the simple things

Christmas and a DIY Baby Doll Highchair.

2011-12-30T14:09:00.001-05:00

We had an awesome Christmas...My husband and I loved playing the role of Santa andwatching the smile on our little girls face as she came downthe steps on Christmas morning. This year, shot 'got' the idea of Santa.
All of the hard work to prepare for the most perfect Christmas eve and day, certainly paid off. Her smile was glued to her face!
Our holiday was filled with: Baking, shopping , wrapping, dancing,eating, sleeping, movie watching, playing, and enjoying each others company.
I was exhausted after all was said and done.Until next year, Christmas.
I wanted to share my favorite gift that Santa left for our daughter.We gave Lyla a Bitty Baby (American Girl) this year.It's just adorable, Lyla is in love.
I bought the diaper bag and some accessories to go along with the doll,We are splurging on the crib set for her birthday.
Two months ago when I was in an antique store downtown, I saw an old highchair for a doll.It was being sold for $15.oo. I thought it would be perfect for the Bitty Baby Lyla was going to receive. I know those of you who really like vintage, would have left the chair as is, but I wanted to freshen it up a bit. My husband and I sanded it down, threw on a fresh coat of white paint, and I embellished it with pink pom-pom trim! I think it's adorable.

I'm going to catch up on some of my favorite blogs this weekend! I also plan to do some sewing, organizing, and relaxing!
I hope everyone had a very merry Christmas, Happy New Year to all!
Linking up with:I Heart Organizing, Young & RestlessA Bowl Full of Lemons, Southern LovelyYesterday on Tuesday, Rub Some Dirt On It, I Heart NaptimeMe & My Boys, A Little Tipsy, Whipperberry

My Christmas List.

2011-12-10T15:04:00.001-05:00

I've been a good girl this year....
Here is a glimpse at what I would love to find under my tree:
I currently use a Canon 7D. I LOVE IT!!!The only problem is, the size. It's pretty big. There have been a few times when I would have liked to whip out a little camera and take a quick pic. With my 7D, that's just not possible.I did some research and fell in love with the Canon power-shot, Elph 500.Years ago I had the original Elph. It took great pics. I miss it. I would love the new one.

{source}

But of course, my Canon 7D will still be my most used camera,

and I would love to have a cute strap for it!

{source}

In Anthropologie I have been eyeing this vase up for a while.

I would love to put it in my kitchen....

{source}

along side some of these.

{source}

In my dining room, I try to keep fresh flowers as my center piece.During the colder months, I'm not so good about it.I found these Amaryllis at Crate and Barrel and I think they are so pretty (and I love the fact that I won't have to change the water in the vase, ever).

{source}

Speaking of pretty... anything from Sephora puts a smile on my face!

{source}

What's on your Christmas List?

Linking up with:

Tots & Me, 3Ps Mama,

Blogging Tutorial. How to Stack and Center Buttons.

2011-12-05T08:33:00.001-05:00

Dondi is here today to teach us how to make our blogs

look nice and pretty!

Hi, friends!Dondi here from Just My Type Designs. I'm here today to teach you how to stack and center your blog buttons and about the importance of using a web host for you graphics and pictures.

Back in the day (like a few months ago) I had no idea that you had to upload all your pictures to a web host like Photobucket in order to do what you really wanted with them. Blogger provides great tools and all...But sometimes you just gotta work with the html.

You can do A LOT more with your photos and graphics if you'll just upload them to Photobucket. It's FREE!

www.photobucket.com

Once you create an account, upload your first picture. You will then see a handy little box like this:

{click on the "HTML code" and it will instantly copy the code for you}

This is how you'll get the html for all of your pictures/graphics!

One of the biggest mysteries to me was just HOW people were putting their graphics or blog ads so darn close together on their sidebars! Guess what? You have to use the photo's html from a host site (like photobucket) in order to do that! You can't do this by simply uploading your stuff in the "picture" gadget on Blogger...

So now that you've uploaded several pictures to Photobucket, you can really see how this works...copy EACH html and paste it into "Microsoft Word" or notepad to get it out of the way... Now go over to your blog "Design" or "Layout" page (depending on what version of Blogger you're using) and add an "HTML/JAVA SCRIPT" gadget to your side bar.

{Select to add the HTML/Java Script gadget}

{Now copy and paste your codes in the gadget}

It doesn't matter how close the codes are together...Then "save" and "preview". They should be stacked on top of each other!

{An example of stacked blog ads}

The wonderful thing about doing it this way is that you only use ONE gadget instead of one gadget for every picture you upload. That can get confusing and make your "Layout" page a disaster. By combining all the html into one gadget it keeps things neat and organized.

Now that you know how to stack em' you gotta know how to CENTER em'.

{There's nothing more attractive then a blog with neat and tidy buttons!}

So here's some code for a blog button that's not centered:

And here's code for one that is:

See the difference? Yep, you have to add the html that's highlighted in yellow to each end of your code. And that's how you center each button! After you write the code enough times you'll have it memorized. =)

{So if someone gives you their blog button code and it's not centered, you know how to fix it!}

Now you can neatly center and stack all of your blog ads and graphics, making your blog look more organized and polished! =)

♥♥♥

I hope this little tutorial helped you! If you have an questions don't hesitate to ask!

Thanks!

* * * *

Thanks for sharing Dondi!

And just so you know.... Dondi is the graphic designer behind The Simple Things.

Have an awesome Monday!

Me time. SHMEE time.

2011-12-03T11:20:00.001-05:00

My daughter is having a 'grandparents' weekend.She left yesterday afternoon for a 3 hour drive to the beach.She is going to the Festival of Lights tonight.She will be home tomorrow afternoon.I miss her.
It's funny how Moms have moments where we just wish we had some"ME TIME."Time to clean alone, time to craft alone, time to shower alone.But when that time comes, it just doesn't feel right.Somethings missing.
That's how I am feeling today.
Last night my husband and I went out for a great dinner and I enjoyed nearly a whole bottle of sangria. Great date night.
Today my husband has to work.
I have the house to myself... it feels empty. I'm moving slow.
I spent most of the morning catching up on blogs. I am going to get moving now. I made a list. I hope to get a lot scratched off.
- ~~laundry~~- finish painting the vintage school desk- ~~gift wrapping~~- start sewing friends baby quilt- ~~order material for office curtains~~- order Christmas cards
Wish me luck... I'm missing my little helper.

Our weekend and a DIY.

2011-11-26T19:52:00.001-05:00

I am just now getting back to 'normal' after a nice, long,
holiday weekend!

Our holiday and weekend included:
- A lot of yummy food.
- Napping.
- Watching football (watching us win, I should say).
- Baking
(I made Betty Crocker Gluten Free chocolate chip cookies.
They are really good. I did add extra chocolate chips).
- Shopping.
- A trip to the Harbor and Aquarium.
- Decorating for Christmas.
- And a Christmas music dance party.
- Gift wrapping.
- Projects around the house, and a quick diy!

My daughter wears headbands nearly every day. Yes, I'm a lucky Momma
who has a little girl who never rips them off- other moms remind me often.

Most of her headbands have big flowers on them. They are super cute, but some of them are more for Spring and Summer fashion. I wanted to make something for her with a little Fall/Winter feel. So, I went with the felt bow. I made a bunch. I had all of the supplies at home, but each little bow can be made for about 10 cents (and that's probably pushing it)!
I made mine while watching an episode of Parenthood. So easy.

Supplies:
Felt
Alligator Clip
Hot Glue Gun and Glue

Step 1:
Cut felt into rectangles. I made my bows/rectangles, 3x4 inches.
Also cut a strip for the center of the bow.

Step 2:

Pinch the center of the rectangle, to gather/raise the felt.

Step 3:

Once you have the center raised, pull both long sides of the rectangle to the center.

Use a small amount of hot glue to 'pinch' the felt together.

Hold in place for 30 seconds, let dry.

Step 4:

Flip your bow over (although, it really doesn't matter which end is up).

I just liked the look from this side a little more.

Step 5:

Take a small strip of felt, and hot glue it around the center of the bow.

Leave a little extra felt to cover the alligator clip.

Step 6:

Hot glue the bow (and extra felt used from center of bow) to alligator clip.

Hold for 30 seconds to let dry.

Voila!

Simple. Adorable.

I hope everyone had a great weekend!

Linking up with:
The Shabby Creek Cottage
A Bowl Full of Lemons, Sugar and Dots
A Little Tipsy, Southern Lovely, Eisy Morgan, Rub Some Dirt on It
Young & Restless, Whipperberry, I Heart Naptime, The Grant Life, Yesterday on Tuesday

Happy Thanksgiving.

2011-11-23T15:05:00.001-05:00

This year I am thankful forthe obvious.A warm house, yummy food, a providing husband,and an amazing little girl.
This year I am going to remind myself that there are many others without-the obvious.
I'm blessed.
Happy Thanksgiving. Enjoy spending time with your loved ones.

And the Winners Are...

2011-11-21T09:54:00.001-05:00

Thank you to everyone who entered theHoliday Giveaway last week! And a special thanks to the Lovely ladies who are sharing very special gifts with us from their adorable shops!
I must admit, hosting a giveaway week on my blog,was a little harder than I had expected. I give a lot of credit to those whohold giveaways frequently, blog daily, and take on blogging as a career.It's no easy task, you're awesome.
Now, for the winners...
Domestic Charm: Kendra @Our Little AlmanacJessica N Designs: Stephanie @The Honey PotShiny Metals: Melanie @Keeping Up with the Cantelmo'sDondaLee's: Lauren Alyse @Brown Sugar BrunetteSugar and Spice Accessories: The Biggs Family @The Biggs FamilyE. Marie Creations: Jamie @Snow in DecemberA.R. Creations: Christina @The Olive TreeOlive Tree: Chelsea @Sunny with a Chance of Sprinkles
Congratulations!Send me an e-mail so we can hook you up!

The Simple Things.

2011-11-20T11:15:00.001-05:00

Earlier this week, a friend of mine handed down a Radio Flyer tricycle to Lyla.
The tricycle is still in great condition. I gave it a good scrub down, and I just had to spice it up, a little.
So, I spent 5 minutes cutting some old scraps of fabric into1x6 inch strips, and tied them around the handlebars.There are two small holes on each end of the 'basket' on the back.So, I tied some of the fabric strips I cut onto a long ribbon, and strung it through the tiny holes. I think it added just a little, extra, cuteness... to a perfect hand-me-down bike.
Regardless, if I had washed it and added fabric or not,it's put a big smile on my little one's face this week.
Before:

After:

The simplicity of hand me downs; A little girls old bike, is now new to my little girl, and she couldn't be happier!

Also linking up with:I Heart Naptime
* * *
Today is the last day to enter all of the giveaways from this week! You have until 5pm (eastern).Giveaway winners will be announced Tomorrow!!
The giveaway items make perfect Christmas gifts, help with gift wrapping, or, you could just treat yourself to something special!
Hang around (scroll down, and also click on 'older post'), and check them out!Good luck to all!

Olive Tree Giveaway.

2011-11-17T21:56:00.001-05:00

So, this is the last giveaway of the week,but you still have until Sunday to enter all of the holiday giveaways!
We are ending the week with
The Olive Tree
Christina from The Olive Tree Boutique opened her Etsy shop when her first daughter was born, as a way to stay creative, and make a little money in the process.This lead to her blogging, which she loves! Blogging helps her keep all her thoughts and ideas in one place (and I love her blog)!
Today The Olive Tree is giving away 3 ponytail holders!(pictured below, black/white and pink/orange)
I just love these because, I wear a ponytail almost every single day....boring, I know.But... these cute ponytail holders are a great (and simple) way to dress up an ordinary hairstyle!

The Olive Tree has an adorable variety of hair accessories and wipe cases!

These are some of my favorite items from her shop...

(All entrants must first follow The Simple Things.

You can do so using the gfc tool on the right, thanks!)

To Enter:

1. Follow The Olive Tree BLOG.

2. Visit The Olive Tree Boutique and leave a comment here,

telling me what your favorite item is!

3. Blog about this giveaway... there is a 'holiday giveaway' button on my sidebar

you can grab and share!

Good Luck and TGIF!

(Don't forget to check out the rest of the giveaways from this week)

Bakers Twine Giveaway.

2011-11-17T14:31:00.001-05:00

This season, a lot of my gifts are going to be wrapped up pretty withBakers Twine (and doilies, lace and pretty stamps)!One of my 'go to' Etsy shops for twine is
AR Creations
Annies shop is filled with Bakers Twine, chipboard cutouts, doilies and cupcake wrappers!
Today, Annie is giving away 250 yards of twine!You will get 50 yards of five different colors.(Paris Rose, Kraft Brown, Banana Yellow, Forest Green, Pumpkin Orange)

(All entrants must first follow The Simple Things)

To Enter:

1. Visit Annies shop and {heart} an item you like.

2. Favorite Annies shop.

Simple as that! Good luck to all!

E. Marie Creations Giveaway.

2011-11-17T08:57:00.001-05:00

I hope everyone has been enjoying Giveaway week!

Todays giveaway is brought to you by,

E. Marie Creations.

E. Marie Creations is a Resin filled Etsy Shop, ran by Samantha. She also has a great blog,

Simple Delights... you should check it out!

Meet Samantha:

I've been running my Etsy shop for about 2 years and absolutely love what I do! I have enjoyed crafting ever since I was little, and being able to actually make and sell my creations is great! Knowing that others find joy out of my creations is wonderful as well. It is what makes selling online so rewarding!

In my shop you will find a wide selection of polymer clay and resin cabochon jewelry, charms, Christmas ornaments and more. My items appeal to girls and women of all ages, and I am happy to be able to offer great products in a price range that is affordable to all.

Today E. Marie Creations is giving away Earrings of your Choice (valued under $12.)

I would pick out these for myself:

And these for the little one!

The sweet little items in her shop would make perfect gifts

and fun stocking stuffers this holiday season!

(All entrants must first follow The Simple Things,

you can do so on the right side of my blog, via the gfc tool, thanks!)

To Enter:

1. Visit E. Marie Creations then come back and leave a comment,

telling me what item you would give as a gift this holiday season.

2. Follow Simple Delights.

* * *

You can still enter these great giveaways:

Sugar and Spice Accessories

Sugar and Spice Giveaway.

2011-11-16T10:50:00.001-05:00

This ones for the GIRLS...the little girls!Sonya from Sugar and Spice Accessories will be giving away a HOLIDAY TUTU!

Sonya is a wife, and mother of 2 little girls. She started her venture in making hair accessories and tutus over a year ago when she found the joy in making them for her daughters. She has a taste for fashion and fun color combinations.Sugar and Spice accessories specializes in making tutus (both custom and ready to ship), hair accessories and she recently started adding tutu valances to her collection! What a fun idea.
Her store inventory is constantly updated to reflect the current season, and she is always adding new items.
Sugar and Spice Accessories Christmas Tutu is full, and pretty in shades of red and green.The Tutu is made with a bright, red ribbon waistband which allows you to tighten or loosen the waist to ensure more wear time.
The tutu is perfect for your child's Christmas photo shoot or Holiday gathering. And if you don't have a daughter, I'm sure there's a sweet little girl in your life, who would look adorable in it!
All entrants must first follow The Simple Things. You can do so on the right, via the GFC tool. Thanks so much.Giveaway will be open until Sunday night, November 20th.
To Enter:1. Visit the Sugar and Spice SHOP , come back and leave a comment telling me what your favorite item is!2. "Like" Sugar and Spice Accessories on facebook.
The Winner of the Tutu will be able to choose from the following sizes: 0-3 months up to 6T.

* * *
Don't forget to check out these giveaways:
Domestic Charm
Jessica N Designs
Shiny Metals
DondaLee's

DondaLee's Giveaway.

2011-11-15T19:44:00.001-05:00

If you follow my blog, you have heard about Dondi!

She is the designer of my cute little blog, and a blogger bestie of mine.
If your new here, let me introduce you...

Howdy! My name is Dondi and I’m the designer behind "DondaLee's". I’m fairly new to the handmade business world and still learning and growing every day. I make an assortment of different things and find it impossible to just stick with one thing! In my shop you can find child and adult accessories, home décor, paper goods and more. I love color and all that’s shabby chic and whimsical! On my blog I share fun and inspirational pictures, tutorials and giveaways. I hope it’s a place that’s inspiring, encouraging and fun! Nice to meet y’all!
Today, Dondi is giving away12 Teal Glitter Snowflake/Ball Jar Hand Stamped Gift Tags!Perfect for Holiday wrapping!

(All Entrants must first follow The Simple Things)Giveaway ends Sunday (night), November 20th.
To Enter:1. Visit Dondi's SHOP and leave a comment here, telling me what your favorite item is!
2. Share my "holiday giveaway button" on your blog! You can find it on my sidebar. It's made by Dondi. She recently opened Just My Type Designs and creates web pages and gadgets like my button, at awesome prices. Check it out!
3. Follow Dondalee's.
Good Luck to everyone!
* * *Don't forget to check out these giveaways:
Domestic CharmJessica N DesignsShiny Metals

Shiny Metals Giveaway.

2011-11-15T09:46:00.001-05:00

Well, today is just a Hand Stamped Day!Our second giveaway of the day is from,Shiny Metals.Christiane has an Etsy Shop FULL of hand stamped Jewelry.There is something for everyone...Moms, daughters, grandmothers,nurses, animal lovers, athletes, and more.Check out her variety, you are sure to find a perfect gift.
Today Shiny Metals is letting you personalize this sweet necklace:

(All entrants must first follow The Simple Things)

Giveaway ends on SUNDAY, Nov. 2oth 5pm.

To Enter:

1. Visit Shiny Metals and leave a comment here,

telling me what item you would give as a gift.

2. 'Favorite' the Shiny Metals Shop.

3. Share my Holiday Giveaway 'button' on your blog.

(You can grab it off my sidebar).

It's made by my girl, Dondi. and her giveaway is coming up tomorrow!

That's 3 ways to enter! Good luck.

* * *

Don't forget to check out todays other hand stamped giveaway from Jessica N Designs!

Click HERE to enter.

Jessica N Designs Giveaway.

2011-11-15T08:46:00.001-05:00

Today Jessica, from Jessica N Designs is giving away

a set of 3, Hand Stamped, Holiday Spoons!

I just love these!

Now, let's meet Jessica:

Jessica is a Wife, Mommy, Romantic, Dreamer, Lover of Jesus, her family, life, vintage, country music, coffee, books, lip gloss, the beach and movie nights with her hubby.

She likes to share her designs, her love for pretty things, handmade, and all the inspiration she gathers... on her BLOG.

If you don't already read her blog, check it out... you will love it and be inspired.

In her SHOP, she gives new life to vintage silverware.

Jessica creates custom keepsakes for weddings, your home and your garden!

She also creates hand stamped, unique and meaningful jewelry for you to treasure.

These are some of my favorite. I think they would make perfect gifts.

I would wrap the Coffee spoons up with a Starbucks gift card,

and give the wedding forks as a unique wedding shower gift!

(All entrants must first follow The Simple Things, via the GFC tool on the right)

Giveaway ends on Sunday (night) November 20th.

To Enter:

1. Follow Jessica N Designs blog.

2. 'Favorite' her shop.

3. Follow her on facebook.

That's 3 ways to enter to win!

Don't forget to enter yesterdays giveaway from Domestic Charm,

and come back later today, for another giveaway!

Good luck!

Domestic Charm Giveaway.

2011-11-14T09:04:00.001-05:00

Let's let the week of fun, little, holiday giveaways begin!Todays giveaway is brought to you by Katelyn at Domestic Charm.
Katelyn is a wife and mom of two little boys. She is always on the look out for new and fun kids crafts. In her free time she enjoys being creative in other areas, such as cooking, baking, cake decorating, party planning, organizing, diy projects, and the list goes on.She likes to share she what she is up to on her blog as well as be inspired by others.In her adorable Etsy shop, she sells party supplies and some of her projects.
Today she will be giving away 20 paper straws, along with50 yards to twine (you get to choose the color)!

These items are perfect for Holiday parties and gift wrapping (among other things)!

(Giveaway entrants must follow The Simple Things)

Giveaway ends on Sunday (night) November 20th.

To Enter:

Visit the Domestic Charm Shop, and come back and tell me what your favorite item is!

For an additional entry, you can follow the Domestic Charm Blog.

Good Luck!

Just My Type Designs

2011-11-09T09:45:00.001-05:00

I have been writing for this blog for about 2 months now, and I really enjoy it.I enjoy sharing my ideas and being inspired by so many talented women.
I have mentioned before, how surprised I was to 'meet' people through blogs.I have read blogs for years now. I never commented on others blogs, except to enter giveaways (wink).
I didn't know there was a connection between bloggers, so I was pleasantly surprised when I found out otherwise.
One of my new friends is Dondi. She was one of my first followers. She is just super sweet and HELPFUL. When I started my blog, the appearance was kinda, boring. Basic. Generic.
Dondi helped me 'spice it up' a bit, and I love how it's turned out!I made sure Dondi knew up front, that I am TERRIBLE with computers. She was understanding and when she had to talk 'techy' to me, she made things simple.I like Simple.
Dondi blogs over at Dondalees. She has a cute little Etsy Shop, where she sells accessories and adorable paper goods. Her newest venture is Just My Type Designs. Dondi offers a variety of blog design packages as well as Etsy shop designs to help make your blog look super cute!
I honestly told her the 'look' I was going for, and she created it. She will work with you, until she gets it right. We communicated through e-mail when she designed my blog, and her response time is remarkable. If you are thinking about changing up the look of your blog or Etsy shop, I highly recommend her!

Dondi is also participating in my Holiday Giveaway, taking place next week!

Yes, that's right, I am hosting my first giveaway... week!

There will be giveaways from Monday-Friday, and I'm super excited!

Rubber Duck Racing.

2011-11-06T07:52:00.000-05:00

One of our favorite Fall activities is going to a local farm.They have SO much to do there, but our favorite area is the Rubber Duck Racing.It's the most simple of all the activities offered, and we typically have it all to ourselves.
These two could race their ducks for hours.

I Hope everyone has a wonderful, simple, Sunday.

Big Girl Room.

2011-11-02T11:16:00.025-04:00

Over the summer, we slowly started saying goodbye to Lyla's nursery.She was in her toddler bed for a few months (and on the floor for a few days).When we got Lyla's full size bed put together, we knew it was time to start making her room a little more grown up!
I am happy with the transformation so far, but I need to spice up a few areas!
This is the view of her room when you walk in her door. Her bedding is from Target and the white ruffle throw is from Ikea.I bought the letters in her name from JoAnns and painted them Disney's, Sleeping Beauty Pink. I like them... however, I think I would like to add some more color above her bed.

To the left of her bed is her baptismal dress. I bought a shadow box frame from Ikea, and placed the dress inside. Easy peasy. This dress is important to us, I'll keep it right where it is.

This dresser use to be her "changing station."

Thank goodness that's not needed any more!

You can read the tutorial for the Earring Holder frame here.

I recently updated the pictures in her frames (again, from Ikea).

I am looking for a cute printable for the middle one!

If you have any suggestions... I would love to see them!

Across from her bed is her armoire/shelving unit.

I think the top is a little cluttered (I'm a, less is more person).

I love her letter "L." I don't have a tutorial for it.. but it was simple.

I bought the large letter at JoAnns, painted it pink, and used Modpodge to attach the fabric.

This is her bedroom door, directly across is the closet door.

I hung a few 'dress ups' around her mirror.

In the reflection, you can see her Morning & Night Time Routine Charts.

I recently bought these pretty hooks from Anthropologie.

Excited to hang them somewhere in her room!

This room will keep me busy in November!

I'm always open to suggestions... and I will keep you updated with the progress!

Linking up with:Southern Lovely, The Imperfect Housewife, RubSomeDirtOnIt , Addicted2DecoratingThe Idea Room, Yesterday on Tuesday, House of Epworths, The Shabby Chic Cottage, Somewhat SimpleJenni from the Blog, Young & Restless, Whipperberry, The Shabby Nest , Pocket Full of Pink , Sun Scholars, Redoux , For the Love of Cupcakes , The Gunny SackLolly Jane Boutique, Craft Envy, Along for the Ride, Funky Junky Interiors , I Heart Naptime, A Bowl Full of Lemons , Eisy Morgan , MamaMommyMom , The Kurtz Corner

Simple Things Sunday.

2011-10-30T22:32:00.002-04:00

I picked up this little wooden spider for .50 cents at a local craft store.I got out some paint and stickers... and my little one was in her glory.
She took her time painting her spider... went down for a nap, and when she woke up, she added her sparkly stickers. I attached some tulle so that her cute little spider could hang out in our dining room for Halloween.

She has been thrilled all week, to see it on display..50 cents, well spent.

Also linking up with:

The Gunny Sack

Vintage School Desk

2011-10-28T00:39:00.004-04:00

Around my house, I have a project (or two) that need to be finished... SO, I can start some new ones!One project I am looking forward to is my"vintage school desk" make-over!
I bought this desk over the summer at a thrift store for $6.

Check out my inspiration:

(source)

I can't wait to get started!

Happy Friday!

Linking up with:

Casey Wiegand, Young & Restless

JessicaNdesigns, A Bowl Full of Lemons

Game Day, gluten free and Giveaway Info.

2011-10-27T14:41:00.001-04:00

Sharing a simple, YUMMY, gluten free snack, that is great for Game Day!

Crunchmasters, Ancient Grains crackers,

dipped in ...

Sabra Roasted Garlic Hummus!

Sabra offers a variety of gluten free products that are great for healthy snacking.

Keep an eye out for their gf symbol

Crunchmaster products are some of my favorite.

We are always munching on cheese and crackers on Sunday.

Crunchmaster offers a variety of flavored crackers.

I hope everyone is enjoying their weekend.

I sure have been, and I'll tell you why....

We did not have ANY PLANS at all.

We did not HAVE TO get anything 'done.'

We did not have to BE ANYWHERE, like a birthday party or dinner function.

Our little one did NOT have any activities she had to PARTICIPATE in.

Weekends like these are few and far between around my house,

so I have taken full advantage of it.

I did some organizing in my attic. Finished up laundry.

Got my husband to hang a bookshelf (that has been sitting around for weeks).

Watched, How the Grinch Stole Christmas with Lyla, and took a nice long nap with her.

I love how this weekend didn't seem to fly by.

I love how we all did what we wanted, when we wanted.

We really should have more weekends like this one.

* * *

I want to remind my readers that tomorrow starts my...

HOLIDAY GIVEAWAY WEEK!

There will be a new giveaway each day... so come back, check them out, and enter!

Enjoy your Sunday and "GO RAVENS!"

Embrace the "little" Camera

2011-10-27T09:27:00.003-04:00

I did some online Christmas shopping yesterday. (Yes, I am one of those people who start shopping early, and try to be 90% finished by Thanksgiving. Don't hate.)
This year, Santa is bringing Lyla a camera. She has been asking for a camera, "like Mommys."This snap happy Mom is more than thrilled to buy her a camera....but which one?
I read some reviews yesterday and did a little research. There are more "kids cameras" out there than I thought!
Here are some that I like:
Fisher Price Kid-Tough, See for Yourself CameraThis is an updated version of the Kid-Tough camera.I like that it has a 1.8inch color screen to see your images. My favorite feature is the swivel lens. This camera also comes withcomputer software for 'editing.' So much fun!

Fisher Price Kid-Tough Camera

Crayola Digital Camera

This little camera is 5.1 megapixal.

This is the highest mp, I have seen (as far as kids cameras go).

This camera also has a preview screen, built in flash and includes photo editing software.

Leap Frog Talking Digital Camera

Who doesn't love the little 'voice' of Leapfrog?

This camera includes software, has a 1.5 inch screen and built in flash.

I also like that it's light weight.

Lego Camera

3 megapixals, built in flash and 1.5 inch lcd screen.

It holds 80 pictures, which is slightly less than the other cameras. It's also a little heavier.

But seriously, so adorable.

I just can't wait to see the world through her little eyes!I'm sure we will get some good laughs!

1920's Flapper.

2011-10-25T22:50:00.007-04:00

This past weekend was the annual Halloween Costume Contest and Paradein our community. As I mentioned in my last post, my daughter has placed every year. Well, the kids a champion. She placed second again this year. I was so excited! I was excited for her, because she won a gift card to Toys R Us, and was SO ready for some shopping. I was excited for myself, because I made her costume! My mom always made my costume. I think that's part of the fun of Halloween.
So today, I will share some pics. of her 1920's Flapper costume.
We had a busy weekend. Lyla had a birthday party to attend before the parade on Saturday.Well, time got away from us and we found ourselves rushing home to get ready.I usually taker some costume pictures before the parade, this year I did not have time. I did get a picture of the Flapper as she was standing in the 'judging line.' She was a little nervous.

As the costume contest and parade ended, it started to get dark and we were ready for some dinner and relaxation. Pictures after the parade were out of the question.

Today, I decided to take advantage of the lovely weather and have a Halloween photo shoot. Lyla had no problem putting on her costume! I told her that we would go to the park and take some pictures, and then she could go shopping with her 'prize money.'

I am so happy I made this decision.

Cute costume shots are now taken, and I will not have to think about them on Halloween!

Costume

Headband: black sequins (Party Store) with a large feather attached (JoAnns)

Jewelry: white pearls (Party Store and Grandma's)

Accessories: Sequined purse, fishnet stockings

(both sold at the Party Store) and flower pin (Target)

Shoes: her Tap shoes (dance supply store)

Dress: I bought a half yard of sparkly black material, wrapped it around her, and cut to size.

I did not even sew her costume, I simply used velcro on the back.

I also used some of the material to make little straps on the dress. I attached the straps with velcro also (can you tell I did not want to dust off my sewing machine?)!

If you can sew, it would probably take all of 20 minutes.

I also attached a line of fringe to the bottom of her sparkly dress (iron on adhesive).

I lined the inside of her dress with black fleece for extra warmth.

Again, I used iron on adhesive to attach the fleece.

Lyla did wear a black leotard under her Flapper dress because it was a little chilly.

Most of the items for this costume I had around the house, and the material I bought was on sale. So it was a pretty inexpensive costume. I used a little black eye shadow, dark blush, and red lipstick on her face. She was thrilled!

Now I am looking forward to Trick or Treating, and stealing some of her good candy!

Linking up with:Eisy Morgan, Southern LovelyTheArtsyGirlConnection, RubSomeDirtOnItWhenTrueLoveJustWalksIn, IHeartNaptime

Halloween Flashback.

2011-10-20T08:21:00.008-04:00

Today I am Embracing the Camera, with some Halloween Flashbacks.
Pictures below are from Lyla's first Halloween. She was a beautiful little bride.Our community holds a costume contest and parade every October.She won first place as an individual and cutest couple with her groom!

Bride Costume

Gown: Her Baptism dress (Macys), something old.

Veil: White headband, embellished with pearls, flowers and tulle, something new.

Jewelry: Pearl bracelet that was her grandmothers, something borrowed.

Garter: We tied a blue ribbon around her ankle, something blue.

On Halloween night, we went trick or treating as Witches!

Last year, Lyla went as an Indian. At the annual costume contest she won second place as an individual, and again cutest couple with her cowboy.

Indian Costume

Headpiece: Brown faux suede with braided ribbon hot glued to the middle.

I attached a feather and small beads in the back.

Necklace: Beads, purchased at JoAnns.

Dress: I traced one of her dresses onto the brown faux suede, and cut out 2 pieces.

Around the neck, I attached snaps so that top would stay together.

Down the side of the dress, I punctured little holes from the middle, to the bottom. I then used 'ribbon' I had made with the suede material and laced up the side of the dress. I added a few beads to the ends of the ribbon, once they were tied. The material I used for the dress was purchased at JoAnns. It had a little pattern at the bottom, that was perfect for Lylahontas.

For trick or treating, I went as a Cheetah!

This weekend Lyla will be dressing up as a Flapper, from the 1920's.

Today I am finishing up her costume. I can't wait to share the pictures!

Also linking up with:Yesterday on Tuesday, Young & Restless, Kojo Designs, RubSomeDirtOnIt, The Gunny SackA Bowl Full of Lemons, TheArtsyGrilConnection

The Simple Things, Sunday.

2011-10-16T08:37:00.000-04:00

Her first "Pigtails."

Finally, I was able to pull some hair up,

and add cute little bows!

We are still waiting patiently for some hair on the top!

Cute, nonetheLESS.

Have a WONDERFUL Sunday.Go Ravens!

Gluten Free (Friday).

2011-10-14T08:18:00.003-04:00

A couple of days ago I read a post on Jamie's blog about Cupcakes. Yum.

I asked her if she would be interested in sharing her post here, and she instantly agreed.

She's SWEET like that (Pun intended. Get it... it's a cupcake post)?!

Honestly, Jame is a lovely blogger.

She is a wife, momma, and crafter, who loves coffee and candy!

Saturday Morning Cartoons.

2011-10-13T11:29:00.002-04:00

I remember watching "Saturday morning Cartoons" as a child. Smurfs, Alvin and the Chipmunks, Care bears, Punky Brewster, Garfield, Pee-Wee's Playhouse, Fraggle Rock, Small Wonder, Saved by the Bell.The lineup was awesome.
On Saturday mornings I let Lyla eat breakfast in (my) bed and watch Cartoons.Her lineup is quite different (I like mine more).Although- she is actually learning while watching her shows.I'm not sure how much I gained by watching Beetlejuice and Ghostbusters.

Also linking up with: Casey Wiegand, Rub Some Dirt on It

Dry Erase, Learning letters.

2011-10-11T17:01:00.006-04:00

My daughter is starting to "write" her name.Her name is Lyla- so it's fairly easy to learn because of the straight lines, in L, y and l, and then a is obviously a circle with a straight line.To help her out, I made her a "dry erase" board with her name on it, so that she can trace it (and then draw me a cute picture at the bottom)!
Supplies:Scrapbook Paper Sentence strips (or lined Scrapbook paper)*sentence strips can be found at Teaching supply stores or Office supply*Scotch Self-sealing Laminate Sheets (Target, or Office Supply store)Dry erase markers scissors/glue
Step 1:Gather supplies

Step 2:

Write your childs name on a sentence strip (in a light color)

OR simply write your childs name on 'lined' paper.

I could not believe the variety of scrapbook paper with "writing lines" on them!

I purchased my paper at JoAnns.

Glue the sentence strip with their name onto scrap paper. I chose Disneys, Belle, because she is one of her favorite princesses, and I thought it would help to encourage the activity.

Step 3:

"Laminate" the scrap paper. I use Scotches Self Sealing laminate sheets, because I do not have a laminate machine of my own. Oh, how I wish I did. I would go crazy laminating things.

Until then, the self sealing sheets are SO easy to use. Basically, you open the laminate sheet, pop in your paper (whatever it is you want laminated) and carefully close the sheet. Easy.

This activity is perfect for when the kiddos are sitting at the dining table waiting,

(oh so patiently) for dinner to be ready!

Again, I was pleasantly surprised to see the variety of scrap book paper with lines for writing.

I laminated some cute paper, so that I can jot down quick reminders, I found a cute little calendar where I can scribble dinner ideas for the week, as well as "school themed" paper- perfect for any child learning to write their letters and numbers!

I think the Expo (dry erase) markers work best with these laminating sheets (Crayola, not so much).

We use baby wipes for erasing.

Have fun teaching your kids to "print" their letters!

In a few years they will laugh at the thought of "writing" anything...

they will just be pushing buttons on their keyboards and ipads!

Linking up with:
A Bowl Full of Lemons, Naptime Momtog
Eisy Morgan, A Little Tipsy, Southern Lovely, Whipperberry

Simple Things Sunday.

2011-10-09T10:39:00.001-04:00

This week we took advantage of the rise in temperature.And... no rain! FInally! We got to play outside, take walks and to go the park.(And of course run errands and do yard work, among other projects)But again, it was not in rainy, damp, cold weather.
Lyla did some painting on our back deck. She was so serious about her artwork.She took her time and was occupied for a good 45 minutes.I enjoyed a cup of coffee and Real Simple.Mornings like these are wonderful.Simple & Wonderful.

Spiders.

2011-10-04T14:12:00.007-04:00

I decorated for Halloween this weekend. One thing I do every year is SO easy, I just had to share.I take 'spider rings' (you can find them at any party store, Target, or Dollar Store), and attach them to my curtains! I simply bend the 'ring' part of the spider, around a 'fold/gather' on my curtains!
That's it. It cost about $1/bag of spiders (I have been using the same spiders for years now), and takes about 1 minute to attach them.
It just adds a touch of creepy fun!

I also like to stick them in random places, like my husbands sock drawer!

Linking up with:

A Bowl Full of Lemons, A Little Tipsy
MamaMommyMom, Southern Lovely, Eisy Morgan, Life According to Damaris

Have fun decorating!

DondaLee's.

2011-10-03T11:30:00.001-04:00

Since I started blogging, I have 'met' some amazing and talented women.

I have been reading blogs for years now, but until recently, I never 'interacted' with any of the authors, or even entered giveaways! I'm glad that's changed.

One of the OH SO TALENTED ladies I've met, is Dondi.

Dondi has an adorable Etsy Shop where you will find vintage, shabby chic items.

She is also the designer of my super cute blog!

If you haven't already, you should go check her out!

My daughter just celebrated her 'half' birthday. Why not, right?

I gave her an adorable children's bracelet from Dondi's shop.

It's the "I've got a Dream" bracelet inspired by the movie Tangled.

She loves it! Thank you so much Dondi!

* * * * * * *

Linking up with the CrazyJoy Challenge.

Challenge: To be creative weekly based off of a random word and then photograph it.

CrazyJoy Challenge word this week: Assembly.

Two, and a HALF.

2011-10-02T10:12:00.001-04:00

Happy Half Birthday.

You only eat half of your dinner.

You put your shirt on half-way, before asking for help.

You color half of a page in your coloring book, before starting a new one.

When we are half-way through a bedtime story, you ask for another.

You have outgrown half of your toys, and are willing to give them away.

Happy Half Birthday

Lyla Grace.

We love you a Whole lot!

Today I am linking up with:

Simple As That

Every Sunday, Rebecca Cooper, author of Simple As That blog, has a photo challenge.

She encourages you to take a photo of something 'simple' in your life. You can link up your photo with her every Sunday. I love this challenge. I love the photo's that I have taken because of it, and I know they will be ones I look back on and cherish. Today Rebecca is celebrating her one year anniversary of 'the simple things Sunday' challenge. Head over to her blog to link up your photo, and enter the amazing giveaway she has going on!

Also, linking up with:

Sweet Little Gals

Embrace the Camera. 09.29.11

2011-09-29T08:29:00.005-04:00

Embrace the Camera.

I love this picture. You many not see the whole me,

but I see what will remind me of our many walks together.

I will remember how she always knew to hold my hand when crossing the street,

but was quick to let go and be independent once her toes touched the sidewalk again.

I will remember her request to have her picture taken with lawn ornaments.

And fire hydrants.

Linking up with:

AND...
Our Family of FourThe Wiegands, Jenny from the Blog

Abstract Art. 09.26.11

2011-09-26T10:24:00.004-04:00

Abstract Art, tape painting.

I live on the East Coast. We have had a lot of rainy, cloudy, yucky days in the past couple of weeks. I've read a lot of posts on other blogs about the beauty of Fall. I too love Fall, however in Maryland we are not there, yet. We are in a damp, muggy, transition phase.

Come on crisp air and beautiful leaves.

Because we (my daughter and I) have had to spend extra time inside, we have been doing some crafting. So, there is the plus side to the gross weather around here.

Last week Lyla did some abstract artwork.

This project was easy, fun, and turned out super cute!

I found the idea for this project over at Let's Explore.

Supplies:

Canvas (any size)

Paint/brush

Painters tape

Step 1:

Gather Supplies

Step 2:

Cut/Rip strips of painters tape and arrange lines on canvas.

This is where you can get creative.

I placed the tape on the canvas for Lyla,

older kids will have fun making their own designs.

Make sure the tape is firmly pressed down on the canvas, to minimize any paint bleeding.

Step 3:

Let your little Artist start painting! I explained to Lyla to stay in one "shape" with the same color. She understood, however she went 'out of the lines' a few times. I am ok with that. It shows that she is two and a half, and going outside of the lines is ok, at any age.

So serious.

Step 4:

After the artist is finished painting, allow canvas to dry. We let ours dry for about 3 hours.

Step 5:

Slowly peal off the painters tape.

And... voila! Enjoy your Abstract Art!

I think this 'piece' will be hung in the playroom.

Linking up with:

Southern Lovely, A Little Tipsy, Eisy Morgan

JessicaNDesigns

the simple things Sunday.

2011-09-25T08:52:00.003-04:00

Watch your shins.

People tend to move OUT of her WAY.

She gets to sample meat & cheese at the Deli,

then enjoys her free cookie from the Bakery.

I like to buy fresh flowers, she likes to pick them!

This silly little grocery cart, for my 'customer in training,' is a simple thing.

I may have to help steer at times & apologize to someone in every aisle,

but it's SO worth it.

Happy Sunday.

09.22.11

2011-09-22T10:01:00.001-04:00

Embrace the Camera.

One of my goals right now is to be IN pictures with my daughter... I am always behind the camera. So many of us moms have this issue.

I love the idea behind, Embrace the Camera. It forces you to be a part of the picture.

Here is my problem. I just don't "like", a lot of the pictures I take. I will attempt to use the 'self-timer' on my camera, get a quick pic. of myself, with the little one... and I don't "like" how it turned out. Or, even if Mr. Espo takes the picture, I still delete it. How many of you don't "like" they way you look in a picture. Or, you don't like how the picture turned out (since my love for photography has grown stronger, I am becoming picky about little things in my pictures).

Then I thought about this 'problem.'

How am I going to get more pictures of myself with my daughter?

Solution:

Get over it! Plain and Simple.

The reality is, I want these pictures to remember something special we may have been doing together. I want to remember milestones with her. I want her to look back at pictures from when she was little, and see me with her, laughing together, playing together. The memory is important. Who cares if I am having a bad hair day. Who cares if my husband couldn't re-position himself while taking the pictures, to avoid the trashcan in the image( yeah, I need to get over stuff like that). Who cares?

Not me. Not any more.

I am embracing the camera.

This picture was taken in June. I remember I didn't like the way my hair looked... I'm surprised I didn't delete it. I'm HAPPY I didn't delete it. I love this picture now. I don't have many pictures of the three of us. Our Family. That needs to change.

These pictures were taken last week by my dad. The lighting is terrible at Gymnastics. The background isn't so pretty. I still LOVE these pictures. I want to remember taking this class with Lyla. I want her to be able to look back at these pictures.

09.20.11

2011-09-20T08:18:00.012-04:00

Diy. Earring Holder.

I have been looking for a cute earring holder for daughters room, and I haven't been able to find one that I really liked and went with the look of her room at the same time.

So, I decided to make one myself!

Supplies:

Picture frame ( The picture frame I used is from Ikea)

fabric and scissors

cork (I used squares, found at Michael's)

spray adhesive

hot glue gun/glue

clothes pin

small envelope

Step 1:

Remove the back of the frame.

Cut your cork to the size of the frame insert. Mine was a 5x7. Cut fabric to be slightly larger (to give room to wrap extra fabric around the cork).

Step 2:

Spray the adhesive on your cork and cover with fabric. I chose to glue down the fabric on the back side of the cork, for extra hold.

Step 3:

Once the glue is dry, place your fabric covered cork, into the picture frame.

Step 4:

Re-attach the back of the frame. Hot glue a clothes pin to the back. Clip a small envelope to the clothes pin. The envelope is used to store the earring 'backings.' I found my envelope at Michael's. Thank you Martha Stewart.

Step 5:

Add cute little earrings!

View from behind.

So simple & super cute. This craft can be made for children and adults. It's a great gift idea too. Throw together a cute Earring Holder Frame and wrap it up with a fun pair of earrings!

Linking up with:

not just a housewife, the girl creative

Giggles, Glitz & Glam , Homework, Yesterday on Tuesday, I Heart Naptime

Southern Lovely , Young & Restless , clairejustineoxox, JessicaN Designs, A Bowl Full of Lemons

09.18.11

2011-09-18T07:39:00.002-04:00

The Simple Things Sunday, Rebecca Cooper.

Lyla noticed some of the bulbs we had planted during the summer

are now beginning to bloom into flowers, Dahlias.

I loved capturing the expression on her face when she saw them- I got lucky!

09.18.11

2011-09-17T23:05:00.001-04:00

Mommy & Me, Fall Shoes. via, Nordstrom.

Uggs. Hunter. Toms. Jessica Simpson.

My shoe size is a 4.5. Yes, very small. Typically it's hard to find cute shoes for myself (without having velcro or a character on the side).

However, sometimes I get lucky and find shoes I like in the 'kids section',
and they are always less expensive than the adults.

There's an upside to everything!

link

09.16.11

2011-09-16T20:50:00.001-04:00

Gluten Free Friday.

I have mentioned I have a sweet tooth.
Lately, I have been enjoying this little dessert, topped with whipped cream.

Yum.

I have also mentioned I rarely cook. For those of you who would do, here are some recipes I found for Rice pudding.

http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/creamiest-rice-pudding/detail.aspx

All Recipes. com

A Gluten Free Day

Celiac. com

Enjoy!

(if anyone has any yummy gluten free recipes they would like to share, please e-mail me @ jamieespo@hotmail.com)

09.16.11

2011-09-16T15:05:00.003-04:00

So big. So small.
My daughter Lyla was five and half pounds when she was born.
My husband is pretty big- muscular. She looked so very small in his arms.

She was only a few weeks old when she started sleeping in her crib, as opposed to the bassinet next to our bed.

I remember thinking it was funny the first time my husband laid her down. He laid her vertically in her crib, as opposed to horizontally (which is what I would have done). It didn't matter which way she was laying, she was so tiny in her big crib and swaddled so tight, we knew she would be ok.

She was. Our tiny little girl slept just fine in the crib that looked too big for her.

Eventually, she had to sleep horizontally in her crib.

Not long after, she was sleeping in her toddler bed. She looked like such a big girl in her little toddler bed.

This week was a BIG week at our house. Lyla got her 'big girl bed.'

My husband and I spent time finding the right mattress. I went shopping for her new sheets, pillows and a comforter.

Last night was Lylas first night in her 'big girl bed.'
She looked so small again.

We followed our typically night time routine. When we said prayers, I asked God to keep Lyla safe in her new bed (and more importantly, keep her in her new bed).

A part of me wanted to ask her if she needed me to lay with her for a few minutes.
I didn't offer.
I didn't want her to think she needed me. She didn't. She was fine. She's brave.
We kissed and said goodnight at 8:40pm. She went to sleep.

I checked on her at 9pm.
Again at 10pm. Noticed she was horizontal.
At 11pm I crawled into her bed. She was asleep.
I needed to. Just for a little while.
My big girl looked so small again, and I wanted to cherish it.

She was a proud and happy this morning..

Mommy Loves you! My sweet, little, 'big girl.'

09.15.11

2011-09-15T09:04:00.006-04:00

Tulips & Embrace the Camera.
Let me start this post by saying- I do not have a "green thumb."
Regardless, I attempt to have a nice little garden, and I love having fresh flowers around the house.

One of my favorite flowers are Tulips.

Sometime during the Spring when I saw them blooming in others gardens, I put a post-it note on my calendar in 'September' that reminded me that's when I needed to plant them!

I always forget about planting them in September/early October.

I do my gardening in the Spring, and maintain it throughout the summer. My Mums bloom in early Fall, and then my garden is slowly covered with snow in the winter. My little garden (which is in the front of my house) mainly consist of perennials. I add a few annuals in the Spring to spice it up with some color. Simple really.

This month I am going to plant a few tulips in my front garden, but I also plan on putting some in my back yard. Actually, I want to plant a lot in my backyard. My plan is to have beautiful tulips pop up in the spring, so I can then have breath taking arrangements around my house for a few weeks. I figured if I plant a bunch in my backyard, I won't mind cutting them.

Tulips.com is a resourceful website with tips on planting and growing these beautiful flowers.

I also found Gardening with Kids had great information. My little one enjoys 'gardening' with me. She is great at watering the flowers (and herself, and me)!

* * *

I JUST started using the self timer on my camera.

I have a lot of learning to do (hence the blurry-ness)

Regardless, with my attempt at something new, I got to

capture my daughter and I being silly. This picture was take on her first

day of gymnastics. Now I will get to look back and remember

the special & fun day we had together. She enjoys looking at this picture because she likes to admire the stamp she got on her hand, for being a 'superstar.' I like looking at it, because

it's rare to be in a picture with her, because I am always behind the camera.

09.14.11

2011-09-14T13:20:00.001-04:00

WHAT?! Me? An AWARD?
I started my day off with a Salted Caramel Frappucino from Starbucks.
Amazing. Dangerous maybe.

My mornings begin with coffee (or Starbucks) while enjoy some of my "daily reads".

It's like my version of a cup of coffee and reading the paper. Do people still 'read the paper?'

Well, today when I checked out Jennifer March... I found out I won an award!

What a fabulous way to start my day! She tagged me with the Versatile Blogger Award.

How fun! And I have only been blogging for a little over two weeks!

The rules:
-Thank the award-giver and link back to them in your post.
-Tell your readers 7 things about yourself.
-Give this award to up to 15 recently discovered bloggers.
-Contact those bloggers and tell them the exciting news!

Thanks-

I would like to thank Jen for giving me this award and welcoming me into the blog world.

7 Things about ME-

1. I have a major sweet tooth.

2. I LOVE Target.

3. I can NOT cook, but would like to get better, for my husbands sake.

4. I do not drive on the highway. Im just too scared.

5. I want to go on a cruise next year. I think I need to talk the hubs into this one.

6. I recently started using Manual mode on my camera and I'm SO PROUD of myself.

7. Guilty pleasure-reality t.v. Yep, I kinda hate to admit to that one.

I am giving this award to-

Katelyn at Domestic Charm

Christa at Young & Restless

Mandi at Sweet Tiny Blessings

Congrats!

* * *

Check out these giveaways today over at:

A Bowl Full of Lemons (Clutter Rehab, by Laura Wittmann)

Simple as That (Coco prints. Adorable typography)

Good luck to those who enter!

Have a wonderful day!

09.13.11

2011-09-13T14:52:00.002-04:00

How to get your baby to sleep through the night.

Well, obviously every child is different.
How many times have we heard that as new parents?

But... I can offer some suggestions that helped me (and my little one) along the way.

The facts:

My daughter is 2 and a half. She has been sleeping through the night, meaning a straight 10-12hrs. for the last 2 years.

Up until she was 2, she took an hour nap in the morning and a 2 hr. nap in the afternoon.
When she turned 2, we cut out the morning nap.
Now she takes one 2hr. nap a day, and still sleeps an average of 12 hrs. through the night.

Here is my secret:

A DARK room. I'm sure most of you have heard this tip- I swear by it.

From the moment we brought Lyla home, we made sure she knew the difference between awake time (we were louder, active, playful, eating, singing, walking, talking, LIGHTS ON, etc.) and nap/night time (quiet, calm, peaceful, LIGHTS OFF, etc.).

That was our starting point.
We also made sure to DARKEN her room.

There are many methods to darkening a room.
One of the most common ways is darkening shades/blinds.

When we decorated our nursery, we purchased honeycomb shades without a drawstring (for safety reasons). Therefor I did not want to spend any more money on darkening shades (they can be pricy).

So I went to the dollar store!

I purchased 4 pieces of black poster board. I cut the poster board to be the size of my window pane. I used large Zots to attach them to the window (however, in warm weather, they will melt off- use a strong masking or duct tape).

I made sure to cut the poster board (slightly) smaller than the pane of the window, so that I could still lift the window up and down, without the poster board getting in the way.
I always keep her honeycomb blinds down to hide the poster board (or halfway down if her window is open).

You can darken your child's room using this method for nearly $5.00. It takes less than 10 minutes. Easy peasy.

Along with a dark room, consistency is key. Nine out of ten times, she naps and goes to bed at the same time. We have the same routines before nap, and before bed.

I was a firm believer in letting our sweet little princess, cry it out. It was HARD, and I cried it out with her... but within two weeks (of her crying herself to sleep... and sometimes she cried for a looooonnng time) she fell fast asleep on her own.

We gave her hugs and kisses and laid her down. We never rocked her. We never let her fall asleep with her bottle. She also never used a Binky.
We're terrible, aren't we?

She wakes up happy and has always played in her crib, and now bed, until we come in to get her.These methods worked for us.

I can also tell you where we went WRONG...
Because we made sure our house was nice and quiet when Lyla would fall asleep, she got use to the silence. Now, she is a "light sleeper." She is sensitive to sound. She is not the child who falls asleep in the car, or in my lap at a restaurant. As she has gotten older, I can make more noise (for ex. I can vacuum during her nap now, and it doesn't wake her. A year ago, it may have).

I know a lot of parents have sleepless nights- we got pretty lucky.
I hope this advice helps some parents who need to catch up on their Zzzz's!

09.12.11

2011-09-12T08:50:00.006-04:00

The Simple things.

Watching her dance, is a simple thing that makes me smile.
Today my little ballerina starts her second year of 'dance class.'
So this post is for all the Dance Moms:

I mentioned the RoseCreek Cottage in this post.

Carol makes me most adorable hand stamped jewelry.

Every little ballerina should have a necklace like this:

So sweet.

You can visit the RoseCreek Cottage website here. You will LOVE her creative designs.

Check out the 'how to' for this adorable little craft here.

As soon as Lyla outgrows her first pair of ballet slippers, I plan on making something like this.

and This would be beautiful framed.

Here are some Ballet Coloring Pages, for your little twinkle toes to enjoy:

http://www.coloring.ws/ballet.htm

http://www.kids-n-fun.com/coloringpages/kleurplaat_Ballet_201.aspx

http://coloring-nicole.blogspot.com/2008/03/ballerina-primavera-coloring-pages.html

And my crazyjoy photo challenge pic. is here:

This week the challenge word was rock.

Well, the Baltimore Ravens ROCKed yesterday!

And yes I think the Ravens go along with my Ballet post quite well.

Don't football players have to be as graceful as dancers?!

Have a great Monday!

09.11.11

2011-09-11T01:14:00.001-04:00

America & Football.

Friday night as I was getting my daughter ready for bed, I caught glimpses of a t.v. show 'remembering' 9-11.

A segment that had me stop and listen, was one of a mother. Her husband was a NYC firefighter. He was called to duty. He saved lives. He lost his.

His wife was pregnant, and she gave birth 28 days after his death, to a little boy.

Now, 10 years later, her son wrote a letter to his Dad. He told him he has heard he looks just like him. Talks like him. Has his sense of humor. His personality. He admits he is amazed how much he is said to be like him, though they never met. He tells his Daddy, he wishes he was here, and that he loves him.

I turned the t.v. off. I lost it.

After I tucked my daughter in bed, I prayed in mine. I asked God to be with those who lost loved ones. I am blessed. I did not lose anyone on 9-11. I was able to turn the t.v. off when I couldn't take it anymore.

So many people do not get to 'turn it off.'

May God bless those who lost loved ones, and may God bless America.

For those of you watching football today- Good luck and enjoy spending time with family and friends!

Let's Go RAVENS!

09.10.11

2011-09-09T22:59:00.001-04:00

Gluten Free Friday (on Saturday).
In the short amount of time since I have started my gluten free diet, I found the snack I miss most is a... granola bar.
I love granola bars. They are quick, easy and oh so good. My favorite brand would have to be Nature Valley, a very close second is Quaker.

In my hunt for a store bought gluten free granola bar, I found these:
(Nature Valley and Quaker are not at all associated with this post. They have no clue actually, and probably never will, but just thought I should put it out there).

They are DELICIOUS. REALLY, REALLY good!

The only shock to me was the texture of the bar. Both are crunchier than most. Crispy might be a good word. Like, crumbs will fall, I promise. If you are OCD about not getting crumbs in your car, don't eat one on the way to work.

I did find that these were hard to locate. So, I e-mailed General Mills.

They were quick to respond and let me know that they are sold in bulk at BJ's Wholesale Club, Costco and Sams Club.

They also offer a website for their gluten free products:

glutenfreely.com

(and when I checked out the website... these granola bars were the 'feature product,'
man, I have good taste)!

Since I am new to living gluten free, I have not attempted any recipes (I rarely attempted them before) but for those of you looking for a recipe similar to the Quaker Chewy granola bar, I found this one.

09.09.11

2011-09-09T08:03:00.002-04:00

Gymnastics, here we come!
A lot of parents have been posting on the, "Back to School" topic.

I love reading those post. I like to see others routines, traditions and crafty-ness when it comes time to head back to school. It's a good excuse for a fresh start. Whether your the one heading 'back to school' or not!

My little one is only 2 (and a half) so we are not heading off to school just yet. However, we are heading off to Gymnastics!

I found a program in my area that offers a "Mommy and Me" gymnastics class for toddlers.

While surfing the Internet for 'gymnastics coloring pages,' I stumbled upon an adorable store.

The RoseCreek Cottage

They create personalized, hand stamped, sterling silver jewelry.

For my little gymnast, I found this:

My little gymnast is also a little dancer:

Everything from the collection is adorable. I fell in love with this:

and this:

HERE is the link to The Rosecreek Cottage website.
HERE is the link to The Rosecreek Cottage Blog.

You will fall in love with the owner Carol... super sweet.

Enjoy!

Below are some links to 'gymnastics coloring pages.'

On Coloring

The Doll Palace

Color Me Good

Wish us luck today!

09.08.11

2011-09-08T09:42:00.002-04:00

Just Start. Like, Now.
I love pinterest... don't we all? It' inspiring, helpful and ADDICTING!

However, I've run into a little problem. A slump.
I have 'projects' that need to get done around the house, started actually. Some have to do with decorating, some organizing. So, pinterest has been a great place to start, BUT... now that I have all my cute little ideas, nice and organized on my 'bulletin,' I have to actually START my projects. Like, now.

The projects around my house include:
Decorating and organizing our office. It's a nightmare!
Re-do our upstairs bathroom. Like, gut it and re-do it.
Organize and decorate the playroom.

and the one I am going to START now is ....
Spice up Lyla's room and put together her big girl bed!!!

My daughter is 2 and a half. She has slept in her 'toddler bed' for a few months now. She's over it. So am I. We bought her a Convertible crib-to-bed set from JCPenny. It's worked out for us so far. Last week when I decided we would convert her toddler bed into her 'big girl bed,' I realized I had lost the nuts/bolts and INSTRUCTIONS to do so. So, that stinks.

This is Lyla's bed for now. She thinks it's cool. Me, not so much.

Now my husband has to head to the hardware store to purchase what we need to get this bed together.

In the meantime, I am looking online for new bedding. Fun!

Here is some inspiration I found (all images found on pinterest):

Does anyone else ever get into that kind of a slump? Where you are really excited to get things done around your house and make it look super cute- but you just have a hard time starting?

Well, I am going to do at least ONE thing today to get started on my daughters room. Even if it's something small, I am doing it!

Wish me luck!

09.06.11

2011-09-06T11:13:00.003-04:00

About ME.

I like KNOWING about a person who writes a blog- don't you? I like knowing about their 'day.' I like seeing pics. of their house. It makes reading the blog more interesting. Personal.

So, on that note, today I am telling you a little about myself.

I have been married for almost 5 years. We got married 2 days before Christmas. The wedding was perfect. We have one little girl. She is perfect.

My husband is a Crew Leader/lineman at an electric company. I am a SAHM. We have the same EXACT birthday, pretty crazy, right?

I tried to find a QUESTIONNAIRE online. One that I thought would be fun for you to read. I didn't see any that I LOVED, but this one will do:

What did you do last night ?

1.Cooked dinner (ham, zucchini and baked beans.... I'm not a huge fan of baked beans, but the hubs wanted some). 2. Played Candyland. 2. Night time routine with the little one (oh, Candyland was played with the little one as well). 3. Watched Real Housewives of Beverly Hills. Yes, I did.

If you could pack up and move where would you go?

In the States, Florida, outside of the States, Grand Cayman or St. Martin, or Turks and Caicos.

We took our second trip to Turks in June. It was beautiful. Love it.

What are you excited for?

I am excited for the weekend. My daughter starts gymnastics Friday morning. Friday night we are hanging out with some friends and Saturday night we are headed to a Bunco party! Sunday I will thank God for a wonderful weekend, I'm sure.

Are your parents divorced?

Yes.

Do you have a tattoo?

Yes. It's on my toe. It's a toe-ring. Do I regret it...yes. It looks like I have a bruised toe.

What' s your mood right now?

Pretty Good. Still waking up. I'm not a morning person. At all.

Are you stubborn?

Oh yeah. I can be. (Right dear?)

Are you listening to music right now?

Nope.

In winter, would you rather wear jackets or hoodies?

Hoodies.

How long can you go without your mobile phone ?

I could go over a week, or month. No biggie.

What is one place you would love to visit right now?

St. Barts. Really want to go there, and Bora Bora.

Do you like winter?

Not really. Just Christmas. Not a fan of January and February.

How many hours did you sleep for last night ?

Not enough. 6 maybe... I usually aim for 8hrs.

Are you addicted to anything?

Yes, diet coke.

What is one of your best qualities?

My patience.

What do you do when you get mad?

Count to 5 (in my head) and take a deep breath. It takes a lot for me to get mad. I get annoyed with things, but not mad.

When was the last time you had your hair cut?

Mid August. I usually get my hair cut 4 times a year.

If you had to go without one food group for the rest of your life, which would it be?

Grains. I have Celiac disease.

Who is your favorite talk show host?

Ellen. Went to Vegas in April. We stayed at the Venetian and Ellen was filming there! My husband snapped this pic. while I was dancing!

What makes you happy?

My husband and my daughter. Taking pictures. Diet Coke. A clean house. Christmas morning. Cruises (love, LovE, LOVE cruises). Beautiful weather. Church with my fam. Tropical Islands.Reading. Eating sushi & Muddy Buddies (not necessarily together). Reality t.v. (yep, it's true. guilty pleasure). My parents. Crafting. The beach. Being a Mom.

So, that's a little about me.

Isn't it fun finding stuff out about the blogger behind the blog?!

09.05.11

2011-09-05T15:29:00.002-04:00

Crazy Joy Challenge.

It can be hard to keep your mind creative so we decided to challenge our creativity by taking a photo each week of the same word for an entire year. Every Friday one of us will choose a theme, or word to interpret and post it on our blog. We will each have the weekend to think on it, photograph it, draw it, make it, whatever we want to do to represent that word and then we will each post our interpretations on Monday. We hope you'll join us in the challenge and link up each week!

- Leslie at Recipe for Crazy & Anna at The Joy Cottage

Here is my interpretation of this weeks challenge word: young.

09.04.11

2011-09-04T07:50:00.003-04:00

the simple things, CHALLENGE.

With a challenge entitled 'the simple things' how could I not take part.

This weekly reminder to focus on the simple, ordinary moments that make my life beautiful has been such a blessing...especially on days when finding those simple joys feels like a challenge. - Rebecca Cooper

09.03.11

2011-09-03T22:45:00.002-04:00

UPDATE 09.08.11.

Thank you, thank you, thank you!
A to the lovely ladies who sent me turtorials on how to create a button and those who offered words of encouragment, but were honest enough to admit they had no clue how to make one either!

Christa was sweet enough to create the code for my button (although she was just being a sweetie- she does not do this for everyone or for a living)!!

However, she did post a great tutorial here, so go check it out!

Thank you so much!

***

Help me, please.
I am HORRIBLE with computers. HORRIBLE. I am sitting in front of a beautiful 27 inch iMAC, and I basically have no idea how to use it. Pretty sad.

Anyway, my plea for help is about my "button."
And let me tell ya, my "buttons" have been pushed attempting this whole, 'button/html code' ordeal.

So, I made this cute button- so that readers can add it to their blog, if they would like to easily connect to mine, right? Like SO MANY of you have. You, being the ones that could figure it out.

WEll... I am so proud of myself for creating my 'button' using flickr. It was easy.

NOW WHAT?

I have the button on my sidebar, but how do I add the 'text/code' underneath, so YOU can copy the button???

I know this should not be that hard- but for me, it really is. I have spent the last hour on 'google' trying to figure it out.

I'm over the tutorials. I just need someone to e-mail me or comment with EASY, simple steps, in real English, not: html>insert your text here< language. Seriously.

Help me, please. I'm a super nice/awesome person!

: )

09.03.11

2011-09-03T10:44:00.001-04:00

Kids Bottle Sprinkler.
Here is a quick DIY, sprinkler for the kids to play with outside.
Perfect for the Labor Day weekend.

Supplies:
Water/Soda/Juice Bottle
Scissors/Knife
Sharpies (for older kids who want to 'decorate' their Bottle Sprinkler)

Step 1. Gather Supplies

Step 2. Puncture holes into lower half of bottle

Step 3. Fill with water

Step 4. Enjoy!

Have a fun and safe Labor Day weekend!

09.02.11

2011-09-02T16:41:00.002-04:00

Gluten Free (Friday).
This summer, I was diagnosed with Celiac disease.

Celiac disease ( /ˈsiːli.æk/; spelled celiac disease in North America^[1]) is an autoimmune disorder of the small intestine that occurs in genetically predisposed people of all ages from middle infancy onward. Symptoms include chronic diarrhoea, failure to thrive (in children), and fatigue, but these may be absent, and symptoms in other organ systems have been described. A growing portion of diagnoses are being made in asymptomatic persons as a result of increased screening;^[2] the condition is thought to affect between 1 in 1,750 and 1 in 105 people in the United States.
Thank you Wikipedia.

I have found many websites to be informative about Celiac, and avoiding gluten in your diet. Avoiding gluten is how you control Celiac disease (as there is not a cure for it, but it is controllable).

My faves. are:
The Celiac Disease Foundation
glutenfreely.com
Mayo Clinic

Right now I am still very much in the learning process. I know the basics- and I know the basic foods to avoid. I do not know all of the foods that have gluten "hidden" in them.

One of the hardest things for me right now- is dealing with the cereal that I have to avoid. My family eats cereal on a daily basis. Whether it's a bowl for breakfast or dry for a snack... it's being eaten all of the time around here. My husband and I like to say we love "kid" cereal. We enjoy cereals like, Lucky Charms, Fruit Loops, Cocoa Krispies, Reese Puffs, Frosted Flakes... and this list goes on and on and on.

Avoiding my yummy/easy kid cereal is hard. I am not a cook. NOT at all. I like easy/quick meals. Cereal is quick and easy.

Right now, I have turned to Chex. I'm happy with Chex.

Here is some info. from the Chex website:
What's gluten?
Gluten is a natural protein that is found in wheat, barley, rye and oats. Foods and ingredients made from these grains may also contain gluten. For example, flour, rye bread, graham crackers and bulgur all contain gluten.

Which Chex^® cereals are gluten free?
Honey Nut Chex®, Chocolate Chex®, Cinnamon Chex®, Rice Chex®, and Corn Chex® are all gluten free. And not only are they gluten free, but each gluten free variety also has more than 8 grams of whole grain per serving, and less than 10 grams of sugar.

Wheat Chex® and Multi-Bran Chex® are not gluten-free.

Right now, my favorite gluten free Chex cereal is Honey Nut. It's SO good. So, so good. Second fave. would have to be Rice Chex, which I sprinkle some sugar on top of. I plan on giving Corn Chex and the Chocolate Chex a try very soon.
(The General Mills company is not in any way affiliated with this blog)

As I take this journey into the gluten free lifestyle.... I will be posting about the ups and downs. I will post product reviews (my opinion) and I may even attempt a recipe or two!!

Also, if are interested in 'guest posting' regarding a gluten free recipe, blog or website, please e-mail me. I would love to hear from you!

09.01.11

2011-09-01T10:16:00.003-04:00

Happy September.
I am SO happy September is here. I enjoyed my summer, but I am looking forward to the Fall. The weather, football (go RAVENS), Halloween & Thanksgiving, caramel apples, cute boots and ROUTINE.

I like routine. I'm kinda addicted to my daily planner. I like having a schedule- but try not to be too OCD about it. Fall just seems like a nice time for a fresh start, and to get back into the 'swing of things.'

I decided to make my little one a Morning and Night Time Daily- Check list. The purpose of the chart is to remind her of the steps she takes to get ready for the day, and before bed.

She is quickly becoming Little Miss Independent. I thought this might help her along.

The chart was super easy for me to make- and I am NOT so great with computer technology. I did the best I could, and it seems to be working out just fine.

Supplies needed to make Routine Checklist:
computer
paper
laminator or laminate sheets (I buy mine at Target)
dry erase marker

Steps to making a Morning or Night Time Routine Checklist for your child:

1. Write down what it is you want your child to be responsible for doing. Ex. brushing teeth, washing face, getting dressed.
2. Open a blank document (Word/Pages) and insert a table.
3. Make 3 columns and as many rows as there are responsibilities for your child.
4. On the far left column insert a square (any shape will work) for your child to 'check off' as they complete the responsibility
5. In the middle column, write what it is that they need to do. Ex. Brush Teeth.
6. In the far right column, insert a picture (for younger children) of what it is they need to be doing. Ex. Put on Jammies, insert a picture of pajamas, or a child dressing them self.

WoW- that seems like a lot of steps, but seriously, not hard.

7. Print document.
8. Laminate the Checklist. That way, it will instantly turn into a 'dry erase board' so that each day and night, your child can check off the list as they go.

Image tip:
To get the images for the 'responsibilites,' I simply Googled the word. Ex. For, brushing teeth, I googled: tooth brush. For say prayers, I googled: cartoon image of Jesus (seriously, I did). Make sure once you 'google' you are looking under the google 'images.' Copy & Paste.
Easy peasy, I swear.

There are MANY ways to make charts/check list. Many more elaborate than mine- but it's working for us. I also found basic ones available for sale on the Internet. I wanted to personalize mine a little.

I hope everyone is getting back into the routine of the school year & ready to enjoy Fall.
Have a great day!

Linking up with:

I Heart Organizing

08.31.11

2011-08-31T00:03:00.004-04:00

Let me introduce you....
To my little munchkin, Lyla Grace.
She is super cute, lots of fun, and has an awesome personality.

She loves dancing, gymnastics, princesses, music and coloring. She's pretty cool.

Anyway... I thought I would introduce her to you, because she will be in many of my pics.

As many of you know- the East Coast was hit with a pretty big storm this weekend- Hurricane Irene.

We had lots of rain, heavy winds and a WHOLE LOT of power outages. My husband works for the largest Electric Company in our state. So, we haven't really seen him this week!

I thought this would be a great time to share a:

KIDS CRAFT.

This project is a simple SCRAP BOOK, PERFECT for a rainy day (or Hurricane)!

My daughter is two and a half, and she loved it. She spent 1 hour at the dining room table creating her book.

This project is good for ages 2 and up. Obviously the younger ones will need some assistance and may not sit as long... but "scrapping" is a great activity for toddlers.

I'm going to gear my example of this craft towards toddlers, but of course it's great for the older kids too.

Supplies:
small photo album (I bought a $3 one at Michaels Arts & Craft)
Scrap book paper
Stickers
Markers
Scissors
Printed pictures

Basically the cost of this project was under $5. I had most of the supplies at home. I just had to pick up a small album and print the pics.
I chose to print at Target- because they are inexpensive.

Lyla made an album of her "friends."

I pre-cut cute scrap paper to fit the size of her album page (4x6).
I set out all of her supplies on the table (aside from the scissors, they were just for me to cut the 4x6 pages).

She colored her pages with glitter pens and used Disney stickers as embellishments.

After about 45 minutes she had decorated all of the "pages."

I helped her with the first page. She did the rest, "all by herself" - which was great, because I was in the kitchen doing dishes, packing lunches and preparing dinner. Perfect.

When she was finished, I helped her to put her pictures & decorative pages in the album (she did need help with this part, because it was a little difficult for her to get the pics. in the sleeve without them bending).

This project:
used fine motor skills
practiced patience
was a quiet activity
is a keepsake (and continues to occupy her as she looks at it often)
great for a rainy day

Lyla had fun and was proud of her work.

To be honest, I don't scrap book anymore. With so many online tools to create photo books, I have turned in that direction. I still think scrapping is great- if you have the time and space (because getting my stuff out and cleaning it all up was the hardest part)!

Have fun scrapping, Kiddo's!

Linking up with:

A little Tipsy

08.30.11

2011-08-30T17:41:00.003-04:00

Welcome!
Hello, and welcome to my blog!

My name is Jamie.

I am so excited about this blog post because....
I have been wanting to start a blog for a loooong time, and I am FINALLY doing it. Let me start by saying I have been 'blogging' for almost 3 years. I have a personal blog about my family- MAINLY about my daughter. Family and friends enjoy it. That's about it.

I love blogging. I wanted to start this blog because I enjoy reading others- and always thought it would be fun to have my OWN. A place to share my thoughts on parenting, my attempts at crafts and home projects and my love for photography, among other things.

Why did it take me so long to start one...? Not sure. It's kinda hard to put yourself out there- what if no one reads my blog? What if I can't think of anything to write about? What if I fail? On top of all of these scary questions- I KNOW I am horrible with computers. There are so many blogs that I love with awesome pictures and links and patterns and color - I have NO CLUE how to make a blog look CUTE!

YIKES.

BUT... at the end of the day... it's just a blog. We'll see how I do.
I'm always open for advice. Seriously. E-mail: jamieespo@hotmail.com

This is a pic. of me... with my husband and our little princess.
Love these two.

If you are a mom, enjoy photography, crafting, cooking, organizing, blah, blah, blah- and just get hooked on blogs... come back and check me out!