In April we had the SNAP! Conference.  I went last year...kinda as I was just getting really sick.  I WAAAAAAY over did it.  But I still had a great time, got to teach a class, and do TONS of stuff for the conference.  Seriously, it was like crack to me.  I die for that kind of thing.

This year, hubs put the foot down.  And hard!  He made me call sweet Tauni (who is over the conference) and tell her that I would not be there for anything but opening registration and my class.  It was a phone call I dreaded for weeks.  And when I hung up….I cried for an hour.

So I did get to go for registration.  There was no soft chairs to be had.  I stood for 4 hours.  (a record…) I think these are the only photos taken of me.

I’m up there on the VERY top row…..you can barely see me!

After that 4 hours….I had to come home.  I missed the parties,  and the speakers and everything.  But I did get to put on my pink shirt and turquoise zebra striped Toms.  And that made me feel really great.

The next day I got to speak on a panel about branding.  You may not know this….but it’s a SUPER big passion of mine.  I do logo design and business branding consulting through my design business Announced Design.  As tired as I was….I couldn’t pass up this chance to share my passion.  I got the most boring topic, the technical stuff.  But I love helping people learn that stuff.  I taught myself.  And I think anyone can learn.

That night I BEGGED the hubs to reconsider and let me stay overnight.  And I think (to avoid a divorce) he said yes.

But after standing for our class and sitting for dinner.  I KNEW….I just knew I had made a mistake.

Why am I sharing all this with you?

Well, there’s a BIG lesson I am trying to learn.  I used to sing a song about it back when I started taking voice lessons.

“I can’t do everything.  I know because I’ve tried.  I told myself I could.  And then found out I lied”
–Michael McLean

I’ve finally (after a year of fighting it) decided that if I can’t blog. I just can’t. It used to weigh so heavy on my mind. And now I’ve decided it will come back when I can bring it back. Even though I have a million projects and ideas in my mind…it’s probably more important to heal. And when I have energy, it’s probably more important to draw with my 6 year old. Or help my 10 year old with his homework. They both are struggling through this as much as I am. They haven’t had a real Mommy for a year now.

But even more than that…

I learned that people care about me.  I got so many hugs.  People freaked out that I was there.  Even if it was just for a few hours.  Girls left to take me home.  (girls that I love, and adore)  I realized that I might not be forgotten.  My pageviews, any revenue, my status as a blogger….they are all superficial.  And one day I can fix them.

Life is about family.  And super great friends.

• I had the opportunity to let some tears flow. (sorry if you were on the receiving end of those)
• I got some amazing pep talks.
• I laughed ’til my whole body hurt. (which just required a little extra percocet)
• I met people who were willing to share their struggles with me.
• I saw old friends who gave me soft hugs
• I never carried my own luggage.  Because someone always took it for me.
• I got to share my passions…and meet new people in the process.

We can’t do everything peeps.  If you’re in bed.  If you’re preggers.  If you’re working.  If you’re raising kids.  If you’re in school.  If you are living….you can’t do everything.  And good friends will be supportive of that.  Because that’s what friends do.  They love you just the way you are.  Shortcomings and everything.

And when I learned, a few weeks ago that my healing is not going as planned (and we’re heading back to Phoenix for more testing and possible surgery #5)  After family….I just wanted to talk to my friends. They let me whine over Skype.  And they told me how much they love me.  That’s all I needed to feel peace again.

When I came home…there was a marathon of The Golden Girls running.  I kinda love that show.  In High School we used to pretend we would be the Golden Girls one day.  Only I had to be Dorothy, because my Mom is single and I’d have to bring her along to be Sophia.  (I wanted to be Blanche…obvs.  tee hee)

So to all the amazing people at SNAP!, to my amazing friends and family, and to all my loyal readers that have waited a year with me…

“Thank you for being a friend. Travel down the road and back again. Your heart is true, you’re a pal and a confidant.  And if you threw a party.  Invited everyone you knew.  You would see…..the biggest gift would be from me.  And the card attached would say “thank you for being a friend“

Is is APRIL?? Seriously? Oh gosh…time for me moves in the weirdest way. Like super fast, and super slow at the same time. Do you think that’s the Lortab? Might be.

Today is April 1st. April Fools Day. I admit, my kids got me good when they got home. After that, it was just one ball of stupid jokes one after another. No longer funny.

The best was about 3 years ago when my Husband and I decided to tell the kids that I was pregnant. I’m not kidding. If we had this bad boy on video….we would be You Tube mega-stars. As soon as we told them they simultaneously burst into tears and wailing of “No, No, No, we don’t want a baby.”  My hubs and I looked at each other and were like….”Dude, what did we just do?”  I guess they think this house is full.  And with the looks of things….it probably is.  But seriously, it was so hilarious and disturbing.  All at the same time.

This month brings the birthday of LOTS of family members.   And my baby girl will turn 6.

It’s also the SNAP! Creative Conference. I can’t believe it’s been a year since that! And I was sick for that….and here I am….still sick. It’s a different sick. But I wanted to show up this year at my goal weight and ready to party. I’ll be lucky if I make it to a few classes.

But I’m SUPER DUPER STOKED to be speaking on branding and design for creative blogs and businesses.  I’m so SUPER passionate about this subject.  I could just come out of my skin I’m so excited.  I’m speaking on a ROCK STAR panel with my hero Miss Becki from Whippycake and a new friend (whose work is majorly impressive) Lisa from Moxie Pear Design

I know not everyone is coming, or is even interested in this subject….but it’s one of those things I’m always advocating…..find things you LOVE!  Things that make your mind swirl.  Things that make you feel like a kid again.  Things that make you want to tell the world.  Chocolate, your pet, writing, exercising, cooking, serving others, reading.  Whatever it is.  Having a passion in your life helps you get through the tough times.

Well, without further adieu… here is this month’s calendar.  I know April should be showers and flowers.  But I’m obsessed with triangles.  So that’s what you are getting.

As usual PLEASE follow the following rules for Less Cake {more frosting} printables:

• LCMF prinatables are for PERSONAL USE only. You may not re-sell, re-distribute, or claim them as your own.

• Please do not remove the watermark.
• If posting on the internet, you MUST post a link back to this website.
• Personalization, color changes, and other customizations are not available on freebie printables. They are offered “as-is”.
• The BOX printing service LCMF uses to present it’s printables requires Flash technology, therefore, you may not be able to print from some phones, tablets, and other portable devices. Please try from a stand-alone computer or laptop.
  

I’d LOVE to hear what’s sparking your imagination this month.  Are you coming to SNAP?  Are you going to try something new?  What are you going to LOVE about this month.  Remember, it’s up to you to “choose joy”.  It’s a choice.  Make the right one.  And then tell me all about it!

But in 2010 I kinda had a banner year. And I wanted to do something just for me. (and not have my kids on the internet so much) So the family blog became private and I started Less Cake {more frosting}.

You might be new to this blog and wondering why 2010 was so important to me. Or why I’m writing this post at all.

• I pretty much break it down in this post from almost EXACTLY a year ago: The One Where I Define TMI

Before that post.  I was a regular “creative” blogger.  I made stuff.  I wrote a tutorial.  I hoped someone would see it, or pin it, or whatever.  I wrote anywhere from 3-5 times a week.  And I made my family miserable with my obsession over e-mails and Facebook, and posting, and deadlines.

After that post.  I got in bed.  And pretty much stayed there. I got up sometimes. Went out sometimes. But by about 3pm I was in bed for sure.

I had my first major surgery in May.  On my birthday.

That surgery? Not so much. I got WAY worse. I got in bed and didn’t get out unless it was for a doctor appointment, or to fly to Arizona to see my specialist team.

Another surgery in Arizona in September was also a great big bust.  (the surgery was a bust….I also have a great big bust…but that’s a story for another day)

That left the big ‘ol doozie surgery.  January 8th.  In Arizona. 5 doctors. 7 hours, on a 45 degree angle (my hubs said you couldn’t see the bridge of my nose when I came out because my face was so swollen.  They also had to cut off my wedding ring. Frownie face.)

Photo Credit

So, I guess the “Elephant in the Room” is where the heck have ‘ya been?  And are you better?  And is LCMF over?

The short answers are:

• on drugs
• starting to
• not sure

I vowed at the beginning of this journey to do it right.  To learn things to become better.  And to “Choose Joy”, just like my bracelet says.  (which I still wear every day….PS)

But when I came home from Arizona, after 2 weeks there, I got a horrible kidney infection.  And was at the hospital for IV anti-biotics.

For some reason that last thing, that one little last slap in the face was all I could handle.

I told joy to get the hell out of my vocabulary because I was picked on.  And this sucked.  And I didn’t deserve it.  And my life was ruined.  And my kids were suffering.  And my marriage would never be the same.  And my friends had moved on.  And I had now gained 80 pounds.  (should I go on?  I could)

I want to say that I had an immediate overwhelming moment where I found joy again.  Right away.  But that’s not how this story goes.  I’ve felt that way for months.  Lonely. Depressed. Overwhelmed.  Picked on. Forgotten. Utterly alone.

Until just the other day when I remembered this quote.  I’ve used it before.  And I bet I’ll use it again.

 

“I have been driven many times to my knees
by the overwhelming conviction that I had nowhere to go.
My own wisdom,
and that of all about me,
seemed insufficient for the day.”
~Abraham Lincoln

 
 
I have to admit.  This didn’t fix everything.  But it did make my heart start to soften, back to the knowledge that I cannot do this on my own.  I MUST trust in those around me, as well as those above me to traverse through this life challenge I have been given.
 
My Mom (who….well…one day I will write a post on and you will want to hug her and be her BFF for life) suggested I look up a short video on our church’s website.  Now we may not be of the same faith.  But if you believe in a God.  You will benefit from this message.  I promise.  PLEASE take the time to watch it.
 
 

 
 
Our church has a conference every 6 months during which we get to hear from our leaders.  Much as the Pope does periodically.  This talk was given by Henry B. Eyring, one of those leaders.  When I heard the talk initially, I KNEW in my heart that my trial was coming, and that it was going to be a big one.

My favorite quote from this section:
 

if the foundation of faith is not embedded in our hearts….
the power to endure will crumble.
–Henry B. Eyring

 
This quote applies to all of us. Of all faiths. Of no particular religion. We must have faith to endure this life.  We must have faith in

• Ourselves
• Our families
• Our friends
• Those seen and unseen

I lost faith.  That was the problem.

Is my ordeal over?  No.  But there are people around me who KNOW that being in bed for a whole year is a hard trial.  I must have faith that they will continue to bear me up as I fight this battle.

I beg you to call upon your faith as well.  Your joy.  As you fight battles much harder than mine.  Or maybe just different.  We each have that one thing that we struggle with.

Now many of you know I live in the Salt Lake Valley in Utah.  This is my home.

It’s gorgeous, isn’t it?

I am surrounded by gigantic mountains on all sides.  I also grew up in a valley very similar.  Just smaller.  I am used to looking at mountains.  (to be honest the ocean kinda scares me.  There’s just water and water…eeek!)

The above video also mentions mountains….
I thought the mountain to climb was the surgery.  But I’m thinking the mountain to climb, is back to a new life.  And to succeed I must endure the climb.
I have no climbing gear people! I hate the outdoors! (Uh oh, some of you just unfriended me….right?)  It’s true though.  It makes you smell all….out-doors-ee.  Gah!

I digress…

It’s gonna be awful hard to climb a mountain without gear.  So I’m counting on:

• My Doctors
• My Friends
• My Family
• My Faith
• My Savior

To be my gear.  And God willing, one day….this too shall pass.  And then all I’ll be able to do is wait for the next test.  Because there always is one….. in the class we call life.

Ironically, she also adores pig meat products.  And we haven’t hidden where they come from.  She seriously loves bacon.  (I mean, really don’t most of us?)  My most favorite comment of all time came during a recent breakfast,

“Mom, why are the cutest animals so stinkin’ delicious?”

I don’t know honey.  I truly don’t.

As promised, here is your March printable calendar.  I apologize for the lack of the February one.  That hard drive crash took me way off guard.  Gratefully (but not cheaply) we were able to get back all our information.  And have since signed up for an online backup service.  So be that a warning to you children.   I never thought it would happen to me.  And sure enough…..I almost puked, no kidding.

As usual PLEASE follow the following rules for Less Cake {more frosting} printables:

•  LCMF prinatables are for PERSONAL USE only. You may not re-sell, re-distribute, or claim them as your own.

• Please do not remove the watermark.
• If posting on the internet, you MUST post a link back to this website.
• Personalization, color changes, and other customizations are not available on freebie printables. They are offered “as-is”.
• The BOX printing service LCMF uses to present it’s printables requires Flash technology, therefore, you may not be able to print from some phones, tablets, and other portable devices. Please try from a stand-alone computer or laptop.
  

I know so many of you have been patiently waiting for an entry.  Either a health update or a project or another word of the year or SOMETHING!!!!

And I want to offer my sincerest apologies.

I have started an entry 50 times.  And it just hasn’t been the right time.  It would have been pushed, and inorganic.  I PROMISE as soon as I’m ready.  I’ll be back.  Full force.  I’m working on some fun changes for the site.   And praying that everyone will be willing to come back and join our amazing community when the time comes.  I miss all of you.  And I know it seems like I should just be able to type no matter what.  But for anyone who has been on narcotics. and in large amounts of pain…they’ll be able to tell you why it’s not that easy.

Soon.  I promise.  Soon.  There’s been some improvement FINALLY in the last week.  So I have faith that healing might be on it’s way.  Even though saying that out loud makes me worry about jinxing something.

Am I working through some depression?  You betcha.  So many things to take on and figure out.  I’m not a fan of spreading that around like a depression peanut butter sandwich, however.  I know there’s a reason for everything.  And when I figure out THAT reason, that’s when I will be here to share with you.  I have a strong hope that it will coming very soon as I see small steps forward.

I have 10,000 thank yous to send.  I never even sent our Christmas Cards.  I feel like there’s no way to make up a year of a person’s life.  But I hope to very soon do my best.

You are much more likely to find me checking in over on the LCMF Facebook page.  So make sure to give it a like until we get going around here again.

And once again….shout out to all of you for your fantastic support!

Hey there LCMF Readers! I’m so happy to be here today.

This is Kristyn from Lil’ Luna. Can I just begin by saying how much I LOVE Lara?! The girl is just so gosh-dang real, and I just love her to pieces!!

I’m so thrilled about this One-Word Series of Lara’s. It’s so inspiring and has really helped me to reflect on this last year and decide what I want to work on most this year.

The word I’ve chosen for the entire year is:

I find myself not ENJOYING life enough, and I’m sick of it. I always have things to do, and that probably won’t change but I am going to make an extra effort to not take on extra responsibilities if I don’t have to, find more time to spend with my family and friends (and less time on the computer) and more time enjoying life in general, especially when things don’t go as planned.

I hate to admit it but I can often be found grumpy when I’m overwhelmed and stressed out. This can even happen when something really small and insignificant happens, which is absolutely ridiculous and I really want to change that.

There was a talk given by a leader of my church several years backed called “Finding Joy in the Journey”. I recently re-read this talk and want it to be my motto for the entire year (and the rest of my life) since it really is so profound and true. He talks about how we sometimes get so caught up in the world and often find ourselves not enjoying life and our family as much as we should. He also talks about how one day mothers will profoundly miss the fingerprints on the windows and piles of laundry that cover the house with young children. I’ve seen how quickly my own kids are growing up, and I see this already happening, and more than anything I don’t want to regret not ENJOYING that time more.

Having said that, I am going to try my darndest to just ENJOY life and everything that comes my way. I know it won’t be easy, but I know my life will be better and my family and I will be happier if I can truly embrace this new way of life.

So…

ENJOY!

Hello lovely Less Cake {more frosting} readers! I’m Jamielyn from I Heart Nap Time and I am thrilled Lara invited me back to this series. I think it is such a wonderful idea. She is pretty much the most amazing gal I know.

I can’t believe 2013 is already here. I have to admit I am kind of excited for a New Year. A fresh start! I love being able to set new goals and think of all the things I want to accomplish for the New Year.

As I thought about the one word I wanted to focus on for 2013, I reflected back on the past year. Over the past year I have felt so much love from my Savior. He has blessed me and my little family daily. In 2013 I plan on dedicating more time to serving Him. I know there are many people struggling around me and I can’t help but want to help. However, my problem is finding the time. Between a husband in medical school, two toddlers and running a small business my free time is scarce. I have found it is never convenient for someone to drop off their kids last minute… or to make a quick meal for someone who is ill. I’ve found sometimes because of these “inconveniences” I have passed up opportunities to serve the Lord and those in my community. So this year my word for 2013 is SERVE. I plan on dedicated more of my time to serving my Lord.

I really love this capture from Joshua and decided to make a print for my home to remind me of my 2013 word: SERVE. If you’d like a copy you can download the print HERE.

Thanks so much for having me today! Wishing you wonderful things for 2013!

Xo-Jamielyn

Oh my gosh!  I almost chose this one this year.  I LOVE it and I think it amazing.

Lara

I’m off to Phoenix for 3 weeks and then home to finish recovering.  I don’t know how long it will be before we speak again.  But here’s a little something to tell you I love you!

Last year, I introduced a series I like to call “One Word, One Goal”.  (and no……I did not come up with the idea…..I just think it’s great.)  I’ve been picking one word goals for 3 years now, and they have been the most uplifting, and challenging, and rewarding resolutions I’ve ever made.

2011 was: BREATHE

2012 was: REFINE

AND 2013 IS GOING TO BE:   RISE

I picked rise because it helps me face so many of the things that I am anticipating for 2013….and it challenges me to meet it and rise above it.

• arise: I gotta fight to get out of bed.  I gotta fight to make my muscles work again.  I gotta arise above the feeling that I am picked on.  I gotta arise above the depression.

• rise up:  I gotta rise up and share things that I know to be true with others.  Including rising up and speaking about the health situation I face.  I never know when I might help someone.

• glamor-rise: (okay that one is a stretch….gimmee a break)  This one is to remind me that I need to take back my self-esteem.  I have gained almost 80 pounds in a year.  80!  You guys, it is so much that I can’t even fathom.  I feel horrible about myself and I don’t know HOW I’m going to be seen in public for the next year.  Nonetheless, I can glamor-rise and try to learn to love me.  No matter what size I am.

• rise above: I feel like I need to rise above situations that bring me down.   People that aren’t 100% on my side.   I also need to rise above myself.  Rise above pettiness.  Rise above grudges.  Rise above gossip.

• sun rise: And finally, guess what?  Every day the sun comes up.  And that is something to be grateful for.  No matter where we are.  No matter if we’re in pain.  Alone. Scared. The sun is still there.  And it kind of reminds me that someone else is there for me too.  No matter what.

*If you are in an RSS reader, you may need to jump over to the blog to see the printable*

As usual PLEASE follow the following rules for Less Cake {more frosting} printables:

• LCMF prinatables are for PERSONAL USE only. You may not re-sell, re-distribute, or claim them as your own.
• Please do not remove the watermark.
• If posting on the internet, you MUST post a link back to this website.
• Personalization, color changes, and other customizations are not available on freebie printables. They are offered “as-is”.
• The BOX printing service requires Flash technology, therefore, you may not be able to print from some phones, tablets, and other portable devices.

I have struggled for weeks about what word would help me this year.  I KNOW that whether my upcoming surgery works or not I am in for a challenging year.  But I think I love the idea of rising above the challenge.  Rising above the negative reel of thoughts in my head.  Rising above myself.  And focusing on others.  It’s so full of possibility I think it’s perfection.

Happy 2013 LCMF Readers!

I’m certainly looking forward to 2013 and hoping that it is a better year for me than 2012. Although I don’t feel like 2012 was a “waste” for me.  It certainly was hard.  But let’s leave that for another post.

Every month in the year 2011 we would start of the first day with a new free printable Calendar.  They were actually something that I’ve done in my home for years, and I thought that since  I was already designing them for myself….I could share them with my readers.

2012 brought a lot less planning, a lot less organization, and a lot less ability to keep up.  Plus….I wasn’t really sure if anyone even really used them.

But I did a quick poll over on the LCMF Facebook Page…and it looks like maybe fans would like to see them come back.

As usual PLEASE follow the following rules for Less Cake {more frosting} printables:

• LCMF prinatables are for PERSONAL USE only. You may not re-sell, re-distribute, or claim them as your own.
• Please do not remove the watermark.
• If posting on the internet, you MUST post a link back to this website.
• Personalization, color changes, and other customizations are not available on freebie printables. They are offered “as-is”.
• The BOX printing service requires Flash technology, therefore, you may not be able to print from some phones, tablets, and other portable devices.

January often inspires new starts. This January is definitely a new start for me….but in a very different way. I’d LOVE for you to return Thursday the 3rd for the kick off of my 2013 One Word, One Goal series. (that gives everyone time to celebrate, recoup, and get kids back to school)

Last year’s series was absolutely one of the most inspiring times of my entire year and and I go back to read those entries often.

Have a happy New Year’s Day with your friends and family. See you on the 3rd.

My husband’s Christmas was….well…pathetic. Granted part of that was because I couldn’t get out of the house. But part was also because when you ask him what he wants he says “a Porsche and a big screen TV.”
Nice Dude.

But, of course, he made amends when he set up all of Christmas, baked our traditional breakfast cassarole, built a dolly bed, set up a gaming system. 3am bedtime, he’s a champ.

But as much as I tried, I was still just so overwhelmed with the feeling of not living up to the “Christmas” I knew I was capable of just watching it happen…was killing me. It reminded me of this amazing song from the Jim Carrey version of the Grinch:

(PS…for the record…I am a purist Grinch lover, and this is pretty much the only part I like. There. I said it)

There’s been several times in my life where this song makes so much sense. Particularly after my Dad passed away. As an 8 year old….and the daughter of a Man who made Christmas larger than life…I didn’t think Christmas could ever be good again.  It was though.  Good, and great, and amazing and magical.  All the things he loved.

But this year it was just so hard for me to find the excitement I normally have.  I love to listen to the music, but I couldn’t dance to it.  I love to buy the presents, but I couldn’t wrap them extravagantly.   I love to look at the tree, but I couldn’t put it up.

The frustration level was so high that it began to make me feel a depression that I didn’t like….AT ALL.
And here’s the spot where I tell you some amazing story of how I over came it and learned a lesson and found joy all over again.

But instead, it’s the spot where I tell you I’m sad, and scared, and if one more person implies that going through a 12 hour surgery in a week and a half means that I’ll magically be better immediately afterward, and should be jumping up and down about it……I’m sorry.
I’m not. I’m scared, and I don’t really want to be in more pain, on more drugs, and be away from my family for 3 weeks. And no matter how you train that dog….it just won’t hunt. (thanks Dr. Phil)

But I pride myself on choosing joy.
I’ve done it for over a year.
I am now in a state of  “searching for joy”.

It’s for sure not in food.
Nor is it in ignoring your phone, friends, computer, and family.
Nor is it in taking just one extra pill so you can just sleep it off.

But I swear I will find it. And I’m going to hope that it comes as I choose my “one word for 2013“.

I think about it night and day.  And some of my friends are gonna come by and share theirs with you too.  Just like last year.  It was probably the most uplifting month of blog reading I did all year.  I really was inspired.

So send out your prayers that mine will come, and give me some peace.  (and no, peace is not it)  And start thinking of yours.  Because I’m convinced that it’s is the one and ONLY way to set New Years Goals.

I’ll be back on January 2nd with mine.  (because the first is a holiday….and hubs is home….and when he’s home…..I sleep ALL DAY!)  True.  Gosh this is sad. I’m totally a Holiday Debbie Downer. Wah Wah….

Here’s to “searching for joy” instead! Deal?

I did get a Christmas tree scented plug-in for my room. And I have been known to spray my sheets with peppermint smell.

My Mom came an put up our tree and it is so lovely. It makes me so happy. Everytime I venture out of bed into the living room….I just want to stay. I need one of those ginormous bedrooms so I can have my own tree.

I gotta say though….I was pretty excited when I saw method’s new Christmas line. Dude. It MATCHES my decor.

And yes, I was like, “excuse me family…..who used this soap?  I’m supposed to be taking pictures of it.”  And my kids were all, “we washed the cookie sheet with it…it smells yummy!”

Well there you go.

Can you get a better advertisement than that?

Seriously it’s just so sweet.  You can find it at Target or on the Method website.  But I think it would make a FANTASTIC gift for a neighbor or a friend.  WAAAAY better than treats they shouldn’t be eating.  I LOVE getting little gifts I can ACTUALLY use.

And again!  Gotta give a shout out to that design.  Isn’t it TO DIE?  Plus, as always, made with recycled materials.  I don’t even think you’d need to wrap it.  Or…better yet….wrap in some clear cellophane with cute ribbons on top.  LOVE IT!

If you are a method fan:

Beginning today, December 3, we invite folks to pin their holiday wish list along with their favorite method products. To enter, simply create a Pinterest board titled “method holiday happy” and tag each of your pins with #methodholidayhappy. Our 5 favorite boards will win a bundle of method holiday goodies. Winners will be selected on Dec. 17.

Visit this link for rules and pinspiration: https://pinterest.com/methodhome/method-holiday-happy/

And as always, you can find Method ALL OVER the social media web! Check them out here:

• Method Facebook Page
• Method Twitter
• Method on Pinterest
• Method YouTube Channel

*Disclaimer–I am receiving some compensation from Method to share their company with my readers. I was also given some product to review. But I also have purchased many of the products myself. Some product photography is my own. All opinions expressed, and experiences are my own. I was in no way compelled to make a particular assessment about Method or their products.

We’ve had LOTS of fun with things like the Christmas Cheer Poster...

And the printable storybook called “Reindeer Feed“…

So I’m really excited that the 2012 collection has been added to the store. There are so many fun choices and LOTS of color options. And at just $5-$7 they not only make amazing affordable decor, they also make great gifts.

Here’s just a few of the new options:

When you visit Announced Design you will purchase a digital file that is sent to you IMMEDIATELY! You can take that file and upload it to any online printer, or put it on a jumpdrive or DVD and take it to the store.

I love using COSTCO. I upload my poster and have a 16×20 poster in my hands in one hour. (for about $8) There are also lots of online options as well. It’s just the easiest way to decorate. Love it!

Anyway, I know a lot of my loyal LCMF readers are also some of my loyal Announced Designs customers and cheerleaders. SO I’D LOVE IT IF YOU SPREAD THE WORD!

For all my loyal customers there will be a

15% discount on all orders

for the next week when you enter the code

LUVLCMF2012

(so that ends on December 11th 2012…just to be clear)

Thank you again for all your support.  I actually have a fun FREE printable coming up this week, a fun new helper to make LCMF 1000% better again, AND I won’t let you down with a free Christmas poster.  That’s been a tradition and I will keep it.  It just might take me a few more days.  Gotta give this body a rest.  All my love…..

I love the idea of this first product. The Method Ocean Plastic Soap.

It’s available exclusively at Whole Foods (not Target this time) but you can also order it on the method site. The premise is that each bottle is made with plastic that washes up in the ocean. This video explains a ton about Method’s process in producing these bottles.

I love that they are gray. They are almost submarine-ee. (what? It’s a word!)  Super cool and sleek looking!  The designers were inspired by sea urchins.  But the gray is actually the natural color that results from the recycling process.  It’s cool.  And totally on trend right now!

My husband particularly liked this one as it has a very gender neutral smell. I’m not usually a really actively “green” person. But this idea just really makes SENSE to me. Working with Method has made me so much more aware of the way my behaviors effect my environment.

If you are like me…and are ready to make a difference…not only can you buy a bottle of this fantastically environmentally conscious product, but you can go to Method’s Facebook Page and take the Ocean Pledge.  One winner will receive a $100 gift card to Whole Foods.  You gotta hurry!!!  The contest ends on November 30t!!  So just go right now while you’re thinking about it!

Method is also introducing their Smarty Dish Plus product as well.  Well, re-introducing with a new formulation.  And it’s aimed specifically at hard water.  Which I NEED!!!!  We have some of the hardest water in the nation where it live.  It’s nuts!

Plus….there’s a new Noah Video. And I think he’s hysterical!  And oddly handsome…..

I fell in love with Method for their design. Then I died when their products work SO WELL and smell like awesomeness in a bottle. And on top of that….a sense of humor? Be still my heart. This company is gonna get a proposal from me REAL SOON. Would I need to recycle a ring? Hmmmm…….

The new Smarty Dish Plus has a coupon you can use to try it:

• 15% off any Smarty Dish Plus product when ordered from Methodhome.com (or well.ca for Canada). Code to enter upon checkout is SMARTDISH

• Discount available Nov. 15-30, or while supplies last

Still, you can find Method ALL OVER the social media web! Check them out here:

• Method Facebook Page
• Method Twitter
• Method on Pinterest
• Method YouTube Channel

*Disclaimer–I am receiving some compensation from Method to share their company with my readers. I was also given some product to review. But I also have purchased many of the products myself. Some product photography is my own. All opinions expressed, and experiences are my own. I was in no way compelled to make a particular assessment about Method or their products.

If you aren’t able to watch, make sure you are on the actual blog an not in an RSS reader. Also, iPads and other devices sometimes have a hard time as well.

Or, here’s the actual link to the video directly on YouTube

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0fAMGMjNgBc

I hope you all had a fantastic holiday weekend.  And are starting to get ready for the upcoming holiday.  (It’s my favie!!!!)

I chose the rose in Marigold.  But because I was aware lots of of my blogging friends also had this bag….I decided to make mine a little “Lara-ized”.  I still love that big vinyl twisted flower.  It looks like licorice.  I want to eat it… kind of….

So it’s been quite a while that I’ve had that bag.  It’s still in FANTASTIC shape.  And I get compliments on it EVERYTIME I take it out.

But when I saw the new Georgia Bag Line I fell in love.  They are smaller than the Rose Bags and just kind of sophisticated.

AHHHHHH……Hi pretty little Georgia in Herringbone!  I know it’s doesn’t look super “Lara-fied” because it’s understated and more plain.  No loud colors….

Oh but you underestimate me friends.  I get a understated palette to begin with….so I can add……

Could you DIE over these amazing TASSELS that are the brainchild of me and my dear, dear creative buddy Miss Crap I’ve Made?  We are like a pair of creative aces!

We were inspired by a certain company that has VERY EXPENSIVE leather bags (and who’s company name rhymes with “poach”).  Their collection this year is tassel city.  And we LOVED it!

So now my plain canvas….becomes a home for a striking shot of one of the season’s MOST POPULAR colors.  That amazing green.  (and oh yes….those are removable….there are some other options as well…yipee!!)

If you are all good girls and boys….I will show you how to make your very own later this week or next.

But in the meantime….oh yes…..it’s what you were HOPING I was going to say.

Jo Totes is GENEROUSLY giving away

one bag to one lucky LCMF reader.

(and don’t you dare let me down….so she’ll want to come back and visit!  Tell your friends!  It’s Christmas for crying out loud!)

Follow the instructions in the giveaway to get your entries.  You can BET I’ll be checking before I give this to someone who fibbed about their entry…so make sure no fibbing!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

*Disclaimer–I received this bag complimentary from Jo Totes. However I have also purchased a bag from them with my own money previously. Product photography is my own. All opinions expressed, and experiences are my own. I was in no way compelled to make a particular assessment about Jo Totes or their products.

Beyond that I DON’T DO SCARY.
Because I’m a scaredy cat.

Artwork via

Back in the day, my Dad left me bawling outside Snow White’s Scary adventure because I didn’t want to see the witch. I was probably like 6. And a little prone to drama. (what? me? Drama?)

But lately, I’ve been feeling very scared. And not about the demented circus haunted house that they have down the street.

• I’m scared that my life has changed forever, and that it’s not repairable.
• I’m scared that I will never be healthy again
• I’m scared that my children are being permanently damaged by my illness
• I’m scared that we won’t be able to shoulder the upcoming surgical costs
• I’m scared that people are “over it” and I’m going to be all alone
• I’m scared of being on these kind of drugs for this amount of time
• I’m scared that whatever my calling in life is….I’m not going to be able to do it.
• I’m scared that friendships may be changed forever
• I’m scared that this blog that I poured years and unmentionable hours into….is dying a slow death

It kind of reminded me of one of my favorite poems from Shel Silverstein.

CLICK THE ABOVE ILLUSTRATION
TO HEAR MR. SILVERSTEIN READ THE POEM “WHATIF”

Now seriously, some of the things I’m scared of are legit.  But most aren’t.  Like how I worry that people who are speaking another language behind me at the store.. somehow they might be saying rude things about me.  (I can’t believe I just admitted that….but it’s true)

It reminds me of this one time, when my well meaning mother, had the Fire Department come and do a family personal readiness class in our home.  Well with 4 kids under 10 what that’s gonna get you lady is….”What if there’s an earthquake?” “What if the hill lights on fire?” “What if we have a fire and can’t get out?” “What if I get hit by lightening?”

I believe that night we all slept in her room.  And the last question was answered with……”well I guess you’ll die then.”
“Ummm….excuse me?”
“Yeah….if you want to live your life in fear like that then you might as well figure out what the worst outcome is. And lots of time it’s “well, I guess you’ll die then.”

A lot of my fears have to do with what other people think of me.  Do you know that my favorite sound is applause?  Because it tells me I’m okay.  I did good.

But I want to start a new thing in my life.
It’s scary.
Maybe not needing applause.  (ewww…..just writing that is giving me withdrawal symptoms)

Maybe not being scared. 
Maybe being brave. 
Maybe doing things the way I want to, not because people will like it….but because I like it.  And if not one other person in the universe likes it….that’s okay.  (gah!  can you feel the fear in my fingers as I type this?  How can I live NOT caring what other people think of me?)

Now I’m really scared. But I think it’s happening. I’ve spent way too much alone time lately worrying about how this person doesn’t like me, or how that shirt makes me look horribly fat. Or trying to figure out the motivation behind so-and-so’s comment on Facebook.
Who the heck cares?
What’s the worst that could happen?
“well I guess you’ll die then”.
Meh.
I guess.

But of course I know there is a much more important reason for the girly explosion.   And I LOVE companies that are willing to support and bring awareness for the cause.  Check out the special October offerings from Method’s “Pink Your Sink” October Breast Cancer Awareness campaign.

I LOVE both of the scents. I tried to pick a favie….but both “Mimosa Sun” and “Botanical Garden” are nummy-nummers.

I have to admit that for a good chunk of my life breast cancer hadn’t really affected me. But I distinctly remember a phone call I received about 3 months after I had my first son telling me that a good friend had been diagnosed. I think that message is ALWAYS shocking, however this was particularly shocking because my friend was twenty-six old. Yep. 26.

She went in to immediate treatment. Mostly because of her age, her case had developed quite a bit. I don’t know all the “technical” terms. But I know a 26 year old Mom of 2 little boys was NOT planning on breast cancer.

I am so proud that after an amazing battle, my friend was able to conquer her case and is celebrating (THIS MONTH) her 10 year remission birthday. YAY!

The most amazing thing for me was that after she went into remission, she decided that there wasn’t enough support for young women who are diagnosed with cancer. She told me that they require a lot of different information and treatment options. So in order to help start supporting these young women she started “Young Survivor Sisters“. A non-profit group that helps support and get information to women in Utah diagnosed with breast cancer under the age of 40.

I’m SOOOOOOO amazed by people who take their battles and turn them into something that helps others. In fact, a few years ago I had the privilege of singing at their annual dinner for young women who were battling, or had survived a young battle with breast cancer.  I have RARELY been so inspired.
I’m not kidding you.
These women were my age, and some were bald.  Some had lovely wigs.  Some had lovely scarves.  And all were smiling, hugging, and giving support to one another.  It kind of reminded me of my blog post about supporting friends like a great bra!
I came home inspired, feeling blessed, and loving women!!

Method totally gets the need to support great breast cancer awareness groups as well. Check into their “Pink Your Sink” charity challenge. They will be announcing a winner on the 29th.

(can we just put out a MY BAD here? I was supposed to tell you about this awesome product in time for you to vote for your favorite charities. And I accidentally put my head through a wall instead. I’m SO SORRY! I promise to avoid walls on all important issues in the future.)

But you can still support and bring awareness by pinking up your awesome sink….and making your hands smell nummy. Because no one wants stinky hands. Or stinky boobs for that matter. See? It all makes sense.

Still, you can find Method ALL OVER the social media web! Check them out here:

• Method Facebook Page
• Method Twitter
• Method on Pinterest
• Method YouTube Channel

*Disclaimer–I am receiving some compensation from Method to share their company with my readers. I was also given some product to review. But I also have purchased many of the products myself. Some product photography is my own. All opinions expressed, and experiences are my own. I was in no way compelled to make a particular assessment about Method or their products.

Last week was a normal week. Things around here are pretty mundane. I got some news that I kind of expected.
I will need to have another very LARGE surgery.
And it was kind of hard to swallow.
Even though I’ve felt in my heart that this surgery would be necessary for a very long time now. For some reason, it just sucked out my last little bit of joy. Sometimes, no matter how hard we try, that joy just leaves.

I spent several days on long phone calls with the Dr.’s office. Gratefully they were willing to kind of “consult” with me on the phone so I didn’t have to fly to Arizona again just for a consult.

It ended with the Doctor ordering the surgery, but we needed to schedule it. From our previously scheduled procedure….we knew getting that done could be a little “hairy”. (meaning….it took a freaking long time)

Now you need to know that we have these phones….they are the kind that announce who’s calling. Like they talk. Are you familiar with those? I love them. If I don’t want to answer, I don’t even have to get up. Okay. It’s a lazy person’s phone.

Lately, our phones have been on the fritz. They will suddenly go blank and not pick up. They will run out of batteries in like an hour. They will just die. It’s SO WEIRD. But obviously we need to think about new ones. No big deal.

Promise, this phone info is going to be important….

So on Thursday, I hear the phone. I’m in the living room. It says that it’s the hospital. Which I’m hoping is a surgery date. Not wanting to have to repeat the last scenario of phone tag. I got up quickly to answer. But the phone fritzed on me. Like went blank. Wouldn’t answer.

THIS IS AN IMPORTANT PHONE CALL PEEPS!

So I take of running down the hall to my bedroom where my other phone is.

Granted, I’m in no shape to run. Granted, I’m so top heavy Dolly Parton would stand up and cheer. And I can’t give you the details, because frankly, I can’t remember them.

But I tripped, fell, and rammed straight into the back wall.

Let’s define “into” not bumped into. Maybe “through” would be a better description….

That hole? It’s head shaped. My head shaped. We’re not sure if the upper dent is an elbow or my wrist.  Either way, it made my hand cry.

To be quite honest, I was lucky.  I was pretty sure my wrist was broken.  But just a bad sprain.  I tore some tissue in my jaw because I actually hit with the side of my face, not the top of my head.  (hence the chin bruising)  I have some awesome boob carpet burn.  (you wanted to know that….didn’t you!)  And I seem to find new bruises every day.

We weren’t sure about a concussion, because the Instacare didn’t have a CT Scan.  But I felt fine, so we went home.  Then I puked.  Like…..Wayne & Garth would have been throwing out every term they knew.  “Spew” “Blow Chunks” I’m talking this thing was incredible.

So I had a concussion too.  By process of deduction.  Not by process of really expensive CatScan.

• Did you know when you run into a wall with your head it makes your whole body hurt?  Like you’ve been in a car accident?  It totally does.

• Did you know concussions make you want to sleep all day for a week?  It totally does.

• Did you know looking at that horrible hole in the drywall is going to drive me to drink?  (and I’m not talking Diet Coke!)

Mostly what it did was for SURE steal the last of my joy.  That tiny piece that was hanging on hoping it was gonna get watered, and fed, and some sunshine, and grow into a flower again.

I looked at my bracelet from my stunning and motivational friend Ashley of Lil’ Blue Boo.   She gave it to me last April and it says “Choose Joy”.  I haven’t taken it off since. But I admit, my Joy has withered.

For those that wonder, we did finally get a hold of the hospital.  My surgery date is January 8th.  Which didn’t help with the joy sitch.  Mostly because I just want to get on with it.  And we’ll have to meet our deductible again.  GAH!

We are on a waiting list, but because the surgery is a 12 hour surgery, it’s quite unlikely that we will be able to move up.

*Medical Update is:

• Nothing evasive until January 8th.
• That surgery will be 12 hours long and will remove the mesh that was used in my previous procedure 5 years ago.
• I will be in Arizona for 2 weeks following that surgery.  And then hopefully well enough to fly home, and recover for the remaining 6-8 weeks here.
• There is a very GOOD chance that this might fix my problems.  If not we would move into two more major surgeries 6 months apart in 2013.

But I figure that gives me 3 solid months to get my joy back.  And to concentrate on my family.  My poor kids and husband.  Bless them.  If you happen to pray for our family, pray for them.  My daughter’s teacher called me today to tell me that she’s cried through class for 3 days this week.  And she thought I ought to know. I subsequently finished the phone call and sobbed a little myself.

I want to finish by telling you, my friends, readers, family….all of you

how deeply sorry I am.

I know in my head that none of this is my fault.

But in my heart, I ache for the person that is wasting away in this bed.  Wanting to travel with you, wanting to create with you, wanting to laugh with you.

I try to come to grips with the facts that your lives continue, and that’s why I don’t see or hear from people as much.  But then it was brought to my attention, that maybe I don’t see as much either.  We’re all just very caught up in our own lives, aren’t we?  Whether our problems are big or small….they are ours….and they seem humongous.

I think the only cure for that is to become humble enough to help another person even when you are having problems.  Or to help a person who’s problem seems less than yours.  But help them, just because it’s the right thing to do.

If I have failed to write you a thank you card, failed to answer your e-mail, failed to thank you in a proper way….PLEASE know that I am overwhelmed with love and hope because of your kindnesses.  I love you all more than you’ll ever know.

And I am hoping that I can buy a little joy seed and plant it in my heart again.  So I can share it with all those I love.  God bless you in whatever battle you are fighting.  And PLEASE don’t put your head into a wall.  Oddly, it doesn’t help anything.

With the addition of the internet to our everyday lives, it kind of seems like general manners don’t matter as much anymore.  Mostly because you don’t have to look people in the face.  You don’t have to talk to anyone, and you can literally hide behind your computer.

Rather than get angry about it, I choose to believe it’s just because most people don’t really KNOW how to have internet manners.  And hopefully most people never mean any harm by the things they do or don’t do.  But if you are an avid blog reader/follower…this one’s for you!

(If I felt better, I think I’d invite some friends over and make you a video. For now, you’ll just have to enjoy this awesome one from 1951 talking about table manners….LOVE IT!)

With that in mind, I thought I’d just let you in on some blogging/internet etiquette that I’ve learned.
(and for the record…I didn’t know most of these either…
someone had to teach me. And sometimes the hard way, like I got embarrassed.)

Here’s the deal with Pinterest.

• It’s amazing.
• It’s changed the way all of us think and keep our ideas straight.
• It’s super pretty
• It’s addictive and fun
• It’s a super fast way to find LOTS of cool stuff

Right?  We love Pinterest.

But here’s what you MUST know….

Pinterest DOESN’T MAKE THINGS!

Every time you pin a recipe, and idea, room decor, craft, holiday idea, organization technique…..it doesn’t come FROM PINTEREST!

It’s possible that this is just a pet peeve of mine.  But really, it’s about manners.  Pinterest has changed SO MUCH about how blogging works.  I often hear “I got this idea from Pinterest,” when, in fact, some lovely person in the internet universe MADE that idea.

• They sweat over it.
• They took pictures of it.
• They wrote up a post about it.
• And they’ll never hear that you made, tried, or loved it

I’m not going to tell you not to use Pinterest.  HECK NO!  I love it.  I just want you to think about HOW you use it, and how you refer to things that might be inspired by something on the site.  Take a minute and see where that idea came from.  Who was the mastermind behind that beautiful picture/idea that inspired you?  And even better….take a second to tell them that you love it.  It’s just good manners.

And please, just for me, NEVER SAY, “I got this idea from Pinterest” again.  Deal?

Again, Pinterest has revolutionized the way we view blogging, and sharing ideas.  Particularly creative ideas such as cooking, and crafting (barf, I hate that word) and decorating, and DIY’ing.

I’ve had very deep conversations with some of my blogging friends (many who I consider to be BLOGGING SUPERSTARS!)  Who say they are just ready to quit.  Be all done with blogging.  It’s just not satisfying for them anymore.

Why?

Well, people used to come to your blog and look around.  Many would comment on the things they liked.  Many would leave messages thanking the blogger for the amazing work they were doing.  Many relationships were formed when a blogger was able to respond to a comment and form an actual friendship.

Now, those pictures are pinned.  And many, if not most, of the people don’t even stop by the blog.

Think of it like this….

• how do you feel when you’ve put a MAJOR amount of work into a project at work?
• how do you feel when you’ve spent the whole day cleaning the house?
• how do you feel when you put tons of effort into looking extra cute?

AND NO ONE SAYS ANYTHING.

Boo!  It’s the worst feeling ever!  Can you kind of understand how they feel?  Making a blog post takes several hours just to write, let alone all the work that goes in to making whatever thing is being featured.

And I know you MIGHT have the impression that these bloggers are making tons of money to do what they do.  But I can tell you?  They DON’T.  Most make next to nothing.  Some make enough to cover the cost of their supplies.  And VERY few make actual money.  (and most I know put that money back into things they can blog about and show you!)

What would we do without these bloggers?  These people that STARTED the idea of sharing creative ideas.  These people who give away their genius talents?  Let’s not make it so they want to quit.

Show your favorite bloggers that you love them.  I’m not kidding.  They will keep going if they start feeling a connection with readers again.  It’s just good manners to share your appreciation.  Let’s all learn to say “thank you” more often!  Okay?

Of course you knew this one was coming.  The nastiness that flourishes because no one can see you as you type your hateful comments, opinions, or words.

Sometimes I just think, “if you were looking that girl in the face, would you say that?”  And maybe some people would.  Because mean people exist.  BUT….I think for the most part the answer is no.

Here’s one….

• Did you know that a site owner can look on Pinterest and see the comments from items that have been pinned from their site?

Yep.  So when you make a comment…(and this is a real one that happened to a friend of mine)

“Great idea, but I’d want to make it actually cute”

Really?  How do you think she felt about that?  I mean, it’s not like super horrible.  But is it necessary?  She worked really hard on that.  If you want to make it different, just do it.  I totally tend to think people don’t realize that what they write can be seen.  Now you know.

But remember….that EVERYTHING you write on the internet….has the ability to be seen.  Be thoughtful.

Can I share with you a VERY personal story?

One time, on Facebook, I made a comment about an old High School friend’s husband.  It wasn’t nice.  But I put it on a page of a person that didn’t know her.  I didn’t use her name.  No big deal.  I am friends on FB with this high school friend….but these people don’t know each other AT ALL.

Well….the internet has a funny way of saving all your words.

Through whatever channel…whether it was “Lara made a comment on so and so’s page” or whatever…. This high school friend read EXACTLY what I wrote.

I would have had no idea, except that she decided to write me an e-mail and confront me. You guys…..I DIE!  I swear, I try to be a nice person most of the time.  I’m not perfect.  But I was caught in a big ‘ol moment of true bitchiness. (pardon)

The e-mail, however, ended with her telling me that she truly forgave me for what I said.  And she hoped that in the future, I would know that things I say, can hurt others.   I have rarely been so inspired in my lifetime.  And so completely humbled.  It takes an amazing person to offer that kind of forgiveness.  And I have never forgotten it.  I immediately responded with a sincere apology, taking full responsibility, and thanking her whole-heartedly for the forgiveness she offered.

I learned such a lesson.  There is NO REASON to be unkind.  No reason to write unkind words.  And if you decide to…..be prepared to be found out.

Just because you can leave an “anonymous” comment.  Doesn’t mean you should.

I ADORE how Ellen Degeneres ends her show every day.  It’s how I want to end this post.

BE KIND TO ONE ANOTHER.

Post edit: 10/3/12:  I am overwhelmed by the response to this post.  Overwhelmed.  Nothing like this has ever happened to me before.  And I ADORE and appreciate all the wonderful support I’ve received from many, many, comments.

However, my comment space has become a place where many people feel like they’d like to voice their negative opinions about bloggers, pinterest, and my thoughts.  And frankly, on a post that was written to promote kindness, that response has been disappointing.

If you notice, the article asks people not to say “I got this idea from Pinterest”. Which I hope we can all agree is a very different thing than saying  “I found this on Pinterest”. 

Discovering new things on Pinterest is the thing that is great about the site. And I love to find new friends and talent there, just like you. But the site, on it’s own, doesn’t come up with any ideas. And that is what I am asking people to consider. In no way do I hate Pinterest.  Which was actually mentioned several times.

That’s not in question. 

The negative comments about bloggers and their need for a pat on the back hurts my heart.  These are my friends, and some of the most humble women on earth.  They are giving this community FREE ideas, patterns, and step-by-step instructions for projects.  Saying “thank you” isn’t about an ego….it’s just good manners.

I just am baffled as to why the end of the article about “treat others kindly” doesn’t apply to them.

Because I value SO MUCH the kind-space with which I wrote and shared this article, I have decided to turn the comments section off.  I hope the article continues to help people think about Internet manners and how to be kinder to those whom you interact with words. 

But in that spirit, I just can’t foster a place for people to be unkind.  It’s the opposite of what I mean at Less Cake {more frosting}.  This website is about love, laughing, and support.  Period.

It has nothing to do with your right to express yourself.  And you’re more than welcome to express yourself on your own site.  But here…I just like to feel warm fuzzies.  That’s what my body needs to recover right now.  (did you know I’ve been sick and in bed for 6 months?) I hope you’ll understand that.  You know where to find me if you need me. 

And I’m still ‘lil old me…who loves frosting, and friends, and giggles.

I have finished off several series like The Tudors & Downton Abbey which, when paired with the Olympics, led to an obsession with England.

I also finished Gossip Girl in it’s entirety…which led to an obsession with, well, rich people and their odd behavior.
Throw in my constant love for all things Kardashian.
And that just made my Housewives viewing come full circle.
Shoot.
This is starting to make me look less educated and more lame-o.

At least I just finished Drop Dead Diva….and now love to randomly throw around legal terms just for fun.

In the midst of all this laying in bed, is…well…a bed. My poor, poor, bed. The mattress will most definitely slope toward my side at the end of all this.

But when you lay in the same sheets all day, all night…
You breathe on them, and yes, I eat on them. (Plus if you say you don’t “pass a little gas” on them…you’re a freakin’ liar)
Shoot.
They get a beating.

I also ALWAYS lay under my Spanish blankie. It is my VERY favorite blanket I’ve ever owned. My brother bought it for me when he traveled to Spain. (And I’m not kidding…it’s softer than a baby’s bare bottom.)

Pretty sure it’s for one of their soccer teams. The green one. I dunno. I just know it feels like heaven.

Spending tons of time in here, has made me obsessed that things stink.  I believe the most recent thing was that I was SURE my sheets and precious blanket smelled of corn.  Even though no corn had been consumed in, or near them.  But the whiff of corn was undeniable.  (well, undeniable to me….every one else said I was nuts.  “Corn Nuts, I asked?   Because that’s just seriously nasty!“)

So, in line with my obsession with all things Method.  I decided to try something new.  Their laundry line.  I’ve already expressed my love for the Method soaps, so I thought….why not?

Here goes the sheets AND the beloved blankie with the Method Laundry Detergent in “Spring Daisy”.

One of the coolest things is…I have a daughter with VERY sensitive skin.  Like, we have to put special lotions and medicines on her skin twice a day.  So changing detergents can be scary.

I love that this is dye-free and hypo allergenic.  So it won’t bother her little skin.

But hold on to your hats folks….this next thing is gonna BLOW. YOUR. MIND.

Introducing: Method’s Brand New

Dryer Activated Fabric Softener

Put away your dryer sheets.  Don’t worry about one coming out your pant leg at dinner.  Or finding one stuck to your bum at the movies.  This idea is so novel and lovely….I can’t stand it!

The product is sprayed into your dryer 4 times.  Directly onto your wet clothes.  And the heat of the machine activates it to make everything soft, yummy, and super divine!

Look!  There it goes right on to my cherished Spanish Blankie.  (If it ruined it….you know I’d have a….how do you say “royal come-apart” in Spanish?)

Also, in my quest to learn more about being environmentally conscious: Method taught me….

Look at me!  Being all responsible and stuff!  Plus, one bottle is equivalent to 100 dryer sheets.  I also learned that many dryer sheets use animal products to make the “softness”.  Like….animal fat or something? Ummm…maybe eww!  I don’t need that on my beloved blankie!

The blankie smells Yummers!  I gotta say!  Plus….a little birdie told me it’s awesome to throw your jeans in there with a squirt and freshen them up.  Our dryer has a quick steam cycle that, with a spray or two, is awesome for freshening up hubby’s dress shirts.

And now you can officially add:

Method Dryer Activated Fabric Softener

will make it so your super awesome Spanish blankie

no longer smells like corn!

You don’t have to pay me for that endorsement, Method…..my treat….you’re welcome!!

K.  Before I go….I gotta share this hilaire vid with you that Method made to premiere their new product.  I’m not kidding….I will buy stuff from a company with this kind of sense of humor ANY DAY OF THE WEEK.   Trust me….get a giggle!

Wanna fall in love with Method every month along with Less Cake {more frosting}?
You can find them ALL OVER the social media web! Check them out here:

• Method Facebook Page
• Method Twitter
• Method on Pinterest
• Method YouTube Channel

Now I wanna know….what are your laundry secrets? And do they involve the removal of corn smell?  Or….you can share with me your favie blankie!  I’d love to know about that too!

*Disclaimer–I am receiving some compensation from Method to share their company with my readers. I was also given some product to review. But I also have purchased many of the products myself. Some product photography is my own. All opinions expressed, and experiences are my own. I was in no way compelled to make a particular assessment about Method or their products.