wanted.

What to Watch this Summer

noreply@blogger.com (Megean) — Fri, 20 Jun 2014 02:45:00 +0000

The heat is rising and the days are long. Time to head inside to watch television in that glorious thing we call air conditioning! If you're looking for something to watch this summer, pair one of the hits below with an ice cold margarita and live it up while you can. It'll be back to cop shows and serial dramas before we know it.

True Blood

This one's obvious - it's the final season! It's bound to be epic. Our Bon Temps friends are facing serious hardship with these diseased vamps laying waste to the area. And what is going on with Eric!?! Will everyone make it to the series finale? Will we see any old familiar faces? I'm not-so-secretly hoping for the heroic return of Hoyt. Hijack your best friend's HBOGo password or watch in realtime Sunday nights.

Suits

I've talked about my love for Suits before, and it's back in a big way. Mike is on the other side of the deposition table these days, so who knows what is going to happen. We do know, however, that there will be handsome young men in tailored suits spouting witty dialogue left and right. Plus, Donna is BOSS. Suits is on USA on Wednesday nights.

Orphan Black

I'm including Orphan Black on the list even though there's only one episode left. Orphan Black follows the intersecting lives of mysterious clones and the scientists who are oh so invested in them. You may think that Helena's the one with the most issues, but I contend my gal Alison could give her a run for her money. The season two finale airs this Saturday on BBC America, so get on that.

Beauty and the Beast

The CW renewed Beauty and the Beast despite low ratings because fans are diehard and light up social media during airtime. The low ratings are a mystery to me, because I'm hooked on this one. BATB is especially great right now because the show's getting back to the dynamics that worked so well in season one: Vincent on the run, Kat's job in a lurch, Gabe being his evil self - even Kat's sister jumped back in the mix. See what the fuss is about on the CW, Monday nights.

So, what will you be watching this summer?

images: fanpop, tv.com, hitfix, tvline

Let's Make a Ruffle Cake

noreply@blogger.com (Megean) — Wed, 18 Jun 2014 14:00:00 +0000

Are kids different these days? Have they changed since the golden age of The Baby-sitters Club? I'm pretty far removed, but it seems like they're all into Justin Bieber and Snapchat.

Oh, too scandalous for a first birthday? Good. We can focus on the innocence of ruffles and flowers instead. Much more my speed.

When Emily's mom asked me if I could do a ruffle cake for her first birthday it sounded like a fun challenge. (Unlike running, which is not a fun challenge.) I did a test run (or three) to get my technique just right, and to determine which size piping tip to use.

You won't find a step-by-step tutorial here (this one is a good primer, though). You will find loads of encouragement and a few tips.

Tips for Ruffle Cake Success

Use a turntable. You want to be able to spin the cake with one hand and pipe the icing with the other.

Don't skip the crumb coat!

Spend some time getting the icing consistency just right. It should be stiff enough so the ruffles stand out, but soft enough so they don't crack. This is where a test run (or a few practice ruffles) can really help.

Choose the right piping tip. I landed on a Wilton #104 and kept the fat end closest to the cake.

Start at the bottom and work your way up. Then you get a nice ruffly center!

Optional: Pump some Mariah Carey in the background. Preferably off the Daydream album.

That's it! Trust me, if I can tackle a ruffle cake, you can too. I think these ruffles are definitely Emily's style. And I hear she's into smash cakes instead of Snapchat. I just can't keep up.

images: ^©J. Bennett Kincaid Photography for wanted.

Most Wanted

noreply@blogger.com (Megean) — Sat, 31 May 2014 00:35:00 +0000

I'm reading B.J. Novak's book of short stories, One More Thing. It's the perfect read for the build-up to summer.

I picked up the ingredients to try this carrot salad this weekend. I'm a sucker for tahini right now.

If this goat doesn't make you smile there's no help for you.

Would you wear a swim dress? This one looks so comfortable.

I have a full weekend ahead with plans to clean out my gutters (any tips?), hit up the flea market and cheer on the local minor league baseball team. What are you up to?

images: Megean

Most Wanted

noreply@blogger.com (Megean) — Fri, 16 May 2014 17:37:00 +0000

I'm headed to a bachelorette getaway this weekend for a lovely gal-pal. She once inspired the most magnificent hey girl fireman calendar. It was a beauty. Alas, her firemen days are over. More for me, I guess.

Are you up on the latest Net Neutrality news? This primer helped me out.

The Arrow finale on Wednesday was intense. I'm pumped to see that John Barrowman is back as a series regular next year.

Did you celebrate National Chocolate Chip Cookie Day yesterday? These cookie packaging ideas are great.

Have an awesome weekend!

images: hey girl by moi, but I can't remember where the picture credit. please contact me with credit information if you have it.

Most Wanted

noreply@blogger.com (Megean) — Fri, 09 May 2014 17:37:00 +0000

This week has been really exciting because of the television upfronts, where each network announces which shows will air next season (mostly for the benefit of advertisers). If you've spoken to me for more than 20 minutes, I've probably mentioned a CW show (or two) so I was very pleased to hear that Beauty and the Beast and Hart of Dixie will be returning next year. Yep, I'm that girl.

Have you seen Jordan's pantry renovation? If I had those brackets I'd put up shelves in every room in my house.

Speaking of television, did you catch the Mindy Project finale? This made me wonder...

You'd be really fancy with one of these wood business card holders.

Have a most excellent weekend!

images: fanpop

Start a Vegetable Garden from Seeds

noreply@blogger.com (Megean) — Wed, 07 May 2014 12:30:00 +0000

I'm a little late to the game, but I started the seeds for my raised beds last weekend. I used this method to start my seeds last year, and if I can do it, anyone can! But seriously, go back in time and start your seeds like a month ago.

Fair warning, the name of the game here is use what you got. This is not one of those fancy blog posts where everything's styled to perfection and darling seedlings are sprouting out of pastel egg shells (wouldn't that be cute?). I use toilet paper tubes to start my seeds. Paper towel rolls will work too, but they tend to fall apart. Cut the tube in half and pack in some potting soil or compost. Leave a bit of room at the top to pop in your seeds.

I ordered seeds from Burpee because I was looking for San Marzano tomatoes, but you can find a good variety at most garden centers and home improvement stores. Read the back of the seed packet for information about how many seeds you should sow together, and how deep they need to be. Pop in your seeds and top with more soil. I find that using a spray bottle to water helps at this stage, especially since my other watering can is a solo cup (fancy, see?).

Once your seedlings have sprouted and are hardy enough to plant outside, you can just pop in the whole whole tube. The cardboard will compost in your garden.

I planted San Marzano tomatoes, yellow squash, cucumbers, two types of basil and lavender. The basil and lavender will stay in pots on my sun porch for the time being. Since lavender is so elegant I added labels to the terra cotta pots using a chalk marker. This is a blog after all.

How about you - are you growing anything this summer?

images: Megean

Most Wanted

noreply@blogger.com (Megean) — Fri, 25 Apr 2014 11:47:00 +0000

These dip dye tags would be perfect for my flea market booth.

Have you seen this darling girl on Vine? I'd be pleased to have an ounce of her charisma.

Seems like I'm always trying to break a bad habit. Maybe I'm going about it all wrong.

This may be the greatest invention known to man. Time to take my dunking game to the next level.

Are you washing your face correctly? (I'm not).

I'm going to do some gardening this weekend. Time to get those seeds in some soil! Have a most excellent weekend!

images: moglea

Ice Cream Sundae in a Box

noreply@blogger.com (Megean) — Thu, 24 Apr 2014 15:04:00 +0000

I don't know about you, but I'm not the greatest gift-giver. I never remember to pick things up when I see something my loved ones would like, and I'm forever stumped when the gift-giving occasion rolls around. This Sundae in a Box is a perfect go-to if you're struck with gift-giver's block. It's the perfect DIY, ships easily and is sure to please.

I packaged this version up for my cousin's birthday. These sundae ingredients are a good start, but get creative! As an ice cream connoisseur I can assure you, toppings options are endless. Be sure to include cute accoutrements like ice cream cups, spoons, striped paper straws (a must for any party), and party hats.

Pack everything in a cute box with tissue and instructions and you're in business.

sundae in a box

Ramekins

Spoons

Cherries

Hot Fudge Sauce

Sprinkles

Ice Cream Cones

Have you given any great gifts lately? I'm always looking for ideas!

images: Megean

Most Wanted

noreply@blogger.com (Megean) — Fri, 18 Apr 2014 12:13:00 +0000

Phew. Has this week been crazy for everyone? It's been a bit hectic, so I'm looking forward to a relaxing weekend. At any rate, here's what caught my eye this week.

I'm usually a fan of crisp white bathrooms, but I dig the black tile in this hotel.

Have you heard the big news on Parks and Rec? So excited! Also, this made my day.

I'm reading this book and the movie trailer just came out. Yes, I read far too many YA novels.

Do you watch The Newsroom? This parody, The Foodroom, cracked me up.

Prints of this illustrated landscape alphabet would be great for framing. Have a great weekend!

images: via Habitually Chic

Dr. Danny Castellano is a Tease

noreply@blogger.com (Megean) — Tue, 15 Apr 2014 12:16:00 +0000

Spoiler alert: I'm getting ready to talk about The Mindy Project. So, if you're not caught up maybe run and watch it, 'kay?

Mindy is my spirit animal. (I have a few, so don't judge me if I say it's Leslie Knope later, deal?) We're just two gals, trying to make it in this unfair world where our complicated schemes backfire and people refuse to recognize us as the delicate flowers that we are.

Like Mindy, I love Dr. Danny Castellano. From the moment he taught us what it means to be a man (gets into fistfights at a Springsteen show), I was smitten. He lured me in with his grumpy old man attitude, and won me over with his massively sweet gestures (Secret Santa dance routine anyone?) No one was more elated than me to see those two love birds smoochin' on an airplane. No one.

But not two episodes later we're sobbing into our cronuts because those two couldn't make it work. You can't just read us Bridget Jones and split the very next week, Danny. We're delicate flowers! If you ask me, Danny didn't try hard enough. He jumped straight to the classic "I don't want to ruin our friendship" speech. Oh brother.

Despite his lack of effort and total disregard for our sensitive spirits, I'm still rooting for Dr. C. I can't help it. After all, he introduced me to the Danny Castellano Method for weight training. I've lost three pounds pretending to lift rubble off of Michael Fassbender in the zombie apocalypse.

What about you? Do you think his sensitive side will win out and he'll stop leading us on? Let's dance it out and we'll get through this confusing time together.

images: zap2it, FOX

Most Wanted

noreply@blogger.com (Megean) — Fri, 11 Apr 2014 13:25:00 +0000

I saw Captain America: The Winter Soldier last weekend and loved it. Full of action and twists and the very handsome Chris Evans. You should see it.

I've been looking for some great summer wedges, but I'm picky and my feet are a weird size, so no luck. Maybe these or these will do?

Tina Fey and Amy Poehler are going to play sisters in an upcoming movie. My heart is filled with joy.

I'm looking forward to seeing Conor Oberst this summer, and I've been humming this song for days.

Sriracha is one of my favorite condiments, but I'm not sure it's worth "streaming eyes."

What are you up to this weekend? I'm headed to Alabama on a road trip with my family and to see the nation's oldest coon dog cemetery.

Have a great weekend!

images: via moviecricket.com

New look for the ol' blog

noreply@blogger.com (Megean) — Fri, 11 Apr 2014 00:34:00 +0000

Wanted's back, alright! (please, sing along.) It's been over a year since our last chat here, can you believe it? Catching up is long, long overdue. Plus, the ol' blog is sporting a new look for the occasion! Spring seems like as good a time as any to freshen up and introduce a few new features.

The best part of being away for a whole year is that I've got quite the stock of stories and projects to share. Like the time I turned 30. Or the time I turned my hoarder's room into a functional bedroom. Spoiler alert, there was a massive purge. Exciting stuff.

I'll be back tomorrow with this week's Most Wanted. Odds are very good there will be a pic of Captain America.

Oh, and I'm on Instagram now! Follow me for window shopping, awkward selfies, and many many cat photos.

images: Megean

Wanted DIY: Painted Dresser to Buffet

noreply@blogger.com (Megean) — Wed, 13 Mar 2013 01:57:00 +0000

A few months ago my parents were upgrading their bedroom furniture and I adopted this dilapidated dresser. It sat, waiting for its destiny in my ~~hoarder's room~~ guest room. Suddenly, I found myself in need of some extra storage in the kitchen and the junky dresser found its purpose in life. Oh yeah, I forgot to take a before picture, so you'll just have to deduce the ugly from this one.

There are tons of great furniture painting tutorials out there, so I'll just tell you, in brief, my method for this particular project. I took out all the drawers and sanded the whole piece lightly by hand. I used wood filler to make some minor repairs and fill in some scratches and then sanded again. Then I primed. I used a small foam roller and a 2-inch brush to tackle the details. Oh, and I didn't take a picture of the priming either. You'll have to imagine that too.

Many brands of paint offer a paint/primer combo, but I thought I would play it safe and I'm glad I did. It still took several coats of paint to get a nice finish.

The kitchen is pretty dark (with all that wood paneling - a project for another day), so I wanted something bright and cheery. I chose Safflower by Olympic. It's a rich coral, but in some light takes on a neon hue that makes me feel pretty trendy. I love it.

There you have it! A painted dresser turned bright buffet. The storage is great - odds and ends, kitchen linens, canning jars and cookie cutters all found a home.

Have you tackled any painting projects lately?

Images: Megean

Most Wanted: Chicken Coop Roundup

noreply@blogger.com (Megean) — Fri, 08 Mar 2013 04:35:00 +0000

I've been talking for a few years about raising chickens. I've done a lot of research, I've talked to chicken owners, and I've plotted where I want to house them. Most importantly, I've given quite a bit of thought to the adorable chicken coop I will have. Check out these inspiration photos.

Who knows, maybe I'll stop talking and start building. This could be the year!

Have an amazing weekend!

PS - follow me on Pinterest for chicken coop inspiration and so. much. more.

Images: via Pinterest, backyardchickens.com, Studio G

Most Wanted

noreply@blogger.com (Megean) — Sat, 02 Mar 2013 18:34:00 +0000

I hope that your weekend is going along swimmingly. It is cold and dreary outside and I've started a new book so my day will be sent cuddled up with my kitten.

They're making the book I'm reading (yes, it's a young adult fantasy novel, what of it?) into a movie:

I've got this sesame chicken in my crock pot right now. It smells delicious.

I am totally on the Jennifer Lawrence train. Are you?

While it was snowing this week I spent a good hour planning my non-existent garden. I'm thinking these and these.

Have a cozy weekend!

xo
Megean

Wanted: Paperchase at Target

noreply@blogger.com (Megean) — Wed, 27 Feb 2013 01:33:00 +0000

Once upon a time I studied abroad in London. It was the best and quite often I think I could have done more to make the most of it. The one thing I did make the most of? Shopping. I was great at it. I fell in love with the magical, giant Paperchase store on Tottenham Court Rd. I was lost in the stationery, the supplies, endless notebooks and colorful patterns. I am still rationing adorable polka dot cards from that visit (eight years ago).

Each year since, I purchased a Paperchase diary (read: agenda) to manage my time and projects. I loved picking out the design that would shape my year. That is, until Borders closed and Paperchase was scarcely seen in the US.

Luckily, Target came to the rescue and announced they would be carrying Paperchase products starting last November. Why oh why, then, did it take until last week for me to spot them in my local store? I squealed when I saw it, even if the pickings were slim. Here's hoping they add more!

What do you think? Will you be stocking up on Paperchase goods while they last?

Images: Megean

Most Wanted

noreply@blogger.com (Megean) — Fri, 22 Feb 2013 13:16:00 +0000

I can't believe it is already Friday again. February just goes by so quickly. Here are a few things that caught my lustful eye this week.

Did you see the most adorable television wedding ever last night? If not, you really missed out. Ben and Leslie may be my favorite TV couple. Those kids...

These gold business cards spotted on Design Work Life are simply the best. All of the designs work together, though some are more practical than others.

Remember the Maker's Mark fiasco I mentioned last week? Well, there's a pretty significant update.

Have a great weekend!

xo M

Images: EW

Wanted: Handsome Young Men in Tailored Suits

noreply@blogger.com (Megean) — Fri, 22 Feb 2013 00:50:00 +0000

Do you watch Suits? I love it. I've talked about it before, and I still can't get enough. This is one smart show: cleverly written, well-delivered, and surprisingly full of emotion. Oh, and there are handsome young men in tailored suits - a true delight.

This season wraps up tonight. The legal stories are as intense as ever, but the storyline I've enjoyed most is seeing Mike and Rachel warm back up to each other while he supports her efforts to get into Harvard. Get it, girl! Oh, and Donna being sassy as ever.

Will you be watching Harvey and Mike crush it tonight?

Images: Fanpop, Suits Primer

Wanted: Presidents Day Spread

noreply@blogger.com (Megean) — Mon, 18 Feb 2013 12:52:00 +0000

Today I am pleased to share my signature Presidents Day treat with you. It has all of the great makings of any presidential snack: cream cheese, a hint of citrus, tart cranberries and pecans. I first made this delicious concoction at a Presidents Day fete my roommates and I threw in college (any excuse for a party, right?). I've had many requests for it ever since. It is lovingly referred to as Presidents Day Spread, or P-Day Spread if your mouth is full.

Dig in!

Presidents Day Spread
(adapted from the back of a Town House cracker box, circa 2006)

1 block of cream cheese, softened
¹⁄₈ cup of frozen orange juice concentrate
¹⁄₄ cup dried cranberries, chopped
¹⁄₄ cup pecans, chopped

Mix together the softened cream cheese and frozen orange juice concentrated. Stir in the cranberries and pecans. Refrigerate several hours before serving. Serve with crackers, bagel chips, or french bread. Leftovers are delicious on bagels or toast the next morning.

Happy Presidents Day!

images: Megean

Most Wanted

noreply@blogger.com (Megean) — Sat, 16 Feb 2013 16:03:00 +0000

Happy Weekend! I hope that you have fond memories of the week we're leaving behind, and great adventures ahead of you.

This week I've been jamming to the Warm Bodies soundtrack on Spotify. Are you a Spotify fan?
PS - I kind of dug the movie.

An interesting look at solitude on social media via Nubby Twiglet

Did you hear that Makers Mark is going to water down its bourbon to meet high demand? I'd be wary, bourbon lovers and brand loyalists are a tough crowd.

I had a great time sifting through these old photos of sweethearts on Vintage Loves, via A Cup of Jo.

Did you see the sneak peek at the new Kate Spade Saturday collection? What do you think?

Have a super weekend!

images: via Rolling Stone

Wanted: Last-Minute Valentines

noreply@blogger.com (Megean) — Tue, 12 Feb 2013 02:38:00 +0000

Valentine's Day is right around the corner, are you ready? If you need to whip up some last-minute valentines, try these! Just grab some buttons, cardstock, and crayons (if you're into being extra cutesy, which clearly I am).

These are perfect for someone special, your mom, your coworker, your postman, your bank-teller boyfriend (what, you don't have one of those?).

I love using literal interpretations of lovey-dovey sayings on my valentines. Check out more examples here and here.

Are you doing anything special for your valentine(s) this year?

Images: Megean

Wanted: A Very Merry Holiday

noreply@blogger.com (Megean) — Mon, 24 Dec 2012 19:26:00 +0000

I hope that your week is filled with peace and joy and wish for you all the merriness I can muster.

x
Megean

Images: Megean

Most Wanted

noreply@blogger.com (Megean) — Sat, 18 Aug 2012 03:32:00 +0000

I'm dying to paint my front door pink. I think my life would be infinitely better with a pink door. A pink door says, "this girl is serious about her happiness and all who enter will be greeted with whimsy and delight." Yes, a pink door is in order.

You can see more awesome pink doors on my Pinterest boards.

What are you up to this weekend? I'm looking forward to indulging in mimosas and trying these veggie lasagna cupcakes. Make it an awesome one!

images: via Live Creating Yourself, via Pinterest, PARK & CUBE via {this is glamorous}, via Pinterest

Wanted: Third Blogiversary

noreply@blogger.com (Megean) — Fri, 17 Aug 2012 01:45:00 +0000

Three years ago today I started a blog. For my 100th post I took a look back at my top five posts, so for this very special occasion I thought it would be fun to see what people are searching for most when they land here on WANTED. What I've found might surprise you.

Without further ado, the most searched for terms on WANTED:

Quite a while ago, I helped my friend Meg throw a Stock the Bar Party for her darling sister and now brother-in-law. The signature drinks, spiced almond favors, and cute cobblers in jars were a huge hit!

First mentioned here, "Dexter Henley" pleases me to no end when it shows up in the top searches. Thank you, internet, for supporting this gorgeous (though ominous) apparel. Still, the hardest working shirt in the biz.

One of my greatest DIY triumphs, the Capiz Chandelier in my bedroom is still rocking. The stringing was tedious, but totally worth it. Check out the tutorial if you'd like to attempt one of your very own.

Thanks for reading! Let's hope that the coming year brings even more support for the often-overlooked henley.

images: Megean, TVGuide

Wanted: A Fun. Musical Interlude

noreply@blogger.com (Megean) — Wed, 15 Aug 2012 02:57:00 +0000

When things get crazy at work I often pop on my headphones to keep out unnecessary distractions and go into super-project mode. I am very susceptible to my surroundings, so I have to find just the right music to keep me motivated and focused, but not sleepy or wired-up. Lately the Fun. station on Pandora has been just the thing. Upbeat, it keeps the creative juices and positivity flowing. Now, to convince my coworkers that impromptu sing-alongs are good for their productivity.

What have you been listening too? I'd love some new recommendations!

PS - This song has crossed my path a few fortuitous times this week, give it a listen!

images: YouTube