MaryJanes and Galoshes

How to take a picture of a toddler, by Stacie Turner

2012-01-16T10:12:00.004-06:00

I recently came across this post on Staci Turner's photography blog. I thought it was absolutely hillarious, the kind of post you read and think "darn it, I wish I could write like that!". So I had to share!

How to take a picture of a todder, by Stacie Turner

Decide where you want the picture to be, take out your camera and meter the light.
Place toddler in selected spot.
Retrieve toddler from top of bookshelf and return to selected spot.
Get lollipop from cupboard.
Put toddler back in selected spot and give her lollipop.
Wipe lollipop smear from toddler’s face, top of bookshelf, and fur of cat.
Get out bubbles.
Return toddler to selected spot and blow bubbles to keep him interested.
Stop to mop up spilled bubble liquid.
Light has moved. Pick new spot and meter.
Put a basket in new spot.
Put toddler in basket.
Retrieve toddler from behind chair where he is playing with the outlet.
Remind self that you do NOT want a call from preschool in which the teacher inquires where your child learned to say those words.
Put brand new toy in basket along with toddler.
Throw broken toy away, retrieve toddler from kitchen where he is eating cat food.
Consider putting bowl of cat food where the light is good. Reject this idea.
Sew velco to butt of toddler pants and onto pillow. Place child on pillow where light is good.
Remove pillow from child’s behind and re-stuff with something heavier. Reattach child.
By now the light is gone.
Put camera away, pour self drink.

What apps do you love?

2012-01-13T15:28:00.001-06:00

I have been loading my iPad with tons of educational games for the kiddos, but I'm ready to find some apps for myself. I love my kindle app and the blogger plus is great . What other apps are you guys using and loving?

Oh! I'm also loving WpC HD had which is where my background image (above) is from!

Support your local Walgreens Pharmacy, I do!

2012-01-12T15:04:00.001-06:00

This is a Sponsored post written by me on behalf of Walgreens for SocialSpark. All opinions are 100% mine.

Chances are when you go to fill a drug prescription, you don't think much about what goes into making that prescription available to you. At least I don't. I go to my local Walgreens, give them my prescription form and expect that in 15 minutes they will have gotten it filled with which ever option (generic or what have you) will save me the most money. It's why I go to Walgreens rather than the other pharmacy in town (which is run by a very sweet, yet price gouging old man and takes at least 30 minutes to even get to your prescription).

Luckily for me (and I'm sure most of you) there are Walgreens locations on my way to pretty much every destination I travel. So when I'm running into the city I can take advantage of the 24 hour pharmacy and know that I don't need to worry about getting there until everything else is taken care of. For someone like me who has to travel an hour to get to a city, that's a huge bonus. Even my local Walgreens has great hours and the added convenience of a drive through (because getting all the kids out of the car and into the store is a HUGE hassle as most of you know!).

You get my point..... I'm a Walgreens customer. Not only for their pharmacy, but that's what I wanted to focus on today because there are some changes going into effect that Walgreens wants you to know about.

Part of the reason Walgreens is able to provide such competitive prices is due to their relationship with Express Scripts. In the past Walgreens and Express Script have negotiated contracts that allow Walgreens to offer their customers great savings. However this year they were unable to reach an agreement which means those who are covered by the Express Script program (check the back of your prescription insurance card to see if this effects you, it will say Express Script on it if it does) will now need to switch pharmacies (and pharmacists!) to continue to get their prescriptions. Not to mention be subject to possible further drives to their new pharmacy and shorter hours of operation. So when you leave the ER in the middle of the night (as I'm sure you fellow parents have!!! because nothing seems to happen during normal house with kids) your out of luck until regular hours the following day (and for people who live in rural areas like me, it also means a separate trip into town to go back during those hours!).

So what is Walgreens doing to help their customers adjust to these changes? Offering a discount on their Walgreens Prescription Savings Club ! For $10 a year, a family membership covers everyone in your immediate family, including a spouse, dependents 22 and younger and pets. Individuals may join for $5. Join and receive discount prices on your prescriptions. Keeping Walgreens as your pharmacy also means you get savings on more than 8,000 brand name and all generic medications, discounts on flu shots, pet prescriptions, diabetic supplies and more.

What can you do to show Walgreens your support? Follow Walgreens on Twitter and Like Walgreens on Facebook!

Clip in Hair Extensions from Rapunzel Rapunzel

2012-01-10T08:51:00.000-06:00

Extensions are becoming very main stream. There are so many options with fused, sewn in, clip on..... depending on how often you want to wear them. Since I'm mostly at home playing with my kiddos, I don't do much with my hair on most days. I think because of that (and that feeling of dread every time a stay at home mom catches a look at herself in the mirror, gasp!) I thought it would be fun to play around with something to make me feel a little glamorous.

I knew clip in was going to work best for me as I don't want the commitment (or expense) of up keeping any of the other methods for extensions. However! If you do decide to do clip ins like me, make sure you don't skimp on the initial investment. Get good quality clip ins that will last you and be easier to take care of (it's a one time cost!!!!). I decided to go with the Remi clip ins from Rapunzel Rapunzel for a couple reasons.

Real (human!) hair. Which means I can curl it, wash it, even color it! It's REAL hair.
Remi clip in are built root to tip. Which means they pay attention to the natural directions of the hair strand..... which means LESS TANGLE!!!! The hair lays nice and smooth.
They are available in a LOT of colors and varying shades so it's easy to find a match to your color.

So here is what comes in the box (shown in the color I ordered, #22 Light Blonde)

It's a good amount of hair! There are 6 pieces there. Each with fewer clips so that you can place them on different parts of the head. Normally you would place the three clip at the bottom, then the 4 clip, then the two clip and singles on the sides of the head. Because I have such thick hair I found that it looks more natural if I place a two clip lower than you would normally place on at the back of the head, then the 3 clip, 4 clip, then another 2 clip and the singles on the sides. Because I have a lot of layering in the front I didn't need much on the sides, but I needed all of them in the back to get close to the natural thickness of my hair (and keep it looking normal).

To further blend it's important to style them into your hair. Unless you wear your hair stick straight, I suggest putting the extensions in BEFORE you do your styling. Styling them into your natural hair blends them. For me I have found that large barrel curls work the best for blending. Because of my thick hair straight doesn't look natural, and a more beachy wave (which I do a lot with my natural hair) has a bit of the same effect as straight. But I think the big curls look great and sort of Kardashian (I love their hair!!!).

So here is the before (excuse the poor photos......and the pajamas..... and no makeup LOL)

I should also mention that the Rapunzel Rapunzel extensions only come in 18 inches. For me that's 3-4 inches longer than my natural hair, but enough to make a difference!

It's that last bit of length that I just can't seem to get naturally.

I was using a 1.5 inch barrel.

The clips lay nice and flat against my head so it hides well. I don't need to pull my hair half up to hide them like some clips make you. I am having so much fun playing with them! You can even clip them in and pull your hair up if you need added thickness for an updo.

Because of the root to tip build Rapunzel Rapunzel uses, the clips are easy to take out and don't get all tangled up. I've worn them a few times now and each time they come out easily and tangle free! I was impressed that I didn't get a head ache wearing them either, they fit very comfortably!

Loving these nails

2012-01-05T13:31:00.001-06:00

The pink was a Christmas gift so I'm not sure where it came from..... I had never seen the brand before. The gift giver sells Mary Kay so that's a possibility? Anyway, I LOVE it! Shade called Blush. The sparkle is china glaze and called Tinsel Town.

I'm trying to come up with other ways to wear them together. I love the combo.

Better than insatagram.... Disposable App

2012-01-04T12:11:00.000-06:00

One of the new toys I got for Christmas is an ipod touch. Remember how I wanted an iphone? Well unbeknownst to me, the ipod touch is practically the same thing.... just without the phone!!!! You see, I own the nearly original version of the ipod, so when the new ones were coming out I paid no attention at all thinking I did not need to update my music player. So I had no idea what cool things the ipod can do now.

I had thought I wanted the iphone (or ipod touch) to use instagram..... but I was WRONG! Not nearly as cool as everyone made it look. Perhaps it's more for those who get into the sharing end of it? So maybe if your big into twitter, you may find it interesting, but I am not and was disappointed that the editing features weren't as cool as they looked. So I was looking around (the free apps) for something fun to play with and stumbled upon this gem!

All the images in this post are done with this fun app called "Disposable" while I was playing in the car. I am completely in love with it. It works like an old film camera. You choose which camera you want to use (from three options, you can even use multiple cameras at a time). Label the camera so you know them apart if your going to use each for different things. Then you take 24 images (like a roll of film). You don't get to see the images until all 24 are taken and the effects are randomly applied just like they would come out of an old camera. I did ZERO editing to these images, it's how they came out of the app (even the frames).

You can even choose to share a "roll" with your friends! Everyone gets to see each others pics when you reach 24, how fun is that!!!!!

I was just to excited not to share this app with you guys. I'm new to the whole app world so forgive me if I tell you all about something you've used for years ;) But I'm sure there are more than a handful of you out there that are just like me (clueless) and catching up. Maybe we can share a roll of film some time!

Sodee Naturals, and a giveaway!

2012-01-03T12:11:00.000-06:00

Although we are lacking much snow here in Wisconsin (which is just fine with me!!!!), it's still cold and dry. Which means dry, itchy skin. Add to that the new gym membership that has us in the family pool about twice a week, and I'm drying up and itching like crazy!

I'm not much of a lotion person. Mostly because I feel like most lotions are just for looks, moisturize for maybe 5 minutes, then they are gone. Or worse, soak in and just turn my itchy skin into sore itchy skin because now it's irritated by what ever I have slathered on it.

When Sodee Naturals asked me to put their products to the test, I wasn't sure I wanted to. Not being a lotion person I hated to test a product I thought I wouldn't like to begin with. Luckily Sodee has so much faith in their product they wanted to challenge me anyway, and I'm glad they did!

When the products arrived I was pleasantly surprised by the size of the containers, they are very generously sized! The products themselves are extremely thick, not runny like store bought products. The consistency reminds me of thick whipped butter. A little goes a long way so combined with the huge jars they come in, they are a great value!

I started out with the Body Butter (which I got in Tropical Breeze, because I'm a coconut nut). It's much thicker than other body butters I have used. I love the scent, but it's available in lots of scents if your not a coconut person. Even though it's thick it rubs in nicely. The scent isn't all that strong once on so it doesn't compete with your normal fragrance wear.

Next I tested out the shave cream in Spearmint Eucalyptus. Again, also available in other scents, I love eucalyptus, and their version didn't disappoint. Now, the shave cream container says face, I'm guessing this is because of the consistency, maybe it works better on the face? However, being a woman, I had to test it on legs and under arms. This stuff is thick and reminds me of cold cream. It worked great for under arms, but when it came to my legs I found it to hard to spread (although it did do the job and left with me zero razor burn, nice!). So I would recommend that men stick to this product. The jar is very large and would make a wonderful gift for the man in your family!

Shampoo and conditioner...... I was EXTREMELY skeptical about these when I ordered them. I'm a former stylist so I thought there was NO WAY I was going to like these hair products. My only back up was thinking that the kids may like them. Again, Sodee was confident in their products and urged me to try them out anyway. So I did...... You may be wondering why I was so skeptical..... they come in bars! Like soap. Very pretty, but a bar???

I'm not sure why they chose to go with bars, but I will admit it was fun to give something new a try. I ordered the shampoo in Hair Tamer. It takes a little getting used to the idea of lathering up the bar then putting the lather in your hair, but it worked great! I have enough hair for maybe 5 people, and it came squeaky clean. Okay, I say that with a bit of a giggle.... because my hair actually did squeak a bit while using it, which was a first and I thought it was kinda funny. So this bar is going in my gym bag, because I think it's perfect for travel.

I wish I could say the same for the conditioner. Maybe if I didn't have so much hair, or it wasn't so tangle prone, I would feel differently. But I had to put it down and grab my regular conditioner as I wasn't able to get enough off the bar ( I felt) to get through my hair. For men (or women with short hair) the conditioner would work very well, but if your hair is long and thick like mine, it's not ideal.

In case your wondering, the conditioner bar is a slightly different shape so you can tell them apart, at least in the beginning. After use I think you would need to distinguish them by color.

Last I tried the eczema cream (Original, the green jar pictured at top). There are different versions of the eczema cream available depending on the type of eczema you have. Sodee puts an emphasis on their eczema cream because they really want to help find a better solution for those who suffer from eczema. I had eczema as a child and remember how horrible the red itchy patches were. Luckily no one in my home suffers from it any longer, but it's great for more than just eczema so I gave it a go. Actually, I ended up being able to test the product out on a strange dry patch that developed on my face this week. Although you can't see it (or I would have shared a picture) you can feel it distinctly. So I thought it was the perfect time to test out the eczema cream. I put it on before bed (as it's a bit oily feeling and I wouldn't want to wear it on my face outside of my home... you can't see it, but I don't think makeup would go over it very well). By morning I could feel a noticeable difference! I put it on again in the morning as I'm home all day. I think it will do the trick in a day or two!

So if your looking for quality products that are actually effective. I urge you to give Sodee Naturals a try!

In fact, one lucky reader will get to try out the whole line for themselves!!!! Just tell me which Sodee Naturals product you think you would like most in a comment. Giveaway ends January 10th, 2012 at midnight central time. Good luck!

Crochet Patterns from Inner Hooker

2011-12-29T12:49:00.001-06:00

There is something about the cold weather that makes me break out the yarn stash. That's probably the case for most of you right? There is something cozy about being cozy inside with a ball of yarn creating something soft and warm to wear. My favorite thing to make is hats. Mostly because I find them fast to make and get to put them on the little ones right away so it's almost instant gratification. My kiddos are still young enough to actually WANT to wear the things I make ;) This year I really wanted to get myself a stash of baby sized hats to build my prop stash. Being my first year in business I could use all the help I can get building an arsenal of cute things to use on a budget! So of course DIY it is!!! Luckily, that's kind of my specialty.

I was a bit bored with the patterns I had on hand. Plus they were all for knitting (which I love, but am COMPLETELY slow at!). Crochet (for me) is much faster and I found some really adorable patterns at Inner Hooker on Etsy. They are completely addicting. For me, these two in particular had me hooked (LOL, corny pun not intended, but I'll take it).

Above and below is the Long Tail Stoking Cap. I love it because the length of the tail is completely customizable. The stripes are as well (and optional if you prefer a solid color of course!). I happen to love stripes!!! The pom or tassel on the end is also optional (and not included in the pattern).

I found Inner Hooker when searching for a scallop edge beanie pattern. So glad I did! The Scallop Beanie is one of the shops original patterns, but I think it's a classic! And so super easy to whip up. I love that you can customize the colors to accent the scallop.

The pattern comes with directions for making and adding a flower, but you could also add a silk flower or (as I did below) a ribbon and large bow!

Sorry for the terrible pic quality on that one! Can you tell I'm playing with a new toy? ;)

I should also mention that I in no way consider myself a master crocheter. These patterns were so easy to follow all it took was a little google to refresh my memory of some stitches and away I went! So don't be intimidated if you have never made a hat before, or aren't an experienced hooker.

I also picked up a few more patterns that I cant' wait to dive into! The top yarn of that first pic I picked up specifically for the Teddy Bear Ear Flap pattern. The yarn has some flecks in it that I think will make the teddy bear look a bit vintage. (there is a fox pattern too!!!!)

Image from Inner Hooker shop

And while we are talking woodland animals..... I think this little bunny is to die for!

again, image from shop

If your not into hats (or babies LOL) you can still find something fabulous. Like this bag!

image from shop

I also picked up the Owl Earflap Beanie, Newborn Cocoon and the sling for bigger babies.

Random thoughts on doing it all..... and the New Year

2011-12-29T09:55:00.002-06:00

I'm not a resolution person. Partially because there seems to be such thoughts of failure attached to them. Everyone talks about broken resolutions and "next year" they will make it happen! We set resolutions and give ourselves permission to fail at them before the year has even started. So I've never been a resolution person. In fact, I have never been great at goal setting either. Which is something I hope to change this year. That kind of sounds like a resolution doesn't it, LOL. Well what ever it is, I am setting a goal, making a plan, putting it out there..... this year I will make goals, and I will reach them.

Did you go to see "New Years Eve" the movie yet? I must say, I absolutely L-O-V-E-D it! I was apprehensive because there are so many huge stars in it, I thought it would be a bust, but it was soooo worth it. I can't wait for it to hit DVD so I can see it again. Great feel good movie to start your new year off.

Any big plans for New Years Eve? I will be headed to be on time as I have a photo shoot the next day, okay, maybe I will attempt to stay up late enough to watch the ball drop on TV. I wish I could say that New Years Eve was a big night out for us. Actually, I wish I could say it was EVER a big night out. I have been to one fabulous New Years party in my life, I was 16 (I think) and a friend's mom, who was a party planner, had a huge bash at their house. Each room was a different theme and done all out, it was amazing. Maybe that needs to go on my bucket list (if I ever make one)..... attend fabulous new years eve party!

So for Christmas this year I requested a few things that would make my life easier. Help me "do it all" if you will. I'm excited about the new techy mommy toys that will help me keep up on this blog and share my projects a bit easier. Also keep up on taking snapshots of my own kiddos and share them easily with friends and families. Even a new toy to help me connect to it all wireless. If you guys are interested I can go into more details on all the tools that keep on top of things while managing three small kiddos and running a business.

Recovering

2011-12-26T21:26:00.001-06:00

We are all having fun playing with new toys and gifts while recovering from all the holiday bustle. I adore this wig Santa brought Nadia how fun!

I would love to hear what you got (good bad or ugly lol).

Sephora Gift Card Giveaway!

2011-12-19T16:00:00.001-06:00

This is a Sponsored post written by me on behalf of Gift Card Weekend for SocialSpark. All opinions are 100% mine.

I will be the first to say that I did the MAJORITY of my holiday shopping through Sephora online! I LOVE their products. I got amazing fragrances, gorgeous makeup kits, shaving kits for the guys, quality candle sets for the grandmas, and even seriously cute Hello Kitty combs for my nieces! So I'm very excited to be able to tell you how you can win a $20 gift card to Sephora!

It'a all part of Gift Card Weekend. All you need to do is like Gift Card Weeked on Facebook, then fill out the entry form on their sidebar menu. If you choose to Share with your friends that you've Liked them, you gain extra entries into the giveaway for each "like" you influence! The Saphora cards are being given away daily between December 19-23rd. But be sure to check the page often as there are lots of other great things being given away too (all month long!).

So WHAT IS Gift Card Weekend? Some popular (and fun) retailers have gotten together to boost your gift giving power. When you purchase a gift card during the holiday season, the person who recieves that gift card can get even better deals when they redeem their card during Gift Card Weekend (January 6th-8th, 2012)! Want to know who's participating? Of course you do!

-JCPenny
-Regal Cinema
-Subway
-Sephora
-Applebee's
-Bass Pro Shops
-Adidas
-Buca di Beppo
-Lowe's
-Spa Finder
-Marriot
-Giant Eagle

There is somewhere for everyone on your list right?! Suddenly there is a little more thought behind giving that gift card ;) Head over to FB and like them today!

BE PRODUCTIVE!

2011-12-16T14:00:00.000-06:00

That was meant to be yelled more at myself than you ;) Today.... I will choose something I've pinned and actually MAKE IT HAPPEN!

Now what board to choose from, probably going to start with the "try this" board! Off to be productive :) I will share what I chose and how it turned out soon!

P.S. Don't forget to enter the PS actions October collection giveaway!

Alex Beadon Actions Giveaway

2011-12-16T08:09:00.004-06:00

You've heard me talk about photoshop actions before.....

If you haven't, they are like little autopilot bits of goodness that take your images from drab to fab in seconds with very little effort from you! (well, as long as you have a GOOD action! there are lots of options out there)

Actions are a nice way to create consistency when editing your photos (if you don't yet have your own editing style). I know most of you who read this blog aren't pros (although some of you are!), your moms who love to take pictures! Some of you are even serious amateurs. If you are a photoshop CS user, your going to LOVE Alex Beadon. She's so my style!

She has some gorgeous before and afters on her site, but I wanted to show you a couple of my own using nothing more than the actions. The images have not been touch by any other tool than the Alex Beadon actions. I also made sure to use snapshots that I took on auto to further prove that you don't need a fancy image to get stunning results when you use these! It was a chilly day out, so although Alex's actions are stunning on warm, cozy images, they look great on cooler weather images as well!

This first image (below the video) was done exactly as her "how to" video shows you. It's a must watch (even if you don't have the actions, but warning, it will make you want them......BAD!).

Edited as video (without Maracas as this is a cool weather image) using actions from the October collection (which is what we are giving away today!). No other editing was done to this images (notice the cookie on his face! LOL).

Below, edited with Sweet and Dreamy (from the November collection) as well as an edge darkening using the Contours action from October collection.

Clearly these are a distinct style. You may not care for the vintage effect, I love it! All actions are completely adjustable so you can play up (or down) any aspect you choose. Below again is the Sweet and Dreamy.

So many times I end up dumping my snapshots into my computer and not doing any more with them because it takes such a n effort to "edit". But that's because I'm looking at them as I look at my paid sessions, I've come to realize that snapshots can be quickly brought to life with actions I love and I don't need to do a full edit on them, actions have it all worked in there and make my snapshots enjoyable to me!

Want to see another one of Alex's amazing edits? Check out this video!

So much fun! She inspires me to want to play more with color!

Alright, now that your all drooling, let's have a GIVEAWAY! One lucky reader will receive the entire October collection of actions from Alex Beadon Photography!

To enter:
Leave a comment (Be sure your email address is either visible on your profile or leave it in your comment!)

For additional entries:
Twitter it, Facebook it, Blog about it... How ever you choose to spread the word about this giveaway, just leave me a link (or your twitter name) in a separate comment for each way you spread the word!

"Like" Alex Beadon Photography on FB! Leave a seperate comment that you did!

Giveaway ends December 21st. Winner will be chosen at random and contacted by email. Good luck!!!!

TV Wall Mount from Wayfair

2011-12-15T07:00:00.000-06:00

I mentioned I picked up a flat panel TV during a crazy Black Friday sale. It's our first flat TV and I was excited to get it up on the wall. There are a lot of options for TV mounts and Wayfair.com carries a TON of them! So that's where I went when I was looking for mine. Here is the one I picked up (which was shipped out to me in near record time!).

It has a solid constriction and was super easy to put up! It's a universal mount which means it will fit any TV between 26 and 42 inches. It holds up to 125 pounds which is WAY more than my tv. It also tilts 15 degrees if you need it to. I really just wanted to get the TV up on the wall with a fairly slim mount so that I could do something like these inspiration images.

Source: allthingsthrifty.com via Lauren on Pinterest

Source: laurawinslowphotography.com via Keshia on Pinterest

Source: houzz.com via Barbara on Pinterest

I love how the bottom two use store bought (probably thrifted) large frames and don't worry about custom building one to fit the TV perfectly. I think I will go with that option and switch my frame and frame color up with the season or holiday! Like a orange one for Halloween time and a red one for Christmas. Have fun with it!

Next time your looking to compare a lot of items in one place, check out Wayfair. I've ordered from them several times (they used to be CSN stores) and have always been very happy with my experience!

Happy Holiday Fun

2011-12-14T08:33:00.003-06:00

A good friend of mine (and fabulous hostess of Chapel by the Spring) sent the most fun little greeting this morning, I just had to share it with you. It's free if you have someone you would like to make smile today! All the images were pulled off of FB so I'm sure you can do it too!

Personalize funny videos and birthday eCards at JibJab!

My holiday wish list?

2011-12-12T10:16:00.002-06:00

I can be a hard person to shop for. Not that people don't see things all the time that scream Taylor!, but I tend to be someone who buys the things they want when they want them..... I've always had a hard time WAITING for things LOL. Galoshes asked me to put together a wishlist so she can bang out some last minute holiday shopping so I thought it would be fun to share the things I'm wishing for with you all. For no better reason in that I know it's hard to write your wish lists when people ask for them, it's like how you can never find anything you love when you have money, but when your broke it seems the stores are packed with things you can't live without. I know that's not just me! So here goes, not everything is feasible for ME necessarily on my list (ahem, smartphone!), but they are all things I would love to see under my holiday tree!

1. If I could only have one gift for the entire year (I mean, I would throw in birthdays for this baby) it would be an iphone. I'm not even sure it has to be an iphone.... can you use instagram on an android smart phone? Anything that takes decent pictures and would allow me to easily post them to the internet. My pocket camera recently died so I no longer have a camera I can always have on me, and I'm pretty sure an iphone would make keeping up on my blogging 1000 times easier! Like that awesome thing my husband just made me I've been meaning to share with you all! But that means getting out my big camera, shooting, loading, editing down to size for web...... You get what I'm saying, a smart phone would be instant photo, instagram, post, done! Maybe that monthly fee isn't sounding so outrageous anymore LOL.

The rest of my list is in no particular order....

2. Protective case for my tablet. I don't have a fancy tablet, it's an inexpensive generic beginners tablet that I'm completely fine with! It's 7 inches and the perfect size for what I need right now. BUT that means it's hard to find a case to fit it in and the one it came with isn't super durable. Amazon is carrying cases for 7 inch tablets, I kinda need one. There was an amazing pink one.... but it's no longer available. Though I don't think the husband would love the pink one and he has been playing with the tablet lately too.

3. I'm pretty sure I would have as much fun decorating this little house as my daughter would playing with it!

That is just s screen shot, you can't really mouse over to zoom from here, sorry ;)

4. I think this may be the cutest way to bake a cake ever!

5. This alarm clock has been on my amazon wish list for YEARS. It gradually increases light waking you up naturally. I always find I wake up in a better mood and more alert, when I think it's daylight out.

6. Lighted mirror. I have no real bathroom vanity right now and the lighting at my desk/makeup area is terrible. I use two mirrors to bounce the light from a lamp onto my face, it's awful. I know Target carries some nice options. This one from Amazon is pretty.

7. Pink ear buds. I have a hard time getting ear buds to stay in, small ear canals or something? So I like the ones that have the wrap around the ear things, technical term ;) , like these from amazon (can you tell I'm an amazon shopper? If only they would start taking Paypal!

8. Arthur on DVD, because it's HILARIOUS! I may even want the darth vador mask LOL.

9. Kindle gift card so that I can get the Twilight books! Yes, I'm late in the game, I have seen all the movies but not ready any of the books.... yet! I think you can get kindle gift cards in the electronic section at wal-mart, so if your looking for a gift for that kindle (or tablet) owner in your life, it's easier to find than you may think!

Again, screen shot, you can not look inside unless you go to amazon's website.

10. I'm in pretty desperate need of a better way to organize my makeup. I have it in drawers right now so some drawer organizers might be nice, maybe? Here are some I like (not necessarily the in drawer kind, but fun!).

found here

that one would fit in my drawers! found here

found here

I saw this table on pinterest from Ikea and pinned it a while back, I have no room for it right now, but love it!

11. nuf said

12. I'm pretty sure the iphone would be cheaper than this, but I still love it!

13. Photoshop shortcuts, how fun!

14. So many great notepads. This self help (anger management?) one is one of my favorites for sure!

Really, that whole website if filled with must haves!

15.These bowls. Love them!

I'm a big gimmic/gadget girl, can you tell? LOL. Did I inspire your wish list? What are you wishing for? I'd love to hear, maybe you could help me add to my list.

Screen Recorder Software

Winner!

2011-12-12T08:03:00.000-06:00

We have a Shabby Apple Dress winner........

Congratulations

Staci said...: I like them on FB. Thanks!

You know your clueless, get out of the tie section and put down that gift card!

2011-12-07T13:00:00.001-06:00

This is a Sponsored post written by me on behalf of Parker Pens for SocialSpark. All opinions are 100% mine.

We all have the "impossible to shop for" person on our holiday shopping list. The person who has everything. I usually end up giving those people a nick nack that I know goes with their home or a baked good, but when it's someone you have to buy for year after year even that gets old. We've all heard "not anothe neck tie!" which in my family is kind of funny because I think the men own maybe 2 ties and rotate them between weddings and funerals. Pretty blue collar here ;) BUT one thing I think everyone needs (and can appreciate) is a good pen!

That video is so true. How many of you are walking around with trendy designer bags and wallets, great sunglasses, and CHEAP PENS! Too funny.

Pens may not be a big deal in your home, but in our house there is always the quest for that perfect pen. My mom is the worst, she buys pens like candy trying to find the right one. So I'm excited to find out about Parker Pens. Did I lose you? Some of you are like "Taylor! Why are you talking about pens!" Seriously, a good pen is a big deal, hear me out! You know that person on your list needs to write things down, I mean our phones may be great, but nothing beats pen and paper!

Um, I want to borrow a pen from THAT guy!

If you watched the video above, you may have caught what makes Parker Pens different. Let me re-cap on that:

Three pens in one- the beauty of a fountain pen (seriously, who won't feel just a little special writing with that tip?), smoothness of a rollerball, and the ease of a ball point.

They look cool! The Parker Ingenuity collection is as beautiful as it is functional. With lots of designs to choose from, there is one for that hard to shop for person!

Plus they come in a beautiful box, ready to give!

Trendy enough for even that nephew you've been struggling over, you know the one that is attached to his smartphone and knows more about technology that you know about...... well, what ever you know a lot about! Don't go with another gift card, get him something that will last!

Even I'm dying to get one of these bad boys for myself. Lucky for me, Parker Pen has 2 upcoming Twitter parties where you can win some amazing prizes such as pens that are valued up to $200! Like Parker on Facebook to keep up on the details!

I think the pen would help me look more professional at client consultations, why would you want to win one?

WINNER Lily Giggle Patterns

2011-12-07T08:54:00.001-06:00

We have a winner for the Lily Giggle Pattern set! Congratulations Theresa who said:

BOAmommy said...: I could make everyone of the items for my nieces! I do like that cute Cloche the most I think. ~Theresa Klemm; December 05, 2011; There are still a couple more giveaways going, be sure to enter for your chance to win 500 color business cards and a gorgeous Shabby Apple Dress!

Shabby Apple Dress Giveaway!

2011-12-03T14:00:00.000-06:00

After all this holiday shopping for everyone else I'm thrilled to give you the chance to win yourself a little something pretty to wear! Shabby Apple is an online boutique specializing in woman's dresses. Their style is sort of vintage fabulous! There is a lot more than just dresses on their site, and even things for young and teen girls, but today we are focusing on dresses because I'm giving away this.....!

It's the Ballerina dress. I love the flow of it and it's knit so I imagine super comfortable! Wear it to your New Years Eve party, or maybe a wedding! What ever you wear it to, you'll look fabulous. Want to win it???

Giveaway!

To enter- "Like" Shabby Apple on Facebook. Then comment on this post that you did!

The facebook entry is mandatory. Once you've done that, you can enter for a second chance to win by telling me where you would wear the dress!

Giveaway ends December 10th at midnight central time. Good luck!

DIY Scandinavian Tree Tutorial

2011-12-03T07:00:00.002-06:00

I could not be more excited to share this project with you!!!! To be honest, this was one of those projects that as I was buying the materials, wondered if I could actually pull it off. But I did and now I'm giddy with holiday joy to share it with you.

How it came about..... Everything starts on Pinterest these days right? This project certainly did. I fell in love with this tree (click on images for sources)-

I searched high and low, scoured the internet, looked at real tree varieties (as the one above is obviously real) but couldn't find a real one with a slim enough trunk or a fake one that was sparse enough. So I knew if I was going to make it happen, I would have to do it myself! And I did, in about an hour!!!

Here are a few more cute, sparse trees to inspire you before we get started.....

This one (above) I actually pinned for the base. It's a store bought and expensive way to hide the tree stand, BUT flip a thrift store basket upside down, cut out the bottom and you've got it!!!! If I find a basket large enough, I'm going to be doing this for my base.

This one's in a trash can! So fun. I picked up a trash can like this for my deck at True Value Hardware, they had them in a variety of sizes for a good price.

On to the tutorial!!! I decided the easiest way to share was part photos, part video. I'm extremely video shy, so not made for TV ;)

What you need-

At my local True Value I picked up-
4 foot piece of rebar (it's a medal rod made to go inside concrete) Mine is 1/2 inch
Roll of brown plastic tape
2x2 length of wood for base
2 Screws (optional)

On hand I had some 9 gauge wire. But you could probably get that at True Value too! You will also need wired garland, which can be found in any Christmas decor section of your favorite store.

Tools needed-
Saw and small chisel to cut base and notch together
Drill and bit (the same size as your rebar)
Gloves
Wire cutter

With your wire cutter, cut your garland into sections for each level of the tree. I wanted my tree to have about 5 levels and three branches per level. The bottom two levels of my tree are the same length and the next two are the same as each other. This is what I cut-
6 branches at 17"
6 branches at 12"
3 branches at 7"
1 branch at 14" (for the top)

Now that you have your branches you need a tree to secure them to. Cut the 2x2 into two 24 inch pieces (a skill saw is handy for this!) Then put a 1 inch notch in the center of each piece so that they fit together to form a flat X base. You may need to use a small chisel along with your saw to make this notch. We used a skill saw, cut some 1 inch slots down into the board, then chiseled them out. Once your base is flat, you may choose to secure it by screwing at a diagonal (so that both boards are caught by your screw) from opposite sides. Drill a hole in the center to fit your rebar.

Now that your base is secure, cur your 9 gauge wire into various lengths (around 2 feet) and wrap around your rebar to create each level. You will want to wear gloves for this part. The rebar is textured so wrapping the wire tight is enough to secure it in place. You can also spiral between your levels to help everything stay put. We used two sections of wire for each level, one to make two branch supports and the second one to make the third branch support and spiral up to the next level.

Photo is of the first (bottom) level It doesn't have to be pretty. We are going to wrap it in tape and cover it in our garland. For the rest of the tree I thought it was easiest to video so you can actually see the technique in motion. Not that there was anything difficult going on, just easier to show this way. Directions for the rest of the steps are written into the video.

The final tree!

From start to finish this project took about one hour with my husband and I both working together. For one person I would say under 2 hours. There wasn't any part that could not have been done alone, just faster with someone to help ;) Happy Holidays!

Mary Mary, how does your garden grow?

2011-12-02T15:00:00.001-06:00

This is a Sponsored post written by me on behalf of Bulbs. Dig, Drop, Done. for SocialSpark. All opinions are 100% mine.

No really, how does it work? Because I'm clueless! I admire gardens, long for fresh flowers on the table all the time, wish I could just go outside and cut some. The problem, I was born with a black thumb. When I bought my first house I did manage to grow some Tulips and Lilies, because they grow from bulbs, which I new very little about, but seemed to be somewhat fool proof as they continued to return year after year. I was amazed! I can't even keep a house plant alive! I wanted to learn more about bulbs, I live in Wisconsin so it's important to know at least a little something about what I'm planting in these harsh winter conditions. The problem..... I find gardening books, and reading about gardening, well, BORING! That was until I met these ladies!!!!

WWho wouldn't want to learn a thing or two from them?! Juliana may be my new BFF. Check her out-

Can you believe this is a gardening website?! It's like that cool teach in high school that found a way to make math fun. There are even fun videos on the site. You have to watch them!!! Start with this one-

Evelyn tricks me into learning about what to plant to keep animals away with her funny video.

While your at it, check out Marcy, the competitive housewife. Notice how she sneaks in information on forcing bulbs in the refrigerator, something I had heard about, but until this site tricked me into learning, did not think would be easy enough my black thumb to pull off.

There are a ton of beautiful images on the site, all of which go perfectly with my style here at MaryJanes and Galoshes! A few of my favorites....

I had no idea how versatile bulbs were. Because no one ever made it this fun and easy to learn about them! That's why Juliana is my favorite, she was clueless and not into getting dirty, just like me! I don't weed, I don't dig in dirt, I would much rather have a plant INSIDE, in a pot, where weeds don't exist. But house plants aren't hearty enough to withstand life with me. Surely a bulb plant will be!

Maybe next year my yard won't look like Curbside Chaos! With the help of the Garden Guru, I will be able to easily identify what bulbs can grown in my area, fool proof! Just find your zone on the map provided, click the color, choose the month you want your flowers to bloom, then choose from the list of appropriate flowers. Clicking on the flower will tell you more about how to plant and take care of that bulb. While your there, enter a photo of your yard for your chance to win a $5,000 yard makeover!!!!

The lucky winner will not only receive a $5,000 yard makeover, but they will also receive a visit from Taniya Nayak (@TaniyaNayak on Twitter) – Taniya will go through and give you tips on the best way to update your yard! She will give you creative ideas for incorporating flower bulbs into your landscape.

For every share on Twitter, "Bulbs. Dig, Drop, Done." will donate $1.00 to Rebuilding Together - the nation’s leading nonprofit, working to preserve affordable homeownership and revitalize communities.

I still have a lot to learn, but you can bet I will visit www.digdropdone.com to learn more and soak up all the information and putting some bulbs in dirt very soon! Heck, I may even plant some in pots to give as holiday gifts.

500 Full Color Business Card Giveaway!

2011-12-02T07:00:00.000-06:00

Ready for another giveaway??? Me too! I've teamed up with ColorFX, who offer color printing options for all your business needs, to help you restock after the holiday rush! I know I hand out a TON of business cards and materials in the holiday season. I'm sure your no exception. We are all so lucky to be able to run our own little businesses with all the advantages of the internet these days.

With everything going on in the States these days I have found myself taking a closer look at the companies I'm buying from. ColorFX is family owned and run in California!

ColorFX is the premier online color printing company specializing in catalog printing. They also offer brochures, calendars, CD and DVD covers!!! So useful for us photographers! Really, any promotional product you use, they make it. And now you have the chance to try then out FREE by winning 500 full color business cards!

Giveaway ends December 15th. To enter, fill out the form below. Good luck!

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Sewing Pattern Giveaway from LilyGiggle!

2011-12-01T07:00:00.000-06:00

I could not be more excited to share this giveaway with you!!! If your like me, your trying to figure out what to make everyone for the holidays this year. I have lots of little girls in my family so when I came across LilyGiggle on etsy I knew! Plus, I'm going to make a ton of their things for photo props! Check out the fun patterns I picked up.

Seriously! Does it get any cuter than that? Plus those striped ruffle pants have several variations so there are a ton of different looks! I've gone through all of these patterns and I can honestly say they have more detailed directions than any of my own tutorials, so if you've successfully made my projects you will have no problem following these patterns! If your new to sewing (or know someone who is and may be on your gift list this holiday season) there is no better way to start than with patterns made by expert sewers like LilyGiggle! Step by step photos, easy to follow directions and an actual person to contact if you have a question!!! I will never buy a store bought pattern as long as people like this are making them!

Want to win a set of 5 patterns for yourself? OF COURSE you do!

GIVEAWAY!

How to enter-

1.Comment on this post with what pattern is your favorite from the etsy shop

2.For a second entry... Pin (on Pinterest) your favorite image form LilyGiggle

Can't wait for a winner? Get 20% off NOW with code MJG20 good at both the etsy shop and LilyGiggle.com (you can download your pattern instantly through the actual website! Bundle purchases are emailed do to technical limitations) Code expires one week from this post.

Giveaway ends December 6th at midnight Central time. Good luck!

Back and Better Than Ever! CSN stores now Wayfair.

2011-11-30T14:00:00.000-06:00

I've mentioned before that I do a lot of online shopping with CSN stores. Well, they have grown, evolved, and updated their site as Wayfair. If you hadn't heard of them before, they carry everything for the home. You can find kids chairs and kitchen gadgets... closet organizers and bathroom fixtures!

Anyway! We just scored a flat panel TV through a great Black Friday deal (though I'm more of a Cyber Monday girl!) and I knew right away that I was going to head over to Wayfair to pick up a wall mount. Their prices are much better than I can get one locally and they have a ton of options. I recently saw a pin on Pintrest of a tv framed on the wall, amazing! I'm so doing that as soon as my wall mount comes!!! So I will share my results with you soon! Check out my inspiration-

(click image for source)