Preppy Mom

GIVEAWAY: 16x20 Canvas

2017-07-04T16:08:00.000-05:00

Did you see my last post?
The one about what I've been up too --
The one with the cute picture of my growing boys.
and all the details on my new SeneGence paycheck! :)

If not, you should definitely go check it out!

but what better way to make a comeback than with FREE stuff, right?

As a huge thank you for sticking around so long,

I'm giving away a FREE 16x20 Canvas from Canvas Factory!

We all know that I'm a HUGE fan of Gallery walls and Canvas Prints!

Just take a lot at how my gallery wall has grown over the years ...

From this ...

to this ...

and I just ordered one more for the top left! ;)

So when Canvas Factory contacted me about a giveaway for my readers --
I jumped up and down and couldn't say yes fast enough!

You need one of their canvases on your wall!
The quality is incredible!
I love how the edges are mirrored so you don't loose parts of your picture!
I love the thickness and the texture!

Want a FREE 16x20 Canvas?
It's easy! There are several ways to enter ...

a Rafflecopter giveaway
Giveaway starts today and ends Sunday at midnight!

GOOD LUCK!

4 Tips for a Successful Vendor Event

2017-07-04T15:01:00.002-05:00

4 Tips for a Successful Vendor Event

1. First Impressions.

Statistically, you have a seven second window to make a first impression.

That's it - just seven seconds, so let's make them good!

Two things play into first impressions at a vendor event -- YOU and your BOOTH!

Let's talk about YOU!

"The Big Day" Outfit - What you wear is important. Don't let anyone tell you differently.

You want to appropriately represent your brand -- YOU are your brand - dress like it! If your brand is super casual and laid back -- then wear a cute hat with your company name/logo and a cute t-shirt. I sell LipSense -- I want to look professional and knowledgeable and I always wear the same outfit to events - a Red "lips" shirt with a cotton leopard blazer. Imagine if I wasn't wearing any make-up, looked a hot mess and dressed like a bum? Would you want to buy makeup products from me? No way! But most importantly, you need to look approachable -- wear a smile! :) "You're never fully dressed without a smile", right? That's actually great advice and very true when it comes to events! Check yourself -- "RBF" is a big deterrent! lol.

Now, let's talk about your BOOTH!

STAND OUT! You don't want to blend into the dark backdrops of all the other booths!

Showcase your Business! You want a large sign that people can see from a distance with easy to read fonts. I didn't want to invest a ton of money into vendor events, so I designed a graphic using the free program Canva and then had it printed for cheap via Vistaprint. I built a very inexpensive "sign stand" out of PVC pipe, spray painted it gold and used velcro to attach it! It worked great and is very easy to transport and store!

B&W Stripe & Leopard Photo Boxes + Cake Stand

Height is your friend! If you just have one table -- use it wisely! You need to add height to showcase all of your products! My favorite, inexpensive hack is to use the "Photo Holder Boxes". I get mine from Hobby Lobby - they come in really awesome prints and patterns (as well as solids like black and white) and they cost $2.00 when on sale! Added bonus -- they allow you to store things in them while transporting to the event! I also love to use cake plates -- Hobby Lobby has acrylic ones for $9.99 ($6 after 40% coupon) and I spray paint the bottom gold! It makes an awesome, inexpensive display! The Dollar Store has tons of different size clear acrylic picture frames! Create graphics in Canva that mimic your signs and display them around your table!

Color Coordinate!! You want your booth to match your branding! My business cards combine Leopard with Black and white -- so I used those in my booth! I "splurged" and bought a fitted solid colored tablecloth from Amazon. It cost less than $15 and gives my booth such a professional look! Then I layer different "tablecloths" (aka, cheap fabric from Hobby Lobby) using gold or leopard to tie in my business design. Lightboxes are also AMAZING! You can totally personalize them!

Shop your House! It's tempting to want to go out and buy all new things, but you'll be amazed at the things you have laying around that make amazing display pieces! Remember, we want to make money - not spend it all before it starts! :)

The Power of Spray Paint! A can of spray paint is the perfect way to transform everyday items from drab to fab! I basically keep a can of gold metallic spray paint in my garage at all times!

2. Draw People in!

So now we've got ourselves looking good ;) --

we've got our Booth looking AMAZING --

now we need to draw the people in to purchase!

Here are few things that help draw people in ...

Free Candy!

People love FREE and everyone loves Candy!

Photo Booth!

This is a fun one!! I built a simple PVC Pipe Photo Booth Stand, ordered a gold sequin backdrop, bought some cheap props off Amazon and voila!

It brought so many people of all ages by my booth!

3. Get them to buy.

The people are at your booth -- now what do you do?

How do you get them to purchase rather than just look?

ENTICE THEM!

Games!

My Favorite is the dice game! I bring large dice -- let people roll them and each number 1-6 coordinates to a specific discount that they can use right then! Remember, you want people to purchase NOW - not later - so encourage them!

Contests and Giveaways!

I normally take everyone's email address and then later that evening, I draw a name for a Free item (in my case, a LipSense gloss) or a Free Gift! I do the drawing LIVE in my group! This benefits me because I get them to join my group -- and also because I get their email addresses -- so I can add them to my MailChimp News flyer or Sales Ad when I send those out and potentially gain some long term customers!

*This is LipSense specific - but by giving away a gloss - they usually buy a color! Win Win!

Free Gift with Purchase!

I also do a FREE gift with purchase over $50.

I do this instead of giving event discounts --

it's much more cost effective to buy a few $1 make up bags, mirrors, etc!

4. Back for more!

They purchased! Now what?

You want to create repeat customers!

Make sure that all your "wrapping" has your Logo and that you give them a business card!

I also like to add to a little "coupon" or discount for a future purchase! Most likely, they know a lot of people that sell whatever product you're selling -- convince them to choose you! I pre-assembled my packaging before the event and all I had to do was stick the LipSense in there! Quick and Cute!

I also like to add a little sticker and sign that says ...
"Take a Selfie - Post it in my group and get 10% off your next purchase"

A few more things to keep in mind ...

Unfortunately, bad people are everywhere and people will steal. Make sure that your product is protected. I use clear acrylic drawers (dollar store) -- it allows people to see what product I have -- but the drawers (where they open) are behind the table so they don't have access to taking my product.

*The picture on the left is the view the customer's see -- the right is the view I see behind the table!

Set up a TRY IT ON station! If you sell clothing -- bring a "dressing room". If you sell make-up, set up a table where people can actually try it on! People want to experience what they are buying first!

To the right of my booth, I set up a "try it before you buy it" table.

See it back there? I created a sort of "U shape" ...

photo booth on the left, booth in the middle, "try it" station on the right.

I used a 4ft table with two "stations" --

each chair had a mirror, trash can and instructions on how to apply LipSense!

This also helped keep the front of my booth clear and available to new people walking by.

Before the event, I pre-assembled "demo kits" which included a little baggy with 4 disposable wands and a glossy sample. This made it much easier to hand out while I was busy with other customers.

My best advice?

HAVE FUN!

Learn from your mistakes -- tweak it and try something different the next time!

Take what you like, leave what you don't!

It's YOUR business -- do it YOUR way!

BE YOU!

Are you interested in learning more about LipSense?

Would you LOVE to have a job where you make your own hours?

Would you LOVE to have a job where you can work from anywhere?

I would LOVE to tell you about how a simple $55 investment changed my life!

Come join my group on Facebook.

or Follow me on Instagram.

Excused Absense and a paycheck.

2017-03-09T20:06:00.002-06:00

Hey, hey Ladies!

I'm back! Back again. ;)

I'm sorry. I suck.

I've tried SO hard to keep up with blogging and I don't know -- it just always falls at the bottom of the endless "To-Do List". Then 9 pm comes along and rather than hopping on here to tell you about my day or the latest DIY craft I made, I mindlessly read other people's blogs until I fall asleep with a pile of unfolded laundry at my feet and my to-do list still 1 million miles long! Then I get up with the baby about 13,000 times throughout the night and start the day all over as a walking zombie!

That's real life, folks! ;)

I'm sure a few of you can relate?

Anyone? Anyone?

Ok, so where did we leave off?

Well ... my boys have gotten SOOO big! :(

They are now 7, 5, 3 and 1!

Time sure flies when you're having fun. or sleep deprived.

If you want to follow along on our crazy daily adventures,

come find me on Instagram -- preppymom is my name.

I've also been doing something SUPER fun, I can't wait to share!!

I discovered LipSense!

Have you heard of it?

If yes, then you know how AMAZING it is!!

Like OMMMGGGG AMAZING -- AM I RIGHT??

What's your favorite color?

If you haven't --- oh man! You're missing out!!

It's Incredible!

and I'm not just saying that.

LipSense is a long lasting lip color (it is not a stain) that molecularly bonds to your lips!

It lasts anywhere between 4-18 hours! On me -- it lasts easily 10-12 hours!

Isn't that crazy??

You can go through your WHOLE day without having to worry about your Lipstick.

You can eat pizza -- or drink wine-- or go swimming with your toddler -- and it's still there.

it's the ultimate Hot Mess Mom lipstick.

Anything that passes the #boymom test --

well then it's WAY too legit to quit.

I would love for you to come join my group on Facebook --

Preppy Mom Pouts!

I have tons of color in stock, I go live, offer discounts and run giveaways!

I love to throw custom goodies in with my packages --

sometimes it's $5 Starbucks card -

sometimes it's a personalized key chain.

It's lots of fun and absolutely ZERO pressure!

and you guys --- the best part?

I'm getting a paycheck.

That's right !!!!! Seriously.

Cash Money in my pocket.

My husband was pretty shocked.

I don't think he initially believe how awesome this is.

Now he's hustling it to his friends at work for their wives! Haha.

I'm getting PAID to be silly, talk about Lipstick and post selfies.

I'm working from home -- in my car -- in the school pick up line.

on the 17th aisle of Target while my kid throws a tantrum.

At the park while my kids play.

It's AWESOME!

So if you love lipstick and make up --

and would love the chance to earn a REAL paycheck,

while your kids crawl around throwing cheerios and tantrums -- ;)

then I'd love to talk with you more about that as well!

The investment is only $55!! That's it!

It's like a costco membership for amazing lipstick!

No monthly minimums.

No auto ship.

You can order 1 or 100.

Your discount ranges from 20-50%.
You can use the discount for yourself. Or share it with your friends.

To sign up -- go to www.sengence.com
Become a Distributor.
SPONSOR ID: 236647

It's SO simple! If I can do it -- you can do it.

for real.

OK! So I promise to try and post more DIY's,

and more fun kid crafts!

I've missed you guys!

So, what have YOU been up too???

Make your Own SNOW PAINT!

2013-12-10T10:56:00.002-06:00

I know it's been awhile since I've actually blogged ...

but it's been a little crazy around here!

I'm pretty sure it has to do with these three ...

Yup ... THREE!

Sweet Thatcher is here and I'm slowly adjusting to my new normal.

Three boys. Three and under.

with a husband that is always deploying.

Pray for me, my friends! ;)

Oh and we're also snowed in right now.

and the boys (and I) were getting cabin fever.

So we braved the cold today and went outside.

and we painted the snow --

and it was pretty awesome.

and the boys LOVED it.

and it was SOOOOOOOO ridiculously easy.

So I just HAD to log in and share it with you quick.

Especially since it looks like the majority of the country is experiencing winter weather! :)

Except Florida of course.

but we hate florida, haha. {kidding, kidding}

So here goes ...

First you need some kind of squeeze bottle.

I used these Mini Wilton ones that I bought at Michaels (because I plan on using them tomorrow to decorate cookies for a playgroup I'm hosting). but you could also use water bottles with a squeeze top, mustard squeeze things for picnics, whatever you have on hand basically.

Now are you ready for this? It's SO simple and quick.

(and "simple" in the world of my impatient kiddos is pretty much GOLDEN!)

Fill your squeeze bottles with water and add some drops of food coloring.

That's it.

Now admire these beauties for the two seconds that your kids let you...

Bundle up those cabin fevered, impatient cuties.

Take that paint outside ...

and start creating those masterpieces ...

Then come back inside and warm those cold hands by the fire! :)

Note: This entertained my kids (3.5 and 2) for about 45 minutes. It would have probably entertained them longer but a) they were cold and b) I was getting tired of re-filling the bottles every two seconds. SO if you have them -- bigger squeeze bottles would be better for your little aspiring snow Picasso. I did about 4-6 drops of food coloring for each bottle. However for the blue, 1-2 drops is plenty. Otherwise it starts to turn black. We also tried purple - it didn't really work for us, but I'm terrible at mixing colors, haha. You'll probably have better luck.

If you try this, I'd LOVE to see pictures!

You can find us HERE on Facebook!

Trick to {SIMPLE} Water Bottle Labels!

2013-09-13T08:57:00.001-05:00

I {adore} water bottle labels ...

I just think they are such a fun way to personalize a party!

A fun little touch that goes the extra mile.

Only problem -- sometimes they can seem like they take an extra 45 miles.

Or cost an extra 45 Dollars.

No bueno. I need quick & cheap. ;)

I've made several different kinds of labels over the years ...

I've made "traditional" ones ...

where you print the labels and then cover them with clear tape.

But I think those take FOREVER and isn't necessarily that cost effective.

{ink is expensive!}

(see more Mustache Bash pics here)

I've also made some using a circle punch and some hot glue.

These are super simple & cute but still require a lot of printer ink.

(see more Hungry Caterpillar First Birthday here.)

So this is my NEW favorite way!

The trick?

DUCT TAPE!!!

Seriously y'all. It's genius.

Duct Tape now comes in SOOOO many patterns and it's water proof! :)

(and it's less than $3 with a coupon)

and you just wrap and go ... easy peesy cheapy breezy!

My perfect kind of project.

Simple, right?

2nd Birthday: Pirate Party

2013-09-03T20:17:00.002-05:00

This little peanut just turned two ...

Time really does go by SO fast!

He LOVES Pirates --

so of course we decided to have a Pirate Party!

Note: I made the number 2 Embroidered Pirate Shirt -

if you are interested in purchasing custom birthday shirts - come visit me on Facebook!

There was a little birthday location drama --

I booked a local Pirate-themed splash park - but the day before I went to visit,

and it was DISGUSTING. I will spare you all the yucky details --

but I canceled our reservation at the park and we hurried along with Plan B.

Our house.

We didn't have time to do much outdoors ...

at the last minute we rented the bounce house and tables & chairs!

The tent was a Lowe's purchase two years ago ($80) and we've used it TONS.

The banner is from Hobby Lobby and the balls were Target clearance after 4th of July!

The table cloths are just fabric that I bought at Hobby Lobby - didn't even hem, just threw them on. I've since used the fabric for the boys nap mats - so it wasn't a waste! ;)

Upon arriving -- every kid received a goodie bag with a pirate hat, eye patch, sword, pirate tattoo, necklace and some chocolate treasure. (ordered everything from Amazon).

The party was at 10 am ... so we served Brunch.

Brunch food is super affordable and every body likes it.

It's also super easy -- and doesn't require a ton of cooking! ;)

Win, Win, Win. ;)

I just did a variety -- Donuts, Donut Holes, Lucky Charms Cereal, Muffins, Quiche, Fruit Cups, Yoghurt Shakes for kids, Yoghurt bar for adults, Pop Tarts and gold fish.

Since most of our friends are blessed with kids that SLEEP IN ...

{how do they get so lucky?}

We had lots of coffee and mimosas to wake everyone up!

P.S. Those Starbucks Party Packs are AWESOME for parties.

They cost about $15 and serve about 15 adults -- totally worth it.

We also had orange juice, juice boxes and water for the kiddos.

Let me tell you something friends ...

unless you own a bakery - or just LOVE to bake ...

store bought cupcakes/cakes are where it's at.

I bought 24 cupcakes and a tiny striped "smash cake" from a local bakery!

Then I made them cute by adding DIY Cupcake Toppers

and a plastic Pirate Ship from the playroom.

so easy, so delicious, so stress-free!

I never do much in the form of "party entertainment" ...

For kids this age (toddlers) -- the bounce house and outdoor toys are normally enough ...

However, we did play one game!

Pin the mustache on the pirate!

Party classic - the kids loved it.

I also picked up two prizes at the Dollar Store - one boy winner, one girl winner.

The party was SO much fun, a little HOT, but still fun!

and the most important part ...

Little H had a blast! ;)

For day he kept asking if it was his "birthday time" again.

I'll share tomorrow how I did all the DIY projects ...

Cupcake Toppers, Water Labels, Pirate Game, etc.

So come check back!

and here's a post I wrote for his 1st birthday last year!

and his first birthday banner!

Toddler Fun: Bathtub target practice

2013-07-19T08:17:00.002-05:00

It's Summer.

It's Raining.

It's hot.

and my kids are BORED.

{oh and I'm 7.5 months pregnant}

and I needed something {easy} to keep them from dumping out all the pretzels.
and crushing the packaging peanuts.
and ripping their light out of the wall.
{all of which happened in about 45 minutes yesterday morning}

So I had an idea ...

Yup. Good 'ol Target practice.

This is seriously so simple.
{remember I'm 7.5 pregnant. It's hot. and raining. so I'm basically useless}

The best part?
This entertained my 3.5 and {almost} 2 year old for 45 minutes.
{which is basically forever in toddler time}

All you need is a spray bottle and some targets.

I drew some "targets" (with a sharpie) on contact paper that I had laying around.

{Dollar Tree sells contact paper & spray bottles!}

Then I gave them the water bottles and let them loose ...

Wild Man requested a bad guy to shoot.
This is what he got ...

{I told you I wasn't feeling super motivated}

This was SO easy and the boys had SO much fun.

But their favorite part was trying to drink the water! ;)

We've also done something similar outside last summer ...

you can check that out here.

How do you keep your kids entertained in the summer?

3 Things Thursday.

2013-05-23T22:26:00.002-05:00

I'm thinking about starting a new little "series" --

called Three Things Thursday.

I'll post about any random three things.

Maybe it's a picture I took of the kiddos,

maybe it's a store I love to shop,

maybe it's an item I can't live without.

Every week they'll be different -

depending what's on my mind.

So let's get started, shall we?

1. The human heart after disaster strikes.

We currently live in Moore, OK and if you've been watching the news at all - you know we were recently hit with a HUGE tornado. The devastation is tremendous - houses everywhere are leveled - people have lost everything - parents have lost their children. It's just terrible - I really can't even believe how bad it truly is. But all around you can find the good. When disaster strikes, people pull together. Shelters and hot meals are provided, needs are met and people are truly loved. We the people become the hands & feet of Jesus. We stick together. It's amazing to hear the stories of survival. The stories of generosity. The stories of strength.

2. Later Alligator Boutique

You can find them here on Facebook.

I LOVE the idea of finding amazing fabulous PREPPY clothes for a fabulous price! I also love being able to shop a "consignment" sale without having to load my crazies in the car and scrounge through racks! At Later Alligator Boutique I can shop from my living room - while my kids are asleep and I'm catching up on Nashville. I just ordered some ADORABLY PREPPY Gap shorts for little H! :) Go check it out! You won't be disappointed!

3. San Diego.

We just got back from a 6 day Family Vacation to Southern California. We visited some of our best friends, went to the zoo, Sea World, Temecula, the beach. It was all SO amazing and SO beautiful. Dear Navy - please send us to San Diego. pretty please?

What are 3 things you are loving today?

The {BIG} excuse!

2013-04-18T22:09:00.001-05:00

So I'm sure you've noticed I've been MIA for - well, FOREVER basically.

and I'm SOOO sorry.
I really am ... I miss "talking" to y'all.
but I promised you I had a good excuse --
so here goes ...

HAHA!
and growing a little human is hard work.

Friends - I've been SICK.
so, so sick.

and TIRED.

so, so tired.
{like I could fall asleep at the stop light, tired}
oh and so, so HUGE.
I'm already pulling out the maternity clothes. *tear*

I don't remember feeling this tired with the other two pregnancies--

{but I guess I didn't have two toddlers to chase the other times}
Or maybe it's different because it's a GIRL?!?! <3
(wishful thinking? you bet.)

Either way -- I'm 14.5 weeks today and feeling a little better!
I'm {slowly} gaining some of my energy back!
{like enough energy to paint ONE peg doll}
and the nausea has subsided a bit.
{I now only throw up 2-3 times a day!}

So I'm soo sorry friends that I haven't been around.
There has been NOOO crafting/DIY'ing around here.
{except that one peg doll of course}
and there's been nothing to report.
{except the close relationship I've formed with the toilet}
There's definitely been NO cooking or cleaning -
heck, there's barely been any showering or teeth brushing ...

But this sweet little thing ...

oh he/she will be sooo sooo worth it. ;)

So that's my excuse and I'm sticking to it.

What you have you been up too?
What have I missed?
Did you miss me?! ;)

{GIVEAWAY}: Personalized Hooded Towel

2013-03-04T08:01:00.000-06:00

UPDATE: This giveaway is closed.
The winner is LAGEAN ELLIS!!!
CONGRATS!!

Please email me within 24 hours to claim your prize!
Thanks so much to everyone who entered! Stick around for more awesome giveaways!

Have y'all heard of the shop Stars and Hearts Sewing?

If not, you better go check it out!

They specialize in personalized hooded animal towels, specialty onesies (think holidays and TWINS!), adorable tooth fairy pillows and so much more! She's a fellow military spouse (and friend!) --and I just love it when I can support military spouses and shop homemade at the same!

The shop is seriously amazing and filled with a plethora of wonderful things --
but my personal favorite are the hooded animal towels ...

There is nothing cuter than a sweet baby after a bath.

Make that a sweet baby wrapped in a cute towel ...

and you'll just want to eat them up. ;)

Seriously, is this monster hooded towel not the cutest?

and very fitting for my little monster who it belongs to! ;)

but my favorite part is definitely the embroidered name on the back ...

Embroidered names are a Preppy Mom must of course! ;)

The quality of these towels are amazing. They are seriously SO soft!

{I secretly want to use it after I get out of the bath!}

and maybe I do. Don't Judge. ;)

Here are a few of the MANY designs that Stars and Hearts Sewing has to offer ...

That pig is just killing me! SO cute! ;)

and that elephant ... LOVE!

Would you like to win your own hooded animal towel?

Did I mention the personalization is included?! :)

Check out the giveaway below!!!

Note: This giveaway is only open to PUBLIC followers of DOPM.

{you can follow via Google Friend Connect on the right}

Ships to US only. Winner will be chosen using random.org.

Good luck!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Giveaway: Movie Tickets + General Mills Cereal

2013-02-24T20:54:00.004-06:00

Do you LOVE the movies?

Do you LOVE cereal?

Well, I have the perfect deal for you ...

Buy two specially marked General Mills cereals (like the ones pictured above) and you can get a $12 movie voucher! Can't beat that, right? Breakfast and a movie! ;)
Oh and you can coupons for the cereal to score an even better deal!

So here's how it works:

For a limited time (11/08/2012 – 12/06/2013) you can receive a free movie ticket when you purchase two specially marked packages of General Mills cereals including Cheerios, Cinnamon Toast Crunch, Lucky Charms, Trix, Cocoa Puffs, Golden Grahams, and Reese’s Peanut Butter Puffs.

After purchasing two participating cereals, go here to enter the unique code found inside each box of cereal and print-off your free Movie Cash certificate (good for one admission of up to a $12 value at participating theaters).

Go here to find a participating movie theater in your area

Then Enjoy the movie!

My husband used his movie tickets to go see the new James Bond and I'm saving mine for the perfect chick-flick and a night out with the girls! What would you go see?

Oh and as for the cereal ...

We received Trix ...

which makes the perfect snack for busy moms on the go!

The boys LOVE it.

and I love that they love it! :)

So now it's your turn ...

Do you want to win a box of cereal and two free movie tickets?

Like my Facebook page and leave a comment saying you did so!

(or if you already do, this is a freebie for you).

Good luck!

"Disclosure: The information, products and General Mills gift pack were provided by General Mills through MyBlogSpark."

Toddler Fun: Pom Pom Bath

2013-02-11T08:10:00.001-06:00

It's time for another Toddler approved activity! ;)

If your house is anything like mine ... sometimes there are melt downs days.

Days where the ONLY thing that keeps you sane and your kids alive --

IS A BATH!!

{yup, even it's 1:00 in the afternoon!}

But this ain't your grandma's bath ...

this is WAY more fun!

This involves Pom Pom's - some with sparkles! ;)

{these were just ones we had in our craft closet but you can buy a big bag at the Dollar Store}

I just dumped them all in the bath ...

the boys were SO excited!!

Wild Man immediately started collecting them in his cup ...

and then lining them up.

We talked about patterns, colors and sizes.

Then they started throwing them! ;)

and then Wild Man started putting them in his "boat" (aka muffin pan) to save them.

We also added bubbles and had a "scavenger hunt" ...

The boys seriously LOVED this activity --

{just FYI - Wild Man is three and Little H is 18 months old}

and the best part is that the pom pom balls dry out -

so you can re-use them for next time! ;)

We've played with them every night this week!

So what's your favorite bath time activity?

Have you tried DIY Bathtub Paint?

Here's an old post I did about that ...

(click here for link)

Celebrate it: Choo Choo! Train Party!

2013-02-04T06:00:00.000-06:00

Wild Man just turned three ---

which makes me so SO sad! :(

He is growing up SO fast!

We had his party at the local OKC Railway Museum ....

and it was the PERFECT "Boy" party!

Seriously, it was an awesome location!

We rented out the "Party Caboose" ...

The caboose itself was pretty awesome, so the decorations were very simple -- a red polka dot table cloth (4 yds of Fabric from HL using 40% coupon), chalkcloth fabric placemats with a piece of chalk-- and a few pennant banners hanging from the ceiling! ;)

I also ran some wooden train tracks down the center of the table ...

which served as both decoration and entertainment...

and that was it ... seriously simple!

Upon arrival, each kid received a conductor's hat, a train whistle and a red bandana.

(ordered from Amazon via Oriental Trading)

The little trains were .29 at HL and I just painted them with chalkboard paint!

Then there was the Paint-A-Train station ...

I ordered the trains from here ...

The kids loved painting them and then they got to take them home! :)

Then there was the food table ...

There were Turkey and Cheese sandwiches cut out like little trains ...

Railroad Fruit Kabobs ...

and adorable Chevron Fry containers filled with Veggie Straws ...

There was also hummus, veggies, spinach-artichoke dip, pita chips & chicken salad croissants!

I found this little train at the thrift store for .49!

The lunch boxes were ugly Spider Man ones I spray painted red!

Oh and then there was cake!

it was DELICIOUS! {and super cute!} :)

Wild Man loved blowing out the candle! :)

But THIS was MY favorite part ...

A Vintage suitcase cooler!

I found this suitcase at the thrift store for $5 ... I just put a garbage bag in the bottom, some ice and the drinks! I just LOVED how it turned out!
Oh and that banner? It's leftover from little H's first birthday!

All of the party printables (including the invites!) came from Party Popper Studio!
They were SO wonderful to work with and seriously?
Trains + Chevron = so perfect!

The water bottles had coordinating labels --

as did the cupcake toppers ...

the mini ice creams ...

and the Favor Bags! :)

{which included a wooden train and Thomas Fruit Snack!}

{so make sure you check out Party Poppers for your next party, the prices are awesome!}

But the BEST part of the party was NOT the decorations ... not even close!

It was the trains!

The running, the exploring, the climbing, the pretending.

It was exactly what I had in mind!

Boys just being Boys...
on a perfectly beautiful February day!

Where was the coolest place you've had a party?

Repurposed TV Console turned Buffet Bar

2013-01-30T21:44:00.000-06:00

I love a good Road kill Recue!

{and this just may be my favorite!}

Picture this ... it's starting to rain, we're driving down the road and I see this bad boy sitting pretty on the curb. {Please tell me I'm not the only one that loves Big Trash Wednesday?} I scream at my husband to slam on the breaks and I hop out before the car is fully stopped ... I make my husband get out because it's SUPER heavy (as in solid wood heavy -- holla!!) and load it in the back of the swagga wagon! Did I mention that he was SO embarrassed!? ;) He was! But it ended up being pretty sweet -- it was handmade in a little town south of OKC by an old woodworker!
{They don't make things like they used too!}

So here she is BEFORE:

Not the prettiest thing you've ever seen, huh? ;)

but I knew exactly what I wanted to do with her ... ;)

I headed to Lowe's and grabbed 4 Legs + 4 Leg Brackets.

I drilled them in each corner ...

and then screwed in all four legs!

{I love how these legs look a little Mid-Century!}

A little primer + Oops $5 Teal Paint ...

and I had this beauty ...

Yay! The perfect Bar/Buffet.

{with the world's ugliest kitchen tile - boo!!}

It serves several purposes for us ...

The under-cabinet wine bottle mount fits perfectly on the top shelf to hold wine bottles ...

and then I ordered some wine glass holders off Amazon for the inside cabinets! :)

{hidden away from little, clumsy fingers ...}

The top shelf holds some of my cookbooks ...

and the bottom basket holds our summer, outdoor plasticware!

I also added the same hardware as our cabinets --

and used the same Oops Paint as my DIY Console Table.

What do you think??

and just because I love a good BEFORE and AFTER ...
here they are side by side --

So what have you rescued from the trash lately?
What would you have done with this awesome piece?

Make it: Portable Ironing Board

2013-01-29T09:22:00.004-06:00

I am slowly getting my "craft corner" in order ...
I can't wait to show you!!

and since I only get ONE wall of the playroom -

I'm having to be really creative on space!

I do have a large closet, so that's very helpful in organizing my stuff -

but when it comes to 'work space' - I'm pretty limited!
So when I saw this old school "media cart" for sale on Craigslist -- it had to be mine.

It was only $15 and in really great shape!!!
I knew it would be perfect for portable storage.
and the best part?

These outlets!!
A DIY girl can NEVER have too many outlets! ;)

So then I decided to turn the "top" into a solid surface --
(using scrap wood from my pile)

one that doubles as an Ironing Board! *YAY*

I had all the supplies laying around -- scrap plywood, batting and fabric!

I simply wrapped the plywood (that I cut to size) like a present with some thermal batting, regular batting and Fabric!

I found that spray glue worked best to keep it from shifting.

and then used my staple gun for the sides!

Flip it over -- and that's it! ;)

A portable ironing board surface!

This cart has proven to be WAY better than I originally planned.

It holds my Silhouette, my Iron, and SO much more --

plus it gives me the extra work space needed for projects ...

and then when I'm done, I just slide it back in the closet - out of the way.

This idea could work for several items, even without the cart.
You could "upholster" any flat surface in your craft room to turn it into an ironing board.
A lazy susan would also be cool and very easy to move around!

So what are you going to turn into an ironing board?

Winner: Daddy Dolls Giveaway

2013-01-28T08:41:00.002-06:00

Is the suspense killing you?

Are you ready to see who won the Daddy Dolls Giveaway?

Here it is ....

Jenni, Congrats!

Shoot me an email within the next 24 hours to claim your prize!

Thanks so much to everyone that entered!

Tomorrow I'll be launching a new giveaway!

{and.it's.GOOD!}

Note: The winner was selected using Rafflecopter and Random.org - and checked for validity.

If winner does not respond within 24 hours, a new winner will be selected.

Make It: {Yummy} Green Smoothie

2013-01-26T12:13:00.001-06:00

If you follow me on Facebook or Instagram -

then you have probably noticed all the "green smoothie" I've been posting! :)

I know, they look GROSS!

But I promise they are SOOO good! ;)

and they are SO good for you!

Let me start by staying that I am in NO WAY a health freak. I would rather eat a double cheeseburger over a salad any day of the week ... but the fruit and yoghurt totally overpowers the spinach - and you really can't taste it! These work perfect for me - because there is no other way I would eat an entire cup of spinach or fruit for breakfast! ;)

So are you brave enough to try one?

Here's what you need:

1 cup of Fresh organic baby Spinach

1 cup of Frozen Fruit (I like the one with mango, pineapple & peaches)

{I also add fresh blueberries or strawberries when I have them}

1 Light & Fit Yoghurt (any flavor)

.5 cup of Trop50 Orange Juice (less sugar than regular)

2 Tsp of Raw FlaxSeed

Combine it all in your mason jar! :)

and blend away ...

(add more OJ/water if needed)

Preppy Mom Tip: A mason jar fits perfectly on {most} blenders!

It's kind of awesome because you only dirty one glass.

and there you have it ...

a delicious Green Smoothie!

I PROMISE it tastes better than it looks!!

There are also SO many different varieties - bananas would be delicious (but my son is allergic so we leave them out). You could use ice and water instead of OJ if you want it to be even less calories! You could add Whey Protein Power. The sky is the limit!

So are you a smoothie fan?

What's your favorite combo?

Tutorial: Cut Fabric with Silhouette SD

2013-01-23T06:00:00.000-06:00

I've had my Silhouette SD for over two years --

and I've never used it to cut Fabric.

Until last night...

and now it's all I want to do! ;)

Do you want to cut some fabric too?

Well let's start cutting ... shall we?!

What you need:

Silhouette SD (or the Cameo if you're super lucky)

Heat N Bond (or Wonder Under)

Fabric Scraps

Iron the Heat N Bond (or wonder under) to the backside of your fabric.

Wait for it to cool off and then pull off the backing ...

Place the fabric on the top of your mat (right side UP) and load it in your machine!

I ordered THIS blade for Fabric.

To cut cotton/lightweight fabric, twist it to "5".

Design your image in the Silhouette software!

A Speed of 5 and Thickness of 33 worked perfect for me!

Hit cut and let the machine do all the work ... :)

Gently pull the corners to reveal the perfectly cut fabric!

Seriously look at that ... AMAZINGNESS! :)

Now place it on your shirt (or whatever) and iron it down! ;)

If you used Heat N Bond Ultra then you don't need to sew it ...

if you used regular, give it a quick stitch for extra durability! ;)

I'm kind of obsessed ...

It was just SO easy!

Oh - and has your cutting mat seen better days?

Well - tomorrow I'll show you how to make it sticky again! ;)

Giveaway: Hug-A-Hero Daddy Dolls

2013-01-21T11:59:00.002-06:00

I've mentioned it a few times on the blog - but for those of you that are new around here --

we're a {proud} military family.

A Navy Family to be exact.
and Home is where the Navy takes us ...
even if that means OKALHOMA! ;) lol.

My husband flies for the Navy and for the next three years,
he will be "deploying" 3 weeks gone, 3 weeks home ...

and while that deployment schedule "SEEMS" to be a little more ideal than the typical 7-12 month deployment, it's still hard.

Very hard actually.

It's hard for us all to get our rhythm -
the constant change ... the in and out.

It's hard on me - but it's really hard on the boys!!

One week Daddy is home and they get used to it ...
(and they love it!!)

and then, BAM!

He's gone again.

Then home again.

Then gone again.

Then home again.

Then gone again.

For three years.

You get the picture, right? ;)

Basically, it just stinks!

(as do ALL deployments - military spouses are pretty much rock stars)

and you see, these two little monkeys are still a little too young to understand why...

"Daddy go fly again? Daddy fly home soon?" are questions I hear WAY too often.

They break my mama heart more than just a little bit ...

So when SEVERAL of my friends started posting pictures on Facebook of their kids with Daddy Dolls, I was intrigued ... I knew it would be something that my boys would LOVE! They love looking at pictures of "daddy" when he's gone - and this was so much better! This they could carry around with them, take to bed with them, hug after they got shots.

So I ordered two ...

Our Daddy Doll's arrived very quickly! Honestly, it took me longer to convince my husband to pose for the picture than it did for our Daddy Doll's to arrive! ;) The quality is amazing (it's not just a picture printed on some fabric)! They are made with so much love.

But the TRUE test was the boys ...

and they are smitten!

They have two different size options ...

I chose the large one for my {almost} three year old and the smaller one for my {almost}18 month old. They also have an optional voice recorder, which I think is really cool!

My favorite part is the fabric options on the back! You know I love fabric!

I chose a basic red, white and blue but they have a TON of different fabric -- even girly colors! ;)
{oh how I need a girl!}

So guess what?!
I'm giving away one!!!!
Yup, one lucky reader will receive a gift certificate for a LARGE Daddy Doll.
{which includes shipping and fabric choice!}
Isn't that awesome?!

You can enter here:
a Rafflecopter giveaway

Good luck!

p.s. Do you already have a Daddy Doll? I'd love to hear about your experiences!
p.p.s. - Not in the military? No problem!
I'm sure you know someone who is - this would make an AWEOMSE gift!
Don't know anyone in the military? No problem!
These are for heroes of all kinds -- Firefighters, Police Officers, etc! ;)

I'm back. (again)

2013-01-20T13:09:00.002-06:00

Hey Y'all.

I'm back! For good - I promise! ;)

I didn't plan on taking this long of a blog break -- actually, I didn't plan on taking one at all ... Life just kind of happened. and the Holidays. and Vacation. and next thing I knew - I hadn't posted since BEFORE Christmas!! I'm sorry to leave so unexpectedly and REALLY appreciate all of you who stuck around! ;) We even have some new friends - so that is AWESOME!!! Welcome!
and to celebrate how AWESOME y'all are ... I have two great giveaways this week!!! One on Monday and one on Wednesday!!

You won't want to miss them. I can promise you that!

See you tomorrow!

Make It: Simple Ribbon Christmas Shirt

2012-12-11T22:46:00.003-06:00

This is another one of those "Dear Santa, I need a girl" crafts!

Seriously? How cute is this Ribbon Christmas Tree Shirt?

and the best part is that it's EASY!!!

and could potentially be no-sew, so that makes it even better!!

Ready for the Tutorial?

Here we go ...

Collect miscellaneous ribbon and cut to desired length!

Then use a lighter to "fray-check" the edges! This step is super important!

Now you need this... Heat N Bond Hem Tape.

You can find it here or at Hobby Lobby, Michaels, etc.

I bought the "REGULAR" strength because I planned on sewing over it.

If you want a no-sew version buy the "ULTRA".

Place the hem tape under the ribbon and iron it on your shirt!

For the thicker ribbon, I used two pieces of hem tape.

Then just stitch around the rectangle.

Unless you used the ultra hem tape - in that case, don't sew! ;)

It will ruin your machine! Trust me.

Now top your tree -- vintage buttons, a star, whatever you want!

and that's it! ;)

you have a SUPER simple Christmas Tree Shirt for your little Christmas beauty!

Make a matching bow and you have the perfect outfit!

Merry Christmas!!

The Parent I thought I'd be.

2012-12-09T22:11:00.001-06:00

This made me laugh.

Yup, I'm looking at you ... you wild child almost three year old.

It just doesn't matter.

2012-12-05T08:01:00.000-06:00

It just doesn't matter.

Not in a negative way.
Not in a callous way.

But in an honest way.

In a "I've got bigger fish to fry" kind of way.

It all started when I picked Wild Man up from school the other morning. As I was walking out the door, the teacher grabbed my hand and said "Nelson is just so caring! When the other kids cry, he always goes over to help them. He brings them water or tries to read them a book. It's very sweet.".

My first reaction was - My child? My Wild Child that can't be in the same room as his brother without using him as a punching bag? Are you sure you're talking about MY KID?"

But then I smiled.
Caring. Empathetic.
I was so proud of him.

So then I got to thinking about my parenting style.

{if there really is even such a thing?}

I started thinking about WHY I make the daily decisions that I make...

about why I let them eat way too many fruit snacks -

and drink way too many juice boxes.

I started thinking about why I haven't started potty training my almost 3 year old.

and why I haven't taught him his alphabet.

I started thinking about why I haven't let my youngest cry it out.

and why I haven't taken his pacifier away.

and the answer is simple ... because those things don't matter.

Because in the grand scheme of life, those things are not important.

What is important?

What does matter?

Love.

Teaching them how to LOVE their Jesus.

and how to love LIKE Jesus.

Teaching them to be grateful.

and thankful.

{for they are so, so blessed!}

Teaching them to give back.

Teaching them to think of others.

To be respectful.

and Chivalrous.
To open doors.
To say thank you.

To take turns

and just be good stewards.

Those are the things that matter.

You see, sometimes, I think we get carried away (myself included!!!) - we're trying so hard to be the perfect "Pinterest" mom. We're so busy trying to potty train them by two, have them reading by 3 and writing cursive at 4, that we forget the big picture.
We forget what is most important.

We forget our main role as a parent is to LOVE them.

To love our children like Jesus loves us.

(and by the way, that is really hard to do!!).

Because Jesus loves us unconditionally.

No matter how many times we mess up.

No matter how many times we say or do the wrong thing.
No matter how often we loose our tempers.
(which for me is way too often!!!)

So you see -- those other things don't matter.

Not to me. Not really anyways.

It doesn't matter if you cloth diapered or you didn't.

If doesn't matter if you breast fed or bottle fed.

It doesn't matter if your kid is 4 with a pacifier.

(even though your dentist may hate you, *wink*)

We're all just doing our best.

We all just want the best for our kids.

and what's best for my kids may be different than your kids....

but one thing is the same.

Jesus's love for us.
and the way Jesus wants us to love others.
(especially our children)

I really need to remember this as the Holiday season {quickly} approaches --
when everything gets crazy busy and my temper tends to get short.
When I have "SO much to do" - none of which is really important!
When I want everything to be perfect, go smoothly and just as I planned.
Those things just don't matter.

My only job right now is to help mold these two precious little hearts I've been given.
Even on the days when they AREN'T so precious!
Especially then.

So how about you?
Do you find yourself struggling with this?
or are you just perfect!? ;) haha.

The Gallery Wall Reveal!

2012-12-04T08:23:00.000-06:00

Are you new here? I'd love for you to come join me on Facebook!
You can find out first about giveaways, discounts for my shop, etc!

So remember about ten years ago when I posted pictures of my Gallery Wall Inspiration? (If you don't remember, you can read it again here!). Well, I've finally gotten around to finishing it!

About dang time right! The problem was my budget!
I decided to mix Canvas Pictures with Frames -
Those bad boys are pricey!
so every time there was a Canvas Groupon, I snatched it up.
The majority of my Canvas come from Canvas Zoo!
The quality is amazing and the shipping is fast! ;)

So here you go, for your viewing pleasure -- Our Galley Wall!

Right now it is currently centered around the couch ... but I love that I could add to either side - and eventually that whole back wall! ;) Yes, that's a BIG wall. Yes, I like pictures! Yes, my husband thinks I'm crazy, but I like the idea of eventually filling that whole back wall with random photos and canvas and things that mean a lot to our family.

Isn't that the purpose of a home? To make it your own?

I debated mixing canvas and frames ...

and I'm so glad I did ...
I love the dimension and texture that the canvas adds.

There's also a few randoms in there ... like this number 4.

Because there are 4 of us ... duh. My husband didn't get it! ;)

This is my favorite picture of the hubs and I ... I got to be a "naval aviator" for a day and Taxi the plane on the runway! It was so fun but I'm a terrible pilot! ;)

and here's a close - up!

We currently have 4 of those large 16x20 Canvas up ... I think one more in the top left corner would really balance it out - so I'm on the hunt for another Groupon!

Oh and this Coffee Table?

It's totally not childproof, but I don't care! I LOVE it!
(It's the Aiden Coffee Table from World Market and besides our couch, recliner and that bookshelf below it's the ONLY furniture in our house that we bought new! The rest was given to us or thrifted!)

This bookshelf is an important one ...

It holds the Diapers ...

The books ....

and the "date night" money jar!!!

Can't survive without those things!

So there you have it -- the gallery wall!
and a cute baby and giant dog as added bonus!

So what do you think?

Do you prefer a more uniform gallery wall?
Are you not a galley wall fan?
I'd love to hear your opinions.

Oh and guess what????
On Thursday I'm giving away a canvas from Canvas Zoo!
So make sure you come back for a chance to win!!!!

Make It: JOY Canvas

2012-12-03T08:33:00.003-06:00

I LOVE simple crafts.

Crafts that take about 30 minutes are my bread and butter.

Crafts that use things I had lying around, that's the mac to my cheese.

When I pulled out all my Christmas stuff from the attic I found these JOY Letters.

I guess I made them last year?

They are just craft store wood letters that I mod podged with scrap book paper.

I also had this canvas in my HUGE pile of "extra" frames and Canvas.

It takes up SO much space in the garage, but I can't throw it away.

I MAY need them one day.

and see, today was that one day.

I simply glued the JOY letters to the canvas.

Actually I glued the J and Y to the O and then glued the J and Y to the canvas.

That's it!

A simple JOY Canvas.

It's currently sitting on my mantle to fill that big empty space ...

but it won't be staying there! ;)

I have big plans for that empty space!

Joy to the World , the Lord is come!
Let earth receive her King.