would paint it the color I want and then glue my animals on it horizontally...

Onto the painting! Had to buy brushes and paint--costing me around $5 total...(not bad!)

I wanted the colors to specifically match my curtains and the room theme of pink and yellow. I'm not a huge fan of green but decided that the background should be baby green color since they are farm animals after all...I did however still want to incorporate pink so painted the edges baby pink...=)

Then I waited for the paint to dry before super gluing the the animals onto the canvas. (p.s. The super gluing part was NOT my favorite part...ended up getting glue all over my hands and had to scrub and use nail polish to get it off...kinda a pain)

Here's the end result and how it turned out!


A picture of it in the room with matching curtains and theme

I'm probably going to end up hanging it on the wall somewhere but here's an idea of what it looks like with the matching theme/colors of the room. Hope this is helpful and gives you an idea of how fun and easy making your own wall decor/home projects can be!

p.s. It ended up costing me around $20 total with all the materials I bought...I think it was worth it! =)

Baby nursery project

2012-01-31T12:20:00.004-08:00

Hello! So I know I haven't updated my blog in quite a while---almost forgot its existence! This past winter's been pretty busy and hectic but finally feel like it's calming down more.

So the BIG news is that I found out I am pregnant last October and since then have been busy planning and more so just taking care of myself...LOL. Hubby and I are very excited and thrilled! We are having a baby girl! {*_*}

My project nursery has gone into full effect recently this year and I'm excited to share with you all the things that I have done and will be doing with it! Sewing, making curtains, painting, etc. . . I'll try to update more as I go but for now just some small updates we've done with it....

1) We've cleaned out the room entirely and got rid of all our old storage stuff, junk we had, etc....donated a TON of stuff, emptied out both closets and storage space, and took apart the guest bed and removed ALL furniture.

2) I picked out the color theme and chose fabric to make curtains for the room. Started doing that and finished it this past week.

3) Also started drafting out where I would like to place everything in the room (crib, armchair, changing table, dresser, etc...).

4) Lastly, I put together a little table/dresser---covered an old dresser with fabric I had left over and bought a lamp from IKEA and placed other cute little things on it...including a card that my best friend designed and made...love it! (pictures below)

That's pretty much all I've done with the room so far. I try not to feel restricted by any particular theme but find things I like and colors that go well together that will match the overall tone of the nursery I envision. Hopefully it will come out alright in the end. =)

Food Craze: How to cook the best steak, ordering cereal online, chocolate chip muffin bread, & more!

2011-09-30T11:15:00.002-07:00

I've recently been experimenting with my George foreman grill and learned how to cook really GOOD steak on it. Just like chicken---season with kosher salt, pepper, and olive oil on both sides then put it under the george foreman 2-sided grill for about 5-6 minutes and then let it rest for 5 minutes...then DONE! Voila...yummy delicious beef steak cooked perfectly. Drizzle with some tomato sauce or BBQ sauce to your liking. Hope you try it! Good luck. =)

On another note, Truman and I got into ordering our cereal online!!! LOL---through amazon.com. Supposedly, you save $$ that way and no more frantic trips to the grocery store when we're out of cereal because it will ship to you house every month, 2 months, or 3 months (or more...) depending on when you schedule it. It came this past week in a nicely packaged box with free shipping and no CRUSHED cereal yet! (we were a little worried about that) We ordered our favs: cinnamon toast crunch, honey nut cheerios, and Reeses pieces. If you're looking to save time and money! I would recommend it as well. =)

I love fall---and baking in the fall is perfect! Chocolate chip pumpkin muffins turned into a brownie! ...with powdered sugar on top. YUM.

To top if all off! We had the BEST food at my friend Sharon's wedding recently. . . Italian beef and chicken combination! Also, their dessert bar was insane! I must have eaten 4 or 5 of the eclaires and uncountless chocolate covered strawberries!!! (they were so good) LOL, even took an entire plate of dessert and food home to go....LOL.

Bon appetite!

Hemming pants and dresses

2011-09-23T13:11:00.003-07:00

I <3 fall! The weather has been BEAUTIFUL and the season is so inspiring! LOL. I've haven't been sewing for a WHILE but I'm gonna pick it back up again soon. Starting with all my "hubby" projects. Truman asked me to alter a bunch of his pants, jeans, shorts, buttons on t-shirts and pants that fall off, etc....here's to my pile of his projects. I'll be working on them this weekend. =)

Also gonna work on altering a bridesmaids dress for my girl Sharon's wedding this weekend! EXCITING! Congrats to the happy couple. For the bridesmaid dress, I have to take apart the waist, re-stitch, and hem the bottom of the bubble dress because it's too long. Here's what it looks like.

YAY to fall and new projects!

On another note, got to hang out this week with some adorable kids--Hope and Hosea and film a dance video with them. HAHA! It was hilarious...I tried to get them to follow a simple dance/workout routine for kids and they were doing great! However, we turned on the video camera and I think they got nervous and maybe tired...lol. It didn't turn out as we expected but it was SO CUTE. Watch the video here: Dance exercises for kids (Hope and Hosea dancing)

Have a great weekend! =)

Photoshoot

2011-08-31T12:28:00.004-07:00

Hubby and I definitely had a photo-shoot moment a friend's bridal shower this past summer. Haha...some funny pics! (we made our own photo booth moment) Thanks to my girl Kam that took the pics! =)

The Wit Roof and the Elysian Hotel, Chicago

2011-08-29T05:33:00.002-07:00

This weekend was an eventful weekend for sure! But it was the best! Hung out with friends at the Wit hotel rooftop on Friday night and dancing afterwards, finish off the night with McDonalds of course! =) (I definitely recommend the Lobster Corn Dog at the Witt hotel for the sampler tray--sounds eh...but it is spectacular!) Pics of my nails (my design), outfit, and random pics of the night.

Yum! The food was really good! Thank you Rolo & Jarb! ;)

Beautiful was the rooftop view and weather that night!

Ladies with rings! Sorry boys, we're taken. ;)

Twas an epic night! =)

Sunday went to a beautiful wedding at the Elysian hotel where two of our very good friends tied the knot! <3 Pics of our outfit and of the day.

Our first foodtruck experience in the city! (frozen yogurt) =)

We got to the wedding early and discovered this gem on a nearby street and I just had to check it out!

Maid of honor of the wedding and best man (below) haha....and the cutest dog Jordan (who was part of the wedding too..haha)! =)

Truman's steak (the best he's had in a LONG time he says--cooked perfectly!) and my halibut (melts in your mouth so good!)

Congrats Lee & Jenny! <3

Kelly and Katie shoes!

2011-08-22T14:08:00.002-07:00

I have not been this excited for a new pair of shoes in a LONG time! So I just had to blog about them.

For those of you who do not know me, I DO NOT usually wear heals (I just don't do well with heals). That being said, as soon as I tried this pair on at DSW, I just had to get it. It was literally a steal too!

I really like the brand Kelly and Katie--because they're heals are always super comfortable (compared to others I've tried)--great for events, night outs, and weddings!

It was on sale for $20 and I had a $5 birthday coupon (gotta love coupons!). So total, I paid $15 for these shoes that originally cost $80! I can't wait to wear them (course bringing a pair of flats when I do just in case I fall). ;)

Check them out at DSW (I was there Saturday and they still had a lot of pairs of these)!

August photoshoot

2011-08-14T20:05:00.005-07:00

Beautiful days are like this...

...a quiet stroll in the park and really enjoying the moment with someone you love. <3

Some random pictures and my outfit post today...

My latest conviction:

If there's something you want to do in your life, do it now and do not regret it...because you never know when your life will end.

A wall of spices @ Seven on Heaven!

My sweetie and my favorite dish (below):

Grilled Andouilli Sausage on Sweet Potato Polenta!!! Soooooooooo savory and delicious--you WILL NOT BE DISAPPOINTED with this dish--trust me!

(above) Grilled Chicken with Jimmy's Olive Salad--also a winner on their menu in terms of savory taste.

Thunderstorms and earth tone inspirations

2011-08-09T20:52:00.001-07:00

There has been a lot of lightening, thunder, and storms in the past week. A couple really bad ones...Truman actually was able to capture a picture of lightening from our window! mad props.

(that night I remember the lightening was blazing mad...lol...and first thing we did...busted out the camera...haha)

I got a pretty bamboo plant from work...it's suppose to be easy to take care of, and NO sunlight needed!...mmm let's see how it goes....(p.s. plants do not grow well in our house...since we do not have direct sunlight)

Guess you can say my nail color is inspired by the the "earthy-ness" lately...

twas a party favor and i thought the colors matched really well with the plant!

Hope your week is awesome!

A day at Millennium Park and Buckingham fountain in Chicago

2011-08-08T00:35:00.003-07:00

I can't believe summer is almost over...it has been a good summer! Realizing how much I do love the city of Chicago---thought we live in the burbs---it is just a short drive away.

We took pictures of bees...u can see we had fun with them. =)

(above)--this one's my favorite.

They had a glass window with original sewing machines from the 1700's--an original singer sewing machine! I thought it was pretty cool...

Lovely gardens in Chicago

The Buckingham fountain in Chicago (below)

We finished off the day with the Dance in the Park event (Grant Park)! Free dancing and live music! YES please. =)

Beautiful is the city of Chicago

I realize I've been away from posting for some time--but now that project runway is back on...haha i'm very inspired and can't wait to start sewing and creating new pieces! more to come soon...

Our LA trip and photoshoot moments

2011-04-08T12:04:00.003-07:00

Got back from LA last week and felt sooooooo tired and restless at the same time! Hubby and I were able to take some great pics on our new camera, and did some photoshoots with friends. (most of them here are taken courtesy of our friends Judy and Fred. . . thanks guys!) It was an amazing time!

Tandem Bikes are awesome!!!

Beautiful Sunset at Manhattan Beach (pictures taken by Truman)

At LACMA (a definite must see place in LA if you're there! Great for pictures)

New DSLR camera

2011-03-21T12:59:00.002-07:00

We finally came to terms with buying a DSLR camera! It's awesome! I am loving the photo effects and the pictures and how they're turning out. Here are a highlight a few of my favorite pics recently taken. (some by me, some by Truman. . .)

I'm still in the process of playing and getting adjusted to it so the photos are probably not the best quality they can be but so far it's pretty cool. If you like taking pictures and have the time, I would definitely recommend buying a DSLR. The extent of my knowledge is that we got a SONY dslr that has the capability of taking videos that auto-focuses. Definitely not the most high quality dslr's out there, but the photo effects for all dslr cameras are similar. Most of these are random pictures from this past week/weekend.

Off to LA this weekend! Cannot wait! Looking forward to some sun and some good food! ;)

Anniversary

2011-03-15T00:54:00.002-07:00

I know I haven't posted in a while but honestly, I haven't had time to work on ANY projects. =/ Mostly just altering some of the clothe I already have and shopping for new clothes. . . as wedding season comes up. . .

A while ago, hubby & I celebrated our Valentine's Day and our 4-year "engagement-anniversary" by re-visiting the place where he proposed, right by the ice arena in millennium park. Twas a cold night just like when we got engaged. Had dinner at the Cheesecake Factory in Chicago. . . <3 <3 <3 cheesecake factory! Most especially their mac-and-cheese balls! YUM (pictured below). I also LOVED their Mediterranean Mahi Mahi as a main course! Would absolutely recommend it and get it again and again. =)

We've almost been married 3 years now. . . crazie! Not going to lie and say it's been easy, marriage is VERY tough. I think this year, more than ever, it's been our toughest year of marriage yet. . .God has given us many trials and we've had to do a LOT of compromising, which isn't always easy . . .

. . . but in the end, some things in life are worth fighting for. . .and marriage is definitely one of those things. I'm thankful that during this time of transition in-between work, God has shown me many areas in my own heart that I need to work on. . . and every aspect of that will affect our marriage no doubt.

By the grace of God and His Spirit working in us, day by day, we're learning how to truly love and respect one another for who we are and learning that it's not up to us to change the other person. . . it's truly only up to God.

People who have been married for years will say: marriage = WORK, and it's not until you get married, that you really believe that is so true. <3

2011 OSCARS fashion and favorite dresses

2011-02-27T21:18:00.002-08:00

I've been busy this month. . . mainly trying to pick up more private tutoring hours on my own free time. Honestly, it's been really picking up and I am very thankful. I seriously love this "job" that I have found. I feel like I'm helping my students and making a difference in their lives! (hopefully they feel the same way too. . .)

I haven't had time to really make any new dresses. . . but thankfully there's award show eye candy. . .

Yay! Oscars! My favorite red carpet looks:

I'm so happy for Natalie Portman! Although, I did not like the darkness of the movie Black Swan, happy for her! She truly deserved it after working so hard in training for the role. and now a mommy. =)

Glee girls on the RED carpet

2011-02-17T10:51:00.000-08:00

What can I say, I'm a GLEEK! <3-ed this week's episode. . . despite the fact that it was all Beiber. lol, Sam actually was more attractive after the Beiber thing. lol. I think the show is so appealing to teens and adults because we all can relate to those high school days when we're literally living in our own bubble and dealing with all the drama. . . at least I know I can. I also liked how this week's episode brought some more fashion to the show as opposed to just cheerleading outfits and high school jerseys all the time. Outfit wise, I think they should incorporate less preppy clothes on the show. . . but that's just me. Here are some of my favorite RED carpet looks from the Glee girls.

Are you GLEEK too?