Simply Sadie Jane

IT'S HIS BIRTHDAY TODAY...

noreply@blogger.com (Sadie Jane Sabin) — Tue, 18 Jun 2013 01:26:00 +0000

so naturally I took MOST of my favorite pictures of the last few years and put them back right here so we could all enjoy them again!

AND, if you make it through them all,

I tell you some of the reasons why he's my favorite!

{let the excitement commence}

*He loves John Deere {probably a little too much}

*He LOVES LIFE!

*He wears SIZE 14 shoes {I know...they are HUGE!}

*He loves hamburgers and shakes

*He showers twice a day

*He stares at me in church, like a creeper, but I secretly love it

*He talks in his sleep about Tosh.O

*He details the cars every 2 weeks...he is obsessed with a clean car

*He could live in the forest, like the crazy old man off Man From Snowy River

*His hands have calluses and cuts and scars on them...and I love it

*He knows how to fix everything

*He can't cook but he can BBQ

*He hates helping me clean but he helps me anyway

*He wants to be a farmer for the rest of his life

*He would eat a cheese quesadilla with hot sauce everyday if he could

*He wants to be an entrepreneur someday

*He stresses about our finances WAY too much

*All he wants is for me to be happy

*He points his pinky out when he eats (like a southern lady with her tea)

*His voice is really deep and sexy

*I swear sometimes he is deaf :)

*He can't be in the house for more than an hour without getting stir crazy

*He LOVES watching discovery channel but hates watching sports

*He bites his lip and doesn't realize it but I always do cause I think it's cute

*He let's me decorate however I want

*He kisses my lips and forehead every morning before leaving for work

*He can growl like a lion...so I sometimes call him kitty cat! {HA if he knew I was writing this he would freak}

*He sticks his tongue out when he's concentrating on something

*He loves getting dirty

*He doesn't yell...I'm pretty convinced he doesn't know how

*He loves the gospel
*He's not afraid to fail
*He will try anything at least once
*He is the best father in the entire world
*He helps me with the kids at night
*His favorite thing to do after work is play with the kids...then go for a bicycle ride with them

*He makes me better everyday
*He loves crossfit
*He is hands down the hardest worker I know
*He would ride his dirt bike every day if he could

*He is friendly to LITERALLY everyone

*There isn't anyone else on this earth like him

*He really is perfect in my eyes
*I really can't imagine a better man for me

*He is my eternal companion

*He is my love

*He is my life

Do you remember when I did this list back in 2011???

IN THIS POST

It was fun for me to read back at all the things I loved about him then.

I added a few to the list but he's pretty much the same amazing Jeff now, like he was back then!

So, 2 kids later, I'm still just as obsessed with him as before!

I love you baby.

Happy birthday!

Let's go make out.

Spring product review #4 for CENTRAL GARDEN & PET and a $25 American Express gift card giveaway!

noreply@blogger.com (Sadie Jane Sabin) — Mon, 17 Jun 2013 18:34:00 +0000

Disclosure: Post and giveaway sponsored by Central Garden & Pet and Moss Out! Spot Treater Shaker, but all opinions are my own. Please see below for additional disclosure.

I'm back to bring you all another GREAT giveaway and talk to you about another AMAZING product for your grass, garden and plants!

- See more at: http://www.simplysadiejane.com/#sthash.wNNow02c.dpuf

Disclosure: Post and giveaway sponsored by Central Garden & Pet and Corry's Slug & Snail Killer, but all opinions are my own. Please see below for additional disclosure.

I'm back WITH MY FINAL POST to bring you all another GREAT giveaway and talk to you about another AMAZING product for your grass, garden and plants!
For more than 60 years, the Corry’s Brand has been a trusted name, protecting the hard work and investment of gardeners from marauding slugs and snails.
New, highly-selective formula, homeowners and pets can now enter the treated area immediately after Corry’s has been applied.
With its unique oxygen transport system, Corry’s inhibits the characteristics of slugs and snails without harming the beneficial species, such as honeybees, ladybird beetles or earthworms.
As most gardeners know, slugs and snails are notorious garden pests. These nocturnal pests feed on decaying plant matter and a variety of living plants, such as flowers, hostas, lettuce, strawberries and tomatoes.
Once ingested, the feeding of snails and slugs is inhibited immediately. This physiological effect gives fast-acting protection to plants from further damage.

Disclosure: Post and giveaway sponsored by Central Garden & Pet and Moss Out! Spot Treater Shaker, but all opinions are my own. Please see below for additional disclosure.

I'm back to bring you all another GREAT giveaway and talk to you about another AMAZING product for your grass, garden and plants!

- See more at: http://www.simplysadiejane.com/#sthash.wNNow02c.dpuf

How-To
1. Scatter the slug and snail bait granules on the soil around or near the plants to be protected.
2. Do not use kitchen utensils for food uses after pesticide use. Try to scatter granules evenly so as not to create piles.
3. Reapply as the bait is consumed or every two weeks.
4.Apply more heavily watered if the infestation is severe, if the area is heavily watered or after long periods of heavy rain.

Tips
· Treat all likely areas of infestation, especially around the base of plants, between rows and around the perimeter of garden plots where pests travel into plant areas from daytime refuges.
· Slugs and snails favor damp places around vegetable plants, such as beans, tomatoes, lettuce, cabbage, celery and squash. Other favorite areas include home lawns, gardens, greenhouses, outdoor ornamentals, vegetable gardens, fruits, ivy patches, and other ground cover where they obtain shelter by day.

The people over at CENTRAL GARDEN & PETS are so thrilled that they get to show off their new products for Spring that they are giving away yet ANOTHER $25 gift card.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Central Garden & Pet partnered with bloggers such as me to help educate us all about their products. As part of this program, I received compensation. They did not tell me what to purchase or what to say about the use of the products. Central Garden & Pet believes that consumers and bloggers are free to form their own opinions and share them in their own words. Central Garden & Pet’s policies align with WOMMA Ethics Code, FTC guidelines and social media engagement recommendations. A winner will be chosen by random and gift card fulfillment will be handled by a third party.”

Deep sea fishing: ALASKA 2013

noreply@blogger.com (Sadie Jane Sabin) — Fri, 14 Jun 2013 00:48:00 +0000

One day my pops called my sisters and I to invite us on his semi-annual Alaskan fishing trip!

Just him and his girls.

I'm going to be honest, my initial thought was to come up with every single excuse in the book not to go.

I am SUCH a pansy when it comes to motion sickness.

I mean, if I get up out of bed too fast I'm nauseous!

But FOR REALS, I was beyond nervous about getting sick.

Most of the family have gone before, and I know big, strong, tough men that have been literally laying on the deck of the boat because they have been so sick.

So, I thought about it for a couple days.

Once I was done with my inner battle tantrum,

I gave myself a swift kick in the butt for even considering NOT going,

took a million drugs,

said my prayers,

took more drugs,

and hopped on a plane to Alaska!

I am beyond thrilled to report that I had a BLAST!!

Oh and I am planning on starting a new fashion trend where a million layers of clothing under bright yellow rain gear is the HOTTEST thing to wear!

But ONLY if you pair with some kind of head wrap.

{note the fish guts and blood that are sloshing under my boots}

DELICIOUS!!!

One of the most beautiful, untouched places in the world!!

I was surprised by how difficult it was to reel the fish in!

Those suckers were fighters and most of them were HUGE!

We missed the sisters that couldn't make it!

My dad has been fishing with ANGLING UNLIMITED for almost 9 years now!

I would seriously recommend them to anyone!!

They even cut up the fish and package it for you.

This is Ben and Ryan.

The captain and the deck hand!

They were the reason we were such great fishermen!

Imagine being in charge of 5 crazy women on a boat and running all day long.

I mean for reals these guys deserve a medal or something for dealing with us!

Apparently they don't see many 'young people' in their line of work so they were either thrilled or terrified to take care of us.

We all pretty much had a party the whole time...except the second day when a few of us girls got sick.

I can't believe I even thought twice about going on this trip!

It was worth every nauseated minute!

I missed my husband and kids terribly but I am glad I have a supportive loving husband that I can leave our kids with.

Thanks baby for letting me go on this journey.

I am kind of obsessed with Alaska now,

I just might have to visit again.

New curtains for an updated family room look!

noreply@blogger.com (Sadie Jane Sabin) — Wed, 12 Jun 2013 19:47:00 +0000

On top of my highly anticipated play room reveal, I have been dying to update my family/dining room.

I have SO many ideas up my sleeves that I am excited to start working on, but before anything I MUST change my curtains!

It's CRAZY how much my style can change after only 2 short years.

Thank goodness for evolving trends and timeless designs!

With that being said, I think I have narrowed down my top 5 favorites.

Which one do you like???

I have the absolute pleasure of working with Danielle from MADE MY DRAWSTRING again and I couldn't be more thrilled about it!

Tell me your choice or maybe another design or fabric choice that you are loving lately!!

Spring product review #3 for CENTRAL GARDEN & PET and a $25 American Express gift card giveaway!

noreply@blogger.com (Sadie Jane Sabin) — Mon, 10 Jun 2013 15:44:00 +0000

Disclosure: Post and giveaway sponsored by Central Garden & Pet and Moss Out! Spot Treater Shaker, but all opinions are my own. Please see below for additional disclosure.

I'm back to bring you all another GREAT giveaway and talk to you about another AMAZING product for your grass, garden and plants!

I'm BACK to bring you all another AMAZING new product for your garden, shrub or plants!!! - See more at: http://www.simplysadiejane.com/#sthash.Bf82ZGPF.dpuf

Disclosure: Post and giveaway sponsored by Central Garden & Pet and Ironite Plus Liquid Lawn& Garden Spray 6-2-1, but all opinions are my own. Please see below for additional disclosure.

I'm BACK to bring you all another AMAZING new product for your garden, shrub or plants!!!

- See more at: http://www.simplysadiejane.com/#sthash.Bf82ZGPF.dpuf

Disclosure: Post and giveaway sponsored by Central Garden & Pet and Ironite Plus Liquid Lawn& Garden Spray 6-2-1, but all opinions are my own. Please see below for additional disclosure.

I'm BACK to bring you all another AMAZING new product for your garden, shrub or plants!!!

- See more at: http://www.simplysadiejane.com/#sthash.Bf82ZGPF.dpuf

Disclosure: Post and giveaway sponsored by Central Garden & Pet and Ironite Plus Liquid Lawn& Garden Spray 6-2-1, but all opinions are my own. Please see below for additional disclosure.

I'm BACK to bring you all another AMAZING new product for your garden, shrub or plants!!!

- See more at: http://www.simplysadiejane.com/#sthash.Bf82ZGPF.dpuf

Disclosure: Post and giveaway sponsored by Central Garden & Pet and Ironite Plus Liquid Lawn& Garden Spray 6-2-1, but all opinions are my own. Please see below for additional disclosure.

I'm BACK to bring you all another AMAZING new product for your garden, shrub or plants!!!

- See more at: http://www.simplysadiejane.com/#sthash.Bf82ZGPF.dp

The MOSSOUT!® line of herbicides controls moss on lawns, roofs, walkways, decks and structures with easy-to-use liquid and granular formulations designed to treat the problem without causing damage to plants and surfaces.

Kills nuisance moss growth in lawns within hours so that grass can grow into a thick, lush and deep green turf—discouraging further moss intrusion.

MOSS OUT!® for Lawns kills moss growth in lawns within hours so that grass can grow into a thick, lush and deep green turf—discouraging further moss intrusion.

MOSS OUT!®for Roofs & Walks is non-staining, non-corrosive formula that kills moss growth within hours on roofs, walkways, decks, patios, brick and unpainted cement.

How-To

Step 1: Prepare the Lawn – Apply anytime the lawn is moist and moss is actively growing. Treatment in fall or early spring is most effective. Mow the lawn to expose moss and remove grass clippings.

Step 2: Treat the Moss – For spot treatment, sprinkle granules over mossy areas in lawn. Refer to package for application rates. The container will treat up to 1,250 square feet of lawn. Immediately after sprinkling granules, water treated areas thoroughly. A gentle rain, even immediately after spot treatment, will not significantly affect the moss-killing ability of this product. Wait several days until moss turns black and dies, then gentle rake it out.

Step 3: Reduce Soil Acidity - Since grass may be slow to fill in bare spots, reseeding of treated areas is recommended. To reduce acidity, which may contribute to moss growth, apply a lime mineral supplement. Apply lime anytime-before, during or after moss control treatment.

Spot Treat Moss Around Ornamentals, Shrubs & In Flower Beds
1. Apply anytime moss is actively growing and the soil is moist.
2. Sprinkle granules over moss areas. Refer to package for application rates.
3. Immediately after sprinkling granules, water treated areas thoroughly.
4. Wait several days and carefully rake out dead moss.

Tips

Avoid applying product directly to flowers or ornamental shrubs as these plants may become “burned— or dried out to a point where plants are unable to recover. If contact occurs, use a hose to wash this product off treated plants immediately.

The people over at CENTRAL GARDEN & PETS are so thrilled that they get to show off their new products for Spring that they are giving away yet ANOTHER $25 gift card.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

GET EXCITED, IT'S FIVE SENSES FRIDAY TIME!!!!

noreply@blogger.com (Sadie Jane Sabin) — Fri, 07 Jun 2013 07:00:00 +0000

I've got a big announcement to make!

Are you ready?

Cause this is about to blow your mind.

I am teaming up with another amazing blogger to bring you a new, amazingly awesome video series called Five Senses Friday!

About every 2 weeks, there will be a video all about what we are sensing that week. They will be things that may be trending right now, or even things that are just attracting our senses at the time.

So who will be on these videos?

ROLL CALL!

McKenzie from Girl Loves Glam

Sadie from Simply Sadie Jane

We are so excited to start this journey together!

Now, who's ready for Five Senses Friday: Episode 1?!

Be sure to subscribe to our YouTube channel so you don't miss any of the Five Senses Friday episodes!

What are YOU sensing this week?

BEST KEPT FASHION SECRET REVEALED!

noreply@blogger.com (Sadie Jane Sabin) — Wed, 05 Jun 2013 04:27:00 +0000

Being a family of four and living off a new grad salary I've had to get pretty creative when it comes to shopping for clothing for my children and myself.

It's no secret that I'm a sucker for fashion and I love dressing the whole family in great outfits.

And as much as I would love to rock a Celine purse or Louis Vuitton heals, like some of the great fashion blogs out there, I know it's probably not going to happen in this lifetime.

But just because I don't own designer clothing doesn't mean I still can't make a fashion statement in the outfits I put together from places that we all can afford.

I'm sure we are all used to heading to the clearance sections or waiting for those coupons in the mail to get the best possible deals on the clothing that we love...

but have you ever tried shopping in other departments in the store.

Like shopping for yourself in the men's department or the little boys for your daughter!?!

It's one of my favorite things to do for the ENTIRE FAMILY!

Well, except Jeff.

The great thing about shopping in other departments is you can usually find some amazing deals that you wouldn't normally find in other departments.

Like this sweater for example!

I've been looking for an open, thick necked sweater for FOREVER!

One day I slipped into the men's clearance section intending to find some stuff for Jeff.

I ended up leaving with this sweater for under 20 dollars.

pictures from THIS blog post

{sweater: H&M men's section, sweats: H&M}

Not only are the deals awesome but the fit is WAY better than most of my sweaters I've purchased in the past!

They are extra long,

they still fit great wash after wash,

and they are cut more slim in the chest, which is a HUGE plus for me!

WANT TO KNOW ANOTHER SECRET!?!

See those sweet Nike Free's I'm rocking.

I snatched those right up from the YOUTH section of Foot Locker!

So instead of spending $120.00,

I spent $70.00!

A major plus to having small feet!

picture from THIS blog post

{sweater: H&M men's section, yoga pants: TJ MAXX, shoes: Nike}

You can dress up those men clothes too!!

{blazer: H&M, graphic tee: men's section H&M, jeans: Forever 21, watch: Betsy Johnson, wristband: Downeast, clutch: Diesel, socks: hubby's closet, shoes: Target}

If you dare, get really brave and buy a Transformers graphic tee just because it looks cool!

Oh, and it's super comfy.

{shirt: Target men's section, vest: TJMAXX, leggings: H&M, shoes: Nine West}

I've scored some amazing stuff for my little ones in different departments as well.

{sweater: Target boy's section, leggings: Walmart}

{jacket: Gap, jeggings: Target, boots: boy's section Cal Ranch}

{shirt: Gap, jackets: boys section Target, leggings: Guess, boots: Target}

I have been wanting some more leggings for Baylor but some of the online options are pricey!

He is able to crawl so much easier in leggings rather than pants so I went to Old Navy, walked straight to the baby girls section and got some great leggings for him for $8.00!

Next time you go shopping...

make sure you scout out ALL THE SECTIONS in your favorite store!

You never know what you're going to find!

You can thank me later for DOUBLING your shopping time!

Spring product review #2 for CENTRAL GARDEN & PET and a $25 American Express gift card giveaway!

noreply@blogger.com (Sadie Jane Sabin) — Tue, 04 Jun 2013 04:41:00 +0000

Disclosure: Post and giveaway sponsored by Central Garden & Pet and Ironite Plus Liquid Lawn& Garden Spray 6-2-1, but all opinions are my own. Please see below for additional disclosure.

I'm BACK to bring you all another AMAZING new product for your garden, shrub or plants!!!

For more than 55 years, Ironite® Brand mineral supplements have helped plants develop strong roots and lush, green growth.

Available in several special formulations, Ironite® ensures plants receive the essential secondary- and micro-nutrients needed for fast-acting and long-lasting “greening.”

Ironite®Plus Liquid Lawn & Garden Spray 6-2-1 is dual-acting that feeds through foliage and roots formulated with 1% Iron and does not cause plant “burn.”

Ironite®Plus Lawn & Plant Food 12-10-10 contains fast-acting nutrients for lush growth, strong roots, colorful flowers, and abundant fruits and vegetables

HOW-TO
1. Shake container well before attaching to a garden hose.

2. Next, turn on water. Follow directions on the sprayhead for opening and closing siphon valve.

3. Walking at a normal pace, direct spray from side to side to establish an even coverage pattern.

4. Apply to lawn and garden areas, and rinse any product that lands in the driveway, sidewalk or street back onto the lawn/garden.

TIPS

Use this product as a supplement to normal lawn fertilization. When used as directed, product provides 0.02 pounds of nitrogen per 1,000 square feet of lawn per application. Typically, lawns will use from 1 to 4 pounds of nitrogen per 1,000 square feet per growing season.

Do not apply near water, storm drains or drainage ditches, or if heavy rain is expected.

THE PEOPLE AT CENTRAL GARDEN & PETS LOVE my readers SO MUCH that they are giving away ANOTHER a $25 American Express GIFTCARD!!!!!
a Rafflecopter giveaway

Central Garden & Pet partnered with bloggers such as me to help educate us all about their products. As part of this program, I received compensation. They did not tell me what to purchase or what to say about the use of the products. Central Garden & Pet believes that consumers and bloggers are free to form their own opinions and share them in their own words. Central Garden & Pet’s policies align with WOMMA Ethics Code, FTC guidelines and social media engagement recommendations. A winner will be chosen by random and gift card fulfillment will be handled by a third party.

Time for a SILHOUTETTE CAMEO GIVEAWAY!!!!

noreply@blogger.com (Sadie Jane Sabin) — Fri, 31 May 2013 13:55:00 +0000

I have teamed up with some of my amazing blog friends and My Vinyl Direct to bring you the ultimate crafter giveaway!

A Brand New Silhouette Cameo Designer Bundle!

($450 value)

Complete with all the extras. Ready and waiting to ship to one lucky winner. There are lots of ways to enter, use the rafflecopter below! Want to know what you win?? Well here you go!

The Silhouette CAMEO & prize pack includes:

Silhouette electronic cutting tool
VINYL PACK from myvinyldirect.com (Twelve-12"x 24" Vinyl Sheets-you can choose colors!)
1 roll of 12" x 6' paper transfer tape
Gloss and Matte My Vinyl Direct Color Sample Decks
1 Squeegee application tool
Silhouette Studio software for Windows XP/Vista/7 and Mac OS X 10.5.8 and higher
Silhouette DE Upgrade Digital Code
51 exclusive cuttable designs
Power cable, USB cable
12" cutting mat
Cutting blade
$10 gift card to the Silhouette Online Store
Basic Instruction Guide
Manufacturer 1 year limited warranty
$50 Gift card to My Vinyl Direct
FREE SHIPPING.

You can check out the package at My Vinyl Direct and don't forget the upgrade for the design software comes with it!
My Vinyl Direct has all the supplies you need to use your Silhouette Cameo to make hundreds of projects! And the winner gets $50 in credit to buy whatever they want!!!

Isn't this package amazing??? I wish that I could win! A big Thanks to My Vinyl Direct for such an amazing package.

Are you still sitting on the fence on why you need this amazing tool?? Well how about a little Pinterest therapy. Silhouette Project Pinterest boards for tutorials, projects and inspiration!

My Silhouette board

Silhouette America Boards

My Vinyl Direct

Be sure to share some blog love with all the Bloggers and

My Vinyl Direct for bringing you this amazing giveaway!!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

*This promotion is sponsored by the above specified bloggers and My Vinyl Direct and is in no way affiliated with Silhouette America, Pinterest, or Facebook. We hereby release Pinterest, Facebook and Silhouette America of any liability related to this promotion, the receipt of prize winnings, etc. The giveaway will run from Friday, May 31st at 5:01 AM MDT and ends Friday June 7th at midnight MDT. Once the giveaway ends, winners will be chosen using Rafflecopter and contacted via e-mail within 24 hours. Winners will then have 48 hours to claim their prize or another winner will be chosen. This giveaway is open to US residents except where prohibited by law. Winners must be of full legal age . This group of bloggers are only responsible for sending out the prize. They are not responsible for loss, damage or theft once the prize is shipped. Participants will be responsible for any taxes, tariffs duties, etc. due upon delivery of the prize.

Baylor's first birthday bash with recipes and MORE!

noreply@blogger.com (Sadie Jane Sabin) — Thu, 30 May 2013 17:32:00 +0000

I had such a hard time coming up with a simple theme or idea for little B's first birthday!

I knew I didn't want anything TOO extreme yet I wanted something fun and memorable!

I stumbled upon the blog I'M TOPSY TURVY and found this amazing idea {HERE} !

I knew the second I saw it that it was EXACTLY what I wanted to do!!!!

I had so much fun recreating this party and adding my own little touches.

OH, and the most important part,

finding the RECIPES and coming up with my own recipes for all the goodness!

The circle garland you saw above was so simple, quick and easy.

I was planning on having a few hang behind the table but ran out of time between all the baking and such.

I knew I wanted some kind of extra touch for the table but I didn't want to spend a lot AND I didn't want it to take FOREVER!

All I did was,

1. Went to the paint section in the store and grabbed around 50 different paint sample color sheets.

2. Grabbed a circle hole punch and went to town!

3. With some string and tape I placed 2 circles together with the string in the middle. Creating a garland look!

{I placed the circles about an inch apart}

I took some smash cake pictures a couple days before, edited them a bit and ordered them online.

I have to say I was really annoyed with how they turned out!

They didn't look anything like how I edited them previously!

I didn't have time to reorder so I just went with it.

I guess that's what I get for ordering through 1 hour prints at Walmart, FOR THE LOVE!

After I picked up my toobrightoveredited photos, I grabbed my 6 panel window pane and Mod Podged the pictures to the back.

DISCLAIMER: when you Mod Podge to glass it doesn't dry.

Jeff had to use his drywall tools to scrap the excess glue off the front of the photo!

You can still see the glue a tad bit but I am pretending that it gives it a 'rustic' look!

NOW for the GOODNESS!!!

My dear friend Missy made the cake and cake pops for the party!

CHECK OUT HER WEBSITE!

If you live in the Southeastern Idaho area have her do your cake!!!

She is very talented and has great prices!

After making all these treats I wanted to do something simple for the cookies so I used the Betty Crocker Sugar Cookie pack,

added the ingredients they asked for then added 2 cups of funfetti cake batter and an extra 1/4 cup of butter!

I baked them per the directions on the back of the sugar cookie pack!

Melt your chocolate on parchment paper,

drizzle with sprinkles,

place in fridge for 30 minutes,

break apart while cold!

RECIPE FOUND {HERE}

4 Tbsp butter
6 cup marshmallows
1 cup dry cake mix (I used funfetti)
1 tsp vanilla
6 cup krispies
Rainbow sprinkles

Directions:

1. Pour your rice krispies and sprinkles in a large bowl and set aside.

2. Melt butter on low heat then add marshmellows and continue to stir on low heat until they are mostly melted.

3. Fold in vanilla and take off heat.

4. Immediately pour over rice krispies and fold together.

5. Place in a buttered cake pan and with lightly buttered fingers press down to level out the top.

6. Place in fridge for 30 minutes.

7. Cut into squares and dip into melted chocolate.

{I used chocolate chips that I melted in the microwave for 30 second increments.}

After dipping quickly sprinkle more sprinkles over your chocolate!

enjoy

ADAPTED FROM: The Teenage Taste

Ingredients:

For cookies:

1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 cup granulated sugar
2 sticks (1 cup) room-temperature, salted butter
1 large egg

For filling:

1/2 cup (1 stick) room-temperature, salted butter
1 3/4 cups powdered sugar
1/3 cup yellow cake mix
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 tablespoon milk
sprinkles

Directions:

Preheat oven to 375°F. Line a medium baking sheet with parchment and set aside.
In a food processor, or bowl of an electric mixer, thoroughly mix the flour, cocoa, baking soda and powder, salt, and sugar. While pulsing, or on low speed, add the butter, and then the egg. Continue processing or mixing until dough comes together in a mass.
Take rounded teaspoons of batter and place on the parchment paper-lined baking sheet approximately two inches apart. With moistened hands, slightly flatten the dough. Bake for 8 minutes.
To make the cream filling, beat butter and sugar together then add cake mix, vanilla, sprinkles, and milk if needed. Add food coloring at the end if desired. Turn the mixer on high and beat for 2 to 3 minutes until filling is light and fluffy.
To assemble the cookies, simply frost one side and place another cookie, equal in size to the first, on top of the cream. Lightly press, to work the filling evenly to the outsides of the cookie.
Then roll your cookies in sprinkles to achieve the look seen in the picture above!

Depending on size of cookie, recipe will yield 12-24

{mine were larger so it only yielded 12}

RECIPE FOUND {HERE}

We were all obsessed with the deliciousness!

It was a great day and I can't believe my little boy is one!!

Thank you to all the family and friends that came to celebrate with us!

WINNER OF THE ALBION FIT SWIMSUIT GIVEAWAY!!!

noreply@blogger.com (Sadie Jane Sabin) — Wed, 29 May 2013 16:45:00 +0000

CHECK OUT THE RAFFLECOPTER WIDGET BELOW TO SEE YOUR WINNER!!!!

Thanks to all who entered!!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

HAPPY 1ST BIRTHDAY LITTLE B!!! A year in pictures!

noreply@blogger.com (Sadie Jane Sabin) — Wed, 22 May 2013 15:18:00 +0000

I am so glad I have the absolute blessing of being your mother!

Thank you for coming to our family and bringing joy into our lives every single day.

I can't imagine our little family without you!

You have taught me more than you will ever know.

I love you little B.

Oh, and thanks for letting me suck your face off like every single second of every single day!!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY!

I left a little piece of my heart in ARIZONA!

noreply@blogger.com (Sadie Jane Sabin) — Tue, 21 May 2013 06:09:00 +0000

You see that beautiful girl on the left of me?

That would be Molly,

Molly Parks!

My cousin's wife.

That beautiful girl is really the reason why I FINALLY got my butt down to Arizona to visit some very special people.

When I say special people I really mean amazing family that I couldn't imagine my life without!

I honestly wasn't expecting this trip to be so therapeutic and healing for me.

TRUTH.

It was MORE than I had dreamed!

{the pictures are a bit smaller because they came from my dad's camera. Just FYI}

If you go to my 'ABOUT ME' tab you will see me RAMBLING ON about my life.

If you read really close you will read that I was blessed enough to have 2 fathers.

My parents divorced when I was 3 and I moved away from my dad when I was 7.

It feels pretty spectacular to tell you that my relationship with my pops is better than it's ever been!

And NOT just with my dad,

but with all my extended family as well!

It was very humbling for me to be around such loving people.

People that would stop anything for family.

The kind of people that make you better.

We laughed, shopped, talked, played, swam, ate, ate some more, and some more, and laughed some more, stayed up real late, cried, confessed, forgave, mended and loved.

The ONLY thing that was missing on this trip was my precious husband and little R!

Thank you family.

For everything.

Spring product review for CENTRAL GARDEN & PET and a $25 American Express gift card giveaway!

noreply@blogger.com (Sadie Jane Sabin) — Tue, 21 May 2013 02:00:00 +0000

Disclosure: Post and giveaway sponsored by Central Garden & Pet and GardenTech Worry Free Brand, but all opinions are my own. Please see below for additional disclosure.

I am so EXCITED to bring you all this AMAZING new product for your garden, shrub or plants!!!

With a special formulation that contains pyrethrins, a botanical insecticide naturally-derived from Chrysanthemum flowers, GardenTech® Worry Free® Brand Insecticides are ideally suited to protect fruits, vegetables and ornamentals.

WANT TO LEARN ABOUT HOW AWESOME THIS IS PRODUCT IS!?

The line of specialized insecticides provide fast-acting, effective control of more than 250 crawling and flying insects, including ants, caterpillars, mites and Japanese beetles.

Worry Free® Insecticides can be applied throughout the growing season, including right up until the day before harvest to kill “last minute” vegetable garden pests. Initial application should occur at the first sign of insect infestation, preferably before extensive damage and feeding has taken place. The GardenTech®Worry Free® line even kills insect eggs during the dormant stage.

The line is suitable for use in home vegetable and flower gardens, nurseries, home greenhouses and orchards. This includes a wide range of plants: vegetables, fruit trees, garden fruits, nuts, herbs, spices, roses, flowers, shrubs, evergreen and shade trees, and other outdoor plants.

To address a broad spectrum of needs, GardenTech® Worry Free® Insecticides are available in concentrate, dust, hose-accessible (ready-to-spray) and ready-to-use formulations.

AND...IT'S LITERALLY FOOL PROOF TO USE!

How-To Wearing household latex or rubber gloves, use the ready-to-use bottle to apply product.

1. First, water the plants to be treated thoroughly.

2. Shake well. Then, start applying at the furthest corner of the treatment area and work backward. Apply when air is calm to avoid drift and contact with eyes or skin.

3. Turn spray nozzle to the on position, and hold spray nozzle approximately 12” from the plants.

4. Spray thoroughly covering pests on the upper and lower leaf surfaces until surfaces are slightly wet. Avoid over-saturation.

5. Allow liquid to dry in treated areas before re-entering. Wash hands after usage, as well as fruits and vegetables before eating.

We interrupt these messages to look at precious pictures of little R in the rain!

...and we're back!

Tips
This product must come into contact with insects in order to kill them. Once pests come into contact with this product, it quickly penetrates and disrupts their nervous systems. A few minutes after application, targeted pests are unable to move or fly away.
·Many insects hide on the underside of the leaf so ensure you’re not missing those plant areas.
·Apply in the twilight hours of the evening or just before sunrise to avoid possible harm to beneficial honey bees. Honey bees normally forage during the daylight hours, when temperatures reach or exceed 55 degrees F.
·Product should be used at the first sign of insect infestation, preferably before extensive damage and feeding has taken place. For optimal effectiveness, this product even kills insect eggs during the dormant stage.
·Depending on the edible, the spray can be applied throughout the growing season, including the day before harvest to address “last minute” garden pests.
·To address a broad spectrum of needs, this insecticide is available in concentrate, dust, hose-accessible (ready-to-spray) and ready-to-use formulations.
{THIS WOULD BE MY...GETTIN' MY SPRAY ON FACE!}
or something like that

THE PEOPLE AT CENTRAL GARDEN & PETS LOVE my readers SO MUCH that they are giving away a $25 American Express GIFTCARD!!!!!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

ALBION FIT SWIMSUIT GIVEAWAY

noreply@blogger.com (Sadie Jane Sabin) — Thu, 16 May 2013 07:57:00 +0000

I took pictures of me in a swimsuit people!!

I must just REALLY love my Albion Fit swimsuit if I felt good enough in it to do that!!

The girls at Albion Fit and I have been talking since the beginning of April about doing a swimsuit giveaway for my readers to kick off spring AND the grand opening of their brand new store at CITY CREEK MALL in SALT LAKE CITY, UT!

I talked them into holding off the giveaway so I could take some shots of my amazing new suit in a gorgeous location!

{oh and I guess it has something to do with the fact that it snowed in Idaho like a week ago, no lie}

Last weekend I flew down to Arizona to spend some much needed time with family and, before I ate every single carbohydrate and sugar coated item in the house, I took some pictures for you all to show off my gorgeous suit!

Did you notice my perfect sun-touched skin!?!

No, I didn't layout in the 50 degree weather to get the perfect glow before going to Arizona!

The day before I headed down south I was completed spoiled and pampered by the amazing staff at NAMASTE WELLNESS SPA and SALON!

Everyone who lives in or around Rexburg, ID needs to go there for an experience unlike any other!

Their relaxing yet eclectic environment makes you want to return day after day.

From permanent makeup, massages, a full salon, and the best spray tanning system in the area,

you will not leave disappointed!

In fact, after you purchase your Albion Fit swimsuit,

stop into Namaste and tell them I sent you to get an amazing spray tan to look FAB in your new suit!!

BACK TO THE SWIMSUIT TALK!

Could you die over the ruching and the detail that wraps around the bodice!?!

It just squeezes everything in and keeps it there nice and tight!!

Major plus.

So let's just get real here and talk about what I know some of you moms, like me, have problems with!

Finding swimsuits to fit those postbreastfeedinglittlenonexistentboobs!

Yeah...now that that is out there, I can tell you all,

there IS a swimsuit for you!!

This SO MESHED SUIT from ALBION FIT perfectly tucks in those places that you want and adds some curve and shape in those other places that you may need a little assistance!

Never fear all you other hot mamas with different rockin' body types!!

Albion has many swimsuits for all different styles that really show off the best parts of your bod!

NOW...I think you've seen enough pictures of my swimsuit!

You know you want one of your own!

BUT,

just in case you don't win

Albion loves you all so much they even added a

$15 off any $50 or more purchase on albionfit.com!

Just enter "sadiejaneswim" at checkout.

BUT HURRY

{The code is only valid through Saturday}

a Rafflecopter giveaway

PS
Do you LOVE the little facelift I added to the blog!?!
So fresh and so clean clean

Enjoying your Perspective. and a couple of winners!

noreply@blogger.com (Sadie Jane Sabin) — Wed, 15 May 2013 22:16:00 +0000

Last weekend Baylor and I jumped on a plane and headed down to Arizona for some much needed family time.

{post coming about my trip soon}

It was great to see family and be apart of their everyday lives for a few days.

Of course one of the best parts about traveling for me is seeing the different cities and the way people live.

I'm no stranger to travel, in fact I LOVE visiting big cities and often times wished I lived in a bigger city.

I feel as if I visit large cities often enough that I get my 'fix'.

But I will oftentimes find myself wishing I lived in the city permanently.

I think the thing I take for granted most is the fact that I DON'T live in a big city.

Let me explain a bit,

while Molly {my cousin} and I were driving around Glendale we started talking about the differences between where I live and where she lives.

First it was the obvious stuff like how I think it's crazy that they don't have grass in Arizona.

I couldn't live without my grass for those summer nights of throwing the football around the backyard and playing catch.

I realize that's all about climate but then we started talking about our perspectives on the location in which we live.

There was no debate that I live in a completely different environment than she does!

She asked questions like,

"What do you even do in Idaho?"

Haha, I can understand why she feels that way!

To people that have never been here, Idaho can be as foreign a land to them as Kansas is to me!

I listed off to her some of the major 'touristy' things to do around the area like white water rafting on the Snake, or fishing in Island Park, four-wheeling at the sand dunes or sightseeing in Yellowstone.

Even dinner in Jackson.

But to me, all of this is normal to me since I was raised in the area.

"Watching Old Faithful go off gets old after the 5th or 6th field trip!"

We continued asking questions about each others hometowns.

She added,

"It's weird that people come here for vacations when it's just where I live!"

Living by this stadium or that store or the Grand Canyon even!

"It's all just normal for me!"

I am sure you all can relate,

you probably live by something that people would love to see or visit.

It is all about perspective.

But isn't it great that we can all live in such unique, beautiful places and each have such a different appreciation for the 'simple things in life'.

Like grass.

Or store location.

Or 100 degree weather.

Or taking a morning walk with little R across the street to say good morning to the neighbors.

Our horse friends; Horris, Lucy, Norman and Bob!

{we named them}

I think that is why traveling and exploring new places is so important!

By enjoying new places, seeing new sites and observing different cultures, we begin to appreciate what we have around us in our everyday lives.

I realized Arizona is not like traveling to Rome or Germany,

but even traveling 890 miles away can really give you some perspective.

So tonight while your sipping tea on your balcony that looks out over the city of Chicago,

rocking your little one to sleep outside by the pool in Arizona,

painting in an apartment that overlooks the Puget Sound in Seattle,

or falling asleep to the sound of tractors in a nearby hay field in Idaho,

remember that even though it all seems mundane and somewhat ordinary most of the time,

millions of people would kill for your perspective!

So enjoy it!

Every minute of it!

Because you don't know what you could be missing!

OH and the WINNERS of the PRINTED PALETTE AND CORA MAE DESIGN GIVEAWAY are posted below!!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

XOXO

MADE IN IDAHO $400+ value GIVEAWAY!

noreply@blogger.com (Sadie Jane Sabin) — Tue, 14 May 2013 20:30:00 +0000

Did you know that many of your favorite online businesses and bloggers are from the state of Idaho? Most people think of potatoes and Napoleon Dynamite when they think of Idaho, but there is a lot of talent packed into the great state of Idaho! That is why several of the Idaho bloggers wanted to join together in celebration of just how great Idaho really is and host a BIG giveaway!All of the items being given away are from businesses here in Idaho who have customers all over the world! One lucky person is going to win over $400 worth of amazing prizes. We love our Idaho businesses and want to continue to support what they do! Please remember to shop from each of these Idaho businesses! Karen's CookiesCut it OutExpressions VinylCosette's ClosetYounique by DebiSwagger BoutiqueIf You Can't Fail it Doesn't Count on AmazonFawn and FoalHandmade Soap ShackBugabooStitch to StitchMy Vinyl DirectArtistry By McKenzie GThe Jean GirlTo enter, use the Rafflecopter widget below. Good luck!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

My first ER visit as a mother!!

noreply@blogger.com (Sadie Jane Sabin) — Mon, 13 May 2013 20:05:00 +0000

I'm not sure how I avoided it with Reagan but somehow I managed to stir clear of the ER for the last 2 1/2 year that I've been a mother.

Granted, that really isn't that long of a time but if you knew little miss Reagan you would soon realize I should have received a medal for that accomplishment!

We have had our little community care coughs and ear aches here and there but overall we have been very blessed in our family with great health!

BUT a rainy day in April would change the Sabin Family Health Statistics for FOREVER!

I'm getting ahead of myself!

Let's start at the very beginning, when this mom just HAD to go pee while she was cleaning the kitchen and didn't think twice about leaving the multipurpose cleaner out on the edge of the counter while she literally ran to the bathroom and back again.

{You fellow moms know that if you spend longer than .9 seconds in the bathroom your children rise against you forming an army of little midgets who destroy whatever is in their path!}

Well, I had probably been gone from the kitchen for maybe 30 seconds when I started hearing the kids laughing loudly.

I knew something was up but didn't think anything too severe was happening, I mean how could it be that bad if the kids were laughing.

I walked into the kitchen to see Reagan under the dining room table with the spray bottle harnessed between her legs and her chubby little hands on the trigger.

Not 4 feet in front of her, her little brother Baylor was crawling towards her with his face soaked with cleaning solution.

That's when the mother panic mode kicked in.

Honestly I wasn't too worried due to the fact that I use all natural cleaning materials but I knew it was still going to be tender to his eyes.

I promptly took him to the bathroom and rinsed out his eyes.

I then put him down for a nap a couple hours later and he never particularly acted like he was being bothered by his eyes.

Jeff came home from work before Baylor woke up from his nap and got him out of his crib, that is when it really started to get scary.

I was suppose to go to work but Baylor wouldn't open his eyes or stop crying.

After calling poison control we decided to take him into the ER.

We dropped Reagan off at a friends and headed in.

The ER visit was horrible.

I had to help hold him down while they focused his eyes open for 30 minutes straight and flushed them with sterile water.

It was the longest 30 minutes of my life and he screamed loud enough for the whole hospital to hear the whole time.

Pretty much the only thing that got me through it was realizing that it could be much worse, he could have had to get an IV or spinal tap.

To keep myself from completemothermeltdown, I kept that in the back of my mind.

When the flush was done he finally opened his eyes for us!

He only kept them open for 2 minutes or less but at least we could tell he could still see our faces!

The doctor sent us home with some saline flushes, antibiotic ointment and numbing solution for his eyes.

He also mentioned that if I had been using a bleach based solution there is a good chance little B would be blind because of it eating away his eyes.

It was the surfactant in our natural solution that bothered his eyes therefore causing him to rub them and give him a rip in his cornea.

We had to flush his eyes a couple more times during the night but he slept great otherwise.

When he woke up the next day he wouldn't open his eyes all day.

It was literally as if I had a blind child.

He wouldn't let me put him down and he wouldn't take his head off my shoulder for anything.

It broke my heart every 4 hours giving him antibiotics and flushing his eyes.

I didn't realize how swollen his eyes were until I had to force them open and see all the tissue blocking his eye.

He would sit on my lap and just play with his toys without opening his eyes.

For 2 days all I could do is cuddle him and give him loves.

How he took his naps!

He literally wouldn't let me put his down for anything!

At night when Jeff would get home he would open his eyes for only a minute to see him because he recognized his voice!

This was him finally eating some food after not eating anything but milk for 2 days.

After almost 2 full days of keeping his eyes closed he finally started being his happy, active self again!

Finally 5 days later he was good as new!

We finally got our Baylor back!

I am so grateful for the power of the priesthood and my husband who was able to give my little B blessings of health throughout these scary days.

Thank goodness there was no permanent side effects!

I now put all my cleaning supplies away before leaving the room even if it's just for a second!

The ER and I are not friends and I don't ever want to go back there with one of my children!

{as I am writing this Reagan is jumping off the table onto the couches}

Thank goodness for all those angels that watch over our children and keep them alive!

I wish I could make them cookies!

XOXO

IT'S AWESOME GIVEAWAY TIME with THE PRINTED PALETTE and CORA MAE DESIGN!

noreply@blogger.com (Sadie Jane Sabin) — Tue, 07 May 2013 17:27:00 +0000

If you have kids you know how hard it is to find comfortable play clothes for them.

Play clothes that don't have some kind of animated character stitched to the side or clothes that you don't have to change before heading into town.

Well, look no further, I have brought 2 amazing designers together for a giveaway that can benefit the whole family!

If you haven't heard of

The Printed Palette you're probably living under a rock!

They are THE brand to wear this Spring and Summer!

Their trendy yet eclectic company has perfectly captured how to feel comfortable and make a statement all at the same time.

I could LIVE in their t-shirts.

My kids could too.

Their kids t-shirts are beyond comfortable and they use only water based inks so they are free from harmful chemicals!

Did you notice the amazing leggings I paired with the kids t-shirts?

Jacque from Cora Mae Design is a beautiful up and coming designer of all things from digital prints to necklaces!

Everything she creates is full of creativity and personal touch.

I LOVE these little leggings for my babes.

They are perfect for those Spring days at the park.

{just pretend like my hair isn't a hot mess...the wind was not nice to me}

Now that you've seen just how much fun we've had in our clothes,

you know you want to win some of this goodness!

YOU COULD WIN:

A $32.00 gift card to THE PRINTED PALETTE

A pair of leggings from CORA MAE DESIGN

Enter through the Rafflecopter giveaway app below!

GOOD LUCK!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

XOXO

CELEBRATE NURSE'S WEEK!!

noreply@blogger.com (Sadie Jane Sabin) — Mon, 06 May 2013 17:46:00 +0000

Today is NATIONAL NURSE'S DAY!

I thought I would celebrate by sharing some of my favorite Pinterest sayings that I've found over the years!

Although these all seem very sarcastic and a bit cynical, I really do LOVE my job.

I am beyond blessed to have the degree that I do.

I am able to help support our little family while Jeff gains experience in his career.

It's pretty amazing that I am able to go to work and be apart of couples special moments.

Knowing that I am helping bring life into this world makes leaving my precious kids for those 12 hours just a little bit easier.

Although I would obviously rather be home with my kids, if I have to work, it helps knowing that I have such an awesome job.

No, it's not all rainbows and roses.

There are those shifts that you will never forget.

The really difficult situations that you wish you never had to experience.

Or those patients that you will never be able to please.

Or even those emergency situations that you wonder how you got through.

But that is when you get on your knees and pray that you will understand that everything happens for a reason and thank those little angels that were with you through it all.

I am grateful for the inspiration I receive during my shift that helps me know exactly what to do in emergency situations.

I am grateful for my fellow nurses who make me a better person in every aspect of my life every time I work.

I am grateful for my patients who teach me so many lessons about life and love.

I am grateful for those precious little newborns that I get to hold and feel a little piece of heaven close to me for those tender moments.

I am grateful that I am a nurse, it truly has made me the person I am today!

Remember to thank a nurse today!

XOXO

MY HOME DEPOT SPRING PROJECT RECAP #digin

noreply@blogger.com (Sadie Jane Sabin) — Sat, 04 May 2013 04:53:00 +0000

This is a sponsored post written by me on behalf of The Home Depot.

(All thoughts and opinions are my own}

It has been a BLAST having this opportunity to work with The Home Depot and receive product to enhance our backyard.

Every time I step outside to play with my kids I am reminded that our backyard is no longer an impossible project that looks intimidating, overwhelming and just too much work.

We have a new found confidence that we will carry on with us through the summer as we tackle more projects in our yard and in our home.

It is amazing that we can pull off something so beautiful in just ONE DAY and ONE STOP!

The Home Depot really does have everything you need for those ginormous projects that you want to conquer this Spring!

Sometimes when the kids are taking naps, I will come out here and just stand

and look

and smile.

The Home Depot really knows how to set you up for success.

Any project you tackle with them will sure make you feel proud.

Remember that no project is too big if you use your resources and go to the right place for all your materials.

Jeff and I already have lists written down for what we have in store for our next projects!

Staining our fence, planting a garden and adding pops of color with flowers are just a few examples of what we have up our sleeves this Spring!

We actually stopped by The Home Depot today to pick up a few upgrades for our new project! {Home Depot on a Saturday is a must for us}

Stay tuned to see our latest outdoor projects as they unfold this summer.

There may be a post coming up soon about a lonely old swing set that was rescued by the Sabin’s and brought back to life! Sounds awesome and dramatic huh!?!

Make sure to check out all my posts relating to this project to get tips and instructions!

HOME DEPOT POST 1

HOME DEPOT POST 2

HOME DEPOT POST 3

HOME DEPOT POST 4

Where are you going to put your Zipper Pathway?

It’s home improvement time, and The Home Depot has everything you need to #DigIn for Spring. No matter what projects you want to tackle, they have great values on all you need. They’re ready to help you with renovation ideas and expert advice, too.

Get over $300 in email exclusive savings each year, sneak peeks on new products, monthly lawn & garden ideas for your region and access to The Home Depot’s gardening experts. Click here to join the world’s largest garden community today!

Or go to
http://gardenclub.homedepot.com/ to see some of the many benefits of membership.

This is a sponsored post written by me on behalf of The Home Depot.

XOXO

TAKE YOUR D.I.Y. TO THE NEXT LEVEL! You CAN use POWER TOOLS!!

noreply@blogger.com (Sadie Jane Sabin) — Fri, 03 May 2013 04:00:00 +0000

When I went onto STUDIO 5 to show off THE HANDMADE HOME: 22 INSPIRING IDEAS TO BRING YOUR WALLS TO LIFE last Monday there was ONE thing that I REALLY wanted everyone to take away from the segment.

Something that I have been learning since Jeff and I became home owners 2 years ago!

The simple fact that EVERYONE can learn and grow and EVERYONE can take that next step in their DIY home decor.

A step towards POWER TOOL GOODNESS LAND!

When I scrolled through the pages of The Handmade Home I was so inspired and very intimidated at first, but then I realized that I already had half of those tools in my garage.

I KNEW that Jeff would jump on the idea of using those tools for yet another project!
Of course I told him there was a CATCH.

I wanted to learn how to use the BIG TOOLS!
The scary power tools that he was suppose to use, not me!

I have used a drill on many occasions but for these projects I wanted to stretch myself and learn the ropes behind a table saw, jig saw and miter saw.

With the inspiration and dedication you can create your dream decor pieces!

Accomplishing these projects with Jeff made me realize that with the right tools the options are endless.

You can make beautiful eye catching pieces with your own hands!

"Frustration can be a good thing.

It forced us to look for a solution.

And from that struggle, we grew."

{quote from The Handmade Home ebook}

Who knew you could learn such inspiring lifelong lessons while learning how to use power tools!?!

I am going to utilize that quote in every aspect of my life for now on.

Check out all the behind the scene pictures of our projects and, in the end, I hope you leave just as inspired as we are!

DESIGN FOR

DESIGN FROM

DESIGN FROM

DESIGN FROM

DESIGN FROM

Amazing tips from

THE HANDMADE HOME EBOOK!!

DESIGN FROM

DESIGN FROM:

DESIGN FROM:

DESIGN FROM:

BEFORE

AFTER

"WHEN YOU FINALLY LET GO...THE POSSIBILITIES ARE ENDLESS!"
{quote from the ebook The Handmade Home}

Doing these projects really helped me realize that perfection is out and creativity is in.

This is a great opportunity for that person out there that has been nervous about going to that next level with their DIY decor to pick up that drill or saw (after proper training of course) and MAKE SOMETHING!

My husband teaches me more and more every time we do a project together.

I learn so much from that wonderful man of mine.

It's such a great opportunity for us to bond, learn from each other and praise each other for our accomplishments.

I used to not even want to hold a drill, it was as foreign as a gun to me, but now I’m the drill master!

{OR mother driller}

Don’t be afraid to step out of the box with your decor!

Maybe you have been telling yourself,

"Man I have really wanted to try this or that in my home but should I really?"

"Will it look great by all my store bought pieces?"

The pictures above can answer that question for you!

Let go of that fear and tackle those difficult projects.

Learn from your mistakes.

Believe in yourself.

From all that hard work you will have something to be proud of!

Your decor will mean so much more when you walk past it or catch a glance of it out of the corner of your eye.

TAKE THE POWER TOOL PLUNGE!!

BUY THE HANDMADE HOME EBOOK AND BECOME INSPIRED!!

You know what you're doing for next date night!

XOXO

MY HOME DEPOT SPRING PROJECT STEP BY STEP VLOG #digin

noreply@blogger.com (Sadie Jane Sabin) — Wed, 01 May 2013 23:09:00 +0000

This is a sponsored post written by me on behalf of The Home Depot.

All thoughts and opinions are my own, I am so thrilled to have this opportunity to work with The Home Depot and receive product to enhance our backyard

ARE YOU ALL READY TO SEE MY STEP BY STEP PROCESS FOR MY ZIPPER PATHWAY!?!

Jeff and I had such a great experience building our Zipper Pathway.

I was so impressed by the specific instructions and tips that The Home Depot provided in their HOW TO guide.

It was so fun to see how quickly our backyard could be transformed into a gorgeous, green oasis!

All of which took us ONE DAY!!

8 AM: We woke up on a dreary, overcast Saturday morning, packed our bundled up kids in the truck and headed out to The Home Depot.

10 AM: We were back home and unloading the pickup! While I put Baylor down for a nap and got Reagan a snack, Jeff prepared the area for the Zipper Pathway.

1 PM: Our Zipper Pathway area is READY. We then placed the paver base and sand in preparation for the stones.

2 PM: We laid our stones and planted our shrubs and bushes.

3:30 PM: Laid our mulch. Swept off our stones. Raked our area into perfection.

4 PM: DONE!

It was windy and cold the WHOLE DAY but we still managed to pull ALL this off!

We could have NEVER done it without the help from The Home Depot!

ANYONE WANT TO SEE HOW WE DID IT!?!

Check out this SWEET VIDEO Jeff and I made throughout the process of our Zipper Pathway!

When I say SWEET I really mean, totally and completely makeshiftputtogether amateur video!

DISCLAIMER:

Just pretend like you don't have to watch my ginormous thighs that I shoved into those skinny jeans as they saunter through the yard paired with my work boots! The only good thing that I could think of that came out of that was the sad fact that I now know that I MUST NEVER wear those jeans unless they are paired with 7 inch heels! I, Sadie Jane, vow to never make that fashion mishap again!

Oh and make sure you don't pay attention to the wind and rain that was conveniently accompanying us throughout the recording. If you can ignore that than you can pretend like you don't hear Jeff sniffing up the snot from his runny nose RIGHT!?!
ALSO, please try to understand my jumbled up words as I explain the process! There is a part of the video that is particularly hard to understand! After the fast forwarded version of the stone laying I attempted to explain an issue we had while laying our stones.
Really what I meant to say was that our string we used in the beginning to ensure our edge was straight should have been up throughout the whole project so we could use it as a guide to line our paver stones up with.
We obviously took the string off prematurely so we had to use a tape measure to measure from the house to the middle of our stones, ensuring us that we had the same length of space between each set of stones and the house.
{It will make sense when you watch the video}

Yes, it is safe to say that Jeff and I will not be winning any kind of awards for this video gem!

K, now that we have that out of the way,

ENJOY OUR HOW TO VIDEO OF OUR ZIPPER PATHWAY!

Or go to

http://gardenclub.homedepot.com/ to see some of the many benefits of membership.

This is a sponsored post written by me on behalf of The Home Depot.

I AM LIKE THE MOTHER DRILLER!!

noreply@blogger.com (Sadie Jane Sabin) — Tue, 30 Apr 2013 05:44:00 +0000

YEP...I said that in my segment today!!

"I AM LIKE THE MOTHER DRILLER!"

Who says that?...

honestly...I'm just glad that I didn't add a "YO" at the end!

{watch and bracelets: nordstroms, necklace: tjmaxx, shirt: tjmaxx, belt: Target, pants: Target, Shoes: tjmaxx}

just FYI...

my family has decided it is my new nickname...for FOREVER and EVER...

you would think I said to them...

please PLEASE remind me of that time I said MOTHER DRILLER on air for the rest of my life! FOR THE LOVE...

as if that wasn't enough...

I came to a SAD realization today!...

I lick my lips when I'm nervous!!!

I did it throughout the whole segment...WHY!!!!

When I was the MC for my DARE Graduation in 6th grade I remember watching myself on the video and seeing my tongue slowly emerge from my mouth like 100 times!! I was so mortified when I saw it...I don't even realize I do it...can't I like play with my hair or fidget with my fingers!?!

NOPE...

the nasty lip licking has been my nervous twitch since the beginning of time...

...SO...

if you can look past my lip licking and my made up words...

here is my segment from STUDIO 5 this morning!

*ENJOY*

AND

THE WINNER OF THE LAST WEEKS GIVEAWAY IS ANNOUNCED BELOW!!

EMAIL ME IF THIS IS YOU!

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XOXO

MY HOME DEPOT SHOPPING EXPERIENCE #Digin

noreply@blogger.com (Sadie Jane Sabin) — Sun, 28 Apr 2013 19:37:00 +0000

This is a sponsored post written by me on behalf of The Home Depot

(all thoughts and opinions are my own)

Raise your hand if you LOVE great customer service...because I know I do!!

When Jeff and I became home owners our eyes were open to the magical land of The Home Depot.

The first time we stepped into that store it was like walking into a completely different world!

A world covered wall to wall with EVERY SINGLE THING YOU COULD POSSIBLE IMAGINE that you would need for your home inside and out.

A world with perfectly cut wood pieces stacked high to the ceiling and paint cans lined up in intricate rows just waiting to be personalized with it's perfect color.

A world with people walking around in bright orange aprons with there names written in marker on the front corner and a smile on their face just WAITING to help that next DIYer or desperate homeowner who needs advice or blogger who is dying to create another tutorial post with the materials she collects!

It's safe to say that The Home Depot is one of my favorite places to shop...

and dare I say it...

JEFF'S favorite place to shop too!!

When I learned I was going to have to opportunity to build the Zipper Pathway I grabbed my laptop, printed off the materials list...FOUND HERE...and headed off to The Home Depot.

I didn't take 5 steps into the door before a man with one of those bright orange aprons came up to me and asked if I needed any help!

I simply handed him my list of materials and said...

"I want to make this!"

He gave me a smile and told me to follow him!

Before I knew it I had ALL the materials I needed for my Zipper Pathway.

I was amazed by the service I received!

They were even helpful in suggesting what kind of materials I should use in my pathway.

Since I live in the FROZEN TUNDRA, also known as Idaho, it is still pretty much winter here!

No for reals...it just snowed like 2 days ago!

Because of that, the Home Depot team suggested that I use mulch for in between my stones since it has a great contrast in color and it can stand any weather thrown in its way!

It was also too early in the season for flowers so we decided to snatch up this amazing deal they had for shrubs!

In less than 45 minutes I was set to go with all my materials!

A huge thanks to the amazing Home Depot team for being awesome and helping me start my project off right!

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Get over $300 in email exclusive savings each year, sneak peeks on new products, monthly lawn & garden ideas for your region and access to The Home Depot’s gardening experts. Click here to join the world’s largest garden community today! Or go to http://gardenclub.homedepot.com/ to see some of the many benefits of membership.

This is a sponsored post written by me on behalf of The Home Depot.

STAY TUNED TO SEE THE AMAZING VIDEO JEFF AND I PUT TOGETHER WHILE BUILDING OUR ZIPPER PATHWAY!

XOXO