Designing A Life I LOVE

Designing a Book Cover I LOVE

2010-07-01T10:44:00.000-07:00

Hey! I've missed you! I've been very busy with my work, and they've kept me pretty busy with lots of things I LOVE, such as Graphic Design. I'll post more on that later, but for now, won't you tell me what you think about this particular graphic design project?

I'm new to the "literature" world. Never been an avid reader. That is, until this past Christmas when my sister got me the Twilight Series to read. Eight days later, I came out of my Twilight haze and vowed to read MORE. I've been reading LOTS of books ever since, somewhere around 40 to be exact.

Yep, I'm kinda weird like that. No, you shouldn't judge!

I have read Alyson Noel's "Immortal Series," and in doing that, somehow managed to sign up for the publisher's newsletter, in which I stumbled upon a VERY good book, by Shannon Delany called "13 to Life." I finished it in a day! Totally LOVED it. Now, she's having a contest for her fans, and it includes some graphic design.

So, I decided to give it a try!

Here's the original cover:. . . and here's MY version:
I'm not a fan of using "models" on book covers, so I tried to keep it more neutral, but did find a really cool wolf tattoo-like symbol and some fur! Then, I decided to keep the same format, since it's a series, and it would look totally COOL if they were, like, connected in a "series" kind of way, so I designed the second book, Secrets and Shadows, like this:
I like the forest-y effect, and since I don't know much about the book's content, I sort of had to guess what lies inside... Shannon, if you're reading this, I totally want to put under your name "New York Times bestselling author of the series, "13 to Life" -- so when you're ready, I'm TOTALLY doing it...!!

So what do you think?!? I think I could do a couple of book covers for REAL -- you know, like push my graphic design in that direction!! Sooo much FUN!

It may not be enough to win the competition, since the points for design are so low, but it was so much fun! I hope to WOW the author, though!!

Suburban Cottage imitates Pottery Barn

2009-11-16T21:01:00.001-08:00

As I've confessed many times on this blog, I'm a blog stalker. You guys inspire me so much! The latest inspiration comes from Annicole from Our Surburban Cottage. She looked at the $79 wreath, and knew she could do the same wreath for MUCH LESS!

She's my hero.

Please take time to check out HER version of a Pottery Barn wreath, as well as many other inspiring posts on her blog. Happy decorating!

HEY YOU GUYS!!

2009-11-13T06:27:00.000-08:00

So, that chandelier did a number on my blogging skills, huh? HAHA!! Like, I have a few good posts, then WHAMMO!! I disappear like a puff of smoke!

Well, I've been VERY busy!

Life at the arena has been one concert after another. And, with lots of events on my plate, I had time to be creatively juicy! I made and/or edited posters for great acts such as these:

I designed the Avett's poster after their website.

The David Bazan poster kinda reminds me of a young Phil Collins, for some reason...

And, this Old Crow Medicine Show poster is a combination of two of their own images. I can't take too much credit on this one...
And, good ol' Justin Townes Earle. His posters are always vintage-y fun:
I can't take credit for this poster, but just to add the opening acts and the info @ the bottom. But just wanted you to know whose been in my house lately (tee hee hee):
WHEW! Old Crow Medicine Show will be out last concert of the season, and then basketball season will take over the building. But MAN! What a ride these last few months! I've also been exploring some creativity on a few other events, such as this one:
and, I don't know if you've ever seen these little hotties up close, but this laminate was my PERSONAL fave...
Even though I've been far away from you, my dear friend, don't worry -- I'll be checking back in here and there, and I have truly enjoyed seeing what you guys have been up to! You're such a creative inspiration to me. I truly am blessed to have such creatively talented friends out here in blogland!

One of my personal favorites is this gal, Susie Harris, and her amazing tutorial on a Pottery Barn item I've had my eyes on for several months, but my pocketbook can't catch up... LOVE THIS tutorial!!! Thanks, Susie!!

Consider yourself hugged. I've so missed being here with you!

:: When Spray Paint meets an UGLY Chandelier ::

2009-08-10T09:27:00.001-07:00

Thanks to new friends out in blogland, I've found new inspiration for projects I have lying around my house. My kitchen is now painted, with a color 90% of all bloggers have an affection for, my organization skills can rival that of revenue-generating experts, and I'm starting to LOVE shopping at thrift stores and flea markets, searching for the next trash-to-treasure project. When I stumbled upon this chandelier at our local Goodwill, I nearly passed out with excitement.Look at her! She's truly a remarkable chandelier, and I'm sure there are lots of homes out there with this very chandelier in their dining rooms. I've been in the market for a chandelier, but it's hard to find what I want with very little moola in my pocket.
So when I happened across this chandelier for a mere $20, I thought to myself there might just be some potential here.
Her little "fake candle" thingys just slipped off...
Then we headed outside for a little fun. I used Rustoleum "oil-rubbed bronze" paint, and had at it!
First, we drilled a nail into the side of the kids' playground equipment. They didn't mind, they were swimming in the pool, so they let Mommy and Daddy do as they wish. For a good five minutes. It was five minutes of pure bliss. We went from BRASS to CLASS in no time!
Hello, lovely. Aren't you just darlin'!!

The spray paint took literally minutes to spray. I only used about 1/3 of the can, and the scorching Kentucky heat baked this color right onto the surface. No sanding, no prep work. Just spray-n-you're done!
Can't you see her with some cute shades, dangling from the dining room!? She's gonna be a show-stopper!
There you have it! My weekend project all wrapped up! I can't wait to get that ugly-excuse-of-a-chandelier off the wall in the dining room, and replace it with Sheila. Don't you think she looks like a Sheila!? I think that's what I'll call her.

I think I've been inhaling too many fumes this weekend. LOL! I'm naming DIY projects. I think I need to lie down.

Did you name any DIY projects over the weekend? If so, I'd love to hear about it!!

Birdcage makeover

2009-08-07T13:35:00.000-07:00

So, I have been very busy lately, seeing the kids off to school, working my tushie off at work doing wonderfully creative projects, and in my spare time I make big messes in my kitchen. Now that my wall painting is finished, I'm finding it quite intimidating coming up with new and exciting decorating ideas for my kitchen. What once worked on top of my cabinets is no longer working, and besides, I am in for something new and exciting. IS THAT SO WRONG!?

What's more, I'm wanting to spend little or no money to do it. Simply put -- I like to brag about how great my stuff looks, yet brag about how cheap it was, all in the same breath. My husband is ecstatic about this new venture I'm on as well. Well, maybe just the "little to no money" part.One of the things I can't seem to part with is this old birdcage, and I'd like to bring it back into my kitchen, only it SCREAMS 80's home decor show giveaway... know what I mean? Can this little birdhouse be brought into the 21st Century?
I'm sure gonna try!

(Now, where's that white can of spray paint?)

In less than five minutes, I was saying goodbye to the Burt Reynolds brass and hello to a newly updated Nester-type birdhouse that is beginning to grow on me.

Now, where to find a birdnest and a couple of robins eggs to put in it... Don't worry! I'm going to a craft store for that one! Geesh, I'm not THAT frugal!!

:: Turning A Tragic Lamp Into A Beauty ::

2009-07-29T17:48:00.000-07:00

If you're here from the great KIMBA's site, WELCOME! to my Lamp tutorial! I love Kimba for always having these DIY linky parties, I could just eat every one of them up!!

Not long ago, I was browsing through a local consigment shop, when I stumbled across a small, brass lamp. The size of the lamp was perfect for an under-the-kitchen-cabinet light source, and with all my blog-stalking lately, I've had an itchin' for a lamp for a long time.
The problem is I'd need a really small lamp. And finding a lamp that uses a regular bulb (no specialty bulbs) was proving to be rather difficult. I know all those ladies at the consignment store thought I'd lost my marbles, staring at this lamp and contemplating whether or not the lamp was even small enough, and I even decided against the lamp and moved along. But I ended up coming back two days later to see if she (we'll refer to her as a female lamp) was still there. And indeed, she was.
I bought the base for $1 and the lampshade for 25 cents, and decided I wouldn't be out that much money, should the whole DIY project prove hopeless.
And the lampshade? Oh. My. Gawd! Someone actually thought it would be a great idea to "spruce up" this shade with a piece of shiny ribbon-y trim and adhere that mess with . . . brace yourself. . . TWO-SIDED TAPE. I was almost embarrassed to bring it to the front of the store. Once I got that tragic gal home, I knew I was gonna need a team of experts to get this party started.Meet my team of experts. They're cheap, and come well respected by spray paint experts all over blogland. All three of these cans are just the start of my ever-growing collection of spray paint cans. Hello. I am in love with my spray paint. I decided on the Oil Rubbed Bronze can of Rust-oleum. Let the transformation begin!

STEP 1: Clean your surface. I used a damp cloth (water and a drop of dishwashing detergent) to get the lamp free of dust and residue. The lampshade needed removal of a prior DIY project gone bad, but luckily TWO-SIDED TAPE JUST PEELS RIGHT OFF. Lucky me. But more importantly, LUCKY LAMP. She already looked ten times better, just after step 1!! (Can you tell I didn't think much of her prior accessories? BLECK!!)

STEP 2: Spraypaint that ugly brass. I don't have a picture of this step, but it only took one coat to cover that brass, and I didn't even prime it or anything. This was a FUN step, because I started getting excited about the lamp. She had some great curves!

STEP 3: Trace your lampshade onto a piece of large paper. I happened to have A LOT of plain contact paper that I could use for the job. Roll the lampshade over the paper, and trace. And thanks to Kara's tutorial on HER gorgeous lamp, I knew I didn't have to be perfect in my tracing. GOOD THING. Also, when you cut your lampshade pattern, cut out 1 1/2 to 2 inches more all the way around, just to give you some extra to wrap around the shade and glue down.
STEP 4: Lay down your favorite material, and cut it. Or, if you're like me, double check your pattern to make sure the lamp didn't shift during the tracing process, and then check it again, and then stop second-guessing yourself and cut already. We have a lamp to put together, and she's gettin' impatient, for goodness' sake!!

STEP 5: Assess any imperfections. This is an extra step that was specific to my lampshade, and probably unnecessary, but for my sanity's sake, I decided to do it. I took a black sharpie, and I colored over the blue ribbon. My fear was that the blue would come a shinin' through that beautiful shade, and I didn't want to risk it.STEP 6: Fold over one edge of the fabric and iron it down. I took Kara's advice and glued it too, but I agree, it isn't necessary. Wrap the fabric around the shade, then hold it in place with a dot of glue at the top of the top and bottom of the shade. Make sure the fold goes on OVER the other end of the fabric. Glue the fold down with a long, thin strip of hot glue.

STEP 7: Take a pair of scissors, and start making 1-2 inch cuts into the fabric on the top and bottom edges of the fabric. This is the part you'll be gluing down, and it seems to behave a lot better when you cut it. Careful not to cut too close to the shade, or you'll see the cut at the top of the lampshade. Do this to the top and bottom.

STEP 8: Put the newly finished lampshade onto the newly finished lamp.Hello, Lovely.

She doesn't even look the same, does she? So hard to tell just a few hours ago, she was this ugly duckling...
And now, I just want to stare at her in amazement. Now, I feel guilty that I didn't get her on the first day. All she needed was a little cleaning, and some paint and fabric, and Voila!!
A special thanks to Kara, for giving me the tutorial I needed to see past the ugly lamp, and for $1.50 and some leftover fabric and paint, create a really great lamp! You rock, girl!

Thanks for stopping by! Please consider following my blog (linkup on the right), it really warms my heart to see so many people who are interested in my humble site. Y'all come back now, ya hear?

Adding Real Estate to Your Kitchen!

2009-07-28T06:23:00.000-07:00

Well, if the title doesn't get you, nothing will. Who doesn't want to add REAL ESTATE to their kitchen!? Kitchens today are much bigger than they were back in the day, when our grandmothers were in their small kitchens, cooking and baking all day, yet even as our kitchens have grown, we still find ourselves asking for more space.

I have contemplated this very troubling feat myself when I started taking on my kitchen this summer. I finally got around to painting the walls (Tobacco Road!!) and I'm very proud of the new kitchen. I think my family is, too, because we end up spending more time in the kitchen, an unexpected bonus that I'm currently enjoying. Who knew a can of paint could bring your whole family together like this?? In assessing the JUNK laying about the kitchen, I decided it was time to find a space for bill paying and overall paperwork in the kitchen. I decided to tackle. . .

Cue the low, haunting, dark music here. . .

THE K - I - T - C - H - E - N C - O - R - N - E - R!!!!!!!

{insert evil laugh, blood-curdling scream and spooky loud music here.}

Oh my God. Will you look at that corner!?!? Now, mind you, I have a rather large kitchen to begin with. I love my kitchen, it was the selling point of the house. The problem with MY big kitchens is that the space that isn't used as much ends up looking like the picture above. Cluttered, mismatched pieces of summer that we use, then put over there to use again later. I know that picture above looks "staged," but I'm actually embarrassed by it. I did NOTHING to move any of that. The lantern, the two mini coolers, the nail polish remover, the bottle of oil (??? Didn't know I had that!!) is aaaallll mine. They are pieces of life that get pushed into that corner that have no home of their own, so they get put in THAT corner. After a while, my rather LARGE kitchen starts to get a bit smaller. And then smaller... until that one day when I run outside in my curlers and bathrobe and slippers, wave my dish towel in the air, screaming, "I'm not gonna TAKE THIS ANYMORE!!" and decide to something about it.

And that's just what I decided to do.

Ladies, whether your space is large or small, here's how you add real estate to your kitchen:

STEP 1: CLEAN THE CRIME SCENE

I see people do this on HGTV and wonder, where in the heck do they put all of that stuff!?!? And I now know. They put it all behind the cameraman. Good Lord, how can one little corner end up with so much STUFF!? Having said that, it's best to try and start with a clean slate. This corner took me hours to clean off, because I was trying to find a NEW home for all that crap.

STEP 2: MAP OUT A PLAN OF ATTACK
'I know myself pretty well. Well enough to know if I don't go back into this project and map out some sort of organization, it won't take long before the "Mom, where does this go?" items to creep back into this innocent space. I sat down with a notepad, and wrote out the things I needed for my kitchen: a space to pay bills. A place for mail to reside. A central location in the house for charging stuff. You know, the important things in life. I wanted this corner to have purpose in our family for it to really work.

STEP 3: MY MOMMA TOLD ME - YOU'D BETTER SHOP AROUND

Once I knew what I wanted the space to do, and where I wanted it to sit in the space, all you have to do is make it happen! The best advice I can give is to shop in your own home first. Don't go CRAZY and purchase a bunch of expensive organizing bins that look cute sitting side by side. They make for a great picture on a blog, but is that REALLY functional? For me, I decided to find those items in my own home that make it easy to do what I do. The best part? It was CHEAP. I didn't spend $50 or more on some organizational supplies. I used what I had.

Take for example, the glass mug that I never drink in. I would never throw it away, because that's my Alma Mater!! I have to "represent" and put it in a prominent place in my home. Now, it holds pens I'll need to {sigh} pay those pesky bills. Also, I recently purchased that black organizing bin, because everyone has those now, and they look so functional for such an otherwise chaotic project -- charging everything.

And who DOESN'T need a picture of their favorite pooch sitting under a gorgeous, newly refinished lamp!? More on the lamp later. I spray painted that square basket black and am using it to house some blank mailing envelopes and a brand spanking new box of Crayolas. I think every gal should have one brand new box of their very own, to create with...

Don't forget to see what you might have in your own home, before ya go shopping around!

STEP 4: IMPLEMENT AND INSPIRE

Look back at your plans, and make sure you have a place for necessities. Once I realized the areas I needed now had homes (place to lay mail, envelopes, pens, stamps, charging station, etc.) I was very "inspired" to use this new space for messy paper clutter. Everything has a home now.
What you don't see in the picture above is just behind the upper left cabinet. I cleaned out that cabinet to put in it a "bill sorter" - a slotted box with each slot numbered 1 - 31 for all bills to go into. So when the bills (and other important papers) come in, they all have a home far, far away from the eyes of invited guests. Who wants to see your bills and important papers, anyway? It's very inspiring to me to have a home for all those crazy papers, and a dedicated spot to deal with paper clutter.

Now, isn't that better than that CRAZY cluttered corner?!? Let's have another look-see:

Wow - I'm so glad I designed a kitchen corner that I love so much!

How do you add real estate to your kitchen? What spaces INSPIRE you, and keep their form and function at the same time?

:: Designing a COBBLER that I Love ::

2009-07-21T06:20:00.000-07:00

All summer, I keep a pretty close eye on some favorite blogs. And I keep hearing from some of my faves their favorite desserts and recipes. I love this. I am a fan of cookbooks, recipes, and any kitchen gadgets I can get my hands on. Hey, you never know when you'll need a good tool in the kitchen. Usually I'm the tool in the kitchen, but that's another story.

What I've found very disturbing this summer is all the "easy" recipes out there. You know the ones I'm talking about -- those recipes that claim they are SIMPLE and BASIC and QUICK, when one expensive trip to the grocery and 14 ingredients later you realize this wasn't so SIMPLE, BASIC nor QUICK. I've already shared with you my easy ice cream cake recipe, and it's sinfully easy... and cheap... and such a WOW factor, I thought I'd step into the cobbler ring, and throw up my sister's recipe, just in case you're collecting 'em.

Mandy's EASY Cobbler (You'll never find anything easier, I promise!)

1 cup sugar
1 cup flour
1 cup milk
1 stick butter
1 tsp vanilla
1 large can of your favorite fruit (I've done peach, cherry and strawberry! They're ALL good!)

Preheat oven to 350, and place stick of butter in 9x13 in the oven to melt. Combine butter, sugar, flour, milk and vanilla. When butter has melted, add your fruit to the hot pan. Pour batter over the top of the fruit. Bake 25-30 minutes, or until you just can't stand it anymore.

Be sure to have bowl and spoon ready, and if you have ice cream on hand, Lawsy-Mercy!! Lock the doors, and be ready for an orgasmic experience in the kitchen!
Do you have an easy recipe? I'm all ears -- I collect them, remember? I pride myself in the "cheap and easy" category.... wait, that came out wrong... well, YOU KNOW WHAT I MEAN!!

Enjoy the recipe! More on my kitchen coming up SOON, so stay tuned!!

:: Designing a Kitchen I Love, Part 1 ::

2009-07-18T09:05:00.000-07:00

So, I've been very busy lately. I've been taking good notes of home paint colors you guys like, and there seems to be one color that gets a lot of attention. Tobacco Road paint by Duron. Sherwin Williams bought out Duron paints, so I took a trip to my local Sherwin Williams and ordered just one gallon of paint. Who knew what kind of a difference a gallon of paint would make!
Well, before I show you the "during" pictures (I'm not finished putting my kitchen back together), I thought I'd take a moment to let you peruse through my kitchen before I started.Now, what I'm about to tell you is something (1) you have probably already figured out by looking at this first shot, and (2) I'm a little embarrassed about, but have learned to focus on more important issues to be concerned about... I live in a mobile home. I love my house, and I know mobile homes have a bad reputation of being poorly built, low-income homes, but I can assure you, you can make your home beautiful, just by changing a few things, and focusing on using what you have to make your home a showpiece.

My husband and I have several friends who spent well beyond their means, and have a gorgeous house in a beautiful suburb, with one HUGE problem -- they've spent all their income just to pay for their house, and not being able to afford to actually LIVE inside their own home. We decided to go the other way -- purchase a custom home, put it on our beautiful piece of land, and furnish it to where we're comfortable, with low monthly payments to enjoy other parts of life. Sure, we're giving up having a beautiful brick house nestled in the woods, but at the time, this seemed like the best option for us.

And, honestly, I'm glad we did.

The best part of this home's layout is the kitchen. You can reach this kitchen through large doorways coming off the livingroom, or dining room (love my french doors, too!), and no matter if it's 2 or 22 guests in our home, everyone always ends up in the kitchen. The best part is if you can't make it to the kitchen, you can still be part of the conversation by being close by. The open concept makes this home so warm and welcoming.

There are, however, a few things I need to change about my home. First of all, I can no longer stand the burgundy-hunter green striped panels in the kitchen. You'll notice in the picture above that I've decided to go with Tobacco Road paint. There's actually two colors here - a lighter version of Tobacco Road (Plantation-something) above the color we chose, and Tobacco Road (the larger, darker version) on the bottom. It's hard to see, and there really isn't that much of a difference, but we noticed during the day the lighter version just looked like beige. Nothing exciting. It was how the light came through the sliding glass doors. It just wasn't what we wanted. I'm glad Sherwin Williams has those small "Color to Go" $5 paint samples to take home. We were able to make an educated decision based on what looked good in our home.

The second thing I want to change? The terribly dated, EXTREMELY AWFUL burgundy carpet in the living room, dining room, and bedrooms. I hate it. But hubby has the rains pulled, and I figure if I can convince him, one room at a time, that this is a good thing for all of us (to venture into the 21st century, that is), then he'll trust me enough to put down hardwood floors. But there is a bit of budgeting to happen here. We may need to wait until we get a tax refund in the Spring...! LOL!! I prefer to focus on the positive aspects of burgundy carpet, like you can spill an entire gallon of tropical punch on the floor, and not lose sleep over it. Just dab up, and voila! The perfect color carpet for small, rambunxious children. There, I feel all better now.

Hang in there, I'll fill you in on more Kitchen Loveliness, but for now, I must finish what I've started. More pictures later!

These are a few of my favorite things...

2009-07-15T16:24:00.000-07:00

Everyone has a few things in their home they truly love. For me, it doesn't take much (good thing, right!?) but here are a few things in my home that make me smile. Who knew adding a few flags to my favorite red berry wreath would make it festive this time of year?

With blogland's love of all things "beachy", I have put some found seashells from a Florida trip a few years ago to good use inside an apothecary jar. I have to be careful, though, because beachy here in Kentcky can look stupid, because we're nowhere NEAR a beach. There is a pond across the street, does that count? Umm... probably not, I'd wager to say.

This lamp sits on an end table in my livingroom. Is it my favorite? Why, yes, it would have to be this month, because I caught sight of her on clearance for $5. She's gorgeous, isn't she? Sleek, black, and cheap. Oh, how I love her.

A rather pricy pillow at $22, but oh has this baby been all over the livingroom! I love the black and white pattern, and it goes so well with my livingroom decor. It makes me smile whenever I glance in its direction.

This is a plaque next to my front door, that says "family is a little world created by love." I love it, and it's a beautiful thought to cross my mind as I leave for the day. Makes my attitude better when I head to work, and makes it all worthwhile, don't you thing?

Thanks for taking a stroll around my house. Oh! I forgot that in the next couple of days, I'll share a teeny tiny project I'm working on. It's not done, but I'm very excited about my kitchen! Anyways, I'll need your help, m-kay? I'm not sure how to decorate a newly painted kitchen, so stay tuned!! Especially you decorator-types!!!! How do you decorate a kitchen???

See you soon!

Why you should NEVER ask your daughter to POSE

2009-07-08T05:00:00.000-07:00

Okay. Let us make a pact, right NOW:

I, (state your name), do solemnly swear,
that I will NEVER, NEVER ask my daughter to "SMILE" or "SAY CHEEEESE!!" again. And I will try NOT to get the perfect shot of her looking into the camera, all while holding that "fake smile" ever again.
Because when I do, THIS is what is bound to happen. And for the LIFE of me, I can't get a descent picture when you're doing all those faces...
Now, let's try to STOP having so much fun, and just smile for the camera, M-kay??
Drat. My camera is off-focus. I give up.
What is the lesson I'm trying to learn in all of this??? I guess that no matter what happens in life, I just need to stop "posing" the fake moments in life, and focus on the imperfect moments in life that make me smile.

And, girlfriend, this little girl does!

:: Designing a SUMMER I Love ::

2009-07-07T16:24:00.000-07:00

Hanging a few of these on the camper to enjoy at night,

Snuggling up to this sexy hunk of a man,

Pulling our camper next to this lake,

Enjoying little moments with grandparents,

and great-grandparents,

and doing A LOT of this:

While reuniting with out-of-town family:It's been a busy week, but so enjoyable. I love summertime, and to be present in each moment, each hug, each tear, each tradition makes me yearn for summertime all year. I have been on vacation with my family, and I'll tell you more about that later, but just know I've taken my camera with me, and I want you to know that this life of mine is truly f-i-l-l-e-d with so much love.

And I couldn't be happier than this Summer.

WELCOME!!

2009-06-30T08:17:00.001-07:00

Just wanted to let you know I'll be heading over to Sandy's place to talk about reluctantly entertaining, so if you're new here, WELCOME!

Be sure to follow me on Google, I'd love to see you here more often. Stay awhile and shoot the breeze, won't cha?

:: Designing a SHOPPING EXPERIENCE I Love ::

2009-06-23T08:23:00.000-07:00

There's a buzz going around about Alice.com Alice seems to be the answer to many manufacturers woes about the failing economy, and how brand name products can survive. From what I read, it looks as if they're trying to eliminate the "middle man" such as Wal-Mart or Target, and help the consumer by ordering your name brand products at cheaper prices (right now with free shipping), all at the comfort of your own home. It even has a feature that sends you a reminder (you set the amount of time) that it's time to reorder a product. The image above comes during your free account activation, and I loved it so much, I saved the image for future use.

Has anyone used this site yet? I haven't heard positive or negative comments at all about it, but it sounds good to me. Anything to help me spend less time hunting for what I need/want, and more time at home with the family, I'm all for that! I may just have to try Alice. I think we may be in for a beautiful relationship together! I'll let you know how it goes.

In the meantime, I'd love to hear from you guys on what you think. Take a look at the site, and also the buzz from the media about the service. I really see this concept taking off, but wonder what other moms/women think about it. Talk to me!

MOVE OVER Expert Flower Growers!!

2009-06-18T16:00:00.000-07:00

I am Designing a flower garden that I love! It's truly fabulous, and I know you'll agree by salivating over my flawless pictures. Let me give you a tour:

See, I learned several years ago that there are flowers called ANNUALS, and those called PERENNIALS. (On a side note, I'm SO good, I may have misspelled them, so forgive me for just a moment while I brag about more important things than my spelling.) Ahem, where were we?

Anyways, perennials are flowers that you purchase, dig up dirt and make a place for in your garden, then **POOF!!** out they grow the next year with little to no effort. In my case, I never ONCE did ANYTHING to these flowers. Oh yeah. Not a blasted thing. This Kentucky weather has heat indexes dancing around the 3-digit mark, and these babies don't even ask for water! (Honestly, they probably get enough from this blasted humidity...)

This first flower was a gift from Mother's Day. While its rich dark pink flower is enough to swoon over, know that the entire thing was covered in these flowers before it came to live with me. Since then, all the flowers fell off, and if it weren't for that freak thunderstorm we had last week, I'm convinced this flower would be dark brown, shriveled up, and hiding in a dark corner somewhere in shame. Thank you, God, for watering my flowers! And, the only reason it looks so good was that I purposefully got ALL THREE flowers in one camera shot. Boy, am I good.

Ahh... this is one of my FAVORITE flowers, simply because my Mom gave me these, like, 10 years ago. They are day lilies, and I believe the "technical" name for them is "Something-Marlene" or something like that, which is why I love them. They share the same name as my Mom (Marlene is her name, NOT "Something"). She probably planted these, too, because if I were to touch them, they'd shrivel up faster than Wile E. Coyote lighting a match.

And, FINALLY, I've left the heartiest, most dainty flower for last! Check these babies out:Oh yes, friends! I don't have to water them, don't have to care for them one bit. I just mow over them every once in a while, then VOILA! They come back...WITH FRIENDS!
So, there you have it! Aren't you GREEN WITH ENVY over the mass amounts of flowers I'm able to produce, with little to no effort? I know, I know, there will be HUNDREDS of questions out there from all of you, asking me how I do it. Believe me when I tell you -- I don't do a dad-blasted thing. I'm just lucky, I guess.

Move over, floral experts! Amy's got a MOWER!!!

Play-Doh Craft Idea

2009-06-18T07:59:00.001-07:00

Stop. The. World.

This is the cutest thing I've ever seen. What a cute craft idea for my Sunday School kids, a personalized school or birthday party favor! This is so adorable! Melissa from A Little Loveliness, you're an inspiration.

Check out her site. She truly sees a little loveliness in everything.

Nate's CHEAP & EASY Design Tips!

2009-06-15T08:37:00.000-07:00

There isn't a person alive who doesn't know who Nate Berkus is. He's a well-known interior decorator, best known for his guest appearances and "before&after's" on Oprah's show. I am a HUGE fan of his work, and his design eye. I wish I had it! But I did realize he has a pretty basic set of design rules that are CHEAP, and EASY to follow! Here they are:

STEP 1: Display COOL Lamps.Lamps are an essential part of decorating. Ask Nester. She'll tell ya. If you find a lamp you HAVE to have, then GET IT. I've never known anyone who ever had too many. I am a huge fan of cool lamps.

STEP 2: New Wall Hangings
Consider putting up unique items on your wall. Whether it's plates, a collection of keys, or (as Nate's showing above) consider your wall to be the place to store your favorite tray.

STEP 3: Sea Life
Nate tells each of his clients to display some sort of sea life, but you can also take this a step further, and say display ANY sort of nature in each room. I recently helped a coworker transform his office, and it was missing something, so I took a glass vase and filled it 1/3 of the way with rocks. It is really beautiful, and even though ROCKS aren't and never were a LIVING thing, it's still a piece of nature that his office needed. So, take a look around your room...what part of nature have you brought in?

STEP 4: A UNIQUE CHAIR

Nate feels strongly about putting into a room a piece of the unexpected. It goes without saying that you should NEVER try to find matchy-matchy furniture, buy the whole set, and expect it to look great. The eye will always rest on that one item that "is not like the others." Maybe it's that Sesame Street song that brings that out in me...!

STEP 5: Framed Notes
Honestly, I've never framed a note in my life. But I really like the idea, and while I don't know that this is a step that HAS to be done in each room, I like where he's going with this rule. You should always put a bit of personality in each room, and if you have your grandma's old recipe for biscuits and gravy, in her handwriting, why not at least display it for all the family to enjoy?

STEP 6: INTERESTING BOOKS
I know what he says about placing interesting books around your room, but don't forget to put books that you LOVE around the room. Too many Pottery Barn books, and a few about sailing, when you obviously don't sail, and your friends will think you're into false advertsing. This decorating tip is definitely speaking to me this summer, being since I have vowed to spend less on decorating, yet love what I have. And I've got the books, sister. Oh, I've got 'em! Don't like the books you have? Wrap 'em.

STEP : Vacation Mementos
This is yet another great way to personalize your space, all the while creating little ways to subliminally luring your guests into talking about your amazing vacation (LOL) - - think back to the 70's and early 80's, when you had to sit at your parents' friends house and, with the lights low, endure their two-hour vacation slideshow without falling asleep. Wait, did I say that out loud? Anyways, seeing a really neat pair of slippers you got from your trip to Greece will give you a conversation starter, without dimming the lights and causing your guests to fall asleep. . . . ZZZZZzzzzzzzzzz...

There is a way to enjoy your home without spending a fortune. Even Nate says it. And, if Nate says it, it must be true. So GO -- find those amazing vacation mementos and old books, and grab a twig or two from the back yard, and make your house a HOME! Thanks, Nate, for some cheap and easy design tips to commit to memory!

:: An HGTV show that I LOVE! ::

2009-06-12T06:00:00.000-07:00

Have you seen HGTV's new show, The Stagers? Sigh, I'm in LOVE! I love what they do to a space, and if you get the chance to TiVo it, you must run to your TV right now and schedule it. Lots of creative decorating eye candy to be had! Just take a look at some of my faves:

If you enjoy learning all about decorating and design, and furniture placement, then "The Stagers" is the show for you. Ahh... one more show I love from HGTV!

How I fell in LOVE with a ONE DOLLAR Plate

2009-06-10T06:00:00.000-07:00

As I begin my quest for finding some cute finds at the Local Dollar Tree (Everything for $1), I have begun looking at things in a different light. Like this plate, for example. I had seen the lovely kitchen Fancy Schmancy Designs has, but one item in particular drew me in. Can you see the beautiful plate on top of her cabinets? The white plate with "No. 5" on it? How COOL! I knew I had to make one. My neighbor recently graduated from college, so I wanted to make her one of those plates. I decided I'd put their family name on it, and just play with it to see how I could muster up a tutorial, as well as finding something inexpensive, yet priceless, all at the same time.Supplies: $1 plate, something printed out on cardstock (or photo) paper, Sharpie or oil-base marker, and an Exacto knife. I ended up NOT using the pencil, but he still insisted on staying in the picture. Sheesh, pencils...

The first thing I did was wash the plate and get rid of any grime or oily residue. I went over to my computer, and typed out the family name in a nice, script font (I used Liorah) and a simple, Garamond font for the word "family," and printed them out.
I used the Exacto knife to cut out the font, leaving me with the white background paper. This served as my stencil. Once it was all cut out, I used tape to secure it to the plate.Now, I am cheating here. I had a plate that was given to me that had this marker with it that you could autograph the plate with. I just grabbed it, and used it. You can also use a Sharpie here, but if you can find one of those oil-base markers that you use to autograph plates with, you're all set. Trace away!
Do you know what I had to do to take a picture of this and hit the button with my left hand, while holding this marker with my right? It was nearly painful, let me tell you. I just wanted you to know what I sacrifice to get that perfect shot. I'm just keeping it real, people.
Almost done. I had to "guess" a bit when going around the "G", because I cut the white out. Oh well. You get the idea.
Now, don't panic here, but when you finally finish, and you tear off the stencil, what you're left with could leave you crying and screaming out the front door. Don't worry, just go back over it with your marker, and define those lines a little better, and it takes care of the jagged-looking lines. Also, I just free-handed the word "family," but you can take the time to Exacto those little letters, I just didn't want to. I have better things to do, like wash my hair or pick my nose.Once the font was done, I finished off the plate with some cute little polka dots and there you have it! I stuck it in the oven at 250 degrees for one hour (That's what the pen said to do) to set the marker onto the plate. I liked it soooo much, I decided to make one for MY family. It sure paid off to get TWO of those plates! (Try not to stare at my GORGEOUS stove... it'll blind you in all its beauty, {sigh}...!)
So, there you have it! A beautiful craft project for $1. The rest of the stuff I had on hand. Not bad, huh? I can't wait to see what else I fall in love with at the Dollar store!!

Bargains WITHOUT Yard-Sailing

2009-06-08T06:00:00.000-07:00

I have come to salivate over various delicious finds others have found this Summer, as they nibble on toast, fix their Gatorade, clear out their SUV's and prepare the GPS. Yes, Yard Sale season is well underway, and all the talented ladies out there have been scavenging through others' sale items, looking for the next "trash-to-treasure" story.

Well, I don't have time to yard sale. In fact, the only way I'm able to go yard sailing is if I find someone to watch my two kids while I go shopping. Which is next to impossible, since I lean on my Mom every week to watch them as I go to work. And, quite honestly, I'd much rather forgo the toast and wake up later on a Saturday morning, sipping coffee in my PJ's and enjoying a rather relaxing day off.

This year, I've decided to find various delectable deals at our local "Everything for $1" store. And, boy, did I find some good things this weekend! Take a look at these beautiful red placemats! Yep, $1 a piece.

I also got the square glass candleholders, the green moss (leftover from the door pocket makeover), and those gerber daisies. Yep, One Dollar.

I absolutely LOVE the Dollar Store. I can splurge in there, come home with a few nifty items, and feel totally satisfied for well under $30. Man, I'm good.

Bargains without yard sailing. And I got to sleep in, too! Yay for Saturdays!!

Kitchen Before/After ENVY!

2009-06-06T09:35:00.000-07:00

I am really envious of these kitchen before/afters. Don't worry -- I'm taking really good notes on what you're doing! I hope to give you some BEFORE pictures pretty soon... as soon as I clean up my kitchen... LOL!!

Check out these kitchen redo's:

My New Kitchen : @ Fancy Schmancy Designs

Guest Post by Mr. Lettered Cottage: @ The Lettered Cottage

Kitchen Make-Over: @ Resolved 2 Worship

Portrait of a Kitchen: @ Chatting At The Sky

Although not a makeover, I just love LOOKING at this kitchen from Champagne Chic Interiors:Hope you enjoy kitchen makeovers as much as I do! Man, I could spend HOURS looking at these pictures!! I'm in such Kitchen ENVY right now!

Bible School this week!

2009-06-04T07:18:00.000-07:00

You know, I really love my church. And I love it when we focus on the kids. A very smart friend of mine told me statistics show 80% of christians make a profession of faith by the age of 12. Can you believe that? So, it warms my heart this time of year when it's time to dust off my music skills and help with our church with vacation bible school.

It wears me out, and I'm physically and emotionally exhausted, but nonetheless, I love it. It's truly rewarding.

Exhausting, but rewarding.

Have I told you how tired I am? Just checking.

I'll post later on this week about some new friends I've made, and some (hopefully) new (to me) inexpensive decorative finds I've found! Stay tuned! For now, I'm bible schooling! I can't get this tune out of my head!

:: Designing a PANTRY that I Love ::

2009-06-02T04:00:00.000-07:00

photos courtesy Pretty Organized Palace

A few days ago, the Pretty Organized Palace had a blog entry about pantries. She showed picture, after picture, after STAGED picture that left you drooling of all the possiblities of a perfect pantry.

As I stared at these "perfect pantries," I was reminded of one TRUTH buried deep inside those pantries. . . they're not real.

THAT'S RIGHT! And, I decided to write Mrs. Pretty Organized, sister to sister, about my discovery. Somewhere in the midst of all the glitz and glamour of these pictures, we shared a truth. This is what I wrote her:

Alright, Pretty Organizer. . . it's time we talked.

First of all, with the exception of ONE of these images, none of them have items in them with a label (a box, a bag, or any brand names at all!). Simply put, REAL WOMEN DON'T LIVE HERE.

It's nice to see these pictures, but I've learned the hard way not to drool too much over beautiful images. I have learned to L O O K at them VERY carefully, and ask myself, "Does a REAL woman live here, or is this just another shelving company trying to sell me a pantry?"

Let's get mad, ladies! AND LET'S GET REAL! Our pantries are messy because it's our God-given talent to mess them up with LOTS of stuff to please and pacify our ever-growing, ever-loving families!

STAND UNITED, LADIES!

WE A R E REAL WOMEN!!

(...and, I have a messy pantry, too, and DARNED PROUD OF IT!!)

Do YOU have a REAL pantry? What makes a good pantry great? Is it the beautiful "front and face" display of organization? Or is a GOOD pantry GREAT when it's full of your favorite things (beautiful or not) to enjoy quality time with family and friends? What do YOU think makes a GOOD pantry GREAT?

School Dayzzzzz

2009-06-01T06:00:00.000-07:00

Because of severe weather we had in our area back in the winter, and because our local schools were out of school for TWO WEEKS, I have to announce that my POOR SON is STILL having to go to school.

His last day will be June 1!I don't know who I feel sorriest for -- the students, who have to go to school an extra TWO WEEKS to make up for lousy winter stormy weather, or the TEACHERS, who have to come up with a curriculum for kids who just want their summer vacation!! This is Bren's adorable teacher, Mrs. Debbie, who is another "angel from God" wonderful teacher I am so thankful for being put in my son's educational path. He's a better student, a better little boy, because of her.

Well, I surprised my little boy by picking him up from school last Friday and I took my camera along for the ride, just to snap away at some end-of-the-year school friends!Brendan showed me off like I was the President of the United States. People, if you want to know if you're special to your kids, then show up just before school lets out, so he can "introduce" you to the class. Man, was that ever an ego-booster!

They were playing "Heads Up Five Up" and the cute little girl on the stool picked my little Brendan's shoulder to tap while his head was down. He guessed wrong, but told me later in the car it was the SECOND time she'd picked him in this game.

What a stud muffin he is...!

These are the sweet faces I saw as I left Brendan's classroom. They waved goodbye as we left. I'm tellin' ya, I felt like the President of the United States.

I know Brendan will be glad when his school days are over, but I can't help but remember wonderful memories of my own school days. And now that I'm older, I really miss that moment in my life, when life was simpler. Reading, and writing, and 'rithmatic. Ahh. . . School Days!!

:: Milestones ::

2009-05-28T08:00:00.000-07:00

Another Spring is about over, and it's that time of year when we congratulate those who've accomplished amazing educational feats, and commence into the future ahead.

Around here in Western Kentucky, we like to celebrate not ONLY the college and high school graduates, but we also celebrate the little ones.And this year, it's my littlest one's turn to graduate from Preschool. And this fall, she will begin Kindergarten. Peyton is so excited! Mommy is so proud of her little girl, but she can't help but be sad that all this is happening way to fast.Just look at her! Oh, hang on... I don't have my camera set right. I still have it set on (no flash, please!) and that just isn't gonna work...here, let me try out this setting on a seemingly innocent kid in front of me...Hey, I'm only borrowing you for a minute! There! Much better! (What a head of curly hair!)

So, where were we? Ah, yes! My little girl is graduating from Preschool! Oh, this is a proud day! My little one is the cute one in front in the middle. The one with the rolled up shorts and purple hat lookin' all cute. What do you mean, 'they're all cute?' I know! Well, then, how about the girl who's "striking a pose" in the front row!? Does that do it? Why, yes it does! There you are!They performed many favorites, like "This Little Light of mine" - a class favorite, 'cause they were able to use their little flashlights! Also, He's Got the Whole World In His Hands" was the main song and the theme for this year. The t-shirts were painted, and their handprints put on them. Now, I ask you, what Mother out there wouldn't LOVE a keepsake like that!? SOOOO adorable!
Miss Peyton gets a hug from Miss Pam, an angel from God. Miss Pam was put on this earth to teach little ones about God. And God couldn't have picked a finer servant than Miss Pam. She's one of those teachers you wish would just teach your kid FOREVER, and you know she really means it when she tells all her children she's gonna miss them when they leave, and tear up with her.

I love Miss Pam.

I also LOVE that even though my sweet, loving and adorable husband works 70 hours a week, he took his lunch hour to watch his little girl. Now, mind you, I'm sure Miss Peyton was glad to see Mommy and Nana, but that Daddy. . . she just couldn't keep her eyes off him! She was so happy Daddy came. It meant so much to her, and to me. I fell in love with him all over again.

Another milestone in my life. My little girl is growing up. And life is designed, very carefully, very intentionally, one day at a time.

LOVE me some melamine!

2009-05-27T19:55:00.000-07:00

photo courtesy elsewares.com

I know I'm not alone when I tell you my love of melamine. It's like having a really great juicy secret, and when you tell someone, some giggly delight ensues.
I just snagged one of the final John Derian melamine plates (above) from Target. I had seen this plate on several blogs, and when it came in the mail, I was not disappointed with my purchase.

Yeah, that's right. I said it CAME IN THE MAIL. It's the only thing I don't like about my beautiful town. I'll live my whole life here, but would somebody get me a Target, please!?!? In the meantime, I'll be happily purchasing from my laptop, and raiding the Targets nearby (how near? Oh, about 45 minutes... {SIGH}).

But, to show my melamine love, I'd like to share some other really great melamine finds:

This hot little ticket came from Target as well (for $17.99/set of four). It's still available, and it's on SALE! Gotta love that!

Then we have this little diddy at Amazon ($24.99/set of 12). Who wouldn't love this? I can see this on one of those pretty tablescapes for an outdoor party, coupled with solid white plates sitting on top of a lime grassy-green placemat. These would make for a great girly party!

And, finally, there is these sweet little plates at Crate & Barrel. They're on the pricey side (around $6.95 a piece), but I've got my eyes on them...
Do you love melamine? I think it's such a happy addition to any tablescape, and it sooooo reminds me that it's summer!

Rescue Dog

2009-05-23T08:00:00.000-07:00

In my heart of hearts, I know that no person in their right mind would ever DREAM about dropping this beautiful baby on the side of the road, and drive away. I just know that it isn't possible that another person could look into this sweet little face and decide to abandon her. So, after countless "FOUND" flyers, an ad in the paper, and scanning for microchips, we've come to the conclusion that this little girl doesn't have a home. . . until now.

She still needs a name, though. Anyone out there have a great name for such a cute dog? We think she might have some shorthair St. Bernard in her. She's gonna be a big baby when she grows up.

I've always wanted a rescue dog. Now, we have one. I am the last of the family to fall in love with her (believe it or not! I was trying hard NOT to get attached...) so the whole family has fallen head over heals for this baby. Beasley, the schnauzer, is warming up to her, too, but he's still very protective of us. So we show him some extra love to make him feel better.

Who new this little girl would just wander into our hearts like this?

Door Pockets -- a TUTORIAL

2009-05-21T03:36:00.000-07:00

I've never done a floral tutorial. So, bear with me. It's so hard to put together great floral tutorials when they're already out there. I tried to pull some research together, so my tutorial has credibility. But as I researched, I realized there was not much out there in the art of dried floral arrangements. There was one, however, that shined above the rest.

Nesters, of course.

Having said that, I know she would shutter in the thought of my tutorial, but just in case you're low on money, but need a quick and easy arrangement for a newly painted front door, here ya go:

To start, gather your cast of characters. You'll need your door bucket, some foam, a few dried floral pieces, a neutral silk flower, some moss, and a wire cutter.
The first thing I did was grab up this door hanger. I love door pockets, and I really like this little guy, but the gold aspect did nothing for me. So, I bought a 97 cent can of spray paint, and went to town.
There, much better.

Then, I placed a piece of styrofoam in the pocket, to act as foam. Because, honestly, I forgot about getting one at the store, and this piece was leftover from opening Christmas presents, and I said to myself, "Self, you could reuse that 'damaging to the environment' piece of styrofoam and call it recycling, and be GREEN all at the same time!"

So I did.
The next thing I did was take out that grass, because I know Nester would roll over in her bed over this one, but I really liked the bear grass on my door, because driving by, you couldn't see how really bad it looked, right?

Okay, I threw away the grass.

Next, place moss over your foam, to hide it's tackiness.I just used a small bag of moss I picked up at the local "Get It For a Dollar" store.
Next, the fun begins. Start with your main flower, the one (or ones) you want to show off. I know this should've been a dried flower, but I really liked these really tiny hydrangea-looking flowers. They were $2 at the local department store, and with wire cutters, give 'em a good stem and take off all the leaves. I decided to leave the two leaves closest to the flower on these. I know they're not ideal, but the only part you would see would be bits of white, NOT all that green plastic. Just bear with me...
And, into the door pocket you go!
It starts out kinda sporadic, but we'll add fillers in between to really jazz it up. Fillers? Where are those really cool fillers? Ahh. . . THERE YOU ARE! I felt like I'd REALLY found a GOOD DEAL when I picked these up at Fred's for about $5. And, I believe I just about used every bit of it.
I sorted them out by like-items, then starting with the biggest piece (that artichoke-looking thing I just adore!), I started layering and stuffing. Oh, I also took that tacky green grass-looking stuff off the artichoke.... how strange was that!?

We're getting there! Lastly, I started to stuff the natural ting in there, because I'm a girl, and ting is a word we like to use in our tutorials when we're giving tutorials, because that's just who we are. Ting-lovers.

OOOh! I'm SOOOO excited now! Let's get it on the door and see how it looks!

Here it is before:
And, TAAAA-DAAAAAAAAHH!!! The after! Maybe if Nester drives by, she won't wreck over those white hydrangeas. But I'll bet cha she'd forgive me! Oh, how fun this $10-$15 project was! I think I just might "tutorial" again sometime!! Be brave, use what ya got, and Design a Door Pocket You Love!!

:: Designing a DOOR I Love ::

2009-05-19T05:00:00.000-07:00

So, I'm what you call a blog-hopper. There are so many great blogs out there that have inspiring home-remodeling ideas, and I have always wanted to tackle my own remodeling job. Well, all of YOU have given me confidence.

And I finally. . . FINALLY. . . have my own story to share! It's a story of a really, really plain door.

THE REALLY, REALLY PLAIN DOOR

Once upon a time, there was a door. It was a really, really plain door. The door had no character, and it's only function was to keep weather outside and really crazy kids inside.

One day, the really super-cool-totally-talented Lady of the House decided it was time to give the door a facelift. Because she was so super cool and totally talented, she got on her computer and found LOTS of ideas to spruce up the door. So, she started with these guys:

And she painted the door black. Black -- which was totally against all her friends and family's wishes. I mean, everywhere she turned she was met with adversity. Did it stop her? NO, it did not!

She painted, and painted, and she's even decided to paint the inside of the door black as well. I mean, why do onlookers have all the "black beauty" bestowed upon them, while the members of the household only enjoy it while they drive away?

And so, the front door was given new life (pictures posted soon!). And all the members of the family were so taken by "black beauty" that they praised the Lady of the House for being so super cool and totally talented. The End.

Okay, so some of this story was edited by the author. But you know, it's my story. And I'm stickin' to it.

Here's hoping maybe a bit of inspiration I've received from others just might come to you. You CAN do this!! Have a fantastic day!

:: Out Sick, Guys... ::

2009-05-14T07:37:00.000-07:00

Sorry I can't post today. I have a cold, and I'm trying to get over it before the big women's retreat. Then Peyton is graduating from Preschool, yada yada yada....

I promise I'll have LOTS to talk about next week, including a great home project I'm almost finished with!! I'm painting my front door.

Stay tuned!! I will post on MONDAY!

Mother's Day was a memorable one!

2009-05-13T13:18:00.000-07:00

Whew, what a weekend! My hubby and the kids went all out for me this year, and got me a beautiful diamond heart necklace! SEE!? Isn't it beautiful!! Hubby said the kids saw a commercial and said, "I want to get THAT for Mommy for Mothers Day", and that's all it took.

Now, where's a good BMW commercial when you need one!? {{wink}} No, of course I'm not spoiled. Whatever gave you that idea?

I also received many kisses and hugs, and Brendan got me a coupon book that he colored in school. My favorite was, "Redeem this coupon and I'll clean my room ___ times" to which he penciled in "0." I laughed my tushie off...

Miss Peyton made me a very sweet Mother's Day poem with both our handprints on them. Oh, is that Mrs. Pam ever clever! Just the cutest things she does every year with her class! Oh, how cool!!

Yes, Mother's Day is one of my favorite holidays, and I love celebrating it each year. What a wonderful holiday to celebrate being a Mom, or celebrating your own Mother. Happy Mothers Day!!

:: Designing a KITCEN that I love ::

2009-05-12T00:01:00.000-07:00

I finally got hubby talked into some bar stools for the kitchen. My camera battery is shot, but I did find them online (above).

Man, I love that man!! I absolutely love these! I've seen some blogs that had something painted on the seat, and I'm contemplating what to do to mine...

And I really can't get Layla's kitchen out of my mind! It's absolutely GORGEOUS! You need to check out her process here.

:: Inspration comes in MANY forms ::

2009-05-11T06:00:00.000-07:00

photos courtesy The Perfect Palette

In my current job, I am given the freedom to try on different hats. I answer phones, file, staple, and do other things administrative assistants do, but I also cater to talent when there is a concert in our building. I also coordinate events such as a bridal show and I have been known to help plan banquets, get-togethers, and corporate events.

When I happened to stroll by this website, I was awestruck at the coordinating colors. It's called The Perfect Palette, and it features different color combinations for different weddings, and some inspirational pictures to go along with the colors. Wow. I could just browse through Crissy's website for a long time, and this is definitely a site I want to return to when the time is right to find some color and inspiration. Thanks, Chrissy!

TODAY, I GRADUATED!

2009-05-09T10:31:00.000-07:00

Today, I become an alumni of Murray State University.

I never thought I'd see the day, but it's finally here. I have a degree in Business Administration. It took me soooo many years (I kinda got sidetracked... there was this fella, see, and then a few years later, some really cute kids came into my life) but after the struggles of seeing twenty commencements come and go in my arena, I finally get to claim the twenty first as my own.

I didn't walk today, but the pomp and circumstance was still there. I was still there, and I let the good wishes and congragulatory message seep into my soul this time. This time, it was for ME.

And, I couldn't be prouder.

Yep, it FINALLY happened. Today, I graduated!!

:: Designing an ACCIDENT I Love??? ::

2009-05-08T06:00:00.000-07:00

photos courtesy of Nesting Instincts

I'm really starting to think today about the upcoming women's retreat that my church is having. I signed up for it, hoping I could help out with decorations, and come together with neat ideas and wow others with my charm and wit.

Somehow, they seem to think it's a great idea, and together with a few friends, we're planning the party!
The theme is on how to be a "BOND GIRL." Now, I know what you're thinking. How am I ever gonna tie christian values into James Bond and perfect women? Well, it can be done. The trick is to balance the sleekness of Bond and that great music with ladies who are ready for a retreat filled with life lessons God has placed on our hearts to share.

I got inspiration from this blog by ACCIDENTALLY stumbling over Courtney's blog, Nesting Instincts. She hosted a movie party, and since her colors are black and fuscia, I was all over that one. It's sleek, and I love the black ting ting and feathers. I'm soooooo gonna imitate that great idea! I'm having trouble in my small town finding pink damask napkins, so I'm gonna improvise with other ideas like scrapbook paper and the like. Because hubby says that stuff is a sickness, and I've got it bad.

But if I can tie it into God's work, then I found a loophole, people. It's just how I roll. {{tee hee hee!!}}
The retreat is next weekend. I'll post some pictures of the lovely decorations, and I'll definitely need some feedback. Tell me if I've designed a retreat YOU love...!

Inspired by Extreme Makeover: Home Edition

2009-05-07T05:00:00.000-07:00

pictures courtesy of abc.com

I'm a NUT when it comes to TiVo-ed programs. There is a whole world of programming out there that I never knew existed. One of my favorites to TiVo is Extreme Makeover: Home Edition. That Ty -- who out there doesn't love themselves a little Ty every now and then?

Lately, I find myself scanning the hundreds, if not THOUSANDS, of little pictures they take of their homes. You can find out a lot of neat ideas on furniture placement, color, and design. I get lost in all the scrumptuous pictures they have free for display, and you find yourself virtually walking through each and every room of the beautiful homes.

Right up my alley.Hey, Ty, next time you're in the neighborhood, look me up! I've got a fixer-upper for ya (and the picture above? SOOOO not my fixer-upper!!)!

WARNING: Extremely EASY dessert recipe ahead...!!

2009-05-06T05:15:00.000-07:00

This recipe isn't for the cook who loves spending hours in her kitchen, while she works her magic using spring-form pans and little glass bowls with ingredients in it like the cooking shows do. This is for super busy Mom-type cooks, like me, who really don't have time to find twelve ingredients to make one dish. This is for you ladies out there that are tired of those so-called EASY recipes, only to find out it was all smoke-and-mirrors and that all you end up with is a disappointed dish and a sink full of dishes.

This is for you ladies that signed up to bring a "knock 'em dead" dessert for a church function, only to find out your son has a cub scout pinewood derby race that morning, your daughter has a birthday party to attend, and the only way you can make it to the church function on time is to throw an empty 9x13 pan in your car, purchase the ingredients at the store, ON YOUR WAY TO THE CHURCH FUNCTION, and put it together in the back of your Tahoe. That's right, in the back of your Tahoe, I said. Because let's face it.... that's how you roll.

Yep. This recipe's for you.

May I introduce to you, one of my all-time favorite desserts to make. This isn't my invention, just a recipe passed to me by my favorite sister-n-law, Cassie, passed to her by another "I don't have time to make anything for dessert, yet I'm extremely clever" friend.

INCREDIBLY SIMPLE ICE CREAM CAKE

1 box cheap ice cream sandwiches
1 large tub Cool Whip
1 bottle caramel topping
1 bag Heath Bar toffee bits

Cover the bottom of a 9x13 pan with ice cream sandwiches placed side by side. Sprinkle a later of toffee bits and drizzle caramel topping over ice cream sandwiches. Layer Cool Whip over top. Sprinkle another layer of toffee bits on the top, and drizzle with caramel topping as desired.

Feel free to jazz it up by adding another layer of ice cream sandwichy goodness, or get all FANCY and drizzle each slice on a plate with the caramel topping.

It's a well kept secret, so feel free to pass this deliciously juicy nugget of pure goodness to your friends. It's too good of a secret recipe not to share!!

This is also that recipe I try to keep ingredients for, just in case company happens to show up. Or again with that church function. But, be warned. If your family is ANYTHING like my family, those ice cream sandwiches will not stay in the freezer long. I'm just saying...

Oh my GOODNESS! I was featured on 4 R E!!!!!

2009-05-05T06:00:00.000-07:00

Sandy, the Reluctant Entertainer

As I'm browsing through clips of my favorite blogs, I notice Sandy has posted about a comment I left on her blog.

ARE YOU KIDDING ME She's like TOTALLY famous, and I was gushing about the confidence she gave me last week to actually HOST a party, when I'm really not an entertainer. I rarely entertain. But I wish I was more like her. Here's my story:

My hubby and I are very busy people. I know this is a real solid statement, right? I mean, isn't EVERYONE busy? Well, not counting sleep, I usually only spend about four waking hours a day in my home.

FOUR.

With a full-time job as an assistant in an arena, a family of four to track down, and lots of priorities everywhere across the board (schoolwork, which I finished up my degree LAST WEEK!!, church activities such as Sunday School, Extended Session for preschoolers, childrens choir, women's retreat, and the like...), I'm officially in OVERLOAD all the time.

And, to let you in on a little secret. . .

MY HOME SUFFERS BECAUSE OF IT.

Yep. I said it. My home isn't up to par as I wish it were. I would absolutely LOVE to spend lots of time and energy on it, when actually the honest truth is I have a tough time as it is keeping all my balls in the air.

And, I fail miserably a lot. Like, A LOT.

Because of this busy lifestyle, my hubby and I don't entertain a lot. And we have sort of settled into an existence at home where we keep the clothes on our backs washed, and even cook occasionally, and clean up the dishes, and every now and again we dust and vacuum.

But we do not, I repeat DO NOT, entertain. What if someone really noticed the way we lived?

So, we continue to live this way, and it becomes a vicious cycle. We don't entertain because the dishes are piled up in the sink. I could take care of the dishes, but then there's the laundry pile that all of a sudden showed up in the livingroom... ??? Then, there's the kids, and the hubby, and the dog, and there are those darn dishes again...

We could NEVER entertain.

Until last week.

That's right. Last week, my hubby and I RELUCTANTLY invited our new neighbors over for dinner. The meal wasn't fancy. . . just burgers and hot dogs on the grill. I fixed a side of oriental salad, and an easy dessert I'll share with you TOMORROW that would make your toes curl up in your shoes with envy. I've even put that dessert together in the back of my Tahoe heading to a church function.

But it was SOOOO worth it! It's that good, and THAT easy!

And, you know what? I even had a few dishes in the sink. That's right! When my company came over, I had vacuumed, I removed one small pile of laundry from the floor and into the washing machine (just to get it out of the way, and yeah, that's how I roll), but didn't finish those dishes before I heard the doorbell.

And I did what I never thought my little state of mind would ever let me do. I very reluctantly opened the door and invited my new neighbors over for dinner.

You know what? The funniest thing happened. My new neighbors commented on how well put together my home was. (What? Are you kidding me!?) They not only commented about it, but they KEPT commenting about it... like more than twice! I didn't understand it... I was confused. I thought at first the wife was trying to be funny... or just complimentary, just to be nice.

Almost to the point of frustration, I asked, "Why are you being so complimentary about my home? It's filthy!! Look at this horizontal surface! You can't even see it!! And the dishes!! Didn't you notice them??? And the countertop here in my kitchen! Aren't you appalled at how I LIVE!!?!"

"I DIDN'T EVEN DUST!!" I almost yelled it before I could help myself. I really like these new neighbors of mine, but I wanted to keep it real. If we were to build a lasting friendship, they needed to know how "off my rocker" I really am. I mean, there's no faking it. I'm really great about pointing out my flaws. And, I thought it would be best to really start our new friendship out right by pointing out mine, even before our "first date" was over.

You know what happened? She didn't run out the door in tears. She wasn't appalled at my home. She really and truly loved it. And, we even had the new neighbors over for dinner a "second date." Hubby and I went out with them AGAIN this past weekend (without kids! Like REAL PEOPLE do!) and we are having a ball with our new neighbors. They're truly great people and I'm so glad Sandy gave me the courage to just LET GO. Let go of all the reluctant feelings I felt about inviting people over, and focus on more important things...

Like inviting new friends over for dinner, dirty dishes and all.

It was the most rewarding thing I've done in a long time...to just let go of any inhibitions I had, and open my door. Open the door to strangers who left that same door as friends.

Thank you, Sandy the Reluctant Entertainer, and I'd love to take you up on your offer for dinner! So, how far is western Kentucky from your place? {{grin}}
Even if we never enter each other's homes, girly, I'm so glad to call you a friend. May you always inspire me and others like me who need reminding how easy it is to entertain, because perfect strangers may, just maybe, become your newest and best friends.

Designer Dayspring NEW Kitchen Line!

2009-05-04T06:48:00.000-07:00

photo courtesy of Kimba

Kimba is featuring a really great sale from Dayspring's new Life Collection, and she also has a giveaway, which is why I'm posting. Because no one loves a better giveaway than I do.

That's just how I roll, people. It's who I am.

So, in order to qualify, one would need to leave a comment on Kimba's blog, post about "her post," or twitter about it. If there is a single eyeball that has never met Kimba, now's your chance. Head over there and meet a great gal.

And, while you're at it, check out Dayspring's Life Collection line. I'd never seen it before today! But I LOVE it!

:: Designing a BEDROOM that I love ::

2009-05-01T00:01:00.000-07:00

Photo courtesy of perlora.com

When I think about the shape my bedroom is in, it makes me cringe. Laundry everywhere, clutter on every horizontal surface. And, if I'm ever brave enough, I'll show you one day.

But not yet. I'm not THAT brave. Are you KIDDING ME!? It's really creepy in there!

So. . . how do I get from CREEPY bedroom to a room I would be proud to show off? Well, by inspiration, of course!

I found these pictures from Do-Over Redesign, and they even have a whole section of before-and-after photos. I'm a sucker for before/afters, and this idea I wanted to remember for my future redo of my bedroom.

Check this out - wouldn't the Nester be proud? Hanging small curtain rods as high as possible, and putting basic dark curtains from floor to ceiling turns this ordinary bedroom into a showpiece.

Here's the before:
Not bad, right? But check out the panels in the after:

By adding something simple such as dark panels, and a piece of art above the headboard makes all the difference.

Okay. I'm almost ready to tackle the bedroom.

ALMOST...

:: A DESIGNER that I love ::

2009-04-30T08:00:00.000-07:00

When it comes to decorating, I'm all over the board. I like traditional, but not matchy-matchy. I like style but not trendy. And when it comes to designers, I love so many of them, my TiVo can barely keep up.

Neither can my husband's patience.

I thought I'd tell you about one designer that I really love. Vern Yip is well known for his simple minimalistic style, and wowing you with his flair for color and drama. I really find comfort in a lot of his work, as well as several other designers, and I'd always told my husband, "Sweetie, if HGTV ever calls us and wants us to do that 'Trading Spaces' show, I'd pick Vern to do our house..." to which he mumbles something unrecognizable and scans through the TiVo list, looking for something manly. {Sigh}, Men.....

There is a particular episode where he took a very simple boxy livingroom. . .

. . .and transformed it into a showpiece. I freaked out when I saw it. It looks so easy, so simple, but with Vern Yip flair.

He's a master at making small, simple spaces look amazing. Check him out when you get a chance. And set your TiVo to "Deserving Design" while you're hubby's out of the room. They end up mumbling about it if you're not careful!

:: Designing an INSPIRATIONAL MOMENT that I love ::

2009-04-29T07:52:00.000-07:00

Do you know who Nicole Johnson is? I was introduced to her during a Women of Faith Conference several years ago, and I have been totally in love with her work ever since. She's such an inspiration to women everywhere, and in all walks of life. From mothers, to kids, to cancer survivors, she knows how to reach into your heart, and inspire you deeply until you're overflowing with God's love.

Check out her website, here, and enjoy this quote from her:

I tried to do so many things for God that I missed being with God. But I've learned—the hard way—life isn't about keeping it all together. It's about trusting the One who can.
~Nicole Johnson

So true, Nicole, sooooo true.

:: Designing a WOMAN I love ::

2009-04-28T08:00:00.000-07:00

photo courtesy of SheaClay Pottery on Etsy

Can we talk??

I realize I'll be going in a thousand different directions here, but I will not necessarily talk about ME, personally. So, it's time for some formality and a bit of background.

Hi, nice to meet you! Can I shake your hand? A pleasure to make your acquaintance. My name is Amy, and I live in a small community in western Kentucky. My husband and I have generations of family here, so our roots run deep. I have always loved this area, and I plan on raising my young-uns here, grow old here, and living my life here. It's really an amazing life, and I'm very happy you're here, so that I can share part of my journey with you.

I work in a college town, and do graphic design work on the side. I love my life, and I love the opportunities the internet gives my creative side. I also L-O-V-E desinger blogs online! There are so many opportunities on the internet to make your live easier, and to inspire you! I hope that we will get to know each other better, and share lots of tips and secrets on designing lives that we love.

Recently, I've discovered that my taste for interior design has changed, and although I have lots of great things, my home overall needs lots of attention. I hope to take lots of pictures because (I don't know if you know this or not...) there are LOTS of interior designers out in BLOGLAND who like to give advice. . . sometimes for FREE!!! Won't that be FUN!? I really would like to make changes, but I also want to do this by spending as little as possible to accomplish all that I would like to do.

So, that's me. In a nutshell. I am so glad our paths have crossed, and I hope to bring you lots of ideas, and lots of other blogs that have ideas. Now, I'm raising my right hand and promising, "I will ALWAYS note the source of pictures, so you can find more information on other great designer blogs." Promise.

Pinky swear.

:: A Blog with great DESIGN ::

2009-04-27T08:00:00.000-07:00

Maybe I'm just the only person on the planet that has never seen (until recently) this blog. Maybe there is a reason why a decorator-lover such as myself can't wrap her brain around the fact that this particular blog has alluded me. But just in case I am the only person left on the planet that hasn't heard of Sherry and John, may I present to you, for your designing/rags-to-riches/before + afters/beautifully amazing blogging pleasure, This Young House.

Sherry and John have an amazing website, complete with tabs at the top of the page that you can click on to find all their photos of redos that they've done on their own house, as well as blogger-haven information of some clients' problem rooms they've been working on!

And their ridiculous tab on "How-To's!?" Stick a fork in me. It doesn't get any better than these tutorials. You'll spend hours clicking on all that yummy goodness. My favorite is about how to prime and paint your cabinets, since I'm getting ready to do that very thing in my own house.

Won't you come with me, while we tour their house? I'll tell you... you may want to refresh your diet coke before you sit down. . . this site is not for the casual browser. There's some serious time that needs to be spent looking at all the delicious pictures of home and room redos.

Ahh. . . I'm in HEAVEN!!

:: Designing a MOMENT that I Love ::

2009-04-24T08:00:00.000-07:00

After picking up the kids from my Mom's house this afternoon, I was reflecting on how tired and spent I was at the end of the day. I decided to find out what the kids wanted for dinner, pick up a quick bite, and head home for the day.

In the car, I casually asked them, "So, what are you feeling?"

My daughter, not realizing I was asking about dinner, says, "I'm feeling sunshine and rainbows in my heart."

...

I love that little girl. I truly love her with all my heart. And one day, I hope to grow up and be just like her.

:: Designing a PROJECT that I Love ::

2009-04-23T08:37:00.001-07:00

In May, our girls at church are getting together out by the lake for a women's retreat. There's a group of about 40 of us, and we love our God, and enjoy the time out of our busy lives to get together and have a little "girl time."

This year's theme is on how to be a "Bond Girl." I can't reveal too much about it right now, but I'll post pictures of decorations, etc. when it's done. Oh, what fun we'll have!

Since I dabble in graphic design from time to time, I created logos, posters and email blasts talking about this new retreat. I hope we have a good turnout! (Shucks -- we always do!)

I'll post more on this later, but for now, there's the image of the "theme." Cool, huh?

:: Designing a FAMILY that I love ::

2009-04-23T08:00:00.000-07:00

Having a full-time job and having limited time with my husband and two beautiful babies means the little time I have needs to be the best I can make it. I can't change the amount of time I get in a day (God knows I've tried!) so I have to face the day knowing that I want to make the time with my family memorable. I started scrapbooking in the mid-90s, and even though I TOTALLY enjoy the hobby, I don't always have the time to do it. I'd rather play with Miss Peyton in her cute "girly" room, or watch Mr. Brendan outsmart bad guys on his Batman Wii game. I guess I have to sacrifice the things I love for the things I love MORE.

The other night in Brendan's backpack, I found a proof from the school photographer with his school pictures in them. He had his jacket on the first picture, and then they took it off for the second one. So cute! But, I almost didn't recognize the little guy! He's growing up so fast. His little toddler cheeks are gone, and replaced with slimmer, more grown-up features. He's becoming a big boy now. How did that happen!? I look at him EVERY DAY. But somehow I missed seeing the new features of his face... I don't know how it happened, but time has taken my son on his own life's journey. He's becoming a man.

Okay, time. You win again.

I put down his picture, and at 9:30pm last night, I crept into his room (and ended up waking him up) and held him like a baby. I knelt down at his bed, and I scooped my arms around his shoulders, and his legs, and I just kissed and cried, kissed and cried... I couldn't believe he didn't fit into my arms anymore. He wakes up enough to begin "twigging" my hair. Twigging is a term he made up to describe the need to gently tangle his fingers deeply into my hair. I LOVE when he does this. This makes me cry harder. I must've been in there for almost a half an hour. He whispers, "Mamanini, tell me a story. . . " and I tell him a made-up story about a little boy that has a magical book that he pulls from his shelf and opens it, and goes to ________ (Bren fills this part in. It used to be Scooby Do, then Cars, and now Transformers.) and the boy gets to interact with his favorite characters. Bren loves this. It makes him feel as if he's right there. Except this time, Bumblebee wishes to go back with the boy, and I left the story with Brendan coming back home, putting the book on the shelf, and hearing a black and yellow mustang motor revving in the driveway. Brendan smiles, and goes back to sleep.

I know I'll miss these times. It's these times I want to hold onto with every bit of me. I pray God gives me the wisdom to make time for the important things, and the courage to say 'NO' to everything else.

A New Awakening...

2009-04-22T07:12:00.000-07:00

So, it dawned on me earlier this month. I really enjoy blogging. Not every day, but occasionally I like the idea of having a virtual journal to write down my thoughts, ideas, and wishes. It's very easy and convenient to keep up with such a task, and as long as I don't get winded, I really like the feeling of accomplishment I feel when I get an idea down in front of me, knowing I will have it for years to come.

Without further ado, I present to you... Designing A Life I Love. It's filled with lots of thoughts of one blog hopper who loves all the ideas and inspiration out there, and wants to keep all these ideas in ONE location... for my future reference, and my sanity! I hope this tool will come in handy for anyone who loves to enrich their life by loving their families, their friends, their homes, their faith, their designs, and their ideas.

Won't you join me? I hope to design a life I love by sharing and remembering lots of fun with you. Check back soon, and we'll begin a journey of fun and adventure together!

Let's DESIGN LIVES WE LOVE!!