Everyday Mom Ideas

Learning To Take Care Of Me, For Once

2012-02-25T05:00:00.000-07:00

It seems like this has been the year of self improvement for me. From going back to college after a decade, loosing 20lbs (and counting), and even getting my adult acne under control. Yep thats what I said... I am an adult and I wash my face twice a day and still struggle with acne. From the time I was 13 I have probably tried every face wash I could get my hands on at the store. I have even resorted to seeking help from my doctor and needing medication and harsh topical creams. I've never been a fan of taking medication that wasn't absolutely necessary so I quit the medication a few months after I started taking it. And while the topical cream seemed to work, after only using it for a week my skin would get so dried and red I would have to take a break from the topical cream every once in a while. Thats why I jumped at the chance and excepted the Skintactix Clear Skin Challenge. They have specific skin solution for different kinds of skin types. I literally noticed a huge difference overnight. The spot treatment overnight cream literally shinks the zit to almost nothing by the morning. The combination of the three applications left my skin feeling clean, soft, clear and not over dried. I like it so much I plan on buying some as soon as my samples are gone.

Not thrilled with showing you guys this picture but with sacrifice dignity for the sake of keeping it real. lol.

As so often many women and mothers end up facing... In the throws of motherhood, I forgot about myself. And while that sounds like not such a bad thing, it was. I thought that if I wasn't spending every waking moment of my life taking care of my family that I wasn't doing my duty or being grateful for my beautiful gift of motherhood and spouce. I had gotten to the point where taking a shower was guilt ridden. That is how far I had let myself go. Slowly I had less to give and slowly I became depressed. It has taken years for me to finally be comfortable saying "Im worth it", " Im deserving". I am more than a mother and wife, and while that is an important part of who I am, that is not all of who I am. Making time for me was one of things I struggled with most when it came to motherhood. Just because I get my nails done once a month doesn't mean I love my kids any less or am any less devoted to them. Just because I make time to work out for 1/2 an hour each day doesn't mean family is still not a priority. In fact it mean the opposite. I want to be mentally, physically and spiritually healthy... for my family. Spending a few minutes everyday to spruce up so I feel confident out in public and running errand with my family make a huge difference in not only me but my kids and husband. Being vain and worldly is not the same as taking care of yourself. And even taking care of our physical appearance can go a long ways. Weather its working out, primping, "getting acne under control" or taking some classes its important to take some time and care for yourself. If its one thing I've learned happyness its really about balance. If by miracle I have made time (even if its five minutes) for the important areas in my life in a day... that day is a beautiful day.

Fit Mom's For Life Giveaway!

2012-02-23T05:00:00.000-07:00

One of you lucky EMI readers will win a copy of Dustin Maher's "Fit Mom's For Life" book!

A fantastic guide to loosing weight realistically for busy moms.

There seems to be a strong fitness theme here at EMI (from weight loss stories to free fitness themed digi scrap kits) and I would like to keep it going with this great giveaway.

The truth is, loosing weight is about educating ourselves. And thats just what this book does. It not only educates us on nutrition and fitness but teaches how to get started the right way so that it will last, with things like taking your "before" picture, setting the right kinds of goals, printing out your food journals, learning positive affirmations, getting the whole family fit and healthy, and so much more. He even wrote about not going overboard and giving yourself some "free meals" a few times a week where you can eat some of your favorite foods. I love that this is such a realistic approach with smaller steadier steps towards transformation and its geared towards busy mom's and their specific needs.

(to read about my own personal weight loss story and extended review of this book check out this post)

Here's How You Can Enter To Win
(Leave a comment and valid email address for each entry)

Mandatory Entry: Leave a comment here and share with us your motivation for wanting to get fit and healthy.

Additional Entries: (you may do any or all of the following for more chances to win, as long as the mandatory entry is met.)

2. Sign up for the EMI Newsletter and get all the updates at EMI.

3. Follow EMI via Google Friend Connect

4. Follow EMI on Twitter and leave me your twitter ID (example: @everydaymom2005).

5. Tweet About this Giveaway and leave me your twitter ID.

6. Like Everyday Mom Ideas on Facebook.

7. Put the Everyday Mom Ideas Button on your Sidebar.

8. Add EMI to your blog roll

9. Blog about this giveaway and leave me the link to it

Open to US residents only, and must be 18 or older to enter to win
Giveaway Ends Monday February 29th at midnight. (Mountain standard time)
Random winner will be selected through random.org

Good Luck!

"Feel The Burn" -Free digital scrapbooking mega kit!

2012-02-20T05:00:00.000-07:00

I've got fitness and health on the brain so it seems, and was inspired to make a digital scrapbooking kit to go with my new lease on life and help promote health through my love of all things scrapbooking.

As new years resolutions are starting to get forgotten I hope this helps give you the extra boost or encouragement to keep going. This kit is perfect for displaying your before and after photos and will go great with any fitness activity photos. I have some great pictures of my little toddlers trying to work out with their dad that I am going to have to scrapbook now that I have the kit to go with it. If you haven't noticed already my kits are inspired by my own life and maybe that is what make them so special and unique. A little piece of me goes into each one. So I hope you love this kit and use it to its fullest.

paper preview

Please remember all my images and design are for personal use only. You are more than welcome to post your finished pages on your blog, I'd love to see what you made so feel free to email me a link to your projects at everydaymomideas at hotmail dot com. And it could be featured in my next "What you've been up too" post. With credit and a link back to your blog.

Download "Feel The Burn" Mega kit from Media Fire Here

This quick page is available for free, all I ask is that you please leave a comment in return.

Thank you. Happy Scrap'N

Becoming A Fit Mom For Life

2012-02-15T05:00:00.000-07:00

(picture taken while hiking bryce canyon national park)

As you all must know by now, I am an avid scrapbooker, and have been since I was about nine years old before people really knew what scrapbooking was. I have a passion for preserving photos and memories. And After having my beautiful boys there was even more passion behind my love of scrapbooking. They are now six and seven and when I look back on their early years there is something noticeably missing... me. And I can't blame it all on the fact that I was the one behind the camera. The truth is I deleted most of the pictures with me in it. Mostly because it shocked me at just how bad I had let myself go, and I tried not to think about it. But this self neglect seeped into every area of my life, until it became the elephant in the room. Like so many women I was sold on the hole idea of motherhood being an all encompassing job that I had to do 24 hours a day and If I did anything for myself I felt guilty and selfish. That that was time I could be using to benefit my family or home. I think I let the light slowly drain out of me and I soon had little to give. This turned into unspoken bitterness and joy became increasingly hard to find. I started not going out in public as much as I could get away with. I even loved getting sick because it was like someone was giving me permission to take time out and focus on myself for a day or two. This was now way to live. At 25 years old I thought all my best days where forever behind me and this was the rest of my new life as a mother.
I was sick of being in the back stage of my own life. I was missing so much. Something had to change. It wasn't until about a year after I started loosing weight and eating right that it finally donned on me that I needed this so I can give more. And that it was okay to not be 100% mother. That I am a dynamic person and have many areas in my life that need care and nurturing so I can grow and be productive. That I can be my own kind of mom (and wife) and draw on my strengths and have fun being a mom in my own way. I let myself be okay with not knowing how to sew or bake bread. I do other things really great, like making crafts and playing Uno with my boys, and going on bike rides. I'm not saying gaining new skills and improving isn't great Im saying if Im going them at the expense of a healthier lifestyle than its not right for me.
One of the things that Im grateful for in my weight loss journey is that I started this all when my kids where still toddlers so that they can be raised in a healthier home with healthier meals and physical activity. I want to help them be set up for success so that it wont be as challenging or foreign for them to be healthy when they become adult and move away from home. As a kid I grew up on spaghetti, mac and cheese, hamburgers, hotdogs, and top ramen. My husbands families' diet was even worse. They rarely ate fruits or vegetables ever. So talk about challenge. Over the course of four years we have had a lot of ups and down with getting our family on the right track but I will tell you one thing... every time we have a "down" our "up" goes a little bit higher each time.

If you are looking to make a life style change and not just loose some weight but get your family on track with you leading the way I completely recommend "Fit Moms for Life" written by Dustin Maher. My favorite part of the book was "Fit mom, fit family" section. There are some great advice for going about getting your kids active and healthy and doing it the right way not only physically but mentally too so they have a healthy outlook on health and fitness. One of my favorite things he wrote was "Talk about it in terms of health and energy and how they will feel and what their bodies will be able to do if the eat well and exercise." My mom used to get me up at 5am before school started to have me do a workout video with her. She would say things like "I noticed you are getting a little chubby" your cheeks are getting really round". And at dinner she would only let my brothers have seconds. Don't get me wrong, I love my mother, and I have not doubt she loved me. She just didn't know the right way to go about getting her kids fit and healthy, and doing it in a way that would last. I wish fit moms for life was around for my mom so I could have had the benefits that I am trying to give my kids. The truth is, its about educating ourselves. And thats just what this book does. It not only educates us on nutrition and fitness but teaches how to get started the right way so that it will last, with things like taking your "before" picture, setting the right kinds of goals, printing out your food journals, learning positive affirmations, and so much more. He even wrote about not going overboard and giving yourself some "free meals" a few times a week where you can eat some of your favorite foods. I love that this is such a realistic approach with smaller steadier steps towards transformation and its geared towards busy mom's and their specific needs.

I have kept off and lost 30lbs in the last three years and have lost another 18lbs just in the last six weeks and I feel younger than I did five to seven years ago and am doing things I thought I would never do like white water river rafting for my birthday. Now instead of cake calling to me on my birthday I rather go on an adventure every year. And this is just the beginning.

me: middle person with mouth hanging open, having the time of my life!

Next on the list: Try Surfing...

Wishing you a Happy Valentines Day with a GIVEAWAY from shabby apple!

2012-02-14T05:00:00.000-07:00

One of you lucky EMI readers will win this beautiful dress called "coco bean" from Shabby Apple, an online boutique of women's dresses!

(Available Sizes: XXS, XS, S, M, L, XL)

What's better than chocolate for valentines? A chocolate dress, thats what!

Sweeter than a steaming cup of spiced chocolate, with the same amount kick, the Cocoa Bean dress is a confection in cotton poplin. The fitted bodice, spiced up with brass buttons, a trench flap at the shoulder and puff sleeves, descends into a fitted a-line skirt that falls to the knee. Slip your favorite lip gloss and keys in your pockets, throw on a pair of sassy pumps and you'll be steaming up the salsa club in no time.

Here's How You Can Enter To Win
(Leave a comment and valid email address for each entry)

Mandatory Entry: To win this great dress: a. “like” Shabby Apple on Facebook, then leave me a comment saying you did so along with telling us what other shabby apple dress is your favorite.

Additional Entries: (you may do any or all of the following for more chances to win, as long as the mandatory entry is met.)

2. Sign up for the EMI Newsletter and get all the updates at EMI.

3. Follow EMI via Google Friend Connect

4. Follow EMI on Twitter and leave me your twitter ID (example: @everydaymom2005).

5. Tweet About this Giveaway and leave me your twitter ID.

6. Like Everyday Mom Ideas on Facebook.

7. Put the Everyday Mom Ideas Button on your Sidebar.

8. Add EMI to your blog roll

9. Blog about this giveaway and leave me the link to it

Open to US residents only, and must be 18 or older to enter to win
Giveaway Ends Monday February 21st at midnight. (Mountain standard time)
Random winner will be selected through random.org

Good Luck!

Closed

Congratulations to Journiebug (random winner number 51)

FIN-tastic Valentine Card Printable (FREE)

2012-02-11T16:14:00.000-07:00

Just in time for Valentines day!

FREE Swedish fish Valentine day printable for class mates and teachers! It reads "I'm so glad we are in the same "School"! Hope you have a FIN-tastic Valentines Day!" and "You are one cool "School" teacher! Hope you have a FIN-tastic Valentines Day

These are perfect for printing on your home printer or download it and take it to the printers. I took mine to the printers and got about fifty of these printed and cut out for both my boy's classes for a total of about $13.00. That's only $0.14 a card. I also printed some on my home printer as well and they turned out great.

You can some treat bags for about a dollar or two at hobby lobby, dollar store or just your local grocery store to put the fish in. You could also try little jewelry bags or sandwich bags. Or even just get the little packets of Swedish fish and tape it to the front.

Fintastic Valentine Free Printable Fintastic Valentine Free Printable for Teachers
I hope you have a wonderful Valentines and that you have fun with this printable!

The making of a dystopian world... (photoshop project)

2012-02-08T18:58:00.001-07:00

This was one of my favorite photoshop projects yet! And I have to say thank goodness for digital scrapbooking. What does digi scrap have to do with this? Well, this is pretty much fancy digi scrapbooking. Working with layers, and fun effects... Its like all my years of being a scrapbooker has groomed me to one day be a graphic designer. Sweet!

The man on the road is actually my husband who is such a good sport when it come to all my crazy projects. And why did I go with dystopian? Well, its because Im obsessed. It all started with Stephenie Meyer's "The Host" and I was hooked. From there it went to the Hungers Games and now its like Im on a personal mission to read all teen dystopian novels. I love reading about another angle or take on a post apocalyptic world and its socieaty. I am thoroughly fasinated with how creative these authors are. Right now I'm in the middle of reading the birthmark trilogy and the Pretties series.

So I thought I would try my hand at making a dystopian world of my own.

Gone With The Wind Movie Poster Project

2012-02-03T19:07:00.002-07:00

I am in love with all the fun minimalist posters out there right now and was so inspired I thought I would challenge myself to make a minimalist Gone With The Wind movie poster for my college photoshop class assignment. It turned out so much better than I thought. I think this is definitely going up on my wall! I actually think the blue ray ad turned out the best. It was an unexpected surprise. I've also been toying around with the idea of opening an etsy shop and selling prints. But I will probably have to wait until after I graduate in a year when I have more time on my hands.

What do you think? Would you buy this print? (without the watermark of course)

Loosing 11lbs in One Month and still going strong!

2012-02-01T17:54:00.001-07:00

I've been trying to loose weight for about five years now and over the course of three years I've kept off about 30 lbs from my highest weight. But, I admit while this seems like a good number... at one point I had lost 50 lbs and over the last year I have put back on twenty pounds. My biggest weakness is I loose motivation quickly. I can usually loose weight when I want to, but keeping the momentum and making a life style change is what really does me in. There are some great things that have come out of all my yo-yo weight loss efforts though, first of all I have found a load of yummy healthy recipes I would eat even if I wasn't dieting and my kids love the meals as well, secondly: somehow it gets easier and easier to start up working out and eating right each time I have to restart loosing weight, and thirdly: I've learned a lot about nutrition and my eating habits and weaknesses. So what's so different this time around? Well its actually my workout...

I usually just get on my stationary bike for 30 min a night while watching my favorite TV show and thought I was doing a great job. It wasn't until I found Physical Fix that my mindset towards working out changed. Physical Fix is an online custom workout website where I get to pick the intensity of the work out based on my needs and the equipment that I already have at home. Plus, this great trainer keeps an eye out on my progress, questions, concerns and keeps a steady flow of communication and helpful tips to keep me going. You can imagine the surprise and motivation I felt when after leaving a comment about my first workout I got a reply from the trainer within half a day. It has made all the difference having a trainer to interact with and motivate me when Im down, sore or un-motivated. And getting to work out in the comfort of my own home at the same time. Working out in public is just to much for me and with Josh Zitomer's program I get the individual attention that I need with the privacy that I want. I also like that it tells you how many calories your about to burn in the upcoming workout. Plus the only time I have to workout is after my kids go to bed and I just don't have the resources to get a babysitter so I can go to a gym. I couldn't of found a more perfect program for myself.

Josh Zitomer (president of physical fix) gave me an extended trial so that I could fully take advantage of their online program and I have to say now that its over I have a hard time going back to my routine stationary bike. I miss Physical Fixes workouts. I got so much out of each session (an average of just 30 minutes). At the end of the six weeks I was able to do twenty pushups, lunges, and I did the plank for the full amount of time. This coming from someone who could not even do one lunge or push up on day one, let alone get my butt off the ground to do the plank. I am definitely getting back on his workout program if its the last thing I do.

I highly recommend this program if you have been struggling to carve out time for your workouts and working out on your own is just not cutting it. They also have workouts available to accommodate people with certain injuries as well.

If you are interested in trying this out for yourself, Physical Fix let's you have a free two week trial and you don't have to sign up for anything. Its totally worth checking out and seeing if its a right fit for you and it won't cost you anything.

My weight loss journey is by far over but I feel like I've gotten off to a good start. So keep an eye out for my next weight loss post coming up in a month and check in to see how I'm doing. My goal is to loose 30 more lbs by July 18th and keep it off for good. I have a new love of feeling strong and powerful, I have so much living to do and I need a strong lean body to do it in.

What you've been up to - January 2012

2012-01-31T06:00:00.000-07:00

Here are some fun projects some of you EMI readers have made using my digital scrapbooking kits and images. Thanks so much for sending these links and emails, and for facebooking me your creations. It truly fuels me to keep making kits and making them available for you guys to download for free.

Story Telling game by Melissa Quilici

Blog header by Toddler Tales By Mommy

Card background paper from "The Dwelling Place" kit card by Jillispages.blogspot

Card Background paper from "Sunshine Of My Life" card made by Jillispages

Used "Wild Ways" kit page designed by Nicole

1st home scrapbook page

Blog hop announcement button created with the "Backyard Play" kit, button designed at dotbuglvr.blogspot.com

Scrapbook page designed by Wyominggirlcoastwife with the "Wild Ways" kit

Scrapbook page by Shelly created with the "Lil' Monster" kit

Of Pinks And Fairy Tale's you can find this scrapbook page created with the "Memory Of A Mother" kit

Flyer by Amanda Bethard created with the Memories Of A Mother kit

Page created by Clever Migs with the "Hello Foxy"kit

If you have any creations or projects you have made with any of my scrap kits or images, I'd love to see it. Plus, it will most likely get put in my next "What you've been up to" post with a link back to your site with credits as well. You can email me with links or attachments at everydaymomideas at hotmail dot com or post it at EMI Facebook page here.

Happy birthday to a very special six year old!

2012-01-30T01:00:00.000-07:00

Dear six year old on your birthday,

You wouldn't know it based on your reaction but this year has been a big year for you. You have this incredible ability to adjust to the changes in your life so easlily. We made a big move this year and within a day you had settled in like you had been living there your whole life. And you didn't even hesitate when starting a new school and church. Your favorite people remain to be grandma and your Uncle Donny. It really struck my heart hard when you cried after getting to talk to your uncle donny who is serving on a mission right now, because you missed him so much and wanted him to come home. You have a really become more tender hearted and thoughtful this year and I am constantly finding little notes and colored pictures on my pillow and night stand. What a wonderful surprise.

Some of the big things that you did this year was go to San francisco and The four corners colorado on two vacations, started reading chapter books at just five years old, and gave your first talk in church that you read all by yourself to the whole ward. You are so smart for your age and your teacher says you read almost two grades higher than what you are at. You make friends so easily and all the girls like you. You have really been into Pokemon this fall even though you have never watched an episode in your life. You watch "Cloudy with a chance of meatballs" a lot this year and love Fly guy books.

You are celebrating your birthday this year with a Little Monster themed party and afterwards we are taking you (as requested) to Chucky cheese for dinner. You've asked for Mc Donalds breakfast for your birthday breakfast, which we were thrilled about because that meant we don't have to get up to early to make you breakfast like all the other years.

You are such a special strong child in so many ways. I know god made you that way for a reason. I think you are one of the most determined beings I have ever had the privilege to meet. I know that you will be a strong independent man someday and will be very successful in anything you put an effort into. My wish is for you to continue to grow and open your heart to those you meet. And that you will fill your life up with love and goodness. I love you so much and am so proud of the person you are growing into. I hope being six years old brings you security, love, and most importantly (to you)... adventure. Happy Birthday!

Gigi Hill Bag review and giveaway!

2012-01-29T20:27:00.001-07:00

Gigi Hill is giving away this beautiful "Zipped Brigitte" bag to one of you lucky EMI readers!!! A $168.00 value!

"I had the privalage of getting to review this bag before this giveaway and the first thing I want to tell you is that I was personally so impressed with the outstnding quality of this fantastic tote! Plus it was huge. That is me in the picture up top and I am five foot ten, and this bag was massive not only could I use it as a suitcase but it would be great to use for my buisness needs like photography. I could put my tripod, camera, props and laptop in this bag and still have room for more. The possibilities are endless. This bag is truely versitile. Another thing I loved was the design of the storage compartments...

There are so many nifty pockets and storage. And I just love there is a hook for my keys so I don't have to go digging at the bottom for them! So thoughtful! The price is truly a bargain for what you get... seriously! I completely recommend this brand to anybody not just busy mom's. Its a great product. " -Julia DeLeeuw

Gigi Hill Bags are smart & stylish, functional & fashionable bags for busy moms and on-the-go women.  These bags are designed by two very busy moms who started the company in 2009, and now their bags are seen in magazines and on TV shows! Outfitted with the Signature Pocket Design it ensures there is a pocket for everything (cell phone, bottle (baby or water), sunglasses, keys, even your favorite lipstick). These beautiful, customizable, handcrafted bags have stunning yet durable hardware and cleanable (wipeable – for when that kiddo spits up or you dump your coffee all over it!) complimentary interior and exterior fabrics.  

These make an ideal gift for that busy mom or friend on the go. Plus they are affordable (Prices $25 – $250).

Gigi Hill Bags and Accessories also prides itself on providing career opportunities to women by enabling them to build their own business in their own time/pace by becoming a GiGi Hill Stylist. Designed to be fun and social but also financially rewarding (a little extra cash for that busy mom who wants to stay at home with their kids!) Gigi Hill Stylists enjoy the flexibility of setting their own hours to generate the extra income they’re looking for. 

There are three ways to buy your Gigi Hill Bag or Accessory – you can simply go online www.gigihillbags.com and either place your order, find a Stylist near you and host your own party with your friends, or become a Gigi Hill Stylist yourself and you will have a great selection of Bags and Accessories to showcase and sell to your friends!

ABOUT THE ZIPPED BRIGITTE:

the Zipped Brigitte

large tote

22”W x 15-1/2”H x 8”D

strap drop 10 1/2”

Retail Price: $168

This large tote was inspired by days at the beach and has evolved into the ultimate overnight bag. With its zip-top closure, no matter what your needs, the Zipped Brigitte will hold all of your belongings. The extra-wide straps sit comfortably on your shoulders, while the side snaps allow for extra space as you need it. The Zipped Brigitte features Gigi Hill’s exclusive Signature Pocket Design, high-end, beautiful yet durable hardware and feet on the bottom to ensure your treasured valuables never touch the ground.

Here's How You Enter To Win

(Leave a comment and valid email address for each entry)

Mandatory Entry: Leave a comment here and share with us about some things that you just have to have in your purse... not including your wallet, keys, or phone.

Additional Entries: (you may do any or all of the following for more chances to win, as long as the mandatory entry is met.)

2. Sign up for the EMI Newsletter and get all the updates at EMI.

3. Follow EMI via Google Friend Connect

4. Follow EMI on Twitter and leave me your twitter ID (example: @everydaymom2005).

5. Tweet About this Giveaway and leave me your twitter ID.

6. Like Everyday Mom Ideas on Facebook.

7. Put the Everyday Mom Ideas Button on your Sidebar.

8. Add EMI to your blog roll

9. Blog about this giveaway and leave me the link to it

10. Like Gigi Hill on Facebook

Open to US residents only, and must be 18 or older to enter to win
Giveaway Ends Sunday February 5that midnight. (Mountain standard time)
Random winner will be selected through random.org

Good Luck!

Closed

Fashion Me Pretty! -My first outfit collage

2012-01-26T15:48:00.002-07:00

This is the first fashion collage I've ever put together and it was so fun getting to fashion together my favorite styles and colors and creating this outfit. This is totally me! I've been loving the pairing of yellow and grey lately. I also love things that are a little edgy and feminine at the same time. Like pairing grey skinny jeans with a shear light striped tee and a form flattering jacket. And aren't the shoes to die for?! Some women are into purses, and some into shoes, well I'm a Jacket kind of girl. I just can't seem to have enough jackets! They are so versatile and I just plain love em! Plus I live in frosty Utah so I guess its not such a bad thing to have a few extra jackets around since they are a major staple of my wardrobe.

I recently had the opportunity to review the Sterling Citrine and Diamond Bracelet included in this collage and I must say... it is as lovely as it looks and was my beginning inspiration for the rest of the outfit. This product review was sponsored by Kranich's. They have amazing fine jewelry pieces like Princess Cut Diamond Engagement Rings and designers like Simon G and so much more.

My stunning bracelet can transfer over from casual office to date night with my husband and not only is it a high quality piece but I was most impressed with the very secure clasp. I usually don't where nice bracelets in fear that the bracelet will easily come loose but this one is great. Its almost like a double clasp for extra security so I'm comfortable wearing it just about anywhere. I just love it.

What do you think of my first outfit collage?

Shabby Apple Dress Giveaway!

2012-01-20T16:44:00.003-07:00

Shabby Apple is giving away this beautiful dress called "Mariposa Grove" to one of you lucky EMI readers! A value of $86.00! (sizes available XXS, XS, S, L, sizes run big)

Shabby apple is an online dress boutique selling women’s dresses, casual dresses, skirts, and women’s apparel.

Dress information:

A cascade of raw-edged petal details adorns the neck of this Kelly-green frock. With cap sleeves and an exposed back zipper, this dress is as alive as the grove after which it is called. Traveler’s Tip: Mariposa Grove has over 200 giant Sequoia tress in it. Don’t miss it on your visit!
Fit Notes:This dress Fits Generously. Dress fits snugly through bust and back, so buxom women may want to order a larger size. Sleeve is also not as pictured on model. Sleeve is a cap sleeve and provides less coverage than in the picture.

Machine wash cold, delicate cycle. Line dry.

Sizing concern? Not the right dress for you? Return your dress and Shabby Apple will ship you a new dress for FREE!

Here's How You Can Enter To Win
(Leave a comment and valid email address for each entry)

Mandatory Entry: To win this great dress, “like” Shabby Apple on Facebook, then leave me a comment saying you did so.

Additional Entries: (you may do any or all of the following for more chances to win, as long as the mandatory entry is met.)

1. Leave a comment telling us where you would where this dress.

2. Sign up for the EMI Newsletter and get all the updates at EMI.

3. Follow EMI via Google Friend Connect

4. Follow EMI on Twitter and leave me your twitter ID (example: @everydaymom2005).

5. Tweet About this Giveaway and leave me your twitter ID.

6. Like Everyday Mom Ideas on Facebook.

7. Put the Everyday Mom Ideas Button on your Sidebar.

8. Add EMI to your blog roll

9. Blog about this giveaway and leave me the link to it

Open to US residents only, and must be 18 or older to enter to win
Giveaway Ends Saturday January 28th at midnight. (Mountain standard time)
Random winner will be selected through random.org

Good Luck!

CLOSED

Congrats to comment number 123! You have 24 hours to email me back, after than I must choose a different winner. Look out for my email soon.

Parenting Motto...

2012-01-18T19:34:00.002-07:00

I saw this on pintrest and had to share with you ladies. Motherhood is fierce.

Getting back to scraping me some pages!

2012-01-15T18:25:00.001-07:00

I've been trying to get caught up on my scrapbooking. As you can see I am over two years behind.... For someone who's blog has a lot to do with digi scrap, that is just sad. Lol. It probably because I spend my spare time making stuff for you guys.

I'd love to hear what you think.

Which one is your favorite page?

Grandparents in living color- Color restoration project

2012-01-14T14:25:00.000-07:00

These are my husbands great grandparents, and I was able to know his great grandpa for a few years before he died. He was such a sweet man. This was such a neat photoshop assignment for me to do for my photoshop class Im taking and I worked hard to give it the effort it deserved. Including finding out their hair and eye color so that I could maintain the integrity of the project as well. The hardest part was the hair and her brioche. I am still not a fan of the coloring for those two things but feel like everything else came out excellent.

Photoshop coloring restoration tip:

Don't just add a color when working with skin color, be mindful of the shadows and highlights and add shades of pink in those areas even to some parts of the mans face to help it all look more natural.

Happy Birthday To A Very Special Seven Year Old

2012-01-09T05:00:00.000-07:00

Dear seven year old on your birthday,

Every year you become more and more your own person. You have become quite the philosopher and can express yourself and your ideas well beyond your age. I was so proud with how you handled your self when we made a big move this year to a town clear across the state and away from the only home you had ever known. You were sad to leave behind your friends but comforted yourself by telling yourself you were going to make new friends and it was going to be exciting to live somewhere else. You made some big mile stones this year when you learned how to ride your bike. I love that we can now ride our bikes around town together and its even easy for you to keep up. You also started to read chapter books recently and you teacher says your an above average reader for your age. I am also so impressed with how well you take care of your cat, Brookings. When he got ran over and we didn't know if the vet could fix him you were so brave and tried so hard to not cry and be strong. And when your cat came home after surgery you took very good care of him in his room making sure he was clean, fed, comfortable and safe from the dog. One of your favorite things you did this year was when we went to San Fransisco in this last spring. I think you were most impressed with Alcatraz and riding on the trolleys.

Some of the things you were really into this year was riding your bike, reading, legos, electric trains, Pokemon cards, the Lego video games for the wii, and dancing when you do your chores.

We are celebrating your birthday this year by you having a sleep over party with your new friends next door. You want bacon, sausage, eggs, and chocolate milk for your birthday breakfast and pizza and ice cream from hogi yogi for dinner.

I have loved watching you grow and learn this year and can't believe how smart and fast you've grown. I hope that you continue with your love of learning and reading and that your love of arts and crafts continues to blossom as well. You have a real talent and artistic gift that I hope you take advantage of. May seven be a year of awe and wonderful you and be filled with many adventures.

The Lemon Project

2012-01-06T11:54:00.000-07:00

I thought it would be fun to show you guys some of my school projects I've been working on in my college photoshop classes. This assignment was called lemons. We were to add lemons to as many photos as we could my the end of the semester. The more creative the better. Here are some of my favorites that I made.

2012 Blog Resolutions

2011-12-31T16:40:00.003-07:00

Just in case the world doesn't end... Here are some things I would like to get done with my blog this year...

1. Get my Facebook fans up to 1,500 so I can get you guys some even cooler giveaways!

2. Feature an amazing Mom blog once a month

3. See EMI surpass 2,000 google followers

4. Create a free ebook... any ideas?

5. Make six amazing new kits

6. Widen my blog width so I can add some bigger images to my post

7. Manage my blog time, and be more efficient.

Thanks to you guys, I completed one of my 2011 blog resolutions and surpassed my goal of getting 1,000 blog followers! Thanks for not only getting me to that goal but surpassing it by over almost 25%!

May 2012 not end... and may it be your best year yet!

Hello Foxy -FREE quick page download

2011-12-30T06:00:00.000-07:00

I've created a coordinating quick page to the Hello Foxy digital scrapbooking kit for you guys to download and enjoy for FREE! Quick pages are a great way to scrapbook if you don't have a lot of time. Just pop in your own photos using a photo editing or scrapbook program and save and print.

Right now at "Scrapbook Please" they are having a great sale. You can get 12x12 prints for just $0.99! Which is amazing. This is where I get my prints at a steal, so I thought I should give you guys a heads up on it as well.

This quick page is available for free, all I ask is that you please leave a comment in return.

Thank you. Happy Scrap'N

Download QP from MediaFire Here

The making of a family Christmas music video

2011-12-29T12:52:00.000-07:00

We had so much fun filming this Christmas music video on Christmas eve, we are thinking that it might become a new family tradition to film a new music video every other year when we all get together for Christmas. It only took up two hours to film and an extra hour to edit, and now it has become the highlight of our Christmas holiday.

I hope you enjoy it as much as we did making it.

Why we loved 2011

2011-12-27T21:25:00.005-07:00

Why We Loved 2011

My two boys ages six and five learned how to ride their bikes in just two days.
We got to see my older sister (Marie) get her own temple endowments at the Manti Temple.
We took a week long family vacation to San Francisco and got to tour the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz, and got to ride the trolly cars.
My husband achieved a bachelors degree in social science
We went on a family vacation with with my husbands family to the four corners USA and got to tour an old gold mine, Arches national park, and Mesa Verde.
I read over 30 novels this year. My former average being one to two books a year.
My two little boys did 100 extra chores in the course of five weeks to earn a huge backyard play set.
We got to camp at at Bryce Canyon National Park for the first time.
My husband got a new job as a Utah Juvenile Justice counselor.
We moved from our home of seven years up into Utah valley
We adopted! A dog that is. Her name is Butterscotch. She is a beagle/lab mix. And we just love her so much.
My husband and I went tubing for the first time, down the provo river this summer.
I went back to college in graphic and web design and is loving it.

My sons went rollerskating for the first time.
We bought a new car that is more fuel efficient.
My two boys and I gave their first talks in church ever.
I was called to serve in the Relief society activity committee.
My two little boys went to their very first sports game and saw the BYU season opener game, and they loved it.
I am finally going to be an aunt. My brother and his wife are expecting their first child this July.

May 2012 be just as good.

"Where we love is home..." a Christmas present print.

2011-12-17T22:19:00.001-07:00

"Where we love is home, home that our feet may leave, but not our hearts." -Oliver Wendell Holms

I met my very best friend when I was nine years old in a very small town in Utah. I was fortunate to grow up with her and remain dear friends now twenty years later. Sadly enough, she moved to Florida six years ago for a fresh start and new opportunities. Somehow we have kept our friendship alive despite the mile between us and I can still tell her my deepest secrets and find the most loving comfort in our phone calls.

She has a lot of friends and family here in Utah, and she is much loved and missed. When she comes for a visit it is like Micky Mouse just arrived at Disney land. You have to wait your turn to be graced with her presence because she is in such high demand here. And when she inevitable has to return to Florida and to the life she has created for herself, its as if someone has shot my puppy... every time. And I know it is equally hard for her. And she too wishes Florida and Utah could somehow combine itself and she could have both the life that she wants with the people she loves. So I designed this very fitting print just for her. Each heart representing a place in Utah where she has either friends or family that love her deeply and want her to be happy no matter where her journey in life takes her.

Merry Christmas Michelle

What to do with left over Christmas tree bulbs

2011-12-15T22:11:00.000-07:00

Last year I tried to go with a red themed Christmas tree and this year I wanted to switch it up and did a gold themed Christmas tree so I had all these left over red tree bulbs so I was just thrilled when I came across this picture on printest!

Thanks for the great idea. We are loving our new window display. And they are just perfect with my red couches!